Love & Twenty Toes

girls' room.

2012-02-05T14:40:00.000-05:00

I have been working on the girls' room this past couple weeks. I didn't have to do much luckily, we had painted it a very light lavender right before Josie was born & we got both of the girls new beds a few months ago.

I basically just rearranged, de-cluttered, & re-organized their room.. adding a few things here & there.

The new baby will be in our room the first couple months, (don't worry we will raise the crib mattress) then she will go in the room with her big sisters. Yes, they will be sharing for now !

I just wanted everything to look simple & sweet.

I made this bunting a while ago for this spot right above the crib :)

I love these canvas pictures, these are from Pottery Barn Kids from before I had Maddie, truth is I don't think I could get them off the walls without ruining the paint, so they will stay.

I wanted these beds for the big girls for so long, I had to wait months until IKEA got them back in stock. They extended into twin size beds, but for now they are perfect fit.

A cute little shelf for special gifts.

Below the shelf is a bench, packed with books for bedtime reading.

I love these little baskets for keeping things organized, so easy for the girls to grab their own headbands or socks from them.

I saw a image on Pinterest that had paper butterfly cut outs in a frame & had this idea...

I got a Martha Stewart butterfly punch-out & some pretty scrapbooking paper & viola !

Baby has a special spot in our bedroom waiting for her arrival...

We are patiently waiting for her..

Although I am hoping she comes this week, I only have 12 days until my due date..

& even that seems so soon !

xo.

pretty painters.

2012-01-28T21:24:00.000-05:00

Only a few weeks (or less hopefully) of just our little family of four...

I know we will be back to a 'normal' in no time with three girls, but for now, enjoying the ease of having just my "big girls"..

We went to a favorite spot to paint some pottery. It has been a little while since we went & this time we dragged Daddy along for the fun.

I was really surprised by their concentration this time..

I could even just sit back for a few moments & just watch them.

Maddie picked a horsey, named Horsey..

& Josie picked a kitty to paint for their room.

Even Daddy painted one :)

I think Josie used every paint brush in the cup..

Maddie could seriously sit for hours doing something like this.. painting, coloring, cutting & glueing.. she is my crafty girl..

...but this one got a little distracted after a little while & was jumping around entertaining the place..

We even went home with no paint on our clothes..

just a little on our hands & of course a speckle on Josie's cheek.

Can't wait to pick up their pieces next weekend !

xo.

turning four..

2012-01-20T22:57:00.001-05:00

well, you had to know I would do a birthday blog for Maddie turning four right?!

it seems like just yesterday I was holding my sweet new baby..

four years goes way too fast.

I love everything about her..

her big baby blues,

the little scar on her lip,

her upside down A's ..

she is a princess.

her laugh melts my heart.

she is the best thing that ever happened to me, she showed me a love beyond what I knew I was capable of.. I'm so proud she is mine.

I think four is going to be fun.

happy birthday Madeleine.

xo.

baby name & counting down.

2012-01-12T22:13:00.000-05:00

Countdown has begun...

5 weeks until my due date.

I am feeling very pregnant..

I keep thinking to myself, "how is my body going to be pregnant for 5 more weeks?!"

We have just started getting ready for baby..

folding some clothes, organizing bedrooms & making room for another little person !

I still have plenty to do to keep myself busy, including two little girls who definitely help with that !

I can't wait to meet Violet.

I am always wondering what she will look like.. if she will have any hair.. chubby cheeks..

sometimes it still seems so far away, but I know in no time we will be sitting here with a one month old.

Josie asks me everyday, "will baby Biolet be here soon?"

Maddie will talk into my belly button & sure enough always gets Violet to move around like that.

Besides meeting her myself, I'm most excited about her big sisters meeting her for the first time.

xo.

Christmas day fun.

2011-12-28T19:55:00.002-05:00

Christmas with family on Christmas Eve, I think Josie thought all of these were for her!

It took some explaining to the girls that they wouldn't really see Santa when he delivered the presents, and Josie was a little hesitant to get out of bed in the morning until she made sure that he wasn't still there.

What's better than messy hair and happy faces on Christmas morning?!

Of course pillow pets are always a hit around here..

all Josie really wanted for Christmas was a "potato head"..
Santa delivered :)

we spent Christmas day with my husbands family, always a fun day..
& Santa always makes a special stop over.

As you can tell, the girls did not want to sit on his lap,

but they were perfectly happy giving him high fives from arms length away.

much happier sitting with daddy :)

Hope everyone had a great holiday !

xo.

merry christmas.

2011-12-24T00:41:00.001-05:00

I always love to take a sweet treat as little gifts.

I was actually gifted some yummy oreo truffles a few weeks ago & instantly knew what I was going to make for Christmas.

It was hard not to eat a couple while I was making them..

well, I did have to make sure they were tasting delicious too !

I hope you all have a wonderful holiday with your family, friends & loved ones.

xo.

a crafty christmas.

2011-11-30T21:58:00.003-05:00

Oooh how I love Christmas time.

Everything about it, but one of my favorite things about this time of year is all the decorating!

I think Pinterest is going to get me in trouble this year though..

everytime my husband turns around I am starting another crafty project.

This year I made some cute & super simple bunting for our tree.

I just used cream linen and some Christmas colored buttons I had..

that is the good thing about doing stuff like this all the time, I have acquired so much crafting "stuff" that I can just go through my boxes and find fun things to use!

This was so simple, but just the right touch for our tree.

(yes, our tree is a fake, I do love real trees -

but we will opt to use our fake tree one more time for this year)

all the little details matter ..

I made these 'joy' and 'peace' bunting's for some pictures I did of the girlies last month

(can't share them yet!!)

I just used burlap, fabric & iron on letters...

they ended up being the perfect extra touch for the family room.

Now to my favorite creation of the year..

my 'no-sew' ruffle tree skirt..

I followed these directions pretty much exactly, besides changing the ribbon color..

It was pretty easy to make, although my big belly is getting in the way of leaning over for things like this! The fabric can get expensive, I was lucky enough to have a few coupons to use for it... and it does take lots of hot glue gun sticks, but totally worth it. It really looks like I could have bought it, even my husband was super impressed.

Last but not least, from last year, we have our count down to Christmas day..

It is still waiting for ornaments, well really waiting for December to begin tomorrow.

So most of the decorating is done,

now time for some yummy baking?!

.. maybe some cute DIY gifts coming soon too :)

xo.

Thankful.

2011-11-25T21:07:00.002-05:00

It seems like each year there is more & more to be thankful for.

The obvious..

.. their health, their laughter, & their love.

Truly the best gift.

I am so thankful for my husband for being so caring, patient & loving.

We are so lucky.

This year we are all thankful for this healthy & ever growing baby in my belly.

I cannot wait to have my three girls in my arms at once.

They cannot wait to get their hands on their little sister..

Of course I am thankful for so much more too.

We had such a great time with our family & friends this Thanksgiving,

and ate some super delicious food!

I hope you all enjoyed your family & friends too.

Happy Thanksgiving friends!

just a boring, pictureless update ..

2011-11-09T17:28:00.000-05:00

I haven't just written in a while, I feel like there has been so much going on, I have definitely been neglecting my blog. I miss the crafts & baking posts, luckily with the busy season of work slowing down I will be able to catch up on that stuff. Plus, this is the season for all the best kinds of crafts & DIYs.

I guess I'll bore you with some pregnancy updates..

26 weeks along this week.. that sounds so close to 30 .. & that is what I consider in the home stretch to the end ! I find myself getting so anxious to just have this baby, but then I remember that I have an almost 4 year old... so I know I can be patient. I am trying to enjoy just having two children right now, because I know that three will really mix things up!

Everything has been going pretty good with this pregnancy overall...

but the beginning was tough.. so tough.. the toughest out of all three pregnancies.

Sick everyday, every minute. After almost being admitted to the hospital, begging my Dr. not to do that to me, I ended up with a Zofran pump... giving me med 24/7 so I could survive.

I made it through. At about 12 weeks on the dot I was feeling better.

I think I am in the "feel good" stage right now.. besides the not sleeping and being exhausted all the time, I am "feeling good".

I am loving my belly, trying to soak up every day of it because I'm just not sure I can do it again.

Baby is kicking and moving around all the time. I officially started getting kicked in the ribs this week.

The best part of all of this is seeing the girls reactions about the new baby.

They definitely both understand whats coming. They love to feel the baby move, especially Maddie, she will sit there patiently waiting to feel a movement & when she does her face lights up.

I know I will have a couple good helpers when baby arrives :)

Hoping that the next three months fly by smoothly..

all I ask is that she comes between 37-42 weeks & I have a quick labor.. I hope she is listening !

We do have a name picked out & I will post a blog with is soon :)

The only real thing we have started to do to "prepare" for baby is getting the big girls in new beds & redoing their room... not even really for the baby haha.

I can't wait to finish & share how cute it looks! I have way too many ideas.. thanks to Pinterest.

Work has been very consistent, every time I think I'm getting ahead, I find myself having more & more to do.. that is good though right? What am I going to do with myself when I am not shooting this winter?! I have a few more shoots this year, then I will be back at it in the Spring of next year. I love seeing my 2012 calendar filling up already!

I of course am so excited for the holidays this year,

always with the girlies the holidays are so much better.

I love Thanksgiving with family & friends, obviously good food.

But my favorite is Christmas time- seeing the joy on my girls faces & of course being with family & obviously eating then too :)

Hopefully that doesn't sound like one big rant, but just thought I would share a little more than usual.

Be back soon friends !

chicago weekend.

2011-10-27T23:29:00.000-04:00

I was so lucky to be able to get away and spend a weekend in Chicago with my husband.

No real plans, just shopping, eating, & sleeping ... and of course golf for him.

We did lots of shopping & good eating.

It was such a beautiful weekend, it was so nice being able to walk everywhere.

We did most of the site seeing too.

This was about the only picture we got of ourselves together.. still cute :)

Probably our last weekend away together before baby 3 gets here.
It was a great one :)
xo.

dressing up.

2011-10-17T23:28:00.005-04:00

I love Halloween, I have always loved Halloween, but I'm pretty sure when you have kids it just makes things like this so much better.

The girls had so much fun dressing up for a little Halloween party last night.

Maddie was the perfect little Alice.

She is good at showing off those big blue eyes too.

Josie was the cutest little bunny.

She is always a ham in front of the camera, but somehow pulls it off without even looking at the camera.

She is a professional little hopper too.

I can't wait to take them trick or treating, we will see how it goes... they both are pretty afraid of scary masks & fake (but real looking) skeletons & monsters. I know the candy thing will keep them motivated but I'm sure we will have at least one break down.

xo.

i heart fall.

2011-10-10T22:09:00.000-04:00

We have one big tree in our front yard..

This week it dropped about 90% of it's pretty yellow leaves.

Which made for a long clean up, but of course lots of fun too.

plenty of big piles to jump around in..

& I just love all the beautiful colors.

& Maddie's favorite part..

xo.

wedding fun.

2011-09-29T21:16:00.001-04:00

One of my good friends got married last weekend,

it was a nice change being the guest instead of working all day!

I love getting to dress up & dance all night.

And of course it was a close to the heart ceremony since I know them.

I did however take my camera, I just wanted to share some of the sweet moments I captured :)

It was so great being with all of my close friends too.

Good thing I wasn't the only one celebrating sober that evening ;)

(girl, boy, girl)

Showing off our baby bumps.

xo.

sugar & spice..

2011-09-21T14:06:00.001-04:00

.. & everything nice..

that's what little girls are made of.

xo.

a little bit of fun.

2011-09-16T14:43:00.001-04:00

or a lot of fun if you're me :)

I just wanted some fun & colorful pictures

Josie is obsessed-- I mean obsessed- with wearing glasses.. sunglasses or reading glasses.

I had these frames (no lenses) that she will wear around on a regular basis.

the red fits her personality so well.

I love this silly picture of the girlies..

thinking a big canvas of this is needed.

I'm sure they will love this when they are older.

We have been without internet for a couple weeks now, we were switching providers & I am so glad we have it back ! I was having some withdrawals from my blog friends.

I have been busy growing this baby too.

xo.

ps. we already found out what we are having.. can't wait to share ! :)

happy september.

2011-09-01T17:35:00.001-04:00

Happy September friends.

These pictures sure make me happy..

who doesn't love some bright, beautiful, yellow sunflowers.

xo.

end of Summer days.

2011-08-29T20:08:00.000-04:00

We have so been enjoying these beautiful days,

I could sit outside in the shade all day.

Especially with these cuties.

Both of the girls start school next week, so we are soaking up the last of our Summer days together.

{this girl love hopscotch & is so good at it !}

I had a mini breakdown - tears involved- about Josie going to preschool. She is only going 6 months sooner than Maddie did, & still part time, but for some reason it is harder.

They both are going to a new school so maybe the whole double change is triggering it.

I will miss them during the week, but I know they will do great !

Until then, more days like these please.

They look so big to me in these pictures..

xo.

thinking ahead..

2011-08-23T20:59:00.001-04:00

Fall has been in the air lately..

the cooler nights..

school buses in the neighborhoods..

and Halloween costume catalogs in the mail.

We have been talking about what the girls want to be for Halloween this year,

I am giving up & letting them choose for themselves.

We were taking a walk last week when I asked them the first time..

Maddie said "I want to be a ghost... no I want to be Glinda the nice witch."

(she is obsessed with the Wizard of Oz)

Josie, who I think was just naming things, said "a bee.. no a worm."

The next few days the catalogs came in bunches.

Of course the first one we opened had a Glinda costume..

Maddie is set on that.

Josie is going back & forth between a sheep and Dorothy (this is all them choosing!!)

.. at least she gave up the worm idea.

Like I said, Maddie has been very into Wizard of Oz lately.

She loves the movie, I thought it would be too scary for her, but guess not!

For Maddie's first Christmas (I think 1st) she got a pair of ruby red slipper's. Now that they fit, she wears them everywhere that I let her, and usually she is carrying "toto" along with her.

Although this is one sad looking Dorothy.

...that's better :)

A few funny faces from Josie..

she just cracks me up.

& some sissy love to top it off.

I can't wait to see what they decide !

xo.

... & counting.

2011-08-09T20:51:00.001-04:00

This Summer has been a whirlwind-- that is really an understatement.

I can't believe it has been that long since I have blogged..

well, then again I can since we have been so busy!

Besides that there is some exciting new news..

...the beans have been spilled.

We are expecting another baby.

I am 13 weeks along, going fast, but seems like forever to go.

I will answer a few questions that seems to be the ones we get each time someone else finds out:

1. we will find out what the gender is

2. my due date is Feb 17th

3. no preference in gender just healthy :)

seems to be those three questions from everyone just like that.

"will you find out what your having ? when are you due? do you want another girl or a boy this time?"

We are SO excited.

I just thought I would do a little blog post introducing the news..

Hope everyone is enjoying their Summer <3

xo.

raspberry picking.

2011-07-24T18:34:00.000-04:00

Last week we took the girlies raspberry picking.

It has been so hot, unbearably hot, so we went early morning. The sun was still shining bright.

We had such a great time.

We talked all about how the fruits & vegetables we eat grow from the Earth.

And, of course, I took my camera.

The hats were all their idea, but what a sweet touch.

It was hard to keep Josie from eating them all.

I can't wait to go again.

xo.

outtakes.

2011-07-06T22:48:00.000-04:00

I really just wanted one where they were both looking.. without making a silly face..

but these ended up to be even better.

These make me laugh.

They were too good not to share.

xo.

4th of July weekend.

2011-07-05T22:52:00.000-04:00

Busy & fun to say the least.

Sunday night we went downtown to watch fireworks from the rooftop of a building.

The girls loved them!

thank you to my S-I-L who took this super cute picture of me & the girlies !

& my favorite pictures of the night...

...and switch...

hope everyone got to enjoy the holiday!

xo.

perfect picture.

2011-06-29T23:47:00.000-04:00

Bry & I had the best time getting our pictures taken by a wonderful photog friend, Jenny.

We celebrated our 3 year anniversary & this was my "gift"-- him agreeing to do the pictures :)

You can see more here on Jenny's blog.

Here are a few more of my faves I wanted to share too :)

I love every single one.

It was very special just having it be the two of us.

Thank you Jenny for the beautiful images & for letting me share these with my readers !

...

I hope everyone is having a great summer-- ours is definitely a busy one. This summer I have had the pleasure of second shooting weddings for the very talented ladies at Blink of an Eye Photography. Between shooting weddings on the weekends & trying to keep the girls entertained during the week we are always moving!

I am really looking forward to the next busy 8 weeks--

and then a relaxing family vacation at the end of the craziness.

be back soon!

xo.

cute & sticky.

2011-06-24T22:42:00.001-04:00

We took the girls out for ice cream tonight.

They loved every.bit.of.it.

...and the first drips begin...

ok, getting a little messy..

even sprinkles in the hair..

I think it's time for bowls..

I didn't have any ice cream, but I sure enjoyed watching them eat theirs!

... daddy even got his favorite - butter pecan milkshake.

xo.

..lesson learned.

2011-06-22T20:40:00.002-04:00

Well, lesson learned..

I will not try to trim the girls hair, ever again.

Remind me that I said this if I ever mention doing it.

I am lucky that I only did one child and that it actually turned out to be a cute haircut, but it was much shorter than I intended & took much longer... & much more patience.

Josie is the one who "went first"... and ended up being the only one getting a trim.

Maddie looked terrified watching as I was cutting Josie's.

She is 100% into growing her hair long.

She really tears up thinking about getting it cut, so today I spared her.

Like I said, I got lucky...

& she is just so cute it doesn't matter what her haircut is like..

although I do think it looks better than the mullet-like craziness she had growing.

The girls are getting so big, looking & acting more like sisters everyday.

Like I said before.. they are so lucky to have each other!

xo.

we are the lucky ones.

2011-06-19T21:53:00.001-04:00

She has his eyes..

She has his wild child personality..

They both have his heart..

We are so lucky to have the best daddy & husband.

Everyday there is another reason why I am so thankful he is ours.

Happy Father's Day to you ...

& (RIP) to my father in law who raised the father/husband we are so lucky to have today,

he would be so so proud.

& also to my dad, who is the best 'Papa' the girls could have,

it warms my heart to see him with them.

& to my Grandpa, who was like a Father to me growing up,

I could always go to him for anything, & still can.

This is one lucky daddy who got to do & have all his favorites today.

Golf.

Homemade brunch by yours truly.

Lazy time on the couch with ESPN magazine.

Chipotle.

Watching the US Open (go Rory!).

& of course all day with his favorite girls.

He deserves so much more.

xo.

back to reality.

2011-06-15T23:06:00.000-04:00

What a weekend?!

Where to begin.. well last Friday I shot a beautiful wedding in Florida.. It was filled with love & fun times.

I took a few days for myself to enjoy the beach & friends too.. I really had all intentions of working a ton while down there, but didn't do any work (besides shooting of course).. but I had an amazing time with old friends, that felt like new because it had been so long. It was so great to feel so welcomed with all of the bride & groom's wonderful families that was there to celebrate too.

I enjoyed long days by the pool

We played some volleyball on the beach--I think I can actually say I did pretty good.

Good food & drinks..

GREAT company..

Tried to make it to yoga..

& of course I took lots of pictures!

I even got to take the bride & groom out on the beach one night at sunset for some AMAZING photos.. I cannot wait to share them all.. I'm trying to keep myself contained about them-- my photoshop is on the fritz so hopefully tomorrow I will be back in business & banging out the editing from the past two weekends to share.

I am so happy to be back to my family.. I really think every mother/wife needs & deserves a get away here & there-- it refreshes your mind & heart...

I am overflowed with laundry & organizing this tornado of a house, but so happy to be back here.

I spent the day with my girlies.. took them to lunch & watched Disney movies all afternoon.

Looking forward to some pool days with them next week.

xo.

packing.

2011-06-08T22:53:00.000-04:00

Not sure if they were trying to help.. or delay me.

Either way, I'm packed and ready to go.

Maddie has mixed feelings about me leaving, I think this is really the first time I will be gone and she can really understand that.

There is laundry all over my house.. hopefully my husband can pull together some decent outfits for the girlies this weekend :)

I was surprised at how easy it was too pack-- I think I'm just used to packing for four.

I might actually get some sleep tonight because I am all packed up.

xo.

short & sweet.

2011-06-08T00:50:00.001-04:00

Hello friends, I feel like it has been so long!

Summer has taken over.. well, and work.

I am leaving Thursday for Florida, I am going to shoot a wedding, but also taking a few days to enjoy the beach and sunshine.

I spent the day with the girlies, ending the day playing ring around the rosey.

We were all [besides my husband] battling a round of strep throat a couple weeks ago, that definitely threw me off.. When I am back from out of town, things should start to slow down.. hopefully some fun & yummy posts when I get back.

xo.

Summer begins.

2011-05-30T22:54:00.002-04:00

Summer has officially arrived.

We spent the long weekend doing a little bit of everything.

Kicking the season off right with family, friends, a pool & grilling out.. & don't forget the wine.

Today I spent the afternoon with the girlies outside.

It is so nice to have the sunshine back.

These cuties are going to have a fun summer.

xo.

my little ballerina.

2011-05-26T22:07:00.000-04:00

Maddie's first ballet recital was last weekend.. She did awesome, I'm so proud of her!

She had a little solo during their routine.. she nailed it.

Of course, I cried.

a little stretching and practice

& a little Tinkerbell to calm their nerves.

They were all nervous before they went on, I was for them too.

I had to crop it in to see this picture of her doing her solo --

[below] look at Maddie -- last one on the right.. up on her toes- so cute.

so proud of our girl

sissy love..

xo.

party time.

2011-05-23T20:40:00.000-04:00

hello friends, hope your weekend was wonderful!

we had a very busy, but very special weekend here.

Lots of fun stuff :)

Josie's 2nd birthday party was Saturday..

nothing crazy, just a little party to celebrate the fabulous little being that she is.

white chocolate (colored pink) dipped marshmallows..

pink rice krispie treats..

chocolate covered & cheesecake stuffed strawberries..

we had other food but the sweet stuff makes for better pictures :)

she is so loved.

Thank you to all of our family & friends who came to help us celebrate.

Me & my girl.

we got a cute family picture too

& of course I had to snap a few of the girls..

Maddie was giving her little sister a birthday hug.

...

we also had Maddie's first ballet recital this weekend.. but that is a whole other blog itself.

she did awesome.

be back soon.

xo.

Josephine is turning 2.

2011-05-19T01:23:00.004-04:00

I can't believe my baby is TWO.

It seriously brings me to tears thinking about it.

Where do I start, my sweet Josephine--

I have always said her personality is as sweet & strong as her name.

She has no fear, only as long as her mama is by her side.

Although she thinks she is three-- sometimes, I can still smell her sweet baby breath.

Her laughter is contagious & she could melt your heart with one sweet look from her big brown eyes.

Today someone at the store told me "she looked like a little lady.."
sometimes she has the attitude to match.

I love her so much, I don't think I could love her more.

she is my baby.

..there's no rush in getting older..

xo.

street market.

2011-05-13T23:29:00.003-04:00

I had some free time to myself this morning.. very rare, so I took advantage & went downtown to the market for some fruits & vegetables, I think I ended up with more sweets though :)

I took home some gorgeous flowers--

Sunflowers, my favorite.

& Stocked up on some goodies..

I fell in love with this pretty little thing-- string of pearls-- I took home a little one, so hopefully it flourishes into something like this!

I might have to go back for this pitcher plant.

Of course I had to have something sweet-- I couldn't decide so I got it all.

I even went home with my favorite cherry pie-- can't wait to dig in tomorrow.

I made sure to bring the girlies home a little something-- or somethingS-- because I know I couldn't bring home just one pair.

They love their binoculars, they will be busy this weekend!

xo.

a taste of summer.

2011-05-13T14:16:00.000-04:00

This week has been unusually hot.. thank goodness for water hoses & blow up slides.

Hopefully we have LOTS of summer days like this.

some cool treats

& breaks in the shade

& a sweet baby to love on..

the girls were a little obsessed.

you can bet they slept well last night!

hello sunshine.

2011-05-11T00:21:00.001-04:00

We picked some of our favorite books & sat outside..

all morning.

I brought some "books" outside to look at too :)

and of course,

We had a visitor too..

While the girls were napping I sat outside with a book & my camera waiting for this little guy to come back. I wish I had a better zoom lens-- but that didn't stop me-- it just meant I had to be brave and go in for the shot.

My neighbors definitely think I'm crazy,

because I know they couldn't see the little bee that I was chasing around.

I like that one above, its wings were flapping so fast-- I caught them right at the top of the bee's body.

have a lovely night friends :)

fishtail braids & tanks.

2011-05-09T21:39:00.000-04:00

The beautiful weather outside today called for a tank top & wind blown hair.

Thanks to a few years of girls scouts & a refresher course from a good friend, I am working on perfecting my fishtail braid.

I may still need a little work, but I like the messy look..

this is after a long day of working & driving with the windows down.

I like this look I am giving Bry while he reluctantly took a picture of my hair.

I think I was 'saying' -"take the picture & stop complaining"-- he was running out the door to golf.

Does anyone else have a weird obsession with these?

Have you ever tried them?!

They are so yummy.

After a long day of sunshine, Josie was asleep at 6pm, so ~~Maddie~~ Princess Maddie enjoyed some chocolate milk.

I'm not sure the royal family would approve.

but I do :)

xo.

Happy Mother's Day.

2011-05-08T22:46:00.001-04:00

Like I said It last year,

from one mother to another,

Happy Mother's Day.

I got to spend some special time with my mom this weekend--
My cousin got married over the weekend, it was the most beautiful wedding.

I was so happy to be with family & get to spend some quality time with my husband, the reason I have the two beautiful daughters that I have.

Weddings always make me emotional--
hearing the readings during the ceremony are always great reminders of what a strong bond marriage is.

plus we got to dance the night away!
...
Anytime I am away from the girls, or they are away from me, I am up at the crack of dawn ready to get them.
I spent the afternoon cuddling with them while they napped.

after bath we snuck outside for a couple pictures just for Mother's Day.

I am so blessed to have them. I say it to myself everyday.
I love watching them grow, learn & experience life.
Everyday they teach me something new about myself as a mother.
I am so glad they are mine.

I still see lots of room on my lap for more :)

Hope all of you mama's out there had a wonderful day - and give yourselves a thousand pats on the back for all the hard work you do that sometimes goes unnoticed.

xo.

sweet things.

2011-05-05T20:31:00.001-04:00

I have had Josie's birthday party on my mind lately..

nothing big just a little celebration for our sweet girl..

which brings me to the theme..

just sweet.

I always say "sweet Josephine" so that's just what stuck out.

I have some easy treats in mind to make, some decorations already started & cake ideas bookmarked.

I made my way to Joann's with my coupons & found the cutest card stock-- my favorite thing to craft with.

This is my whole inspiration for Josie's 'sweet' birthday party.

Working on invites tonight.

we had plenty of sunshine today & we definitely took advantage of it.

We went to two parks today-- it is nice to have this sunshine back to wear my kids out.. both were asleep by 7pm with no fuss.. but looking at the five day forecast, I'm not thrilled.

I am however looking forward to this weekend--

I get to dress up twice & pretty much have two date nights with my husband.

It's been a while- we deserve it & need it.

Hopefully I can get a ~~cute~~ handsome picture of him in his tux Saturday night :)

Good thing we have some special people in our lives that take great care of the girlies.

Of course, Sunday is Mother's day-- anyone doing anything special?

This should be a great weekend,
I hope everyone gets to enjoy it with loved ones & give your mama's extra love.

xo.

oh the joys..

2011-05-04T21:58:00.001-04:00

.. of motherhood that is.

Two blog posts in one day- pretty rare- but the girls have been fast asleep for a while now.

I think it's safe to say we are beginning potty training, Josie has been going on the potty for a while now, but mostly for fun (for her not me).. but now I think she is serious about it. Hopefully it will be as easy as it was with her sister.

I can't believe it is sixteen short days until my baby is two.

I may or may not have a breakdown.

anyone else have to keep the toilet paper off the roll so it doesn't end up everywhere?

I think her favorite is the washing hands part..

On a positive note- she didn't potty in her pants all afternoon..

but she did poop in the bathtub.

which resulted in showers for her & Maddie.

Needless to say, she needs new bath toys for her birthday.

xo.

the littlest things.

2011-05-04T16:21:00.001-04:00

Give these girls a pond & some rocks -- they will be happy.

They could've spent hours throwing rocks.

If only time would stand still

I at least hope they keep this spirit forever.

after the sun went back to hide we put our coats on & finished our weekly [hopefully daily soon if the rain ever stops] nature hike-- Maddie brought her camera so she could take pictures. She is amazing, I will post a post with just pictures from her camera, you will be impressed.

meanwhile JB was trying out the swing.

& the sweetest picture of the day--

I had to pull my camera out so quick to get this..

she was taking a picture of them together.

xo.

Sunday [family] fun day.

2011-05-01T22:49:00.002-04:00

Of course the weather - literally - rained on our parade for plans we had for the afternoon, but luckily I have the best husband who took his all girls out for frozen yogurt & a movie.

they loved every bite.

so did we :)

Josie kept saying "daddy clean up, strawberries!" "uh oh, clean up?" because she was dropping some.. she was so concerned.

{and notice the stickers stuffed in her pocket haha}

I want more already.

We took the girls to see Rio, it was pretty cute!

Josie talked the whole time & squealed every time they showed a different animal.

Maddie just sat & watched intently, but cried a little when the popcorn was gone.

We stopped to play in the wet grass in the yard, I just snapped these really quick.

I think Josie was reacting to sitting in wet grass.. & Maddie is just a goofball.. a super cute one :)

I can't believe it is May already!

Hopefully all of these April showers will bring some beautiful May flowers.

xo.

happy typing.

2011-04-30T00:11:00.004-04:00

Hello friends, I am blogging tonight from my new MacBook Pro.. I loves it. I have never had anything Apple until I got my iPhone this year and since working on a friends Apple computer recently I was hooked. The keys are so much easier to type on than my other computer, they were awful, now that I have something better to compare to! I feel like I am back in typing class - I don't even have to look at the keys at all. The screen is so big too-- & the picture is so sharp.

Although, the time on it says it is 8:48pm at 11:48pm- and I thought I set it - I am figuring out everything pretty fast.

...

Did you all catch at least a glimpse of the Royal Wedding? Even if it was from an entertainment show or newspaper- I hope you did! The girls and I spent the night at my mother-in-laws and we all [besides Josie] woke up and watched the whole wedding.. even Mads woke up at about 5:30am, after demanding to sleep in her Princess dress all night (I have witnesses).

Once she saw Kate in that wedding dress she was hooked.

I absolutely loved Kate's Sarah Burton ceremony dress.. I thought it was perfect.

But I will say that I loved her in her second dress even more than the first, but obviously she had to keep it more conservative during the ceremony.

..and like any other wedding- there's all the hype - it's quick & then just over !

...

We have a simple weekend planned-- a little golf for my husband and a little work tomorrow afternoon for me & the girls will have beautiful weather to play outside in.

Hopefully the rain can stay away for a couple more days.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

ps. any helpful computer advice welcome!

xo.

Princess party.

2011-04-28T20:00:00.001-04:00

This afternoon the girls & I had ourselves a little Princess party in honor of the Royal Wedding tomorrow.

We had cucumber sandwiches, chocolate covered strawberries & "tea".

I am so excited to watch the wedding.

Maddie is obsessed with Princesses & brides -- she can tell you about the Royal Wedding too.

Don't tell my Grandma I let the girls "play" with her china.

Did you know that Prince William's last name is Mountbatten-Windsor ?

I had to google it today because I didn't know, so I thought I would share!

Of course I cannot wait to see K~~ate~~ Catherine's dress too!!

xo.

butterflies.

2011-04-27T15:14:00.002-04:00

Just for fun :)

and thank you to whoever built this fabulous teepee in the woods.

xo.

Easter Sunday.

2011-04-26T00:51:00.001-04:00

The Easter Bunny made it to our house.

Ate his carrots & left some goodies.

We spent the morning at brunch and an Easter hunt for the kiddies.

& bubbles always make things more fun.

After a great afternoon nap at home-- we went to my grandparents house for Easter.

The girls did a little egg hunt there too-- we are filled up on quarters!

We played outside most of the day-- it was so beautiful.

A little wet, but getting dirty is always worth the fun.

We forgot our baskets- of course- so good old recycled bag will do :)

Although we had a great day of fun, treats & toys.. we don't forget what this day is really all about.

I am feeling a great sense of renewal and new hope.

Hope you all had a wonderful holiday too!

xo.

earth day.

2011-04-23T00:53:00.003-04:00

A normal day wouldn't be normal if something crazy and unexpected didn't happen.

We had so much planned for today, but instead we spent it at home with a sick kiddo.

I experienced a few firsts today.. I will spare you all.

Maddie watched Alice in Wonderland & relaxed.

It's funny how even though she is sick she still had to wear her headband and hair "down like Cinderella's" (that is how she tells me to do her hair every.day.)
...

We did talk about Mother Earth today.

I did get to take Josie out to play in the rain for a little bit & get her hands a little dirty.

two of the purist things.

I think she was most excited that she got to wear sissy's rainboots :)

...

Daddy came home with our carrots to leave out for the Easter Bunny this weekend.

the girls can't wait to look for their baskets Sunday morning.

We have quite a few things planned this weekend, so I am praying Maddie is recovered tomorrow--

she seemed much much better by bedtime.

We are looking forward to being with family & friends to celebrate this weekend.

Now I just wish the weather would cooperate for us for the Easter egg hunts and cute dresses part.

xo.

wordless.

2011-04-21T21:10:00.002-04:00

nothing really to say today..

just some pretty pictures.

be back tomorrow for Earth Day :)
xo.

puppet show & fun.

2011-04-20T22:39:00.000-04:00

Maybe we are going a little stir crazy-- just as we were getting used to all the beautiful weather.

Today the girls and I made little finger puppets-

They put on a real show for me.

Maddie named the show "Butterfly & friends".

they even lined the cast up to take a bow..

They had a much needed snack break after all that hard work.

We looove these little oranges around here..

Josie is all about peeling them by herself, "no, I do it."

and then there is my husband..

.. who can juggle anything- he has tried to teach me but I just don't have that kind of coordination.

...

I saw these flowers at Wal-Mart the other day

& I just loved the teal color of the bucket with the pink flowers.

xo.

sugar sugar.

2011-04-19T00:19:00.000-04:00

Making sugar cookies [just used the cookie recipe] tonight was a perfect way to end a crazy day.

It was after dinner & the light was getting low but I love these pictures.

I love color & I love sprinkles.

our kitchen table may or may not still look like this sprinkle-y mess.

The girls were outside swinging golf clubs with daddy when the cookies were done cooling so I took them out to show them and of course take pictures of them.

my neighbors probably think I'm crazy..

first the chair..

now this.

in the meantime..

xo.

my little flower children.

2011-04-18T00:09:00.003-04:00

I will never get tired of taking their pictures-- these might be some of my favorites of them.

You should have seen us walking to the park with this chair in our wagon and the three of us holding hands pulling it down the sidewalk.

Then we found this cute little patch of white flowers.

These little girls are true free spirits.

They love to go barefoot & feel the dirt in their toes.

I really don't mind.

[ we checked for splinters - all clear ]

this is all them people.. I did not pose these.

Josie went to check out the fence-- so Maddie had to come over too.

Of course I say "look at my camera!" :)

Back into the woods..

flowers still in hand.

then they were off to play at the park-

don't worry our shoes are in the wagon ;)

They are just too much fun.

I think my photography might be rubbing off on my three year old.

She always wants to take a picture-- I have to take my battery pack off so she can even hold it up.

I let her take my picture last week

a lot of them turned out like this..

but I loved this one- just because my baby took it and I know my smile is all for her.

its still a little blurry in the eyes, but I had it set to a 1.8f-- she rocked it!

...

This weekend was great-- went by too fast.

I a super cute wedding & can't wait to share the fun pictures !

I had a family session today too that went perfect.

The girlies went to my husband's Aunt & Uncle's house on Saturday afternoon to play.

They dyed Easter eggs.

Don't you love my little cake stand?

It even has a lid- I will have to put a pretty cake in there next.

...

I am just love love loving this weather.

I could live in Springtime forever.

I don't even mind the rain--

that's what cute wellies are for right?!

I hope we have nice weather next weekend for Easter.

all three of use girls have cute Easter dresses :)

xo.

strawberries & cream muffins.

2011-04-11T22:27:00.004-04:00

I had to make these muffins quick before all of the strawberries disappeared-
they don't last long in our house.

I was looking around for some kind of strawberry cupcake I wanted to make--

but I saw these strawberries and cream muffins instead.

I wasn't sure how they would turn out - usually takes me two tries to perfect things :)

But these were perfect-

delicious.

I started with some red, sweet strawberries.

What you will need :

1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 and 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/8 tsp. almond extract
2 large eggs

2 cups flour
3/4 cup sugar
2 and 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup fresh ripe strawberries chopped into very small pieces

{for cream mixture}

4 oz. full-fat cream cheese, very soft
1 and 1/2 Tbsp. of liquid from one whole egg that's been beaten lightly
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 tsp. vanilla extract

remember to read all the directions through-- then start :)

preheat oven to 400 degrees.

First cut your strawberries and set them aside.

{cream mixture} In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.

Mix until almost all the lumps are gone. Set this aside, but don't chill it.

Next step- {dry ingredients}

thoroughly mix together, in a large mixing bowl-

the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

set aside.

Next step-

in a sauce pan, melt the butter on low heat.

Add the vanilla extract, almond extract, and the milk into the butter & gently stir.

leave on stove over LOW heat until the mixture is just warm.

Then whisk in the eggs.

Add the butter, milk, and egg mixture into the dry ingredients,

blending just until combined-- do not overmix!

fill each muffin cup barely half full-

scatter a few pieces of strawberry on top of each one.

use a small spoon to add the cream cheese mixture on top of the strawberries.

On top of that, add on another tablespoon or two of the muffin batter.

On top of that, add a few more pieces of strawberry & slightly push them in the batter.

Add a little sparkle- you can add some coarse sugar on top--
be generous with it so you can see (and taste) it after they bake!

Bake the muffins for about 15 to 18 minutes,

until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

[Check on the muffins early, and if they're browning too fast, lightly cover the pan with a sheet of foil.]

let them cool on wire rack.. then enjoy!

viola..

strawberries & cream muffins.

I wish you could smell them through the computer--

they smell amazing-

and taste to match.

xo.

messy faces & polka dot dresses.

2011-04-10T22:04:00.001-04:00

Sundays are the best days.

We spent all afternoon at the park.

My shoulders are pink- my cheeks & nose have the base of my "summertime" freckles.

Today was just a teaser of what Summer has to offer-- we skipped straight to enjoying this eighty-something degree weather.

...

[get ready for lots of pictures in this post.

all girly pictures, but they are my best subjects-- & they're always available to me :) ]

...

The evening routines are starting to change from the seasons changing too.

My husband putting divots in the yard with his golf club,
and the girlies running around the yard
while I am in and out making dinner.

Today I grabbed my camera-
this is after a long day of hard play--

I love the messy hair, dirty faces & stained t-shirt look--

but hope you all don't mind ;)

this is probably a face I am getting because I am telling her not to pick the flowers- just smell them.

Maddie is in this phase where she is into taking a purse,

or bag, or basket full of her "stuff" with her wherever she goes.

They are following Murphy- who must be on the hunt of something good.

Last week I dressed the girlies up in their Easter dresses & took them to our favorite spot in woods near our house. We always go there on "nature hunts" as Maddie calls them,
the girls are good at collecting sticks & rocks.

We even brought our dog Murphy along to play the Easter bunny.

[don't mind my photography signature thingy on some of them]
again- I really don't let them pick the flowers they only got a couple & we put these in water at home :)

[I brought a few props with me- good thing we have a wagon!

I made the bunting with fabric, the birdcage I found at Hobby Lobby & the bird house is one I found for $5- I got it for our yard last month.]

whew- I know that was a lot but I had to share.

...

I have been hard at work too- great session after great session with wonderful clients/friends.

this is a favorite shot from my latest session- can we say adorable?!

I have been learning so much the past couple months working- I know I have a long way to go to where I want to be but I am slowly - happily- getting there.

I have fun things planned this week & a couple updates coming up too.

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

xo.

Tie Dye Cupcakes.

2011-04-05T22:42:00.001-04:00

I have been seeing these tie-dye cakes & cupcakes all around-

you know me.. I am a sucker for anything sweet & colorful.

Last weekend I ~~made~~ tried to make a tie dye cake.. the tie dye part turned out perfect,
but when you forget to spam the pan the cake part doesn't turn out so well.

So this time I just made cupcakes!

What you will need:

box of white cake mix
food coloring (at least four colors)
icing of your choice

All you have to do:

make box of cake as directed
divide cake mixture into bowls and add food coloring

[can you tell I took this after I was using the mix!]

pour in about a TBSP of each color at a time in layers (I don't have a picture)
Only fill each cup cake holder about 2/3 way full with cake mixture (If you want to make a cake instead just layer the colors the same in a cake pan)

I used a cream cheese icing.

so yummy & funky :)
enjoy.

xo.

April Fools!

2011-04-01T01:40:00.001-04:00

Hello Friends,

Is anyone doing anything fun for April fools day?

did I kinda get you excited with that post title? a little? :)

I wish I had something fun to share- when the girls are a little bit older maybe they can be in charge of reminding me these kind of fun days are coming up so I can plan better..

I am usually good at remembering the fun days that require cute dresses though.

I seem to be suffering from insomnia- self diagnosed-

going on day 3.. maybe 4.. who knows.

So why not get out my laptop and blog?!

Just randoms today I guess-

I got my hair done today- it is getting so long- finally!

I got it trimmed, but it actually looks longer to me - weird?

I am in need of some major [Spring] retail therapy.

& so are the girlies.

I wish Mother Nature would get her flip flops out of the closet because I am ready to get mine out.

I am ready for park play dates & bike rides with the fam.

I am done with runny noses & bulky coats.

I figured out how to download my cell phone pictures to my computer- I'm sure it has been this easy all along & I am just now figuring it out.

I picked out some funny/cute ones to share.

cuties..

date night..

family date night..

shopping diva..

de ja vu..

these pictures are a few days apart-

& lollipops from the bank

family day at the park..

silly face..

not napping..

grocery store..

fingers in nose..

prettiest flower girls..

annd.. more fingers in the nose.

even though I have no makeup in that picture & look very tired.

have a wonderful weekend!

I am hoping to pop in with goodies :)

xo.

NEW sponsor.

2011-03-29T15:13:00.002-04:00

Another great sponsor to tell you about today!

My Lovely Little Suitcase is an adorable Etsy shop with all kinds of goodies.

I asked Lane to introduce herself & her shop to you..

...
"Hello lovely readers of Love and Twenty Toes!
If you don't know me already my name is Lane and I'm from the blog My Lovely Little Suitcase. I'm not here for my blog though. I'm here trying to grow my Etsy shop. I sell a variety of goodies, everything from vintage cameras to handmade journals and confetti so be sure to take a look! I've just had a shop update as well so there's lots of new items, even more of a reason to stop on by!"

...

Personally, I am drooling over this confetti..

and love love this butterfly garland.

great for little girl's bedroom decor or birthday party decoration..hmm..

happy shopping :)

xo.

new fabric wrapped headbands.

2011-03-25T16:12:00.000-04:00

I think these are my new favorite accessory.

have seen these fabric wrapped headbands around & I have been dying to make them to add to my collection at Preen.

They are durable and well wrapped-

& I always use the cutest fabric :)

They are so dainty & cute.

They are pretty much one size fits all.

They are not available yet, I am working on them- I will surely let you (local readers) know.

I have been wearing one all day & have already had people ask me where I got mine.

what do you think ladies?

xo.

oscar & ollie anniversary code.

2011-03-24T11:49:00.001-04:00

oscar & ollie is so excited about their anniversary this weekend-
they feel like spreadin' the love.

From today until Sunday (10pm EST)

you can get 20% off anything in the Etsy shop [excludes custom or made to order items].

to receive your discount just use the code:

TWENTYANNIVERSARY

happy shopping :)

xo.

Easter baskets.

2011-03-23T21:39:00.004-04:00

I wanted a DIY Easter basket idea but just wasn't finding the "perfect" one.

I found these baskets 50% off -- ended up only being $4.

I decided to spice them up a little bit myself.

If you know me, (or if you don't) you know that I like a very simple, clean pretty.

I had the idea of just using fabric, I have lots around, and really you don't need that much for this.

The width and length really depends on the size of your basket handle.

I like the frayed edges of the fabric.

I used two different colors of fabric- tied them together on one end of the handle and wrapped & crossed it tight until it got to the other side.

I love how just the little bit of the fabrics colors and textures really add to the basket.

I had some thick twine in my craft bucket too.. which I thought about using ribbon or even fabric too.

I just super-glued the bow on.

How simple.

How sweet.

I think fresh flowers are a perfect addition to any Easter basket.

The Easter bunny knows I am picky & understands that I wanted to make my own baskets.

He still fills & hides them for the girlies :)

xo.

NEW sponsor.

2011-03-22T20:49:00.003-04:00

I am excited to announce that Love & Twenty Toes has its first sponsor-

I don't think there is a better way to introduce you to oscar & ollie,
than to let Amanda tell you a little bit about them and their products in her own words..

"oscar & ollie is a handmade paper goods & personalized gifts for kids company based in NYC. I make everything completely by hand and use all non-toxic lead free paints & finishes. I LOVE custom orders and working with people to make gifts that will match nurseries or kids' room decor (such as picture frames, mirrors, wall hooks, stools, & peg boards). I make greeting cards for all occasions, custom invitations, & treat bags for birthday parties or showers. I'm always happy to make all of my paper goods in custom colors or designs."

You can browse the website here: www.oscarandollie.com

If you don't want to go through Etsy you can email her directly at: amanda@oscarandollie.com

and like them on Facebook here: oscar & ollie Facebook page.

I have already been browsing for gifts & those adorable painted eggs are perfect for baby's first Easter.

I love all of the beautiful paper goods, I'm already making a list of what I want.

I love these beautiful cards for a special birthday.

I am also excited to share that oscar & ollie is going to extend a great offer to my readers :)

Follow my blog so you can ~~check back this week for the promo code.~~
*UPDATE: find promo code here

xo.

gimme s'more.

2011-03-21T22:54:00.003-04:00

..ok let's get right to it because I know you all will want to make & eat these right away.

if you don't eat them someone will, they are delicious.

What you will need- the s'mores basics:

graham crackers
large marshmallows
chocolate melts

this is another super simple dessert to make.

I started with breaking the graham crackers in half and placing them on wax paper.

I cut a large marshmallow into three parts for each cracker.

helpful tip: I had a glass of water handy for when my knife got sticky-

just a little bit will help- use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors.

I melted the chocolate by following the instructions on the bag.

I was trying to think of a way to pour the chocolate on them with getting a clean drip off the side- instead of the chocolate hardening and me having to break it to even the sides up- it doesn't look as pretty

[does that make sense?]

so I had the very clever idea of placing each cracker on top of a marshmallow-

then pour the chocolate on top.

it did work but I had a couple that toppled over,

but after they dripped a little bit I moved them to a flat surface.

Then comes the fun part of decorating them.

I just used colorful sprinkles [& a little love].

-- make sure you sprinkle while the chocolate is still melted, when dry they will not stick!!

I popped mine in the fridge for 15min and they were good to go eat.

see how the sides look clean and round instead of chocolate everywhere or it broken off the edges?

make sure you share too..

s'mores aren't just for bonfires anymore :)

these are super easy to take on the go.

enjoy !

...

and just because they are so sweet--

meanwhile..

xo.

weekend wrap up.

2011-03-21T00:09:00.001-04:00

the best things in life are free..

but I'm not going to lie, I splurged on these shoes.

They were actually on sale so I don't feel too bad -- now if only I could find them in my size!

I did a little "photo shoot" with my girls last Monday and I am just cracking up at some of these pictures.

My youngest daughter, Josie, is all into jumping. It is the most hilarious thing.

When I am trying to get their attention, or trying to get them to hold still for pictures- I usually say I am going to tell them a story..

you can see here (the first picture) Josie is already getting bored with the story.

& Maddie is on it.. as usual.

Jumping..

still jumping..

here is one a little later.. still jumping.

mid air!

We had a good, relaxing weekend. Spent Saturday at the park with my husband and the girls & Sunday afternoon shooting a family session.

Yesterday I had my camera out and just playing around after lunch.

No, I didn't make those cute chick cookies. Cheryl & Co did.

Don't you just love Maddie's fingernails too!

I am not usually a toy buyer, but while we were shopping the other day I came across this cute little bunny.

How could I pass him up?

He even has a cute little pink tail.

I think he will look cute in the girls room, on a shelf.

I have been bookmarking ideas for Josie's 2nd birthday party.

So far I think my choices are narrowed down to..ice cream OR just 'pink'

themes.. I have so many ideas.. blah.

Is anyone else drowning in the sound of basketball on tv and your husband's yells (of excitement &/or disappointment) every five minutes??

xo.

happy Friday.

2011-03-19T00:36:00.003-04:00

Hello friends!

It was a happy Friday indeed..

...waking up to see this is my blog feed

::Design Mom::

you should definitely get to know her & her website if you don't already!

Today was a busy day to say the least.

But it flowed nicely & it helped that the girlies were in good spirits all day.

We spent the afternoon with my sister, in a cute little town near us.

When we were little we used to live right around the corner.

It was just fun to walk around & there is a yummy little ice cream place that opened today.

They have the best little shops too.

Everything is so colorful, I knew I couldn't leave my camera behind.

I am a photographer, what do you expect?

I don't ask my girls to pose while we are out- and believe me I do not take my camera everywhere we go..

when I say " say cheese" .. this is usually what I get..

although, it is so adorable, I can totally tell she is faking, haha.

My favorite day is just wearing my camera around my neck and snapping when & what I want.

Whether this be at home or just a day of fresh air.

I like to find inspiration everywhere -

not just in faces.. but that is still my favorite :)

I didn't realize how many pictures I took until I got home.

all kinds of cute painted benches.

knit on some rocks & trees.

colors everywhere.

Maddie collected rocks & sticks in their bag along the way.

come on sis..

.. met a sweet little friend..

I can even take a picture with a baby on my hip...

love the baby in the back ..& that bear may be wearing some silly bands now.

I love purple stairs.

hold on let me fix my purse..

still got my purse..

my sister let me take her picture-- well- I don't know if she really had a choice.

She is a natural, I literally went snap-snap & they were perfect..

made our way to ice cream..

so I made my sister take a couple :)

& then the best part of the trip- for the girlies at least ;)

xo.

St. Patrick's day.

2011-03-17T19:37:00.001-04:00

Just a little treat today-- no, it's not green sorry!

but they are super yummy.

melted chocolate.

large marshmallows.

powdered sugar.

enjoy :)

xo.

four years.

2011-03-14T22:33:00.000-04:00

I know my girls are so loved now..

but I can only imagine how things would be if he were here.

We all know who their favorite would be..

& I'm sure he would make sure everyone knew it too.

We know he is with them everyday.

rip Babo 3/15/07.

xo.

weekend wrap up.

2011-03-13T22:52:00.000-04:00

This weekend was full of so many great things- in so many different aspects of life.

Making me appreciate more than I ever thought I could.

Hi Daddy!!

xo.

brownie popsicles.

2011-03-10T21:36:00.003-05:00

When meeting new people, I like to bring a dessert.

{not all of the time-don't hold me to that}

Yummy things usually make people happy.

& I just love sweet things.

As soon as I saw these I had to make them.

It is very simple.

you will need:

brownies
chocolate melts
popsicle sticks
sprinkles

directions:

make brownies & cut into rectangles & place on wax paper to cool.
melt colored chocolate chips (follow melting instructions on the bag for best results)
stick the popsicle sticks into the brownies
pour melted chocolate onto brownie (I found it was best to pour to hold the brownie on the sick best)
sprinkle almost immediately, before chocolate hardens
let shell harden and enjoy!

They are the perfect textures of soft brownie inside with the hard chocolate shell.. mmm..

why did I only eat one and give the rest away?!

{Original Tutorial Here}

xo.

rainy daze.

2011-03-09T20:26:00.000-05:00

It has been raining non-stop it seems like.

I really don't want to complain because I love wearing my rain boots.

{yes I linked the childrens size because I got the childrens size-fit woman size 6}

We are seriously ready for Spring.

I'm seriously ready for Spring.

Flowers.

Butterflies.

Sunshine.

Cute dresses ;)

I feel like I did so much today-

but none of what I actually wanted to get done.. haha.

I did like five loads of laundry & I was satisfied with that.

I had some time to be crafty.

I found these sticky cardboard letters- they were the only ones in the clearance aisle- I actually put them down the first day I saw them there & happen to see them again when I went back.

The directions said to stick the side to fabric & cut the shape-- I think I want to put this in the girls' room.

I also saw a super cute DIY recently-

then I had the thought of using a pretty cardstock and make bird silhouettes.

I put them in these silver spray painted frames that I already had-- I am going to hang them in our bedroom-- which has creams, greens, & blues.

I love how light they look.

{you can't tell in the picture but they have the perfect amount of sparkle on the birds.}

A day wouldn't be complete if I didn't turn my camera on my best little models.

They had all of the dress up clothes out

so I thought it would be more fun to play dress up in mommy's clothes :)

Maddie is wearing a shirt of mine {tied the straps in the back} & a belt of mine.

Josie is wearing a skirt of mine {I used clothes pins to pin the back haha}

Ugh- so cute I can't stand it.

I want this printed ASAP.

Just to be clear- they are not angels like this for pictures all the time-- these were seriously two out of 50 pictures that they were both looking at the camera-- or not jumping up and down.

Oh, and I had to bribe them with a little brownie.

But, to me, it was worth it ! Don't judge ;)

20 minutes later..

& there is the chocolate from the brownie I owed her..

you should have seen her backside -

I can't make this up, friends.

xo.

now available.

2011-03-08T16:37:00.003-05:00

a new batch of headbands is in at Preen.

This is just the assortment of different colors.

and here are the different styles..
& now available in adult sizes too!

You will have to go in the store to see all the others :)

I made some cute bobby pins too-

I had them in my hair and even in Josie's and they stayed put & looked adorable.

{I realize a lot of my blog readers are not located near me but I hope you are enjoying these anyway- you can surely find similar ones online :) }

xo.