Fun With the Baker 5

Decorating with Pops Of Color

2011-01-25T12:25:00.006-06:00

I took the built-in cabinet doors off of a cabinet in our master bedroom a couple of years ago...this is one of them. I hung a small wreath and a wrought iron planter on it, the planter was black ...so aqua to the rescue. I think I need to paint the frame of the door, any thoughts....? Red, black, fun green??

I added the large heart here, the mirror and a few more pics....I painted the tiny frame on the wall and the framed mirror...again an aqua color. (Dina, the small cross is from the necklace you made :)

I found the wooden six (unfinished) at Hobby Lobby for ONE PENNY, I glued it to a box frame and painted it aqua...it adds color to the ho hum shelving unit (from IKEA).

Another view of my hallway with added color.

This wall ONLY held the corrugated metal heart with the family sign....I added several hearts from around the house and it became a HEART wall. I really like the way it turned out.

See my red chairs? (of course you do) They were in my nursery at the church I grew up in, I kept them red....I have a pretty decent collection of small and tiny chairs throughout the house. All in varying sizes and colors.

The Stop sign was in our garage, its from the 50's....I love it and thought it'd be fitting in our den since it is the Pit Stop for our whole family and fitting that we have 4 children too. We painted almost our entire house last year or two years ago and this wall was STILL bare until yesterday. I added the door like in our kitchen but painted this one green. The canvas' I already had, I repainted them black and with white paint placed each of our children's hands on them with their ages, full names and birthdays hand painted under the hands. The edges of the canvas are very thick and I glued black and white polka dotted grosgrain ribbon on them. Between the pictures on the far right is a small red cross, it was silver so I used red METAL paint on it. I will have something between the sign and the pictures, just haven't come up with anything yet.....progression in my head though.

{this post brought to you by: Miss Strawberry Cupcake}

Little Lofton at three months

2011-01-05T08:43:00.003-06:00

We had our own little photo shoot in her bedroom yesterday, she was a little trooper.

I love some of her little faces she makes.

Love this girl!

Little smirk. he he

Sweet precious pumpkin pie.

Backside, I think we all could use bloomers with our names on them.

Hope you are all having a great new year! I'm not promising anything, but I'm HOPING that I can get back into the groove of regular posting. I miss coming and visiting your blogs as well. Later folks.

Baby Girl is Here

2010-10-15T20:27:00.004-05:00

Here she is...Lofton Grace, she was born Friday Oct. 8, 2010! Weight 6 lbs. 9 oz. 20 in. long. She was the smallest of all our babies. We are all doing well and we're completely in love with our glorious child of God. Lofton is a week old today, she has dimples just like her sister Bentley.

J.Crew Perfect Tees...even Perfect for Pregnant Gals

2010-09-15T21:17:00.003-05:00

The above picture was taken at almost 32 weeks.....in my FAVORITE gray J.Crew Perfect Tee that I've worn throughout my entire pregnancy. I am absolutely in love with these shirts, pregnant or not.

You can see here that I'm wearing the ruffle front perfect tee, it's lovely and fits wonderfully. I probably didn't look necessarily HOT (at 35 weeks) wearing anything I had on that day, but I felt cute and that's what matters. :)

Inspiration Photos

2010-09-02T15:39:00.005-05:00

the ceiling in this room is lovely!...love the white walls with the unexpected ceiling color.

The tutu, the leotard, the bows.......all wonderfully girl friendly and just plain fun. Thinking of making something like this for B-Girl for Halloween

Would like to make a mobile using this idea for baby girl.

Simple curtains using ribbon and I think, napkin rings.

pretty colors, really like the pink dresser between the beds

Heather Bailey's studio, the colors in here are divine.

I like to give credit where credit is due, but my inspiration file doesn't always have info that I need, only pictures.

Have a GREAT and long weekend.

Mc's Happy Birthday Post

2010-08-24T11:08:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to you!........Happy Birthday to you!

Happy Birthday Dear McQuinn, Happy Birthday Love you!!!!!!!!

{So sweet of dad to bring you home a cake last night, Yay for daddy...Happy Birthday Mister 3 year old!}

Baby Bedding for our Baby Girl

2010-08-16T15:30:00.003-05:00

A mix of Amy Butler's Love fabric (above and below) .........

and a mix of this.....

Crib Bedding from Target.......I finally decided on this set by Tiddliwinks (well priced and looks custom, especially if you mix and match it with things you have and new things). The bedding came via UPS today and I could not be more pleased.

I had this pillow made by Color Me Cute on Etsy......this is obviously the back of the pillow, the front of the pillow has HER name on it and we're not telling the name until she's here. (we're tricky that way) I seriously love everything about this pillow, vintage mixed with fun, vibrant colorfulness.....my favorite way to decorate.

Here is the sweet baby quilt, it is very pretty in person...like I said, GREAT price...but doesn't look cheap. This bedding will look so lovely with Bentley's twin bedding she already has, it's shabby chic (from Target as well). I've put the bedding side by side and it looks good without being "matchy matchy". I simply cannot wait to start putting their room together, a "Girly Getaway" it will be.......then on to getting the boys room, a.k.a. the "Boy Cabin" together. Think I can accomplish this in the next 8-ish weeks???

{A Cherry eater and Prego Mama at 30 Weeks}

2010-08-13T16:21:00.003-05:00

This is my precious little man, he'll be 3 in a few short days.

He LOVES cherries!!!!...loves them

He stands at the sink and waits for me to wash them and he eats them straight from the colander.

.......onto another subject. Me at 30 weeks pregnant. The side view is much better than the...

straight forward view, but what's a girl to do.?! Have a lovely weekend friends.

2 Firemen and a Pregnant Mama

2010-08-04T10:17:00.002-05:00

These two boys are peas in a pod, they really enjoy each other....I love that! Mc is almost 3 and L is 7. (Miss B was in the house at the time playing with her dolls I believe.)

Logie took some pics of me, don't you love how kids chop off people's heads in photos??!! *funny* In this pic. I was 27 weeks pregnant.

He didn't worry about chopping my head off in this one, just my entire upper body...ha ha.

I will begin my 30th week of preg. on Monday. Have a loverly day friends!! P.S. If you have any "must see" baby sites that I need to see let me know about them. smiles

All Is Well

2010-08-02T14:49:00.002-05:00

Hey Friends, all is well with me and baby #4...we've just been busy this summer and I just haven't felt like posting honestly. My due date is Oct. 18....so we've got about 10 weeks to go and little Miss will be here (poor thing is still not named, but she doesn't mind). I'll be posting pics pretty soon, maybe tonight or tomorrow if I feel ambitious.......did you know it's REALLY hot???? Yea, hot enough to make this mama want NOTHING to do with being ouside unless the sun is down or I'm in the pool. Hope you're all doing wonderfully and if you feel up to helping me name my little angel, send me suggestions. Chat soon.

They Have Something to Say

2010-04-19T21:30:00.002-05:00

{If you could please excuse the dirt, spaghetti, and juice stained children...it'd be much appreciated.}....like the news?? we do.

Baby Names, because it's on my mind

2010-04-08T12:27:00.002-05:00

McQuinn, not an infant...but babyhood nonetheless.

Logan, 2 years old and Bentley (newborn).

So, I'm thinking baby names lately. Jeff and I named each of the children a family last name either from my family or his and each of them have a family middle name as well. I'd like to stay with family names for baby #4, but I also want to LOVE the name as well...just as I do our current children names. I don't HAVE to come up with a name now, but it doesn't hurt thinking about it either.

Here are some names that I like for a girl:

(some family names and some not)

Elizabeth

Rebecca

Clara or Cora

Ella

Ann or Anna

Grace

Belle

Janey

Spencer

Carter

Dylan

Patton

Boy names:

Jeffrey

Blake

John

Palmer

Henry

Sheppard

Wiley

..........not many boys names that I have

Here's where YOU can help. Send me girl names and boy names that you REALLY love/like....I need suggestions. Give me as many names as you can and I'll add what I like to the ongoing list I keep handy. * Do you think this child would feel left out if I didn't do a family name??? I don't want to do a family name just to do it, I want to love it..ya know??!!

No more Baker 5

2010-03-24T09:44:00.002-05:00

...........because it will be Baker 6. Our new bundle will be here mid October. I was officially 10 weeks pregnant on Monday. It was QUITE a surprise to ALLOFUS, but we are happy nonetheless. :)
I'm sorry for the fact that my blogging has sort of halted as of recent, I've just had a LOT on my mind that I had to soak in.
Now all I need to do is have Mr. Baker get our bathroom finished, so I can post pics on that...............................and then on to reconfiguring bedrooms for our children and new baby, although that won't be happening until we find out "who" the baby is ...girl/boy??!
Hope you're all doing well and I'll be back soon. Love ya!

Artsy Project #2

2010-02-09T09:39:00.003-06:00

Last year I painted the canvas below for my cousin's little girl...baby Emma (who is now one). Just thought you might want see another project. My mind is swimming with crafty ideas lately and I cannot seem to get one thing started. This is probably due to my lack of laundering skills lately.

Her bedding looks exactly like the canvas, I wish I had taken a picture of the entire room...where was my head?!

Have a fab. day my friends. Stay warm and do your laundry. *smiles*

*my bathroom update: I still have unfinished painted cabinets and 3 diff. color swatches on the walls...i'm cool like that!.........but boy do I have ideas for that room.

Artsy Project

2010-02-02T11:58:00.005-06:00

I had to do a quick "art" post for the mere fact that I'm tired of looking at my unfinished bathroom project below. I will say that I have started painting the cabinets and they're looking so much better, and I have 3 different paint colors on the walls right now. So, that is not ready to be shown.....but will be.
Ok, on to the art...I painted these canvases for Christmas gifts and had to show you how they turned out. The ones' pictured still have Mod Podge drying ...so, that's where the glossy white stuff comes into account. The crosses are just scrapbook paper that I cut out into a cross shape and the rest is acrylic paint. I then covered the entire canvas in Mod Podge to seal everything in.

This blue one was made for L's teacher and I think she really liked it. The project was simple, quick and didn't cost much (especially since I have loads of paint on hand). I bought the canvases when they were 50% off.

Hope you all have a lovely day!
If you would like for me to paint something for you, just give me a shout out and your email address.......I'd be more than happy to do so! :)

When the A.D.D. hits me like a truck, I re-decorate

2010-01-27T14:12:00.006-06:00

What started out as a complete and utter mess {because Mc took his dirty diaper off, himself} ended up with his mama taking down wallpaper border while he played in a sudsy bath {in the same room with me of course}. I just couldn't help it, the A.D.D. hit me and I was almost paralyzed into thinking ...."the wallpaper must come down" and so, it did. Do you do things like this? I can have laundry to do, dishes to put away, rooms to pick up, a child to sit and stare at while he bathes, but NO I had to pull down border because (well, I had to ...A.D.D. told me too) the decorating fairy was whipping me with her wand.

Yes, the room isn't spic and span..but the border is gondy. YAY!!

It's full of 1960's colorful tiles, most of the bathroom is covered in this peachy colored tile. Guess what though?!...I love it. (good thing right?)

I'm wanting to paint the walls, but I'm thinking I MUST go neutral so the room isn't too busy. I want it to be pleasing to the eye, ya know.

Check out the fun little built-in, where magazines and toilet paper can go...even a little picture frame. Love old homes, just love 'em! Character is what it's all about.

The bathroom isn't tiny, but not huge either. Any color ideas here? Throw them my way if so. I have some paints left over from my kitchen/living room/den and laundry redo's, but what do you think colorwise? Do tell. {no judging on my hand printy/dirty mirror}...thanks

Also, would like to paint the cabinets and mirror border...probably a creamy white, like my kitchen cabinets.

P.S. this is a small project, but don't tell my hubby...he'll have a heart attack just thinking of me and another project. shhhhhhh! thanks

B Girl turned 5

2010-01-26T22:29:00.008-06:00

B girl (in her 5 shirt) had such a nice time with her friends. {check out my picture wall, I have to say I love it} I also, love my sweet 5 year old...she ROCKS!!

Every household that has kids, should own at least 5 (really more) child-sized chairs...they're a must.

One of her friends gave her this sweet name plate, that we have already hung on her bedroom door. I love handmade gifts, so special!

I made a banner using her invitations, each fairy angel has a letter on them that spells out her name. I printed the letters on the computer, then tied them all together with girly ribbon.

The cake, oh the cake.....it isn't the most beautiful {large cupcake cake}, but boy was it heavenly to eat. Moist, yummy goodness !!

Oh, cake.....I loved you much and you didn't last long.

Things sure got quiet when everyone left. Note: the little guy on the couch is NOT human.

I love this wall, it's happy to me......I really like mixing old with new and nature inspired items are shown throughout my home. {paint color on this wall is Ivoire from Sherwin Williams, GREAT neutral}

Confused?!? Me too, I just got a little side tracked and had to talk a little bit about decor. I just cannot help it.

Cleaning the House or Working Out

2010-01-14T09:19:00.002-06:00

I would normally be at the 'Y' right now working my tail off ........

but, instead I'm devoting my day to doing this. When I have a chaotic home, I have a really hard time walking out the door and leaving the mess. So, today I'm conquering the mess and at the end of the day I'll be happy mama!! HOPEFULLY, I'll be able to workout because I need/want to...it makes me feel better and more in control. For now, the mop/vacuum/ and garage mess will be my "work out". Ya hoo!!

Guess what friends?! If mama's house is nice and clean, then I can take more pictures of my home to show you. Ah, yea dog!

Feeling Lost in the blogging world

2010-01-13T08:50:00.003-06:00

Hello friends! I know I know, I've been gone for a little while and I'm sorry for that. The holidays were all about family and traveling. The kids and I spent some time in my home town for almost a week while Jeff was in Dallas for the Cotton Bowl. L and I drove to Dallas and spent some time with him there and went to the big OSU and Ole Miss game......we had a blast, but OSU unfortunately did not win. (The younger kids stayed with my parents in A town.)
The kids started back to school and they had to let school out early this past Thursday due to a stomach virus and cancelled school on Friday as well. Half of the entire school system was sick and there are still people coming down with the illness......ucky. We have had the virus in our house since last week...almost a week of someone in our family sicky icky. I think (crossing our fingers) that it's over and healthy times are here.
I left you guys hanging in the last post with me unable to find my camera, it HAS been found and I'll be showing you more of the updated house (with befores and afters) soon. Sorry for leaving you all hanging and I'm also pretty sad that I've lost some followers. I guess that's how it goes though.
Hope you're all doing wonderfully and I cannot wait to come see how you all are doing and what projects you're coming up with. As of recent, my projects have been pretty basic......catching up on laundry, rearranging the boys room, and keeping up with day to day chores. I've GOT to get a hold of B girl's room before it gets completely out of control, it is quite a mess.
Please leave me a comment and let me know how YOU are, I'd love to hear from you.
Love much,

No Lies

2009-12-10T20:47:00.003-06:00

I told you that I'd take pictures of the house after or during the party I hosted last night......well, I didn't lie. {promise} I just have a really BIG issue, I cannot find my beloved camera. I'm looking high and low for it believe me. The house still looks pretty darn good (if I do say so myself).......so no worries my friends, the camera will be found and pictures WILL be taken. You mark my lovely words.

Fa La La La...Fa - Reezing

2009-12-09T08:53:00.002-06:00

Is it ok that I'm too cold to write 'real' posts? It's just simply too cold to think right now. I'm busy today trying to get my house ready for a little Scentsy party I'm having this evening, so I will be posting about that either tonight or tomorrow. The house is coming along quite nicely, I have a little 'tweaking' around here and finishing this and that...but at least the BIG projects (painting and flooring) are DONE. Yippee Skippee!! Love ya'll and please....STAY WARM.

Thankful

2009-11-25T16:12:00.005-06:00

{Logan}: Seriously, boy....you rock my world!!!!!!

{McQuinn}: Little Man, you're as sweet as pumpkin pie.

{Hilarious kids}

Like mother, like daughter.

{Bentley}: Your precious heart is shown by all who know you.

JEFF

You cook with our babies. You keep me grounded. You keep me on my toes. You surprise me.

You love me and our children. You keep us safe. You make us laugh.

Thank you sweet husband, for without thee...we wouldn't have three. I love you and Happy Thanksgiving!
Lovingly, Katy

Want to come see?...Kitchen and Den (Before's and After's)

2009-11-22T21:26:00.009-06:00

{I've linked up at Between Naps on the Porch, for Metamorphasis Monday}

Precious darling little child (he was one here)...but I'm showing you the wall behind him. Dark, dreary (nice wood paneling, not the cheap stuff..but too dark), the only 'before' picture I could find for now.

AFTER: Painted and I've already started hanging things on the wall and I'm loving it so far.

After: Bright white (creamy white)...cheery, prettier!!! Not all the way finished, but pretty much. New flooring (ceramic tile), painted cabinets and walls, new knobs...new me.

Before: Wow...yucky. The CARPET HAD to GO!!!!!!!...Orange cabinets HAD TO GO!!!

Hello Pretty Girl! (Bar stools are off with my painter getting painted a nice shiny black coat.)

EYES ARE BLEEDING........

Ok, much better.

Friends, there is still quite a bit for me to work on but I just couldn't keep you hanging any longer. You'll still have MUCH more to look at ....so, stay tuned for more greatness.

Over the Top

2009-11-22T11:12:00.005-06:00

I received this award from the lovely Deanna from the Well Groomed Hippie. Woo Hoo, thank you so much Deanna! Fun times!!

So, I'm suppose to answer all of the questions with a one word answer and then I'll pass it on to someone else.

1. Copy and paste this quiz…

2. Change the answers, ONE word only!!

1-Your cell phone? Blackberry

2- Your hair? long

3-Your mother? busy

4-Your father? outdoorsman

5-Your favorite food? bacon

6-Your favorite drink? coke

7-Your dream last night? odd

8-Your dream/goal? debt-free

9-What room are you in? den

10-Your hobby? creating

11-Your fear? loss

12-Where do you want to be in 6 years? here

13-Where were you last night? home

14-Something that you aren’t? athletic

15-Muffin? love

16-Wish list item? help

17-Where did you grow up? Ada

18-Last thing you did? clean

19-What are you wearing? p.j.'s

20-Your TV? distracting

21-Your pets? 5

22-Friends? many

23- Your life? busy

24-Your mood? anxious

25-Missing someone? always

26-Vehicle? Sienna

27-Something you aren’t wearing? makeup

28-Your favorite store? hobby (lobby)...suppose to be one word, but how do ya do that?

29-Favorite color? blue

30-When was the last time you laughed? last (night)

32-Your best friend? mom and sister (will not pick between them, just won't do it)

33-One place you go to over and over? sonic

34-One person who emails you regularly? (don't really email much anymore)

35-Favorite place to eat? Pete's (Place)

I would love for my sis (Johnna) to complete the quiz over at her blog Where The Green Grass Grows.

{Let's Play a little Game}...this is fun.....for all of my fun fun blog reading friends.

2009-11-19T23:06:00.004-06:00

Let me preface this post by saying that I REALLY REALLY tried to just copy/save the picture "as is", but it just wouldn't happen. Now, here's the game that you'll play with me.
1. go here to Urban Outfitters
www.urbanoutfitters.com check out the gal to the right upper corner wearing the sweater with the mittens on the front (chest area).
...............OK, OMG did you do it??????????

2. Now we'll discuss.
First, I'll discuss what I think about it, then you can leave me a comment and you can tell me what you think. I'm just flabbergasted...........
Where in the H.E.(double hockey sticks) would you wear this sweater??
-to meet your boyfriends parents?
-to teach in?
-parent/teacher conferences?
-a Christmas program at the Elementary school?
-the bar?
COME on, I'm sorry .........but this looks like you've been molested by Santa Claus. Am I right or just being conservative? Please, go take a look and throw a comment at me..........if you think it's a great sweater.......tell me. Be honest.
Now, I could totally see wearing this to a Dirty Santa party.......IF it were only like...um, $10.00.....but it's NOT.

OPEn for conversation...........

Cat Closet (a room of their own)

2009-11-17T15:03:00.004-06:00

Molly and Annie are peas in a pod, they love each other soooo much.

I made a "Cat Closet" for them, a room of their own. I was tired (sick and tired) of having the litter box out in the open and their food and bowls as well. I took everything out of the former coat closet and the Cat Closet it became. The litter box, food bowls now have a place of their own and we don't have to look at the litter box anymore. (thank the Lord). I had Jeff take the door off and he hung a window treatment in its place. I love that the cats can go in and out and the door isn't in the way anymore.

I think the drape is much more pleasing to the eye than a door anyway...cute and clever concealment.

Decorating Thankfully

2009-11-16T15:13:00.002-06:00

The house is not complete, but it's almost there. I just thought I'd show you a sneak peak of the dining area and how I decorated my $15.00 console table. I love the way it turned out and it's so nice to be able to have a few Thanksgiving decorations out amongst some (partial) chaos. I decorated "Thankfully", it's nice to see something pretty around here.

See my fun tree? ...of course you see it. I bought that little friend today for $11.00 at Lowe's, it's rosemary and it smells delightful. Go grab some while they have them, you'll thank me later. (what a nice gift for someone, eh?)

A better view of the console, what a great find (love garage sales). (that is my fat cat, Annie...she rocks the beer gut) :)

Have a WONDERFUL week friends. Tune in tomorrow for the "Cat Closet"....you'll like it, whether you like cats or not.

Where Have all My People Gone?

2009-11-13T14:01:00.002-06:00

House remodel and an update...
1. Floor guys........gone and floors are complete.
2. Painters....Den is complete, living room complete, kitchen........well, almost. My painters haven't been here in two days. Grrrrr....
Ready for my painters to be gone, so I can get on with my decorating and cleaning and making my house a home again. Is that too much to ask? Maybe?!?
I'm spent people.............I need my house back. Words of encouragement, much appreciated. Have a GREAT weekend my pretties.

Check out this Potty Training Device (for dogs)...Potty Rock

2009-11-11T00:00:00.003-06:00

Seriously, this is something that I would totally buy if I was potty training a puppy...I wonder if this company has a Potty Rock for toddlers?

Potty Rock™ Dog Training Device
With the Potty Rock™, you can train your dog to use only a specific area.
Keep your lawn spot-free by placing the Potty Rock Dog Training Device in an area of your choosing. The powerful built-in scent of this dog potty training rock will motivate your dog to come to that site for his needs. The Potty Rock Dog Traing Device works with both male and female dogs; scent will not wash away in the rain. Cement dog potty training rock is reusable and can be stored in a plastic bag.
Benefits of the Potty Rock Dog Training Device:
The dog potty training rock has a strong scent which draws your dog to it
The dog potty training rock is non-toxic and effective
The Potty Rock Dog Training Device is ideal for puppies as well as older dogs
Tell a friend about Potty Rock™ Dog Training Device
var initializeContinuityMethod = "";
Item#
Potty Rock™ Dog Training Device
Qty
Price

359259
Potty Rock™ Dog Training Device
$14.99

We Have a Winner!!

2009-11-06T20:05:00.002-06:00

And the Winner of the Scentsy Warmer and Scent of her choice is commenter #7.........AMANDA!!! Amanda, email me so I can get your mailing address. Thanks and Congratulations, Katy

kbaker@ctrail.net
Amanda said...
I would love one! What a cute idea!

Fun with Home Improvements (Episode #7...or whatever)

2009-11-05T23:22:00.003-06:00

Hi Friends, Well......I'm not exactly sure WHAT day this is of "Fun with Home Improvement", but just thought I'd show you a photo of the cabinets with primer on them. The upper cabinets are primed as you can see and the lower half is not, but as of right now both have been primed, deglossed, sanded, primed (yes, again) and will be painted soon. Cannot wait of course to show the kitchen in all of her glory and beauty.

The bulletin board shown has been in the laundry room for about a year now, it wasn't really "used"...so, I made it into something useful. The bulletin board is now a great place for the kids notes, schedules and art work and I had the tile guy put the hooks on the wall for me so the kids would have a place for their backpacks. I love the way it turned out and their backpacks now have a happy home, no more searching for backpacks...yippee!!

The kids wanted me to take a pic. of them next to their new "kid station".....they had been playing dress up (if you cannot tell..ha ha)...poor B girl was NOT happy with me for some reason.

Don't forget to enter yourself in my GIVEAWAY if you have not done so...it ends tomorrow the 6th.

I almost forgot.......tell me what you think. I am REALLY really loving the way my kitchen (and the rest of the house) is coming together, but am toying with the idea of new countertops.

*I've priced granite slabs and granite tiles

*I've priced quartz, Corian and the like

*I've priced Formica laminate

and subway tiles for backsplash.......and other options for backsplash.

I'm thinking that I need/should go dark on the countertop since my cabinets will be white/cream. Tell me what you think, give me ideas......tell me what you LOVE or Hate.

Oh, yea.......sinks........I am loving the look of the granite composition sinks. Anyone have one? Love it, hate it?

A Giveaway with a Deadline

2009-11-02T23:45:00.002-06:00

Want to be a WINNER?

I did a giveaway......SEVERAL weeks, maybe months ago, and I never even said who the winner was or even gave a deadline. So sad, but it happened and I'm hanging my head in shame.

All you need to do is simply leave me a comment and I'll enter you. If you don't have a website or blog, just simply leave me your email addy.

I'm giving......YOU, the Winner....a FREE warmer (of your choosing) and 1 scent bar (of your choosing). {$35.00 value}

If you don't feel like keeping it for yourself, then give your prize as a gift....it's JUST that simple.

The DEADLINE: Friday, Nov. 6th {promise that I will announce a winner}

P.S. It'd be awesome and so nice of you if you'd tell ALL of your friends about the giveaway, they'd probably THANk you for it!!!!

Pretty Cute Things

2009-10-21T17:52:00.006-05:00

{not my kitchen, but I love this look...photo credit unknown}
My kitchen walls are now painted green, Ancestral Gold (Sherwin Williams) a very light creamy green. The house is beginning to come together, I just needed a little break from showing you all of the progression pictures...needed some pretty things to look at, ya know.

{Pottery Barn: Clearance items}

{P. Barn items: clearance of course}

I love the solid colored pillows and the edging on them. These would look fabulous on my slip covered sofas.

{P. Barn again}

I think these zebra cushions would give some pizazz to my dining chairs.

{P. Barn}

Like this red distressed key sign, if I needed anything else on my walls I would seriously consider buying this. Right now my mantra is "GETTING RID of ALL this JUNK in my HOME" and buying more more more is just not in the plan...(even IF it's really inexpensvie). Get it, Got it, Good?!

Off to get the crew ready for church, even though little sis wants to watch Mama Mia right now.

Home Improvement {Episode #6}

2009-10-19T15:46:00.005-05:00

My painting ladies {they're awesome} are taking wallpaper down in the formal living room, CANNOT wait to see what the room looks like when it's all said and done. Now, all I have to do is pick a paint color for this room. {that should be easy right?!?} I'm going for the light, airy, fresh look in my living room, but something that will coordinate with my den and kitchen as well.

The den is DONE!!!!!!!!!! I really love the paint and it looks SO much better than it did. {the deer is going away, so say goodbye...sorry honey, it's gone even though you don't know this yet} The small sofa you see over there, the one that is all "santa fe-ish".....GOODBYE, you'll have a nice fresh, new slipcover placed upon thee. Oh, the ideas that I'll be doing in here to freshen this place up. The carpet in here will be leaving as well.......WOO HOO!!!!!! Can anyone say, "area rugs" with me? Good Job!

I'm hanging in there folks....hanging in there. This is a process, but it needed to be done. Really ready to show you guys my "AFTER" photos, it will be a photo frenzy. Not just one room, but 4!

I have a sweet sweet blogging friend that is helping me out in the kitchen designing department...paint colors and such. *sigh*

Send good vibes my way folks, I have a sick girl at home right now and wanting her to feel better.....so, send those vitamin C covered vibes my way. Thanks.

Thanks Dee

2009-10-14T23:13:00.003-05:00

Thank you so much Tea with Dee for the Kreativ Blogger award.

Home Improvement {Episode #5}: Design Dilema's and Inspiration Kitchens

2009-10-13T08:59:00.005-05:00

I WOULD REALLY LIKE SOME FREE ADVICE HERE.......HELP ME WITH SOME PAINTING DECISIONS IN MY KITCHEN AND DINING ROOM. THANKS.
This is an old picture (from B girls 1st birthday party), but I wanted you to see the dining table and chairs. They're the same color as ALL of the wood in the kitchen and dining area. I'm wanting to paint the table and chairs (probably black or white) to lighten things up a bit.

The above photo is full of inspiration (unknown source unfortunately). I would love the look of white cabs in my kitchen, but don't have the energy to paint right now. I'm also afraid of painting them in fear that they'll be scuffed and scratched by my sweet children. :(

Another unknown source, but I love the green in here and the table, I'd like to keep the top of my table brown like this with the rest painted. See the side table pictured?... That table reminds me of my cabinets and I'm thinking that I could possibly KEEP my orange-ish cabinets as is (with new knobs) b/c I like the look here. What do you think? I'm just absolutely NOT in the mood for painting cabinets right now since I have SO many projects going right now as it is.

Again, love the look of this (unknown) inspiration room. As you can see, I really like tans, greens and whites together.

I am VERY grateful for my large kitchen, just needing to update her a bit. Do you think I can update without painting all of this woodwork? Just so many built-ins. So much wood, so brown, so orange, so NOT cheerful. I'm cheerful and want to reflect that in my kitchen (since this is the room where I am all of the time).

The bar stools will be painted black or white...probably white to brighten the space.

Orangey cabinets with brass hardware that I am tired of, thinking a nice silver would like nice on them.

Lots of space folks. The wooden chair rail on the lower half of the walls will be white and I'd like to paint the walls a shade of green that will look nice with my existing cabs. Should I also paint the brick wall here? White? I like the brick as is, but would it look more updated and fresh w/ white paint?

LOOOOOVE this kitchen.......just more yummy inspiration to gander upon. (unknown source once again)

Like this kitchen as well. I told you that I'm wanting GREEN (not sure what green yet) in my kitchen, but I'll also have a few red accents in here as well. (little kid red vintage chairs)

Here is my plan:
1. Leave orangey cabs as is (b/c I'm worn out and don't want to paint), but change out hardware throughout the kitchen.

2. Paint bar stools, paint dining table and chairs, paint walls and chair rail on wall. Possibly paint brick in kitchen white.

Now, have I over loaded you? Hope not. Tell me what YOU think, throw your advice my way...write me a novel in your comments if you'd like. Thank you in advance. Now.....comment away.

Home Improvement {Episode #4}...help me answer a grout question.

2009-10-10T14:39:00.002-05:00

Tile is being laid....happy mama.

I've been going back and forth on painting the cabinets, I seriously cannot make up my mind. I'll post more pictures later when the room is finished and we can talk paint then or possibly sanding and staining. ...we'll talk. So what do you think so far?

I need a little help here:

Question: What color should I use as grout, is light or dark or in between better? Helpy.

Home Makeover {Episode #2 and #3}

2009-10-08T10:58:00.003-05:00

Mc walking on the floor after carpet was ripped up in dining room. Everything has been ripped up in kitchen, base boards are off as of last night.

This is what's happening right now, hardiebacker is going down.

Home Improvement With the Baker 5 {Episode #1}

2009-10-06T21:34:00.007-05:00

There's a fridge in my living room. There is furniture where it shouldn't be. There are partially primed walls.

There's a chaotic laundry room.

My sweet little china cabinet is not in her regular "home". {even the kitten is confused}

The dining room is quite bare, the walls have just been started, the floors are begging to be pulled up.
Everything is a bit out of whack right now and THIS is just the beginning, I'm already thinking ahead to what the "after" will look like.....instead, I need to just go through this chaos day by day.
Thank you for going through this journey of home improvement with me even if we're only on DAY #1.

What Have I Been up to: Priming, Cleaning, Painting

2009-10-05T12:51:00.004-05:00

My inspiration photo: Eddie Bauer, Valspar Paint (from Lowe's). I'll be painting the walls Bungalow Gold and the fireplace in my room will be white like this pic. shown (except I'm using a white I already have from Wal-Mart, called Autumn Breeze). I'm THRILLED that I'm going to have this "look" shown here, because as of right now......this is what I've got........

...partially primed walls. (see my wood ceiling beams, those will stay...not painting them, I like the rustic look)

........partially primed brick.

Here's how it's going down.

1. Walls and brick fireplace are going to hopefully be finished in two days. (crossing fingers)

2. The furniture in here was given to us a while back and will be covered with slipcovers (from JcPenney) in an off white creamy color.

What else am I doing that's keeping me from posting regularly.

1. Children underfoot. (this is a BIG one here)

2. Getting laundry out of the way.

3. Getting closets cleaned out and everything out of them.

4. Fridge, Washer and Dryer will be moved out in a couple of days........Why you ask?????

Answer: Here in a day or two we're having our entire house tiled (everywhere except bathrooms and bedrooms......the bathrooms are already tile).

I'll be (trying) to keep you in the know with pics and such!!!!!!!!!

I'm BEYOND the EXCITEMENT point, we've needed tile in our kitchen since we've lived here (5 years ago). You can drop water on the kitchen or dining carpet and it stains it, plus it's just rightdown GROSS.

(kitchen pics. to come soon)

Please check in us as we go through this "beautifying" process...........hopefully YOU guys can help me with some painting decisions.

What can you buy for $1.00?

2009-09-28T13:57:00.004-05:00

I BOUGHT SHOES......
Today was just a normal Wal-M*art day...UNTIL, a saleslady walked past me and let me know about a "wall of shoes" for $1.00. Poor big boy L only got one pair (the above shown for $1 Nerf brand). Below are all of B girl's....

These two black pair were NOT $1, but the ones on the left were $8 (Faded Glory) and the ones on the right were $4 (Danskin). (seriously)

These four little beauties were $1.00 each.......I couldn't believe it and they're all really cute. If sis doesn't like them for school, then she can play dress up with them. A girl can NEVER have too many shoes, right. (no duh)
I don't have any clue if all Wal-M*rt stores are having this dollar sale or not, but I would say that it's definitely worth checking out.

Candy Corn: {It's on My Mind}

2009-09-22T00:14:00.003-05:00

I love Candy Corn!!

I want some right now!!!

It ROCKS my world!!!!

Candy Corn makes me silly!!!!!

Candy Corn forces me to write to you all about it!!!!!!

Candy Corn: My Favorite.

Now, tell me..What is your favorite Halloween candy?

What do you do with candy corn?

Ever mixed Candy C. with peanuts? (It's AWESOME!)

{Being Grateful and Embarrassed in one day}

2009-09-16T22:11:00.003-05:00

My friends, I have lovely news. My friends, I have embarrassing news.

I HAVE literally been obsessed/consumed with trying to find the "perfect, great deal" of a stroller. WHY? There are several reasons that I could go on and on about, but I will not. I won't do this because I'm completely embarrassed by my behavior. Obsessing over something materialistic is NOT a good thing. THINGS don't matter. I wasted two precious days glancing at the internet every time I got a chance, when I could have been doing other things......chores in my home, making an art project with my two year old.....whatever.
Please, don't waste your thoughts on "things"..they don't matter, they don't make us better people, they don't bring us lifelong happiness.

My lovely news is this, I called two friends today. I asked the first friend to be on the lookout for me a used stroller to purchase (she owns a Stroller Fit franchise), I then called another friend and asked her if she possibly had an old jogging stroller (she has four kids and loves working out) AND SHE DID!!!!! Woo Hoo, best part is........she GAVE it to me and it was FREE and it works just fine and dandy (it sort of pulls to the left, but that's beside the point..he he).

The stroller is "shabby chic", and I appreciate it very much. I will use my "well-loved" stroller and if a great deal comes along that I just can't pass up, I will get a new one. End of story. No more obsessing though. Until then, we will take our family walks/runs/bike rides and enjoy every second of it.
What is it that you tend to obsess over? Is it consuming your days and your thoughts?

Riches are meaningless

1Timothy 6:7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.

Grace be with you,

Obsession and a date

2009-09-15T14:27:00.005-05:00

Two things:

I have an obsession recently with Ebay........I CANNOT stop looking at Bob strollers. I WILL buy one OH SO VERY SOON, but I want a good deal on a slightly used or new Bob. (don't we all want good deals) IF you have any ideas or would like to sell me your Bob, let me know Joe. (*thanks*)

I have a GIVEAWAY (from two posts ago) from Scentsy for $20.00 credit in my store, so take advantage and leave me a comment. The deadline is: October 15th!!! Don't miss out.

Today is....

2009-09-09T12:23:00.002-05:00

I'm sure you all know, but today is 09-09-09.
Crazy isn't it!
Have a lovely day.

No. 200 {Giveaway}

2009-09-01T09:40:00.006-05:00

This is my 200th post!!!!!!!! ......and I'm doing a little giveaway for YOU!

You have *3* chances to win!

Rules for the giveaway: *It's simple, leave me a comment telling me what your FAVORITE fall scent is (it doesn't have to have anything to do with Scentsy scents) and I'll enter you ONE time.
*If you would like to post about my giveaway, then leave me another comment telling me and I'll enter you TWICE.
*Leave me a third comment telling me that you are already a follower or a NEW follower and I'll enter you a third time.
If you'd like to "window shop", then head over to my Scentsy site.
THE WINNER WILL RECEIVE a $20.00 credit to shop on my site!
Leave me your email addy, so that I can contact you if you are the winner.

Post 199

2009-08-20T09:36:00.002-05:00

I'm almost to post 200, be checking back with me and I might even do a little giveaway to honor my blog.
I cannot believe how busy I've been, EVEN with the older two kids in school (all day). Mc baby man keeps me on my toes at all times, the laundry is calling my name and so are my unfinished walls. I will say though, I DID get everything taken off of the walls in my den and am hoping to get it finished soon so you can see what I've done.
So, tell me...What's going on in your lives? Has everyone been crazy busy like me? I hope to get into the groove of the school year and get caught up on my blog and my blog reading. Hope you're having a loveRly day!

Searching for Inspiration and Coming to Conclusions

2009-08-08T21:27:00.004-05:00

Searching for inspirational photographs of what I'd like my home to look like is something that I thoroughly enjoy doing, but tonight it HIT me.......like an absolute ton of bricks. {to be continued at the end of this post}Inspiration: I love the silverware art on the wall here in this dining room. The burlap cushion on the bench is fab. along with the burlap table runner. The centerpieces on the table are simple and pretty. (all photos shown can be seen at www.wisteria.com)

What I have at home: I recently bought large (actually gigantic) wooden silverware at an estate sale several weeks ago in hopes that I would paint them and proudly display them in my dining area. I have centerpieces that I could throw together for my dining table, instead I have laundry sitting on my dining table (ugh~). Could I make this table runner.......abSOlutely! Have I, abSOlutely NOT. (ugh~)

Inspiration: A vintage angel plaque.

What I have: Vintage looking angel wings in the shape of a heart that reminds me of this piece. (would love to have this plaque to go with my wings)

Inspiration: This console table needs to live in my dining room.
What I have: ......ummmmmm, well I'm looking for one. A really inexpensive one, like the one my sister has that she (actually me) found for $30.00.

Inspiration: Another darling console that would love to be friends with my dining room wall.

What I have that could be used in place of this: I'm sure I could find something around here.

I promise there is a point here people and it is this...

I KNOW what I want my house to look like, I KNOW what my style is (for the most part)....why do I spend all of this time searching for inspirational pieces or photos when I already have most of the inspirational pieces on hand? I don't need to buy anything else right now, I have everything I need. {I honestly think I could open my own little store in my basement with all of the things I have.}

I have TOO many unfinished products in my home right now, from one end of my house to another and it's VERY overwhelming. My den is partially primed, I have the primer and paint on hand and I'm writing a post about it instead of getting busy with the darn project. I suppose I think that looking at inspirational photos will make me want to jump up and prime these walls that surround me. I know for a fact that, IF my walls were finished then I could actually finish this room and have it done in no time at all. So, I'm making a pact to myself this very instant to at least take everything off of the walls tonight...at least I would be accomplishing that, right?

My goal to myself: Finish what I've already started. (Period)

My new Mantra: Do ONE project at a time. (can I really stick to this?)

An Evening Out With the Camera

2009-07-31T22:28:00.004-05:00

The kids climbed up the air drill ladder and sat up there for daddy to take their picture {at the Tractor store, as we call it}.

I really like this picture of the three kids sitting on the hay bale with the elevators in the background.

Miss B with her mommy, she is such a fun little gal to take pictures with.

Mc loves horses, he couldn't stop looking at them; which made it tough to get him to look at the camera.

B girl is such a little mommy, she's always taking care of her little brother. L is such a great little guy to take pictures of...usually quite willing.

I cannot tell you how thankful I am to live in this small community. I don't think I actually realized how wonderful it was until L started school last year. Every evening we jump on the golf cart and head off for a "nature drive", the kids love it and so do Jeff and I. Going on nature drives has become quite the ritual for us. My parents did nature drives with my sister and I and we always loved it, but there's just something about doing this little adventure on a golf cart that makes you feel more like you're in it...not just observing, but really in it.

I challenge you this weekend {or whenever} to go on a nature drive, you'll thank me. Enjoy your weekend friends. Tell me in your comments what you love doing that involves being outdoors.

KITCHEN INSPIRATION AND A SMALL PROJECT

2009-07-27T15:08:00.005-05:00

Hello my loveRly friends!!! I love love this kitchen...the colors are magnificent and it reminds me of the layout of my my kitchen (well, sort of).
As some of you know my house has been quite the work in progress...no REAL renovations, just paint and flooring and some good clean fun!! BUT, doing this {good clean fun} takes time and time is not what I've got really. Most of my projects go down while kids are napping or gone with a friend an hour here or an hour there. I have gotten some priming done in our den and I simply cannot wait to show you before and after photos. SPEAKING OF DECORATING.......I have been helping my sister with decorating her DARLING little cottage and I cannot wait to show you those pictures either, I think you'll really like what we've done.
Long story short, I really like this kitchen above {have no idea whom to even give credit to for the photo}.

Project: I love chalkboard paint, it totally rocks my world! {in a good way}
I painted this little metal plate and placed it on the stand to make it a little more glamorous (because I'm nice that way). The plate was one of those Christmas platters you grab at the Dollar store for way cheapo to throw cookies on to hand out to friends and neighbors for some holiday spirit {hmmm, I think my ADD is kicking in and so are my run on sentences}.
Anyway, I painted this up real quick like before I hosted a Pampered Chef party...so people would think I was all cute and stuff. (It so worked because I got lots 'O compliments.)
Have a good day folks and don't forget that I really love ya!

Too Hot to Handle

2009-07-14T13:03:00.002-05:00

Fun in the Pool!!! Kids and I are headed to the pool in about two minutes. The heat is making this mama, well a bit on the tired and gripey side. {not fun}
So, off to the pool and then HOPEFULLY headed for naps when we get back home. Thankfully the pool is just around the corner for us. Have a GREAT day friends and STAY COOL!!

red white and blue

2009-07-10T10:29:00.005-05:00

I made B girl some ribbon flip flops to go with her festive dress (from Wal-Mart). Check out the cute little silver ornament that I put in the center of the ribbon.

I love that the dress looked like a handkerchief. The dress was a little big in the arms, so I pulled it together with leftover ribbon.

Cutesie Patootsie girly girl!!

We spent five days in A-town at my parents house. It POURED the evening of the 4th. My parents backyard is made to where the water forms a "stream" if too much water gets back there.

As you can see, there was a stream and the kids LOVED playing back there.

My 3 little trolls...

The day of the 4th, we headed to the park and rode the Merry-go-round and the train.

Ummmmmmm, love that snow cone...little man Mc.

Aunt Sissy, L, B girl and little man Mc on the train.

Me, B, Sissy, L and Mc in the front.......we were on our way to the park at this point, all duded up in our RED, White and BLUE!!!

Cute little sign: {Keep Quiet or Babysit}

2009-07-07T11:46:00.006-05:00

I found the cutest little sign (in my hometown) over the past weekend that I just couldn't pass up. I think it's quite funny.

The fun metal stand is also a new purchase (at 40% off)....I love the idea of hanging seasonal decor here at the front door. Quick and easy to decorate and not to mention, darling! (Ignore the porch...it needs a little sweeping action.) The wreath was taken from my basement...it was sitting all lonely, so I pulled her out and she's in use again.

Hope you all had a GREAT 4th!!!

before and after photos

2009-06-25T22:23:00.007-05:00

Poor back patio was being a bit neglected by the Baker5.

Add an outdoor rug, new cushions on the chairs and LOTS o' flowers........

and you've got some homey, coziness going on.

Much much better, eh?

My {before} picture of the metal washtub......

My {after} pic. ..filled with flowers and little signs. "Eat, Drink and Be Merry."

{Before} pic...the lovely trashcan in all of its color. I actually liked the weathered blue and green, but unfortunately someone had spray painted the word trash on the back with bright orange spray paint. So, here's what I did......

Spray painted my little beauty black and stamped a fleur de lis on her. I love it!!

Love ya'll!!!!!!!!!

Chalkboard Paint Simplicity

2009-06-22T18:38:00.004-05:00

I grabbed a "B" at Wal-Mart today and thought it would be fun to paint it and put magnets on the back of it to stick on my estate sale find. I painted it with black chalkboard paint and put the magnets on the back.

{I took a picture of the "B" with the magnets on the back....for your viewing pleasure.}

I thought my "B" looked pretty darn cute here on my rusty estate sale find...I got a little wild with the chalkboard paint and painted the terracotta pots as well. As you can see, I even wrote on them....how precious, I'm just too cute for words. ........whatever, I'm tired........off to hit the hay!!!!!!! love you guys..

Estate Sale Finds--fun with metal

2009-06-21T15:15:00.004-05:00

I went to an Estate sale a couple of weekends ago and here are my finds that I could not resist.
*I loved this metal trashcan and just knew that I could beautify it with some good ol' rust resistant spray paint. I am almost finished with it and the pictures are soon to come. I painted it black and am hoping to find a decent sized fleur de lis stencil to put on the front. This will go next to our back door coming into the kitchen and we'll throw our cans in here for recycling.

My first thought was to clean this up and paint it, but the more I looked at it I have decided to leave it be. I like the idea of the "weathered" and "used" look that it has.

This will sit on our back patio and hold flowers on top and we'll put gardening tools and accessories on the shelves inside.

LOVE this metal washtub!!!!!!!! My plans for this........ A flower tub to hold soil and FLOWERS to help with the patio ambiance. {I could buy flowers every day, you can never have too many.}

I paid $5 for each item, what a bargain.

Have a lovely Father's Day my friends!!!

Dad, if you are reading........I love you and am so glad that you came this weekend, the kids had a blast!!! Will see you soon!!

Hi Friends

2009-06-19T15:49:00.004-05:00

{Picture above is from My Sweet Savannah because she is doing a fun giveaway.}

Hey there!!!!!!!!!!! My computer has been down for a bit and wouldn't let me post anything of recent. (sad times)
We've been crazy busy here at the Baker household for sure. T ball games, pool outings, buying tile, and beautifying our patio (pictures to come on that) have kept us on our toes.
Hope you are all doing well.
Projects to come.........rip up carpet, get tile laid, paint until my fingers are sore. Yippee, I love it!!
I also have some fun estate sale finds that are must see.

Want to enter a giveaway? Go to My Sweet Savannah and enter her giveaway, darling I tell ya.

Happy Birthday Sissy!

2009-06-03T08:27:00.002-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY LOVELY, WONDERFUL, FunNY, younger sister...!!!!
{Don't you love the backdrop and the matching outfits in this photo..priceless for sure.}

I hope you have a FANTASTIC day today, I wish I could be with you today to help you celebrate.

I wish ONLY the best for you my dear, thank you for being a great sister and darling Aunt Sissy to my babes. I love you, we ALL love you girl! G.I.R.L. (In a Jerry Seinfeld voice)

Sad things, Happy things, Dancing things, Graduating things and Camping things...(all in one post).

2009-05-28T07:37:00.009-05:00

B girl had her dance recital a week ago, they did their ballet dance to "Doe a Deer" from the Sound of Music. (it was PRECIOUS) Here is my little ballerina (in the middle) w/ her friends and a raisin in her mouth.

Daddy (wide eyed) with his sweet girlie!!

My silly little poser!

B girl, Mc and Mama......before the recital.

Mister Kindergarten Graduation man!!!! L is pictured with his Nini (Jeff's mama)...please pray for her, she has been in the hospital for four days now and we're hoping for a quick recovery.

Oh, my gosh.....this was such a sweet sweet day for him, mommy got a little teary, but all was well.

L man, B girl and Logie's best friend.

Logie and his mama Katy. I am so very very proud of my favorite six year old, I love ya big boy!!

The day after L's graduation our big girl Aggie was hit by a car, we honestly didn't think she'd make it.............BUT she DID and she's home now after seven days at the vet. He brain was swelling, her lungs were filled with fluid, her ear drum busted and the sweet girl is up and walking. A miracle indeed.

The day after her accident we left for our favorite church camp.......Oh, what fun we had!!!! This was our fourth year to go as a family. There are several other families that go as well and it's been fun getting to see the same people every year.

Mister "senior picture" poser.

B is always so outgoing and EVERYONE knows who she is. It's also quite fun to see what outfit she's going to pick out from day to day, I think she had on her brothers black rubber boots with this ensemble.

Am I the only normal person in this pic or what?!? What's up Aunt Sissy and Jeff?

The kids had a blast helping with the stepping stones we made.

Fun times!

Oh, for the love of her daddy!!!

My dad (the kids call him Bah), has enjoyed going with us the past 2 years....Mr. Mc loves his Bah.

Hope you are all having a great start to your summer. Our most recent plans right now are...

1. Build a fence in the backyard

2. Get new flooring put down

3. Paint our 2 living areas......hopefully get my cabinets painted in my kitchen. (crossing fingers)

So, now that school is out for my big boy.......I'm glad to be able to breathe a sigh of relief and take in the summer sun and start of some much needed home projects. Hugs to everyone and God Bless.

Busy B's

2009-05-12T15:07:00.002-05:00

Haven't posted in a bit and I just wanted to let you know that we're crazy busy folks around here. I'm ready to post about something inspiring or fun to look at or even a fun story.....but well, right now we're running around like chickens with our heads cut off (sad analogy but true).

Hope you are all doing wonderfully! Will post soon.

We're NOT going to bed, but we'll have some ice cream

2009-05-06T10:45:00.002-05:00

Mommy, I promise I'm not tired. See, just look at me...not tired one little bit.

Yay for daddy, I love it when he sets us up on his truck and gives us Sundae Cones...they ROCK!!! Thanks mom and dad, going to bed is for sissies.

{Burlap Table Runner Giveaway}

2009-05-05T08:51:00.004-05:00

Go here for this darling table runner giveaway. (Lovely Layla at the Lettered Cottage)

http://theletteredcottage.blogspot.com/2009/05/coastline-contest.html

Go here to visit, (the maker of the darling table runner)

Grace's Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7044601

An AWESOME stroller giveaway...I want it!!

2009-05-04T21:48:00.002-05:00

GO CHECK OUT THE TORO STROLLER AT STROLLER PATROLLER, THERE'S A GIVEAWAY!!

http://strollerpatroller.blogspot.com/2009/05/heres-how-you-can-win-toro-stroller.html

What? Another car wreck?.......

2009-05-03T17:11:00.004-05:00

My baby girl B was in a wreck with her Nini (Jeff's mom) in OKC yesterday evening. The two older kids had left with Nini and GrandPaul on Friday to spend the weekend with them. They were broadsided (driver's side) by a guy who ran a red light. When Jeff's sister called him and told us, we immediately started that way. Thankfully Nini and Bent are both ok, Nini was taken by ambulance to the hospital and scans showed no internal or external injury. Bent left the wreck with a cut on her neck from the seat belt (she was in a booster). Nini is currently at home with LOTS of bruises on her leg, but other than hurting is good. B on the other hand feels no pain.

My happy girl is fine, thank the GOOD Lord!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DECEMBER WRECK IN 2008

Remember this? ... My wreck with all three kids back in December. I still don't have my van back, but it should be with us soon. Again, thank the angels for watching over us then. (L was sitting right above where I was hit.)

MAY WRECK 2009
Here is Nini's car, see the side curtain airbags hanging down? B was sitting directly behind her in the back. The glass in Nini's window also broke, B's door was not damaged.

Oh guys, I'm just so thankful that all is well and all I have to say is........NO MORE CAR WRECKS. Please. NO thank you, no more for us.

MWP Giveaway.....

2009-05-01T15:16:00.003-05:00

My lovely "Big Sis" (sorority big) is giving this DARLING tote away for her 1 year Blogaversary!!! How fun is that........
If you go ..........PLEASE tell her that I sent you and she'll give each of us an extra entry...woo hoo friends.
{New Post Below...just written mind you.)

Click here or the word DARLING above to visit my girl Shannon.

What's been going on...and Happy May 1st

2009-05-01T12:23:00.005-05:00

After our little rainstorm this morning, Mc pulled out his trackers and had a hay day in the flowerbed.

Yep, that's right...no shoes. Shouldn't children be allowed to play in barefeet? I think so, I do NOT like wearing shoes really.

B girl LOVES the "new" cat that showed up at our house. We named him, Bruce ( he he ) and he adopted US.

L had fun a couple of days ago playing on the "Grass Rig" that daddy brought home. (FYI: A grass rig is a Firetruck/flatbed pickup that the fire fighters use in fields or pastures.)

Oh, lovely day to ya Mister Man.

Dressed up (as usual)......

It's been a hectic week, this time of the year seems to be SO busy doesn't it. So, today (when L gets out of school) L and B girl will be heading south to OKC with their Nini and Paul. Jeff, Mc and I will have a weekend to ourselves and BOY do we have a fun filled weekend of LAUNDRY, CLEANING and RELAXING!!!!!!!! I've already started my cleaning frenzy this morning......well, after our little thunderstorm consisting of semi-large hail, it was a pretty quick one. (thank goodness)

Hope you all have a lovely weekend. Love ya!!

Tornado Weekend

2009-04-27T21:21:00.002-05:00

We had an EF 3 tornado come through our small town this past weekend, actually 2 tornadoes. The kids and I and several friends went to our basement with lots of pillows and blankets. We also had our 3 dogs and a friends dog; which so happened to be "in heat".....so, Cowboy (our smallest dog) was "on point" the ENTIRE time we were down there so we had to keep the two away from each other. NICE. We were out of power for almost 24 hours. Uck.
Anyway, all is well now but if you'd like to take a look at the video of the damage, it is here. Jeff is a volunteer firemen (and storm watcher/chaser) and actually in the video, but you cannot see his face.

Mc was 20 months old yesterday

2009-04-24T09:26:00.003-05:00

My little man turned 20 months old yesterday...only 4 more months and he'll be the BIG 2, cannot believe it. He is the most quiet child that I have EVER been around, he only talks when he wants to, he never talks or makes a noise in crowds. Mc is a complete cuddle monster and I love it! Happy 20 months sweet baby...Mommy, Daddy, L, and B girl LOVE you so much!!

Note: He is NOT quiet at home!!

Pretend Party at My Place {EVERYONE IS INVITED}

2009-04-21T21:27:00.006-05:00

{Picture Above: Cottage Living}
Girls, this is where our party will begin...this pretty PRETEND Patio OF mine(I have a patio, but this one is prettier). You ARE all invited, each and EVERY one of you is invited!! Feel free to dress any way that you feel comfortable. Cute new jeans and top (yep), cute new black dress (yep), old pair of pajamas (yes mam), tee shirt and sweatpants, tee shirt and yoga pants..........WHATEVER is lovely, just come to my party.

We will have pizza..........

You will have loads of fun with ME, well because I'm just FUN!

We'll have MORE food........

......and I'll make us cute drinks.

Girls, I honestly would love to have you over for a girls night in where we could just be ourselves and eat, drink, laugh, and chat. I'm in need of this and I think it would be WAY fun. Don't you? I want an evening where everyone feels welcome and most importantly, comfortable to be themselves. Ya know what I mean? Are you ever around certain people that literally make you NOT be yourself? I cannot stand that feeling. I go into quiet mode when I'm uncomfortable and I'm NOT a quiet person normally.

So, anything you'd like to do at my Pretend Party? Anyone you'd like to bring? Let me know, I'll see what I can do.

HEY GIRLS: Ever NOT been invited to a party that your "Friends" were giving? Just curious....hmmmm. .....................possibly to be CONTINUED.

Love y'all and be GOOD, Today's Lesson....if you can't be a GOOD friend....be a GREAT one!!

{30 Minutes to a Prettier Front Door}

2009-04-17T09:04:00.002-05:00

Wish I had taken a full length picture of the door before...but I think you get the picture. The original blah blah brown door needed some help. Pretty door decor on the blah brown didn't have much of an impact.

Thirty minutes later...........I've got a pretty BLACK front door (I used a black Valspar paint from Lowe's...Satin finish.) that I am L.O.V.I.N.G. now. The cute heart on the front door now has a background that it can be proud of. :)

I did NOT remove the hardware from the door, well I tried but it's an OLD door and there weren't any screws to be removed. I just used my mad painting skills and carefully painted around the grooves and crevices. (I'm so cool, I know.)

Have a loveRly day my friends! Hey, go paint your door. DON'T FORGET TO ENTER IN MY SISTER'S CONTEST...IT'S OVER TODAY AT 5:00 CENTRAL TIME.

Heavens to Bootsy

2009-04-16T08:55:00.006-05:00

Mc: Is in to everything right now, I spend over half of my day cleaning up his messes or keeping him out of a toilet or a dog bowl.

B Girl: Spend most of my day asking her to use her head, she makes a LOT of silly decisions that make my head spin.

L: He is the one that makes me feel guilty a lot of the time.... "Mom, what's wrong with YOU?"

"I wish I got to play with my friends more." "I never get to watch t.v., you NEVER let me do fun things."

DISCLAIMER: THE ABOVE THINGS MENTIONED ARE NOT MEANT TO SOUND LIKE NEGATIVE MOMMY TALK, THIS IS JUST THE TRUTH BECAUSE WE ALL HAVE OUR FAULTS DON'T WE. I LOVE THESE KIDS TREMENDOUSLY, THEY ARE MY LIFE AND MY SOUL............THIS MAMA JUST NEEDS TO LET IT ALL OUT. oK, thanks

It all started TUESDAY I will call it "Mommy cannot do anything right because she is a failure to society."

Spend a LONG time in Hell (Wal-M@rt) shopping...and my underwear is completely wrong for me, I pull and tug the entire time.
Go to pay for my shopping experience and my wallet is MIA. Get my wallet from the car, go to service desk to buy my basket full of items and my ATM card doesn't work...........I had forgotten to activate my new ATM card (nice). I pay with check.
Kids fall asleep on the way home, I put them to bed....B-girl wakes up throwing her arms and screaming (I try calling an Exorcist)...finally get her settled.
Several hours later...start dinner, my underwear are about to do my in.......I jerk sweatpants off, take panties off and throw them in TRASH. Prepared dinner Commando Style. (put sweatpants back on of course) I turn around and B was washing her hands in her chicken noodle soup and begins rubbing her legs with the broth.
Last night....prepare "Kid Friendly" meal for kids and myself (Jeff was away for business). Mc and L eat quite a bit, my dogs eat everything that gets dropped on the floor, B eats nothing and tells me that she just wants cookies. Nice.
Give kids a bath, more water is on the floor than in the tub (I put life jackets on everyone and we got out of there safely).
I take all 3 to the den, have a "Come to Jesus" meeting with them about being thankful for who and what they have and ask them to give mommy a break. Mc smiles at me and then sticks his tongue out at me. 2 older kids say ok, and tell me they love me.
Put everyone to bed. Mommy comes to the den, get on my knees to pray and Annie the cat runs full force at my head and rips half of my hair out. I lay there and cry and thank God for my many blessings. The puppy (Cowboy) comes over and bites the dog sh*t out of my arm.
Go to kitchen, shove a Tylenol PM in my mouth.

Thank you all for listening....needed to get that one out.

Today is MUCH better. Don't forget to visit miss jc for her giveaway..

Giveaway ....GO THERE Now...come on folks...it's EASY

2009-04-15T09:14:00.004-05:00

THIS IS A GIVEAWAY SO GO THERE AND COMMENT BECAUSE YOU KNOW YOU WANT ONE. IT'S FREE, YOU GET A WARMER, YOU RECEIVE THREE SCENT BARS, YOU CAN KEEP IT FOR YOURSELF, YOU CAN GIVE IT AS A GIFT..........WHATEVER SUITS YOUR FANCY.........BUT FOR THE LOVE OF MISS JC..........GO SIGN YOURSELF UP. DUH! {thank you folks}

p.s. you can choose your own warmer and scents........
P.S.S. Want to go window shop and figure out what you'd want if YOU are the winner? Go HERE.

What happens at Gammy and Ba's....Easter Style

2009-04-14T08:41:00.006-05:00

Easter time, lovely time. Aggie and Cowboy stalking a squirrel that was hanging out on the back fence...fun times y'all. They really wanted to eat him for dinner. Poor dogs.

Nurse Alli (one of my cousin's) digging in baby E's nose, how fun is that....she loves digging and poking (a girl after my own heart).

What?! Why didn't I hunt for eggs?

Yes, he's tinkling....oh yes he is. I just had to tell you that this little guy (Cowboy) hunted eggs as well. He would find one, grab it and run as fast as he could (all the adults would chase him and yell), then he'd dig a hole and hide the egg. Poor guy, he wanted to play too.

Mc did so well with the hunt, he found lots 'o eggs and had a blast.

Cute "tailed" boy.

L, as always loving every minute of life.

B girl, hunting eggs AND switching shoes as she goes...a girl can never be without enough shoes. Like totally duh!

Watching Gammy and the little doggies.

More hunting.

Unfortunately I didn't get to download ALL of the pictures that I wanted to show you....my computer didn't want to cooperate. Dang!

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter. ..........that's all I've got to say about that. (Forrest Gump)

Actually I have more to say but Mc is pouring cereal out on the floor and B needs to get dressed for dance class. Mama has lots of errands today, woo hoo........then T-Ball practice tonight. Fun stuff.

Miss JC is doing a giveaway!

2009-04-13T20:38:00.003-05:00

My sister is doing a giveaway...it is a Scentsy warmer and 3 Scentsy bars. Seriously, go enter yourself...I would if I was you. The more people that leave her a comment, the more things she'll give away. Go HERE to enter. Thanks peeps.

Wildfires in Oklahoma

2009-04-09T19:57:00.003-05:00

I got this picture from the internet http://www.newsok.com/ this picture was taken in a neighborhood in Midwest City. Over 100 homes have been destroyed (as of right now they are saying WAY over 100 destroyed).
As I made my 3 hour drive heading south to my hometown there were several roads, and highways that were closed due to the fires. 1-35 South was even closed and I ended up having to make a detour; which made my trip a bit longer. Jeff and B girl headed down to A-Town earlier that morning (w/ Aggie in tow) and the boys and I (and Cowboy and Samantha dogs) came as soon as L was out of school. What a trip it was in the EXTREME wind and very smoky skies, quite eery.
Hope you are all doing well. Please pray for the many many people whom have lost their homes in these fires.
Have a wonderful Easter weekend to all of you!!! Love you,

Ready for Easter

2009-04-06T11:57:00.002-05:00

My kids are SO ready for Easter, every time they hear an Easter commercial or something about the Easter Bunny...they get so excited. "Mom Mom, the Easter Bunny is hopping on over to Walgreens." in the picture {from left to right...oldest to youngest} My L, cousin J, My B, My baby M and cousin C...they had a blast getting together and having an egg hunt.

My B loves posing....do you see any hidden baby heads? (so cute!)

Boring Hallway Becomes MUCH more welcoming

2009-04-03T09:45:00.005-05:00

Before: Chair rail needed some paint.

Before: Blah blah boring WHITE on walls.

Before: Boring arrangement of pictures.....

AFTER: Chair rail painted white (Kilz Paint..Color: Autumn Breeze). Walls painted to warm up the space (Valspar Paint..Color: Bungalow Gold from the Eddie Bauer collection). Phrase on the wall ...Walligraphy..."It doesn't get much better than this!"

After: I added a potting chair that I painted black (spray paint...gloss). I made the wallpaper covered canvas that I already had. {Take a peek into my den...I've already started priming that brick fireplace. Wow, will that room be a time consuming project.}

After: I definitely need to pick up those toys underneath the entry table and redo the entire arrangement on the tabletop.

After: Closeup of the picture arrangement and wall phrase. I took all of the pictures out of the frames and spray painted every frame with a flat black. I think it all looks SO much better and more unified this way.

After: Oh, so much better....WARM and WELCOMING!!

More projects to come. Hopefully I can start on our den painting or the living room. We'll see which strikes first. I'm trying to get everything painted the way that I want it BEFORE the new flooring is put down. Hope you are having a FANTASTIC FRIDAY!

Tuesday: Family Night (BABY PIGGIES)

2009-03-31T13:41:00.009-05:00

All of the pictures were taken at diff. times throughout the month. Just thought I'd share several different things we've done.

Yep, that's us...we're that family that makes gingerbread cookies in March. The kids enjoyed it SOOOO much....{so did daddy}.

Rolling out the dough and eating along the way...fun times!!

We had the "blizzard" this month. The weathermen were calling for anywhere from 6-12 inches in our area, but we got 3-4 inches instead. (I was fine with that.) Unfortunately, we were without power for about an hour this past Friday AND for 6 hours on Saturday. The kids finally got to go outside and play and they had a blast!!

All bundled and ready for sledding behind the golf cart.

Jeff and I took the kids up the street to visit some newborn piglets........I almost had a nervous breakdown because of the CUTENESS. Seriously is this sweetheart not just the most darling thing EVER. {Want it in my lap right now.}

This was the runt, so tiny as you can see....little thing was only about a day old. Ummmmmm, slap my mama {not really mom} CUTE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Don't you want it? !? ?! I do.

Boy has today been a crazy one and I'm sorry that I'm just now getting this posted. For some of you that do not know, I have set aside one time a month to post about "Family Night" or Family Day, Weekend..., in honor of sweet Tuesday Whitt that passed away from cancer. I really wanted to honor her precious name by doing something with MY family. I think it is so very important to drop the phone, leave the computer, step away from the t.v. and really DO something with your family, it gives children a better sense of security. {Plus, it's just really fun to hang out with your mom and dad!}

I hope that you are all doing well. Please leave me a comment and let me know if you have a "Family" post. I don't have Mr. Linky set up, yet...ugh. So, sorry about that. We can find you through the comments though, ok. Thank you and love ya,

Don't forget to grab my {Family NIght} button and paste it on your blog if you'd like. :)

Please pray for baby Stellan......he needs our prayers desperately and so does his sweet mommy.

Please also, thank GOD for your many blessings.

Tomorrow

2009-03-30T15:01:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow is TUESDAY, March 31st. I'll be doing my Family Night post in honor of Tuesday Whitt. If you would like to join me (I'd love for you too) and let me know what you and your family have been doing.... tomorrow is the day! Thank you for your participation.

Blizzard Time In Oklahoma

2009-03-27T11:32:00.004-05:00

We are suppose to be getting a blizzard here in Oklahoma. The news is telling us that the northern part of Ok; which is where we live, is expected to get up to 6 - 12 in. of snow and possible snow drifts of up to 6 feet. This could get interesting for sure. My children are VERY excited at this point, in hopes that the sled will be coming out and our weekend will be filled with sledding, snow angels, and snowball fights. Me on the other hand.........I'm just hoping that I don't go stir crazy, the kids don't destroy the house, and our electricity stays ON. Don't get me wrong, I love a good snow.............but I also LOVE a warm house.
Our dogs are running through the house like they are in for the race of their lives. Samantha (the Sheppard) is laying down just watching the the other two go at it. Samantha and Aggie (the Great Dane) will do just fine in the snow, Cowboy (the Dachshund mix) on the other hand....I just hope he doesn't get lost in a snow drift. We don't want any frozen weenies around here.
You all have a nice weekend, hope it stays Springy for you all.......just think of us Okies and send us warm vibes. Thanks!!!

Potting Chair (not potty chair) and Entryway Progress

2009-03-26T08:59:00.008-05:00

Need your OPINION: Do you think I should take all of the pictures out of frames and turn them into black and white and paint all of the frames black (spray paint of course)? I will be getting some sort of vinyl lettering (a phrase or saying) to put on this wall and place the pictures around it. I thought the black frames would look nice w/ a black vinyl something up there.

Entry BEFORE paint

The chair rail will be painted a creamy white....toile wallpaper will really pop against the white. Hello wooden columns that I want to come down.

Ok, here is the POTTING CHAIR before. It has a hole in the seat for a large terracotta planter. It has been sitting on our back patio getting quite weathered.

Mama Katy (Aggie behind) with the Potting Chair. (Uh, oh the Camry is STILL here....still waiting for the Mama Van...should be done any day now.)

My 3rd project from yesterday. I had this canvas that L painted several years ago, it was in the bathroom for a while, I rested it and stuck it in my closet....I brought it out yesterday for a little makeover.

B helped me hold the canvas down while I covered it in leftover wallpaper. I folded and tucked the edges around the canvas and used a staple gun to keep it in place.

Entryway during the painting ....the kids played here while mama got her project on.

See my cute new door decor? Cute isn't it. (thanks mom) I want to paint this door BLACK! Awesome.

Oh for the love of paint, the walls were thanking me. Color: Bungalow Gold from the Eddie Bauer collection at Lowe's, Valspar Paint. The door bell thing will be taken off and painted black or possibly replaced....more realistically painted, cheaper option is always better in my mind.

Look at that potting chair now, I decided to let her live in the house to give my entry a nice piece of eye candy. I painted her with a black gloss spray paint.

Potting chair w/ original terracotta pot....I will paint it and stick a fern in it for some nice earthy-ness. Check out the toile covered canvas, it's not perfect....but it does look better than a blank wall. Right!?!

Canvas and Potting Chair....for the love of accessorizing (one of my many purposes in life).

3 things I did yesterday 1. Painted Chair 2. Painted entry and hall walls 3. covered a canvas

The real AFTER pictures will come as soon as the entire paint job is finished, BUT I just couldn't help but show you the DURING photos. Hope you enjoyed and maybe I helped w/ some inspiration for YOUR home.

What? ...Wednesday

2009-03-25T10:02:00.003-05:00

I want to know something about you.... WHAT is a fear of yours?

Here is one of my fears........
Someone standing near my bed staring at me. THAT scares me.
So, now it's your turn.

I've missed you and a tid bit about my housekeeper..

2009-03-23T08:32:00.004-05:00

Man, I feel like I've missed out on so much lately since I was gone all last week. Hope you are all doing wonderfully and I'll be coming to visit you at your blogs soon.........

Today, my best friend (my cleaning lady) is here. We are catching up on laundry and such, it is lovely. I love her and I love it when she is here...she loves our family and the kids LOVE her!!! I thought that I was going to have to let her go and I still might have to (I really should actually), but I just can't do it. I cannot say it, I get tears when I think about it...she's not JUST our cleaning lady, she has become my FRIEND!

Well, I'll be back to normal posting probably this evening, but for now I'm getting my house nice and tidy.

It's Friday the 13th...AND MY............

2009-03-13T09:03:00.005-05:00

Here are a few beauties that I WOULD wear today if I was a little girl....well, I would actually wear them now, but they are sized for toddlers and little girlies.

I would throw this pretty little cardigan on over a pretty little white or light blue cami.{crewcuts}

This, I would say is a PERFECT party girl pink skirt, don't you agree....should'nt EVERY girl on her birthday wear this?

And what a DARLING warmer (the black and white Boleyn) that is out right now for my Birthday month. ...of course it's 10% off with the 10% scent of the month. Seriously cute isn't it!! You SO know you want one, so go here www.scentsy.com/22701 .

And last but not least....precious birthday cake, perfect for a 33 year old Fun With the Baker5 Miss Katy!!! I'm not one to let others' know it's MY DAY, but for the past 2 years, I have cried on my birthday. Last year I sent out an email about birthday's...........Birthday's are SUCH a big deal for children, ya know. Well, when you are an adult sometimes you feel forgotten or left out or even let down. Yea, it's kinda sad..........so, I'm proud to say that it is my BIRTHDAY and I'm happy about it!!!!!!!!!! WOO HOO!!

I'm also happy to say that tomorrow night I get to go out with some of my old college friends/sorority sisters!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now this makes a mama smile, can't wait to see you Holly, Shannon, and Michelle. (of course, there will be other ladies joining..but these are the blogging ones)

Love y'all people! Have a loverly day ya hear!!!!!!!

Kathryn Ann Baker

8 lbs. 1 0z only 18 inches long....I was short and chubby.

Had pitch black hair, fell out 6 months later and turned white.

Born with a green bow in my hair (seriously..he he)

Tortilla Soup Thursday

2009-03-12T16:48:00.006-05:00

{Picture borrowed from the Net}

TORTILLA SOUP: {DON'T BE AFRAID OF THIS RECIPE, IT IS EASY}
1 4oz. can of green chilis
1 onion (chopped up)
2 garlic cloves (I used a couple of spoonfuls of garlic in a jar)
1/2 jalapeno (I used a whole one and took the seeds out and chopped it up)
2 TBS of olive oil
Saute above ingredients until onions are soft and look done.

In a large pot pour all of this in while you're above ingredients are cooking.
2 14oz. cans of diced tomatoes
1 TBS fresh cilantro (USE FRESH)
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 10oz. can tomato soup
2 cups of chicken (before I did anything I had 3 skinless chicken tenders baking in the oven)
1/2 tsp. sugar
1 14 oz. beef broth
1 14 oz. chicken broth
Side Note: I added corn to this, you could also add black beans if you fancy!

When top ingredients have cooked throw into pot of broth. Get your chicken out of the oven when it's done and pull it with a fork and cut into small pieces. Throw it in pot of soup.

Enjoy your soup topped with sour cream and/or sliced avocado. Yum-o-licious!! ...and shredded cheese.

Don't forget to throw some tortilla chips broken up into each person's bowl. Good times folks!!

Avocado Dip/Guacamole
Slice up several avocados...don't mush them up.
Slice and dice up some tomatoes.
Slice and dice up some onion.
Dash in some garlic salt.
Dash in some black pepper.
Throw in salt.
Squeeze lime all over it.
Mix together gently without mushing everything together.

DO NOT EVER PUT SOUR CREAM IN YOUR GUACAMOLE...IT'S JUST NOT RIGHT! I'M NOT SAYING I'VE NEVER DONE THIS B/C I USE TO, BUT YOU WILL NEVER GO BACK IF YOU EAT IT THIS WAY. OK, THANKS FOR SHOPPING!

P.S. Have a nice beer with this dinner and you will thank me. Maybe throw a little lime and salt on your cold glass and you'll be even happier. :)
Again: Thanks for shopping!

Few Words Wednesday

2009-03-10T22:29:00.003-05:00

My Sweet Sweet Daughter {Sort of looking like Sally Jesse Raphael}

Project Carpet Pull Pics.

2009-03-09T16:25:00.005-05:00

Oh, the small glimpse of Parquet flooring......love! The dogs wanted to be in on every aspect of the project. They love us!!!

BEFORE we ripped up the carpet. Oh, I cannot wait to gussy up the room with the new flooring.

I see window treatments in the near future.

Project kitchen will be underway...one of these fine days. We moved almost everything from the front living area to the kitchen...it was like a maze in there. (Mister ceiling fan, I'd like for you to go away and I'll replace you with a pretty/simple chandelier.)

Ooooo baby...nothing better than saying goodbye to carpet. You see, that is plywood subflooring and it will be covered with some really pretty Pergo (laminate flooring). There is Parquet wood flooring in the den, our plan is to sand it and stain it the same color as the laminate that we'll have in the rest of the house.

Trash bags full of carpet and padding and tack boards.

Ummmmm Yummy! Have I told you how much I do NOT like carpet? I don't, it's just not feasible with kids and animals. Ugggh.

Cannot wait to show you the NEW flooring and fun arrangements that I'll be doing.

Oh, man......almost forgot to tell you. This living room has really old wallpaper and I've already started tearing at it. I will paint it BEFORE (hopefully) the new floors are down. It will be so fresh and pretty, I might just have to throw a party.

Projects soon to come:

1. Redo Parquet in the den.
2. Take carpet up in dining room and kitchen (I know, carpet in the kitchen....we've lived with it for four years now....it is def. time to say GOODBYE.)

3. Take up carpet in laundry room.

4. Smile when it's all complete and give one another a high five!! :)

We're hoping (crossing our fingers) that we'll have enough flooring/money to go ahead and do B girl's room and a hallway. Have a loverly day my friendly folk.

Project Carpet Pull

2009-03-07T09:34:00.002-06:00

I've already taken my "before" picture of our living room. Jeff just took the kids to his parents, I've moved all small things from the room and when he gets home...Project Carpet Pulling is underway!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This will NOT be so much fun, but if you remember correctly...Miss Aggie (the Great Dane) had some "tummy trouble" on our carpet. Carpet is going away....good bye Baker household...hello Dumpster! Now, if we have enough time before we pick up the kids, then we'll have Project Carpet Pull in the Den as well.
*Thank goodness I've already taken my allergy pill.* Have a loverly day my friends. Love ya.

Holy Toledo!

2009-03-04T09:35:00.008-06:00

I'm so excited, check out all of these awards I received just yesterday!!! My friend at There's Something in the Glass awarded me the Sisterhood Award. Fun times.

Nominate at least 10 blogs (I'm doing 5) which show great Attitude and/or Gratitude!

The Sisterhood Award goes to:

1. Where the Green Grass Grows

2. Twice As Nice

3. My Rambling Thoughts

4. The Rambler

5. Mad About Matthews

Kacey at Chronicles of a Mommy gave me these last two awards. How fun are these girls, LOTS 'o fun that's how much!!

Thank you to both of you girls for thinking of me.

I'm passing these two loverly awards on to some fabulous ladies who really make a difference in the lives of others:

1. A House Full of Boys

2. Confessions from an Impulsive Addict

3. Tidbits from Liz

4. A Daily Dose of Davis

5. This Momma's Musings

Right Way: Link all of your nominees names to their blogs.

Wrong Way: Do NOT leave the links to your friends blogs, simply because you are too lazy to do so right now. Girl's I just cannot do it, my mind is tired and so are my fingers. I suck right now...sorry.

Are you kidding me? ...final rose (ha)

2009-03-03T08:35:00.005-06:00

(picture borrowed from the internet...Chicago Sun Times to be exact.)

Jason: I'm in love with you Melissa,(in his head) I can't stop thinking about Molly, I'm in love with two women.
Jason: Molly, can we see how things work out with us? Oh, let's kiss, I love you.
Jason: Chris (Harrison), Oh...I think I might be in love with you Chris. Oh, my gosh....I'm so confused!!!!! I think I'm in love with all three of you.
Jason: Oh no, I know this is cruel...but I might be in love with the limo driver too. So many options.

So, who IS he really in LOVE with? So awkward, yet I couldn't help but keep my eyes glued to the t.v. I will be watching again tonight....this is where it will be "Historical" (as Chris kept saying last night)....Jason will tell America that he's really in love with Chris or the limo driver or the camera crew....shoot maybe he'll pick out a lover from the audience.

Funny part last night: When Jason was telling Molly that he basically wants to try things out and she keeps looking around and kind of laughing/smiling. She looked at Chris several times...it was funny. Jeff and I couldn't stop laughing at her reaction.

Quiet Time

2009-03-02T09:39:00.004-06:00

I know that I am loved.

I know the Lord is good!

Sometimes we just a time of reflection. A time for quiet. A time to think. Amongst the chaos of our everyday lives, we need a time for ourselves. A time to remember who WE are. Ever feel so run down that you just simply don't want to get out of the house? Ever feel so bogged down with life that you just need to BE?

I posted these pictures in hopes that they would help calm my mind, help soothe my soul. I need some soul soothing, who doesn't.

I will go get dressed, get my kids to the car, go run errands.

Thank you Lord for my many blessings. Help me to find my calm. Help others that need their calm. In your name I pray, Amen.

May the Lord bless and keep you.

Think of Aggie Please

2009-02-27T16:03:00.005-06:00

She is at the vet, she has had some tummy trouble, she has had some {{trouble}} on our carpet. (NOT GOOD)....we need to rip up carpet (NOT GOOD). She needs to get better, we need new flooring. Please say a prayer that I can have patience. That's all. Thank you. Katy

{Sometimes we think with our hearts instead of our heads. Sometimes we should do both. }Author: Katy Baker

It has been lovely weather

2009-02-26T12:05:00.003-06:00

It has been absolutely beautiful weather here for the past 3 days, the wind is changing though and we're expected to get some coldness soon. Ugh. It has been really nice going outside to play, take the kids and dogs for walks and enjoy the sun. I've had the windows open in the house and I love the fresh air. Yum. Have a great rest of the week. Anyone have fun plans for the weekend?

Be great! We're off to nap.

Master Bedroom Finally Finished....

2009-02-25T11:02:00.008-06:00

This pic. was suppose to go at the end ....but oh well.

I had decided to paint the background of my built in vanity...this color is Bamboo.

The room started out white and went to a light blue that just didn't work for me.

More of the light blue that didn't work and pieces of furniture that didn't work where I had them.

Several colors on the wall....what shall I choose?

I went with Mercer Blue (Valspar Paint: Eddie Bauer). I found some window treatments at Ross that were inexpensive. I also found some nice rods and finials at Hobby Lobby that were also on sale. :)

I painted the background behind the built in shelves a chocolate brown color, the built in had doors on them and I removed them several months ago. I like the depth of the shelves w/ the dark color.

Next came tassels, I love tassels. I pulled the curtains together with a tassel for a more custom look. See the drawers in the built in vanity: I changed that color to Bungalow Gold (Valspar Paint: Eddie Bauer), this color looked much better with the curtain panels. The lamp on the bedside table was found in a hall closet, it needs some pretty books stuck underneath it for height.

Bedding was changed to the Boathouse Collection from Ralph Lauren, I waited forever for it to go on sale. I mix and match this comforter with some older Ralph floral sheets I have and some striped sheets and sometimes Ralph leopard. The green silky quilted shams and coverlet at the end of the bed help add a layered look (from Wal-Mart a couple of years ago).

Some to these pics. you have seen before, but I wanted to show you the befores and afters.

Have a lovely day friends!!

Coming up and hopefully I won't take too long to show you....

1. I'll show you what I did with the wooden star that I repainted.

2. I'm doing a makeover on a chair for my entry way.

Vote Heath

2009-02-24T08:44:00.003-06:00

My cousin Allison has her dog, Heath (a Doberman) in a contest. Please vote for him because if he wins, the money will go to the Great Plains Mastiff Rescue. Allison and her husband are foster parents for some of the dogs that come from this rescue agency. Thank you for your time and vote (if you'd like to do this, go over to the button in the right hand sidebar that says "Vote for Heath"). Thanks and have a lovely day!!

Mc...he's my baby man!

2009-02-23T14:04:00.004-06:00

This is my baby man, I love his legs!!! See the little guy hiding from Mc? ...that's Cowboy, he's Mc's little brother. Mc loves the life out of his little brother, he squeezes him, kicks, throws things at him and pesters him and it's all out of love or merely a good belly laugh. (Sidenote: We do NOT allow him to hit or squeeze Cowboy, it just happens sometimes.)

This is Mc with his "fake" smile, this is his naughty smile........this means, "get out of my way b/c I'm going to do something ornery" smile.

This is the "Preacher" hairdo... ya know, the slicked back look. (sidenote: I have nothing against slick haired preachers.)

This is my happy baby man, he makes me laugh and smile. He he he he ho ho!!!! (Hair is shorter :( )

Positive Note: Please everyone ............have a great day, praise the Lord for your day, smile at your kids, hug 'em! Smile, peace to the world and all of that jazz!

Negative Note: My lovely girl that does my hair, thought it'd be a great idea to cut 2 inches off of my hair. She got the better of me and I let her. I don't love it, I miss my longer hair....I sort of want to cry.

Positive Note: My hair grows quickly and this too shall pass.

More Positive Notes: I feel better and my family is on the mend. Yay for health!

I see ceiling fans

2009-02-20T09:48:00.002-06:00

I know I'm not losing my mind, but my vision...well, maybe.
B is still sick today with a high fever and all I can see are ceiling fans. This is really weird, my right eye has this really odd ceiling fan looking sensation and I've had it before and don't understand what causes it. I'm going to have to stop typing b/c my vision is so blurred...I need to go to the bank, but I don't really think I should drive. Huh, anyone ever had the "ceiling fan" issue? {Sorry if there are mistakes here, I just literally cannot see every word.}

Holy Moly....NOT Fun With the Baker 5

2009-02-18T10:07:00.005-06:00

{You see, things like this happen when mommy doesn't feel good....baby gets in the pantry, grabs can of icing and uses his hand as a shoveling device for scooping into his mouth.} Nice

At least the youngest two kids are not sick....but the rest of us are for sure! I haven't even had the want or the energy to post anything, I have seriously felt like taking myself to a hospital. My glands are currently SCREAMING at me in utter pain...I think I will continue on my regimen of Flu/Cold medicine and lots of water and vitamin C powder.

B and L are watching "Frosty The Snowman" on DVD right now, Mc is sleeping in his crib, Jeff is in our bedroom sleeping with the humidifier running. Doesn't this sound like fun? Well, no but it is life.

Here in a bit I'm starting at one end of the house and I'm going from room to room w/ my trusty bucket 'o cleaning supplies and I'll be on a mission to kill germs!! Yippee, fun for me.

I'm totally hoping to be back soon with some exciting things to blog about!

Love Potion Popcorn....duh, it's Good!!

2009-02-11T21:58:00.005-06:00

Only 2 ingredients for Love Potion Popcorn: Almond Bark or Wilton Candy Melts and Popcorn. I prefer to use Pop Secret (Homestyle), I think it tastes the best for this recipe.

L and B getting the decorations ready for his Valentine Box for school.

The finished V-Day box, they had so much fun making this.

The lovely, tasty, yummy Love Potion Popcorn!!!!!

Melt your Almond Bark or Wilton Candy Melts (using directions on either package, so easy). Pop your corn in the microwave, pour it into bowl and drizzle melted candy over popcorn and stir until evenly distributed. Ok, that's easy...huh!?! Yes. Easy!

I put about 5 scoops in cute little baggies and that is the treat I'll take for his class party.

More ideas: Pour sprinkles out onto the popcorn, use colored candy melts to match the holiday, orange for Halloween, red for Christmas or V-Day....you get the picture.

Name Ideas for your corn:

Valentine's Day: Love Potion Popcorn

Halloween: Spooky Corn (toss some candy corn in w/ it to give it color)

Christmas: Reindeer Popcorn, Snow Corn..........(My creative mind is WAY tired)....Jesus is the reason for the season popcorn. :)

Anyway, I'm going to bed folks....mama tired....mama got the brain pain.

{Painted Cabinets}

2009-02-11T12:18:00.003-06:00

Well, my pictures are a bit mixed up...wanted the before pics. first and after pics. last...but that's alright. This pic. is one taken still in progress.

I was sick of looking at the orange-ish cabinets, so I painted them. I also took all of the hardware off and spray painted them "hammered silver".

You can see in this pic. that the cabinets on the left are NOT painted yet...this was just so you could see the "makeover". Don't they look cleaner?...well, I think they do. I lined the white cabinets in black and white toile (just the bottoms of the shelves of course).

Painted, but not completely ready in this picture. They are completely finished now and look much happier and the hardware looks brand spankin new! Unfortunately my camera is not showing how much better they look, but in real life they do look much nicer.

I have so much more to post and I MUST show you how much better our master bedroom looks w/ before and after photos.

I don't know if you can tell in the last photo, but I put a glaze on the white paint to make them look a bit worn. I needed to do this b/c the counter top looked "dirty" against the plain white cabinets. I would like to paint the white walls in the bathroom, but I just don't know what color to use. I'm fresh out of ideas. Feel free to give me some color advice.

Would you leave the walls white or paint them?