Southern Nest

save the date!

2010-11-27T22:01:00.002-05:00

win!

2010-03-30T16:24:00.000-04:00

Win an “Apples to Oranges Packaging Set” from Paperie Boutique & HB Photo Packaging / h-bphoto.com – visit paperieboutique.com for more!

It's been a while

2010-01-06T22:20:00.005-05:00

yes, indeed, it has been a while!
I have been a naughty blogger...
But I am hoping to improve my frequency this year ;)
How about a couple of images from this past Fall...

Happy New Year!

The Deans

2009-07-22T13:01:00.004-04:00

Super cute family with a boy and a girl…the mommy says that one is her “dominant” gene baby and one is her “recessive” gene baby…you can see why!
They are both adorable though…

baby Sawyer

2009-07-21T22:55:00.005-04:00

There's a new Collins in the family! Baby Sawyer joined my brother-in-law and sister-in-law's brood a couple of weeks ago. What a sweetie he is! So tiny!

happy 1st

2009-06-25T16:42:00.004-04:00

Happy First Birthday Emaline!

Little Sluggers

2009-06-17T23:45:00.004-04:00

The handsome Marello boys! What a sweet family - and so fun to photograph!
here are just a few...

disney

2009-03-29T08:04:00.007-04:00

we are back from Disney-the kiddo's has a blast (big and small kids that is ;) )

Happy Valentines Day :)

2009-02-14T00:05:00.004-05:00

Wishing you all a super Sweet Valentines Day!!

almost mr. and mrs.

2009-02-02T12:05:00.006-05:00

the wedding date is quickly approaching and these two love birds couldn't be more thrilled!

Love

2009-01-30T18:29:00.004-05:00

I am blogging less...BUT staying busy!!
Yesterday I had the opportunity to photograph a mommy-to-be. Brooke is a stunning young lady- and so photogenic. Thank you for letting me capture this precious time in your life through photography.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-18T09:40:00.006-05:00

I apologize for the months away...my how time does zip by when you are busy!
Hope you all have a very merry Christmas season!

Here are a few from the past couple of months...

Moritz

2008-11-09T09:25:00.005-05:00

Such a beautiful Family!! Thank you Angie, for letting me capture these moments for you!

Baby Belly

2008-10-17T21:43:00.005-04:00

Had the joy of photographing this cute mommy and belly today! The photographs are a surprise for the expectant daddy...so once dad gets his gift maybe I'll come back and share more from this fun session.

Bakers

2008-10-09T15:19:00.004-04:00

Just a few from the Baker family that were taken last weekend ;)

week of girls

2008-09-30T07:11:00.007-04:00

Had all little girls this week!
Girls are so fun...so many personalities! So fun to photograph.
1st session was the Norris sisters- just beautiful young ladies.

16 years

2008-09-20T20:03:00.007-04:00

Our dear friends Ren and Nicole have a 16 year old now! What a blessing this fella is. He's funny, and so smart... and generous...super kind and handsome~ Happy Birthday Tre!

2 years old

2008-09-08T10:55:00.006-04:00

Some shots from Anabelle's 2 Year Old session. What a sweetie she is!

Been Tagged

2008-09-07T14:54:00.002-04:00

Look who's been tagged!!!
Jamie and Wendy at POPIN have tagged me...Here are the rules:
1. Link back to the person who tagged you
2. Mention the rules on your blog
3. Tell about 6 unspectacular quirks of yours
4. Tag 5 bloggers by linking to them
5. Leave a comment on each of the tagged bloggers blogs letting them know they've been tagged.

Here's my list of unspectacular quirks :
1. I enjoy aerobics...but don't like to run or sweat....
2. I only take hot showers in the morning and cold showers at night (yep, two a day)
3. I enjoy going to the beach...but am scared of the ocean
4. I own over 140 different kinds of stationary...yep, writing papers, folded note cards, flat cards, you name it. It is an addiction.
5. I snore when I'm pregnant (nope, not snoring these days!)
6. I drink coffee at least 3 times a day...morning, afternoon, and evening

Now, I will tag the following fabulous people:
1. Tracy
2. Sally Lynn
3. Courtney
4. Jennifer
5. Melody

Fun Fun Fun!

wee one

2008-09-06T14:42:00.004-04:00

Sweet Baby J...12 days old...so precious

Site Launch!

2008-08-27T15:27:00.004-04:00

Thank you to so many of you who inspired me...to get back into photography (Wendy), who always encourage my creativity (Jamie), who constantly excite my mind for beautiful things (Jamie), who serve on the sidelines as my cheerleader (Nicole), who always have a kind word to share (Tracy), and who pray for me fervently (Ashley-aka the best husband ever)...okay enough of the Oscar speech! ha!
Thank you!!

http://www.jeaniecollinsphotography.com/

Mark Your Calendars!

2008-08-10T22:42:00.004-04:00

Join me for a SMOCKED and APPLIQUED Clothing Clearance Sale from the company

"Two Friends"

http://shoptwofriends.com/

Bishops, Backwraps, A-line dresses, Jon Jons, Bathing Suits, Polo Shirts, Shorts, Capri Sets and More!

Everything will be $30 or less! And everything is Cash and Carry!

VISA/Mastercard/Cash accepted

Sara with Peas and Karrots will be on site with Made-to-Match bows!http://www.peasandkarrots.com/

Dates for shopping will be
FRIDAY, September 5th 10am-12noon

Saturday, September 6th 10am-12noon
***You may begin lining up at 9:45am on Friday and 8:45am on Saturday. No earlier please. Only 20 ladies at a time will be allowed to shop. We will move the line as quickly as possible.***Supervised Children are welcome- in a stroller only.This is for your childs safety!

RSVP for Gate Entry!!! JEANIECOLLINS1@COMCAST.NET

7987 Little Fox Lane

Jacksonville - 32256

Happy Birthday Donna!

2008-08-08T15:52:00.006-04:00

sweet stuff

2008-08-06T11:28:00.003-04:00

Photographed triplets yesterday--oh if I had that energy! As soon as we sat them down they went in 3 different directions! HA!
2 boys and a girl...and Miss C was so sweet I wanted to share at least one picture.
More to come...

Happy Friday

2008-08-01T09:45:00.005-04:00

Christmas in July

2008-07-18T21:52:00.005-04:00

Took my friend Jamie to Savannah this week while I did some taping for a Paula Deen Christmas Special. A Christmas Cookie Exchange. It was a great time- and we met lots of very interesting people! The Follow Productions staff was super gracious and we were so appreciative during those long days of taping and waiting and waiting some more!
(Of course Savannah was beautiful as always and the shopping was fun during our free time!)
You can look for the special to air starting right after thanksgiving--thru Christmas on the Food Network.

The kitchen

With David--Jamie is a huge fan and I could see why! He was just as sweet as could be!

Jamie and I with Paula

Happy Birthday America!

2008-07-04T11:43:00.005-04:00

Thank you to all of you who have served our country and protected our freedom!

Many Thanks

2008-07-01T16:24:00.009-04:00

Thanks to all who came to celebrate Rowan's 4th birthday this weekend! And a special thanks to Wendy who was my official photographer! Kudos!!

Catie

2008-06-24T21:30:00.006-04:00

Cara, thank you for letting me take a few pictures of your sweet angel! She is just beautiful.

Fathers

2008-06-19T13:13:00.004-04:00

Hope you all had a wonderful Father's Day Weekend. Thank you to all you dad's out there for all that you do!

big bows

2008-06-17T17:37:00.002-04:00

is it a southern thing?? big bows, that is. You can scarcely enter a children’s boutique in the south without seeing a child in a gianormous hair bow. And I am a guilty momma for sure. I love em! HG has had a bow in her hair since she was 30 minutes old! And as she gets bigger…so do they. When she was a toddler, she had “night-night bows”- literally hair bows that were soft that matched her pajamas. Crazy- I know! This week she asked to wear a head band….hmm…errr…sounds like she is trying to grow up. Hm.
But for now, how about a bow.

cousins

2008-06-15T20:07:00.003-04:00

fountain

2008-06-13T15:25:00.002-04:00

there are neat little parks and gardens in our neighborhood. they can make things fun and whimsical on hot summer days. HG loves the fountains! it was pretty bright out this morning, so the lighting wasnt great--but the fountains sure were cool!

Baby E

2008-06-12T18:10:00.002-04:00

Had the opportunity to photograph Baby E yesterday. She was so precious! Thank you Lori and Jud for letting me take these special pictures for you.

4 Years Old

2008-06-11T20:08:00.004-04:00

Happy 4th Birthday, my sweet boy! You make our lives an adventure!
Love, Mom and Dad

summer time

2008-06-09T21:49:00.002-04:00

newborn

2008-05-27T22:05:00.004-04:00

beach

2008-05-15T08:20:00.001-04:00

This is from our trip to Daytona a few weeks ago. Love it beacuse it SO shows Rowan's personality. Just in his own little world!

nyc

2008-05-13T17:51:00.004-04:00

just spent a fun filled 3 days in the Big Apple! The weather was a tad soggy, but we put on our walkin shoes and hit the ground running! Catching a Starbucks every few hours kept us happy and we were able to shop and eat our way through the city.
took lots of pictures...but this one kind of sums up our trip. the joke was that it was "Chloe's tour of nyc" because all the pics have Chloe (our 13 yr old traveler) in them! here she looks very ny with her jackie-o glasses, starbucks and a pretzel.

returned from nyc and had a wonderful mother's day celebration with the family!
so blessed to have 2 healthy and happy children. they really do make this life so wonderful!

beachy

2008-04-30T15:01:00.004-04:00

Just returned from our mini-getaway. A little time at the beach with sweet friends.

Happy Birthday Luke!

2008-04-26T22:13:00.006-04:00

My sweet friend, Vanessa has a baby named Luke. He is such a miracle (all children are of course!). Vanessa went thru endless drama with fertility treatments before getting pregnant with her twin boys...and then a few years later...SUPRISE!...Along came Luke!
He is such a muffin! So sweet and happy and snuggly! Love him to bits.
And today we celebrated his 1st birthday!

The pictures are a little out of order...only b/c smooshed cake pictures are my fav and I wanted it to be 1st!

Momma getting him ready in his birthday hat...

so handsome

blow out that candle!

sweet boy

and playing together are HG and her friend Ella. They decided to enjoy their birthday cake in this little play phone booth. Pretty cute!

sugar and spice and everything nice

2008-04-21T16:48:00.002-04:00

Isn't that what Little Girls are made of??

Well, ask Sandra...she should know! She (and her husband :) ) just adopted 2 little girls...making their grand total- FIVE daughters! Wow-weee! Go Sandra!

My friend, Jill, and I gave a shower in her honor this weekend. Oh- boy (or should I say "girl") did she deserve it!
Love you my friend!

Lover-ly Weekend :)

2008-04-14T19:18:00.010-04:00

The weather was beautiful, the house was cozy and the friendship entertaining! Oh yes, and I did some scrapbooking ;) --wink, wink!
Had a great time ladies! Looking forward to the fall.

count down

2008-04-06T23:02:00.002-04:00

So only a few short days...4 1/2 to be exact...until I leave for 3 fun filled days of cropping in St Augustine!! Twice a year a dozen or so girls and I rent a house somewhere fun, hunker down with enough snacks and cropping supplies to make it 60 hrs, pack our pj's and spend a whole weekend cropping! It is great. Can't wait to get caught up on some pictures for sure.

sorry to be a bummer

2008-04-05T10:57:00.001-04:00

howdy friends and family,
sorry to be a bummer--but I had to switch my comments page to "registered users only". Which means no more anon. comments. Have to be registered. I was getting some meanie comments and not that I care one iota---but really, ugh- why ruin it for people?

Why do people have to be ugly?

Momma always said--if you can't say somethin' nice don't say anything at all.

So, here's to happy comments :)

Thanks for understanding

AND The Birthday post winner is...

2008-04-03T10:33:00.003-04:00

TRACY!

I had 10 ladies comment total--LOVED all your stories about your most memorable birthday's!! So great!! And I listed all the ladies who commented with a number next to them. Then had HG pick a number between 1 and 10...she pick 41. Hm...let's try this again. I said "okay, count to ten". She did. I said " now pick one of those numbers" She said "Three!"

And "3" was Tracy on my list!

Congrats Tracy!! Your package is a surprise...here is why.

I love giving surprise parties-LOVE to! (But I am not a fan of surprises for myself- go figure) And I have not had an event lately to throw a surprise party for! So here's a surprise for you! :)

I will post pictures of your goodies after you have them so that everyone can see.

oopsy

2008-04-02T09:48:00.001-04:00

Spring is here! Just a beautiful day here in North Florida! Now all I have to find is some purple flowers like this little girl has and I will be feelin' springy for sure!

I have finally gotten all of my comments for the past 2 months!!! Strange Strange. I don't know what happened. All of the sudden my inbox was loaded! So- a recap from the birthday in February. THANK YOU for all of your sweet well wishes!

The drawing will be done today!!!!!!!!
Honestly I never got a comment on the post--so I thought no one read it??! And then I get all of my comments TODAY! Odd-but I'll take it (wink!)

Good luck to you all!

recycle

2008-04-01T11:46:00.005-04:00

why do I buy my children a gazillion and 1 toys...and they would be just as happy recycling the ones they forgot about from last year?!

See truck as example "a". This thing hadn't been touched in months...until Rowan thought it was going to Goodwill. Then magically it became popular again. hmmmmm.

chair please

2008-03-30T15:26:00.003-04:00

Horchow has a neat new line...the "Old Hickory Tannery" Collection. Love it. All. yep Love it ALL! And this gal in particular is calling out to me...Robins Egg Blue Leather...tufted...with rubbed pewter nailheads...and artisan carved French cherry wood. Oh gees, pinch me!

buggin'

2008-03-27T23:49:00.005-04:00

Catching Bugs was the big hit today. HG was home with a fever...so we made it a p.j. day. Who says you can't hunt bugs in your p.j.'s??

ps- thanks to Wendy for some new skills!

yep

2008-03-20T10:48:00.003-04:00

Yep, it's been a while...sorry ;) This month has been crazy...and this is what Rowan thinks about it (see picture above!) tee hee

Here's to Spring! Really looking forward to lots of time at the beach and around the pool, hanging out with the kiddo's and new spring flowers!! whoo-hoo!

Celebrate

2008-02-21T09:10:00.008-05:00

In celebration of the big 3-0 some girlfriends and I went out for dinner on Tuesday. Cheesecake Factory...9 girls...presents and cheescake! What more could a gal want on her birthday!
Here are a few candids courtesy of Wendy. The lighting was rough and the pics are...well, lots of them looked like I was crying! tee hee. I wasn't. Apparently I make goofy faces when I am not payinga attention. And evidently sometimes when I AM paying attention.
Twas fun ladies!! Thank you!!!

Opening gifts

Being silly with my birthday plate...spelled "Jeeni" hmmmm

My most favorite pajamas! A gift from Jamie! Thank you!!

And the birthday bird below is from Jamie too! The "Darling Book For Girls" is from Wendy. Love it!

And from Jill, Donna and Monica this custom floral. So sweet of them!

Welcome to the 30's

2008-02-18T11:29:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to me! :) Yep...my 20's...are now a distant memory. Tee hee.

I have begun a new decade! Wow!

30 years ago today (or actually yesterday because of the time change) I came into this world via Bangkok, Thailand (my dad was in the peace corps). Now, half a globe away I have a life that I love. Great Family, friends and health! Thank you Jesus!

My 20's were very busy...I met the love of my life, graduated college, got married, built our 1st house, graduated with my graduate degree, worked as a PR director, left the job to have children, had a daughter, had a son, had a niece (save that story for another day if you don't already know), built our 2nd house, celebrated 7 anniversaries, and-whew! That just brushes the surface really.

So, in celebration of this fun day...drum roll...I am havin' a little giveaway!

So, just leave a comment telling me YOUR most memoriable birthday and I will have a drawing on Friday for a Birthday Surprise!

toodles!

Happy Valentines Day :)

2008-02-14T09:23:00.006-05:00

Brrr it is chilly this morning!! Doesn't this little gal look all bundled up and WARM!
So- this is one of the goodies I created for my sweet Secret Admirer swap (hosted by Jenn and Cheryl). My Valentine is Miss Cindy Bakeman!I hope my Valentine is happy with her sweet treats.

The 1st creation is this sugar coated white and pink house with a little girl (found her from SB in Kim Kwan's class!) standing outside. Used lots of German Glass Glitter and Mica here. Sparkle-Sparkle!

Then I thought a Valentines- LOVE- Theme canvas might be sweet. An 8x10 canvas with antique wallpaper glitter, old sheet music, some pom-pom's and more! So fun to create ;) I also included some chocolate treats. Happy Valentines Day to All!

Valentines Looooove!

2008-02-12T17:01:00.000-05:00

Hey now! Love is certainly in the air here!!! whe-hew!
Have had 2 wonderful swaps this month. The 1st is a little diddy between my Bella buddies: Miss Jamie Walker, Miss Wendy Updegraff, Miss Suzanne Duda, and Miss Jennifer Hayslip.
Jamie, Wendy and I made the pilgrimage to Silver Bella last fall and made instant pals in Suzanne and Jenn. They are just too creative for words...I am secretly hoping if I hang around them long enough, maybe a little of their creativity will rub off ;)
Well, our Things We Love swap was so fun! We had to make or buy 2 things. One thing that we loved and one thing our partner would love. And LUCKY ME my partner was Jenn Hayslip- Miss Twinkle Shabby Star herself ;) She sent me a scrumptious package of chocolate, red hots (they are not pictured because they are already in a "Sugar Hottie's" batch in the oven...recipe to come later), sparkle-glitter pink letters, a pink pearl heart, a lovely note AND--drum roll please... an orginal bunny box creation!!! Wow! Jenn, you are too much! Thank you!

And Miss Twinkle Shabby Star is also co-hosting the next swap I am in...My partner (secret admirer) sent me these goodies last week. WOW!

A rose soap on a rop, candles, chocolates, a cherub figurine, a pink candy dish, a ceramic cherub, a keepsake box, a picture frame, lots of beautiful prints for crafting, some more candies and a lovely heart ornament! OOOO-WEEE! Lucky me :)

Thank you so so so much, secret admirer. Can't wait to find out who you are ;)

find of the day

2008-02-05T13:22:00.000-05:00

Some posts on a blog should just be about nothing much at all. Many times I find myself posting about big events and what not-Today, not so much.

So, in my obsessive compulsive magazine reading...I have stumbled upon this gem today.

In an Anthropologie catalog...okay, so technically catalogs are not "reading"...but they sure are eye candy!

If I #1 had the nerve to put the holes in tea cups and saucers that it would take to construct it

#2 had somewhere to put it, I would SO attempt making one of these "fountains".

But for now...it sure is fun to look at :)

"crazy busy chicken head" kind of weekend

2008-02-04T08:08:00.000-05:00

So, HG says yesterday " wow mommy! we have had a crazy busy chicken head kind of day". (I think she meant something along the lines of running around like a chicken with its head cut off)
After I finished guffawing, I couldn't have agreed more!! ha ha!!

The baby shower for Meredith was so sweet. I filled a basket full of individually wrapped goodies from POPIN (shocker, right?!) and they were all a hit! So much that one of the attendees followed me back to Wendy and Jamie's shop to buy a little something for her tot. She was instantly in love with their store!
Ahhh- I love match making! Heee!
Here is the Ultimate Receiving Blanket that was in the gift-o-rama basket...and there were matching burp clothes with pink and brown gingham ribbon...and a super neat chenille and cotton bib that had a paci holder on it!, and a beautiful bubble with matching socks...and a white smocked bishop. OH babies are so fun to shop for. Can't wait to see sweet Mia in a few shorts weeks. Please keep Meredith and her husband, Dave, in your prayers.

sweets for some sweeties and "Mer" no reading today!!!

2008-01-31T12:05:00.000-05:00

Next month I will be co-hosting a baby shower for my sweet friend Jennifer. She is have baby #2...a girl...another girl. Pink is so great! She and her husband are thrilled to be adding to their clan. This was the cake that I had done for her 1st baby shower (with girl #1, Aubrey).
My husband and Jenn's husband work together...they are home builders. So we did a little "Miss Construction" theme. It was cute...look at those little fondant tools! And OH YEA, the cake was yum-o!
(ignore the glimpse of my baker's feet in the picture!! ha!!)

And my swap package came in this week!!!! Here is a hint of what all was inside. LOTS and lot's of goodies...this one is so interesting it HAD to be shared...

AND- did some shopping today for baby Mia. She is due to arrive later this month. Somewhere around Feb 22nd. (I am hoping for the 18th so that we can share a birthday!)
A shower is being given for her mommy, Meredith, this weekend. Of course I had to stop by POPIN for gifts...here is one of them...hope Mer's not reading!!!!
If you have a baby, are going to have a baby, or know someone who is- you HAVE to have a pack of these Trumpettes! LOVE THEM! (Wendy, do they make it in ladies size 8 1/2????) tee hee.

What's happenin'

2008-01-29T10:46:00.000-05:00

Around here life is good. Calm today. I am so thankful for my family.
This week was rough for the Hostetters. I just cannot imagine their pain. Tomorrow they will celebrate the life of their sweet baby with a service at the church.
Please continue to keep this precious family in your prayers.

One a different note...Hayden Grace is becoming more opinionated about her wardrobe lately. She insists on all of the warm weather outfits...hellooooooo, it is 50 degress outside! This top from POPIN is one of her favorites...I might have to hide it until the temp gets over 70 deg. Gees.

Finished all of my swap goodies for Jenn and Cheryl's secret admirer swap!! Mailing everything tomorrow. I hope my partner really enjoy's her treats :)

please pray for the Hostetters

2008-01-27T22:00:00.000-05:00

Please pray for the Hostetter Family tonight.
For a daddy who has had his 3rd precious son go to be with Jesus.
For a mommy who enjoyed nearly 56 sweet days with her 3rd miracle baby.
For 2 big brothers that will always be in love with their Tristan.
And for countless family members and friends whose hearts have stirred because of God's work through this wonderful little boy...
John 11:4
... This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified thereby.

Then and now...

2008-01-25T17:46:00.000-05:00

Hayden Grace was our precious 1st. She constantly had us in stitches!! Looking back, she has the same contagious smile as always!
Psalm 127:3
Behold, Children are a blessing from the Lord :)

7 months old
5 years old

And I love this picture...this is SOOOO her personality (was and IS) . Ignoring the boys who are trying to smooch her. tee hee

tonights prayer

2008-01-22T17:18:00.000-05:00

I was looking back at old pictures today...my babies are growing up so quickly!
This was a year ago. Rowan getting a haircut with a Lollipop to make him happy...
Candy=Happiness. He has his momma's ideology!
I thank Jesus every day for my children. In the past few years, I have made many friends who have experienced or are experiencing infertitility- or some other drama where they cannot have children. What a hard road. I just cannot imagine!
Tonight my prayers are with these friends specifically.
I pray that they know God has His best for them...whatever it may be.
Philippians 4: 6-7 "Do not be anxious for anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

loving the nest

2008-01-20T14:17:00.000-05:00

For the breakfast room this week...Always wanted a distressed red armoire with chicken wire doors---yippie!!!

And found a super neat black bookcase for the family room. Distressed and has these glass doors that slide side to side. Lot's of great storage. What in the world am I going to put in these...hm

I do have to say that I love our home. It is a place where I cherish family game night and Sunday dinners. It makes me feel all warm inside when I see my kids in their pj's in the morning-running down the stairs for breakfast. It is our little nest.
I am a stay at home momma, so I think the nest is extra special. It is my "office" and my playground :) And decorating this playground is fun fun fun.

around here

2008-01-18T18:28:00.000-05:00

all of these after Christmas sales are just too much for me. I can't focus! But I did manage to locate these little dandies for next year's decor. love em'

And a table runner for the dining room...simple and snazzy I think

AND Big Bertha! Yes, the actual name of this mirror is Bertha...and she is BIG- about 7 feet tall. So ya know. The name fits. This hugandus momma was a surprise from my Mother-In-Law. An early 30th birthday gift. She knows me all too well. Thanks MIL!

Alright, the kids are having a sleep over tonight, so have to go round em' up for bath time!

Nighty, Night!

neeeeext!

2008-01-16T13:07:00.001-05:00

Before I share more about Atlanta...A little about the lust for pillows. These needlepoint pillows (above) were just calling my name when I saw them...and I love the bird design. I had to have both. Think they are fab for the guest bedroom!

SO, Atlanta also brought new friends...Like these ladies (all shop owners) who Jamie, Wendy and I had the pleasure of meeting at dinner one night. Debbie Dusenberry organized a lovely dinner at the Pleasant Peasant - Thank you Debbie!- for us all to sit, eat, laugh and have a helpful Q&A. Here are a few of the ladies at the end of the night.

On our last day in Atlanta- we of course had the itch to see Suzanne again! She was sweet enough to meet us for an early dinner and a little shopping at C'est Moi. Hugs my friend!

And this little shop was a lovely find. Boxwood. Oooo- so many goodies inside!

the front room

some stone pieces

Jamie standing next to the piece that is next on my list to purchase~

That sums up Atlanta. Thank you Jamie and Wendy for a wonderful time!

and next on our adventure

2008-01-15T20:52:00.000-05:00

and next on our adventure in GA was Suzanne Duda's home.
Now, Jamie, Wendy and I are just SURE Suzanne is our sister from another mother! (guess I am too for that matter! Ha!) We met Suz at Silver Bella and we were instant buddies. I tell you, this friend is THE best story teller! She had us in stitches all night!
So--we went over for dinner and Suzanne made a wonderful spread of grilled chicken (courtesy of her Sou chef Christopher- such a cutie!) roasted potatoes and some green bean casserole goodness that was so yum! And for dessert...cupcakes of course! And pink - of course!
Ms Duda's home is lovely and cozy and makes you want to snuggled up with some coffee (we did actually!) and make a craft (which we also did!).

The 4 of us in Suzanne's front living room...technically I think she has 4 or 5 living rooms.
It was late and we had been traveling and been to market so we were tired!Suzanne's hospitality was so wonderful!

her new-old plates made a beautiful table! ...

cupcakes...

Suzanne and Christopher ...

Jamie crafting ...

how many college degrees does it take to figure out how to solder???

it would seem more than we have--b/c it was tough!

but wait!! Wendy figured it out...sort of...

ps. The dot, dot, dots in this posting are dedicated to Miss Duda herself. Love and Hugs :)

post one of 3!

2008-01-15T15:48:00.001-05:00

In an effort to keep my fingers from going COMPLETELY numb, I am dividing my next post into 3!
Jamie, Wendy, and I just returned from Atlanta and we had so much fun that the love needs to be spread out a little ;) (wink)
The girls had to get their shopping done for POPIN and I had to get shopping done for...well, me! :) Lot's more looking than purchasing- but isn't that the most fun?? The hunt!
On our way to Atlanta, we were invited to lunch and a home tour by Jenn Hayslip. We met this sugar sweet Bella last November in Omaha. She is a one of a kind super precious girlfriend! She posted some pictures that I don't have- so go take a peek. Thank you so much, Jenn, for having us into your home!

Jenn's master bedroom dresser

Grant and the puppies come to greet us at the door!

Jenn and her sweet children Grant and Vivi in Grant's room

Grant loves the ladies!

Lulu loves pink as much as her master!

One of the groupings in Vivian's nursery. A sweet heirloom dress with a creation by Jenny and Aaron!

A distant shot of Jenn with Jamie and Wendy in Vivi's nursery...I can't say enough about this room! Just lovely and dreamy!

A Sugarville creation in Vivi's room

One of Vivi's dressers with all kinds of goodies!

Jenn, myself and Jamie enjoying some girl time

and now I must go find a hot cup of tea...I shall return later for post number 2...and let me tell ya- it's a fun one ;')

A new year around our nest

2008-01-07T19:43:00.000-05:00

Well, a new year around here mean's FINALLY getting Christmas put away and moving on to new decor that get's us in the mood to anticipate Spring!
A few new florals I found this weekend are doing just that ;)
I just adore lovely flowers! Especially when I don't have to water them!!! lol!

Starting to get the dining table pretty...a few random candle sticks...an Amaryllis for the center... more to come...

A huge Amaryllis arrangement for the dining room's antique sideboard. This piece is about 3 feet wide by 4 ft tall! It is a big one!

And I can't believe I still have berries on this flowering Dogwood Tree outside our kitchen! Love it!

packing up

2007-12-30T10:51:00.000-05:00

Well we are packing up Christmas decor, but I wanted to post just a few pretty pictures today to farewell the Holiday I love so much!

The birdies that live in a nest on our banister...

Different Holiday ribbons...a full size of what I used them for is coming up...

Cheers to Jenn Hayslip! It's our GA tree ;) Go Dawgs!

Some silk Magnolia's on a foyer table.

Christmas Ribbon Topiary...Jamie and Wendy have me HOOKED! I am making one for every holiday now ;)

trying out a neat effect with my camera from Santa...one of the birdies on our tree

Hope you all are having a wonderful holiday season!

Enjoying a break. Well, kind of.

2007-12-27T16:29:00.000-05:00

Okay- well...not a momma break! What mom gets a break on "Christmas break" --helloooo, the kids are out of school and need 24/7 entertainment. Guess who the entertainment is. Yep. Me.

But I really do have great kids so my job aint all that bad ;) tee hee

Today we went to the zoo. Gorgeous weather.

Tomorrow...the park. And anything else I can dream up to keep these two busy.

Wish me luck!

Merry Christmas from the Collins

2007-12-24T21:17:00.000-05:00

My children are so filled with Christmas joy! It just warms my heart to hear my sweet Hayden recite ALL of Luke Chapter 2...and watch as Rowan helps me wrap a gift especially for his big sister. They are all I need for Christmas this year!

We took the kids to see Santa...Hayden is in LOVE...Rowan couldn't be less interested...and my sweet niece Anabelle was petrified. Oh well. To each his own. Santa didn't seem too insulted ;)

And we had a visit from my 3rd cousin...hm...is that right?? It is my Dad's cousin's (who I am actually closer to in age) daughter...3rd cousin sounds right :) Misha and TK- along with their adorable muffin Sinta live in L.A.
Anyway- Sinta is PRECIOUS!! And I am so glad I finally got to meet her. (and get LOTS of sweet snuggles from, I might add!) Misha took her to see Santa. So cute!

Wishing you the most Merry Christmas!

Jeanie

Merry Christmas "Month"

2007-12-12T20:56:00.000-05:00

In our family, Christmas is so much more than the day of December 25th. We LOVE the whole month! Each week we celebrate the anticipation of Jesus' birth with an advent lighting and some yummy snacks for the kids. Every night we say a special prayer about 1 more thing we are thankful for. And every evening we turn on all of our Christmas lights and enjoy being together as a family! So great!

Hope you Christmas "month" is wonderful!!!

Our Christmas Card photo shoot was...well..interesting :) But I think we got a few good pictures even with this goofy bunch of people I live with!

open houses and bubble baths...so much to be grateful for!

2007-12-09T22:19:00.000-05:00

Hi all~

My sweet friends, Wendy and Jamie, at POPIN had their big 3 yr anniversary last week!!! SO much fun! Here are the happy momma's of the boutique now!

and my new favorite nursery in their boutique....wowsa!

So, my babies are not babies anymore...so we don't get cutesy bath time pictures...UNTIL you fill the tub 3 feet deep with BUBBLES! Yee-ha!
HG loves em'!

And just a sweet picture of my precious 3. HG, Rowan and Ashley. I love them so much.

I am made especially thankful for them as I am reading the blog of friend Yvette Hostetter.

Yvette's mom and my mother-in-law are great friends and I had the pleasure of getting to know Yvette some during a ladies bible study/cooking class a few years ago.

The Hostetters have recently added a new little boy to their clan. Tristan Asher. He is precious and perfect! Just wonderful. When Yvette was pregnant with Tristan he was diagnosed with Trisomy 18. A diagnosis that had the family unsure Tristan would be born alive much less be able to come home from the hospital with his family! Well Tristan is 1 week old now! God is so good! Reading all that Yvette has been going through has made me hug my family super tight these days. Please keep this family in your prayers. All Glory to God.

she's 5

2007-12-08T19:54:00.000-05:00

yep. I am the mother of a 5 year old! wow...time has certainly zipped by!
My sweet HG is 5 and today she said, "mom, how about make-up"
Oh broooother!

Christmas Marshmallows and a few more trees please

2007-12-05T15:41:00.001-05:00

The party on the 30th was a success...yes, November 30th! And yes, a Christmas Party...at 1st I thought it was crazy to have a Christmas party that early---hellloooo Christmas is in December! But really, it was great! It forced me to get everything dolled up nice and early. Now we get to enjoy it for over a month! Whe-hew!
As promised...a few more tress...
This one is in our master bedroom. A simple alpine with white lights and green, brown, copper and plum ornaments.

This bronze poinsettia belongs to the tree in our foyer. An angel tree.

I still have 3 more trees to photograph. Promise I will share soon!

In the mean time enjoy these little squishy and fluffy treats. Made Homemade Peppermint Marshmallows this week--yum! If you are in the area tomorrow, you can ave a sample too! I will have some of these minty dandies at POPIN's Open House!

Hmm..Think I will go have another right this very second ;)

of course it is pink

2007-11-24T10:47:00.000-05:00

We started the madness that is "Christmas decorating" in our home over a week ago...after all we decided on multiple trees this year. So, I thought we ought to get going early if we were going to have everything up in time for our 1st get together- November 30th.
We are all up and rolling now--all 6 trees and garland galore.
Decided to let HG and Rowan have their own trees this year. They are covered in their own ornaments. Here are a few pictures of Hayden Grace's...of course it is pink.
Lot's more trees to photograph- I will post pictures soon :)

gotta have glitter...

and little feathered white birds...

and heels!

ta da!

questions...

2007-11-23T14:20:00.000-05:00

This week Hayden Grace says to me, "Mommy, why do we eat Turkey at Thanksgiving?" I explained a brief story of the Pilgrims/Indians...and she said, "Well didn't they know how to make Peanut Butter and Jelly"?
Hm...that is a good question. Guess this shows how much PBJ we eat. whoops.
She cracks me up.

And Mr Pouty face...rarely will he smile in a picture...so it's a good thing his pouts are cute!

Bella-Licious Time!

2007-11-13T16:37:00.000-05:00

So, you know how the old point-and-shoot camera is...but some of these pictures were just too cute because of the BELLA's in them!

Jamie, me and Wendy crammed in Sassy's VW-Bug while Kim drives us to our Mini-shoot! Thanks Kim! :)

Aww---now this one is when we were getting ready to spend our last few hours with Miss Suz herself... (okay, so my pics are not chronological)

AND--Yes, the too amazing and terribly talented Kim at Olive Juice and Co...her aprons really are the best!

Our group with Prima Bella Teresa and her so talent sister Sassy

Wendy, Ann and I in Sassy's class- makin' Naughty or Nice planners...

And THIS one...well, Jamie and I got the exact same thing to eat...and it was definitely photo worthy...this monstrosity of a plate of pasta from Spaghetti Works. Yum=o!

Our favorite new buddies Jenn and Suzanne :) - Hugs Ladies!!!

Bella this and Bella that,,,

2007-11-12T11:49:00.000-05:00

Oh my~ well, most of you were at the ever-so-exciting Silver Bella event this weekend so you KNOW how amazing it was!!!! Just can't say enough good things about it really!!! The classes, the wonderful instructors, the amazing antiquing, the exciting vendor night and OF COURSE the wonderful new friends~ especially my new sweet gals from Georgia!!! (Suzanne and Jenn were the best! Hugs!!!)

Wanted to show off a few of my favorite finds from the weekend...
This Winter Opera House from Raised in Cotton had me so gitty with all that glitter!!

and the mother load of the weekend was the VINTAGE JEWELS! Oh my! So many!!!
My favorite was this smoky quartz and turquoise treasure!!! aaaaaaaaa!!!

And the Baubles continue.....

Just had to sneak in another picture from the Winter Opera...this little gold chair---hm...I would like a life sized one for my master bedroom please!

and another too dreamy bauble!

and a final picture for the inside of the Opera House...

whew! I am all pictured out for now...
promise the best is yet to come---pictures of Bella's from our Bella-licious weekend!!!!!!!

fall frenzy

2007-10-29T18:05:00.000-04:00

whew- It has been a crazy few weeks! We were at Disney all last week...and the pumpkin patch the week before...and had to slip in a night for dinner at the beach...and prep for Silver Bella...and regular mom/wife stuff too! Wow-wee!
Life is so fun!
AND---Drum Roll Please...I am counting down the moments until Jamie, Wendy, Ann and I leave for Silver Bella~ :) It is sure to be just too good for words!

Here are a few pic's of what we have been up to~

The Fam at Disney

Hayden's finding shells after dinner

Pumpkin Patch...

And Stacie sent me a pic of Anabelle at the ol' Patch too :)

Fall is in the air!

2007-10-03T22:19:00.000-04:00

Ahh! Fall is in the air! Granted it has been a tad soggy here in Jacksonville for a week or so...but still I can feel some of that cold evening nip in the air. I l-o-v-e it!
Just everything about Fall is so fabulous...the pumpkins, the pie, the pumpkin pie! Tee Hee!
Here are a couple of pumpkin topiaries I whipped up last weekend. Something for my foyer :)
Happy Fall Y'all!

Shopping, Scrapping and Socializing...

2007-09-10T21:12:00.000-04:00

Okay now these might be some of my top 3 things to do! (with the exception of time with my family of course :) )
This weekend...well, week actually- as we left on Thursday and returned SUNDAY!-3 friends and I went to the Scrappers Dream Vacation at Disney. It was fabulous! A thousand women or so all scrapbooking together in a hugondus banquet room at Disney's Contemporary Resort. It was a blast! Lot's of gals went for the 24 hr cropping...but the 4 of us went for more of the sleep/shop/crop schedule. It was F-U-N!
Here are a few quick pics from the weekend.

face lift

2007-08-27T20:10:00.001-04:00

LOTS of stuff changing around the house!
I took ONE bedroom suit--an older set that was a hand me down from my in-laws--and made it stretch for 3 rooms!
They all use to be a vaniila glaze color--very 80's. But I love the frenchy-ness of them and could resist a make-over!
So, this high boy is now antiqued black with hot pink handles for HG's room...

(oooo- and I had to toss in this picture of the dresser that I scored at the antique market this week!!! the price was a steal!)

and back to the refinished stuff...this dresser is now a neat-o green and sits in our upstairs foyer...

and the guest bedroom has the newly covered black and white damask headboard and antiqued black nightstands with cream handles...

whew!!! I am tired just thinking about the work put into refinishing everything! Think I'll go have a bowl of ice cream and watch a movie :)

The New Do

2007-08-18T11:32:00.000-04:00

Hayden got her "big girl do' last week. 11 1/2 inches chopped off :) For Locks Of Love of course!
She is a princess! Loves her bows still...and glitter hair spray of course!
Rowan enjoyed spraying himself repeatedly with the water bottle...boys!
:) Have a Great Weekend!

It's bloomin' ribbon!

2007-08-02T14:17:00.000-04:00

Made these adorable Ribbon Topiaries at POPIN's MITI this month!! So fun! And I am thinking I need one for every season and holiday!!
Also, finally posting a picture of the bedcrown that I have made a "bookcase" crown in HG's dressing room. Did some easy black and white gingham panels behind it :)
The topiary will look so cute in this pink, black and white nook :)

family, fun and droopy drawers

2007-07-30T22:14:00.001-04:00

Well, this week we had family in to visit. Spent the week at the beach. It was a tad drizzly...but we were in our suits 90% of the time despite the threat of rain!
My sweet Rowan couldn't manage to keep his swim trunks up...poor fella has a momma that can't help but take a picture!!! LOL
Also, this is the 1st time that my grandfather has gotten a chance to meet Anabelle. Of course she giggled and clapped and put on a good show for him.
Family is SO precious! And I happen to just adore mine!!

Dinner at the Columbia Saturday night...

Aunt Maria helps Rowan with his droopy swim trunks...

Grandpa Toby meets Anabelle...

Mom and I with the kids on St. George Street...

a little getaway...

2007-07-17T14:47:00.000-04:00

This weekend my sweet husband surprised me with a weekend in Amelia Island for our 7 year Anniversary!
We stayed at the too wonderful Ash Street Inn B&B...he planned our massages, shopping in the historic district and dinner at Le Clois (super neat French place on the Island).
Ahhh! I am so relaxed!
The B&B was great--a super quaint room...and breakfast was this wonderful french toast bake! Yum-o!

The garden in front of the inn had the most beautiful flowers--smelled so great after the morning rain shower...

How cute is this Inn?? Seriously, you have to give her a try if you are ever in Amelia!

And our room was so relaxing!

repeats are so sweet

2007-07-13T17:15:00.001-04:00

Another TOO fab apron came in the mail from Amy this week!
If you haven't already, get on over to her etsy shop and make yourself a purchase. You will LOVE everything!!!

This weekend marks 7 years of blissful marriage for my sweetheart and I! Tomorrow we are heading on a weekend excursion...destination unknown for me. I LOVE surprises!!
I'll fill y'all in next week with details ;)

Angels among us

2007-07-11T13:38:00.000-04:00

Today is a super special day in our family. Our "littlest angel", Anabelle Faith, is 1 year old today! She is my niece...my sweet, precious niece!

Some of you may know of the journey it took to bring Anabelle to our family.

A super long story made short...

My wonderful, beautiful sister-in-law Stacie (my husbands brothers wife) was diagnosed in 2004 with CML--a blood disease and form of Leukemia. She was told that it could cause further life threatening problems with her medication if she attempted pregnancy. SO, without hesitation, I asked she and her husband if they would like my husband and I to carry their biological child for them. They jumped at the offer--and a year, IVF, and pregnancy later--here was Anabelle!

So, you see, Anabelle really is an angel! An angel sent to bring such joy to our entire family!

Happy 1st birthday precious girl!

Anabelle

The 5 of us on Anabelle's Birthday

Also, I want to let you all know about another angel. This sweet girl has been sent back to heaven recently after fighting a good fight with a long illness.

Her name is Brianna.

You can read about Brianna and her family here.

And there is an amazing auction taking place right now where you have an awesome opportunity to help this amazing family and treasure some beautiful art!

Happy Bidding!

mail time

2007-06-21T13:30:00.000-04:00

Who doesn't love fun mail???? Of course packages are the best!!! Right up there with hand written letters on pretty stationary ;)

Today I opened my postal box to find this WONDERFUL apron by Nana Co...I had ordered it and FORGOTTEN! What a fun surprise!! :)I just adore it.

Take a peak at her etsy shop...and if you find something you can't be without (and I am sure you will!) let her know I sent you. She has wonderful "play" sugar cookies (yum!) and great aprons that she can customize for you!!

Happy Thursday!

Happy Birthday to Rowan!

2007-06-13T18:13:00.000-04:00

My baby boy turned 3 years old this week.

In the spirit of celebration...and sweets...we made cupcakes!

These Sponge Cake Cupcakes with Peppermint Frosting, Dark chocolate shavings and a Junior Mint on top were WAY yummy :)

Happy Birthday my sweet little man!

Bella or Bust!

2007-06-03T08:46:00.000-04:00

Have you ever had that moment where you wanted to toss...no, make that SLAM your computer out of the window?? (perhaps you have had many such times) Well, I had a HUGONDUS such moment yesterday when I went to sign up for the much anticipated Silver Bella!
My girlfriends Wendy, Jamie and I have been waiting for the exact moment of "sign up" for weeks...I had the website up...directed my focus all morning to the anticipated page where the registration icon would appear... my finger positioned directly over the mouse...and DING DING DING it's 1pm (EST) and time to register. I CLICK AND...ugh, system lock-up!!!!!! You have got to be kidding me here!?!?!?! Needless to say--that was not the end of the 11 minute drama (that seemed like 11 hours). BUT--PTL I did get to sign up :) Hopefully I will be able to get into my choices for classes. But honestly--Who cares??? Not me! After all, I will be in the presence of BELLAS! :) All the classes look fantastic!
If you are going too- yippie! If you are thinking of going- sign up now! It is over 80% filled already. Really- It will be amazing!! :)

In other less dramatic news...Had this cutsey "H" made for Hayden Grace's bathroom. Just a fun, girly little touch of color. Um, did I mention that I LOVE color??

And her window treatment from the fabulous Mrs. Randall. Mrs. Randall is one of those amazing retired ladies that doesn't really act retired because she is busier than most working folks! And amazingly talented! Can sew anything that will stay still long enough. Just wanted a sweet, simple, billowy treatment in her bedroom. Trimmed with gigant-o black pom-poms. Thank you Mrs. Randall ~ Love it!

Just Beachy Keen, thank you!

2007-05-29T12:52:00.001-04:00

Hope you all had a great Memorial Day weekend. We sure did! Our traditional time at the beach--so great. And last night Hayden prayed for our "sole-ders and their knees" (aka "soldiers over seas"). So sweet.

God Bless the USA!

Hayden busy in the sand

Grandma and Anabelle giggling

Rowan is on a mission!

Pink and Brown and Fun all over

2007-05-12T12:51:00.000-04:00

What a whirlwind of a week! Whew! Hope all of you had a great one ;)
Got a fab package in the mail from Stephanie, my Pink and Brown swap partner from MN. Had SO many wonderful things...crafted papers, embellishments, french stamps (she's from France)

scrapbooking supplies, a huge chocolate bar, pink bath salts, pink stationary and on and on! She was a wonderful swap partner! :) Lucky me :)
Also, had a chance to go see little IV this week...his mom and dad are thinking they are going to call him Meyer for his nickname. (love that name!) He is too precious! Just sleeps and sleeps...and eats...and is adorable.

Haven't been crafting much lately. I am looking forward to summer fun soon. Means pool time, vacations, crafting and sleeping in! :)

I did have these way amazing banners made for Hayden and Rowan's room recently. Jeffrey did a wonderful job! Also, bought some great art this week for the house. I will post some pictures as

...soon as I get it on the wall.Hope you all have a great weekend!

Happy Mother's Day!

LLW IV

2007-05-09T17:50:00.000-04:00

A new baby is like nothing else in the whole wide world! This precious little guy is the new production of my dear friends Kristen and Chip. He is a 4th...his granddad is a junior and his dad is a III...and this little one is the IV. Leonard Lee Williams, IV...such a big name for a little guy. Although we all know he will quickly grow into it! (with a nick name yet to be determined) Oh- he is so sweet! Seriously one of the most adorable newborns I have ever seen.

Here's to Kristen and Chip! Congratulations!

Cupcake Mania

2007-05-07T22:02:00.000-04:00

One of my most favroite swapers sent me a package! This month held a wonderful Cupcake themed swap. (growl goes my stomach) And WOW! Did my partner ever go all out!!! She sent so many wonderful thing...a Cupcake party kit complete with papers, candles, toppers, frosting, dyes, and sprinkles. She also sent an altered art recipe book and 2 custom altered recipe compositions --one for adults and one with ONLY kids cupcakes! Too Cute! More recipe cards...and altered tags...and adorable glittery cupcake tags...and on and on! Ele Erickson you are too much! Many thanks!! HUG!

TAG! I'm it ;)

2007-05-03T08:53:00.000-04:00

The always creating Wendy (paperdreams) has tagged me and here are the rules…. each player starts with 7 random facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about their seven things, as well as these rules. At the end of your blog, you need to choose 7 people to get tagged and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them that they have been tagged and to read your blog! Here goes nothin' ;~) :

1. The clocks around my house are all set at different times (unless my husband gets ahold of them). They are all fast--some by 10 minutes, some by 15, and some by less. But I rememeber which are which and actually get places on time according to their craziness!
2. I like to refill on Toothpaste twice when brushing my teeth. Yes--I brush round #1 and then rinse my brush, re-apply toothpaste and go for round #2. Squeaky clean!
3. I, like Wendy in her weirdness (he he he), love to shop a "sale" as early as possible. Nearly any store...I like the elbow-shoving (not that I do any OF COURSE ;0 ) and the heart-racing anxiety of it all.
4. I love to eat...I mean really...alot. Just about any food in the whole wide world (no bugs please or pets). My sweet Tracy can atest to this. She has seen the damage ;)
5. Every morning I start my day with a cup of tea--Chai is my fav right now--some time in my journal or blog, and all in the peace and quiet of no kids or hubby.
6. I have given my husband pedicures since we have known each other! That's right--the man has not cut his own toe nails since 1998! I am obsessed with keeping them trimmed and it makes him nuts! Now, I don't like feet in general. But his and my toes are the HUGE exception.
7. I make a not-so-true 1st impression. This is what I am told anyway. Many people who meet me and then later get to know me have said that they didn't think I would at all be like I am...WHAT am I, I wonder?!?!?! LOL Hmm...maybe I need to work on my 1st impression (whatever that is)...or maybe hand out index cards with my bio on them to people I meet for the 1st time....Nahhh, I think I like being a little mysterious. :)

Now I am tagging Tracy, Holly, Deb, Carrie, Tena, and Tammy. You're it! :)

All Cozy

2007-05-01T12:38:00.000-04:00

Super fun swaps have been coming up at Swap Bot.

Thank you to Wendy for sharing this neat site. She was right. There are lots of great swaps. This month is a Mother's Day Tea swap. One of the requirements for the package is a handmade tea cozy. I found these WONDERFUL Heather Bailey fabrics at my favorite local quilt shop- The Olde Green Cupboard and crafted this little cozy. Decked out with coordinating fabrics and a sweet white satin ribbon closure. Sure to keep your tea warm and your tea pot happy ;)

Odds and Ends

2007-04-20T17:54:00.000-04:00

Spring cleaning is full throttle! Granted we haven't even been in this house 5 months...but I can always find SOMETHING to clean ;) Especially when it comes to sweet Hayden's closet. That poor, neglected, underprivilaged, sad child just has NO clothes (Yea- RIGHT!). She is a little fashionista! A hoot really. Loves her clothes and BOWS!
So, here is one of our fav's from last year. I am selling it on ebay ;) along with a few other clothes from my son and some odds and ends we need to part with around the house.

And...a sweet picture of my two with my niece Brianna. We took them to Marine Land last month. Always a fun time at the beach!:)

Buyin' a Hog & TaekwonDo!

2007-04-17T18:51:00.000-04:00

It has been an adventurous past few days!

Last weekend Ashley and I took the kids to the Clay County Fair. As far as fairs go - this one is first class! We make our yearly pilgrimage there every April. The food is yummy, the restrooms are clean and the rides...well, the majority look safe. But the best part is the livestock auction. Yep, hogs and steers. My kids love em'! Every year we go to the auction and buy a hog or steer from the FFA kids. Good cause and a fun time. Here are a few

pics of the kids enjoying the festivities.

This week also began Hayden Grace's journey in Taekwondo. She loves her kicks and punches. Who knew this Miss Priss would love "HA-YA!" so much!! LOL Today she received her 1st belt. A very proud moment :)