" Sweet Sadie Marie "

Tide COLDWATER

2012-01-25T22:21:00.007-05:00

I started washing our laundry in cold water shortly after I got married. I'd like to take the credit... but really it was my husband's idea. For 10 years we have been washing laundry in cold. Recently, I was thrilled to learn that Tide made a liquid laundry detergent just for us .... Tide Coldwater!

Here is what is so amazing about this laundry detergent:

*It is formulated to get clothes clean when they are washed in cold water.

*By washing in cold, you conserve energy and save money on your utilities.

Washing in cold water WILL get your clothes clean! And it will save you money!

Tide Coldwater will help.... What's not to love?

Do YOU wash in cold water? Take the Tide COLDWATER Challenge with me!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

All thoughts and opinions are my own. I enjoy the campaigns I work on with She Speaks! For this blog post I received Tide Coldwater and a gift card from SheSpeaks/Tide.

Our visit to the Titanic Museum

2012-01-23T12:20:00.004-05:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I am thrilled to be a Titanic Mom Blogger. All opinions are our own.

No money has exchanged hands however, we were gifted with day passes to

the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge.

5 Things YOU Should Know About My Scale

2012-01-06T23:08:00.002-05:00

1) It once said a much smaller number.

2) Because our minds deceive us, I still think I look like I did when that number was smaller. In fact, inside my thoughts, I am *thin*.

3) My scale daily reminds me that I am not *thin*. It stares me straight in the face and lets me know there is an issue. And I have faced this battle for years. And I hate it.

4) The truth behind the scale is this..... weight has more to do with internal issues than actual eating issues. People eat to celebrate, to hide pain, and to bury the past. Food can serve as a best friend, a crutch, a temporary band aid, and your worst enemy. When really, it's just fuel for your body.

5) When I step on the scale, I remind her that I am a work in progress. I WANT to be healthy. I WANT to be a role model. I WANT to wear cute clothes. I WANT to win this battle.

Christmas Vacation

2012-01-03T21:59:00.002-05:00

The girls have been out of school almost two weeks. We have had many adventures.

Here are the highlights:

1) Sadie is learning how to get dressed all by herself. It's a blessing ..and a process. If you happen to stop by and she's half naked, this is probably why.

2) We had a great Christmas.... the girls loved the play kitchen (purchased this summer at a yard sale) and their other gifts.

3) December 26th ... Caris realizes she has 2 loose teeth side by side. The next day, they both fall out. ** This first visit from the tooth fairy ended up being costly.

4) Sadie turns 5. Boy, did we celebrate! The "Jumpy thing" at the mall and then Chuck E Cheese. She has an obsession with green race cars and flowers...so, they appeared on her cake. She was thrilled.

Happy New Year!

The Drive Home

2011-12-27T22:55:00.002-05:00

Today I ran some errands. The market and the gas station. I turned into the driveway, and put the car in park.

I drove 2.4 miles. 2.4 miles.... and I didn't remember any of it. I didn't wave at a single person, took no mental notes, and was purely on autopilot.

It all made me think ... how often do I live life this way? I think too often... but my desire is to live purposefully.

I want to live life on purpose.

I want to notice the details... dance for no reason... and remember it all. Not just here ~ in this space. I want the corners of my mind (where the cobwebs dwell) to be bursting with colorful memories and moments of life.

The Tale of a Dog

2011-12-19T20:50:00.001-05:00

The day she left..... we cried in our lasagna.

Lexi

I loved her from day one. So did the girls.

She grew on my husband.

Even he cried.

Lexi was wild. She was all puppy. She was also a biter.

We had to say goodbye.

It still stinks.

It's been a month. A long month..... and just last week, in the midst of Christmas carols and busyness... we were gifted with Tazz (a post soon to come). My girls love him... he's sweet.

Are you a dog lover?

{p.s. You know I love you. I included a picture sporting a double chin and tears.}

Wine.... it's the best gift to give!

2011-12-09T21:34:00.004-05:00

I love The California Wine Club! I know, I've posted about it before. But really, who doesn't love the gift of wine?

With Christmas right around the corner, wine is the gift that fits all sizes and personalities! Plus, with a 3 month or year long membership, it is the gift that keeps on giving!

I am excited to use this wine to toast our Christmas celebrations! And I hope the same for you!

The California Wine Club would like to gift you with a discount...so you can gift that special someone! A 10% discount will be given on every gift order you place. Just enter this promo code: sweetsadie.

******************************************************You can keep up to date with all things wine by following The California
Wine Club on Twitter @cawineclub or @boringwineguy. They can also be found on Face
Book (The California Wine Club and The Boring Wine Guy)

The California Wine Company
has gifted me with 3 months of amazing wine (Premier Club gift membership).
There was no monetary compensation for this review. My thoughts and opinions are
strictly my own.

Thank you.

2011-12-09T21:31:00.001-05:00

Thanks for your love.

Thanks for trusting me with the details... knowing I will pray.

Thanks for loving me through the mess.

Thanks.

What's Wrong With ME?

2011-12-06T21:40:00.002-05:00

November was a hard month.

I'm going to give it to you straight.

The devil worked over time on me.

A combination of events and lies from the devil held me captive.

I started questioning everything....

What am I doing? Is it all worth it? What's wrong with me? Will I make it through all of this? Should I wash my hands of it all and start over? What if ..... What if.... What if.

Have you found yourself there?

I threw myself into prayer. I got busy helping where I could ... and reading about God's love for me. I stopped comparing my life to a life I've felt robbed of. I started looking lies in the face and defending the truth.

HARD stuff. Right?

I include it here... in my space... because YOU are part of my story. We do life TOGETHER.

If you are in a tough place.... I want to pray you through it. I want to love you through it.

Email me (sweetsadiemarie@hotmail.com) or comment below.

I'll hold your hand... and remind you of God's grace.

Black Friday

2011-11-23T11:59:00.002-05:00

Caris has never been a sleeper. In fact, when she was a baby, she often held "crying parties" at 3 am. It was definitely a party... and Chris and I were crying too.

We have never really planned to shop on "Black Friday". My plan has always been to be in my cozy, warm bed... dreaming of Christmas trees and the birth of the season.

Caris' sleeping schedule has invited the early hours of Black Friday into my life..and I have taken advantage of them!

Her first Black Friday, she sounded out the alarm at 3 am.

Knowing this was a wake up call, Chris and I dressed in the dark.

We bundled up and got into the car. I was so tired I could have propped my eyelids open with toothpicks.

Chris was in the market for a hydraulic jack. I was in the market for sleep.

Caris was in the market for motion.... and as long as we kept moving she was happy.

Sears opened at 6. We bought the jack. We laughed at ourselves and at the fact that we were in desperate need of sleep. We toasted the morning (and our new hydraulic jack) with breakfast at Ihop. That cold morning will forever be etched in my memory and looking back, it makes me smile.

I still shop on Black Friday. However, I do most of it from my computer. Looking for this year's online ads? Go here.... Black Friday ads . You won't be disappointed.

Do YOU shop on Black Friday? What's the best purchase you've made?

________________________________________________

This post is sponsored by the coupon and deals experts at www.BlackFriday2011.com. Visit their site to browse the latest Black Friday Ads and find the best holiday savings at top stores, including Walmart, Lowes, and Target Black Friday 2011 deals.

Holiday Memories

2011-11-20T22:30:00.006-05:00

My favorite Christmas tradition is cutting down our Christmas tree.

As a family, we bundle up and pile into the car.

We listen to Christmas music and chat about the kind of tree we'd like to get.

We search high and low... and usually Caris finds "our tree".

Chris cuts it down, ties it to the car, and we head home to decorate.

Holiday Memories. I LOVE THEM.

It is so important to preserve these memories in photos and videos.

YesVideo is a company after my own heart. YesVideo can help transfer your old media (VHS tapes, slides, 8MM video, photos, etc) and even new media (digital, SD cards, etc) to DVDs or HD quality to Blu-Ray.

VHS tapes start to fade over time.
YesVideo is the answer! You can take your old VHS tapes and pop them in the mail to YesVideo. YesVideo can begin the transfer and then you have the ability to edit the video(s) online and order DVDs later. Isn't that amazing? So cool.

There is no better way to preserve your holiday memories and ensure that future generations will get to share in the memories too!

YesVideo would make the perfect Christmas gift for your parents and grandparents! In fact, YesVideo is gifting you with a coupon code TRANSFER15 so you can save 15% off your entire order. Only good for online orders at direct.yesvideo.com.

YesVideo is hosting a giveaway for a chance to win a $100 transfer service coupon. The contest ends soon (November 22nd) but is very easy to enter. Simply share your favorite fall photo in their Fall Photo Contest hosted on Facebook (CLICK HERE).

YesVideo will use random.org to select a winner.

YesVideo can be found on Twitter @YesVideo and FB - http://facebook.com/yesvideo

___________________________________________________________

Holiday Memories (and preserving them) are important to me. This review was a natural fit. While my opinion is my own, YesVideo provided compensation for my time.

Wine ....

2011-11-19T21:24:00.002-05:00

And the winner is ..... Sarahbell!

I *WISH* I could give wine away to all of you!

Look for my last wine giveaway in a few weeks....

_______________________________

*Sarahbell... send me an email with your contact information.

I am Thankful

2011-11-18T22:32:00.001-05:00

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, there is a lot of talk surrounding "thankfulness". I think it's mighty awesome to reflect on the goodness of God and everything He's given us.

I have often made my thankful lists...and chuckled to myself that they look different than lists I often hear. My list includes (but isn't limited to):

Thank God for NOT giving me all the things I've thought I wanted ....

because you knew better.

Thank you for humbling experiences that show me I'm not in control.

Thank you for children who are nothing like me....

Children who teach me everyday to be thankful for who I am...

And to celebrate myself as much as I celebrate them.

Thank you for a life that is often hard... it brings me to my knees.

Thank you for ALL of this.

_______________________________

*My giveaway ends tomorrow night! Be sure to enter below!

Everything is better with a glass of wine!

2011-11-14T21:13:00.004-05:00

Life has been a little crazy lately. Busy, messy, fun ... busy. It was such a surprise to hear the doorbell ring and find that my wine had arrived! I love The California Wine Club!

One of the things I love so much about this wine club is that it takes the guess-work out of buying wine. In the past, I'd stand in the wine aisle never knowing what to buy. Problem solved!

Along with the bottles of wine, every month a newsletter arrives. It describes the California winery featured and is full of information about the wines that have been sent. It describes the rich tastes of each wine, foods they would best be paired with, and so much more information!

I can't wait for next month's shipment! It will be just in time for Christmas celebrations!

The California Wine Club has a gift for you ~ A special 10% discount on every gift order you place. Just enter this promo code: sweetsadie.

They are also giving you a chance to win a one-month subscription to The California Wine Club.

Leave me a message below telling me your favorite meal to enjoy wine with! You have until 11:59 am on November 19th to enter.

******************************************************

You can keep up to date with all things wine by following The California
Wine Club on Twitter @cawineclub or @boringwineguy. They can also be found on Face
Book (The California Wine Club and The Boring Wine Guy)

The California Wine Company
has gifted me with 3 months of amazing wine (Premier Club gift membership).
There was no monetary compensation for this review. My thoughts and opinions are
strictly my own.

Good Business Advice

2011-11-10T11:20:00.001-05:00

Looking to buy a business? Here is my advice....

1) Sleep on it. Don't make any rash decisions.

2) Consult a friend, a stranger, a wise soul. Get fresh eyes to look at the deal...listen to what they say.

3) You are prepared to buy... but are you prepared to work? Look at all angles. BE READY.

4) If you build it...and they come ... are you ready? What if you work hard...and it pays off...and you end up working through the night to make this happen. Do you have a plan?

5) Get all the documents and have a professional look them over twice. You will be glad you did.

How are you investing in YOU?

2011-11-04T09:37:00.004-04:00

I always love to hear about the jobs people have had. It's a glimpse into their soul. If you asked me, here's what I would share with you....

I love being with people. LOVE it. My jobs have reflected that... even earlier on. My first job was in a restaurant ... I liked to waitress the most. In college, I babysat and worked retail. I became a teacher... and in seasons I've worked for a clown production company, a hard ware store, and as a crafter. I'm a secretary, a blogger, and most importantly a mom.

My job choices have reflected my desire to learn and grow as a person.

As I write this, I am at a crossroads. I have a desire to learn something new and start fresh.

Not abandon my day job... but add a skill to my pocket of gifts.

I am about to invest in ME. This story is just beginning.

But I want to know more about your story. How are you investing in YOU?

Picaboo!

2011-11-02T21:37:00.001-04:00

November.

It's here. Before you know it, Christmas will be here too. December always sneaks up on me and my Christmas cards are always late (if they get mailed at all).

NOT this year. All thanks to....

Picaboo!

I LOVE their 2011 Holiday Collection. How can you pick just one design? They are all so fantastic! Below you will find 3 of my favorites. I think the Modern Stripes might our family card for 2011!

Not only do I get to share this Holiday Collection with you... but Picaboo has a present for you! If you buy 25 cards, you get 25 free!

Yes, you read that right.

And.... If you buy 50, you get 50 free.

So, that's 100 cards for the price of 50!

All you have to do is use my code: GREAT-MC

{AND you have to use it by 12/1/11 at 11:59 pt.}

Go order your custom cards now! You'll thank me... and Picaboo too!

__________________________________________________

I love cards from Picaboo , so working with them was a natural fit. My opinion belongs to me, but I have been compensated (monetarily and with Christmas cards) for this post.

Sweet

2011-11-01T23:28:00.004-04:00

We had a fantastic Halloween....full of cotton candy (pink & purple)!

My favorite Halloween candy? A Butterfinger.

What's your favorite?

The Day We Pumpkined our Neighborhood

2011-10-31T22:00:00.002-04:00

Chris and I took the girls to a local farm for pumpkins. They explained that they were done selling for the season, but that we could pick/take anything we wanted.

We quickly decided that this was a fantastic opportunity to gift our neighbors, friends, and classrooms with pumpkins. We loaded my van full. I mean FULL.

God gave us an amazing day as family..... fantastic weather, the gift of free pumpkins and the opportunity to share them. It was really cool.

*****************************************************************************

If you entered the Life Game giveaway, YOU ARE A WINNER! I'll send out emails soon!

Mindbloom Life Game

2011-10-26T21:20:00.005-04:00

What if you could play a game that encouraged you to put your priorities into perspective? A game that encouraged you to feed your inner self, exercise your brain, and lose those last 10 pounds? A game that allowed you to look at pictures of your kids for inspiration while introducing you to a new website full of job opportunities that fit your career?

I found such a game.... the Mindbloom Life Game.

I appreciate many things about the Life Game. The graphics are simple & classy. At first, I was a little lost but the game provided help and it was then easy to follow. It can be played long term and is based off of your needs and desires. As your needs and desires change, so does your game.

One of my personal career goals is to be introduced to more writing positions. In the career section of this game, I found a website that has done just that. I appreciate that this more than a game but really focused on helping individuals reach their goals.

Take a minute, and learn more about the Life Game here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMW-EJIzynk

Mindbloom's Life Game is FREE! However, 5 lucky winners will receive the GrowPro package. It provides access to premium content, rewards, and more for the Life Game.

Leave a comment below sharing what area of life you'd like to grow in.

5 winners will be chosen on Sunday, October 30th.

______________________________________________

My thoughts and opinions belong to me. You could never pay me enough to own them. However, my editorial calendar allows for occasional reviews and this makes my wallet smile. Thanks to the folks at Mindbloom for inviting me to review the Life Game and for compensating me for my time.

She

2011-10-24T21:30:00.001-04:00

She has gotten a 100% on her spelling test 8 weeks in a row.

She laughs loud and long.

She's going to be cotton candy for Halloween and she looks amazingly delicious.

Last week, she taught herself to ride a bike without training wheels. All her.

She gets sad when you mention losing teeth.... she hasn't yet.

She loves glitter, monkey bars, and sugar.

She's pretty amazing.

What were we doing a year ago?

2011-10-20T23:17:00.006-04:00

One of the super cool things about having a blog is reading past enteries.

Tonight I decided to peek back through the years and share some October links.

This week, last year, Caris was desperate for something SPECIAL.

Pumpkin stuff in 2009.

I was working full time and our life was so FULL in 2008.

2007 ... Can you believe my children were this tiny? Double click on these pics...Caris is precious.

I was pregnant with Sadie in October of 2006... and shared THIS

This is my 6th year of blogging in October. What's your favorite thing to do in October?

TUESDAY? ALREADY?

2011-10-18T23:12:00.004-04:00

You must have used magic. A little hocus pocus? Magic dust? ..... My weekend disappeared and I thought it was you. {Hope your weekend was great}

It's Tuesday. Time to pick a winner for the wine giveaway..... {insert drum roll}.....

Random.org picked comment #2!

Congrats Vicki! I'll send an email to get all your details.

Thanks for entering.

There is more fabulous wine to be given away.

I just know you'll win next month!

The Gift of Wine ... just for you!

2011-10-13T23:39:00.008-04:00

Thank you for the incredibly kind words and love that you showered upon me yesterday. This community means the world to me and not for one second do I take your kindness for granted. Thank you again.

Today, I have a gift for you.... a WINE giveaway! I was thrilled to be approached with a wine review/giveaway from The California Wine Club. Not only did they want to give wine away here at Sweet Sadie Marie, but they also wanted to gift me with wine for 3 months! How could I say no?

When the package arrived in the mail, I was so excited. Even as an adult, I am thrilled to get mail! As I opened the package, I noticed that great care had been taken in the packing. The wine we received, a Chardonnay and Zinfandel, was well packed and ready to be chilled.

Both of the wines sent to us were crisp and delicious! So, after the girls went to sleep, we poured a glass and enjoyed our view of the mountains! I can't wait to see what next month's delivery will bring!

I'd love to send a month of wine your way. Leave a comment below (include your favorite kind of wine) and a winner will be randomly selected Tuesday, October 18th.

The California Wine Club would also like to give you 10% off your order when you purchase a gift. Simply use the code: sweetsadie. It's that simple!

*********************************************************************
You can keep up to date with all things wine by following The California Wine Club on Twitter @cawineclub or @boringwineguy. They can also be found on Face Book (The California Wine Club and The Boring Wine Guy)

The California Wine Company has gifted me with 3 months of amazing wine (Premier Club gift membership). There was no monetary compensation for this review. My thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.

I need wisdom... and a hug

2011-10-12T22:14:00.000-04:00

This morning my girls spent a few hours with my mom and Bob (my step dad). Sadie, playing in the yard, needed help and called for Bob. Bob playfully asked, "What do you need my help for?"

Sadie, in a sad voice, responded, "Because I can't walk like my sister."

I thought I had more time.

Time to make the truth less painful.

Time to figure out all the answers... to protect her and her heart.

We have loved Sadie well.

I want to love her so well that she understands that a person's value

has nothing to do with their abilities.

We want to love her so well that she sees Jesus in us and never doubts that she was made by a loving Creator who never makes mistakes.

I'm praying for wisdom. I need it.

Spare a hug next time we're together? I need that too.

Reading Material

2011-10-10T22:08:00.003-04:00

Our girls love to play together. A few nights ago, as Caris was "reading" to Sadie, I heard her say, "God was an incredible man. He was born in 1986. He made Adam and Eve and He even made the Indians."

I'm so thrilled they have good reading material!

Would you like cash back?

2011-10-05T07:37:00.000-04:00

I love when my girls play together. Their time is filled with really cool conversation that their mom can't get enough of .... well, cool conversation or disagreements. I digress.

A few nights ago, during play, I heard Caris ask, "Would you like cash back?" My mind began to swim... when had she last heard those words? Does she know what it means? Do Chris and I talk/teach about money enough?

Our family follows the advice of Dave Ramsey the best that we can. We have student loan debt that we are paying off the best we can... and a few other debts we've occurred over the year when my mom and step dad came to be with us. We work very hard to be good stewards and to be wise with what God has given us.

Money is personal. Money is a tool. Money can be sticky to talk about. However, I think it's never too early to start teaching kids about money. Teaching them how to save, when/where to give, and that it's okay to spend it.

How do you teach your kids about money? We are still forming a plan....

Nice

2011-09-28T21:38:00.003-04:00

So, my mom has always said, "..... And Megan ... well, she's nice."

Okay, maybe that's not exactly how she said it.... but it's what I heard.

I know she meant it in the nicest possible way.

I used to think it meant this: "She's not the prettiest, the smartest or the most likely to make

$100, 000 .... but she's nice."

It was my consolation prize.

When really, that was the definition my insecurities gave the word "nice".

So, fast forward. I'm 33. I've met a lot of "nice" people who turned out to be poison.

You know..."Nice" with an agenda.

And I began to appreciate that while I struggle with many, many things ....

I am sincerely nice.

Hug yourself with words.... what are you? Tell me.....

MOVE

2011-09-26T20:52:00.000-04:00

MOVE from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

A morning in New York City

2011-09-24T10:43:00.003-04:00

Boy, has our life been full. Just like yours I'm sure. The past few days has found me in NYC.

I have been thrilled to be with my sister ... and to be soaking in the city. What you might not know about me is that I LOVE CITIES. That sounds goofy but it's how I am wired. I love the sites, smells and sounds. They aren't necessary all good..but they mean you're in the city.

I'm also attending She Streams. It's social media + branding+ vlogging + pod casts and so much more. I'm learning a ton ...there are some really smart women who are showering me with goodness and wisdom. It rocks.

SO, what are you up to?

Puppy LOVE

2011-09-13T21:15:00.004-04:00

Monday

2011-09-12T06:30:00.001-04:00

What Our School Could Do with $25,000

2011-09-08T19:16:00.002-04:00

This year, I saw both of my girls off to school. Thankfully it's the same school and we are so pleased to be school parents!

As schools continue to have their budgets cut, the "extras" in education have gone by the way side. When I think of putting the extras back into education, here is what comes to mind:

1) Reading books to stack every class library

2) Comfy reading corners with bean bag chairs and cool lighting

3) Art supplies.. lots and lots of them.

4) Music for every grade and instruments for kids who want to play them.

5) Computers

6) Paid lunch monitors so that teachers could dine in quiet

These are some of my plans. Just this week I entered our elementary school into

Macy's Classroom Makeover Sweepstakes.

You can enter your school too!

Here's how you do it:
1.Head to www.facebook.com/macys and like the page
2.Click the Classroom Makeover Sweeps tab
3.Fill out the entry form & submit
4.Share the contest via Facebook and Twitter

You have until September 15th to enter! It won't take long and it can make a huge impact!

Enter today!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Disclosure: All of my opinions are my own. I think Macy's is amazing for giving one school this fantastic gift! SheSpeaks is compensating me for my time as I spread the word about Macy's Classroom Makeover Sweepsatakes.

A New Chapter in Life

2011-09-07T11:13:00.004-04:00

Last week, Sadie fell in love with school. Our summer days of outdoor play, vacations, and trips to the library were quickly forgotten.

On her first day, I arrived early to pick her up. My mind was flooded with questions... Did she have fun ? Much trouble with her walker on the playground ? Did she eat her lunch? Did she miss us terribly?

And then I saw her. I smiled. Our eyes caught ... and almost instantly she began to cry. I ran to her. "Oh, Sadie, what's wrong? Are you okay?" With tears spilling over her eye lids, she responded, "No go home."

Last week, Sadie fell in love with school. So much so, she didn't even want to come home.

Just like I remembered ?

2011-09-03T20:52:00.004-04:00

Sometimes I feel the need to walk down memory lane. Recently, while walking down the peanut butter aisle, I came accross something I loved as a kid. So, I indulged.

It wasn't as grand as I had remembered.... but then again, most things aren't. However, as I ate, I smiled. Glad that I was able to savor a piece of my youth.

The best part?

There's still some in the fridge and I'd love to have you over for lunch.

What isn't the same as your childhood memory? I'd love to hear.

Back to School with New Shoes

2011-08-31T21:48:00.002-04:00

My girls love to go "back to school" shopping. They are a lot like their mother. I always looked forward to going back to school.... because it meant a trip to the outlet mall.

Caris and Sadie are no different. Their favorite item to shop for? SHOES! Who can blame them? When I was invited to team up with Crocs and celebrate their back to school line, I couldn't resist. And boy were my girls thrilled!

Here's what I love about the Crocs Back to School kids' line :

1) They are school approved (close-toed and close-heeled)

2) They are super comfy

3) There are 13 styles for boys and girls (from K-8)

4) They are so adorable and appropriate for school and play!

I am so excited for you to see these shoes. Head over to Crocs and pick out your favorite designs! Your kids will thank you. While you're there... you might want to register for that trip to San Diego (no purchase necessary). I would love for one of my readers to win this. If you win, will you send me a post card?

Crocs also put this totally fun video together for you.... and there is an added bonus! Not only can you click on your favorite shoes and be magically taken to the Crocs official site (and the details about your favorite shoes) but there is also a hidden "Easter Egg". As you watch the video, try to find it! The "Easter Egg" looks like this....

Find it, click on it, and be amazed at this added bonus!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thank you to Crocs for sponsoring this blog post. Please click here to learn more about Crocs’ new Back to School line. I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective. All opinions expressed here are my own.

I've waited 10 years

2011-08-26T22:14:00.006-04:00

I've been getting no sleep. I've been less than my usual self.

It's all been worth it. I've waited 10 years for my husband to say YES.

Lexi is 7 weeks old .... and ALL puppy. She's awesome.

Send caffeine, chew toys and a nap.

No Niche? No Problem. Tips to Take Your Blog to the Top

2011-08-06T00:00:00.008-04:00

Looking for ways to take your blog to the top? Ways to sustain your awesomeness over time? Here are five tips that have helped me and I know they can help you too.

1) Plan your posts. Two of my favorite blogging tools are my notebook and blog calendar. My notebook contains my blog ideas, personal dreams, and other "stuff" that often make their way into posts. My calendar is where I plan out the upcoming weeks/months of my posts. I have found that I post regularly if I put it on the calendar. A notebook and calendar will keep you organized for long term success.

2) Participate in a meme (a weekly blog party). Just because you aren't a "niche" blog doesn't mean you can't write about your varying interests. Participating in memes are a great way to share a recent recipe, a decorating makeover, or a picture you adore. A meme post adds a weekly blog post to your calendar, advertises your blog to new readership possibilities, and introduces you to a host of new great blogs to read.

3) Set a new goal. In my idea notebook, I have a goal section. This year one of my goals is to take my picture taking ability to the next level. So, I am taking an online tutorial and practicing my new skills. I am also working on a new blog design. These were two of my goals for this year. What are your goals for this year? I challenge you to set a few...it's not too late.

4) Numbers don't equal success. Feel trapped by your blog statistics? Are you a slave to your Klout score? Obsessed with your page rank? Take a break from the craziness. Remember why you started blogging. Take breaks as you need them.... scheduled posts will enable you to do this!

5) Shake it up. Try something new. Guest posts, vlogs, creating a meme ... these are a few ideas to shake things up and encourage you to step outside your comfort zone. Don't forget... sometimes power comes in numbers. Dream up something grand with a fellow blogger and get to work!

No niche? No problem. You've got the tools you need to sustain success.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This post is part of the BlogHop Blog Conference at Home. To see the full agenda of learning sessions visit Blog Conference Newbie.

http://blogconferencenewbie.com/blog-education/expert-advice/bloghop-blog-conference-at-home

What do your words really say?

2011-07-30T09:32:00.002-04:00

If you call my friend Linda's house, and she happens to be out, you will hear this recording:

"It's a beautiful day in North Carolina. Leave us a message."

Linda makes me WANT to leave a message.

It's in her tone... it's in the simplicity of her words... it's who she is.

I've been challenging myself to think about what my words really say and to make sure they are authentic and truthful.

What do your words really say?

2011-07-27T00:22:00.001-04:00

While flying home from vacation, I started to think about the flight attendants words.

Here's how it played out..

Flight Attendant: "Should the cabin lose pressure, a mask will drop from the over head compartment. Please, place your mask on first ... then assist those around you. "

What I heard her say:

"How can you take care of someone else if you aren't taking care of yourself?"

Parenting is really hard. It's even harder when we don't take the time to put ourselves in time - out. We all need time away from our kids. Time to breathe, converse, and dream. Our kids need us.... but they need us at our best.

I am best when I take a time-outs. My time-outs include (but are not limited to): Dinner with friends, dates with my husband, margaritas, craft nights, Bible study, and car rides with really loud "mommy music."

What do your time-outs include?

A trip around the world....

2011-07-23T22:16:00.002-04:00

Okay, Okay. Not really around the world. But kind of?

We left our cozy home in the mountains (North Carolina) ... and traveled by plane to see the wonders of Oregon and Washington.

We spent two weeks soaking up mountains, camping at the coast, and hanging out at the Portland Zoo ... but the real wonder was the company we kept.

We celebrated 30 years of marriage for Chris' parents... and it was really awesome to be with them. {We surprised them .. they had no idea we were coming}

We laughed a lot, ate great food, and hugged the necks of many friends.

Most of all... we got to really connect with Chris' siblings.... and cousins. We've missed them.

It was like going home.

We are counting down the days until we are there again.... 515!

The ice cream man knows our weakness

2011-07-11T09:00:00.002-04:00

I love summer. LOVE it.

My kids love the ice cream man.

How is it that the ice cream man knows exactly *when* to drive by?

4:35 .... Monday through Friday ... and he slows to a crawl in front of my house.

My ice cream of choice.... Rocket Pops (red, white and blue deliciousness). My oldest loves anything with a bubble gum eye. My little one likes fudgesicles.

Does the ice cream man have your number? What's your favorite?

Don't ALL kids have special needs?

2011-07-08T01:59:00.003-04:00

I have 2 children. BOTH of them have special needs. Sure, one of them seems to be more defined by her "special needs" yet we work hard to meet the needs of our girls.

Here's where the misconception comes into play. Often, I receive comments about the challenges I must face having a child with "special needs". I do my best to share that having a child with "special needs" does not mean she is more challenging or harder to parent than my "normal" child. We parent the same... the intensity is just directed differently. Sadie, having "special needs", is actually much more predictable and often more compliant than Caris (my "normal" child). She just is. However, there are other challenges (developmental delays and mobility issues) that we face with Sadie everyday.

Here's the kicker. The needs of my children are always changing. The needs of your children are always changing.

Parenting is hard work.

Kids are anything but normal.

Every child has special needs.

Reading into it ....

2011-06-30T15:11:00.003-04:00

I didn't wow anyone with my reading skills. It was hard for me. Really hard. I remember wishing I knew the secret and being so frustrated that it all turned to apathy. Why care?

Later, too late according to some, it clicked. And I *liked* reading ...but I didn't *love* it. In 5th grade, my mom enticed me by bringing home a book from the Baby Sitter's Club series. I was hooked. I read them ALL. Cover to cover... and then over again.

I'm a reader..... not obsessive but comfortable and as much as life affords. I've thought often about my children reading. They see us read and everyday we read with them. With Kindergarten, came a year of phonetics and reading groups. Caris is a reader.

She reads slowly... with concern... calling out the words she knows and working hard to sound out the new ones. When she tires, I take over. I can see it in her face when she's ready to try again... she's enamored with words and the journey they take her on. I am too.

Share a reading memory or a current book you're enjoying.

Can't wait to hear....

Behind the Scenes of Social Media

2011-06-28T23:21:00.000-04:00

Center Stage.

The mic is all yours.

People come to read YOUR words.

It's about YOU. YOUR THOUGHTS. YOUR LIFE.

YOU. YOU. YOU.

I recently received an email from someone *envious* of my *glamorous, bloggy life. * And I felt called to clear the air and show the dust bunnies.

I am more aware than ever that this life isn't about me.... although this space gives a glimpse into my life. I am also aware of the truths behind blogging, tweeting, and social media platforms. We all want a microphone. We all desire to be heard. We all take advantage of our platforms. And often the pictures shared don't reveal the whole truth.... the ugly truth. We are all guilty.

Thank you for trusting me.

Thank you for reading these words.

Thank you for allowing me to clear the air.

Here's the real deal ....

My house is often messy.

I make Macaroni and Cheese out of a box.

My checkbook is empty.

I loose my temper sometimes.

YET...

My life is lovely. And for 6 years I've shared my stories here.

The great... the good ...and sometimes the ugly.

*

I'm glad to walk this road with you.

Happy Father's Day! An interview ....

2011-06-19T08:52:00.002-04:00

Here's what Caris had to say about her dad.....

What's his name? Chris

Does he have a nickname? Dad

How old is he? 33

What's his favorite food? Sour Patch Kids

What does he like to do? Work

Where does he work? Church

What is your favorite thing about your dad? We love him.

Why? Because he loves us.

What do you like to do with him? do puzzles, play games, play outside... and that's it.

Tell me something silly about your dad? He's crazy.

What did dad like to do when he was little? I guess he liked to play.

Anything you want to say to dad? Happy Father's Day! We, we, we love you!

Summer is before us ....

2011-06-14T20:08:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow she starts summer camp. Before we know it, summer will end and first grade will be here. Are we ready for all of this? Can we go back and start over?

When I think of my girls growing up, it's a mix of emotions. I'm so glad they are older and we can enjoy the big girl stuff .... playing games, learning to read, having meaningful conversations, etc. However, I'm also a little sad to think that they are growing up.... because I've loved them being little.

Summer is before us.....

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

2011-06-03T16:42:00.002-04:00

Do pirates eat chicken dinners?

I bet Heather does!

Congrats, Heather. Random.org picked #10... and that was you my friend!

Thanks everyone for entering!

More giveaways to come.

Have a fabulous Friday night.

p.s. We ARE actually having chicken for dinner. What are you having?

It's all in His plan....

2011-06-01T23:14:00.003-04:00

I've always been a planner. I write, plan, doodle, and doodle.

Even trips to the dentist.

It's so neat to look back on how God has blessed me .... the friends He has sent into my life ... and the journeys He's made possible. Really... it's all about Him and His goodness.

We are dreaming about our summer and the events about to take place. I've been praying that God will help me to be a good steward of all He has in store....and I can't wait to see the blessings unfold.

Share something you're planning....

{** Don't forget to enter the Pirates Contest below. A winner will be picked Friday**}

Pirates of the Caribbean Giveaway

2011-05-31T20:45:00.003-04:00

Last week, Disney sent me to see the preview of

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.

And, as usual, Jack Sparrow didn't disappoint. {I've got a thing for pirates.}

The movie was great fun ... and if you haven't seen it, make plans to this weekend.

Disney didn't stop there. They wanted to gift you as well.

Up for grabs is a Pirates Prize pack!

Here's what it includes:

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES T-shirt
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES bandana in black
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES temporary tattoo (2 per winner)

How fabulous is that... right?

All you have to do is leave a comment below.

Share some Pirate love.... or any love at all.

Contest closes Thursday, June 2nd at 11:59 pm.

A winner will be chosen (at random) Friday, June 3rd.

Hi

2011-05-30T17:28:00.003-04:00

I've thought of 954 things to tell you.

But somehow they never made it to the blog.

I'd imagine you are just as busy as we are.

Sadie's stomach continues to heal... but it seems at a snail's pace. It is still an open wound and very sore to the touch.

School is wrapping up for Caris.... Kindergarten graduation is next week and I can't believe it's gone by so fast.

I'm really excited that summer is here. I have art project ideas, day trips, and all kinds of fun in store. It's the little things that make summer days so much fun!

Even bigger than my summer list is my blog list.

I have all kinds of awesome to share with you.. and I'll be back tomorrow with a giveaway!

Until then, what have you been up to?

Who really am I ?

2011-05-18T20:36:00.005-04:00

For 15 years, I've wanted "nails". I always put off trying them. I think I convinced myself that they weren't "me" ..... but what does that REALLY mean?

Does it mean I'm not who I think I am?

Does it mean others see me as something I'm not?

Does it mean I really am the type of person who should have "nails" but I've been putting up a front all these years?

All this questioning will surely make one eat a pan of brownies. I threw the questions out the window and decided and to try "nails".

I loved them ... but not really.

They were beautiful .... but that didn't matter when I couldn't put Sadie's leg braces on. I also couldn't work on my chalkboards or deep clean like I like to. "Nails" got in the way.

So .... who really am I? Not defined by what I wear ... and smart enough to know that "functionality" is huge in my life.

9 Tips for sleeping in a hotel with small children

2011-05-15T08:40:00.004-04:00

1) Let them play. Remember when your parents used to tell you, "They are going to throw us out..." ? Totally not going to happen (just don't let the use a megaphone).

2) Let them jump.

3) Sugar cereal for breakfast.... yes, please.

4) Swimming in the hotel bathroom ? Absolutely. The pool was closed.

5) Adult drinks ... A must. (The hotel sink is the perfect ice chest)

6) Rest with the little ones. Just don't fall asleep. This could wreck #5.

7)Let them run.

8) Random phone calls never hurt anyone (just unplug the phone first).

9) More jumping. It's good for the soul.

These pictures were captured during an overnight "get away" we took. Our kids had a blast.

** Thanks for the emails and comments about Sadie's stomach. The wound is healing from the "inside out" and it's healing slowly. We are starting to see some progress... and we thank you for your prayers. **

Believing He can do all things.

2011-05-07T14:37:00.004-04:00

We are home. I wish I could tell you Sadie is healed ... bouncing off the walls ... and living life as normal. Healing is slow and questionable. We head back to the surgeon on Monday.... hoping to stay home through the weekend. Nothing urgent... we've just traveled this road before.

We believe God can do all things... and we continue to pray for healing. Thanks for all of your prayers and thoughts. They are appreciated.

Friends

2011-05-04T22:27:00.011-04:00

"How can a sister be a friend?" said Gloria.

"You'll see," said Frances.

"For frogs and ball and dolls?"

"Yes," said Frances.

"And will you show me how to print my name?" said Gloria.

"Yes," said Frances.

"Then you will be my best friend," said Gloria.

"Will it just be today, or longer?"

"Longer," said Frances. *

________________________________________

They sit close. They laugh. They play.

Even in times of surgery.

I'm so glad my girls are friends.

*Best Friends for Frances By: R. Hoban

2011-05-02T23:11:00.004-04:00

I can see the Harris Teeter parking lot from her window. Shoppers come and go. The parking lot gets the busiest around 5 pm. Each car carrying a life full of stories. Hurried moms picking up dinner items that were left behind. Older couples venturing out together for produce. A practice lesson in parking for the 16 year old driver's ed. student.

As I watch, I dream about who they are, where they will go next and what they will take with them. I snap out of my gaze with the abrupt sound of the IV machine. I page the nurse for help.

I feel like our lives have been "on hold" for forever. More than that, my poor Sadie has been in and out of minor "procedures" since April 22nd . All over a "simple" g-tube removal that turned out to be much more. We hope the final surgery will take place tomorrow.

As we sit in this medical fiasco, I can't help but long for my own grocery shopping days. Days where taking crying, crabby kids to the grocery store ALSO meant I was taking healthy, crying, crabby kids to the grocery store. I hope those days will be back before I know it ... and more than anything I hope I embrace it. It sure beats watching it out the window.

6

2011-04-27T13:21:00.007-04:00

Last week she turned 6.

I know, right?

BIG.

I asked her to sleep with a brick on her head.

She didn't listen.

Then she started reading.

I begged her to stop.

Soon, teeth will start falling out of her head.

I almost can't take it......

But then .. every once in awhile,

she climbs into my lap looking for love.

I cling to these moments ... taking mental snapshots

... knowing they will end too soon.

She turned 6.

Somebody has to say it

2011-04-19T23:48:00.002-04:00

Hi....It's me. And I just have to say this. Somebody has to say it.

It's hard to make friends.

Especially when you are an adult.

What's up with that? Why is it so hard?

My guess is this. As adults, we spend time focused on our families, finances, and life. The responsibilities of life really do come first. In earlier days, I only worried about me. I had extra time and love to give. And I still do ... it's just different. Now I have to check the calendars and needs of 3 other people ... not just my own.

As I walk through life, I long for strong friendships. A few friends.... that I can walk through life with. Friends that come over for a birthday party and when things are in turmoil. And it's real. And it's fun. And sometimes it's painful ..... because it's life after all.

These are my thoughts. It gets lonely in my shoes. I'm sure it gets lonely in your's too.

You're not alone. It's hard to make friends.

Easter Crafts for small ones

2011-04-14T06:35:00.003-04:00

My girls LOVE making things. So, I collected a few ideas from the corners of my brain, started saving egg shells, and a few days later we were ready to create!

What we made:

1) Egg shell crosses {on torn paper hills.... tearing paper is great for fine motor skills}

2) Painted Easter eggs { large paper eggs, crayon, watercolors}

3) Eggs in the grass {watercolors, Easter grass}

There are many choices for supplies, but I think the best ones come right from the recyling box and the art supply box!

It's all fun and games until ....

2011-04-07T14:20:00.003-04:00

Bed rest, with a broke leg, is no fun........ even when you're "Polly".

She builds again

2011-03-31T22:19:00.004-04:00

She stacks one at a time.

Carefully.

She observes.

She waits.

She stacks the next.

Eventually, the tower tips.

They all fall.

She builds again.

She stacks one at a time.

She finds joy in the process ... not necessarily the result.

Do you find joy in the process .... even if the result is not as you had hoped?

I'm still learning.

In my skin

2011-03-24T22:46:00.003-04:00

I like being me.

In fact, I'm pretty comfortable in my own skin.

And I know myself well.

I know what works.

And I know when I'm faking it.

Faking it stresses me out.

I want to be....
crafting with my kids, playing outside,
capturing life on film,

reading, decorating, and uncluttering.
And I want to have time to write about it.

So, my dear friends.... my Etsy shop is closing.

For now. Not forever.

I'm limiting my local sales... I need time to breathe.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We have so much life to live.

Precipitation

2011-03-21T11:06:00.004-04:00

She practiced. A LOT.

She knew how to spell it.

She could rattle off the definition like it was her middle name.

"Precipitation ~ A deposit on the earth of mist, rain, sleet, or snow."

She was ready.

I was the one who was reserved.

Why does she have to get big?

She rocked it.

I knew she would.

She introduced herself, said her piece, and then concluded with

"Thank you"

*****

I clapped, smiled, hugged.

She rolled her eyes. And skipped back to class.

She's my girl.

HOTEL

2011-03-15T22:09:00.003-04:00

Sadie is hotel crazy.

She's been sleeping with her bathing suit.

Convinced .....

Convinced that at any moment we will pack up and sleep in a hotel.

We will swim in a pool.

We will "play" there.

We will jump on hotel beds.

And to be honest.... expect pictures in the near future.

Even I melt at these heart felt requests.

Let's Make a Deal

2011-03-08T06:31:00.005-05:00

The other day, as life busily happened, I thought of having lunch with a friend I haven't seen in years.

As my thoughts progressed, I pictured a table full of people that make my life wonderful.

Friends, old and new, all together.

I poured the lemonade.

The table was beautifully set... very "crafty" {very me}.

And you were there.

We laughed into the night.

I carried sleeping children to their beds.

And I couldn't stop smiling .... thinking of the amazing people in my life.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Let's make a deal.

Let's sit at eachother's table more often.

I can't get enough of you.

Megalicious

2011-03-03T08:25:00.002-05:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Names tell a story.

And it's funny how a person grows into their name...

or even

how they perfectly match the power of their name.

My cousin Matt calls me "Megalicious".

Perhaps it's his version of the name "Megan" being matched with my soul?

Perhaps it's just to make me smile?

Either way, it tells a story.

A story of our friendship. A story of cousins. A story of life.

My friend Melissa inspired this post.

We all have stories to share.

Share one with me below...

Adventures in blogging

2011-03-02T13:05:00.002-05:00

I am super blessed.

2 blog conferences in 30 days.

Lots of fun. Lots of work {to make them possible}.

I'm back.

I learned. I laughed. I connected.

Now, I'm off to clean my house.

I have a date with your blog tomorrow.

I have lots of reading to catch up on.....

As always, thanks for reading.

Some great posts are on the way!

Because we were friends

2011-02-21T11:39:00.003-05:00

I met Chris when I was 19 years old. Sure, we went to college together....

But our greatest bond was Disney Land passes.

We'd go and ride Space Mountain for hours.

All because we were friends.

When my boyfriend would come to visit, he would stay with Chris.

They became friends.

Chris dated my roomate.

Both relationships ended.

We still talked everyday.

In August, we will toast 9 years of marriage.

It's been a wild ride.... and it's gone by so quickly!

And to think... this all started 14 years ago....

Because we were friends.

Tweeting with God .....

2011-02-18T06:28:00.003-05:00

Cintia is a great friend of mine who recently launched her first ebook:

Tweeting with God.

I am so excited she agreed to guest post! Be sure to visit her blog and pick up an ebook!

Here's Cintia ........

Motherhood is a sublime stage of life. You learn to juggle all your previous responsibilities with new ones. You discover that your sleeping patterns change and so does your prayer life, for a season. While you are caring for little ones, remember the Good Shepherd feeds you and gently leads you to good pastures. It’s up to you to stay in touch with God through prayer. Tweeting with God is a way to do just that. Saying short, focused prayers throughout the day will bring fellowship, answers and peace, all while setting a good example to your children. God is just a tweet away my friend! This is what my new eBook Tweeting with God is all about. I want to encourage you as you go through life to know what God is near, He loves you and He cares.

Hope you stop by the blog and check the eBook out!

Cintia Listenbee is a journalist who blogs at www.simplycintia.com Her new eBook is called “Tweeting with God.” http://www.simplycintia.com/p/ebook.html

Bad Decisions Make Great Stories.

2011-02-15T21:30:00.007-05:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In today's adventures, I passed a sign that read,

"Bad decisions make great stories."

I have a LOT of great stories to tell.

Have I told you about the time my roommate and I feel asleep on a train?

In New York City?

We were 18. We slept all the way to the end of the line.

It was 2 a.m. No more trains for the night.

Luckily for us, the local bar {Crocodile Tears} was still open.

We felt right at home and began dancing with our new friends.

Closing time.

We hand selected the most sober drivers and begged for a ride.

We hung on for life. They ditched us at Dobbs Ferry.

A quarter later, a taxi was on the way.

We hit our beds around 5 am.

We slept .... and slept.

2 pm found us awake and hungry.

It was then that I realized I had left my wallet and checkbook in the taxi.

It was never to be seen again.

Bad decisions make great stories.

Share one of yours.

A room for my mother

2011-02-11T23:58:00.003-05:00

Honor.

Dictionary.com tells it best:

Honor (verb): to hold in honor or high respect; revere:

To honor one's parents.

Honor is a verb.

It requires action.

We've added 2 more chairs to our dining room table.

Our house is under construction.... we are adding on another bedroom.

My mom and step dad have come to live with us.

Honor is a verb.

It isn't always easy.

But it's definitely worth it.

Along for the ride

2011-02-07T09:20:00.001-05:00

The Phone Never Rang

2011-02-05T09:10:00.002-05:00

I was on my way to Blissdom. Checking off my mental "to do" list. Expecting a call. A call that should have come an hour ago. Funny..... my phone never rang.

Wait. Where is my phone?

Then I *mentally* saw it happen. I had left the phone on top of my trunk. I had finished packing the car... and then drove away. I DROVE AWAY. The phone was forever gone.

5 days away from my kids. WITH NO PHONE.

Naked.

I might as well have forgotten everything.

I cried.

I shared my grief with girlfriends...for 5 days.

It was bad.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I first heard of email as a freshman in college. I never thought I'd use it.

When I was a junior, I got a pager. It was cutting edge for a 20 year old.

A cell phone..... why would the average person need one?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I've become very aware, very quickly, how much I rely on "my phone." It's my clock, my alarm, my calendar.... If my kids need me... If my sister wants to chat... if my husband texts me something funny......... not to mention~ phone calls, pictures, etc.

So, what have I learned?

My friends are social media fanatics. I'm one too.
And that's ok. No excuses needed.

My grandmother had a Mahjong circle of friends.

My circle of friends connect on Twitter, Face Book, my blog, and more.

Technology has helped these friendships to grow. So, until I get that new phone... send me your address?

My kids will do it differently

2011-02-03T12:50:00.005-05:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Once upon a time, I decided I would do things differently.

I wouldn't be a neat freak.

I'd sleep in on vacation.

My kids wouldn't watch junk tv.

Most of these decisions were made as a result of the way I grew up. However, when you've grown up in two households, you have a lot of options for decision making.

My mind was set. I knew HOW I wanted it done. Then I had kids. Kids who are always growing and changing. And my rules started changing..... a little here, a little there. Before I knew it, they were a new set of rules. My rules. Rules made from experience and understanding. Rules that I can break at any time. Rules that allow GRACE to always rule.

I know my kids will do it differently.

However, there is one rule I hope they keep the same.

Rule 134:

When sleeping in a hotel, you MUST jump on the bed. At least once.

I'd love to hear what you think .....

We speak "Pink"

2011-01-27T17:52:00.002-05:00

We have girls.

A big girl who loves PINK.

Pink. Glitter. High heels. Pink.

A little girl who loves everything her sister does.

We have become a family who speaks and understands the language of pink.

As my girls grow, I know we will speak other colors.....

So, I'm soaking up the pink.

Loving them in these days of PINK.

What color do you speak?

When reality is better than the dream

2011-01-20T09:45:00.004-05:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We all have dreams for our kids.

Sadie looks like she's on the verge of walking. From a stranger, "Any day now and you'll be running to keep up with her." It appears to be this way, yet we know differently.

Have you ever held so tightly to a dream that you can't figure out why it isn't reality? I think that's where I've been. My daily thoughts look something like this....

Maybe if I practice with her more? Can I buy a device that will help her? Maybe if I wanted it more for her God would answer this prayer ? She's 4. Maybe she'll walk when she's 5?

This week, it clicked for me. It was real.. and it was sad.

I can't fix this.

Sadie is much more than what I can't fix.

She's funny and so uniquely herself.

Her laugh melts me. She has an awesome imagination and adores books.

She loves Jesus and talks about him almost everyday.

Her reality is much better than the dream.

"I'm not in it to win it... I'm in it for you"

2011-01-18T14:42:00.002-05:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My newest favorite song.

I want to follow you!

2011-01-15T22:42:00.001-05:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

There are quite a few new followers at Sweet Sadie Marie!

If you are new... please, leave a comment so I can follow you back!

I look forward to getting to know you!

Me too ...

2011-01-13T06:24:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, Sadie and I had this conversation :

Sadie: "I am Sadie."

Sadie {even louder}: "I am Sadie."

Me: "I love Sadie."

Sadie: "Me too."

And then we both laughed.

It's beginning to look a lot like.....

2011-01-12T09:03:00.003-05:00

Christmas came and went.... so quickly! Here is a small recap:

1) All dressed up for Christmas Eve service.

2) Caris walked into the living room on Christmas morning and exclaimed,

"It's a toy wonderland!"

3) Sadie wanted a baby for Christmas. She was so happy!

4) The first "White Christmas" in almost 50 years!

We had a fabulous Christmas.... I hope you did too!

What was your favorite toy?

Would you like Lemon?

2011-01-07T08:51:00.004-05:00

Right on time. Man these steps are steep. Hang my coat. Clock in. Back up the steps.

Soup for today: New England Clam Chowder.

Special: Halibut with stewed tomatoes and Mac & Cheese.

Check my tables. Nothing yet.

Oh, good. Next week's schedule is up. Double take. What? Why am I not on for Friday?

"Hey, Karen. I noticed that next week's schedule is up and I'm not on it for Friday. I ALWAYS waitress on Friday nights."

She dropped her pen and looked up at me with a smile. The pause seemed to last an eternity.

"Yes.... and you shine on Fridays. It's a good crowd and you work it well. But right now, Sherry needs a Friday. So........ blah,blah,blah, blah...."

I smiled and excused myself....refusing to let her see my watery eyes.

Yes, it was money to take to college with me, but more than anything it was pride.

I could work a Friday night like no one's business.

I knew the answers. I knew the faces. I knew how to do it ..... and I did it well.

More than that... the faces knew me. And they knew I did it well.

Friday nights were a trophy and now I had to share.

_____________________________________

So many people have shared their Friday nights with me.

Sure, I'm 32. I get it now.

Those Friday nights have made a difference in my life.

Friday nights... given to me by a wiser soul ... knowing I needed it.

Just like Sherry needed it.

Share a Friday night story with me.

A packing list for Blog Conferences

2011-01-05T21:29:00.002-05:00

Headed to a Blog Conference?

Here are some items you'll want to pack:

Clothes : Pack the pieces that make you feel fabulous. Jeans, khakis, Dresses. (Up to you)

{Dress for you.}

Comfortable shoes.

If all else fails (and just for fun): Borrow clothes & accessories from a good friend.

YOUR Media tools : Laptop, cell phone, iPad, etc.

Pack cords for charging. {If you forget, try lost & found at the hotel}

A surge protector

Business cards

Camera/ video camera

Toiletries: Your daily basics... and then some? {Tylenol, etc.}

Other: snacks, a book you are reading, a picture of your kids, a notebook for taking notes, gum, your planner, etc. {leave the kitchen sink at home}

Think about what you use on a daily basis.
Will you use it even at a conference? Pack it!

WHAT DID I MISS?

10 Tips for a Successful Conference

2011-01-04T12:04:00.001-05:00

As we say goodbye to 2010 ...

2010-12-31T10:41:00.009-05:00

As I lay down my pen for 2010 , I'm flooded with visions of life we've shared.

As life directs my writing, my stories share seasons of the soul.

Some are filled with funny anecdotes and fabulous times with friends.

Days when Sadie's special needs tell other stories of our small family working hard to make the best possible world for her.

Yet others are devoted to celebrating life ... and all God has given us.

I am very aware that these are the good 'ol days.

I treasure the fact that you have shared them with me.

So, before we close the door on 2010 ..... here's a peak at my favorite posts!

Dear Mr. Road Rage

What is Your Gift ?

Don't Squeeze the Juice Box

10 Tips to Tranform Your Space

Masking Disability

Are you smarter than P-E-N-N-S-Y-L-V-A-N-I-A ?

2010-12-30T06:15:00.000-05:00

1987.

3rd grade.

The spelling word: Pennsylvania.

6 kids tried and failed.

My turn.

P-E-N-N-S-Y-L-V-A-N-I-A.

Kristy Fiore clapped.

I started jumping up and down.

This was momentous.

As I reflect on the past, I am reminded to celebrate

life's P-E-N-N-S-Y-L-V-A-N-I-A moments.

Recreational Eating

2010-12-28T00:19:00.002-05:00

Laughter. Christmas. Sisters.

Remembering Christmas past and feeling as if it were sooner.

Grandparents. Presents. Card playing.

Eating way too many baked goods...knowing soon the scale will reveal it.

Snow. Wii playing. Christmas movie watching.

Soaking in every moment.... knowing these moments will pass too soon.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T08:57:00.001-05:00

It's as close as we're getting

2010-12-21T06:56:00.006-05:00

Last week we delivered our letters.

The girls are a little scared of the jolly man.

However, they love a trip to the Post Office.

What's on your list for Santa?

The gift of giving

2010-12-18T13:40:00.004-05:00

There will be presents under the tree.

Quite a few.

We like to give gifts.

But we like something else more.

The presents our kids open are tools we use when we play with them.

Yes, we play with our kids.

A lot.

It's what makes the gift of giving so exciting.....

I know that it will bring hours of fun. and learning. and conversation.

Now that's gift giving.

All decked out

2010-12-14T20:15:00.003-05:00

Just a glimpse of our Christmas decorations! I love putting everything up ...... but taking them down is another story!

I hope your lights are up ... and that they shine!

Sadie

2010-12-14T11:02:00.002-05:00

Handmade Christmas: Inspiration

2010-12-13T16:46:00.006-05:00

I just couldn't close up this handmade party!

I want one more week to share things with you!

Today ~ inspiration I get from other blogs.

There are a few craft bloggers who inspire me .... and many gifts have been made from their inspiration {and detailed directions}!

Here they are :

A Pretty Cool Life

The Creative Itch

How Does She?

You are bound to find some great ideas on these blogs.

Where do you look for ideas when you are gifting?

p.s. Looking to start a new family tradition? Check out Craig's answer to yesterday's question...

It's tradition .... A tale of trees

2010-12-12T19:21:00.004-05:00

We love cutting down our Christmas tree.

We do it every year

Usually with my mom.

{Hi, Mom!}

Here's a glimpse......

Share a tradition..... new or old.

I can't wait to hear!

Home Alone

2010-12-09T23:08:00.001-05:00

When I think of Christmas movies, I think of Home Alone.

However, our current favorite is Elf.

What's your favorite Christmas movie?

A handmade Christmas : Felt hair clips

2010-12-06T20:46:00.000-05:00

Us

2010-12-02T22:56:00.000-05:00

Handmade Chrismas: The ghost of Christmas past

2010-11-29T20:47:00.002-05:00

Okay, this week I wanted to share a story of a past "Handmade Christmas".

I've always made stuff. Always.

I have a brother who just celebrated his 10th birthday. {Yes, you read that correctly}.

When he was smaller, I made a book basket for him. It had his name spelled out in wooden {painted} letters.... and he used it for years and years.

It was a gift I was proud of. A gift I thought of ....

Share with us a gift you've made and given in the past....

Can't wait to hear!

Lots of turkey and a thankful heart

2010-11-26T20:23:00.002-05:00

We have it good.

REALLY good.

When I focus on how much we have ..... and how we can help others ~

God seems to send awesome serving opportunities my way.

It' s been a cool week.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Thanks for all you do to bless my life.

Handmade Christmas: Just Bake

2010-11-22T15:34:00.004-05:00

Baking is a fabulous way to gift for the holidays!

From neighbors to friends....

baked goods can be packaged beautifully and given as a stand alone gift!

I love to make/bake the following

and pack it up in a Christmas tin {found at thrift stores for cheap}:

1) Nestle Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies

Just follow the recipe on the chip bag!

2) Pretzels dipped in chocolate and rolled in crushed Candy Canes.

* Pretty and delicious

3) Sugar cookies with red/green sugar

Follow an cook book recipe!

4) Cake Balls

Bakerella is the expert... www.bakerella.com

These make a BEAUTIFUL gift!

Share what you make or bake!

Powered by Linky Tools

Click here to enter your link and view this Linky Tools list...

"Icy Petzels"

2010-11-21T22:04:00.002-05:00

Sadie loves "Icy Petzels"........ translated it means "Spicy Pretzels".

Personally, I like "Icy Petzels" better.