Mumbo Jumbo

I'm Moving.... AGAIN!

2011-05-11T15:36:00.003-05:00

We're in the land of Minnesota and have made it through our first week.

Can I hear a halleluiah?

And now we're all sick.

Can I hear a booooooooo?

But really, we are fine. Not-feeling-well kind of fine. But at least we've got each other, right?

So, here's a quick update. In an effort to simplify my life, I'm condensing all my blogs down to one. That's right! You can catch me over at my new blog, Dose of Happy- which will be a mix of inspiration, and life and family posts. For the full story, read here. Please update your RSS feeds so we can keep in touch!

Love you all!!
xo

This Wind Ain't Got Nothin' On Me!

2011-03-23T15:27:00.004-05:00

Life is a complete whirlwind right now.

We found out we are moving to Minnesota about 6 weeks ago. In that amount of time we have listed our home, sold it and put in an offer on our new house. Let's just say things have been completely nuts around here. I'm certain we will look back and say, "now, just how did we get all that done?!" Because even in the midst of it all, I'm wondering the same thing myself.

To have listed and sold our house so quickly in this market is a huge deal. And a huge blessing. To have found a house that is reasonable and makes us happy is a huge deal. And a huge blessing. We know for sure we are supposed to be in Minnesota for some reason. One we can't pinpoint now, but it will be revealed in the next few years I'm sure.

The boys have been so good about all the adjustments along the way. Again, what a huge blessing. I'm here staying behind with the boys in Nebraska to tie up a few loose ends. The boys and I will hopefully make it to Minnesota in the next month or so to be with Casey again. Everything has happened so quickly, but we are ready to live life as a family again.

I will try to post when I can, but for the most current updates on the new home, move, etc, follow me over at Fresh Nest Design.

xo

Smiling & Enjoying It All

2011-02-19T23:26:00.000-06:00

This photo pretty much sums up my life right now....
A hungry baby, and a determined 3 year old.
And me trying my best to smile and enjoy it all.

{Thanks to The Leekers for capturing such a great photo}

Wow. Where has the time gone?
Porter is now 4 months. And would probably respond to the name Sir chubbs-alot.
We went to the doctor yesterday and he weighed in at 18lbs. 10 oz.
Let's just say don't take his food away. He might just start to do kung fu if you do.

A Happy Birthday to Caden!!! He is now 3!
We had a simple little birthday bash with his cousins and he loved every minute of it!
He added to his GeoTrax collection, and spent the entire night assembling the tracks, and "sharing" with his frey-ends (friends).

Caden has quite the imagination these days, and has started making up his own stories. Some of my recent favorites:

-I like wearing a belt these days (see above). Caden says, "Mom, why are you wearing a seat belt?"
-Playing with his helicopter guys: "Okay, guys, this is what we're going to do..."
-"Momma, you pushin' your luck."

I really love this stage that Caden is at. It seems like we are having a lot more fun these days- and our home is so much more creative. Yay for happy times!!

xo

Our Everyday

2011-01-14T15:46:00.004-06:00

I have a secret to tell you.
Porter is 3 months old.
Crazy, huh?

Another secret?
He weighs 17 lbs. {according to my scale at home}
Yeah. He likes milk.

He also likes it when you talk to him.
And snuggle.

And he loves the morning time.
He is often caught cooing bright and early in his crib.
Yes, he's the cutest thing ever.

{Actually, Caden ties him for that}

Random facts:

First rollover from tummy to back- 1/11/11
First cereal experience- 1/4/11 (we tried it to see if it would help him sleep. No luck, so he's off cereal for the time being)
Sleep- varies a lot. Some nights he's up 2-3-4-5 times. Last night he slept from 9pm-5am. We are trying our best to get him to sleep at night.

Hello 2011!

2011-01-02T21:40:00.004-06:00

Hello everyone! It's 2011 and I hope the year is off to a good start for you. I've had an amazing 3 months spending my time at home full time. And just this week, it's was back to work. And it feels pretty good. I'm only working two days a week and I think it's perfect. Though it's been hard to get back into the swing of things, it's been good to have a solid routine back.

As with every New Year, I like to set goals going forth. It helps me gain focus and perspective on my life. I also like to set goals I will complete. I never like looking back on the previous year not having completed one of my goals. Here are some of the goals I have this year:

In May, Casey and I will celebrate our 10 year anniversary. {seriously! Where has the time gone?!} I resolute that we will go somewhere awesome without the kids by the end of the year.
Last year, I vowed to workout more. Then surprise, surprise! I got pregnant. I sucked at working out. This is the year. Watch out world. We are setting up a mini gym in our basement and I want to work out 3-4 times per week.
Eat less meat. I want to explore a more balance diet by eating meat 3-4 times per week.
Keep things simple. I worked really hard to simplify last year, and I want to keep that theme in my life. I continually have to remind myself when asked to take on more whether I am able to, or not. And if it's really worth it. {Here's a secret... it's not worth it 9 out of 10 times}

Now that I have two kids, it seems like time moves faster than it ever did before. Has anyone else experienced this? It's a crazy thing to see my boys growing at rapid speeds. Porter is 3 months today, and next month, Caden will turn 3 years old. I love these little boys with all my heart. I hope the world slows down a little bit so we can enjoy the now.

It's a Magical Time

2010-12-28T12:50:00.002-06:00

This year, Caden had Santa all figured out. When we went to go see Santa, he asked for GeoTrax, a monkey and a new dog. He received one of those things Christmas morning, and it wasn't a monkey or a dog. Caden really made Christmas magical this year. The Christmas tree at home always had to be plugged in, and he was often seen ringing a bell while singing Jingle Bells.

I feel so blessed this time of year. Thank you so much for being a friend. I hope you had a Merry Christmas, and that 2010 ends well for you. See you next year!

xoxoxoxo

Until We Meet Again...

2010-12-15T10:48:00.000-06:00

Dear Grandpa Telford:
We miss you already. Though it's only been a day, we miss you too much. We're so lucky to have such great memories with you. As I thought about you today, I sat in amazement at what a good man you were. You gave your best each and everyday. The last time we came to visit you in June, you were not feeling well, but you got out of bed and came to sit and chat with us. You gave us your best that day. And more. You asked me how my parents were doing. You rode with us to the elevator to say goodbye.

You were always a gentleman and a scholar. I loved talking with you and hearing your advice. I loved your witty sense of humor, and how all your neighbors cheered up instantly when they saw you. Thank you for always giving us your best. May we all do the same and pass on your legacy. We love you!!

William James Telford 12/14/1913 - 12/14/2010

Radvent- 12/1 - Remembering

2010-12-01T22:50:00.004-06:00

One of my friends, Megan aka Princess Lasertron is giving writing prompts for the entire month of December and encouraging people to participate if they want to. Today's writing prompt is all about remembering. We were asked the following questions:

What were you doing five years ago today? As the holiday season began? Where were you? Who were you with? What did you want? What did you have?

Five years ago it was December 1, 2005. I'm not entirely sure what I was doing on this exact day, but I do know that things have changed a lot in the last five years. We were living in a small apartment in central Lincoln preparing for Casey to graduate college later that month. He had already secured a job with American Family, and I was working in commercial real estate. We were starting to look for houses and were excited to move on from apartment living. We were sick of our loud neighbors that seemed to play the same tracks over and over at very odd hours- 2 in the afternoon, 3 in the morning, 9 in the morning. It was very strange.

We were runners and loved living near several bike trails and being able to hop on any trail and run quite a distance. It was later this month I decided to run the half marathon in May. Oh, how I miss all the running and being able to clear my mind.

It was just the two of us. No children, no dog, not even a pet fish. We lived the simple life as we had very little living off of pretty much one meager income. Many grown up decisions were made during this time so life seemed hard, but in all actuality life was so simple. I remember wanting a dog, a house, and a family. I wasn't sure how to make it all actually happen. But look where we are today. We have all that we wanted and so much more. We are truly blessed and I can't believe all the amazing things that have happened in the past five years.

Happy Halloween!

2010-11-03T11:40:00.003-05:00

This picture pretty much sums up our last week.... Bliss. Pure bliss.

Grandma Cindy {or Ma, as Caden calls her} came out for a visit last week and we had so much fun.

Caden carved his first pumpkin with Grandma's help. And got more attention than he's had in awhile.

All this while I caught up on sleep, dealt with feeding issues, and baby blues.

We are so thankful for Grandma Cindy and her taking time out of her busy schedule to come help us. We love you!!

Caden battled dressing up this year, but we finally dressed him as a Husker football player for the church Trunk or Treat on Saturday. Little did we know that we'd win Mizzou, and Helu (#10) would be the key player in the game. I think Caden received about twice as much candy from people because of his costume. And Porter was a cute little pumpkin. A nice and snugly one.

Motherhood Surprises

2010-10-12T23:12:00.004-05:00

Motherhood constantly surprises me. I always knew growing up that I would have children, and that I would be a mother. But I never really thought I would be that good at it. My patience wears thin if things aren't going the way I planned and I like to be busy which makes for a hectic home sometimes.

At the beginning of each year, I make goals and my one goal for this year was to simplify my life so I can focus on more important things.

I had no idea that we would have another child this year. But I'm so, so glad we did. And I'm so, so glad that I focused on simplifying this year.

It has made me a far better mother. I am much more patient, and less busy filling my life with things I think will make me happier.

Seeing Caden as a big brother makes my heart swell. He is the sweetest 2 year old I've ever met and I'm so thankful to be his mom. And that Porter. He's a gem of a baby. So cuddly and so precious. These two guys make me proud to be a mother.

Hello Porter Clark

2010-10-10T21:55:00.004-05:00

He's here! Welcome Porter Clark Averett!

8 lbs. 14 oz.
21.5"
Born Friday 10/8/10 at 3:25pm

We came home today and big brother, Caden held Porter's hand the entire ride.

Cutest thing ever.

I'm loving our family of 4 already.

Big Boy Caden

2010-09-30T21:04:00.002-05:00

Caden is growing up to be such a big boy.... he's definitely not a baby anymore. I've been focusing on being a better mother by making sure he gets the stimulation he needs and deserves. We're very lucky to have wonderful church friends that are proactive and plan activities such as playgroup {where we go to various locations around town as a group- i.e. the zoo, husker stadium, parks, etc.} and music makers {which is just like KinderMusik}. These activities happen to fall on my days off and we are very grateful for that.

Once I go back to work, my days off will shift and we will be left to figure out our own activities. Knowing this is on the horizon, and Caden would appreciate some activities while I'm home full time with him and the baby, I started planning mini preschool lessons for him. They only last about 10-30 minutes depending on the activity that goes with it. He is already loving it and I can see it paying off in his vocabulary and knowledge- which is so fun to see!

The other day, our little lesson was "A is for Acorns" so we went to East Campus for an Acorn hunt, and then came home to count our collection of acorns together. Then we sang a couple fall themed songs and colored an A is for Acorn page.

Since he enjoys this so much, I spent a few hours putting together a mini lesson manual to get us through November. I love teaching him and it has helped to map out our activities ahead of time.

As far as an update on the baby.... I had an ultrasound on Tuesday and the baby is measuring 8 lbs 4 oz. {although it's hard to know how accurate this truly is-- but my guess is that it's not too far off considering Caden was 8 lbs at this stage of the game). The doctor would like to induce me a week early. We are considering this and need to get him an answer tomorrow. Please be thinking of us as this seems like a really difficult decision. One part of me would like things to happen naturally, and the other part of me doesn't want to deliver a 10 lb baby.

I hope all is well with everyone.

xoxoxo

Big Helper

2010-09-25T12:11:00.007-05:00

Oh, look at them go. They're like two peas in a pod.

Caden insists on helping Dad mow the lawn and when they're done, he comes inside so proud saying, "I mow yard, mom-ma!"

It's about the cutest thing ever.

And it makes me happy, especially in these last days of pregnancy. {I know this baby could come any minute- I had Caden 4 days from now during his pregnancy}.

We had a bit of a scare this week {you can read more about it here}, but things are okay.... it just made me realize how unprepared I am to deliver a baby again.

I was lucky to have Caden with me on Thursday during the ordeal and he was so cute. He would say, "You sad mom?" as he would hand me a tissue and then say, "wipe nose."

And that would make me cry even more.

Because he's about the cutest thing ever.

I go in on Tuesday to have an ultrasound to see how big this guy is.... anyone want to take a guess?

Caden's World

2010-09-07T21:45:00.004-05:00

I can't help but feel a little sentimental these days. I know how much Caden's world is going to change in the next few weeks, and it makes me a little sad.

The past few weeks I've been obsessed with getting the entire house clean from top to bottom, and finishing some decorating projects.

As wonderful as checking things off the list have felt, it dawned on me that I need to be spending some quality time with this little guy.

Before his entire world is turned upside down.

So today we went to the park, had a cookie together and built train tracks upon train tracks. He helped me wash some of the baby's clothes, fold them, and match up socks. To cap off the day, we read books, sang wheels on the bus about 1600 times and counted to 6 about 1200 times.

It was a good day and now I don't feel so bad.

I know he won't be the only one with his world turned upside down, and honestly, I don't feel prepared for this baby at all. I'll admit I am concerned about having more than one child and being able to handle all that's on my plate. And most importantly, being able to be a patient and somewhat rested mother.

With Caden no longer napping, I don't know how it's all going to work. My goal is to work to have a more structured quiet time for Caden so we can all have about 1 1/2 hours down time. I figure Caden can have a quiet time basket with activities and/or toys that can only be played with during quiet time. (i.e. special books, movies)

Do you practice quiet time in your home? If so, where do you have it (Caden & the baby will be sharing a room)? What activities do you allow during this time? Any tips you can give would be so very helpful.

Hello 32 Weeks

2010-08-19T17:59:00.003-05:00

{from the hotel during our recent trip to Colorado}

And how do I feel?

Great, thanks for asking.

I finally have a surge of energy and nesting has kicked in full time. It's amazing what I can accomplish when I'm running around like a mad woman! {And not traveling every other week!}

And I think the fact that Caden was early is pushing me to be even more on top of things.

In just a couple of months, we will be a family of four. I will be the sole woman in our home. I don't know whether that's a good thing or not, but it sounds like a lot of fun.

I can wear enough ruffles and bows to even everything out.

I just hope I can handle being a mother of a newborn again. Is it kind of like riding a bike?

Caden's Prayer

2010-07-28T22:00:00.004-05:00

When saying prayers tonight, Caden had three trucks in his hands: a red fire truck, a orange cement mixer and a black truck.

Here was his prayer:
Father
Thanks
Red truck
Orange truck
Black truck
Daddy work
Mommy
Pants
Shirt
Amen!

Life In The Fast Lane

2010-07-20T23:02:00.005-05:00

We're back from a great trip in Estes Park.

I can't tell you how great it was. Relax to the max with a little bit of hiking and hanging out with good friends.

And we have our car back! Oh, how I missed having 4 doors.

I have now entered the third trimester with baby #2. Can you believe it?

Neither can I.... the time is going very fast. We are now discussing baby names and I'm pretty sure we found the golden nugget last night. I'm pretty sure this guy is going to be famous, or something.

Because it's that good.

{Sorry to be such a tease & wish I could share it with you, but we like to keep it a secret until we meet the baby and make sure we like the name}.

Just for fun, what are some of your favorite names these days?

That Silly Deer

2010-07-03T16:20:00.004-05:00

{my boys- taken by miss kaitlyn}

I had a dream the other night that I was an incredible writer and funny. Both of which are a stretch, I know. The minute I awoke, I had all these great and crazy ideas for fun blogs posts. And now, days later, I have forgotten all of them.

Probably because I have a bad memory anyways.

And being pregnant sure doesn't help the areas of my memory.

One thing I sure won't forget is our recent trip to Utah. It was such a much needed break from the crazy life we lead lately. Our bright idea to drive half way to Denver back fired when we hit a deer in Sterling, Colorado at 11pm at night leaving our car undrivable. Sterling is in.the.middle.of.nowhere and that seems to be amplified when it's pitch dark outside.

Good thing I just happen to have an insurance guy with me at all times and it helps that he's an eagle scout too.

Had this accident happened 20 years ago, it would have been interesting what we would have done. I'm sure a midnight hike would have been in store. Which sounds like fun until you throw an overtired 2 year old into the mix.

With only a phone call, we were waiting for help to come to us on the side of the road with semi's passing us at 75 miles and hour.

So stress ensued. And then disbelief with a little bit of joking mixed in. But no tears. Because I was happy we were all safe and felt truly blessed for that.

All the tears were all saved for the next day when everything hit me.

When I felt like life had been giving us lemon after lemon. As I made the decision to turn towards a more mundane life in the last few months, life seemed to be more surprising and eventful than ever.

And that broke me.

That silly deer broke me. How funny is that?

Such a simple thing that turned my world upside down.

Shortly after returning home from our great visit with family at Bear Lake in Utah, I was watching this video.

And I wept even more.

I love being a mother. It truly is the hardest thing I've ever done, but it's also the greatest. There is really nothing more important.

Nothing in the world-- no creative blog posts can compare, no little inconveniences can take away from this. I hope you know how much I love all of you.... many of which are mothers and have influenced my life greatly.

xoxoxoxoxo

A Dinosaur in Our Midst

2010-06-17T14:58:00.004-05:00

So I am over half way through the pregnancy, and conversation spurs everywhere I go about babies. Most of the time, it's with complete strangers, and it's delightful - I really do love it.

While at the pool the other day, a new friend quickly figured out this was my second child and said, "with one child, you feel like you can still do everything you did before kids. With the second, you are tired and ready to slow down."

And that I am, my friends. When I found out I was pregnant, it was exciting and shocking at the same time. I had a full plate with deadlines surrounding the baby's arrival and was already overwhelmed and exhausted (much to my own doing). And then Caden decided naps and sleeping were for the birds so more exhaustion set in. I felt like I was living in a pressure cooker-- trying to juggle being a good mom, and being involved with things I loved so much. Then one day, things started being taken off my plate and some tough decisions were made. A lot of faith ensued. Followed by a lot more peacefulness and happiness in my life.

I didn't realized how quickly I was trying to rush through life. It clicked about the moment I was getting mad at Caden for not sleeping when I finally woke up and realized that I was only thinking about me. He didn't want to take naps, and whatever I had to do needed to wait. Now some days we spend a little quite time relaxing and cuddling, instead of me fighting him so I can hop on the next conference call.

I've always loved this little Dinosaur with all my heart, and now I appreciate my motherly duties even more.

{Caden with this R-ar feet}

It's a .....

2010-06-09T07:52:00.000-05:00

9 years

2010-05-19T07:05:00.002-05:00

9 years ago today, I married this awesome guy.

And it's the best decision I've ever made. He is the most loving, patient, fun, even keeled person I've ever met.

Love you, Case!!

Our Great Conversations

2010-04-24T16:59:00.006-05:00

Caden? Wha mama?
Did you poop your pants?

I'll let you be the judge.....

Big Bro

2010-04-09T08:31:00.000-05:00

Someone is going to be a big brother. I'll give you one guess.

Happy Friday everyone!!

Hello Spring

2010-03-27T21:15:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone! Tomorrow, I'm excited to venture of to NYC for a few days. It's a little bit of Toolulu business mixed with a little bit of fun. I'm pretty excited about it. It's been a long time since I've been there.

And I know a few of you were bummed that you missed my DIY interior design class last term. Well you're in luck! I'm teaching it again and it's filling up fast. The class starts on April 7th from 6:30-8:30 pm for 3 weeks. You can call 402.437.2700 to register.

I hope everyone is doing well and having a great Spring so far! Yay Spring!

We Have a Winner

2010-03-15T21:12:00.002-05:00

We aren't quite sure where he got his love of vacuuming from, but we are sure glad for it! Do you know anyone else that vacuums with this big of a smile on their face?!

Caden has turned out to be quite the helper around the house. Making sure the laundry gets done right, and the dusting is done. He's a busy boy and sure keeps us wondering where he gets all his energy.

So tell me what you've been up to lately. Are you having the time of your life? Or purely exhausted? Let's talk about the good things and cheer each other up.

I'll just tell you this one thing: I love banana pancakes and it's all her fault! ;)

Saying No is Hard

2010-02-28T14:23:00.001-06:00

Seriously.

How can you say no to this cutie?

Caden is 2!

2010-02-16T21:58:00.004-06:00

It's hard to believe it, isn't it? Our little Caden is turning into a BIG boy so, so quickly. He turned 2 this Friday. We had a party with family here in Lincoln a couple weeks ago, and then for his birthday, we were in Utah and able to celebrate with Casey's family.

For his birthday, we headed over to the Bean Museum in Provo, UT which is pretty much like Cabela's on crack. I've never seen so many stuffed animals in my life and Caden absolutely loved it! He saw giant bears, an elephant, an alligator, and was even able to be a turtle. Doesn't he make the cutest turtle ever?

We could resist stopping at Sweet Tooth Fairy to get a vaNIElla squared cupcake. It was so, so yummy and definitely NieNie worthy.

While we were waiting for the party to get started, sword fights were going on everywhere. It was a riot.

And what more could a 2 year old want? Seriously. Cars on the cake. He was ecstatic and his entire face lite up.

I couldn't be more proud of my little Caden. He is such an even keeled boy with a killer personality. I love how he calls cars mei-mei's and his dear Uncle Christian, Chick. He is such a blessing in our life and I hope I can be the mother I am to be.

Love you Caden and Happy 2nd Birthday!!
xoxoxoxo

Photo #10

2010-02-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

The story: this picture was taken 12 days after Caden was born. Jonzy was still adjusting to having a new friend around so he always wanted to lay on top of us. Caden never minded one bit, and I always welcome the cuddle fest.

The details:
I have been tagged on Hilary's blog, and since I love looking at old photos, I thought this would be a fun one to participate in. Here are the rules:

1) Open your first picture folder~ like Hilary, this is not easy for me either so I stuck with iphoto since our pictures are everywhere on our computer.
2)Upload the 10th picture in that folder
3) Tell the story

Now it's my turn to tag people: Audra, Wendy and Kaitlyn

Everyone should have a pair of boots

2010-01-28T19:40:00.002-06:00

Caden is growing up so fast! I have a hard time believing he is almost 2. Seriously, where does the time go?

His favorite past times are wearing Mom and Dad's underwear on his head and taking walks around the house in our shoes.

And did you hear the big announcement? CraftyCon is my next big project. Coming to Chicago this fall. Check it out.

Mr. Charmer

2010-01-16T16:19:00.002-06:00

Don't you just love Caden's do?
He always wakes up with the best looking hair! Such a charmer, right?

We've had a great week here at our house. We started off the week by taking down Caden's crib. I am so proud of him for making the transition so well to a big-boy bed. The entire time Casey was taking down the bed, he kept saying "baby, baby". I think he's proud to be a big boy now!
Now I can finally decorate his room the way I've wanted to for over a year. I have to say, having a toddler is so much fun! A world of endless discovery and challenges. I feel so lucky to be able to spend a little more time with him now. Although my schedule seems crazy still, I love being able to be home with him when he wakes up for his naps and help him build endless amounts of train tracks. He is such a good boy and such a blessing.

New Year, New Beginnings

2010-01-10T16:30:00.006-06:00

This year is going to be so much fun. I can already sense it. Here's a sneak peek of what's going on in the next two months. Come and join me, if you can.

DIY Design class-- January 20th
For starters, I'm teaching a Do It Yourself: Interior Design class that starts January 20th. It's three weeks long and is from 6:30-8:30pm. I will be teaching you how to layout a room that's been giving you trouble, different wall decor arrangements, balance, color schemes and traffic flow. This class is through SCC and if your interested in taking it call 402.437.2700 to register. {$49}

CHA-- January 21st
I will be in a little craft heaven as I head towards sunny California for CHA. I get to hang out with some of my best pals and craft. What could be better?

Awesome Camp-- January 30th
I've teamed up with a few friends and we are putting on something called Awesome Camp. What is that, you ask? A place where awesome people can be awesome. Anyone has the opportunity to speak and share their passion for entrepreneurship, creativity, and communication. It's going to be a great event in Lincoln, and if you work in one of these three areas, you better attend. I promise you won't want to miss it. {$10}

Mom 2.0 Summit-- February 18th
You may remember a fun little conference I attended last year. {It's a conference that discusses the "Mom 2.0" wave-- bring marketers and women together to talk about marketing and how it should be-- i.e. women are the majority of the buying power in the home, thus marketing should address that.} This year, I'm going again and will also be speaking. I seriously can't wait! This is one of my highlights of last year and I can't wait to go and reconnect with all the people I met.

I hope you're year is off to a good start as well.

{image here}

Little Birdie Moving Announcements

2010-01-04T21:53:00.003-06:00

My good friend, Audra just moved into a new home and I designed these little birdie moving announcements for her. I had so much fun designing them and I had to share them with you-- cause you know birdies are my thing!

Congrats on the new house, Audra!!!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T13:37:00.004-06:00

{Caden with a orange sticker stuck in his hair. The sticker says "Cutie". That's exactly how I'd label him!}

2010 is here! So exciting, right? We had such a great year... one that I will never forget. A couple highlights for me:

Caden's 1st birthday
Stretching myself beyond what I ever thought was imaginable {Launching Fresh Nest Design and Toolulu, being featured in Glamour magazine, speaking at events}
Downsizing my "work" hours-- though I am working probably more than I ever have before... it's just from the comfort of home.
Casey going back to school for his MBA-- yay!

I love the first of the year. Things slow down and it gives me an opportunity to step back and reflect on the New Year. I always like to set goals as it's fun to look back and see if I'm anywhere where I thought I would be. Last year I set some great goals. Some were achieved, some still need work, but 2009 honestly threw me for a loop. Never in my mind did I think I would be launching two new projects that have opened the doors for so many opportunities. I knew that I really wanted to work on being home with Caden more and that propelled me into thinking bigger, and concentrating on my own goals and how I could get there.

I know 2010 is going to be a great year! There are already some wonderful things that I'm working on and can't wait to share them with you. My goals for 2010 are broad and wonderful. This year it's about about family and focus.

Focus on what I'm good at. 2009 was the year where I said, hey I'm good at that, hire me. And though that worked on getting me home, now I have too many things going on. I will likely need to downsize even more and focus on what I really, really enjoy {but what still pays the bills}.
Set a schedule and abide by it. Working from home is wonderful, most of the time. But there are days where things don't go well, and those are usually the days when I don't have a plan. I am going to segment my days so I can give Caden the time he needs and limit the time I spend on other projects.
Take a trip as a family and relax. The most cherished times with family is when I am away from the day to day spending time with them. I want to do this more.
Workout at least 3 times a week. I'm back at the gym and am doing good so far. I would love to lose 10 lbs. and get fit before we decide to get pregnant again.

Here's to a great year!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T14:20:00.004-06:00

I hope everyone is taking a minute to enjoy the holidays! It looks like there's a good chance we will be snowed in this Christmas. {High winds & up to a foot of snow with a good sheet of ice already down from yesterday}.

I am so thankful for my family and great friends. Thanks to you for being a part of that group and supporting me throughout the year.

Here are a couple different pictures of Caden going to go see Santa. {I couldn't decide which one I like better}. As you can see, he enjoyed every minute of sitting on Santa's lap, but especially the candy cane. He held on to that candy cane for dear life all the way home!

I hope you have a safe and Merry Christmas!

xoxoxo

Caden- the Ham

2009-12-14T21:41:00.003-06:00

Here are a couple recent favorites of Caden. He's 22 months in these pictures. What a cutie, huh?

And the classic blowing kisses goodbye.

He is such a ham.

Just one question... when did he grow up?

Virtual Baby Shower

2009-12-08T13:19:00.006-06:00

Hello everyone! I've missed you!! We are nearly snowed in around here so I have a little time to play catch up.

{invitations designed by me for Cami's shower}

So guess what?

My sister-in-law, Cami is about to have a baby. She could even be in labor this very minute. But I doubt that. She would have called. {Cause I know we're at the top of the list}.

And she's having a little boy {and by little I mean probably 10 lbs.- sorry Cami!} He will more than likely have red hair. And you know what they say about red heads.
While we were out in Utah visiting family, we threw a virtual baby shower. Yes, virtual. It's a sign of the times, baby! I haven't seen Cami with her little baby bump. Sad, huh? But we all still wanted to spread the cheer and get her ready for this little one. So here are a couple tips for hosting a shower virtually: {Sorry, no pictures... I was busy.}

Attention- make sure the person you are throwing a shower for is the center of attention. Use skype to bring in a video feed and make sure you have someone sitting in front of the computer talking to her and keeping her in the know when things are going on.
Play an interactive game- we had a sheet with questions that attendees filled out when they arrived. i.e. how much will the baby weigh, what color of hair will the baby have, when will the baby be born, etc. This helps keep the conversation going.
Have the husband (or fiance) make the mom or bride-to -be a special treat. They miss out on all the punch and cake by being away. And that's just no fun.
Gifts- ask that the gifts be sent to the mom or bride-to-be in advance so she has gifts to open while everyone watches.

Overall, I thought the shower went very well. I am so happy for Cami and Jon. We wish you the best!! xoxo

Grilled Cheese lovin'

2009-11-18T20:51:00.004-06:00

I've been playing with the camera more and more now that I'm home and actually have a little bit of "play" time on my hands. And I love playing with my new 80-200mm lens. Yeah, baby! Enough of the camera geek stuff.

What about this cutie. Even while eating a grilled cheese and carrots, he's irresistible.

And I have a question for you my dear friends. How are you?

For other camera geeks: {Shot in natural light, f2.8, 1/80, ISO 200}

Tigger Caden

2009-11-05T15:32:00.009-06:00

It all started with a tigger picking at my lawn....

Then he uncovered his face....
And I couldn't help but give him some candy....
I mean, just look at that face....
How can you deny it?

Happy Halloween!

Common Face

2009-10-25T21:06:00.003-05:00

{Cousin Riley & Caden}

This is a common face around here lately. Usually it's accompanied with the word "no." And then it's followed by me counting, "1----2--------3."

Sound like familiar dialogue?

He has also figured out the many possibilities of google. He walks up to the computer and says "truck!" "choo choo" "ee-ee-ee" (monkey) and it magically appears. And then he does his yo gabba gabba dance.

And that, my friend, never gets old.

Recent Moments

2009-10-18T21:54:00.003-05:00

A couple recent favorites from the crappy point and shoot. I love the moments though and am so glad I captured them. I'm trying to be positive so I won't say anything more about how awesome (ly bad) the camera is. See, totally positive.

Have you noticed how B.I.G. Caden is? He just went in for a check up and I'm happy to report that he's in the 100% for head, height and weight. So if he were in a room of 100 kids, he would be the tallest, weigh the most and have the biggest head. He's surpassing my expectations already.

Happy Sunday everyone!

xoxoxo

Mr. Right

2009-10-09T07:13:00.000-05:00

I am seriously the luckiest person on earth. Look at this guy. Don't you just want to hang out with him? Well, guess what? I get to every freakin' day.

I had the rare opportunity of snapping pictures of my Mr. and it was fun. I captured most of the looks that he sends my way.

There's the: Really? That's not what your going to do. Really?

And the: Funny, go lucky.

And then there's the.... well, I'm not going there.

I couldn't ask for a better husband and supporter. He's here for me during my toughest times and let's me lean on him whenever I need to. Now, if I could only think of someway to show him how much I love him. He deserves that and so much more.

Vive le weekend!

Rasch, Rasch

2009-10-02T13:37:00.004-05:00

{image here}

Caden's favorite place is the trash can these days. Can't find your hairspray? Look in the trash. Can't find your favorite pen? Yep, that's right, look in the trash.

It's probably because I've made him my personal trash boy.

"Here, Caden, take this to the trash."

He holds it, says "rasch, rasch" all the way to the trash can. He opens the door located under the kitchen sink, drops in the trash, and closes the door. Then he comes back over to me for some praise.

It's about the cutest thing I've ever seen.

And if that doesn't make you weep, let me tell you about the garbage truck that visits our house twice a week. It's like Christmas everytime. "rasch, rasch" as he taps on the living room window. It's music to my ears.

Happy Friday everyone! Vive le weekend!

6am is Early

2009-09-17T06:45:00.006-05:00

Something I'm sure you didn't know is that it's really cool to wake up at 6am these days. Atleast that's what Caden tells me. And something I'm pretty sure he knows is that he's cute and he can get away with it.

A lot of things are going on at the house, and I think we're all feeling it. A lot of excitement and a lot of nerves. Ever since Caden was born, I really wanted to be at home with him as much as possible. Deep down, I am a worker, and a business person so this is something that came as a surprise to me. I started projects on the side to try and make this more of a reality. And it's finally paying off.

I am quitting my full time job and starting a part time job with SCC in the next couple weeks. I can hardly believe it. Although my plate is still pretty full, I feel better knowing that I'm taking a step in the right direction. I have no idea where this next year will take me as I have been amazed at all that has happened recently.

I have to admit this is all a little nerve racking (leaving a secure full time job with benefits- yowzers!), I know this is what I'm supposed to be doing. Well, as long as Caden agrees to sleep until atleast 7:00 am anyways.

Live strong and carry on!

And a Happy Birthday to Casey- without him none of this would be possible!!! xoxoxo

Glamour - check!

2009-09-11T20:34:00.003-05:00

I just picked up my very own copy of Glamour magazine and this is why I'm so excited about it. {Yes, I'm tooting my own horn here, but never in a million years did I think this would happen}.

Shoot for the stars and things will happen.

Vive le weekend!

{image via jcaroline creative}

Hello-o-o

2009-09-07T21:19:00.003-05:00

Wowzers! September is already here...?!?! Hard to believe, really. Well as most of you know, I turned the BIG 3-0 last month.

The party Casey threw for me was small and delightful. I was surrounded by my closest friends and family. Pictured above you can see one of the highlights of the evening {a pinata brought by none other than Christy}. It was a lot of fun, and I'm not ashamed to admit I enjoyed it as much as the kiddos.

I'm loving 30 so far, and am feeling really good about life. {Although the body aches kick in every once and awhile}. ;) I love my little family and what we've achieved. I'm very excited at what this year will bring.

Hope everyone is doing well.

xoxoxoxo

Flashback Wednesdays

2009-08-19T21:56:00.001-05:00

Does this little juice box bring back any memories? Remember the commercial with the cute stockboy that promised this incredible juice- Ecto Cooler? Ah, he was so dreamy.

32 lbs. of joy

2009-08-17T07:30:00.000-05:00

My little man is sure growing up. Everyday it seems like he's doing something new. Geez, I love this little guy alot. All 32 lbs. of him. Worth all the loss of sleep and back pain. It's true when they say there's nothing like your own kids.

**Note, the first two pictures have NO editing on his eyes. His eyes are just that beautiful.

Going Places

2009-08-14T09:44:00.002-05:00

It's a good thing I have such an awesome driver. What in the world would I do without him??!!

Vive le weekend!

Flashback Wednesdays

2009-08-12T13:39:00.004-05:00

Christy and I were talking on the phone last night and she mentioned Caboodles. I loved my Caboodle and took it just about everywhere with me. A girl always wants her blush on hand, or a little bottle of hairspray- you just never know when you'll need to spruce up. I had one almost exactly as pictured above, but I think I remember it having a heart shaped latch. I always loved the different compartments, and being able to open it up like a fish box. Eventually the hinges broke on me- otherwise I would still probably still be using it.

Do you remember Caboodles? Did you have one?

King Jonzy Dethroned

2009-08-11T08:48:00.001-05:00

Don't you just feel sorry for him?

No worries, he still gets a bone every now and then.

No, mom

2009-08-07T06:59:00.006-05:00

the cars go here...

Vive le weekend!

Flashback Wednesdays

2009-08-05T09:30:00.003-05:00

Remember the old Banana Republic t-shirts? It was the coolest thing at my school to own atleast 2 of them. And by making one of them your gym shirt, you were the ultimate coolest. Anyone with me?

On the Spot

2009-08-03T12:46:00.005-05:00

A couple random questions that I get asked all the time via conversations and random emails, I thought I'd share with you.

What kind of camera do you have?

We have 3, actually. We have the Nikon D70 and Nikon D90, and some cheapo point and shoot that I'm always disappointed with. The Nikon D90 is our baby and is used the most. The Nikon D70 was our first digital SLR camera and we love it, but it's only used as a backup on photo shoots and for more everyday use. I bought the cheapo point and shoot to take around with me in my purse. It was the cheapest camera I could find at best buy (about $130) that seemed okay. I am always disappointed with this camera and it only gets used at events that I need to smuggle in a camera, or I just don't want to lug around all the equipment that come with the other cameras.

What is Toolulu?

At the core, we are a marketing/public relations firm. We help individuals and companies focus on their goals and make them a reality with strategic planning. Our expertise is helping these same people create an online presence. We do this by creating a custom plan unique to each business and help them build a network online (via facebook, twitter, LinkedIn, etc). We realize that not all companies have the same goals so we tailor these to the specific needs. We also offer classes (i.e. Blogging, Using facebook & twitter, Beginner's Etsy class, etc) to help everyone the basics on using these mediums to promote themselves or their business.

How is Jonzy?

Apparently, I haven't blogged about Jonzy in quite awhile. Soon, though I promise. He is good, and my aunt calls him the horse. Let's just say that he has filled out quite a bit. Hopefully our new exercise program will help him trim down quite a bit.

What is Fresh Nest Design?

This is a project I started with Erin Schlosser {check out her amazing stamp line here- she is uber-talented!} We both have a thing for interior design. She's a pro, and I'm not, but we love it all the same. We teach our readers how to design their space for themselves by doing tutorials (i.e how to paint, hang a picture, etc) and also inspire by showing lovely bedrooms, stairwells, etc. We also help design spaces for anyone that wants to hire us out for their space. {Good news: we are giving two space redesigns away!!}

You work FT too! How do you have time for it all?

It's true, I do work full time and I don't sleep. That's not totally true, I do sleep, but I'm up late and up early. I have a really tight schedule, but I prioritize everything to maximize my time. When I get home from work, until the time Caden goes to sleep, it's family time. I am home most evenings, but I do take a day or two a month as "my" evenings, but I feel to guilty to take any more.

These are a list of the most popular questions I receive, but please feel free to ask away in the comments and I promise to answer them.

Now, I have a couple questions for you...

What is your favorite color?
What was your elementary school mascot?
What have you done today?

image here

Lovely Links

2009-07-31T15:56:00.005-05:00

One of my very favorite etsy sellers reopened her shop today, Dandee Designs. Keep an eye on it this weekend as she promises to fill it with goodies.

And what's more awesome? She's giving away a $30 gift card over here to celebrate Lyndsay's revised venture {FYI, Lyndsay did my banner here on this very blog... she's amazing}. Hurry on over, the giveaway ends soon!!

Now I can really say vive le weekend!

Signing off....

Flashback Wednesdays

2009-07-29T14:31:00.003-05:00

Flashback Wednesday is where I bring back goodies from the good old days. The 80s & 90s. I talk about fashions, trends, toys, you name it. These are some of my wonderful memories from childhood.

I remember going to junior high (that's what it was called way back then, remember???!!) and saving from all my babysitting jobs for a pair of tapered guess jeans. They had to be stonewash and tapered. Just like this....

It makes me cringe just thinking about it.

image here

Vive le weekend!

2009-07-27T15:20:00.003-05:00

Our weekend was wonderful. Seriously wonderful. It was one of those weekends you wish you had all the time. Not spending ALL Saturday running errands. Surrounded by family and loved ones. And enjoying the sun and water. Here are a couple pictures of our great weekend.

Yay for good weekends! How was yours?

Vive le weekend!

2009-07-24T14:38:00.003-05:00

Do you every have a day or week where you'd just like to throw in the towel? Seriously! It's been one of those weeks. Shifting focus... trying to balance on a pin.

One thing that I know I couldn't live without in my life is my George Foreman. Great for cooking hot dogs for the little man and grilled cheese or paninis. I seriously love that thing. Quick, easy, and yummy!! {Well, the paninis atleast... not sure about the hot dogs.}

Vive le weekend!

image here

Flashback Wednesdays

2009-07-22T20:24:00.000-05:00

This Flashback Wednesday is brought to you by superstitions. I don't know that this is necessarily a flashback, but these are some superstitious things I used to do when I was younger.

Hit the ceiling of the car if we ran a yellow light. I don't know what this really accomplished. I think it made us invisible so cops couldn't see us.
Lift up your legs and hold your breathe while passing a cemetery so you don't possess a spirit that has recently died. (The cemetery on 40th & O always killed me!)
Don't step on a crack or break your mother's back.
Blowing on dandelions to make a wish

Do you remember any superstitions you used to practice when you were younger? Share them, I'd love to hear.

Also, we have a great giveaway going on over at Fresh Nest for some stylish pillows. It ends tomorrow.

image here

Live your Life

2009-07-20T11:04:00.003-05:00

{picture from the burial}

What an incredible weekend. I had the great priviledge of attending a memorial for Justin Stineman on Saturday. He passed away after a good and hard fight with cancer. He was 32. He leaves behind his wife, Kelcy and his daugher, Leah.

Honestly, I didn't know Justin all that well. After the service, I wish I had. He was an amazing man-donating a lot of time to the Waverly fire department, and a passionate sports spectator. Stories of his friendship were lovingly told. The husker fight song was played on upon his exit of the church. Firefighers lifted him to his last flight. It was heartfelt. It was real. It was deep and it hit me hard.

I pray for Kelcy & Leah. I know they will be okay, but they don't feel that way now.

It makes you realize how important your days here are earth really are.

Live well & live with honor.

Justin will be missed.

Advice Soapbox

2009-07-17T10:27:00.004-05:00

We've been doing some senior photo shoots lately. We love doing them! It's inspiring and funky, and always different. Some seniors know where their headed, others don't. Some are rigid, some are so laid back. They are all so different. Thinking back to this time in my life, I wonder what sort of pep talk I would have given myself. Here's a list of things I would pass along in this scenario:

Life usually doesn't go as planned. In fact, sometimes it's better if it doesn't.

You may not know what you want to do for a living, but figure out your passion, and do it quick. Get involved in the community and surround yourself with people that love doing the same thing. It will make your career path a lot smoother.

Don't be roommates with your closest friends. I promise you won't be friends after living together. {or, your chance of being friends is .000001%}

Listen to your parents. They know a lot. Be yourself and be independent too, though. I have AWESOME parents that have always given me my space and let me be myself. However, seeing some parent/child relationships, I just want to say that it's not healthy to call your parents 4 times per day e.v.e.r.y.d.a.y or vice versa.

Play.Play.Play. Now is the time to travel and do every crazy idea or thing out there. Not that you can't do it later on, but life does get a little more complex and complicated. Make your own path. Be yourself, and no one else.

What advice would you have given yourself way back when? It's so fun to think back.

Vive le weekend!

And if you're wondering... wha???!! You do photography???!! We sure do, check us out here.

Flashback Wednesdays

2009-07-15T18:10:00.003-05:00

Remember my Flashback Wednesdays? Well, I'm thinking about bringing them back. When I run into readers of my blog, it's the feature that they always talk about, and they beg me to bring it back. I've actually had people get on their knees and beg me.

So this isn't a promise, but you will probably see this feature on here every once and a while.

Do you remember the California Raisins?
A raisin commercial with personalized raisins singing "I Heard it through the Grapevine." Really, could it get any better than this? We all had lunch boxes and posters hanging in our bedrooms.

My favorite California Raisin commercial was the one with Michael Jackson.

Here's to creative advertising and raisins!!

Run Run Run as F-A-S-T as You Can

2009-07-14T13:18:00.004-05:00

If you've been following me on facebook or twitter lately, you have probably noticed that I'm running more than I used to lately. {Translation: I've been running!!.... I haven't been running regularly since Caden was born. True story.}

And it feels good. So good that I'm going to try and run 4 times a week. And Casey's along for the ride too. Here's how we are going to give ourselves the best chance at being successful at this. {Cause we all know exercising regularly is HARD work!}

Set a Schedule. We have 4 days a week that we have noted on our calendars as running days. In case you're curious they are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. All other days we will take a leisure walk around the neighborhood- which isn't really exercising, but even a mile walk on days off will help shed pounds.
Have a buddy. If you have an exercise buddy, you are more likely to succeed. There are days where you just won't feel like exercising. A good exercise buddy will force you to go. Literally force you. And you will do the same when they are having a touch day.
Set goals. We started with a 2 mile run yesterday. It's not that far, but that's okay. We aren't going to start running 5 miles a day, but we will work up to it. Set reasonable goals and you will acheive them. Yesterday Casey was an over acheiver and ran 3 miles. Ever week, we will bump our distance up so we don't get frustrated.
Switch it up. Run one day, walk the next, bike on the weekends, go swimming. It always feels good to change it up a bit. And it's good for the body too because it works other muscles. We haven't figured out this one yet, but are doing a good mix of walking and running. Truth be told, it's a great way to get everyone out, including Jonzy. I will probably throw in a pilates video every now and then.
Post Notes. Put pictures up of you that you don't like to motivate you. Put notes on the refrigerator that say you can only have one cookie a day. Put motivational quotes on your mirror.
Work out to music. Grab your ipod and load it will good songs. Some of my favorite running music: Enimem, Jason Mraz, Outkast, Foo Fighters and for the cool down it's Jack Johnson all the way.

Now this isn't all that we are doing. We are eating better too. My eating has been out of control (READ: Lots of eatting out) and it's time to get a handle on it. Here's to loosing some pounds and being in good shape.

image here

4th of July

2009-07-07T13:24:00.006-05:00

Here's Mr. Caden on the 4th of July. Seriously the cutest kid ever. We had an amazing 4th with Matthew & Crystal in town and friends gathering from all around. I couldn't ask for anything more.

Here are some of the highlights:

Caden & Papa enjoying the parade. There's a reason Caden knows his name... look at all the candy he has in his cup holder.

Grandma & Caden. They are best buds and Caden screams everytime he sees her. It's the cutest thing ever.

Corey, the smurf. He was painting the sky with a smoke bomb and it decided to explode. Luckily he still has all his fingers.

Here's to a great 4th of July and wonderful family and friends!!

Good for the Soul

2009-07-02T10:40:00.004-05:00

{Introspection by Strange Facination}

Do you ever have heavy moments in your life when all you seem to do is be introspective? I find myself being inside my head a lot of days lately. It is not depression. It is not feeling sorry for myself. It just is.

Well, no, it's really more than that. It's more about making sure I am who I need to be in this life and making the most of it. Some days I feel like I am and most days I feel really, really selfish. I feel like I take a lot more than I give. I am trying everyday to be the best I can be and hopefully the people close to me know I am trying.

My role as a wife and mother can be very busy. Busy is an interesting word to describe it, I know. I am so busy, busy with all my crazy ventures {trust me, I feel more than crazy sometimes!}, that alot of my time at home involves multi-tasking. Caden and I do read books, and play, but this week we've been tending to the landscaping, and working as we bond. Every once and awhile, I make sure to take a picture of a moment in time for I hope I'm not letting time slip me by. I can't tell you how much I enjoy letting Caden take hold of the hose and letting loose on the nozzle and getting himself {and me} all wet in the process. I cherish nothing more than his smile and giggles.

You may, or may not have noticed that I am posting less here on Mumbo Jumbo. Here's the deal. I am keeping Mumbo Jumbo around amidst the crazy, but am not forcing myself to post on here. It will be when I feel like it. It will be when I have something worthwhile to say. You deserve that, and frankly, I do to, and so does Casey, and Caden. Afterall, this site was started as more of a journal of sorts- so my family could read it and know what I felt as I journeyed through life. I don't know where Mumbo Jumbo will go, or what it will end up as, but I'm glad you're along for the ride.

{for further introspective reading, go here}

Sprucing up the Lawn

2009-06-29T11:09:00.005-05:00

This is what we've been working on around our house recently. And I'm sore. And tired. We have started on Phase 1 & Phase 3- a little bit. We built a short retaining wall- only 3-4 blocks high in the front. And then transplanted, and replanted and planted. And picked up rock, and rock, and dirt, and dirt. Not all in that order, but it was quite the process. To keep up with the details and after pictures, stop on over to Fresh Nest. Here is a before picture:

Do you have landscaping plans to finish this year? You might want to check this out too.

Beautiful landscape rendering done by Nicole. Isn't it fabulous?

Busy Summer

2009-06-25T13:40:00.002-05:00

Hello my friends.

Nothing beats cooling off with water in a bucket.

And taking a nap in a swing.

Berry Berry good

2009-06-19T10:37:00.003-05:00

{image here}

Happy Friday y'all! You know how much I love this day. And it's extra special cause Casey's back home. So all is well.

This weekend I have a couple things planned, but that's about it. Relaxing just sounds like fun right now. But if you know me at all, I'm not very good at relaxing. So after about 30 minutes of sitting down, I will surely find something to do.

Vive le weekend!!!

P.S. We still have 2 spots left in our Blogging 101 class tomorrow. Interested in attending? Let me know ASAP.

P.S.S. Raspberries sound really good right now.

P.S.S. I love you.

Famous?

2009-06-18T09:59:00.005-05:00

{image here}

So I need your help. Please, pretty please. I have really, really, REALLY want to attend BlogHer- it's a blogging conference in Chicago and it's like the event.of.the.year. for bloggers. And you know how I like to get my blog on. The event is sold out, and I had pretty much given up on all hopes of attending.

But my hope is back. I can win an all expenses ride {via Social Luxe Lounge & Whrrl), but I have to work for it. I have to write a story about how I'm famous.

So tell me, what makes me famous?

Family Conference Call

2009-06-16T14:00:00.000-05:00

When Casey is away, we get to do fun things like this as a family. Caden just giggles and giggles at his dad's funny faces.

Although I love our little meetings online, I sure miss my Mr. I don't sleep well when he's away and I get super jumpy. It's a good thing we have a 70 lb. clown dog to keep us safe. ;)

I really, really miss you babe.
xoxoxoxo

Like 'em?

2009-06-15T16:15:00.003-05:00

{tree decal from DaliDecals}

I go back and forth as to whether I like vinyl decals. Some of them are really awesome like the tree pictured above. Some of them are just plain cheesy. But then part of me wonders if I put something like the tree above up if I would tire of it quickly. That, and it would probably take an act of congress for me to convince Casey that something like this would be awesome and we can't live without it.

So tell me, what's your take on vinyl decals? Love them, hate them? Okay in certain situations?

Breathe

2009-06-11T22:55:00.005-05:00

{image here}

A happy Friday to you all. Just thought I'd leave you with this quote I found by Oprah Winfrey,

"Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure."

Some of you know me pretty well, but for those of you who don't, I have a really hard time letting go. I take after both of my hard working parents in the fact that I can't relax. I must be doing, doing, doing all the time. And as my mom says, I have determination beyond anyone she has ever met.

That was until Caden came along. I think he's going to give me a run for my money, here. And sometimes I just want to tell him, "turn that determination off, it will all be okay and your toys will still be there to play with tomorrow."

It will be interesting to see who he is when he grows up. Will he be determined like me, or more balanced like his father? Life is ever changing and evolving. I just hope I am evolving in the right way. I hope the determination I have is being used for good.

Vive le weekend! {Filled with lots of breathing and relaxing, I hope!}

Thoughts?

P.S. Head on over to Fresh Nest to enter to win one of Christopher Lowell's book.

Aloha!

2009-06-07T20:52:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday to you all! There's nothing like a great weekend that makes Monday less painful. I always feel so much more refreshed after I've had a relaxing and productive weekend.

Don't you just love my little Hawaiian boy? He kept stealing people's leis at a luau we went to on Friday night. It was priceless. Who need entertainment when you have him around?

What was your entertainment this weekend?

Blogging class

2009-06-05T09:08:00.006-05:00

{image here}

Our first class went so well, that we had people feeling bad that they missed out. So guess what...??? We're listening. Toolulu's next Blogging 101 class will be on June 20th from 1-2 pm at Scooter's at 84th & VanDorn.

Here's what you can expect:

Basic blogging how-to's- including links in your posts, how to add photos from other sites, inserting videos.
How to organize your sidebars, and add links and information
Want to know who's visiting your blog? We will teach you how to add google analytics or statcounter to your site.
How to make reading blogs easier. We will talk about google reader and show you how to use it.
Have general questions? We will be there to answer those too.

The best thing about this event? It's FREE. That's right, free. {Our last freebie, my friends}. And I guarantee that if you are a new to blogging or been around for a few years, you will learn atleast one thing. {If you don't, I'll refund your money}.

Class size is limited. If you are interested, please contact me ASAP at deb AT toolulu DOT com.

Vive le weekend!!

My boys

2009-06-04T08:12:00.004-05:00

Over the weekend, we check out the Farmer's Market downtown. I love going there. So many talented people showing off their goodies.

I look at my little Caden and wonder where my little baby went. He is a full blown toddler now. How did that happen? It seems like just yesterday when he was born, and only weighed a mere 8 lbs. We went to the doctor on Monday and he weighs nearly 30 lbs. 95-100 percentile on everything. Yeah, we are total over achievers.

I love my little family so much.

Who knew Yanni was so Awesome

2009-06-02T07:24:00.000-05:00

Like a undercover secret agent, I snuck my camera into the Yanni concert over the weekend. I know what you're thinking. Yanni? Really? Yanni? But aren't you under like 60?

Yes, yes, I am. But Yanni has turned cool. Well, he was always cool {at least to people over 50}. He has a new show on the road called Yanni Voices. And it's really quite amazing. And I'm being dead serious. Yanni has handpicked younger singing artists that range in singing styles. He is also backed by an incredible line of musicians. Many of the instrumentalists had solo jam time, including the congo and trumpet player, but I think my favorite was great seeing the harpist jam out.

I went to the show with Christy. We learned about Yanni Voices at a blogging conference in February. And we were given the major hookup {thank to One 2 One Network} with back stage passes after the show. Here are a couple shots of our time with the artists.

Singers Leslie Mills, Chloe, me, Christy & Ender Thomas

Here is a great picture with me and Ender. He apologized for his sweaty face. I was okay with it. Christy and I even gave him some Twitter tips. {His twitter handle is @enderthomas}

We were feeling bad that we didn't get to see Nathan Pacheco again {he is probably my most favorite}. He had to rest his voice as they are doing back to back appearances on the road. Luckily, we met him back at the conference in February. We automatically connected because we are both BYU alumni. His style of singing is opera. And who would have thought that I like opera, but he has a voice and emotion that just makes me engaged. Seriously, keep an eye on him, he will be taking his own stage someday.

Even though I had seen previews, and had enjoyed them, I was still unsure about going to the show. I was so glad I went. I was so inspiring and I was very impressed by the show. It's so wonderful to see talented people doing their thing. At the concert, Yanni had a little pep talk with us about the economy and he realizes how tough things are right now. He ended that little talk with a piece of advice, "Don't forget to dream."

To see a further recap of the show, see Christy's post.

Fortune Cookies

2009-05-29T09:25:00.003-05:00

{image from inchmark}

I have always wanted to make fortune cookies. Luckily inchmark gives us the step by step on how to make them.

Now that it's summer, are you getting busy? Like super, super busy? Cause we are and it's wonderful and great, but I would just love about 30 minutes to bask in the sun. Doesn't that sound wonderful?

I think all of my fortune cookies would say, "You will have time to bask in the sun today."

If you could write your own fortune cookie what would it say?

Vive le weekend!

Pushing harder than ever before

2009-05-26T15:37:00.003-05:00

{image here}

Do you know what it feels like when you've been working on something so hard and it doesn't pan out, or someone tells you it isn't possible? It's like a bubble bursts, a pain in my side. It kinda hurts.

It just makes me want to push harder and stronger than ever before.

If only I could live without sleep...

What do you do when you get a push?

Life is Pretty, yes it is

2009-05-22T07:37:00.001-05:00

{image here}

I am definitely looking forward to an extended weekend. And extra day to regroup and hang out the family is always welcome in my book. And now for an update on the home front....

Caden is talking and I love hearing his words so much. He says mum and da. And probably my favorite of all right now is pointing at the dog and saying "sit". {Although it sounds like he is saying something like ship, or well, you know.}
Our anniversary was a success and it felt like old times. We went try out Blue Orchid and treated ourselves to ColdStone. It was wonderful to have a focused conversation, but we both agreed that we wouldn't change anything about our family and where we are at now.
Toolulu is making its debut on Thursday, May 28th. We are teaching a free Blogging 101 class. {Class size is limited so let me know if you'd like the details- email me at deb AT toolulu DOT com}. Whether you are new to blogging, or have been blogging for awhile, I think it will be worth while. We will be sharing some tips and tricks we have learned along the way.

I hope you all are doing well and I hope you have a great weekend. As always, Vive le weekend!!

8 years

2009-05-19T08:45:00.002-05:00

It has been 8 wonderful years since I tied the knot with Casey. I seriously don't know what I'd do without him. He is the best person I know.

xoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Hello Monday

2009-05-18T09:22:00.003-05:00

Above is one of the highlights of the trip to Kansas City this weekend. You know how I love my paper. Poor Christy had to travel with me under less than desirable circumstances. The entire weekend, I didn't feel good. I was really looking forward to trying out Jack Stack Barbecue and their cheesy corn. But all that sounded good was sprite and bread.

During the trip, we attended and spoke at the Chicks Who Click conference which is a conference geared towards chicks who click. Chicks who blog, facebook, tweet, etc. {There were a couple guys there too}. I picked up some really great tips over the weekend and met some great people. For a recap of the talks {including ours}, visit the Chicks Who Click blog.

Le Weekend

2009-05-15T11:09:00.004-05:00

Custom ABC print

Hello! Hello! What a week it has been! I can't even begin to tell you how quickly it has flown by. Now the weekend is here and all I can say is Vive le weekend!!

{Or as Caden would say jaba-doba}

How has your week been?

Keeping you posted

2009-05-13T15:17:00.002-05:00

Is it really Wednesday already? Whew! Where are the days going? For the Monday redesign this week over at Fresh Nest Design, we switched things up a bit. Erin and I are doing a friendly competition against one another. Choose your favorite design and vote on it. You'll be entered to win a redesign for yourself at no cost. {I'm not plugging for votes here, please vote honestly.}

We also announced our next design challenge and the prize is a toddler bed. Come on over and check it out.

And after you're done entering the challenging and finishing your deck with this freebie, make a little of this. It's seriously the best I've ever had.

xoxoxo

The apple of my heart

2009-05-12T06:43:00.001-05:00

Apple Logo Cookies

My husband seriously rocks. He came home with one of these last night. It's the best gift he's given me since this.

Oh, Apple just melts my heart.

All in time for the conference this weekend. I am speaking with Christy and I honestly can't wait. It's going to be a riot.

Happy Monday

2009-05-11T00:05:00.004-05:00

Being a mother has its ups and downs. Usually more ups than downs. For some reason, this weekend wasn't an up. It could possibly have something to do with mother's day and the fact that I always feel a slide of guilt for not being a better mother. For being a workaholic and trying to work so hard so I can spend more time being a mother. I keep telling myself that it will all happen eventually. The persistance will pay off.

Well, this morning seemed to mimic my weekend pretty well. I have this new styling gel that gives my hair more volume and I love it, but it's super sticky and a mess. I put it all over my roots and went to turn the blow dryer on.

Ugh! Why isn't the plug working?

Wait, this other plug isn't working either!!??

My freaking blow dryer decided it was time to move on and leave me with a sticky mess of a hair do. Too bad it's not long enough to pull back.

Then Caden walked in the room and was watching me tackle my mess of a hair while he banged on the bathroom vanity and sang do-do-do songs. I really love it when he does that. It seriously makes my heart melt.

He walked off and I see a pile of goop sitting on the floor.

For some reason Caden's diapers don't want to stay on these days. I think we got a bad batch. So it doesn't hold everything in all the time.

Yep, Caden sure was do-do-doing.

Nice.

On a better note, Denise from Supercuts called me and fixed Caden's hair cut. Doesn't he look so much better? Denise freakin' rocks and we are all friends now. Thanks Denise and thanks Supercuts!!

A Wonderful Weekend Ahead

2009-05-08T16:20:00.002-05:00

image here

Happy Friday to you all! You know it's one of my favorite days. The work week is over {and haven't we worked hard?} and the weekend is here. And this weekend is very special with Mother's Day on Sunday. It's a day that I get to spend with my mother and my sisters and I always love it.

Vive le weekend and I hope you have a wonderful Mother's Day!

toolulu is born!

2009-05-06T15:01:00.005-05:00

Have you noticed this little logo on my sidebar? Whaa... you don't click your RSS feeds and stop by every now and again? Well, no biggie. I'm still going to tell you all about it.

My friend Christy and I have been in this blogging world for quite sometime and are ready to help others build their knowledge of blogging and social media. So we introduce to you toolulu. We can help with many things including: consulting, social media, event planning, PR. Pretty much anything that is fun and has to do with online work. If you, or someone you know are thinking of starting up an online gig, or looking to expand their online presence, please send them our way. We would love to help!

Inspiration Places

2009-05-05T13:56:00.003-05:00

inspiration board here

Are there sites out there that you love reading and get excited about every time a new article hits your Google Reader? Here are a couple of sites that I love to visit & always find inspiring:

What sites make your list?

It's my party and I can't freakin' wait!

2009-05-04T07:13:00.000-05:00

In a few months I will be turning the fabulous 30. And honestly, I couldn't feel better about it. The nice people at Minted selected me and my to be party (to be determined) as inspiration for their invitation contest. The designers were given a couple pictures of me and a short bio and were challenged to design something for my "swanky party". Go and check it out and vote on your favorites. The winning invitation will makes it's debut as my party invitation. Here are a couple of my favorites:

drop in the bucket

bubbly

Custom Wedding Invitations

2009-04-29T07:16:00.000-05:00

Here's one of my most recent fun projects. Designing wedding invitations for Whitney. It was SO much fun. I seriously wish I could do this for a living. Maybe someday, right?

Up and Up

2009-04-27T12:04:00.004-05:00

{image here}

Hello... hello. A Happy Monday to you all. Want to know what's going on in my life these days? Well, here you go.

Speaking at Chicks Who Click in Kansas City May 16th. {FYI, the day Casey & I officially started dating... 12 years ago}. This is a social media conference geared towards bloggers and anyone who is online using social medias like blogging, facebook or twitter. Are you going to be in KC? Register now and get the early bird discount. Discount ends May 1st.
Are you up for a challenge? Well, over at Fresh Nest, we are having our first one. No spending allowed, you just have to use what you've got. All for a chance to win the Kelli Kit valued at $125. Entries end this Thursday, April 30th.
And of course, I'm being a mom and a wife and a FT worker through all of this. I know, it's all a little crazy, but I'm hoping that my hard work pays off soon. Say a prayer for me, will ya?

xoxoxoxoxo

Happy, happy

2009-04-24T11:08:00.003-05:00

The only time I have ever used a polaroid camera, it was back in the 80s. Mathias Meyer does some stunning work with a polaroid camera. I just sit in awe.

A Happy Friday to you all! We have some fun plans for the weekend. How about you?

{Image by Mathias Meyer via Paper Cameras}

Sassy Delight

2009-04-22T09:26:00.003-05:00

{image via flickr}

You have to excuse my sassy rants lately. This happens to me every spring. I wake up with a ornery chip on my shoulder and start speaking my mind. It is kind of a fun passtime for me. I enjoy making fun of life... that is, if I'm in the mood. Just ask my husband what happens when I'm not in a making-fun mood.

What? He's not here to tell you.

{looking over my shoulder}

Too bad, you will just have to use your imagination.

Oops, my bad. I just can't control this sassiness. Is that what you call it? If you call it something bad, I don't want to know. Just like I changed the picture of my yellow shoes the other day to start getting votes in my favor. It's because I'm competitive and don't want to loose. I also don't want to be called bad things. Sassiness is okay. I'm a poor loser.

Today it is gorgeous outside so go and get your earth on. {Cause it's Earth Day, silly!} Looking for some eco-friendly tips, go here.

I paid $9 for poop!

2009-04-20T07:41:00.003-05:00

A fun weekend. Really, it was. But over the weekend we ran into hair issues. The way I seem to live my life right now is moment by moment. I had good intentions at finding Caden a new hair stylist, but then I though to myself, "Well, that's just silly. He's only 1, why spend more than $10 on a haircut...". So we tried out the mass production route.

We made our way to Supercuts and were greeted by what appeared to be an 18 year old that just graduated from high school. We soon came to the realization that they didn't have to be licensed beauticians to work there. They just needed to appear experimental with hair color and have a tattoo of some sort.

Now, I know, 1 year olds are squirmy, but come on. It's going to take more than 5 minutes to cut his hair. Once she was all done "cutting" his hair, it didn't even look like his hair was cut. In fact, it looked worse. I left Supercuts feeling like I had paid $9 for poop.

Casey quickly came to the rescue with some water and spiked Caden's hair straight up. If he's going to look ridiculous, it might as well be over the top.

Any suggestions? Where do you go to cut your little's one hair?

{Kristan, we miss you. Please come back}.

Juicy Title Here

2009-04-17T11:11:00.012-05:00

{These are the shoes I'm wearing today & I love them!}

Hello there and Happy Friday! I LOVE Fridays. Love them! I wanted to end the week with a couple random notes:

Do you remember my post yesterday about 'My Love Affair'? It has made me think that I need more juicier titles for my posts as people seem to click on them more.
Oprah is on twitter. Just for the record, I was on there first. Are you now hopping on the bandwagon? Tweet with me here. What? Don't get twitter? Think of it like one big texting mania. Everyone is able to see everyone's texts. Sounds strange, I know, but it's more helpful than you'd think. I use their search engine all the time on products, coupon codes and general information. It's people speaking their minds about the things they love and hate. Genius, right?

Caden is a pistol and should have been named toranado. And that is an understatement. In the evenings, I go from mess to mess and can hardly keep up. Gotta love him, though.

Exercise. Time for me to get back on that wagon. I'm feeling a little round around the edges lately. I'm so thankful the weather is getting nice. It's been hard to excerise when I can't take Caden with me.

Shoes. Did you notice the shoes I'm wearing today? {See above}. Love them or hate them? This seems to be a hot topic in our marriage right now. Not hot as in H-O-T. Hot as it I love them and he hates them. What do you think?

Vive le weekend!!

My love affair

2009-04-16T12:06:00.002-05:00

I know my love affair with paper is completely public and I'm not ashamed to show it. This sample sale at Egg Press is making my heart go pitter-patter. 10 unique letterpress cards for $10. Seriously, what a deal! Sale ends Monday, April 20th.

It would make a lovely Mother's Day gift, or something. Hint, hint.

{As seen on Black*Eiffel}

Conflicted

2009-04-14T12:06:00.005-05:00

{image via woolybaby}

I'm a little conflicted here today. The sun is shining and it gorgeous here, but I really want to buy my little toddler some of these slippers. Just because they are cute and not for any other reason. Fashion doesn't have to be completely functional, right??

{These totally go with cute little cargo shorts, right?} :)

A Happy Monday

2009-04-13T11:25:00.002-05:00

A happy Monday to everyone! I hope you had a wonderful Easter. Above is a sneak peek of my first redesign on Fresh Nest. Come on over and take a look at the design and let me know what you think.

Being a Mother

2009-04-10T07:45:00.002-05:00

{Caden,
nearly 14 months}

It's crazy to think that I have a little toddler. Everyday, motherhood is a little bit more fun, but also a little bit more challenging. There is no doubt that there is a reason why they come in small packages.

Have I changed since I've become a mother? Heck yeah. No doubt. But I do think that most of it is for the good. I am more decisive. I don't have time to really think about much these days. Do it is my motto. Don't think, just do.

I also don't eat like I used to. Long gone are the days when I would cook for fun. {And really, I wasn't very good at cooking anyways.} Being in the kitchen usually frustrates me. Except when I'm baking. I do love baking. {See my yummy apple cinnamon muffins here}. And I am more of a snacker these days. No time for meals. Graham crackers are my best friend lately.

I don't have a lot of time for myself these days and that's okay. Before Caden arrived, I was worried about whether Casey and I would still be the same and have a good time and I wondered whether I would still be able to have hobbies. Well we do and I do. It is a lot more work, but whenever you make something a priority it works.

I sure do love this little guy and just want to eat him up. Especially when he points at the moon and says, "bah" {ball}. It just melts my heart.

Vive le weekend!

Cute Bookworm Invitations

2009-04-08T07:15:00.001-05:00

Did you see these adorable bookworm invites posted on the Cookie blog today? Jordan Ferney of Oh Happy Day gives a step by step tutorial on how to recreate these. I'm really wishing I had an excuse to make these right now.

{image from the cookie blog}

Am I making you hungry?

2009-04-06T06:40:00.000-05:00

At Crystal & Matthew's wedding {Matthew is Casey's brother}, I was practicing my photo skills. One of the best ways to do this is to practice on still objects. I had a lot of fun taking pictures and thought some turned out really well. When Casey got home to download all the pictures, he thought I was just really, REALLY hungry at the reception.