Bringing up Boys

What I've been up to. by Matias

2011-09-02T20:19:00.000-04:00

After coming home from the hospital I had a lot of things to do! I had my first bath. At first I thought I liked it... ...and then I decided I didn't!The dry off/message time was alright, but I had bigger plans for the morning.I thought Mom and I could do a little photo shoot.Even though Mom isn't very good with the camera, I think I'm pretty stinkin' cute! I went to the zoo for the first

Birthdays

2011-08-29T18:02:00.000-04:00

A lot has happened since Matias joined our family: We celebrated Caleb's 4th birthday with family and cupcakes! We had a combined friends party at a local play place for both boys Caleb's cake. Oh so many things I would change about it, but he declared it was awesome! :) Sammy's 6th birthday Yoshi cake I tried so many times to catch a picture of Caleb sliding, but

School is IN!!

2011-08-29T17:43:00.000-04:00

So many things I missed posting about since Matias was born!One of these days I'll give a full review. Our most recent happening is that we started school last Monday! The night before we had a "special" dinner. I intended on making a full-out fun dinner, but got so busy getting school stuff ready and making our special dessert (which is, after all, the most important anyway, right?!) that I ran

Don't Worry

2011-08-22T15:03:00.000-04:00

I did have the baby!Ha! I've been a bit busy, but thought I should update the old blog. The baby did come!Matias Josue joined our *growing* little family on April 14th. Welcome, sweet baby boy! He is the most amazing little guy I have ever met!Don't get me wrong. Samuel and Caleb were both GREAT babies and we love them beyond belief and are in no way trying to compare them, but this little

Tomorrow! Tomorrow! I love ya Tomorrow!

2011-04-13T15:20:00.000-04:00

So tomorrow is our big day! We'll be dropping the big boys off at my parent's house tonight and heading to the hospital bright and early tomorrow to meet baby boy #3!!! =) I am so very excited to meet this little man that I already love so much!! And at the same time I am completely exhausted already from not sleeping well! =P It seems so weird that in just a few hours we will be a family of 5!

Swooning over Baby Items!

2011-01-13T10:02:00.000-05:00

I've been working hard lately to rack up the Swagbucks! We're hoping to get enough by the end of March so we can get this car seat: We're almost there! We just need another $14.41! Woohoo!! While I was checking our Amazon wish list again I stumbled on these! It doesn't get much cuter!I've been wanting some type of car seat/stroller toys.We never had any for the first 2 boys. This is another

'Tis the Season

2010-12-04T10:33:00.000-05:00

To figure out what to do for our Christmas cards this year!! YIKES!!! I am on loving these: Classic yet different. I really like this one! I'm leaning toward this one since I have an idea up my sleeves for the 3 picture spots! =) Simple and I love the blue. Not your typical red or green. Fun! Pretty sure it would be a good idea to put pictures of my own family though, no?! =)They are, of course,

This I love...

2010-09-25T11:57:00.000-04:00

Busy Bugs!! This has been such a great toy/learning tool! (don't you love when you can combine those two?!) We got it for the boys this past Christmas and I really didn't think we'd get as much use out of it as we already have! Caleb has gotten tons of use out of this.He is learning patterns and counting and it's also a great activity to keep him busy (& relatively quiet!) while Sammy and I work

So thankful...

2010-09-11T12:54:00.001-04:00

...for those who serve to protect us...for those who sacrificed so much...for our country

Ode to a great summer!

2010-08-30T15:07:00.000-04:00

Ummm....how is it almost September?!?! What I will miss about summer... + Sipping Lemonade on a lazy afternoon + Sending the boys outside to eat a popsicle (and so I have 2.5 minutes of quiet!) =) + Mostly unscheduled days of doing whatever we want! + Day trips to the shore + Soaking wet, happy boys playing outside (again for a little quiet. this seems to be a theme!) + Riding bikes and taking

What I've learned the last few days...

2010-08-11T14:01:00.000-04:00

+ A perfect summer day with fun and friends was very much needed and very much enjoyed!+ When having said fun day remember to apply sunscreen to yourself and not just your kids! Ouch!+ A chocolate milkshake will always be a perfect way to end a perfect day! And on a slightly different note:+ I <3 Powerwashing+ It is the new bungie jumping for thrills! Don't believe me? Try it!+ Someone must,

If I had a couple hundred dollars....

2010-08-02T16:51:00.000-04:00

...I would march (or possibly drive) right over the bridge to Ikea and buy this: Hemnes sofa table $150! Sure, it's Ikea, but it's a cute sofa table!! =) And then this from Craigslist: *painted white with new black or oil rubbed bronze handle I would totally marry this beauty!* $50! **Swoon** After which I would *RUN* right over to Home Goods and spend the rest on baskets, accessories and

I'm tryin'!

2010-07-26T20:30:00.000-04:00

I'm trying to instill the love of coupons/sales/rebates in my boys.I'm pretty sure Sammy is catching it.Caleb...not so much! We went to Shop Rite tonight and did the most amazing deal! We bought:3 Blue Bunny popsicle boxes which were 1/2 off for $1.49 each.We used (3) $1 off couponsSo we paid $1.47 for all 3 boxes. It gets better! =)I'm submitting my receipt for a $15 rebate!!!WHAT?!?!?!?!That's

Back in the Saddle Again!

2010-06-26T20:47:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I've done a good drugstore deal. I tried last week.Went to 3 CVS's.Total failure!I would like to suggest that it was a failure for CVS since they never can seem to keep their stinkin' shelves stocked! grr! =P Anyway, I went tonight to get in on the deal before it ends today and this is what I got.{Stock pics since I'm too lazy busy ;) to take and upload my own picture! =)

I am...

2010-06-23T11:23:00.000-04:00

...married to an amazing man.Is he perfect? No.Do I expect him to be? Sometimes, but that's my failure, not his. He...+ supports me {even when he probably shouldn't since I choose some wacky things to do sometimes!=)}+ is so much fun to be with!+ is the *incredible* father of our 2 beautiful, amazing little boys+ plays with them and teaches them what it means to be a loving husband and father+

It's a beautiful day!

2010-06-03T13:04:00.001-04:00

So, Thursdays are *almost* always my favorite mail day.I love getting the sale papers... Add in some free samples,a $5 Rite Aid gift card,and a ShopAtHome check for $20.47 and I am pleased as punch!(where did that saying come from?!) ***Why, yes. Those are our brand new floors! Glory! Halelujah! Praise the Lord!***

Someone please....

2010-05-01T08:08:00.000-04:00

....stop the clocks!!!! I cannot believe Caleb is 3 today!You know how people always tell you when you have a baby how fast time will go and you say "yeah, i'm sure it will" or something similar and don't really believe it?Time seriously goes really fast! I'm just sayin'.I have no idea how he's 3 already! I remember being preggo with him like it was last week.I tear up when I think about waking

5!!!!

2010-03-24T12:20:00.000-04:00

Such a bittersweet day!Today is Sammy's 5th Birthday! Bitter because I kind of miss those crazy days when he was little and I had no idea what I was doing! ;)Sweet because I'm so proud of the boy he's becoming and can't wait to see what God has for his and our future! =) Samuel, I am so incredible blessed to be your Mommy! I thank God everyday for placing you in our family! You made me a mommy

Ode to Bargains!

2010-03-06T23:19:00.000-05:00

This is so crazy fun!I went to Shop Rite last night and saved an obscene amount of money (in my opinion).I spent $44.56 and saved $64.66!!! Plus I got $8 catalinas for my next shopping trip and 2 free reusable shopping bags! So I walked out of there with $101.61 worth of stuff for just $36.56!!! How insane is that?! So, tomorrow I plan on attacking huge RiteAid deals. Here's what I'm gonna try.

Squeeeealing!!!! =)

2010-03-04T20:59:00.000-05:00

My hubby is away and I have an insane migraine, but I am super happy! So much so that I think I was caught squealing a few minutes ago! =) Don't get me wrong, the boys were unnecessarily grumpy and whiney today and I know it's by God's grace that we all survived the day! =) But I had been meaning to get to Acme all week and when I saw this post by Michelle (you are stinking amazing and my new

2009-12-31T14:24:00.000-05:00

Have you ever seen this poem? Dear Lord, So far today, I’ve done all right. I haven’t gossiped, haven’t lost my temper, haven’t been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish, or over indulgent. I’m very thankful for that. But, in a few minutes, God, I’m going to get out of bed. And from then on, I’m probably going to need a lot more help. Amen to that! But today I'd like to submit my mommy's version:

Merry Christmas!!

2009-12-25T00:50:00.000-05:00

I have to admit that I had a bit of trouble getting in the Christmas spirit this year. Not sure what it was. But I'd be willing to bet (except that I don't!) that it was that I was focused on buying just the right gifts and making it as fun as possible for my boys. Nothing wrong with that... ...except everything's wrong with that! I wasn't focusing on the true reason for celebrating Christmas.

I would like to thank all of the people who made this post possible...

2009-12-11T12:24:00.000-05:00

Robyn, Steph and Ashley!!! without your fantastical stories of feeling like you'd just robbed a drugstore because of the crazy good deals I never would be writing this post in which I share the night that made me very giddy! =) I suppose I should also thank RiteAid for having these fun sales and accepting coupons and offering rebates that make them even better! Here's what I got: Here's what

Grateful...

2009-11-26T08:18:00.000-05:00

doesn't even begin to describe it! I have so so much to be thankful for! Family - crazy or not I love 'em! ;) Friends - ditto! ;) Home - we're so privileged in this country to even have a roof over our heads and yet we complain that they're not big enough, not nice enough, etc. I'm SO guilty of this! ={ Hope - seriously! how can I even begin to say "thank you" for the hope that I have in Christ

Resigned to Reality...

2009-11-25T16:43:00.000-05:00

I was put myself in charge of making homemade ice cream for our Thanksgiving festivities tomorrow. I have never made homemade ice cream before and I am now a forever fan!I made vanilla ice cream {recipe available upon request =) } and it is a.ma.zing!**side note** Vanilla bean's are ridiculously expensive!!!! I chose extract! =)It was easier 'an butterin' toast!I can't wait to try it with apple

All I want for Christmas...

2009-11-17T14:01:00.000-05:00

Ok, it's really not all I want, but I'm pretty sure it's what I most want! =) Isn't this so pretty?!?! I'm thinking I might get the names of MY kids on it though.Just a thought! *** Awesome, darling hubby -- if you happen to be reading this and might be interested in getting it you can find it here. Just sayin'! ;) ***

The Cat in the Hat and his cronies (i.e. Thing 1 and Thing 2)

2009-11-01T17:07:00.001-05:00

* A good time was had by all. * Wigs were (mostly) not worn. (As in, Josie wore hers part of the time and Caleb wore it for the picture!) * Lessons were learned (Do not try to make a wig again! Just buy one!! side note: they did look better than in the picture, but we had to throw them on them quickly and snap the picture before tears and torn up wigs resulted!) * Way too much candy is now in my

Brotherly Love (Why can't every minute of every day be like this?!)

2009-10-16T09:07:00.002-04:00

Sammy: "Eeeww! Mommy!!! Caleb has boogies!!"Me: "Then get him a tissue and help him blow his nose"{goes to get tissue}Sammy: "Here, Caleb. Blow out....no, that was in. Blow out! Out, Caleb. Like this..."{blows through his mouth}Sammy: "Like that, Caleb. But with your nose....good, Caleb!! Good job!!! You are a good nose blower!!!"

My Design Style

2009-10-15T15:04:00.002-04:00

So, I just took the HomeGoods StyleScope Quiz. I think these types of things are generally silly, but the description really does describe what I'd love my house to be someday. As for my "style"....I never would have described myself as country in any way!! Oh well! The casual part is right on! =)One question made me laugh. The answer options were: a My front hall looks like a train wreck - a

Welcome FALL!!

2009-10-02T14:11:00.004-04:00

I'm learning to love fall. I don't find it easy to accept the end of summer. Who wants to say goodbye to:* play dates at the park (i.e. mommies getting together to chat and who need their kids to run off some pent up energy/take good naps for crying out loud!)* day trips to the shore (beach for the non-south jersey crowd),* Rita's water ice (can I get an "amen"?!?!)* eating on the deck/reading on

WARNING: Long Post!!

2009-09-24T15:05:00.011-04:00

I'm linking this post to Kimba's DIY Day! =)I've been busy! =)My fall decorations are done (for now - since I'm addicted to "tweaking"!!)Buckle your seat belts. There are going to be a lot of photos in this one!I started with this framed shell that I made over the summer. I had painted the frame black, used pieces of an old book page and added a scallop shell which I love. I didn't however love

My 1st DIY Day!! =)

2009-09-10T09:18:00.004-04:00

This is my very first entry in Kimba's DIY Day at A Soft Place to Land!!Yippeeeeeeeee!!! =)Ok, so it's small and was beyond easy and doesn't compare to the other entries, but it's mine and I like it so leave me alone! ;)Here's the cringe inducing BEFORE:It's a bit scary, but I got it for free so it's all going to be ok! =)It has a goldish, greenish, brownish color on the frame that the picture

The definition of a frustrating morning: (In which I hang my head in utter shame!!!)

2009-08-17T12:40:00.003-04:00

The day starts just dandy. You wake feeling *mostly* rested.You make breakfast for the kids and realize they're really rather pleasant today.You vow to not even touch the computer until your house is totally in order. Enough is ENOUGH!!You throw a load of laundry in the washer and do a little jig and sing a little ditty that you're caught up on laundry.You clean the kitchen till it sparkles and

Life with boys

2009-07-29T16:14:00.002-04:00

If something can be spilled...it will!If something can get dirty...it will get dirty, stained, grimey, and unwashable!If something can get sticky...EVERYTHING will!If something can be stuck under a rug...watch your step!If something can be shoved into a travel mug...hide your underwear!#####Don't ask me how I know any of these things!I love these boys so much!!!!! =)

Maine! It's in my blood!

2009-07-17T11:30:00.001-04:00

I posted this just over a year ago. Tomorrow we're going back to MAINE!!!!!We are beside ourselves excited!!!!!YIPPPEEEEEEE!!!!!=)I can't explain it really. It just came upon me the other day. I am yearning for a trip to Maine! Our family vacationed there every year and since high school I've only been there once and that was 4 years ago.I can't explain to you what that does to me! I feel it in

Too cute!!

2009-06-29T21:18:00.002-04:00

Check out this giveaway over at Pink Nothings (love that name. i guess it's because i can relate!)The giveaway is for a bumbo cover from Botique Sweet Cheeks. REALLY CUUUUUTE!!

Why CAN'T money grow on trees?!?!

2009-06-26T12:28:00.002-04:00

If it did this is the first thing I'd buy!I like that it's:+ Simple+ Dark Wood+ Has tallerish rails on top+ Can be 2 beds and still look identical+ The ladder is attached (cuz I have a certain 2 year old who would drag it around the house if it weren't!!!!)We've been looking at this on the BJ's website and the other day we were at BJ's and saw that it's half the price in the store!! That would be

Another giveaway! =)

2009-06-15T09:44:00.003-04:00

I don't blog about every giveaway, but this one is too good! And getting a 2nd entry may or may not have something to do with it! ;)I love this necklace!! "Blessed"Doesn't that just say it all?!We're so blessed!Things have been hard around here lately in so many areas, but we're focusing on the positive!I am so blessed!God is too good to me!!Anyway, check out the giveaway here....just don't enter

Ode to My Herbs...

2009-06-08T12:51:00.003-04:00

Oh, my dear, Cilantro, Basil and Parsley,How did I survive these...*ahem*...many years without you.You smell so nice.You look so pretty.You taste so yummy!I can't help myself when I walk past you,I pick and munch all day long!You make such amazing snacks, lunches, dinners and breakfasts!You have taken over my menus!I have no will power against you!!Please don't be lonely since I plan on adding to

Sweeeeeet!!

2009-05-28T15:19:00.002-04:00

Thanks to my darling sis I found this blog today.looooove!!!!The choo choo train! Be still my heart!!! Would look awesome in the boys' room.I also love the Dandelion blowing in the wind! How fun is that?!And the Fire hydrant makes me giggle!! =)Check it out!! Oh and she's a SAHM so that means she's cool! =)

NOT a John Denver fan, but he's stuck in my head today!!!

2009-05-06T16:55:00.002-04:00

"I'm leavin' on a jet plane. Don't know when I'll be back again"Ok, I'll be back Saturday night.I'm heading out bright and early tomorrow morning.Mom, Sarah (sister), Josie (niece) and I will be flying to Iowa for a Girls Weekend Away! =)My brother, Scott and his family are there for a few months during their furlough from Colombia.We'll be doing lots of visiting with them and checking out

My 10 favorite things about Spring...

2009-05-05T17:20:00.000-04:00

...at least the ones I can think of right now (kids playing loudly, nap time approaching, packing list in hand, dreaming of a few days away. These are some of the things we're competing with here today!)1. Sunny mornings and opening up all the shades2. No jackets to find/put on/zip up3. Bare feet in the grass/sand4. Ceiling fans!! I really don't care what the fancy decorators say. I adore ceiling

Sammy Says

2009-05-05T12:46:00.002-04:00

{While shopping for a Mother's Day gift with his father}Daddy: "Buddy, do you know what Mother's Day is?"Sammy: "No"D: "It's when we celebrate the mommies and say 'thank you' to them". So we're getting a gift for Mommy. Do you know who else we celebrate?"S: "No"D: "Grandmom. Because she's your Mommy's mom. And Tuchis (nickname. long story!) because she's my mom."S: "It's a day for girls"D: "Not

It's Friday but Sunday is Coming!!!

2009-04-10T13:50:00.002-04:00

I'm overwhelmed with how GREAT our God is!! I have so much more than I deserve!Today we celebrate the day Christ died for us.That sounds strange, yet it's awesome and a reason to celebrate because we know what happened on Sunday!!!So often in our lives (especially when sharing the gospel with others) we forget to talk about and FOCUS on what happened on Sunday.He's alive!What an awesome time it

We're beyond excited!!!!

2009-03-31T19:45:00.002-04:00

Tote has been gone since last Tuesday on a missions trip to Mexico.It.has.been a.long.week!!!!!Plus, this trip was following a week long trip to Florida.So, I think I'm ready for a day off!! =)Anyway, he was scheduled to arrive at 11pm but was able to catch an earlier flight!!!!!I just checked and his early flight is scheduled to arrive early!How awesome is that?!?!With his original flight I was,

Please pray for Santiago!

2009-03-28T20:13:00.004-04:00

This is my handsome nephew, JacksonJackson is my brother, Scott's son. Scott and his wife Laura along with their 3 kids Jackson(7), Makayla(6), Avianna(2) are missionaries in Colombia.Their best friends in Colombia Alfredo and Juana's son Santiago was just diagnosed with stage 3 or 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Santiago is 4 years old. Their family was planning on relocating to another city along with

Who doesn't love a deal?!

2009-03-25T17:26:00.003-04:00

We went to a children's consignment sale in Philly today. They had so much stuff! Some things like clothes were overpriced in my opinion, but I got a deal STEAL!!!I got this twin size bedding set for Caleb. I've been thinking I'd like to have something like this for him, but we just couldn't possibly afford it. I realize that he's still in a crib, but I've just been thinking ahead and really

2009-03-23T11:33:00.002-04:00

This is my new door decor for spring. Please, try not to be jealous of the mini blinds!!I got the tin hanger for 95 cents at a thrift store!! The ribbon was $1 for the entire roll and the flowers were 50% off ($1 each). Making a grand total of $3.95 with ribbon to spare!!So, do we like it better with or without the willow(?) shoots??And should I use the extra ribbon to make a hanger for it?HAPPY

Thankful Thursday

2009-03-12T23:43:00.002-04:00

I have about 10 minutes before it's Friday so I'd better make this a quick one!I'm thankful for......my hard-working husband who's away in Florida this week....the boys being very good so far since Daddy's been gone (we're only on day 2 though so let's not hold our breath! Just kidding!!)...my brother, sis-in-law, nephew and 2 nieces that are coming tomorrow!!!!!!!! Yipee!!!! We haven't seen them

Let's pray for Little Miss Hannah

2009-03-12T12:45:00.002-04:00

What a beautiful little baby! Let's pray that they find a cure soon and that Hannah can beat this disease!!I wish I knew how to embed the youtube video, but it's not working so here's the link.

Caleb Says

2009-03-09T12:51:00.002-04:00

Welcome to the 1st edition of Caleb says! =)I never want Caleb to stop saying "feiku (thank you), mommy!"It's the cutest thing ever!!!He's been singing a lot lately. I'm going to try and video tape it.One of my favorites is "wa wa wa elmo's on" I guess he thinks that's what the song says since as soon as we hear it we say "elmo's on!"

Sammy Sings

2009-03-05T19:47:00.002-05:00

Like the true Eagles fan that he is, Sammy started singing the Eagles fight song....but he either didn't remember the words or just wanted to give it hisown creative touch."Fly, Eagles, Flyto North Carolina"

Thankful Thursday

2009-03-05T13:53:00.004-05:00

"I am thankful for laughter, except when milk comes out of my nose." - Woody AllenI've had kind of a frustrating day.Maybe not quite frustrating, just crazy busy.Ok, a little frustrating too! =)I've decided, though, to focus on the good things and not worry about the not so good things.So, I was thinking about all of the things that I'm thankful. Obviously the list of the things I'm thankful for

True Indeed!

2009-02-26T15:15:00.002-05:00

While we were eating lunch today Caleb asked me for Daddy. He does this QUITE OFTEN! Caleb: "Daddy?"Me: "He's working, buddy"Caleb: "Pop-pop?"Me: "He's working, too"Sammy: "Mommy, why do the grown-up boys go to work?"Me: "because when they work they get money and we use that money to have a house and cars, food, clothes and toys and everything we have. Your daddy works very hard so we can have

I'm so excited!!

2009-02-23T15:57:00.002-05:00

Meet Jacques le CrocIs this little guy cute, or what?!?!?!VBS this summer is going to be so fun!I'm in charge of the crafts this year and I can't wait!!If the croc weren't cute enough, here are his friends:TuckerBlossomBelleFlashDon't miss VBS this year!!!!

GRRRRRRR!!!!!

2009-02-23T15:48:00.003-05:00

I must say that I have LOVED the National Do Not Call Registry. We have received significantly less calls since registering our number several years ago.Recently, however, one company continues to call and it's really getting on my nerves! I assume that it's the same company although I can't be sure. When I ask what company they're calling from they tell me either Card Services or Account

Hopefully she'll still remember me when she's famous!!

2009-02-19T21:39:00.003-05:00

One of my good friends, Meredith has just officially started her photography business. It's so exciting!! She takes amazing pictures! I'm so happy for her taking this exciting step! Go, Mer!! =)Don't worry, I wouldn't dream of giving you such awesome news without also giving you a way to get in touch with her so you can have her take pictures of your beautiful families! ;)Check out her brand

Say what?!

2009-02-18T18:17:00.003-05:00

Sammy: Mommy, why do people love their family?"Me: "Well, because God gave us our families and we're thankful for them" (totally not sure how to answer that one!)S: but I don't love my heart" (what does THAT mean?!?!)M: "why not, buddy?"S: "my heart goes doing when i eat"M: "what?"S: "it goes doing doing when i eat."M: "how does it go?"{proceeds to mouth the words 'doing doing'.}S: "it goes like

Silly Sammy Strikes [Again!]

2009-02-16T16:55:00.002-05:00

Sammy says:"One day we have to get magic beans and then say 'bidly, bidly, bidly boo!' and then a beanstalk will grow. And then we have to see where that beanstalk goes."Me: "Where do you think that beanstalk will go?"Sammy: "Up to a giant's house in the clouds. He's gonna try to get us and we have to climb back down the magic beanstalk. And then we have to give him something."Me: "What do we

Looks like someone's been watching a little too much of this...

2009-02-13T21:20:00.002-05:00

Tonight at dinner Sammy and I had a strange conversation. It went something like this.Sammy: "Maybe someday I can get a faster toy"Me: "What faster toy?"S: "It's a fast toy. When I'm buckled up and I push the green button it flies me up in the air real fast. It flies me out of the house and into the sky and takes me to the park and the lake and restaurants to eat. Then it brings me home and I

A girl can dream

2009-02-13T15:21:00.002-05:00

My sister and I went to a fabric store the other day.In one word.....LOVE!!!!!!We saw so many great things!I didn't buy anything because well, it's kinda hard to convince people to give you things for free since you have no money! They aren't real keen on that! ;)I saw this fabric and fell in love! It's suede with embroidered swirly things.I've been thinking about using this color in our bedroom

All about the man I love!

2009-02-11T15:40:00.002-05:00

I don't often blog about my husband.Shame on me!I think I just take him for granted and I'm working on that.The truth is that he's the most amazing man I have ever met!We met at school in Argentina where we lived for 3.5 years (he's originally from Mexico). We got along great right from the beginning. His sense of humor had a lot to do with it!I honestly married my best friend. (side note: I

Not Me! Monday

2009-02-09T11:15:00.002-05:00

I've never joined the "Not Me! Monday" party before so these are probably lame, but I'm a rookie!Here goes:I did NOT write the month and day on the sliding glass door with a white board marker because I was sick and tired of hearing the almost 4 year old ask what day it was. Of course, I would ONLY do that if it was in an effort to be educational in my parenting and not lazy! =)I do NOT have a

Since I'm a copycat..

2009-01-30T14:25:00.003-05:00

My sister just posted about this giveaway and I'm a sucker for a giveaway copycat I had to enter. Here's the linky. Check it out!

Sammy Says

2009-01-29T14:06:00.002-05:00

"Mommy, you have issues"Oh how right you are, my son!! =)"Let's not be too hasty, Mommy!"He said he heard that one on Mickey Mouse."When I'm 21 I'll be a grown up."Gottcha. I'll try and remember that.On a slightly different note.The sneaky little dude went into his bedroom right before napand hid a football under his pillow.Unluckily for him, his Mama isn't as dumb as she looks! =)

Dummy

2009-01-28T12:02:00.003-05:00

I'm ashamed to admit it, but there are so many parts of this book that just FLY right over my head.Which makes me wonder.....what does that make me????!!!!

Do you see what I see?

2009-01-27T19:17:00.002-05:00

Here's what I'm currently looking at:Rub a dub dub2 Crazies in a tub!(I'm sitting in the hall as to avoid any splashes on myself or my puter!)

Freaky Wednesday

2009-01-21T15:11:00.004-05:00

Have you seen the movie Freaky Friday?I realize it's only Wednesday, but something most definitely freaky is happening over here!Sit down for this one.The almost 4 year old (random napper) is sleeping soundlyand the 1 year old (rock star napper) is having a screaming, whimpering, no nap fit!It's bizarro!!And I don't like it!!!!!!

True Confessions

2009-01-20T13:12:00.005-05:00

"Hi, my name is Debby and I pick trash."I'm not a super obsessed trash picker. I just find things, every now and then, that I can't pass up....enter my newest find. And boy was she a F.I.N.D!!!Here she is as I found her: (minus a small amount of snow on top!)It was a little vanity in it's previous life. It had a mirror attached, but was needing some help anyway.I just love the style and the cute

My 2 (most recent) favorite pix

2009-01-19T16:09:00.002-05:00

Fun Giveaway

2009-01-16T22:45:00.000-05:00

There's a fun giveaway going on here.Check it out!!

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY!!!

2009-01-08T14:32:00.003-05:00

Today is Gwyneth's 1st birthday!What an awesome God we have!!!She's a little miracle baby!!{Check out here story here}Happy Birthday!(I took pictures this morning of the boys wishing Gwyneth a happy birthday, but I'm really not feeling well so I'll add them later.)

Sammy and Caleb Say

2009-01-07T09:45:00.003-05:00

This is Caleb's first edition of Caleb says (and fitting of a 2nd child he has to share it with his brother - poor child is gonna need some serious therapy some day!!)Sammy: "Run, Caleb! Run from your life!!!" (don't we all have days like that?!)Caleb: "Goooooooooooooooooooooaaaaaaaaal! (Can you tell he's been watching too much Soccer with his obsessed Daddy?)Caleb: "Uhguuuuuhs!" (translation:

The little things that are making me happy today

2009-01-07T09:37:00.003-05:00

{Whoever "they" are, they were right when they said 'simple things for simple minds'!!}1. The boys slept in until 8:35 today! Yipeee!2. I am down 3 lbs in 2 days (granted the first weigh was in the afternoon and this one in the morning, but just let me celebrate, ok?! I'm stoked!!)3. I had chicken and black beans cooking before 9am! I'm having such a hard time thinking of good things to eat, but

Sammy Says

2009-01-03T20:39:00.002-05:00

While driving down a street with lots of trees on a sunny day:"Mommy, the sun keeps trying to take my picture!"{you know when the sun seems to 'flash' at you between the trees as you drive?}"Mommy, the moon is broken!"{it was a half moon, but he was very concerned!}"Who's making all of that racket?!"{He had just gone to bed and I was using the blender and Daddy was using a cordless drill}

The TRUE Christmas Story

2008-12-25T00:00:00.002-05:00

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.John 3:16Merry Christmas!!

Nap time Creative Singing

2008-12-22T14:22:00.002-05:00

This apparently is a no-nap day for Sammy. He's in his room singing and cracking me up!He's making up his own words to the tune of "London Bridges"It goes something like this:"We are brothers all day long,all day long,all day long.We are brothers all day long,my dear Caleb"Bridge: (i think, but I don't know anything about music and obviously neither does he!)"yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes....

Jehovah Jireh

2008-12-21T22:02:00.003-05:00

Jehovah Jireh: The LORD Will Provide.God is so good to us!We don't deserve all of the blessings He gives us!It's so awesome to be a part of God's family that I can't wait to get to heaven!It's gonna be so awesome!!!

Sammy Says Part 2 and grievances

2008-12-17T12:51:00.002-05:00

Sammy: "Mommy, when I grow up to be a girl I want to drink that tea"Me: "Buddy, you will always be a boy. Boys are boys and girls are girls. You'll never be a girl" (intentionally shield him from the fact that some people in this world don't accept this concept!)S: "oh. But one day the magic star is going to turn me into a girl. When I go out at night it will turn me into a girl and I can drink

Sammy Says

2008-12-17T09:59:00.005-05:00

"Mama, I want toast, but with nothing on it.And not toasted"That, my son, we call bread!While eating breakfast sausage that he wasn't liking he shuddered and I asked what was the matter."It's so shivery! This sausage is very shivery!"

Hooray for Cheap Family Traditions!

2008-12-15T11:02:00.005-05:00

This is the second year of our Christmas Trip to Philly Family Tradition (kind of a mouthful!) =)It doesn't get better than a fun CHEAP family day that kids and parents enjoy!We spent a whopping $9.90 for the day! 50 cents for a pretzel and the rest for the speedline tickets.The boys loved it even though it was colder than an Eskimo's nose.First we went to Macy's and walked through Dicken's

Waiting...

2008-12-13T18:02:00.002-05:00

"Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him..."Psalm 37:7aI seriously am trying! Lord, I'm trying to wait patiently for You and in the process I'm learning that I'm not only very impatient, but I also have a hard time not stepping in and trying to handle it myself.

I have a dream...

2008-12-08T15:24:00.003-05:00

...actually lots of them, but this is one that I keep coming back to because it just sounds so fun to me!I really want to cater small parties like baby showers, wedding showers, birthday parties, etc. Maybe cater isn't even really the right word because I don't really want to be involved in all the other stuff.I just want to make little yummys. I love making little appetizers and pastries/

Poor Misled Child

2008-12-08T13:58:00.002-05:00

I like the Veggie Tales. I think they can be cute and silly. But they're misleading my child. Poor Sammy thinks that there was really a worm (caterpillar!) named Carlisle with Jonah and that he must have disobeyed God too because he was also swallowed by the whale. (yes, I think it was a whale, not a big fish. No nasty letters, please)

Dinner Party Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

2008-12-06T22:31:00.000-05:00

Here's a fun giveaway I found on Shelly's blog.A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E!!!!And since I don't think my boys would look too good in it, if I win, Shelly will get it! =)Dinner Party Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

Christmas Shopping

2008-12-06T14:23:00.003-05:00

I just made another Christmas gift purchase and I'm so excited! I got it on ebay and hope it's here in time! So fun!! Sammy's gonna love it!!I'm getting so excited for Christmas!It seems like every year is more exciting than the last!This year having 2 who can really enjoy it will be a blast!What's even better is Grammy is coming tonight to watch the boys so Daddy and I can go do some more

2008-11-27T08:43:00.000-05:00

HAPPY TURKEY DAY!!!!

Napkin Rings Tutorial

2008-11-24T14:58:00.005-05:00

Because I'm feeling like a dork and am telling myself I have nothing better to do I thought I'd share the napkin rings I made for our Thanksgiving dinner. If you will be at our Thanksgiving dinner please kindly pretend you never saw these little cuties and upon seeing them on the table on Thursday act shocked and amazed at them and most importantly forgive this horrid run-on sentence!Here we go:

Oh the Joy of a Good (Thrift Store) Deal!! and a heartfelt confession!!

2008-11-22T11:31:00.004-05:00

I HUMBLY CONFESS TO YOU: I'm addicted to Tweaking!!!I just can't leave anything alone!I've already made changes to my cheapy fall decorations. It's not a huge difference, but I'm even happier with them now than I was before.The boys and I (the boys were reluctant companions on this trip!!) went to the thrift store today and found these little beauties. They're cute little wine glasses with a nice

Fun Fryday Contest (a day late!)

2008-11-22T08:39:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite blogs is hosting a contest. I've been following MckMama's blog for a while now and praying for their family during good and bad times that they've experienced recently.Anyway, she's hosting a contest and this here is my fancy shmancy entry! =)** Click on this sentence to go to MckMama's blog **

Hooray for 80% off End of Season Sales!!!!

2008-11-14T14:00:00.005-05:00

I've never had any fall decorations and have always said that when I find good prices I need to slowly build up my collection. I love decorating my house for every season, but that normally just means a few vinyl clings on the front door!Autumn will never be the same in our house and I'm so glad!! It all started at the Christmas Tree Shop. Hallelujah and God bless the amazing person (had to have

Warm Heart, Warm Cheeks

2008-11-02T20:06:00.003-05:00

My heart is warmed because of our sweet Caleb. He said "I love you" for the first time tonight. I said it to him and he replied "Ah woo woo!" Made my heart sing! =)My cheeks are warm because of Sammy. I seriously had tears running down them I was laughing so hard. He was praying at bed time and said his normal "Dear Jesus, thank you for this day. Thank you for Mommy and Daddy and Caleb. Thank you

WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS!!!!

2008-10-29T22:07:00.002-04:00

The Fightin' Phils have won the WORLD SERIES!!!!! GO PHILLY!!!!

Proof that I live in a house with too much testosterone!

2008-10-27T16:08:00.001-04:00

The longer he sits, the messier he gits

2008-10-27T15:56:00.003-04:00

Caleb is such a good baby.95% of the time he can sit in his highchair for an hour and be happy as can be. Long after he's done eating he'll just sit (sucking his thumb and twirling his hair, of course) watching what's going on around him......the other 5% of the time he gets messier and messier the longer he's there.And this is the result.......leading to this shortly thereafter!

Fireman Sammy

2008-10-25T14:40:00.008-04:00

(never actually watched this show, but it sure looks cute!)Sammy absolutely LOVED the fire truck that came to preschool the other day! So much so that he climbed so high on the ladder that his teacher could no longer reach him and a taller woman had to help him down. And, while in the driver's seat he managed to step on the brake causing the (hydraulic?) brake to make that "pooff" noise and the

“Anticipate the difficult by managing the easy”

2008-10-22T15:25:00.003-04:00

**Title compliments of Chinese Philosopher Lao Tzu.**I was planning on making Pork Fried Rice last night for dinner. I knew I didn't have any sprouts in the fridge (who am I kidding? I NEVER have sprouts in the fridge!) but what I didn't realize was that I was out of eggs! DRAT! (I should have realized since I had used the last ones in the morning for breakfast, but to admit that would be a blow

New camera pictures at the park

2008-10-21T15:02:00.009-04:00

New Camera/Wonderful Husband!

2008-10-21T14:49:00.004-04:00

My amazing husband is so sneaky and totally awesome!!!! We have mentioned in the past how nice it would be to have a better camera. Ours is 8 years old and just a simple "point and shoot" digital something or other. Not a bad camera, but not great and it often made me sad that our boys' young years were not being well documented since the camera took mediocre pictures and was slower than my

Shock and Awe!!!

2008-10-21T14:42:00.003-04:00

So apparently not all mortgage company's are completely corrupt these days. I know you don't believe me. I wouldn't have before today either. But we just got a refund check in the mail from our previous mortgage company because after their audit they found that we had been overcharged for something. It's a substantial little check too! Sweeet! It makes my heart sing to get unexpected money! I

Bringing up Boys

What I've been up to. by Matias

Birthdays

School is IN!!

Don't Worry

Tomorrow! Tomorrow! I love ya Tomorrow!

Swooning over Baby Items!

'Tis the Season

This I love...

So thankful...

Ode to a great summer!

What I've learned the last few days...

If I had a couple hundred dollars....

I'm tryin'!

Back in the Saddle Again!

I am...

It's a beautiful day!

Someone please....

5!!!!

Ode to Bargains!

Squeeeealing!!!! =)

Merry Christmas!!

I would like to thank all of the people who made this post possible...

Grateful...

Resigned to Reality...

All I want for Christmas...

The Cat in the Hat and his cronies (i.e. Thing 1 and Thing 2)

Brotherly Love (Why can't every minute of every day be like this?!)

My Design Style

Welcome FALL!!

WARNING: Long Post!!

My 1st DIY Day!! =)

The definition of a frustrating morning: (In which I hang my head in utter shame!!!)

Life with boys

Maine! It's in my blood!

Too cute!!

Why CAN'T money grow on trees?!?!

Another giveaway! =)

Ode to My Herbs...

Sweeeeeet!!

NOT a John Denver fan, but he's stuck in my head today!!!

My 10 favorite things about Spring...

Sammy Says

It's Friday but Sunday is Coming!!!

We're beyond excited!!!!

Please pray for Santiago!

Who doesn't love a deal?!

Thankful Thursday

Let's pray for Little Miss Hannah

Caleb Says

Sammy **Sings**

Thankful Thursday

True Indeed!

I'm so excited!!

GRRRRRRR!!!!!

Hopefully she'll still remember me when she's famous!!

Say what?!

Silly Sammy Strikes [Again!]

Looks like someone's been watching a little too much of this...

A girl can dream

All about the man I love!

Not Me! Monday

Since I'm a copycat..

Sammy Says

Dummy

Do you see what I see?

Freaky Wednesday

True Confessions

My 2 (most recent) favorite pix

Fun Giveaway

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY!!!

Sammy and Caleb Say

The little things that are making me happy today

Sammy Says

The TRUE Christmas Story

Nap time Creative Singing

Jehovah Jireh

Sammy Says Part 2 and grievances

Sammy Says

Hooray for Cheap Family Traditions!

Sammy Sings

Fireman Sammy