The Modern Brady Bunch Family Blog

It's time.

2012-01-24T20:13:00.001-05:00

For some months I have been busy. Throwing myself into project after project. I started a part-time photography business. My sister married. Steve lost his job. Steve found a job. Steve decided to play basketball and shredded his knee. Steve is now out of work again. Yea, its been a roller coaster ride.

And I did what I always do. I retreated into myself. Like a turtle pulling back into its shell, I felt myself detach and float away, waiting for something that could tether me back to the Me that I was trying to find. These past few months I have been searching through the myriad files that lie dusty and unused in the recesses of my mind. Trying to find something, anything, that is proof of me. That defines me. That says: THIS IS ME. But I can't seem to find it. I can't see that file.

For too long I have ignored any quiet time with myself. And not lying in the bed reading. But doing something pleasing and physical- exercise of some sort. With the chaos that is always on the fringes, waiting to enshroud me in its consuming mist, I find myself too easily giving into the exhaustion that comes from my daily tasks. And you see, this is something I have figured out. I am exhausted mentally. Not so much physically. The chemicals that sing through my blood to help me focus during the day, those drugs that help me be a functioning adult with ADHD, begin to dissipate as I step across the threshold in the afternoon. And as they retreat, they leave a mind that worked hard all day long. To be focused and productive. To try and convince everyone that I am capable of being normal. To slow down the thoughts that race along the tracks of my mind and collide against the walls like stock cars in a pileup at Daytona. So, this afternoon, for the first time in days- the sun shone expectantly in the sky. Hanging, beckoning me to just put on some shoes and walk. And today, because it was a voice I could no longer ignore, I listened, and made the quick decision to drive to the park to walk. I turned on Pandora, streaming some soothing music, put the headphones in, and began to place one foot in front of the other. It had been so long since I had exercised I wasn't sure that my body would remember, or even worse- that it would rebel and sabotage my effort. But as one foot fell and then the other, with the music in my ears and the cool breeze that was stirring- well, I almost believe that I experienced Nirvana. (And NOT the music group!) But just as I was turning on the track, this caught my eye- the sun shining through the trees. And for just a second, it caught my breath.

And I realized that all those dusty files that I had been sifting through, I was trying to find a sense of peace. I can't lie (EVERYONE knows this)- I started feeling tears slide down my cheeks. I felt like screaming at the top of my lungs and running and jumping, but then I came back to my senses- Steve has a torn ACL- we don't need another one around here. And for that 40 minutes that I was out, just walking, I came away with a sense of stillness inside. And again, I won't lie. As the sun faded through the trees, and night started to creep its way toward me, I wanted nothing more than to turn the music up loud, roll the windows down, and ride until I could ride no more. But I can only keep the real world at bay for so long- so I started the car, turned toward home, and enjoyed my last few minutes of self indulgence.

And so my friends, I am finding my way back to you. I have missed you.

Wow….

2011-10-03T20:52:00.001-04:00

It's been a month since my last post. It hardly seems that much time has passed! But, it has….and we are living in life in full speed- so much has happened in a month that when I think back over that time, I can't believe that we have crammed it into a month! What has happened?

Addeline Rose

Our family welcomed ANOTHER baby into this crazy world. Addeline was the first daughter born to my youngest niece, Lynley. I, in typical Amanda-fashion, took the baby's first pictures. They turned out great, and my mom had knit a few props so that she would have some sweet baby portraits. Let me know what you think!

I have so many pictures to share over the next few weeks….we went to the beach, I shot a wedding, and we are wrapping up the wedding bonanza! Our days are so packed that it is hard to find time to sleep! Here's to the next week being behind us!

My Little Sis...

2011-09-03T22:24:00.001-04:00

I know, I know. We all grow up. We all get older. But she is my baby sister. She is the one who used to tell me what she wanted, then stuck her thumb in her mouth while I went to tell our parents. She was the one who was always there. She saw my disappointments- like failed marriages and broken dreams, she was there for my celebrations- when my children were born and my college graduation. We shared a room when we were little, we were playmates, we were enemies, we were two female teenagers in the same house, we were partners in crime- she was my best friend. Only 19 months apart, we never knew life without the other. And now. Well, now- she is getting married. So, for her (and TOTALLY not because I love doing it) I took my new camera (ummmm...yeah, we haven't discussed that yet- in another post....) and shot her bridal portraits. Here are the results:

She is gorgeous, and made it rather easy- what do you think?

Small Town Friday Night

2011-08-27T21:40:00.001-04:00

The roar of the crowd, the shine of the lights, sitting with thousands of others cheering on the home team. There is nothing like a southern small town Friday night. I went to support my stepson, Alex- he is in the band (currently the largest marching band in the state), and I took my camera along for the ride. I am not really that interested in the game itself, but I love people watching- and hiding behind a camera is a great way to do that and not be considered a freak!

The football stadium of my alma mater- Boiling Springs High School.

I was in the marching band for two years- I love the sparkliness of the Sousaphones and all the brass instruments.

The cheerleaders- I love the pictures of the kids- they always look so full of life- it makes me want to yell at them to enjoy life- stop trying to grow up! It also reminds me of my junior and senior years as a cheerleader (I cheered for basketball- I know- Is my ADHD that obvious?).

The stadium lights coming on as the sun sets.

Our mascot, the Bulldog, watching our team lose. Sigh. Boiling Springs never seems to lose hope that we will one day have a winning football team.

And the students- they call themselves the "DAWG Pound"....well they come out every week regardless.

Parents come and work countless hours in the sweltering, smothering heat so that the Band & Athletic Booster Clubs will earn enough money to give their children the experiences of a lifetime.

Cheerleaders like these hand out programs- these two girls were really sweet- and wanted to know where I was posting the pictures. Email me at atblanton78@yahoo.com girls- and I will get them to you!

I love those genuine moments- the smiles that come from being young and happy....

The simple fun of a child.....

The evidence of fun and friendship.....

The roar of a whole community coming out to support all these young athletes.....

The silliness and theater of the mascots entertaining the crowd......

And a band that puts on an amazing half-time show. Some things never change!

Alex never takes his eyes off the drum major- which I would say is a good thing!

A family friend's daughter- and I swear it is like looking back in time- she looks so much like her mother! It was her rookie performance with the Color Guard and she did a wonderful job!

And last but certainly not least- my little cousin Sadie. She has such beautiful eyes! She was a little tired - but enjoyed the game!

I usually never go back to watch football games, because let's be honest- unless I was there because I was in band, but when I get there, I love seeing my community under the glare of those bright stadium lights. I love peering through my camera and seeing the interactions between them, the people I have known most of my life. It sounds weird, and voyeuristic- and maybe it is. But I don't mean it that way. Usually I complain about living in a small town, and the lack of almost everything that would make it a REAL place- but those moments caught behind my camera make me love my community. The nostalgic roots take hold and I remember what it was like for me, and how much I LOVED my school. I LOVED high school. I loved my teachers, my friends, I just loved life! I remember the feeling of promise, of invincibility. The idea that my future was there- I just had to reach, stretch out my hand, and take hold of all that was waiting for me.

I might just plan to go more than once every couple of years!

A Hard Week

2011-08-17T22:41:00.001-04:00

Oh boy....this week has been tough. To start- this past Saturday, Sophie turned 6. 6!!! I can't believe it! I feel that time is beginning to slip through my fingers and that I miss so much. I found this picture when we were moving- Sophie was about 13 months old.

(Excuse the picture OF a picture here- it was on my phone, so I just took a quick snap of it!). Are those not the sweetest baby cheeks ever? She was so tiny.....And now- just look at these three- on their FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL!

Sophie started 1st grade, Abby started 3rd, and {gulp} Savannah started 7th. I couldn't help it- Monday I was pretty much an emotional wreck. Add to it that I had our Meet the Teacher at my school so it meant driving back and forth (I drove about 150 miles on Monday- driving the girls to school, picking them up, and going back and forth to work) and when I got home I had a HUGE headache. Like bordering a migraine (which I have only begun to have in recent years). So, doing what any SANE person would do to get in front of the PAIN...

I took a lortab. (These make me incredibly sleepy....but it takes care of the headache!).

And then Savannah comes in with a paper, and says, "Oh, I forgot to tell you- my Science teacher gave me a homework assignment for YOU." Great. After the lortab? This was going to be tricky. I opened my eye (two eyes at the same time would have been too much light). It read:

In a Million Words or Less- Tell Me About Your Child!

And that was it.

No directions. Just that line. Oh boy. After the lortab. And I was emotional. So I grabbed the computer, absconded with it to my bedroom (because the lortab also meant that I couldn't sit up and type, one must do this in a reclining fashion....preferably while being fed grapes and fanned with palm fronds, but this was minus the grapes and palm frond...), and began to write. And as I wrote, I started crying. And then I felt like I was some horrible parody. But I couldn't stop crying. I would like to blame it on the lortab. And the start of school. And Sophie turning 6. And Savannah turning 12. And I think someone dropped me when I was a baby. That may have covered all the culpable parties.

I emailed it to the teacher. And then, I made sure to let her know that a million sorries accompanied it, that I was a little emotional. It was kind of crazy.

But it was true. Maybe lortab unlocks my inner writer. Instead of being like Faulkner, who wrote drunk most of the time, maybe I can write when I have migraines and lortab. Here's to hoping the teacher doesn't think I am looney (no one here needs to clue her in, okay?)!

Guess What?

2011-08-12T23:01:00.001-04:00

I just visited Google Analytics.....I don't know why I really bother- I haven't visited in a year. So, imagine my surprise, and pride, when I saw this in my keyword referral: foreclosure fraud. That's right....SUCK IT, Citimortgage!!!!

Sorry, I know that is an example of bad manners, and my parents didn't raise me that way, but it made me SMILE!

Forget summer lovin'….let's talk summer crafting!

2011-08-09T22:24:00.001-04:00

*Hopefully someone out there remembers, "Summer Lovin'" from Grease....*

I start back to school tomorrow (commence crying NOW) and I wanted to share some pictures of a few of the things I have made this summer. I have been able to get a good bit done- although my new craft area is a lot smaller in the new house! Please excuse some of these pictures, because a lot of them are straight from the camera on my phone! :)

I tried my hand at screenprinting. This was a shirt that I made for brother in law, Shawn. Ever see the honey badger video on youtube? It's hilarious!

A pair of jeans that had become to short for my sweet Abby became a cute skirt!

Please don't be too critical...denim is a tough son of a gun!

Sophie's binder cover for her 1st grade binder. (This was her idea!)

A 'mini' maxi dress for Sophie.

Another pair of jeans that were recycled for a pair of shorts.

I love the flower! (Notice the tie-dyed shirt? That was a family craft project one saturday!)

Our old kitchen table with wood filler in all the little holes...

The after.....I love it!

A stand for my washer & dryer that now has laundry baskets underneath where the kids must sort their own dirty clothes. (The plywood on the bottom has been painted black). I did not make this- I took the plan to my dad and he had it built for me! Love that man!

The beginnings of a precious beach tote.....

And the beach tote being used....

This summer has been eventful, but obviously I have had my hands full with all the crafts that I have been doing! What has kept you busy this summer?

In the interest of keeping it real-

2011-07-28T18:37:00.001-04:00

Life is messy. Life sucks. Life knocks the breath out of you. Then, somehow- you catch your breath. You look around and realize, I might make it. And then you hear the ding of the bell that signals the end of the round and you can chalk one up in your win column, or at the very least you can say it was a draw.

The last couple of months, hell, maybe the last year- has knocked me around like a ship being tossed among the stormy seas. I don't know where to start. Well, I do-

A year ago Steve and I checked into a loan remodification on our house. I know- now I know this is a scam. But then, it sounded good. We had been late on some payments, primarily when Steve was overseas in Afghanistan, because of the dates of his pay differing, but nothing crazy. Then, we were told that our house payment was going up - I forget the excuse that was used. By that point, our house payment was $1200 bucks a month. Seriously? For a cookie cutter house that was poorly designed and constructed. So, we checked into the loan remodification. We were told that in order to go through with this we had to have legal representation. So, we paid American Residential $1,500 of our hard earned money to be the mediators between us and Citimortgage. Our contact was Brian Brown and we had several conversations with him. It wasn't long until we began receiving calls from Citimortgage, the Loan Remodification Department- some angry woman named Lisa would call and yell at us (I am not exagerrating), then we were told by this Lisa that there was absolutely no way to contact her. We had to call some number, leave a message and hope she contacted us back. Lisa also set up this extremely abbreviated timeline, saying that if we didn't sign and return the papers that that she faxed us that the deal was done and we would be screwed. So, in a nervous mess I took the agreement that she faxed us and started looking through it. Now, $1,200 bucks a month for a house payment was a lot, but we made it. I mean, sometimes it was a struggle, but we were able to do that. Lisa's "Agreement" and remodification agreement had some interesting fine print in it. One of the finer points was that we were to pay our regular payment PLUS $1,200 bucks a month. Now, to me, that seems like a total payment of $2,400 a month. Maybe my math is off, but we were wanting to lower our payments. When I called Brian, at American Residential, he said for me to not sign it, fax it to him, and he would call me back. I found this interesting that the mortgage company told us that we needed someone to represent us, but Lisa would call us, yell, and then tell us she couldn't talk to him. Or yell at him. She could only torture us. So, in the meantime, Lisa calls me and asks why I haven't faxed the papers to her yet- I tell her of the fine print and that wasn't acceptable to us. She then proceeds to yell at me some more, throw some things around in the background, say some cuss words, call me some names, and tell me that it was just a mistake and she would send me a new one. Finally, we reached an agreement.

Fast forward six months-

Steve and I had faithfully made those loan remod payments- even sent the money as certified funds so there could be no discrepancies in the time that the payments posted and the availabitlity of funds (Citimortgage is notorious for holding payments). December 23rd, while getting ready for all the Christmas festivities about to rain down upon us, we receive a phone call from Citimortgage stating that we were in foreclosure and that our home would be sold on December 29th. We then find out that instead of applying our payments to our loan balance, Citimortgage had held our payments the past four months, purposefully putting us into Foreclosure. Could this be legal? Hell no, it is not. But nonetheless, the mortgage companies operate outside of the law. We hadn't been served foreclosure papers, so I knew that their claim of selling our house was crap. And I told them so. At first, they told us that we owed another $3,000 in fees. By January, we owed $8,000 and then by February they told us we owed around $20,000 in fees in addition to the payments not paid. But they had the money for those payments. Because they weren't applied to our loan balance it showed us as still owing it, so in effect we owed about $25,000 in fees and payments. Now, I am not sure about a lot of you. But I don't have that kind of money sitting around. About March we were finally served foreclosure papers and were told that our house would be sold. Citimortgage wouldn't talk to us, the legal office that was doing the foreclosure was actually a firm used by the big mortgage companies exclusively for this, so they weren't going to talk to us. In the end we just let it go.

Because the house is just a building.

And I have learned so much from this process. Because of my obsessive compulsive tendencies I began researching the current foreclosure crisis. And I found that we are not alone. This is happening on a frightening scale all over the country. Families are being forced out of their homes, the government agencies Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae are often purchasing them at sale, making our government the largest homeowners in the nation, and then they are resold and remortgaged. Hoping against hope that we forget that our taxpayer dollars bailed these mortgage companies out during the 2008 crisis- meaning as taxpayers- we have already paid for our houses. It is so messed up.

So why am I telling you this?

Well, for one- I wanted you to understand why my blogging has been few and far between. We have been working against the clock trying to get our ducks in a row so that we could move. 2- I believed that others might be going through the same thing. If someone googles foreclosure, citimortgage assholes, mortgage fraud, I want this post to pop up. Our story is not the only one like this out there. And #3- writing is cathartic. Last week, during our moving (which also coincided with a great southern heatwave), I thought I might have a nervous breakdown. I was stressed, worried about the kids, and worried about everything in general. And then I had to settle, and when I did, the pieces fell into place.

I know....

There are going to be people who will say, "You shouldn't have been in a house you couldn't afford." or "This is what happens when you don't pay your bills." But it isn't that simple. Could we have been more fiscally responsible? Sure. Can't we all? Are we in credit card debt up to our ears? No- we don't have any credit cards. To put it crudely- we got screwed.

Helping others-

If you are in this situation I advise you to locate your original mortgage. Your copy that you signed on closing. Ask for a mortgage representative to present their copy of the original mortgage. If they can't- everything they do from there can be considered mortgage fraud. These companies are robbing people everyday- call someone who can help. There are agencies (you can search for them on the internet) that can help you legally and help you research your situation. Don't try to handle it on your own like we did.

How are we?

You may not care. But you may. And we are okay. We have moved. We are in a smaller house- but I love it. It's an old ranch style house, and while it is cramped, we are together. We are renting right now, in hopes that something great will come along, but if it doesn't- we will still be okay. I have had to let go of a lot. The idea that everything needs to be perfect, the idea that on this blog I need to represent myself as a happy mommy/craft blogger. While I am happy a lot, life isn't always so kind. And I don't need to short change my readers. Because surprisingly, I am lucky enough to have become friends with a lot of you out there that read my blog.

Our home is truly where our family is, and for that lesson, I am thankful.

I would also like to say that I couldn't have gotten through the last few months without my family- namely my father. He reminds me everyday of the sacrifice a parent makes for their child, inspires me to be more, and makes me believe it might be possible.

Okay....

2011-07-11T21:33:00.001-04:00

So, maybe I took a long break. Let's just call it a mini-sabbatical! But have I been sitting on my laurels doing nothing? I think not! We have had so many projects since school ended- we refinished the kitchen table, made tie-dyed t-shirts, I have sewn some outfits, made wedding invitations, you name it....I have been working on it! I will be posting pictures soon! Thanks for not forgetting about me!

Scared to Death

2011-05-09T18:14:00.001-04:00

Have you ever woke up and thought it was a different day? On Saturday morning I woke up to the sound of my alarm going off at 6:45 am. I know, you are wondering why in the world I had set an alarm on a Saturday morning and I have one word to offer you.....SOCCER! It has totally consumed every Saturday since March, but it is almost over. However, I digress. I was at waking up to an alarm on a Saturday. I must have been in dreamland, because I looked at the clock, saw that it was 6:45, and jumped and yelled, "Oh my gooooddddddd.....I am soooo late!" ( You see, I thought that it was Monday morning. And a 6:45 wakeup call would be a dire emergency, because I have to put boots to the road at 6:55. ) Then, I think that I was running around frantically, yelling, "Sophie, get up! We have to go!" I am grabbing the toothbrush, running to the closet to find clothes, when I realize that she isn't answering me.

"Sophie, honey- GET UP! I need you to be a big girl and help mommy!" (Yeah, this still doesn't usually work, but I was panicking!)

So, I march into Sophie's room and proceed to pull the covers back- and she wasn't there! Now, my heart was thundering...you could practically hear it! I ran to my room to start pounding the covers (because sometimes she likes to sneak in my bed after Steve leaves). I pick up the phone to dial 911, because I couldn't find my kid!

And just as I thought I was going to experience a heart attack, I remembered- it was Saturday! And not just any Saturday- it was a kid-free Saturday....she was at her dad's!

I felt like I had run a marathon, and wanted to crawl back in bed....but I had to get ready for soccer!

I hate waking up like that!

Proof that I still own a sewing machine!

2011-04-20T18:07:00.001-04:00

I have been so lax about blogging lately! I would like to say that I see plans for that improving in the future- but with the end of school fast approaching- life seems to start moving in fast forward for the next few weeks. I have been trying to make some spring and summer clothes for the girls. So far, I have finished four pair of capris for Sophie. (Please pardon the fuzzy, downright awful picture- I haven't been able to get her to stand still so that she could model them for me!) I know, I should do better- but I am not fighting a sinus/allergy issue, and I have a field trip with Savannah's orchestra to Carowinds on Friday. ( I am so excited, I can hardly stand it- I know you hear it, right?) I have been working on a few other projects, but it is slow going. Hopefully I will have some complete for you to see soon.

I am enjoying my Spring break while my children are all in school! (One of the few times working in another district can be good!) Because of the allergy/sinus issues I have found myself ling on the couch and filling myself full of Zyrtec, Sudafed, and anything else that will help with the sneezing, runny eyes, and sinus pressure!

Hope spring is being nicer to you than it is to me!

Charleston Field Trip

2011-04-10T18:28:00.001-04:00

Every year, our fourth grade always makes the journey for an overnight field trip to Charleston, SC. This year, as always, we had so much fun. I can't, of course, show you pictures of students- but I can share some pictures of Charleston that I took while there!

This is the Avenue of Oaks that you travel down to get to Boone Hall Plantation. It has been used in several movies, but the one I remember the best, was the miniseries North vs. South.

The azaleas were amazing. They were all vibrant and full of color. They were also HUGE!

The U.S. Customs House is a central meeting point for us. We meet there for our tours. I always love the architectural accents that it has. I also love the story behind it. That it took years to build, and over three million dollars...and it was finished in 1879!

Everything was in full bloom. EVERYTHING. Needless to say, by the end of our carriage ride I could hardly breathe without sneezing, both of my eyes were swollen, and I looked as if I had been crying for days. Nice.

This is a historic house downtown that we passed on our carriage tour. I love how all of the walled gardens look inviting and cool. They are lethal- a virtual hotbed of pollen waiting to assault my allergies.

Another flower. I know, I just loved the amazing color of it. I don't even know what the name of it is.

These two are of the Ravenel Bridge that crosses the Cooper River. I took this picture looking off the deck of the S.C. Aquarium. I love all the blues.

And this is a tidal inlet. It's kind of smelly. But isn't it beautiful?

**I have tried to post a couple of times over the past weeks, but it always seems that Charter is down, or running slowly- and Blogger times out before anything can be posted. I have invested in an app that acts a lot like Windows Live Writer, so that I can write and put the pictures in the post, and then upload to the blog. Hopefully this will take care of all those stupid Charter issues. :) **

Back in the saddle....

2011-03-12T07:47:00.002-05:00

Whoa! I have been in self imposed exile for a little too long! Do you ever intend just to take a break, and it stretches out indefinitely.....and then after a break, it turns into a hiatus....I had to get back here before it turned into a sabbatical! So, I am getting "back in the saddle" and letting y'all know that I am still around. I have still been crafting, and we have officially started soccer with 5 out of the 6 kids. Alex was in the regional spelling bee- and lost in the first round (if you see, him....let him know you just got a MANICURE ....that is the word he missed....he lives with five females???). Sophie is doing great but still trying to play the victim...I think I actually heard her say, "That was a mean thing to say since I was just in the hospital!" She is trying to play that card for all it was worth! And get this- Savannah broke her tailbone two weeks ago roller skating. She has decided that roller skating may not be her forte.

I am also having a little bit of sadness here....Sophie is now tying her shoes. I know, this is great, and independent.....and all that CRAP. What tying her shoes means- MY BABY IS GROWING UP! When she did it for the first time- I teared up. And I am not overly emotional. She asked me what was wrong and I let her know that I was sad because she is my last baby and she is getting so independent. But really, I think it came out more like me crying and saying, "You're so big!!!! You are not going to need me for anything anymore! Soon, you'll be cooking your own meals!" I never said I didn't go overboard, now did I? She looked at me like I was insane (that is to be debated-certainly not for a five year old to decide) and just said, "Will you stop?" Then, because it was Dr. Seuss' birthday, she climbed up on the couch with me and read me a Dr. Seuss book. Yep, she read it to me. The signs are everywhere. Sophie is growing up! Then, after all this....I had to take Savannah to her Junior High Orientation. Someone needs to get me a time machine! There is no way my first baby is old enough to be doing this! But she is. It was just a little too much to take in a two week span!

I am so glad I did this....really, I am. Blogging is therapeutic sometimes, and I didn't realize how much I have had going on! I am going to go photograph some of the projects I have been doing so that I can post them......it is going to take some rummaging to find everything....I may not be the most organized person!

Thanks...

2011-01-31T14:49:00.001-05:00

I cannot express how thankful I am to have such great friends, family, and co-workers. The love that they have shown for my family and myself simply continue to amaze me. Last Wednesday Sophie underwent an EP Study at MUSC in Charleston, SC. She received wonderful care, and the team that took care of her was absolutely wonderful-but knowing that your baby is in a room with catheters digging around in her arteries and little wires running through her heart, it's just a little unnerving. Okay, maybe more than a little. Sophie was in the Cath Lab for almost 8 hours, but her doctor wouldn't stop and they were finally able to locate the area in her heart that was causing all the problems. They were able to perform a cryoablation (freezing the area) and she is now no longer considered to have Wolff Parkinson White Syndrome! This is great- it means that she now has no restrictions on her diet (we had to make sure that she didn't get too much sugar and caffeine) and hopefully (after our checkup) no more cardiologist visits! Here are some pictures from our time in Charleston.

Sophie, with her nurse Dan. Dan was absolutely wonderful and worked really hard to win Sophie's trust.

Sophie on Thursday, before we left for home. She was glad to be outside for a little bit in a stroller! She felt like a jailbird walking the yard!

Sophie playing with the toys that the Child Life Specialist brought to explain her procedure to her. The way they help children understand the whole process is amazing.

We are so lucky to have been surrounded by good thoughts, blessings, and kind words from everyone we have encountered. Thanks from our WHOLE crew!

Sketchbook Challenge

2011-01-31T14:39:00.003-05:00

I don't always like to post pictures of the things that I do. I am not shy. Not at all. But, sometimes, opening yourself up to that kind of criticism can be, well.....daunting. I decided to enter a sketchbook challenge. Now the challenge is taking place throughout the whole year. But, I am only committing to one month at a time. Its's just how I roll. Over at www.sketchbookchallenge.blogspot.com you can learn the monthly themes and then enter your photo in a flickr group to be seen by others participating. This is my sketchbook page for this months theme, Highly Prized. What do you think?

Serious Business

2011-01-19T20:20:00.003-05:00

I have tried to not think about it, because I felt that it was far enough in the future that I didn't need to worry myself about it yet. I know you don't know what IT is...and that is what I am trying to get to ....okay...Sophie, my five year old (playing my iPad with her Lamby, above) has a heart condition known as Wolff Parkinson White Syndrome, or WPW. This was identified when she underwent Open Heart Surgery for an Atrial Septal Defect at 7 months old. On Tuesday, January 26th Sophie will travel to the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC to undergo an EP study. This is done by arterial cath and will take about 5 to 6 hours. While this is nowhere near as big as her Open Heart Surgery, it is still quite nerve wracking to know that I am going to have to turn my five year old over to a stranger. So, if you will just excuse me for the next few days....I am gearing up to be a nervous wreck. :)

A Snowcation!

2011-01-11T09:04:00.004-05:00

**This post was actually written on Jan. 12 but due to a Blogger problem I didn't get it loaded until today!**

Yes, yes....you read that right, folks! I am at home today (I will probably be at home tomorrow, too) because here in the South we were the recipients of some serious snow. And then last night, we had some freezing rain on top of it. That, along with the cold temperatures, means we aren't going anywhere too soon- it's the South....we don't have all that fancy snow equipment! It also calls for some serious fun! We went sledding yesterday, and will probably do so today. With the ice over it I am sure we can get some serious speed! I was able to snap a few pictures yesterday, but not many. The snow was still falling, and we all know my camera is old, people. I don't want to take too many chances with it and moisture! I was able to get these two-

Aren't they cute? We had lots of fun- as I am sure that every other school-free child in our area did!

Merry, Merry Christmas!!!

2010-12-25T22:52:00.004-05:00

This Christmas seemed almost magical to those of us south of the Mason-Dixon line because, for the first time since 1963, it snowed on Christmas. This is something that no one ever thinks they are going to see. I remember asking my dad about in a revered tone, as if it was something called down from the heavens. And he, of course, shrugged his shoulders in his typical way, and said it was snow. But today, this is something that my children will be able to remember their whole life. And let me just say, it did seem otherworldly, the sound of everything muffled by the pockets of air, the ethereal glow that transformed the ordinary into the extraordinary, and the feeling of joy that snow brings kids.

*Sophie was the only one who cared about going outside...she wanted to try out her new mittens!**

Christmas morning found us early- one kid woke another, who woke another, and before we knew it- we found ourselves going downstairs at 6:45 to see what Santa had left our little munchkins. When we got downstairs, the kids found only two or three gifts wrapped, along with their newly made stockings full of goodies. They were appreciative, they were loving the clothes and other goodies....but then....

**Please excuse the blurriness of these pictures due to the low light and high action shots as the scramble for gifts took place**

they were completely UNDERwhelmed. They didn't say it, but you could tell. After waiting for that climactic moment, when their disappointment was almost palpable, Steve and I let the kids know that there was one final present that Santa had left but since they were all the same- they had to open them at the same time. And two seconds later they found out that Santa had left.....
each child an iPod Touch! We were completely mobbed by our kids. They kept saying, "We wanted one, but we didn't think we would ever GET one!" It's funny how saving all year, waiting in line on Black Friday for 7 hours, almost coming to blows with someone in line (another story for another day) was validated by that one reaction! (And just to let you know- I got an iPad for Christmas!!)

I hope your holidays are just as magical as ours!

Handmade Christmas...

2010-12-22T08:30:00.005-05:00

I love being able to make things for family and friends during the holidays. My list is still too long, and for the next three days (while my husband and children are cleaning the house-Steve has posted his marching orders in every room of the house....and yes, I said posted. They are taped in each room so they know what to do) I will pretty much be sitting in my craft room trying to beat the clock. I can't show everything I do, because a lot of the people that I am making a gift for will be viewing my blog. But I can show you a baby onesie that I finished last night. Wanna see? (Once again- that nonsense inquisitive dialog that requires no answer from you and affirms that I will do what I want to do).

I love the retro look of it! What do you think?

A piece of my soul....or My First Print EVER!

2010-12-21T21:42:00.002-05:00

My sister Carmie is pursuing an art degree (she is just one class away from being finished with her undergrad!) and her favorite classes have been printmaking. So during our "Book Club" Christmas Party we decided to make our own prints- she was going to show us how....and this is one of the two that I completed. Now, I have no idea where the little figure came from - I just saw it when I was looking at the page of text and went with it. The original figure (background) that I colored on the plexiglass was a prokaryotic cell, which is much distorted after manipulating the water-soluble wax pastels. Using the cell idea, I made the head an actual eye (always reminds me of Monsters, Inc!) and then titled it Evolution. Don't ask me my thought process- it was about midnight and I was just having fun. Still...what do you think?

Christmas Pictures.....

2010-12-20T21:33:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, I had the chance to take some pictures of my two NEW great nieces, Emory and Emilia- or Em & Em. They were so precious and I had tons of fun! I also always love to practice my picture takin' skills (otherwise called photography by professionals).

Tomorrow I am going to show you a piece of my soul. Okay, not really. I am going to show you a print that I did with Carmie yesterday. It is my first print ever. Promise not to laugh?

Happy Holidays to You!

2010-12-18T14:38:00.002-05:00

Small Town Christmas Parade

2010-12-11T21:50:00.005-05:00

The beginning.....

What's a parade without horses?

Poor Grinch!

Every Santa should ride a Harley! Doesn't yours?

Amy & I LOVED this old school bike!

This photo is for Justin- he was drooling over this car.....

Justin and Savannah

Harper

My LP, Amy

The start of the parade- everyone in one spot!

Doggy (with a freaky eye)

Devin

Caitlin

Abby

Sophie

I can live without...

2010-12-11T14:37:00.002-05:00

December 11 – 11 Things What are 11 things your life doesn’t need in 2011? How will you go about eliminating them? How will getting rid of these 11 things change your life? (Author: Sam Davidson)

Starting this post, I am amazed at how hard it is to find 11 things that I could live without. What 11 things could I do without that would improve my life?

1-Financial troubles-isn't this true for everyone?

2-Laundry- If I could come home and find my laundry neatly folded and put away- sweet lord- that would add hours back to my life.

3-Disrespect-I am a teacher. I think that perhaps this would be true of any teacher- when we, as parents, teach children to respect others, we are three-quarters of the way to completing our job. Respect regardless of race, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, or age. RESPECT.

4-Chuck E. Cheese's - I want to stab myself in the eye with a fork just thinking about it. UGH.

5-Unfairness-In a perfect world- all should be fair. And that is what I am aiming for with this, right?

6-Corruptness-Speaks for itself

7-Charging so much for a popcorn and a drink at the movies. C'mon-the markup on that is about 10,000%!

8-Car Troubles-which tie in with #1

9-Smallmindedness-yes, this ties in with #3....But when people look beyond what they know, open their mind, and agree that their may be another viewpoint....well, then there would be no war, right?

10-Politicians- We could seriously do without these. I mean, who doesn't agree that ALL of Washington, regardless of party, have lost touch with us?

11-Abuse-of any kind-no child, woman, man, etc. should have to worry about being safe from someone else. Unless one of my kids disobeys me. Then they should run. :)

Wisdom? Me? Nah.

2010-12-10T23:39:00.002-05:00

December 10- Wisdom. What was the wisest decision you made this year, and how did it play out?

Well, no one can ever accuse me of being wise. Heck, I am only 32! I have always heard the word wise connected with the word old. Wise old owl. Old and wise. You get my drift. I just do not feel that I am old enough to be considered wise. But have I done something wise? Maybe. I would at least categorize it as smart. What is it? No, it's not anything like investing in Johnson & Johnson (with 6 kids and 4 of them girls I feel this would be a WISE investment). Or even giving someone wise advice. I cannot claim to be a sage. But, I will say that this summer, I took control of our money situation. Now, this does not always mean that our ends meet. It doesn't mean that we are always on top of the money situation. But you don't know this about me- well maybe you do. I am AWFUL with money. I used to be afraid to look at the checking account. Heck, Now I just know- we are broke. :) I am okay with that. But I now don't have to worry about bills being paid. Or just how much money we need to cover this and that. It gets done. And it made for a lot less stress. Stress between Steve and myself (because really, with six kids....don't we have enough?), stress about what we needed to get by. Now, I just wish we had more of it! :) But this is where I say we have each other, and isn't that enough?

Rocking My Socks....

2010-12-09T21:02:00.003-05:00

December 9 - Party. What social gathering rocked your socks off in 2010? Describe the people, music, food, drink, clothes, shenanigans.

I can't help it. Rocking my socks off? That makes me giggle. 2010 has been a busy, hard year. Full of sweat, kids, and work. But through it all, any time the Book Club decided to take a field trip- it always has been worth the time and effort! I know that you are thinking, "Book Club?!" but I am telling you- you want to be a part of this book club! Amy and Carmie- you make everytime we get together a good time. I am not sure where I would be without you two in my life!

Beautifully Different

2010-12-08T19:20:00.002-05:00

December 8 – Beautifully Different. Think about what makes you different and what you do that lights people up. Reflect on all the things that make you different – you’ll find they’re what make you beautiful. (Author: Karen Walrond)

I am going to preface this- wait! Have you noticed I preface things and add disclaimers a lot? Is this just another way of me saying "I am sorry" all the time? Ugh. Okay- I will face that issue later. For now- follow the prompt!

I have a hard time being nice to myself. It bothers others sometimes. I know it does. I can't help it. I have that self-deprecating humor that sometimes can even make people uncomfortable. What I am trying to say is: SAYING SOMETHING NICE ABOUT MYSELF IS HARD, PEOPLE!

To make it a little easier, I tried to quiz my friends (close friends, mind you- that would be truthful but not hurtful) about what sets me apart from others to them. I will tell you a few choice words that came up:

1-Loyal

I am loyal. To a fault. I know this about myself. But I also feel that if you are family, or my friend, and I have made that commitment to you- you deserve my loyalty. If you are my friend- I will stick by you to the end. My ship will go down with yours. If you are close enough to be considered family (and I would do this for my family) you know that this girl is ready to rumble for you. Always. I believe in loyalty. I try to instill that in my children. And because of that, I wouldn't try to mess with any one of them (not because of me- they are a posse).

2-Generous

If you need a shirt, and I have one on my back- ask for it- it will be yours. Sometimes, you may not even have to ask. Time, money- you name it, I have given it. Not always deservingly- but I believe in giving of yourself, investing, to make sometime meaningful.

3-Creative

I love to create things. I may not post tutorials to things on my blog (except my one project jar tutorial and let us all pause to give a good hardy-har-har to that), but I love making things. Cards, bags, clothes, this list could go on and on and on. Long ago, before the kids sucked me dry of any intelligent thoughts, I loved to write. My dream is to write a book. I don't know the subject matter yet. Any ideas?

4-Outgoing

My GD (a.k.a. Granny Dean) used to tell me that I could make friends with a brick wall. And that somehow, I could make that brick wall talk back to me. Except, I don't remember her saying it in a nice way. In fact it was more of like, "I am exasperated because you talk to much and don't ever shut up" voice. Yeah, that was probably it.

What do I do that lights people up? I am not sure. I can't answer that. And maybe, I didn't really answer the question to begin with- I asked my friends. But I told you that I didn't like rules that much, and aren't they made to be broken?

Reverb 10- Heard of it?

2010-12-07T20:36:00.002-05:00

I read a few different blogs....maybe 20, 30....oh! Who's counting? I love discovering new blogs and getting to know someone through their writing. When I was younger, and sat through writing class, we were always instructed to use prompts. I never really minded writing to a prompt. I always saw it as more of a challenge. Maybe not as instantly gratifying as pouring out my soul here. Now, I love writing on this blog. I love for it to be spontaneous, off the cuff, and candid. But there is this challenge, called Reverb 10- and I love the idea of it. For the 31 days of December you have a daily prompt to let you reflect on the year and what has happened in it. So I thought this might be a good, creative way for me to reflect on my past year. Anyone else up for it? Now, I am issuing this disclaimer: Sometimes I tend to be a little rebellious. I don't like anyone telling me what to do. But I am going to dive in and hope for the best!

I missed the first 6 days (obviously) So I am going to make my own rules here and just pick one prompt from days 1-7 and then will pick up with 8 tomorrow. How does that sound? Good to everyone? Yeah, I know- one reason I like blogging-when I am typing this out, the only response I hear is from myself! :)

December 1 – One Word. Encapsulate the year 2010 in one word. Explain why you’re choosing that word. Now, imagine it’s one year from today, what would you like the word to be that captures 2011 for you? (Author: Gwen Bell)

One word for the whole year? That's a tough one! I would say one word for this year would be GROWTH. I am a very introspective and reflective person. It's just me- it's who I am. Just when everyone has moved on to something more interesting, I am still analyzing everything to get to the REAL root of the problem. This year, I have become more comfortable with who I am. I have given myself some modicum of acceptance, allowing me to step back and understand that it is okay for someone to love me. It's okay for me to love myself. You have no idea what that has taken for me to say that out loud.

Every single day of every year I am confronted with the growth of my children. I think this year- with Sophie starting kindergarten- I am (more than ever) slapped around by this. I know this sounds crazy, but watching Toy Story 3 this summer, when Andy leaves for college- I was floored by how emotional I was. You would have thought Andy was my child leaving for college. I know that they grow quickly. I am trying to remember that and savor all the time with them that I can.

So yeah, GROWTH wins. I would just like to say, when I turned 30 I really noticed huge changes in my attitude. I became aware that I no longer sat at the kids table at my parents, I was an adult, and I could have opinions and definite thoughts on things. Turning 30 was empowering. Each year that heaps on top of that just reinforces my need to speak up for myself, to not become lost. Astrologically speaking, they call it a Return to Saturn. I just like to think of it as growing up.

Wedded Bliss!

2010-12-05T10:08:00.005-05:00

I have been absent this week because I was making sure all of our last minute preparations were done for Steve's brother's wedding. I normally am all over the picture taking but yesterday, I was so busy- I hardly had time to pick up my camera! This is basically about the best of what I got....I will post more when we get them from the photographer!

We wish Shawn & Celeste the best of everything that life has to offer!

A few pictures.....

2010-11-28T16:09:00.005-05:00

I have been wanting to take some pictures of the kids for a while. Well, since the beginning of fall. And....today I got my chance! I took the kids downtown and let them do their thing. I wanted to share with you a few of my favorites. Let me know what you think!

Family Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-25T16:47:00.001-05:00

Give Thanks...

2010-11-25T09:32:00.002-05:00

Okay, so the pilgrims didn't have turkeys on their tables- most likely. And they definitely didn't have green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, or cheesecake. But they were thankful just to make it through. And that's kind of how I feel, too. There are so many wonderful things that find their way into my life. Family, friends....they make my life colorful and exciting. Sometimes maybe too exciting...but what's a little anxiety attack every now and then? Co-workers and a job that never gives me a dull moment. My health (not one emergency surgery or sickness this year), and the health of my loved ones. Staying married, not hurting my children, being able to still feed them on our meager budget- these are all things that I am thankful for. (I would like to include my craft room among those things!). What are you thankful for on this Thanksgiving Day?

Happy Turkey Day!

Wanna hear something funny?

2010-11-23T20:57:00.002-05:00

Abby was hanging out with me in my bedroom tonight (Tuesday night is Steve's night to watch Sons of Anarchy- I don't much care for it) so she was on the floor searching around. She's a scavenger....what can I say? That kid can find anything if you hide it! She was looking behind our nightstand and found one of the monitor speakers. Yes. You heard right. Baby monitor. We haven't even turned it on in years. Yes, I have cleaned my bedroom....It just used to sit on the nightstand.....Anyway she asked if she could have it. Being the sweet mom I am I told her sure- I could take something off her Santa list now. :) As I am writing this I hear her lying on her bed making baby sounds. She thinks it works....I must go- I am giggling at her rendition of a baby's cry!

Quickly...before my children starve...

2010-11-22T17:48:00.004-05:00

I wanted to share with you the dress that I made today for Sophie. Now, I didn't make this because I necessarily wanted to, but Sophie is going to be a flowergirl in my brother-in-law's wedding (cue 'Another One Bites the Dust') and I had decided to save us a little money and make the dress. I made a puffball skirt and put it with a regular top- the sash is from the cuttings leftover when the bridesmaids dresses were altered. I tried to make the sash mimic the sash on the bridesmaids dresses. Over all, I think it is cute....What do you think?

Now, I must go feed my children....

Sophie the Octopus

2010-11-20T08:55:00.003-05:00

Ever seen a 5 year old hooked up to a 13 lead EKG?

Sophie's annual trip to the cardiologist was last week. While they are never fun, I always feel like we are seeing an old friend. We have seen Dr. Lucas since Sophie was 4 months old, and he never fails to amaze me- the way he remembers pieces of Sophie when she was little. How in the world he remembers about the pacifier she used to have when she was an infant, I will never know.

We are lucky to have a healthy child, but we must continue to go because of the fact that she has Wolff Parkinson White Syndrome. It is not a very common condition, and right now seems to be under control. I won't bore you about an EP Study, electrical pathways, and all that fun stuff- suffice it to say that it is just an annual checkup.

On yet ANOTHER doctor's trip for Abby and Sophie (another well-child check) I was telling the girls what to expect from the visit. They are always scared about getting a shot, but I was trying to assure them that the only thing they would have to experience was a finger prick (which is actually pretty bad, in my opinion), and having to give a urine specimen (always fun). As we were talking, Sophie started getting worked up (she also was diagnosed with the croup at the doctor's office- so she sounds like a barking seal) and turned to Abby. She looked at her and asked, "Can I go first so that I can get it over with?" Children never cease to amaze me. Sure enough, as soon as we were in the doctor's office, she asked if they would hurry up and prick her finger. Both of my girls did beautifully, and other than the croup, I was told that I have two healthy girls. That is something for which I can be thankful!

A Photo Saturday

2010-11-07T09:44:00.006-05:00

I have been wandering around the Upstate looking for places to shoot some fall pictures of the kids next weekend. I don't want to do the normal pictures of them in a beautiful garden. So Carmie and I got in the car, and just started riding. The goal was to ride up Highway 176 all the way to Saluda. And we did! It was so fun, and the ride was gorgeous. We had such fun taking pictures of the same things, then comparing them. I know- not what some people consider great fun, but to us....it was a little photo fabulousness. So, some of the pictures are of downtown Spartanburg (not that great- but the sky was beautiful). The other pictures are of Main St. Saluda. This is the first time I had ever visited the little town of Saluda- and it was beautiful. (BTW- This is my first video upload from FLICKR- how did I not use this before??? It's awesome!)

Welcome, little one....

2010-11-02T20:56:00.004-04:00

Remember the baby stuff that I have been busy making? The Nappy Bag, the fabric letters, and the ridiculously cute baby duvet? Well it was all in anticipation of this sweet little cupcake! My great niece, Emory, was born Monday, November 1st. Tonight I got to take my camera with me to the hospital and capture some sweet pictures of this precious baby.

This picture makes me grit my teeth because I want to hold her. So tiny and sweet. I just have to slap myself back to reality by remembering all the teenage and preteen angst that fills our house. Ugh.
Look at that hair! The only person I know with such stand up black hair was Sophie! But it wasn't soft baby hair, like this. It was more like a bad toupee, or a fur hat from the Eskimos.
Sleeping baby. Who doesn't love that? (Her mama better get some sleep, too. We all know that babies wake up when they get home.)
Because I know you love me (maybe) and want to share in my joy (possibly) I wanted to share these with you. And if you don't love me, you can just say awwwwwww.

Happy Election Day- hope you voted! :)

Sharing...

2010-10-30T20:58:00.006-04:00

I know it's been a while, and I have been crazy busy. I have recently taken up running with c25k and trying to fit one more thing in my schedule has been tough. BUT- I wanted to share some Halloween pictures with you from tonight. Abby was Little Red Riding Hood and Sophie was the Big Bad Wolf. I made both their costumes, and painted Sophie's face. Savannah was a square dancer (?) and Caitlin was a punk rock/witch.....(?) Our rule with Halloween is that it has to be something we can make. So voila....Halloween has happened!

My dad was talking to Sophie, asking her what she was. I am not going to lie...she looked like a cat...but she wanted to be the Big Bad Wolf. So Big Bad Wolf is what she was called!
Abby's Little Red Riding Hood costume. This costume made me mad that I wouldn't shell out 20 bucks for a bought costume. 9 hours and countless seam ripping experiences later....here is her outfit. I will tell you that it is hard to find a Little Red Riding Hood costume to purchase from a store that is not some adult sexy/trashy costume. So handmade it was.
Sophie's face. Have you ever tried painting a 5 year old's face? It was like trying to hit a moving target. I basically let her turn her head back and forth and held the brush in place.

Amy had her 2nd annual Halloween Party, and her husband Justin dressed up as ....well- a nametag?
The Big Bad Wolf trying to break into Amy's chicken coop. You just can't keep out the riffraff anymore....

More of my dad talking to Sophie. She was trying to convince him that she was a mean wolf.
Savannah the square dancer. Wouldn't YOU guess that was what she was?
The full view of Sophie's outfit. I know it was quite possibly nowhere near my best. I didn't start it until last night. But it worked, and it was comfortable for her to wear.
Punk/Rocker/Witch Caitlin. I am sure you could have figured that out in just a few tries.
I caught them posing for my mom and decided to snap this picture. They were in one place and standing still. So I had to shoot. :)

Linked to the following parties:

Weekend Wrap-Up Party @ Tatertots & Jello

Finally....

2010-10-10T20:40:00.017-04:00

It was my own personal marathon....okay. Actually it wasn't quite a marathon. Not at all, really. A few weeks ago I decided that I was going to make a duvet cover for my expectant niece's crib set. I bought the fabric. Realized I needed more fabric. Bought MORE fabric. But it just sat there. I am telling you- unless I make a to-do list, the to-do stuff never gets done. So, this morning, in all my resplendent morning glory (or in the spirit of Halloween, gory might be more appropriate!), I set to work on the duvet. Now, this is not hard. Unless you are me. Then you have to over analyze, try to improve on the design, do it wrong when you are trying to do it so carefully right, sew in the snaps the wrong way not once...but TWICE. You see...it was like a marathon. But I persevered! And then, when I saw it finished, it was all worth it. Look at how sweet!

Then my mom surprised my sister and I by showing us a baby hat that she had been working on. Now, I know that baby hats are precious. But this is a cap that she knitted. Look at this preciousness....

Now, if I only had that Canon 50D and a baby (which I will be able to get my hands on a newborn here shortly) I would be taking some pictures. Just sayin'.

I'm linked to the following parties:
Making Mondays Marvelous @ C.R.A.F.T.

Made by You Monday @ Skip to My Lou

Mad Skills Party @ Mad in Crafts

Make it for Monday @ Cottage Instincts

Whatever Goes Wednesday @ Someday Crafts

Show Us What You're Working With @ Me and my Bucket

Sugar & Spice (and everything else) @ 733

Hoo's Got Talent? @ Night Owl Crafting

Making it With Allie @ What Allie's Making Now

Link Party @ Simply Designing

Weekend Wrap-Up Party @ Tatertots & Jello

What I have been up to....

2010-10-05T23:40:00.004-04:00

I always struggle with time management. Lately, with school, sports, and kids- my crafting has really taken a back burner. But I haven't been idle. I just wanted to share a few things that I have done- let me know what you think!

This is stamped and doodled fabric-I decided I wanted to stamp some canvas, and then color it with my Copic markers. I have all these great colors, and I wanted to use them! So, after I finish with the other piece, I am going to heat set it and then make it into a tote. Isn't it cute?
A pocketbook that I made myself. This is the first time that I have made anything for myself. I used the day bag pattern from the book Sew Liberated.

Trick or Treat bag. I love this. Who doesn't love a skull?

Fabric letters-I am currently working on my great-nieces' name. I should hopefully have them done by the time of her birth.

A blanket that I made as a baby gift. The rick-rack, the minky patch, and the flannel all made a super sweet blanket.

Now this isn't something I have been up to....This is something Abby wrote about at school. The prompt was obviously to write about something she treasured. So, look at what my little angel wrote:

"I treasure

I treasure my mom because I love her a lot and she makes me happy. She takes good care of me. She cooks for me. I love my mom. She is nice, too. That's why I treasure my mom"

You can see why Abby has quickly moved into most favored child status. I love the fact that you can obviously tell that she appreciated my cooking skills. And she thinks I am nice. Boy, she will sing a different tune in about, oh....4 years. But right now- I am eating it up! :)

My Christmas List...

2010-09-29T22:01:00.004-04:00

It's about that time (okay, so it makes me want to say to break forth the rhythm and the rhyme- but I will spare you the former Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch Lyrics) to start getting prepared for the Christmas season. The kids have let us know what they want. And can I just tell you this? I have something fabulous planned. Yep....they are going to love their Christmas. I will just have to sell one kidney to make sure I get it financed. But no worries. That is why I have two. :) But today, I found some things that I would like for Christmas. So, because no one around here cares about what I want....I thought I would share it with you.

All I can say is.....sigh. I was in Best Buy today and held this baby. I feel that my life would be complete with this camera. I could lose weight, the stars would align, my kids would behave....you get the drift. I have the camera that I purchased 7 years ago. The first DSLR on the market- the Canon Rebel. Now, I have taken, literally, thousands of pictures with it. It has been great. But it does nothing like this baby can do. I now feel like I am holding a jalopy when I hold my camera. You know, the car that is driving around with one spare on and a primered door....it moves, but it isn't the most efficient operating vehicle ever. Yeah, that is my camera. So if there is anyone out there who would love to gift me with this, or if Canon would like to sponsor my blog and let me show off how good their pictures can look when taken by even the worst amateur photographer. Or if anyone REALLY loves me and wants to gift me with this to show me how much you are blessed to have me in your life....I am your girl. Email me at amanda(at)themodernbradybunch(dot)com.

There are the other things on my list, like the IPad, a housekeeper, a thinner body, you know...the other normal fairy tale Santa list. But that camera. It tops it.

On a side note...I keep losing followers. What's up with that people? I say that like its a ton..3. But where do they go??

A Wrinkle In Time....

2010-09-19T20:54:00.003-04:00

I know you remember this post in which I gave you a little picture of visiting Steve's father's cabin. It is definitely a man cabin. Today we ventured up that way again for a family reunion. Thank goodness, it wasn't at the cabin. Steve assured me that it was in a community center that would have a bathroom and some running water. So, I felt a little better. And the kids liked me a little better because I didn't withhold fluids from them all morning long.

The upside of this is that we got to see Steve's parents. I love these two people. Seriously. They are wonderful- he totally didn't deserve to get adopted by them. Okay, just kidding. {Maybe} His parents love seeing the kids.

And they try to hide behind them in pictures. Can you tell? Besides the fact that Abby looks like she had too much cough syrup, this picture is great! This may be the ONLY picture that exists of all the kids with them.

While Alex and I were taking bets on how many people in the room had all their original teeth, we decided to take this picture. I never take a picture of myself....but I was bored, and it was with my Alex.

Steve and his dad enjoying some conversation with family. They did have all their teeth, well, most. And if you counted two people together, you would definitely have a whole set! {Side note- I adore the hats that Steve's dad wears. He totally carries them off with a t-shirt!}

I swear, the cabin looked like we had stepped back to 1623. When Steve had used the term community building, I should have realized that he was using the term loosely. When we pulled up in front of the building....I thought it was abandoned. But nope, it was the "community building". In all honesty I think that the restroom and kitchen were added on later, but I am not at all sure if the building is old, or just shoddy construction.....But who needs to worry their little heads over such matters? We went, we survived, and the kids got to eat. Isn't that what is important in life?

Terrific Tuesday? Not so much....

2010-09-07T21:48:00.002-04:00

The universe was aligned against me today. I am convinced of it. It wasn't in the stars for me to have a good day. When I awoke this morning, I should have pulled the covers over my head and called in sick. I would have. If I hadn't been scared. We have a mouse. That seems to be living in the house. I am not trying to rhyme. A mouse will bring this old girl down anytime. I can take broken bones (ask Amy), sick, crying babies, even blood- but a mouse or a bug- someone call 911. Because I am outta there. I have had Sophie kill bugs for me. No joke. I hate them. Last night should have been the sign that I needed to stay under wraps....I heard the little vermin in my kitchen last night. You know, after it gets quiet, and everyone is in bed....those last few minutes when the stillness of the night is sublime. Perfect. Then I hear scritch, scritch, scritch. Tranquility totally ruined. I pinpointed that it was at the trashcan (I had some boxes that needed to be placed in the recycling bin broken down behind the trashcan). So, I came around the corner and started chunking whatever I could get my hands on at the trashcan. Yeah, I know. Not the most effective. But it was dark. I am scared of the dark. I am scared of the mouse. Obviously- two of my most crippling fears combined. I ran when I saw something white come across the floor at me. (I was later thankful to find out that it was a shipping peanut that happened to be on the floor near the trash can...whew...). I flew upstairs and waited, thinking every scratching sound I hear was a mouse, only to find that when I took the flashlight and went into the girl's room.....it was Sophie grinding her teeth. So sleep was a problem last night.

Fast forward to this morning (because in between the night and the morning you would have been able to find me searching Facebook on my phone, or reading blogs, or etc. etc....I couldn't sleep with a mouse in my house!). I was making my lunch and making the girl's breakfasts (multitasking) when I spot a mouse running out from behind the refrigerator- going down the basement stairs- towards my CRAFT ROOM!!!!! I started throwing crap again. Thank god I didn't have a gun. I was five minutes late leaving because I was so worked up over that mouse. Yuck.

I stopped to get a mocha frappe at McDonald's.....I waited until I got to the Mickey D's close to work, just trying to calm down a little before introducing myself to more caffeine. I ordered the mocha frappe. I pay for the mocha frappe. I go to the last window to pick up my mocha frappe. The window girl tells me they are out of mocha. WHAT?! I wanted to cry. Then, she tells me in order to get my money back, I would need to pull forward and they would bring it out to me. I said no. She took my money. She can give it back. I paid cash. Just reach in, grab three bucks, and give it to me. She told me they had all those cars behind me. I just looked at her. Obviously not shaping up to be a great day.

Then, I was feeling a little better. I was teaching about the phases of the moon in Science...really getting into it. I love teaching Astronomy. (Remember-these are 4th graders- not collegial students). I have a globe and an apple (budget cuts people, I borrowed a kids apple to represent the moon). I was thinking about what I would say, hearing, "The part of the moon facing the Earth" and somehow my words came tumbling out...all jumbled, and I hear myself saying, "The fart of the moon pacing the Earth..." And then, sigh. I had lost them. I think a few even rolled out of their seats.

So, tonight I made my way to Lowe's. While purchasing a refill for the grill gas tank I made my way over to the vermin killing aisle and got one of everything. I am putting the lid on this day. Closing it up tight. I am not sure I could survive another one.

Our Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-06T20:48:00.005-04:00

We had a great Labor Day Weekend. Busy, but fun. Here are some pictures for you to enjoy. Hopefully I will be able to come up for air and blog (I mean really blog, not just loading some pictures) sometime this week! I hope you had as much fun as we did!

Abby

Caitin, Abby, & Sophie

Sophie, Devin, Logan (great-nephew), Savannah, Caitlin, Evie (great-niece), Abby, & Alex

Evie (my great-niece)

Sophie (in the red)

Sophie and one of her teammates from soccer...

Look what I found........

2010-08-30T22:32:00.003-04:00

Today, I was rifling through some things underneath the tv- you know what I mean, going through and trying to sort the XBox 360 games from the Wii games and making sure the movies were where they are supposed to be. I saw a weird case and it had a CD in it that was labeled pictures. It was my writing. (I would recognize it anywhere!) So, wondering what I might be looking at, I placed it in the disc drive and was almost teary eyed when I was looking through these.

Look at these babies! Abby was 2 1/2, Savannah was 6, and that little baby with the furry head- that is Sophie. I have always told people she had a lot of hair- but you forget what it all looks like!

I couldn't help it- I love this picture! That little face all scrunched up makes me almost wish for those baby days again. Then I run to the sink, splash water on my face, and slap myself around a little.

Yeah. That was her hair. It looks like I took a men's toupee and placed it upon her head. Craziness. I remember the nurses telling me how they actually had to wash her hair in the nursery. They couldn't get it all clean with just water, so they had to use actual baby shampoo. Is that not the sweetest picture ever? Sigh.

This is when Abby first got to meet Sophie. One of my all time favorite pictures. She was so sweet. And you didn't know toddler Abby. Sweet wasn't her style. She had more of a Ms. Piggy/My Way style.

And this picture-it was so Savannah. At 6 she was such the little grown up. She had been so excited about Sophie. And she realized, unlike with Abby, that she was ours. We couldn't take her back. It is so sad to think that much time has passed without even realizing it. My sweet, sweet babies.

Baby goodness.

2010-08-27T22:57:00.004-04:00

It seems that lately, babies are truly springing up from everywhere. If I were younger, I would think the legend of the Cabbage Patch Kids is true and that they grow like head of cabbages. That is how plentiful the crop around this place seems to be. Now, my uterus is closed for business, so no one needs to worry about this ole gal. Plus, Steve has had a vasectomy. So, if my uterus somehow sprang back into action one of two things would happen. 1- A divorce. 2-A lawsuit. So, just not good for morale around this place. (Side note, when I introduced Steve to my family I believe it went something like this:

Me: Guys, Gals...this is Steve. He has had a vasectomy.

Now, my family is not exactly effusive with affection. But I believe my dad said,

Dad: Welcome to the Family!

Obviously this was a big selling point for everyone so occupation of my uterus would cause sadness among many others besides just myself and my husband.) This afternoon I went to visit a co-worker who had given birth to a brand new little man on Wednesday night. Yes, I got to hold the baby. Yes, the sweetness of his little scalp, the smoothness of it, it was almost too much to handle. And in all the excitement I forgot to give her my number one advice for all new mothers. I can't believe I did this! I am a bitter disappointment to my fellow females. So here, I offer my advice to you for free. This stuff was my best friend. Are you ready?

Now, I know you may not think so. But this was worth its weight in gold. In fact, I was so hooked on it, I think that while Savannah was in the NICU, that other patrons in the waiting room thought I was probably sniffing paint. You see, the bathroom was right off the NICU waiting area. It wasn't one of those multi-stalls things...it was just a single toilet and sink. So I would go in, and I am sure all they could hear out there was this mass spraying. And then when I emerged, it was complete with a Dermoplast cloud hovering still in the bathroom. I am sure others were all raising their eyebrows, thinking I was some junkie. And they were right. I was addicted. I may have been going through about a can a day. And when you are 21, in college, and your husband is 22, working two part time jobs....yeah...funding that addiction can be tough. I think the stuff was about 9 bucks a bottle at the time. Which adds up to about 70 bucks a week. OBVIOUSLY- not in our budget. But I couldn't live without it. At one point I heard someone say, "What the hell?!" when I was full on spraying that stuff....but seriously. It has numbing agents. NUMBING AGENTS. (And sometimes, I go a little overboard. Like with my tonsillectomy. When I read about putting ice on your throat. Well, nowhere did it say to just leave it on for 24 hours!! I know that everyone thinks I should just KNOW this-but I haven't had a tonsillectomy before! So what if I wore that ice pack filled with ice for four days straight. I paid for it! So what if the kids couldn't touch me because my shoulders and face were so cold that they would say, "ouch" and walk away. I was doing what someone told me to do!!!) And after having an 8lb 4oz baby- I will say it again- NUMBING AGENTS. Intervention on A&E was not a show back then, thank heavens. I might have found myself in rehab for my addiction. But I survived it - I went cold turkey. Now, I am rethinking that. NUMBING AGENTS are always good. In fact, I need to go look. I think I have a can hidden around here somewhere.

Living it up.....

2010-08-23T19:04:00.004-04:00

That's what we did the last few days before I had to return to school. And boy did I ever craft my heart out....I made a pinwheel wreath for my classroom door that looks similar to this one. I made a table skirt, a cart skirt to go around my rolling cart (to tell you how sad I am that I am not going to be able to craft on a whim- I quilted together squares of my favorite fabric so that I would have a little piece of my craft room with me....), a curtain for my emergency exit (this took some doing, because it has to be INSIDE the frame of the window....but I did it!), some curtains for my door window, and general teacher stuff. I also completed the Nappy Bag (remember that pattern that I bought a few weeks/months ago?). What do you think? So, while I feel like I have been lazy...I am looking at all that, and thinking about the other school work I have done...and it makes me feel better. I knew blogging was good for my soul!

We had some fun at the pool- trying to soak up those last few days where all that was required was some sunscreen and a bathing suit. I love pictures like these. You can just look at it and tell that they are having fun. It looks very unlike the faces I see when I ask them to clean the table off after supper......or make their beds......oh..let's face it, those things don't bring out the best in people- but these faces...too darn cute!

And those big things are not Sophie's muscles (who needs muscles when she has a bat???). It's her helps-me-to-swim-so-I-won't-drown-thing. I don't know the name- but she looks super pumped in it....

I think this photo wins, hands down, as my favorite of the summer. Not only is she happy, everything about it just says peaceful. And I must have caught her by surprise because she isn't posing....Abby has skills when it comes to posing. This girl can feel a camera-and when she spots it she goes into full photo mode. So, yep-this is why I say surprised her!

Sophie celebrated turning 5 on the 13th and Savannah turned 11 today! Then, they all started school, with Sophie heading off to full day 5k. I have to admit that I shed a few tears over that. I always get a little teary eyed, but knowing she was my last....it was unnerving.

The Sunday before school started (the 15th) we headed to my mom's house for a little family birthday party for Sophie. We were riding down the road (a two lane road, mind you) and a young college girl was riding behind me. She had a friend riding with her and let me just say- their lips had to be hurting, because of all the bumper kissing they were doing. They were so close that I couldn't see the young girl driving the vehicle at times. I lightly tapped the brakes because I wanted to remind them that I was in front of them (we all know about young girls, talking, not always paying close attention to the road- I was practically doing a public service here!). About that time, they back off a bit- and their hands, well in all honesty, it was the middle fingers flying from the hands of both girls that caught my eye, along with the fact that you could see them mouthing some very bad words. Now, I had been calm up to that moment- but the older I get, the more likely I am to climb out of the car, pull someone out of theirs, and teach them a lesson on manners. I was furious. I can't really remember if I was giving them the universal sign of happiness and hello, I just know my hands were all over the place. It is really a wonder that I didn't wreck. Really. So, the kids see that the girls behind us are doing this, and they all throw up their hands and start making fists and waving them around in the air, yelling about how stupid they are. (Maybe they have seen my road rage a little too much?). So, the driver goes to open her sunroof, because I guess she thinks giving the bird to 5 kids in a Suburban is the classy, upstanding thing to do......and she can't get the thing open. You can only imagine, my five kids are now fully turned around, pointing and laughing because she is so mad and can't get her sunroof opened. And then, I hear it. I hear Sophie say, "Mom, do you need a bat?" I am glad she is on my side.

Sophie the Superhero and Other Fun Adventures....

2010-08-09T22:10:00.002-04:00

We have always known that Sophie has more cojones than many boys we have encountered. She can throw a hissy fit with the best girl, she's athletic, and she doesn't let anyone run her over. And I can't say how glad I am for that last one. If you have ever been a door mat for anyone, you know what I am talking about. The fact that she is small for her age also makes me glad that she doesn't take crap from anyone. (And that includes me....I mean let's face it-sometimes I have to put her in her place....). Last week, Sophie and all the other kids were playing outside. With the other kids on our street that makes about 2,000 kids that were out there. And there are only 8 houses on our street. You get the drift-lot of kids. A little boy across the street was playing with our kids and he got angry about something. Who knows what it was? I don't- because we all know how temperamental men are-boys are just little men...so it really is a toss up here. But I digress- they were playing, and the little boy across the street got mad at Sophie. He then made what could have been the biggest mistake of his 5 year life. He balled up his fist and waved it under Sophie's nose and told her he was going to punch her. His life expectancy went from 74 to 5 in 0.2 seconds. Sophie saw red. She turned on her heel (this is based on the observations and retellings from the other children), marched back to our garage, and proceeded to grab a bat. Not a bat that hangs from the ceiling of a yucky cave- a baseball bat. Baseball Bat. I just wanted to reiterate that for you. She hauled that baseball bat across the street and went after the kid. Thankfully he went running inside. So, no animals were hurt during the making of this story-but to add insult to injury- the kids had heard that he was going to have to repeat kindergarten. So as they are all walking in (maybe they were giving Sophie high-fives and fist bumps, congratulating her on being ferocious) Caitlin turns around and says, "(Kid's name here) is going to be in the same grade as Sophie!!" and they all die laughing. I couldn't figure out why that was so funny until they told me he was repeating kindergarten. So-moral of the story- Don't mess with our kids. They play to win.

Ups and Downs....

2010-08-04T19:34:00.002-04:00

Life has a way of mowing you down like a tractor plowing through a field of grass. And then it throws you a bone. Today, at approximately 5 pm, my IPod was declared dead. Everything was done to revive it. But alas, ITunes keeps telling me that it is unable to restore my device because it is busy. Really? Busy? Nope. It's not. In fact, it wasn't doing anything! To say I am upset is an understatement. A lot of you may not know this-but I adore music. I love it. I have a song for every occasion, a playlist for every mood....well, you get it. I sat and stared at the computer while it kept saying it couldn't help me. My lower lip was quivering. I had to stop myself from an all out cry. I kept saying, "keep your big girl panties on, keep your big girl panties on," and I may have yelled at a child or two who may have asked me a question. I can't remember. It was all a blur. I am still devastated. I feel like I have lost a pet. Not a child. But maybe a pet. And because we aren't made of money (remember the post here about me being a money-grubbing 'ho with few principles) I have no idea when it will be replaced. I would say that my Etsy sales would be put to the side for it, but I haven't made a sale yet, so that may be laughable. Please, let's all observe a moment of silence for the IPod that is no more. Thank you for your kind thoughts and sympathy. I am bereft.

Remember that bone I was talking about? Well, I logged on my blog to find that I now have 100 followers! Does anyone recall when I was so happy to have 20 followers! I am sure that I can think of a better speech when I am not so overcome with grief......just bear with me. Thanks everybody!

My lips are sealed....

2010-08-02T17:11:00.025-04:00

Well, they have been.....I mean, they still are. I have a big surprise in store for ya'll. Okay, maybe not something you will benefit from- but definitely something that you can see what I have been doing for the past week......

In the meantime, I had to make Sophie's tote for 5k. I could have bought her one, it would have cost 7 bucks to purchase one from school. But somehow, with all the fabric I have lying around (I have confessed my obsession to you) I felt like that would be such a waste. So, I let Sophie plow through my fabric stash (it hurt me to see her touch all of it-I may be seeking the help of a therapist soon) and she picked out what she wanted. I then asked her what she would have on the front of it. If she could have ANYTHING (minus it being diamond encrusted-thank God I am not making this for Abby!) what would she like. She let me know that she wanted an elephant. No hesitation, that is what she wanted on the front of her tote bag. Oddly enough, I feel this is strangely appropriate-this girl can remember ANYTHING! (Memory of an elephant). So, all I had to purchase was a zipper and a piece of gray felt from Michaels. A little black canvas for the straps....and voila! Something she can instantly recognize as hers....

How cute is that? I love how it turned out! It makes me happy that I was able to pull it off (I have never put a zipper in a bag before- and I had a few problems figuring out the logistics...but I got it-finally.) The green fabric is a designer weight fabric that is made by PKaufmann.

The inside is out of the same fabric as the ear. I love it! it's Santorini by Lila Tueller. It's so bright and cheerful.

Does anyone remember Shrinky Dinks? I have recently discovered them, thanks to blogs that I read, (I never used them before this). I love these things! I had the kids make charms for mother's day and made them into charm bracelets. So, I put my mind to work, and using dressmaker pins, I had Sophie scribble on some (I joined in the drawing fun on a few) to make new pushpins for some corkboards I was doing. I know, you are probably wondering why in the world I want to use dressmaker pins as push pins....

I didn't want them to leave holes in the fabric! How cute are these? These are part of the surprise-but I wanted to show you how cute these turned out! A few scraps of fabric, four 12x12 squares of corkboard, some batting and hot glue- BAM! Four fabulous looking, fully functional corkboards. What do you think?

So for all of you out there who could swear that I have been sitting on my lazy butt- I swear I haven't! This is at least a little proof of what I have been up to!

I hate keeping secrets....just a few more days.....

Link Parties:
What I Made This Week...or Last Week...or Last Month...Link Part @Simply Designing.blogspot.com
Sundae Scoop Weekend Wrap-Up Party @ I Heart Naptime & Chocolate Sundaes
Just Something I Whipped Up Monday @ The Girl Creative

Made by You Monday@Skip to My Lou

Making the World Cuter Monday@ Making the World Cuter

Market Yourself Mondays@Sumos Sweet Stuff

Modern Craftswoman Monday@Tools are for Women Too

Making Mondays Marvelous@ C.R.A.F.T.

Tuesday Tag-Along @ Twee-Poppets Review & Giveaway

Sew Cute Tuesday @ Creative Itch

Take A Look Tuesday @ Sugar Bee

Get Your Craft On @ Today's Creative Blog

Follow Me Back Tuesday @ Review Retreat

We Did It Wednesday! @ SewMuchAdo

Creative Therapy @Life In The Pitts

Show and Tell @ Blue Cricket Design

Hoo's Got Talent @ Night Owl Crafting

Make It Yours Dat @ My Backyard Eden

Catchy title here.

2010-07-27T17:47:00.011-04:00

I can't think up a cute title. I just can't. My brain cells number about 5 today. So, there is not of original material rolling around in there today. A title is just out of the question. I wanted to show you a purse that I made. I didn't post it on Etsy. Why? Well, I made one for my step-daughter Caitlin. And then, follow me here.....her mom saw the purse. I know, this may sound weird. But she asked if I would make her a purse like that. I said, sure. I mean-she offered to pay me. And there are a few things on my list that I might not do for money- but its a short list. (Have you noticed that we have six kids to feed? Money DOES NOT grow on trees or bushes or sidewalks....you gotta do what you can people!). So, being a money grubbing 'ho with few principles I told her that sure, I would make her a purse. So this is the purse.

It was made using a jelly roll (I know-that makes me laugh too- it makes me start singing, Uh, oh let's go......let me see you JELLY ROLL- I know it's supposed to be tootsie roll, but it makes me giggle all the same). So, I used the remnants of a jelly roll I had and then tried out a new skill. I made my own piping. Except you can't see it here. I know...I should have taken better pictures. But no brain cells people. Please don't judge me too harshly.

I need a support group meeting....

2010-07-25T09:18:00.004-04:00

I needed a little time away from the kids yesterday. I know- shocker. I'll give you a minute for you to get the look of surprise off your face. Ready now? Well, in an effort to escape from this crazy house I decided that my sister and I would go for pedicures. I haven't had one all summer- so this was definitely a treat. I couldn't get us appointments until 2:15- and I wasn't sure my sanity would hold for that long- so we decided to make a run to a wonderful fabric store in the area. Needless to say- I need a 12 step program for my fabric addiction. I bought about 6 or 7 yards of fabric. I know- it's ridiculous. But it's beautiful! I also bought two new patterns....

This is the Pink Fig Darling Jeans Pattern. Now, I could probably figure out how to do this on my own. But I love that I can take jeans that might be a little too short for the girls and be able to get a little more wear out of them.

This is Amy Butler's Nappy Bag pattern (obviously). I have two nieces expecting November-December timeline and if this pattern works out well I want to make it for my Etsy store. It has a matching diaper changing pad- what could be cuter?

All that loveliness going on yesterday and then I walk in the door to find that the chest of drawers in Abby and Sophie's room had fallen over. My first fear was that one of the kids had gotten hurt. But no, they were fine. Instead- when I walked upstairs- I found the room not much better than when the chest had fallen. So now, the chest is trashed and we have to find another one for the girls. (I am going to give them my dresser, I believe- a find from the Pottery Barn Outlet-and get Steve and I a new wardrobe....don't you like that plan?).

On a side note-I am going to have to get Abby and Sophie a new bed for their room. Their pink mammut beds from Ikea are now getting too short for Abby. (This kid is growing faster than a bean sprout). You may remember them from this post. If you might be interested in these two sweet beds and mattresses and live in driving distance of Spartanburg, SC- let me know. Best/fastest/only offer accepted (haha).

We've moved.....

2010-07-22T19:00:00.003-04:00

I have a little surprise. Today, for some reason, I had the bright idea that I would purchase my own domain name....I know, I know. I do these things and then I tell you about it. I am sorry I didn't tell you first- but those of you who read by RSS feed you may have to change my address. We are now hosted on our own domain! So, the new address is www.themodernbradybunch.com . Blogger is supposed to redirect everything here....but I thought I would let you know, just in case you noticed the address bar. :)

Is there a doctor here?

2010-07-20T11:45:00.005-04:00

Because I need to be the patient!!! Can someone help me?? Okay- I am going to spill my guts and I need some help and advice.

Everyone knows that I opened an Etsy store not long ago. It wasn't a big secret...in fact, I kind of shouted it from the rooftops. So, while I didn't expect it to go like gangbusters, but I haven't made a sale. This is extremely frustrating. So, what does a true nerd at heart do? I go and purchase a book entitled "The Handmade Marketplace: How to Sell Your Crafts Locally, Globally, and Online by Kari Chapin. Muich like everything else in my life- when I can't find answers I look to a book. I am currently to the section about Branding. What is your style, what would a customer associate my products with, etc. Here is my question- What is my style? I would like to say that I am eclectic, but that doesn't translate to selling potential. And I like to get my hands in EVERYTHING. I mean, I have a quilt project going, a paper collage I am working on, sewing projects left and right....I don't like to limit myself with a label. So here is what I wanted some advice on. Am I being too impatient? Should I do something different than what I am doing? Can someone share some tips for success on Etsy with me? Please? Because the type of person I am, if something doesn't happen to positively reinforce this for me, I can see this going down the drain in spectacular fashion. Do I need better pictures, more things, WHAT? Help me!!!! Please.....

And just as a pick me up- has anyone seen the trailer for "Eat, Pray, Love?" Just seeing the trailer makes me want to cry- and the book was fantastic....so just a little Tuesday Treat for you....

Paddle faster....is that banjo music I hear?

2010-07-12T11:38:00.014-04:00

On July 3rd, Steve's dad held his annual barbecue at his cabin in Green Creek, NC. Have you ever heard of Green Creek? Well, they might say it is at Mill Springs....either way- two places you might have passed through without even knowing it on your way to Chimney Rock. Once you are off Hwy. 9- you're on your own. Now, don't get me wrong. It is beautiful scenery. Beautiful valleys rising to tree filled mountail peaks. Unobstructed views of the mountains and Lake Adger. But there's one small problem. This is a man's hunting cabin. Which means there is no bathroom, or running water, or power. NO BATHROOM. I get nervous bladder everytime we start to depart from our house. I can't help it. And then, the thought of using an outhouse. Ewwwwww. I have a hard enough time with a port-a-potty. Which I don't use unless it is absolute emergency. But for some reason, when you tell a man about this, they don't care. Why is that?

This is obviously the cabin of a man that won't let a woman within miles of it. And no, it is not from the set of the Beverly Hillbillies. You people be nice.
This is Steve and his brother Shawn. Shawn can cook some mean barbecue. No doubt about it. See how much taller Shawn is than Steve? That's because Steve's adopted- he didn't get the height gene. But, you wouldn't be able to tell by looking at the top of their heads.....Shawn is neat, and if it weren't for him and his fiance Celeste, I don't know what I would do up at the cabin. I love Steve's parents, but they can't be responsible for entertaining me while there is an endless parade of Steve's extended family on his father's side. So I am sure that Shawn and Celeste are told to play nice. Which they do-and we always have a great time together. Until I drink too much liquids. Then we must bid everyone adieu.

On other, more friendly topics.....This past weekend I made a tote for my sister. I had made a tote for my mom, but I wanted this one to be more of a beach tote. I also drew the design as a tote/diaperbag. (Yes, I actually completed the project from the project jar- aren't you proud?) I was pleased with how it turned out. It is huge though. The finished dimensions are 15 inches high by 20 inches wide by 9 inches deep. I didn't think about how big the finished product was going to be. I could have carried Sophie in it!

I added the A at the last minute- since it was for my younger sister Ashlee. I like the contrast of the black against the pink and green.
This is the back pocket- it runs along the back side and it is about 8 inches tall. There is a little surprise below at what I did to the back pocket.

I put three interior pockets on the inside. I also used interfacing to make them stiff. There is nothing I hate worse that pockets that stretch and become so flimsy that what you intended them to hold is all over the bottom of your bag. That makes you wanna throw a hissy fit.

This is the surprise. In the back pocket. See that magnetic snap? My first ever. How proud are you?

I am going to list this bag, in several sizes, on Etsy. I think the design makes a great diaper bag (a little smaller, of course). Have a great Tuesday!

Our July 4th...

2010-07-08T12:24:00.003-04:00

We always have such a great time on July 4th-and this year was no exception. My birthday is on July 5th, so technically I get the best birthday party of anyone. :) Not many people get a national holiday in their honor, either (every few years my birthday gets to be a holiday!). We had a wonderful time, and the kids were worn out (that is what I call successful!). I have a lot to do today- but I will post some pictures of Steve's father's cabin and our July 4th celebration there soon. Paddle faster, because you will hear banjo music- :)

My First-Ever Tutorial!

2010-07-05T16:43:00.015-04:00

It is a known fact among my friends and family that I can be indecisive. This is not due to the fact that I want to bury my head in the sand. It is, in fact, just the opposite. I usually have so many options that I don't know where to start. Does anyone else out there suffer from this? Something to do for the kids, something for my Etsy store, something for my family, or my friends. The list can go on forever. And I suffer from a little A.D.D. I mean- I am right there in the middle of a good project when I may be reading a blog and there is an awesome tutorial and all of a sudden I rush down to my craft dungeon and start crafting furiously. And my first little project gets delegated to some crumpled pile on my sewing table that is hidden underneath remnants of wonder under, stiff interfacing, and fabric. It is screaming to me through my subconscious.....but my A.D.D. self is too excited by the new....ignores the old....until I wonder what happened and find myself working on a project that should have been completed a while ago and get really angry with myself. I have been trying to come up with a solution to this. One night, long, long, ago- ok...not really...it was just the other night- I thought that a jar (or a paper bag-who needs fancy?) with a lid would be a good idea.....I could write down the project, place it in the jar. When I finished with one project, I could reach my hand in and pull out the next project card. Of course, this means continually adding new projects-but that never seems to be a problem. So, this morning I decided to do a painted jar. Because you people just think that I am Ms. Getitdone- and I hate to upset that myth-but really, being able to see the cards is not a good idea. I will cheat or try to bend the rules in any way possible. And all just to see if I can. It's really a curse, folks. I can't help it....blame my parents-its their DNA!

I started with this niftly little Ikea jar (if you have ever been to Ikea-you probably have one of these jars....for a buck or two you can pick them up, ride them around in your buggy, and they mysteriously end up at the checkout with you-don't fall prey to riding stuff around with you...). I had some green paint and saran wrap. Easy.......who could go wrong with this?Don't forget to screw the lid on. That could be a mess, because a jar this size takes a lot of paint.

Don't you love my support system to stand it upside down? I thought I was pretty ingenious...a paper (or un-earth friendly styrofoam....like the one in the picture) plate and four plastic knives is all you need. After vigorously shaking, rolling, throwing, whatever you need to do to relieve some stress, you just turn it upside down (make sure to put something under it to catch the paint) over a plate or tray. Still easy....
Now, let me tell you another secret....I can't leave stuff alone. Easy and painted would be cute. But nope. I have to try my hand at etching something on the darn jar. I mean, really? It's just going to be in my craft dungeon....but I wanted to try it...and I know how you folks just live for the chance that I will mess up and you'll learn something from my mistakes....so I went for it. It was a little extra. Using my beloved Silhouette (in the picture above) I cut a vinyl stencil out for the word projects.

So, twisting your head, or just imagining it right side up....(Okay, so I'm a little impatient...so what?!) I placed the vinyl on the glass jar...it took a little smoothing..but it worked.

This is glass etching cream. It is like liquid gold. This 3 oz. bottle was 12.99. Thank God for Michael's and their 50% off coupon this week.

So after wiping on the cream, letting it sit for 10 minutes, wiping it off and applying more cream, letting it sit for 10 more minutes, and then washing it off with soap and water- this is what it looked like. Maybe not a rousing success....but not too bad-I think the next picture is a little better...

Okay...maybe not this picture. This picture was taken to show you that if you happen to be impatient, kind of like myself, and you try to shortcut the drying process by applying a heat gun to the wet paint....This is what your inside could look like....a little crackly...you can see a little of it on the outside. But really-I just wanted to get this finished.

It is this picture that shows it a little better...along with some of my project cards. I just made some rectangles and wrote the projects on them.

My cards inside my project jar. This makes me happy...although to be really honest, I was a little worried about them sticking to any paint that my heat gun might not have gotten too....

And this is me demonstrating picking a project from the jar. But I don't think this is the project I want to start on....so I threw it back....hopefully the next one will be the one.....

What we've been up to....

2010-06-30T08:32:00.002-04:00

No, we weren't in hiding. We didn't run away. On Sunday Devin had to check-in at Shriner's Hospital here in Greenville, SC. Then, Monday morning Devin had surgery to remove an osteochondroma (bone tumor) from his right arm. This was elective surgery for Devin. Can you believe that a ten year old ELECTED to have surgery? Well, the osteochondroma was on the growth plate of his right arm, and it had to move down his arm for it to be safely operable. Had the tumor been removed any earlier, the growth plate could have been damaged, making his right arm shorter than his left. Thankfully, everything went well, and Devin is great. He was able to come home Monday afternoon. This also means I have been busy nursing him. :) And if you haven't ever supported the Shriner's organization, buy a candy bar or throw a dollar their way and think of Devin. The Shriner's Hospital is set up for children only and have made that place so fun that you would think it was more of a resort than a hospital. You look around and see children playing Air Hockey, Ping Pong, Pool, the Wii, Nintendo, and the only clue you have that something might be a little different is that the children are in hospital gowns. There might be an IV pole standing beside the air hockey table. It's really amazing. They do great things for small people. Devin is now home and we are trying to make sure that he is comfortable and feels no pain. Thanks for all the kind thoughts and well wishes-he'll be back to new in no time!

The Unveiling.....

2010-06-26T14:51:00.019-04:00

I know you thought that I would never do it. I mean, I say a lot of stuff. I have high hopes. I convey them to you a lot. You listen. You are sweet and never condemn. But this time-I followed through. I did. Aren't you proud? And I would like to thank those six people who took the time to take my little quiz on my guest blog post. Truly. All six of you are such an inspiration. The rest of you are losers. HAHA- no you aren't. I just had to add some positive reinforcement for those six.....Anyway, I listened to you. And now I have my very own Etsy shop. And a cute header that I designed! So, without further ado, I would like to introduce: What do you think? And I posted an outfit that I made this week. This outfit may be the cutest outfit I have ever made. I am not going to lie. What do you think?

I love this sweet outfit. I am going to try to keep posting items as I make them. But right now I am reveling in the sweet feeling that comes with a goal completed.

Better Late Than Never!

2010-06-22T02:11:00.004-04:00

Life has a way of sweeping us off our feet. Sometimes, instead of gently setting us down, it once again throws us headfirst into the fray that-while making us feel alive- also makes us feel , well, tired. Those of you that know me personally know that our family has been struggling a little lately. We have had some crises that, like any family matter, can bring you together, or tear you apart. Thankfully, it has proven to bring us together, united, and remind us of those bonds that, although unseen, are more tenuous than even the strongest steel. All this is being said to say that I have been a little slack. I know.....me! Slack! Never! Yeah, right! I don't know if it is as much slack as it is overwhelmed. One day runs into the next until.....you forget the day. I haven't been as crafty as I would like, and in turn, I gave my mom her Mother's Day present last week. I made her a tall, deep tote out of some decorator weight fabric that I love. (Hopefully I can get a picture of it soon!). To my dad, my sisters and I were a little perplexed. It's always hard to figure out what to get him. So we gifted him with an American Express giftcard that he can use any way and time he chooses! I didn't get the chance to say my thoughts to them on this day, so excuse me for being late, but in honor of my mother and father:

I would like to say thank you. Thank you for the lessons taught over the years, for imbuing me with a strong sense of right and wrong, to search for the truth, to never stop learning, to always work hard, that your word is mighty, and that your family is everything. You taught me the unending love from a parent to a child, even when they have disappointed you, that mistakes happen, and that you are always there. You made me independent, fiercely loyal, and as stubborn as a mule. But you taught me the wisdom of holding my tongue, the joy in a job well done, and the importance of faith. I have seen you both face trials, and through your own survival, have learned how to survive my own. As parents you both made sure that you did the very best you could, and in doing so, showed me the path to parenting my own children. And, in all things, you taught me that doing what is right will not always make me happy. I am honored to be your child, and even more so honored to be descended from your parents. To have such dynamic, respected, and well loved parents and grandparents made the standard that much higher for your own children. I will always strive to reach that standard, however great the number of times I may fail. I love you,

Today's Blog Is Momentarily Interrupted Due to....

2010-06-14T05:15:00.004-04:00

the fact that I was asked to guest blog over at

Can you believe it?? Someone asking me to write something on their blog? What was Ashley thinking? And I know that I am asking you for a little something extra. But I included a little quiz (the teacher in me couldn't help it) to get some feedback from some other people. And I would LOVE to hear your feedback on an idea I had. So if you will just hop on over to her blog and take the little quiz here, then I will have heard from my readers, too! And it isn't like voting in an election or anything.....your voice WILL be heard! (Haha- I couldn't refrain....). I know most of you are still sitting there shaking your heads, there may even be a few who are holding their heads in dismay, awash in disbelief that anyone would let a wild card such as myself post on their own perfectly nice blog. But I didn't mess anything up....or I don't think I did.....

Have a great Monday!

My, What Animals!

2010-05-31T11:46:00.012-04:00

A week ago, I purchased the book, "What's New, Cupcake?" If you haven't seen this book, it is delightful. The pictures, the idea that I could make such a sweet looking cupcake at home, it issued a challenge. It sounded something like, "Na, na, na, na....betcha can't make me!" So yesterday, I let the kids wander through the book and they finally decided upon a project for us to undertake.

They decided upon some wild animals in the reeds. First, let me issue this disclaimer-it was expensive to go purchase all the materials for this. There has to be a way that you can purchase the sugar in larger quantities than what is available at Michael's. We had to have Nutter Butters, Jelly Beans, Pretzels, Candy Melts, Green Candy Strips (like a sour candy strip), Sugar sprinkles in Pink, Green, and Blue, Duncan Hines Buttercream Icing (Homestyle), Duncan Hines White Cake Mix, and Food Coloring. So, you see? The price tag was quite hefty. But maybe, just maybe, a little planning next time would help that. But, here are the finished results.......Aren't they cute? And honestly, the kids did almost all of it. I would demonstrate how to make the required creature, and the kids did the rest!

The flamingo.....Alex was responsible for these. Now, Abby and Devin assisted him. But he even made the candy wings. And, I love that they look like they are being held up. Like, "Please, don't shoot!"
The hippos were the easiest to make. But their cuteness is no less because of it, is it?

Now the crocodiles, they are precious, a little labor intensive, but so cute. I tried to get the teeth right, but instead I think it looks as if they swallowed some tablets of alka seltzer and they are foaming at the mouth.

Sometimes, the kids get on my nerves. Okay, maybe more than sometimes. Maybe a LOT of sometimes. But when we are all doing something like this together, it totally redeems them. Maybe.....

The End is Near....

2010-05-29T22:26:00.005-04:00

And no, I don't mean the world......I mean school! It's almost time for school to be out! I have been absent from my blog for over a week because it is nearly the end of school. The ending of a school year takes a lot of work. Not all of it joyous, nor momentous....but work nonetheless. This last week has also been filled with some proud moments. My nephew, Ryan, graduated from high school last night. He is such a handsome fellow, with a good heart, and to see the young man he has become fills me with pride. Some of you are new found friends, and you don't know that Ryan and his sister Caitlyn are always introduced as my first children. I was 10 when Caitlyn was born and 13 when Ryan was born. I was, like any child, fascinated by them. I was a constant visitor at my sister's house, until the point that Ryan became confused because he said I lived there but I didn't have any clothes there and I didn't sleep there. When he was little he would grab my cheeks and press them underneath his little hands and say, "My 'manda". And I have to say....he stole my heart. He loved big trucks, camoflauge, cowboy boots, and the great outdoors. Now I don't get to see so much of him, because he is too busy for me. But-I know that he is going to be successful in life, in all his endeavors. I love you, Ryan
Love,
"Your 'Manda"

I made it!!!

2010-05-18T20:40:00.005-04:00

I know, you probably are rolling your eyes, thinking that I am being a little dramatic. But, truly, this baby shower was a big deal. It's Nicole and Brad's first baby, and Kelly, Nancy, and myself really wanted it to be special. And I am lucky enough to work with people whom I love....Our school is such a great place to work. (If only there was a way to do it with no kids....haha...just kidding....maybe...) So, as promised, here are the pictures of the baby shower. I was a sweating hulk by the end of the day and felt much like a hunchback hulking in the corner waiting to serve everyone. I couldn't cool off for anything....but thankfully, I didn't ruin anything! After working so hard, I was glad that it all came together. It was pretty great for an at-school shower. (I say that being most sincere....there's not too much to do with decorating when you are in a school library!)

Aren't the flowers beautiful? The hydrangeas were a part of the tablescape while the bouquets were on the tables. Obviously, it had a onesie theme (if you can see the banner on the table).
Kelly is so talented when it comes to decorating...these cookies and cupcakes were all homemade-and delicious! And yes, I made some cake pops (the polka dot block in the background....) that were pretty divine.

Nicole brought her mom, grandmother, and sister to celebrate with her. She had lots of friends to help her celebrate, as well. It was a great celebration of this new stage of her life!

Tomorrow, Tomorrow, I love ya, Tomorrow.....

2010-05-17T22:13:00.002-04:00

I am going to post pictures tomorrow night, I promise. I am hosting a baby shower for Nicole, a co-worker, along with my fellow team teachers Nancy and Kelly. I have been busy the past two days baking, crafting, gluing....just plain workin'! It is going to be so stinkin' cute- but right now...I am so tired. I just have to sleep a bit. Pictures tomorrow....

Our First Family Garden!

2010-05-15T15:33:00.006-04:00

Today, the kids and I took on the task of building a raised bed and planting a vegetable garden. I knew it was going to be hot today, but we decided to get up early and get it accomplished! I have had gardens before, but I have never built a raised bed, and we have never planted one together. I was really surprised at how excited the kids were at helping. Let's face it- there's a lot of work in doing this, so the fact that they wanted to help out was a bonus. We only had two trips to Lowe's and probably a hundred bucks in soil and compost, but it's all good! We started in the back yard....and I had read to put landscape cover down on the grass to keep weeds out and it prevents you from having to scrape the top layer of grass. Let's hope this works....After this we had to put together the wood frame for the bed. Okay- everyone take a moment and just sit in awe- I handled the power tools myself. Oh yes I did! So maybe it was only drilling pilot holes and putting in 3.5 inch deck screws but let's all be proud of me for just a second.....and the kids helped hold the wood and Alex helped give me some weight on the drill for the screws to go in the wood easily. Then came the filling with dirt. It only took about 12 bags of soil and 8 bags of compost, or something to that effect. I didn't count exactly, but it was a lot. I opened the bags, threw them in the frame, and the kids emptied the bags into the bottom. It took a little bit, but we finally got it filled and raked out.

Don't they look proud? They were having a blast getting dirty! It was hard work, but we were getting to the fun part.

They were fighting one another over the chance to place the plant in the dirt. And we had quite a few to plant.

Tomatoes, and there are some cucumbers behind that plant.

Some sweet basil....who doesn't love fresh basil? And supposedly, it grows really well with tomatoes! (Believe it or not I tried to research companion gardening so that I would pick plants that would thrive together.)

So, our little garden has bell peppers, zucchini, crookneck squash, cucumbers, sweet banana peppers, jalapenos, onions, sweet basil, tomatoes, and cilantro. Did I leave out anything?

The kids were fantastic and I had lots of fun with them. I am hoping that this will make them feel proud and responsible when we start seeing the fruits of our labor!

Linked to:

Making Monday Marvelous at C.R.A.F.T.

My Favorite Childhood Memory....

2010-05-14T17:46:00.002-04:00

So, it's been an exhausting week. We have had standardized testing this week, so between my children at home being crazy, and my kids at school being crazy (4th graders don't always take to changes in schedule well), I have had a tiring week. *Embarassing but true-I actually stood in my classroom and cried yesterday afternoon. (And if you saw my post about crying, you know it's ugly!)*

So, say thank you to Diana, over at The Girl Creative for giving a topic for New Friend Friday. She asked us to all share a favorite childhood memory (and you are saying thank you because it is saving you from a tirade about what it is like to be a teacher AND a mother at the end of the school year!) on our blog.

So-a favorite childhood memory? Hmmmm....this is hard to choose. I had a pretty great childhood. I would have to say one favorite memory would be when it snowed in the winter of '87 (I believe the year is right-I was in 2nd grade!). It started snowing in the middle of the night- and for South Carolina- it was pretty much blizzard conditions outside. My family all lives in close proximity to one another, and my dad and his brothers and sisters all got together for breakfast at my aunt's. So that means tons of kids in one place, out of school, and its snowing! We had the most fun! It ended up snowing around 24 inches and we were out of school for over a week! In my life there have only been three big snowstorms, so this was a big deal. To those of you in other places, I realize that 24 inches is pretty paltry. But to us South Carolinians, it was of biblical proportions!

So, that is one of my favorite memories from childhood. What would you describe as one of your favorite memories?

In Other Hump Day News...

2010-05-12T20:36:00.006-04:00

Okay-who would have thunk it? Me, receiving an award?? This may be the sweetest thing anyone has ever bestowed upon me.....okay....not convincing? It definitely ranks up there! :) Who would know that anyone thought that my blog was fantastic? And obviously Mrs. A Trio of Boys , flattery will get you everywhere! Okay...on the the award.

The Versatile Blogger Award

The Rules for the award are:

1. Thank the person who gave you this award

2. Share 7 things about yourself.

3. Pass the award along to 15 bloggers who you have recently discovered and who you think are fantastic! (in no particular order...)
4. Contact the bloggers you've picked and let them know about the award.

Let's all imagine this is like an awards show, and I will see if I can come up with a speech (bless it- and for those of you who aren't from the south....that is said with a shake of the head and pity in the voice-I am such a nerd!).....

I would like to thank the author of A Trio of Boys for this blog award. I am a working mom of three and step-mom of three who is just trying to figure out how to work it all in a day. I am bull-headed, opinionated, and geeky- but with a sassy loyal streak. I am freakishly strong (or so some of my wussy friends at work tell me-you know I love ya, '77 and '71!). I love getting to know people and hearing their stories-one of my dreams is to write a book containing stories about everyday people. If I could live anywhere else in the world, it would be Italy. I haven't traveled to any other country except England and Italy, but the food in Italy rocks-plus they have an abundance of wine (don't you think that this economic depression would look so much better colored with a never ending supply of wine ?). I don't think that I actually have a high I.Q.- I am smart because I love to read anything I can get my hands on. If I want to learn about something-I read! And last, but not least, one of my dream job would be to become a book editor....I would get paid to read!

Passing this award on....hmmm....just 15 blogs? Let's see....

1.Leslie @ Night Owl Crafting

2. Ashley @ Simply Designing

3. Anne @ Anne's Antics

4. Heather @ The View From the Shoe

5. Kate @ Webster's Updates

6. Grace @ Sense and Simplicity

7. Brooke @ The Year I Was 30

8. Meg @ The Tucker's Take Tennessee

9. Joy@ Momma's Kinda Crafty

10. Terra H. @ Heck of a Bunch

11. Candi @ Little Bitty Spice Cakes

12. Kelsey @ Tattered and Inked

13. Missy @ The Little Green Bean

14. Char @ Crap I've Made

15. Carolyn @ My Backyard Eden

Hump Day News....

2010-05-12T16:52:00.003-04:00

Around our house, we call Wednesday "Hump Day". Why? Because it is like a hump in the middle of the week-from here its all downhill? :) So, let's get on to the biggest news....THE GIVEAWAY! Who knew that so many people would be interested? (I really thought that it would be embarassingly empty on the comments and I would have to bribe my best friend and sister to post some comments so I could do a faux giveaway!). I never guessed that today I would have 33 followers!!! (Maybe I should do a giveaway every 20 followers? haha!) So, without out any further delays the winner is:So commenter number 7, Candi from Little Bitty SpiceCakes won the giveaway. She found me from Twee Poppet's Tag-Along Tuesday! I will be emailing Candi shortly to find out what her choice is!

And, on other news, I was featured on Night Owl Crafting! That is pretty exciting! I hope everyone is having a great week- as soon as our state standardized testing is over my life will be a little easier!

I laugh at the craziest things! (and a Giveaway!)

2010-05-10T22:22:00.009-04:00

I know, I haven't posted a picture of anything I have made since last week. So, here are some things I have been working on.......

It's a diaper pad. I saw a tutorial over at Night Owl Crafting and I have to say that I wanted to try it out. But I don't like to always follow directions (those of you that know me, I know you are surprised) and so I tried out a different configuration. I used quilting fabric backed with an interfacing and rip-stop nylon with a layer of batting in between (every baby butt needs a little cushion when being changed-don't you think?). I was very pleased with how it looked.Bright and cheery- and because it is made with the rip-stop nylon it is really lightweight and easy to fold.
The next is a quilted baby burpcloth. I had some extra fabric sitting around and put it together. The front is plain white, but the back is quilted. I love the bright cheery colors!

Now, I understand that you may not quite comprehend what you are looking at here. It is a baby washcloth! It is made with a layer of flannel and backed with chenille. These things are super soft and make me long for the smell of Baby Magic. I don't care who you are- that smell will make you melt. Sweetness in a bottle.

On to other business......You are probably a little perplexed by my title. But I do laugh at the craziest things. Let me get to it...I am working my way to explaining it....Does anyone remember this post from a few weeks ago? I talked about my obsessions....well folks let me tell you. I finally ordered fabric off the internet!! I will confess that I haven't cut it yet, but I will-I just have to plan it so I don't feel like I am wasting it! And, has anyone looked at my follower count?? I know, it's not 100, or 400, and it's definitely not Pioneer Woman status. But my little blog went from 2 followers about two months ago to 21 followers today!! I broke 20 followers!! That is why I am laughing. I get so excited over this....

I don't have any sponsors for my blog, (although if there is anyone who wants to help sponsor my six kids and their future endeavors, contact me....lol) so I don't have anything that is professionally made to giveaway. But, to thank all of you 21 followers out there that follow my blog and read my crappy writing....this is for you. I am giving away things that I have made. I know you wished it was better. But you get to pick between one of the handmade items that I made above. (Just think-you may not have a baby, but if you have a baby shower to attend sometime, it could be a free gift!).

The rules to enter:

1.Be a follower.

2.Leave a comment (make sure there is a way for me to get in touch with you)

Boy, I am such a softie. I don't like to make it very complicated....Here's to hoping that someone wants it.....

I will choose the winner (if anyone comments) on Wednesday morning! Happy commenting!

Growing up....

2010-05-08T08:59:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was Sophie's Mother's Day Tea at school. I decided to take my last personal day for the year so that I could attend. First, I would like to say, as a disclaimer, that the video played was your standard photo slide show that was accompanied by your standard cheesy music. Think, "Butterfly Kisses" by Bob Carlisle. And normally, I am pretty non-teary. For one reason- if I start crying- it's ugly. UGLY. Think eyeliner streaking, face getting blotchy, lips all exaggerated. Straight up ugly. I am not like some of those actresses you see that their eyes get all glazed over looking and then the tears just start streaming down their face. Nah. My tears are violent, shooting out of my eyes, acting like an internal explosion is propelling them away from my face. So- I prefer not to cry in public. It's just me. If you were there, you would thank me. I had prepared myself for the cheesy music. It's part and parcel of the game. I had even prepared myself for the pictures. What I hadn't prepared myself for? The physical evidence that my little Sophie was getting older. Why do I say getting older? Well, as many of you know (and for those of you who don't know) I have had the luxury of Sophie being little for, well, her whole life. We couldn't turn her car seat forward facing until she was 2, and even then, she wasn't twenty pounds. Even now, she's only between 34 and 35 pounds, and she will be 5 in August. So, I haven't had to deal with all the emotions that a lot of mothers go through with their babies of watching them get so big and wondering where the time went. But yesterday, seeing the pictures from the first of the year, compared with those at the end of the year. It was proof that she had grown. And she had changed. She still looked like a baby at the first of the year (and starting 4k- she was still 3 for a few days) and now, she was still little, but she looked OLDER. So, I found myself teary eyed watching this little video.

I was so glad that I went, and Sophie was so proud to have me there. As a teacher I can't hardly ever attend things that my children are doing. So, in turn, I feel like I don't ever get to see programs and other daytime school events. Sophie had so much fun showing me off to her classmates! I also found out that one of the parents of Sophie's classmates (and a girl that I went to school with) reads my little blog- so a shout out to Jackson and Wendy! (And you know I don't want to leave out my best girl Amy and her son Alden!). Sophie's teacher did a great job planning it and we had lots of fun!

A Crafty Saturday

2010-05-02T22:17:00.015-04:00

After the day spent at the Spring Fling I descended into the craft dungeon. Three hours later........this is what came out into the dark of night with me (it was light when I went down there, dark when I came out!)

The first is a bib for Parker, the not-yet-born baby of Nicole and Brad that I mentioned here. This is the first time I have ever made a bib. I had a pattern, but in true Amanda fashion I decided that bib was too big for a newborn or infant. So, I made my own pattern. I tried to take a minute or two to think about what I hated the most when it came to bibs. It has been awhile so I had to really contemplate this..... It would have to be the way they close at the back of the neck. Trying to tie or snap a bib onto a wiggly infant is a little tough. So, I covered a piece of elastic and secured it to both ends of the bib, thus making it so that it can be slipped over the baby's head. I made sure that it was a little larger, which meant that it wouldn't get whatever was on the bib on the baby's face when taking it off. I made it using brown minky, quilting fabric, and with a piece of diaper cloth fabric in between the two layers to make it more absorbent. Overall, I think that it is super cute, and it matches his blanket! What do you think?

The blanket was made as a gift to Abby's teacher. She is expecting her first baby in June, and sense I had the leftovers from Parker's blanket, this was pretty easy. Abby has been begging me to make something that she could give her. Would you like this as a baby present?
So, this was the extent of my crafting this weekend (I did make Sophie a new outfit last week- but I will show you a picture of that later!). Have a great week!

Doin' our thing at the Spring Fling!

2010-05-02T21:54:00.005-04:00

Okay, I know that was cheesy. Oh well, it sounded cute when I thought of it. This weekend was the annual Spring Fling in downtown Spartanburg. It was great this year! The kids rode an assortment of rides, jumped on inflatables, and had their faces painted (well the girls did, the boys chose to buy a coke with their money). Here are a few pictures of a day that was filled with fun!

This picture was taken before we actually "hit the street" under the clock tower. I couldn't help it- I love Sophie's elbow cocked and turned- like, "I'm ready." The kids enjoyed themselves so much-it definitely made the weekend!

Pre-Teen Angst and a Mother's Tears...

2010-04-27T21:38:00.004-04:00

Ten and a half years ago I gave birth (which, thankfully, I will spare you the details of- go ahead and say Thank You!) to my oldest daughter, Savannah. A sweeter baby there never was, I swear to you. She slept all the time, she ate well and grew steadily. I tell you....a perfect first child. Over the years she has retained that sweet status, and has become a sensitive, compassionate soul. But lately. Lately. I think I could hurt her. Oh dear god, she is going to kill me. The deep breaths, the hands crossed over her chest, the narrowing of her eyes, and the silent treatment. These have been what I have witnessed from my sweet baby. Why? Why must hormones make her crazy? I guess it's coming to that time. The next eight years are going to be the Valley of the Shadow of Death. I knew it was going to happen sometime- I just didn't expect the alien kidnapping of my daughter to happen so soon. Is there anything to make it easier?

Babies galore....

2010-04-27T20:46:00.005-04:00

I told you, in an earlier post, that this is the time for babies and brides. This past Sunday I decided to make a baby blanket for my co-worker and friend, Nicole. Nicole and Brad are expecting their first baby, and just recently found out that they are having a boy! They decided on a name, and as soon as she told me, I started thinking about what I could make. This is what I chose.....

The front is regular quilting fabric, while the back is super soft dark brown minky. What do you think?

Too sweet....

2010-04-21T21:14:00.009-04:00

Okay, I just finished this outfit, and I had to share. I blogged last week about meeting with my friend, Brooke, and her little girl Ella. I measured Ella to make her two outfits. I knew that they would be cute, but I had no idea how much I would love them! This is the first of her outfits. We decided to make her a dress, a pair of capris, and a matching t-shirt. This way she would have three outfits to wear from the three items. I haven't made the t-shirt yet, although I have a great idea for it and can't wait to get started! This is the dress:
How cute is that dress? It makes me happy just to think of little Ella in this dress! I think I am going to make Abby and Sophie one of these!

Pink polka dot capris? Love them! So simple, yet so cute! A ruffle makes them perfect. But look.....

This is sweetness personified! It turned out just as cute as I had hoped. What do you think?

Linked to:
”>
Sugar and Spice Link Party @ Seven Thirty-Three

Sunday in Cowpens, SC....

2010-04-20T20:25:00.004-04:00

Do you ever wonder how you spend your time in Cowpens, SC? My parents live on Lake Blalock, and the kids love going there to visit. But, during the summer there is lots to do to keep them busy- mostly swimming in the lake and riding on the boat. This past Sunday, it wasn't summer. The lake was too cold for the kids to play in, so what is there to do at the grandparent's house when you can't play in the lake? Why, you walk a half mile to the bridge to watch a train go by and throw rocks on the tracks!

My sister Ashlee, and her dog Dixie walked with us, too. (Savannah didn't go- she waited for us by sleeping on my parent's couch-she had a headache :( )
You can see that they love throwing the rocks down on the tracks. I am not sure what about this appeals to them. A few minutes before, a train (it must have been a half-mile in length) had passed by. The kids loved seeing this.

And yes, I like to let my children play on bridges. :)

Sophie likes to boss Devin around at ANY given time.

But when you see what Sophie is looking at, it's pretty great.

What kid wouldn't love to see train tracks like that, laid out before them? Sophie loves trains- so this is right up her alley.

And on the way back- the kids got to visit with their Aunt Ashlee, while I got to talk to mom. All in all- the kids have a great time every time we go over there. And I am sure many trips to the train tracks are in store for us !

Surprise!!!

2010-04-20T12:53:00.003-04:00

Notice anything different???!! How great does my little blog look now?! Diana at The Girl Creative whipped up this great looking page for me- and I must say that she did a wonderful job. My blog design was something that always vexed me- I was proud of doing it on my own, but I couldn't be objective about it. But, thanks to Diana, I don't have that problem. What do you think of the new look?

Happy Birthday Caitlin!

2010-04-19T09:06:00.005-04:00

I am a bad stepmom. Maybe not bad....maybe not the most timely....that sounds better, don't you think? Well, I can say I didn't want to deal with the pictures. I admit...sometimes I get in those kind of moods. On to the subject at hand-

April 12 was Caitlin's birthday. Unfortunately it was a Monday and we didn't get to celebrate it because of PTA night at my school. However, on Tuesday she was treated to her birthday meal (the kids get to choose whatever they like for their meal and everyone else is subjected to it! ) And some birthday cupcakes. I also made homemade ice cream. She turned 9. Caitlin is funny, sarcastic, and all business. Her teachers love her, she is smart, and she and Savannah are thicker than thieves! Happy Birthday Caitlin!

Wow!

2010-04-17T22:58:00.002-04:00

Okay, so today has been a pretty great day. First, I straightened up the house last night. Yes, I was exhausted from school. Yes, I thought it was a horrible idea last night-but this morning I realized-it was a great idea. Second, I got to see a friend that I grew up with and her daughter this morning. Brooke, who also blogs here, brought Ella over for me to measure for a couple of outfits. Now I have to say, Ella was precious. The older Sophie gets, the more precious little ones look to me. But I only look, no buying in that department. :) Third, 5 of the 6 kids accompanied me to REI in Charlotte today. Armed with a dividend check and a coupon we walked out with four kids towing new summer sandals. So maybe we looked like a traveling circus...so what? And then, after the harrowing experience of having to murder a bug (here in the Palmetto State we call them Palmetto Bugs- but thats just because we can all spin a tale-it was a roach people, crawling on the ceiling-or at least I think it was....maybe....I was kind of grossed out.) I logged onto the computer. Imagine my amazement when I saw that Ashley, at Simply Designing- Home, Floral, Seasonal Crafts & Designs had featured me on her blog! Well, okay....she featured the baby onesie I made. Maybe not me...but it was my creation!!! Anyways....thanks for the shout out Ashley! It made a great end to a fun day!

What happened?

2010-04-16T22:32:00.002-04:00

About three weeks ago, I redesigned my blog. Then, I got tired of the green background. I know, I know....I am fickle. But I can't help it. I want something that says ME- and this is not it. So, I erased the background. Then, the past two nights, I tried with all my might (or as hard as I could at 11 at night) to replace it with something that I liked, but I failed. And then, in a moment of clarity- I decided upon a momentuous decision. I went over to The Girl Creative and made a deposit for her to re-re-design my blog. I know, you may think this a rash decision. But folks, I have other things that I would rather be doing. Like sewing. Or any crafting. Or cleaning. Or laundry. These all take precedent over blog design. And really- I know how to do lots of things- why not let someone else do what they know? And, she is much better than I am. That's why I am paying her. :) So check back in and let me know what you think!

Obsessions.....

2010-04-15T22:38:00.002-04:00

Do you ever get obsessed about anything? Some things that seem to held me hostage lately:

1. Fabric- I love looking at fabric designers' blogs and reading about their design process and thoughts. Blogs by Heather Bailey and Anna Marie Horner are among my favorite. Their fabrics are so saturated with color and so graphically rich- beautiful is an understatement. I sometimes find myself searching for stores online that sell their fabric. I spend lots of time doing this. I search, I find, I place in the shopping cart, and I NEVER purchase. NEVER. It's so depressing. Why do I never purchase the fabric? I don't know. It's like a mythical creature that you dream about but know it will never appear before you. I am not so sure that I would even be able to cut the fabric. I am that obsessed with it. Geez- that sounds bad.

2. Blogs- I have become a blog stalker. Sometimes I comment on other blogs, sometimes I participate in a link party, and other times I just roam the great blue catching a glimmer of the lives of all those people that I would never have met otherwise. (And on a side note, I have been thinking about starting a craft blog-where I could post everything that I made, but am unsure about this at the moment. What are your thoughts about that?)

3. The Live-Feed and Visitor Counter- look over to the side and scroll down a little, you will find it. Yep, I am obsessed with those things! I wondered if anyone was visiting my blog, and then- I found out they were! Now, instead of resting easy- I am obsessed with seeing where they come from! I am such a cheeseball!

4. The Smithsonian and National Geographic HD channels- Dear Lord, save me now! Not only is the picture quality on these channels fantastic- they have stuff about Ancient Egypt, Babylon, the Hittites, and Ancient Rome in their regular programming!

So, these are a few of the things that I have been obsessing about lately. And when I say a few, I mean a few. There are others where those came from! What do you obsess about?

Baby gifts....

2010-04-11T20:13:00.005-04:00

It seems that spring and summer is the time for bridal and baby gifts, and I had seen some sweet onesies online that were decorated with ruffles on the butt (for a girl, of course). I absolutely loved the idea, and would have loved one for my girls when they were babies, so I though that I might try one or two out before I actually decided to give one as a gift. I did two test runs. What do you think?

I love the ruffles on the back! I was very happy with how the second one turned out. My first trial run, the ruffles had too much fabric and didn't lay just right. I know that most babies wouldn't be wearing this onesie by the time they are six months and old enough to sit up, but the extra fabric looked to me like it would be uncomfortable to a wee one trying to sit up. If you would like the first one that I made, you can have it. Just email me @ atblanton78@yahoo.com with your mailing information and I will send it to you! (I really can't keep stockpiling all those first runs that I make- I don't have room with all of these kids!).

href="http://iheartnaptime.blogspot.com/" width="125"
src="http://i339.photobucket.com/albums/n454/jamielynnye/blog_Page_01-2.jpg"
height="125"/>

Terrific Tuesday?

2010-04-06T17:58:00.003-04:00

Is it really a terrific Tuesday? I had to return to work (my Spring Break is officially over) and yesterday I really wanted to make a patchwork skirt for Sophie. I had purchased the fabric (fat quarters) at the Inman Quilting Cottage (if you live in the Spartanburg/Inman area- she has some BEAUTIFUL fabric there!)and it was one thing that I wanted to cross off my to-do list. I chose some really fun, spring colors and I think the end result was great. Now- I didn't use a pattern for this one, but I had made Sophie a patchwork skirt in the fall, so I had an idea about how to put it together. The one thing that didn't work with the skirt last time was that it had SOOOOOO much fabric. I think it used almost two yards of fabric. And Sophie is tiny. I had to use a binder clip to clip it to her leggings so that it wouldn't fall down because it was so heavy! The one that I made yesterday did much better. If anyone would like to know how I made it, I can certainly show you (I still have some cuttings of the fabric so it would be easy to do). Let me know what you think!

Marvelous Monday

2010-04-05T08:26:00.004-04:00

On Saturday morning I woke up, turned over in bed, and saw this.....

Caitlin and Sophie were whispering, leaning out the window, and when I saw their hands- one was holding a plastic sword and the other was holding a silver fairy wand. They were acting like they were fighting off invaders. Then, all of a sudden, Sophie said, "Okay!" and took off running down the stairs. I didn't think anything of it- until I heard the front door open. I sat up in bed and looked down- and saw Sophie in her t-shirt and panties, in the front yard, and she yelled, "Throw it now!" About that time- Caitlin threw the plastic sword towards Sophie in the front yard. Of course, it didn't make it. The sword landed in the gutter. And then my four year old is standing out in the front yard, in a t-shirt and panties, yelling, "CAITLIN!" Of course, I was yelling, "Get back inside" and running downstairs to yank her back in the door. When I asked her why she ran outside she looked at me and said, "We were just playing (except it sounded like pwayin') pirates." Of course....a good reason to run outside in your underwear!

Road Trip in Fast Forward....

2010-03-31T18:47:00.001-04:00

I don't know about anyone else, but I have been looking forward to Spring Break for weeks. Okay, if the truth has to be known- since Christmas Break. But I am going to let you in on a trade secret. That's how teachers operate. Sorry. Can't help it. Just comes with the territory. I have been exhausted and felt like I was hardly hanging on by the end. So I figured that some rest and relaxation were in order. So, Friday night, Steve, Alex, and myself went out to eat and went to see The Green Zone, starring Matt Damon. (And for those of you that are fans of the Harry Potter series, the CIA liason in the movie is the same actor that played Mad Eye Mooney!!!) We came home, I was in bed by 11, slept until 9. I felt good. I was determined not to do anything too stressful. I wanted to rest. Then I talked to my partner in crime-a.k.a. my sister Carmie. After some debate, we decided that we were going to go to Atlanta. I know- not exactly restful. Maybe a little spur of the moment. Well, actually, what we decided was to go to Raleigh. We put it in Mapquest and found out that the reason it seemed like such a long way away when we were going to Virginia is that it is 4 hours away! So, just like that, change of plans. We were going to Atlanta.

There were really just two stores that we wanted to visit in Hotlanta- Dick Blick's Art Supply Store

and Archiver's. If you are a paper crafter and have never visited an Archiver's store- you are missing your Mecca. Make your trip to the shrine, leave some offerings (money), and walk away with some blessings- truly. Archiver's has everything under one roof that you could think about in relation to card making, scrapbooking, you name it- they have it. I was super excited to pick up a couple of new stamps and some other supplies.

I got off track. I was talking about our trip, and all of a sudden I am giving free publicity to Archiver's! (And I was NOT paid to say those nice things!!) So, after driving three hours, we stopped at exactly three stores, and we were home by ten p.m. Talk about whirlwind trip.

Whew. I was exhausted. Not the purpose of Spring Break, to be sure- but then again, I felt like I had been somewhere, so that the real work of resting during my spring break could begin.

Sunday morning dawned, the phone rang. I sleepily got out of bed, was walking downstairs to answer said phone, and promptly fell down the stairs. I know you are wondering if you read that right. You did. I. Fell. Down. The. Stairs. Put that on your bucket list of things NOT to do after the age of 12. I swear to you that my coccyx (okay- between saying that and Dick Blick I feel like I am a sixth grader sitting in a sex ed class trying not to giggle), or tailbone, felt like it has been split in two. I am just now starting to feel better!

Even though I was hurting from my little tumble I decided that I had a list of things that I wanted to do- and I wasn't going to let a little pain slow me down. So on Monday, I redesigned my blog and decided to make Abby a skirt.

This skirt was sooooo easy! I can't stress that enough! It took me a little over an hour to make- and it turned out so sweet. I can't tell if this is a sign that I am becoming a better seamstress, or if I am becoming more confident- but I did it without one pattern! This skirt was literally just cutting out rectangles of fabric. I love it. This would work for little girls as early as 12 months up to adult women! I think Abby is going to be pleased- what do you think?

On Tuesday I decided I was going to tackle the job of remaking our little table in the kitchen. My aunt had lucked up and found this table at a flea market- and my mom had started painting it, but had never finished. It was okay, but after a couple of years of being abused, the white paint was starting to look pretty poorly. So, I decided that we were going to paint it black, like our large dining table in the kitchen. Here it is before:

I made sure to buy enough paintbrushes for everyone to help- and we sanded the table down and set up shop outside on the driveway. Of course, they had to get as much paint on them as possible. It wouldn't be any fun if they stayed clean, now would it?

Case in point: If you look at the lower part of Sophie's arm you can see that there is pain on the lower part of her arm. What you can't see is that it is also on her legs, her shirt, and somehow, in her hair. But I digress- the point was to have fun together. And we did.

After some paper, a few hours cutting and pasting with mod-podge, and a layer of polycrilic- it was done. What do you think? (Please disregard the light saber in the basket above the table. It's Sophie's. She wants to make sure that she is ready for intruders at any given moment. She wouldn't want to be surprised while she was eating.)So once again- this is before. And After.

Sorry for not cleaning off the chalkboard, so that it would look all neat and like there isn't six million kids traipsing through my house at any given moment. But I thought that I was doing well to make it look like the floor was clean. :)

And today- because it was on my list of things to do. We cleaned out the garage. We made it a family affair. And it took us about four hours. Have you ever seen those commercials for the show Hoarders on TLC? Okay. So maybe it wasn't quite that bad. The real truth is- you couldn't walk. There are at least ten bikes or apparatus' with wheels out there, a lawn mower, all the stuff from where I moved in two and a half years ago, and it had grown to be a mountain in there. So, after four hours, some elbow grease, and bribes to keep the kids working with us-this is what it looks like.

I am so glad to have that done- but I feel sorry for the guy who picks up the trash and the woman who picks up our recycling! Hopefully they will forgive us!

I am pleased with all that I have gotten done so far. What have you accomplished this week?

What do you think?

2010-03-29T11:08:00.007-04:00

I decided to redesign my blog- the last design was too busy and now that I am blogging again....I could no longer ignore it. Let me know what you think of it, or anything I may need to change....you can email me @ atblanton78@yahoo.com

Thanks!

Happy Birthday Abby!

2010-03-25T13:48:00.004-04:00

7 years ago today I got to meet my precious Abby. She is all girl- fun and smart. She loves to read, play dress up, and wishes to one day be in a beauty pageant (I swear she does!). She had colic when she was born, making the going rough there for us at first. She has the most tender heart, wanting to please everyone. (It must be the middle child syndrome!) She literally believes that she is a princess, and at seven she commands quite a presence wherever she goes. I am so grateful that I have been gifted with such a sweet, beautiful girl. I would like to say that I can't wait to see what she is going to be like when she grows up, but I am enjoying her a lot right now- so let's not rush the inevitable!

A family history- sewn, not written....

2010-03-23T09:24:00.007-04:00

(quilt top made by my great-grandmother and backed by my grandmother)

I grew up in a pretty rural community. It was nothing like the midwest, houses separated by miles, but our little community didn't have a lot in the way of creature comforts. Our social circles consisted of family and church- and being part of a large family meant that my church family was 75% of my related family. My grandmother and other women in the church would sometimes get together to quilt in the fellowship building. I have memories of crawling on the floor under the quilt frame, looking up as the needles punctured the fabric and lead the thread through to the next stitch. I was mesmerized by the tedious work and their dedication to making sure it was done correctly.

Fast forward to 1999. I was expecting my first child and I was married. When I married my mother gave me a quilt that had been made by both my grandmother and great-grandmother, for whom I am named. I thought it was beautiful, but being 21, I didn't realize the true worth of that quilt. Then, in August, my daughter, Savannah was born. She had severe complications, and 10 hours after her birth they called an ambulance ot take her from Spartanburg Regional Medical Center to Richmond Memorial Hospital in Columbia. Michael and I were 21 and 22. We had nothing- certainly not the money to stay in a hotel for what seemed like an infinite amount of time. Then, the social worker at the hospital directed us to the Ronald McDonald House in Columbia. (I can not say enough about this charity-but now is not the time- if you ever are looking for a charity that touches the lives of individuals- donate to them!!!) When we checked in at this lovely victorian home they presented us with a quilt made by the wonderful ladies of the Columbia Quilting Guild. It was a simple quilt. A cloth book taken apart and stitched together to form a rectangle. When they presented it to us, it was a gift to Savannah- and I think I cried on it every night of the eight nights that we were guests there.

I had packed up the quilt given to me at my wedding and Savannah's quilt so that they wouldn't get eaten by moths or so that little hands couldn't ruin them. Then, amazingly, I started to sew. More and more, when visiting the cloth store, I would think about those quilts. And I decided to take them out. Why should they be packed away where they can't be seen and enjoyed? And Now, I look on the back of my couch, at the quilt that is there. The colorful patchwork quilt that has those tiny hand-sewn stitches. And I think to myself- my great-grandmother touched this quilt. A woman who I never had the honor to meet, but whose name I carry- she touched every stitch. I sometimes rub my hands over those stitches and wonder, if years ago, she did the same thing when she was making it. Taking out the quilt gave me the opportunity to show Savannah her quilt. I told her the story of us being presented the quilt, of my love for her, and my fear that she would not escape the clutches of the mysterious illness that held her suspended in its grip the first ten days of her life. She now has the quilt on the end of her bed.

I tell you this because I have recently decided to do a family tree quilt. Now, let's not get ahead of ourselves. I have none of the intricate patterns of the heirloom quilts, this is more of an art quilt. And I am daunted by the size of the project. I have never done anything like this before. But in true Amanda fashion, I am not going to let that stop me. I am diving right in! And someday, when they run their hands over the stitches, they will remember me, sitting up late at night, embroidering their names onto the branches, leaving space for their future.

Something to blow your mind.....

2010-03-21T19:19:00.002-04:00

About six months ago, I was driving home from school after a long day at work. It was a PTA night. LONG is the only word that fits to describe those days. My Blackberry dinged on the seat beside me, indicating that I had an email. When I got home, I checked my email to make sure that it was nothing that required my prompt attention. I was surprised to see that an executive producer for a Los Angeles based television studio had emailed me asking me if my family might be interested in talking with them about a reality show loosely based on the Brady Bunch idea. Guess where they found out about our family? That's right! THIS BLOG!

When I first got the email I started looking around, wondering if I was on candid camera, or speculating that this might be a practical joke. I looked over to the other couch, where Steve was sitting (because sitting close might be sweet when you are dating, but we all know that marriage means finding comfort AND your own space on the other couch) and dazedly asked him what he thought of the idea. I have to say, after the Jon & Kate debacle, I was quite scared to even write the producer back. The thought of exposing yourself to anyone like that is a little frightening. But Steve, not following my line of thought, said, "If it will pay for them to go to college, YES- write them back!" Of course, I know nothing about compensation for those type of things, so I just looked at him and said that I would respond.

This began a journey of phone interviews, sending pictures and information, and of course, many emails. We did find out that we were one of five families being considered, other families had auditioned, from what I understood. I was pretty floored- in the top five? US? I know that we are funny, but I was not sure we would be that entertaining.

Fast forward to late January- and we found out that right now, they were unable to secure a network to fund the show. And I am okay with that. But how funny is it that all that happened, just by someone looking up my blog? And do you know what the producer said when he was talking to me on the phone? "You never know who might stumble across your blog- so keep it up!"

I really was ambivalent about the whole thing- I have never thought much about doing anything other than what I am doing now- trying to stay above water! So, it all works out in the end...but it did blow my mind that we got that far in the process, having never pursued it!

Do you remember....

2010-03-20T18:21:00.003-04:00

There was a time, not THAT long ago, when I filled my blog with posts. They came several times a week, usually with pictures. I wrote so easily, the words seemed to come out of my mind, across my keyboard with such virtual ease that I never thought about it at all. I now find myself tongue tied. Why? I am not sure. I think that writing often made me feel more familiar with everyone. Someone told me the other day that they had read my blog and really liked it. Why didn't I post more often? And all I could do is look at them, dumbfounded.

Because I DON'T KNOW!!!

And I hate to give up. That seems the easy way out. And who likes easy?

So, now, let's get to know each other again. What do you think?

P.S. Sometimes, its nice to know that people are out there reading this. That means leave some comment love...not every time....just every once in a while is nice....

A Bowling Birthday!

2010-02-09T19:16:00.002-05:00

There are times, when you have all six kids trapped in the house after a winter monsoon, that you are so excited to have something to do, that a birthday party seems more like an exotic getaway than a chaotic jumble of small knee-huggers running around tripping you up at every turn. Sophie's arranged husband, Alden, (a.k.a., my best friends son) had his five year old birthday party at Star Lanes. This was not the kids first time bowling, but they have so much fun! Of course, the adults joined in the celebration and lots of fun was had by all. We all enjoyed the homemade strawberry cupcakes that Amy made for his birthday! Thanks, Amy, for all the fun!

Sophie and Alden checking over the scores (I say that because it sounds cute, but actually I think they were pressing all the buttons and got reprimanded by the bowling beauty that was assigned to our party).

This strange ramp-like contraption helped the little ones to actually get the ball up to speed so it could knock down a pin or two!

Devin throwing the ball down the lane.

It was a birthday bonanza! All the kids in the background were there for other parties! It was loud and crazy!

Abby and Sophie posing for the camera!

Happy (late) New Year!

2010-02-03T09:17:00.002-05:00

Let's act like the prerequisite apologies about it having been so long since I posted are behind us! I have been gone so long I was actually dreading writing a blog! Can you believe it? The holidays were great- but so busy that I was exhausted by the time they were gone! Then, our family rang in the new year with Ye Olde Stomach Virus. A magical thing, indeed, when it takes two weeks to go through a family of 8 people!

I was able to be a little creative over the holidays. I ended up making quite a few handmade gifts! A messenger bag for Steve's niece Alexis, two pocketbooks, a paper collage for my mom, another pocketbook for Amy, a skirt for her daughter, Eleanor...the list adds up- and I must say it has been hard for me to touch my sewing maching since then. I have been a little leery of it. But this weekend that is coming to an end! I bought some new material to start making the girls some spring clothes and I also have a new project that I am starting. I have decided to try my hand at making a family tree quilt. I have the idea sketched out but find myself actually afraid to start! I am not sure why- but the actual idea of the task is daunting. It's okay, I'll get over it.

There has been so much going on- Alex tried out and made SC Region Band. This was a huge accomplishment! He is one of the only 7th graders to try out and actually make it! We are really proud of him! We have decided to take a break from sports this spring. I know! The Blantons aren't going to be the mainstay of BSYAA for this upcoming season. Steve and I thought about it, and we decided that we wanted a break, and we wanted to spend some time with the kids. Not going from one field to the other, but actual time!

I am going to update more- sorry for the hiatus!

2009-12-01T21:40:00.002-05:00

Where were you on Black Friday? I was in line at Target at 2:50 in the morning to catch some great deals on our Christmas shopping. Standing in line with Amy and my cousin Lauren made the time go by much faster- and we even had a little fun heckling people who were trying to get in line. (Yes, I did say heckling- while no fights started- boy, did people get upset!). We shopped until 11 in the morning. To say the least- I was exhausted. After cooking for Thanksgiving (and before you ask-no-I didn't host Thanksgiving dinner, but I still made my Sweet Potato Crunch and a Turtle Cheesecake) then having some fun on Thanksgiving afternoon with my sister and cousin- I was a little tired. I actually decided that my best course of action was to take my shower, get dressed, and then go to sleep-so I would be ready to roll!

Anyways, I digress. There was much shopping and then a nap planned for Friday afternoon. The girls and I were watching a movie and I was drifting in and out. Then suddenly- screaming and crying woke me up. Let me go ahead and say that whatever rest I might have gained in that thirty minutes was totally used up in the two seconds it took me to sit up and look around. Then, I focused on where the sound was emanating from- Sophie standing in the middle of the floor, holding her nose. Screaming, "It HURTS". Needless to say- she had stuck a hard, plastic bead up her nose. Please do not ask where the bead came from, I feel that is unimportant.

I think our conversation went something like this:
"WHY IN THE WORLD DID YOU DO THAT???" and I think that she replied, "I was just pwaying!" (she says her "r" sound like a "w").

Fast forward past the nose blowing and the tweezer-attempts to free the bead. We'll hop right to the part where we were driving to the Emergency Room. The part where Sophie was screaming, "It hurts!" and where I was screaming back, "If you hadn't stuck a bead up your nose you wouldn't have to worry about it!"

Poor Lauren (my cousin). Poor, poor Lauren. Well, I would like to think of this as great birth control for her.

Two hours later we emerge from the Emergency Room with the bead successfully extracted. And Lauren and I were more worn out than ever. But Sophie's nose was a-okay. Thankfully.

P.S. I really am glad she was okay-but Lord, she scared me!
P.P.S- My sister and I opened an Etsy store- wanna see what we have created? Go here- http://www.etsy.com/shop/sassysisters4331

Veteran's Day...

2009-11-11T09:12:00.002-05:00

I would like to say, "Happy Veteran's Day" but somehow that just seems a little too casual for the heaviness of the day. This morning, at school, the kids watched a video that talked about sacrifice, and I was reminded of this post that I wrote last year. My father is a Vietnam Veteran, and I am always reminded of his enormous sacrifice, as he left a wife and two young children at home to go around the world and serve his country. Sophie's grandfather served in WWII and was a participant in The Battle of the Bulge. He personally me Gen. George Patton and is a recipient of the Bronze Star.

These people, so important to our livelihood as Americans, surround us in our daily lives. Whether you agree with foreign policy, or war strategies- that doesn't matter. The fact that these people, ordinary in their daily lives, but extraordinary soldiers, have risked their lives so that we may have our freedom warrants our respect. Be sure to thank the veterans that you know today! :)

Sitting here....

2009-11-09T16:46:00.002-05:00

I am sitting here, at school, with nothing to do. Why do I have nothing to do? Well, to be honest, I have plenty to do. I have some things I could be putting on the walls, papers to grade, lesson plans to write....but the truth is- I just don't want to. I know that it is hard for you to believe, that I am just not doing something. But I am thinking of all the things that I would rather be doing.
I would rather be with my children.
I would rather be with my friends.
I would rather be sewing or crafting.

But I sit here in my classroom. *Sigh* (On a side note- I would like to say that I have only $199 to go to pay off my new sewing machine! I am SEW excited!!! - sorry- I couldn't help the ridiculous pun!).

Halloween 2009

2009-11-06T23:32:00.003-05:00

Halloween always seems to catch me off guard. I try to plan for it, I try to think about it beforehand- but then WHAM! The month of October finds me with no costumes in mind, no idea of any sort what six kids can dress up as for Halloween. This year was no exception. Two weeks before Halloween Savannah decided to be Dorothy, Caitlin decided to be a cat, Sophie a fairy, and Abby a witch. Devin said he wanted to be a vampire, and after much begging, he decided to dress up as Edward, instead of Count Dracula. I practically killed myself sewing Savannah's costume....but it did end up looking precious. These pictures are not so great, because by the time to go trick or treating- I was exhausted. And I must say- I painted Caitlin's face- and it looked really great. I am trying to convince the kids to go as animals next year!

What's happening in our world....

2009-11-06T22:21:00.003-05:00

Once upon a beautiful autumn day, four women set off in search of wool roving and knowledge about rug hooking. Up through the mountains they traveled, searching for the fount of wisdom on the animal fiber arts.
As they made their way to Asheville they happened upon the Southeastern Animal Fiber Fair at the North Carolina Agricultural Center. Behold the sight that we laid eyes upon when we walked into the first exhibition center.

I am not going to lie and say that all that animal hair lying there didn't freak me out a little. It did. But it was pretty neat, also.

Speaking of founts of wisdom, Carmie got to meet her hero there. Now this photo is a little blurred, and I will make all sorts of excuses- like that the lighting wasn't really that great, or that we were giddy with newfound knowledge- but Carmie says that she prefers it blurry. So I will post it anyway. The woman on the left, Joan Berner, hand-dyes her own wool roving and makes her own yarn. It is absolutely gorgeous. You can find out more about Joan and her operation at http://www.cloverleaffarms.com/. (If you are in the market for any roving or yarn- she is located in Hendersonville, NC- I love buying local!)

There were classes teaching how to spin your own yarn. You can't help but feel, when you walk around, that you are seeing something that is a lost art. We stood and just watched the rhythmic spinning of the wheel and these women making their own yarn- it was fascinating.

On a side note, this is my mom (in the denim jacket) and her friend Carol. They wanted to learn more about rug hooking (which really is a lost art). But they told all their friends they were going to a HOOKING convention- which of course, made my sister and I think of HOOKERS. So Carmie and I giggled like schoolgirls anytime we mentioned the "Hooking Convention".

Silent Sunday.....Hiking @ Table Rock State Park

2009-10-18T19:39:00.005-04:00

I'm Sew Excited....And I Just Can't Hide It!

2009-09-26T17:58:00.005-04:00

First off, you are probably looking at the title and wondering if I misspelled the word so.....and I didn't! I just wanted to share some good news with you! I placed my order today for a new sewing machine! While I am thankful for the hand-me -down machine that I had- I am extremely excited about getting a brand new machine. My new machine is going to be a Husqvarna Emerald 183. I know you probably don't care, but I am going to share a picture with you.....

I'm in love. But, it is pretty expensive. So, I traded the machine that I have (that was needing repairs) and am making payments to get my new machine. I am using my mom's Singer Sewing School machine until I get this one. So, if anyone wonders on what to get me for Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Valentine's, Labor Day....etc, you can now go by the Viking Store on Woodruff Rd. in Greenville and put some bucks down for me! HAHA!
I made these pants today for Sophie. My poor other children. I try out the patterns first for Sophie because tracing the smaller patterns seems easier to me....Like I said- poor things...Hope your rainy Saturday was as productive as mine!