On Being Unsure

Some of my readers (shout out to all 5 of you!), probably know that both my husband and I are in the insurance business.  Specifically, we both work in Employee Benefits (health insurance).  And, unless you have been living under a rock somewhere, you know that a major health insurance reform bill was signed into law this week. 

This post is not to analyze the detriments or merits of the law, although (for non-employment issues) I was definitely against it.  This post is to ask you, my sweet readers, to pray for my family through what is sure to be a huge transition for us.  I am turning the decisions that my family will need to make in the next 12-24 months over to God.  I know He will take care of us - He always has.  But, my "Type A" personality makes this very difficult.  I like to control, micro-manage even. 

So, when you think of it, remember us and pray that I can let go. 

Or, to make me feel better, comment and tell me how changing careers was the best thing that ever happened to you! :)

Kisses, Kisses,

A Fabulous Easter Wreath

Lately I have been so darn busy - and with things I'm not really crazy about!  So, just to bring me back to where I should be during this season of Lent, here is a craft I wish I had time to make.  But, at least I can enjoy it here and think of the sacrifice He made for us.

Old Rugged Cross Wreath

You can find it at The Gaines Gang

Cute Custom Pattern Giveaway

Becca at Blue Cricket Design is giving away a fabulous pattern from Pink Fig Patterns. 

Check them out to join in the fun!

My Ride

In November of 2007, I had a 3 week old baby and was lying flat on my back in the hospital with blood clots in both lungs. 
I was 29 and not sure I'd see 30. 

But tomorrow, I'll be 32!

God bless you all, happy birthday to me

and Happy St. Patrick's Day!

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Life's journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well preserved body, but rather to slide in sideways, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, screaming "Woo Hoo! what a ride!"

~unknown~

Layla Grace

Like many of you, I followed the last few days of the precious life of two year old Layla Grace.  I felt so very connected because Layla Grace and AnnaLauren are only weeks apart in age.  If you are unfamiliar with her story, you can read it here.

I read about her death with both intense sadness and relief that she was being held in Jesus' arms instead of in pain.  Today, I found a post on Special Sauce in the House that articulated my feelings better than I ever could.  If you have children, or really even if you don't, you should read it.  Then go and hug those you love a little tighter.

Read here.

Be warned - you may get addicted...

Sometimes I feel like I am the most random blogger.  I mean, I post about the kids, I post about travel and then I post about decorating.  So readers, I guess the upside is that you never know what you are going to get.

So, to continue the tradition of randomness, why not a post about little girls custom clothes? 

Ok, so I have driven you crazy mentioned my two children once or twice.  Noah was born when I was 18, so honestly children's fashion was not of utmost importance.  Plus, I was employed in the accounting dept at the mecca of discount shopping - Wal-Mart.  You get one guess as to where the majority of his wardrobe was purchased - on clearance even!  Bless his heart, hope he doesn't think I don't love him! (2 negatives in one sentence - I am an awesome blogger)

But, the Princess arrived when I was the cultured and sophisticated age of 29.  It was like the perfect storm - a little girl, a mom who sits in front of a computer all day, sites called Etsy and Ebay and a little more expendable income.  I started out looking at Gymboree, Baby Gap and all the other staples.  But, one day as I clicked around Ebay, I found the dress and bowband below.  It was custom - what?  People actually still made clothes??  From then on, I was obsessed hooked.  My justification is this - soon enough AnnaLauren will choose to wear the newest Hannah Montana or something similar.  Until then, I get to do this!

FYI, Some of these clothes can be pretty cost prohibitive.  I am lucky enough to have a precious grandmother who makes some of AnnaLauren's things.  We also have scored a few deals on Ebay.  But, most come from Etsy - gotta support the momtrepreneurs!

Here are some of my favorites...some are scans so the quality isn't phenomenal.

The dress and bowband that started it all.  It was made by Cherry Tea. 

If anyone has a link, let me know as I can not find her online.

1st Halloween - another Ebay purchase

unknown maker - would love to give credit

Curious George Set - Ebay yet again

Same as above would love to give credit!

4th of July Outfit from Etsy

Fancy Pants

Awesome Grandmother Made Bo Peep Halloween Costume

Grandmother Made Christmas Outfit

Precious Valentine Wear and Mardi Gras Wear from Etsy

Lollipops N Sprinkles Boutique

Thanks for staying with me until the end...who knows what randomness will be next!!!

Sweet Dreams

Ok, so you know I'm a southern girl.  I dress my daughter in too much pink and green, I adore my huge front porch and Steel Magnolias makes me cry every time.  But, some things that are almost inherently southern are just not my glass of sweet tea.  I am not in love with anything toile, chippy painted, or too precious (read scalloped, lace, floral).  And, I like to think I have good taste.  But, oh my master bedroom!  It absolutely makes me ashamed.  We have been in our new house over a year and it is still lacking. Short Southern Momma has me dreaming of the way my bedroom could be with her My Style Monday.

This is my some of my bedroom furniture and bedding (but in our old house). Kind of meh and depressing. 

I also still have nothing over my bed - sad, I know!

Here are some of the things I dream of...

So beautiful and serene and ready to be ruined by my kids and pets!

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I love how this one looks masculine and posh at the same time.

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And I am really loving the small love seat in front of the bed. 

What a great place to snuggle and watch a movie! 

But, I kind of hate the rug and the dreaded slipcover.

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But honestly, this room could be toile from floor to ceiling and it would still be the best of all!!!

Who would care about bedding?

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Have fabulous day and maybe go buy an accessory!