Sassy Inspirations

This made me smile....

2011-02-22T20:30:00.000-08:00

You know how sometimes you just see a fabulous creation and it makes you SMILE? THIS is one of those creations..
Beautiful!! You must go see how Kristy made this piece. Shes SO talented!!
And LOOK at that HUGE sign....
You must see all the smiles on the Portfolio Page of Gorgeous Shiny Things!
AND this fabulous tea sandwich tray from Copy Cat Chics Babyshower

Whats making you smile today??
Big Hugs From Texas, Tara

THE Ultimate I LOVE BEING A Girl Party!!!!

2011-02-21T13:32:00.001-08:00

WOW!!! WOW!!! WOW!!!! I think that this party from Couture Parties is THE most beautiful GIRL CELEBRATION EVER!!!!

First, being a chip and dip girl, I LOVE the individual dip cups idea. SO COOL!!! Hello, lipstick on the mirror!!! SWOON!!!!

I might just pass out at the sight of this dress made of carnations and magazines & the "chandelier" made of Christmas tree icicles.! DOUBLE SWOON!!!

Stephanie's "THIS IS ME" wall has sent me over the edge and into a river of triple SWOON SOUP!!!!!!!!!!

YOU MUST my bloggy girlfriends go check out all the SWOONY details at Hostess with The Mostess Blog and then check out The Couture Parties Blog!

I LOVE BEING A GIRL!!!
Big Hugs From Texas, Tara

"All You Need is LOVE!"

2011-02-14T13:31:00.000-08:00

Happy LOVE DAY bloggy friends!!! I hope you and yours have a WONDERFUL DAY!!!

Big Hugs From Texas, Tara

More ice and snow.....

2011-02-08T21:26:00.000-08:00

is headed our way SO thought I better come up with a game plan for how we will spend our day. I think we might have to try this YUMMY recipe from Food Wine and Modge Podge!

Look at this yummy deliciousness!!!

Bacon-Cheese Pull Aparts from Why Not On a Tuesday!
Ingredients:
1 egg
2 Tablespoons milk
1 (16.3 oz.) can Pillsbury® Grands® Flaky Layers Refrigerated Original Biscuits
4-6 slices crispy bacon, cooked and broken into 1/2-inch pieces (or you can use 4-6 Tablespoons packaged real bacon pieces)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4-1/3 cup finely chopped green onions (4-5 medium), using both the green and white parts of the onion
1 (4-ounce) can mushroom pieces (optional)
cooking spray
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray an 11×7″ or 12×8″ (2-quart) glass baking dish with cooking spray (if you don’t having either of those size pans, you could probably use a 9×13″ pan–it just may turn out a little flatter). In large bowl, beat egg and milk with wire whisk until smooth. Separate biscuit dough into 8 biscuits and cut each biscuit into quarters. Gently stir the biscuit pieces into egg mixture to coat evenly, then fold in bacon, cheese, onions, and mushrooms, if desired. Spoon the mixture into your sprayed baking pan and arrange biscuit pieces in a single layer. Bake 23-28 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm by cutting into squares, or just pulling biscuits apart. Makes about 8 servings.

Since Bugs Preschool Valentines Party will probably be postponed...
We might need to make some of these cute heartbreaker valentines from Made!

We will have to decide what we plan on freezing too. Bug LOVES doing freezing experiments. (Did I mention that Capri Suns DO NOT freeze? The hubby figures its the packaging.)
What are y'all cooking, making and freezing???

Hugs,
Tara

Grocery Shopping Made Easy??? Yes, please!!!!!

2011-02-07T12:50:00.000-08:00

I ran into a mom from "Bug's" dance school at the grocery store, a few weeks ago and she shared with me her SUPER COOL shopping list, idea. I came right home and typed up my own and it has made grocery shopping MUCH more quick and organized. No more doubling back to the other side of the store, right after my lil ones have decided they are DONE with the store. WOO HOO I simply typed up a list of the usual grocery store "suspects" and then put them in order by aisle's at our Target. I saved a little room on the side for extra stuff we might need.
See.....

We highlight things as we run out and I underline the items that I have a coupon for!!! Cool, huh? (Ok, Im sure this idea is allllll over blogland but it was the first time I had ever seen it and I LOVE it!!!)What other FABULOUS organizing ideas have I been living without all these years????
Hugs,
Tara

"Oh, The Weather Outside is Frightful...But Inside Its So Delightful!!"

2011-02-03T12:37:00.001-08:00

Its been a crazy weather week for us here in Texas. Tuesday night we got hour's of freezing sleet, which turned into streets covered in ice. Basically our entire area has been shut shut down for 3 days. We have been having tons of fun...

making copies....

doing freezing experiments..

making stew...
hanging with daddy...

and having a toilet paper party...

The low for tonight is 8 and more snow is expected SO I am sure we will be having lots more family fun!!! What do y'all do on your snow days???
Hugs from Texas,
Tara

"Formal" Crafting Home Office Family Play Room

2011-01-14T17:51:00.001-08:00

Ahhhhhhh, its every new homeowners dream. A beautiful formal dining room, picture perfect room. Just waiting for a formal dinner party, candlelit with guests eating off of fine china. (insert record scratch here......)

THIS is our beautiful "FORMAL" dining room.....
I LOVE it. Its the only room in our house that is always spotless. BUT! We have lived in our home for 6 years and have only eaten at that table about 9 times.
We entertain A TON but our dinner parties happen in our family room with everyone gathered around our kitchen island.

Back to our "dining room." I shopped and shopped for THE perfect dining room set, back in the day. THANKFULLY, I didn't find exactly what I was looking for. We purchased this very traditional set from a friend and used our money to buy our family room couches, that we use everyday.

Since we don't live in a museum, I decided it was time to utilize this room for family activities and we have. Stay tuned and I will show you how we have turned our formal dining room into a home office and family gathering spot. I am thrilled to say it is still the most beautiful and spotless room in our house.....you never know when former President George Bush and Laura Bush, might drop in for a visit. ;)
Hugs,
Tara

This Post Brought To You By The Letter P!

2011-01-11T17:41:00.000-08:00

This week Bug is learning about the letter "P" at Preschool!!! Tomorrow for show-and-tell she wants to take POPCORN!!! We decided to package some up to share with each of her friends. I think she did a FABULOUS job on the "P" labels!! Learning is so fun!!!

Big Hugs from Texas!
Tara

Make Your Own Minnie Mouse Birthday Party Invitations

2011-01-10T10:36:00.000-08:00

Hot Dog!!!! Plans for Baby K's Minne Mouse Birthday party are underway. As promised, I wanted to share with you how I transformed these bargain wedding invitations that I bought at MJ Designs for $14.99 (Gartner Studios Tall Fuscia Floral Invitation Kit SKU: 86191) into SUPER CUTE MINNIE BIRTHDAY PARTY INVITES!

I started with my Mickey Ear Paper Shaper!

I used it to punch out the flower!

Then I attached the black card stock included in the set!

Then OH TOODLES....I opened my brand new Silhouette and he cut out cute lil Minnie Bows on The Paper Studio's Hot Pink w/ Polka Dots Paper (item # 466268) from Hobby Lobby! Added some text and the bows and Meeska, Mooska MINNIE MOUSE!!!! We have SUPER CUTE MINNIE MOUSE INVITES!!
I'm even using the reply cards, included in the set, as THANK YOU's!!!

More fun times in Mommyland!!! I love it!! I'm thinking with the left overs, I might have to make some fun Valentines cards!! What have you been working on???
Hugs
Tara

Too Cute Minnie Party Ideas

2011-01-03T16:44:00.000-08:00

Baby K Turns 2 in a few weeks and shes is allllllllllll about Minnie Mouse. Ive been doing some research and have found some cute ideas for her party! There is NOTHING better than hearing her yell "Min Mouse! Min Mouse!" when she is watching me do her party research!

Loving the foam Minnie table decor from Heavenly Blooms blog!

Loving this Mickey wall decor from Catch My Party!

I am especially GIDDY about these wedding invites that I found at MJDesigns on sale for $14.99.
Stay tuned to see how I will be turning them into SUPER CUTE MINNIE BIRTHDAY INVITES!!!!

Hugs,
Tara

Merry Christmas!!!

2010-12-26T08:07:00.000-08:00

Hugs from Texas,
Tara

Im Dreaming Of A White Christmas...mantel

2010-12-06T08:48:00.000-08:00

Last year when I was planning Baby K's "Winter One-derland" Birthday Party, I fell in LOVE with SNOWFLAKES! I decided to keep this year's Christmas decor simple, elegant and SNOWFLAKE inspired!

Grab a cup of hot chocolate and enjoys 100's of FABULOUS mantels!

Happy Holiday Hugs,
Tara

"Its Beginning To Look A lot Like Christmas"

2010-11-27T19:25:00.000-08:00

My friend Emily is the QUEEN of decorating. I tell her all the time that she needs to start a blog so we can borrow her ideas. I guess getting paid to decorate other peoples homes keeps her super busy. Thankfully she shared some pics of her beautiful Christmas decor. Enjoy!!!

I LOVE that her tree has lots to say.....

SWOON!!! This entryway says come on in and NEVER leave!!

Every inch of her kitchen is decorated with just THE perfect amount of Christmas love!

LOVE the lighted packages and look in the background...

NOEL!!!

We will start our decorating tomorrow. Cannot wait to see how all my bloggie friends will be decorating!
Hugs,
Tara

Pumpkin Pie...Preschool Style

2010-11-21T06:28:00.000-08:00

Bug's class had their Thanksgiving feast this week and everyone in the class was asked to bring a dish. We were chosen to bring Pumpkin Pie!

As I looked down the list of food items, I noticed that everyone was being asked to bring finger foods, like turkey slices rolled up, grapes and cheese cubes. I wanted to figure out a way to make Pumpkin Pie more 4 year old friendly. That's when I remembered these...
I bought a mega sized package of these at Party City, so that "Bug" could take ranch in her lunch. (Yes, I had to ask the 20 something guy for the jello shot containers, before he could figure out what I was looking for...giggle! )

Lined those little dip cups up....

Grabbed the melon baller and dipped out a portion for each of our lil preschool friends...

Quick visit with my computer and pumpkin pie becomes pumpkin pie dip!

Put our Pumpkin Pie Dip in baggies with a few Scooby Doo Graham Cracker Sticks. I'm thinking that's how the pilgrims ate theirs, right?

The teachers were thrilled and said it's the first time they had an entire class eat pumpkin pie. We will SO be serving Pumpkin Pie Dip at our Thanksgiving Feast!
Have a blessed holiday!!
Hugs,
Tara

Head on over here for more fun!

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things...

2010-11-20T18:42:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things about getting together with my friends is talking about all the new products we've tried. 320 Sycamore is hosting her own lil FAVORITE THINGS PARTY. Its like sitting down to lunch with our bloggie girlfriends and chatting about all the things that make the world go 'round!

HERE'S WHAT I'M LOVING...
Tyler Candle Company's New Hand Lotion!!!! The Kathina Scent is the smell of heaven in a bottle. When I put it on my hand's I can smell it alllllllll day long. FABULOUS.

Frito's Lightly Salted Corn Chips!!! Frito's are great for so many dips but WOW does the salt overpower the flavor. Thankfully, someone over at Frito Lay agrees.....their Lightly Salted Fritos are DIP PERFECT.

Speaking of dip. I cannot get enough of Sabra's Roasted Red Pepper Hummus. In the words of Dora, "Yum yum yum yum yum, ¡delicioso!

Kenra Blow Dry Spray!!! One lil spritz and all the flyway's in my hair are gone! I just spray it on my hand and work it through my hair and my hair is shiny and slick and it smells DELICIOUS!

My CAbi Fringe Vest!!! I love that it goes with everything in my closet and it makes me feel SASSY when I wear it!!!

Ok, don't tell anyone but sometimes, as a mom, I don't always get a chance to sit down and eat breakfast. Thanks to Luna Smores Bars, I can make it through the morning without my head swimming around in hungry lala land!

What are YOUR favorite things??? LINK UP and share with all of your bloggie friends!

Hugs,
Tara

BOOoooooooooootttttsssssss!!

2010-11-02T21:07:00.000-07:00

WOW, where did October go? Finally, today it was as fall-like as we have seen this season. (as I type this I realize we will be in shorts again in 2 days but I am for now, I'm living in the moment!!) I voted today and FINALLY got to wear my new boots!!!! Sqqquuuueeealllll with DELIGHT!!!! Aren't they THE cutest!!!! This season is all about tall boots with straight leg jeans, tucked in and a lil bit of the over-the-knee-socks peaking out of the top. I LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!!!!! (Hello, Target!! Thanks for helping me look trendy with your stinkin' cute over-the-knee socks!)

Halloween was a many week affair for us, starting with a totally 80's birthday party!
Like, OMG... am I the only one who grew up in the 80's that thinks its crazy that there was an 80's costume section at Party City? I so miss my crimping iron.... A bad hair day's best friend.

The girls went to a Monkey Themed birthday party at the Science Museum. Bug LOVED the dinosaur bones....Baby K loved the cake!

Halloween in our neighborhood is always an EVENT!! This year they had a trick-or-treat parade. Baby K stayed home with me to hand out candy and Bug and Daddy did their first parade. SO FUN!!

We are so excited that fall is here and we are ready for some cold weather fun! What are y'all up too?
Hugs
Tara

Ahoy Matey---the shirts are ready for Daddy-Daughter Day!

2010-10-05T12:01:00.000-07:00

Someday, I really am going to learn how to sew. Until then, Heat and Bond to the rescue!!! Tomorrow is Daddy-Daughter day at "Bugs" preschool and since its a Pirate Theme, I decided to make them matching shirts!

Cute, huh? I just did the Heat and Bond thing, with different pieces of fabric, cut out the shapes and ironed it on.

I cannot wait to hear all about their special day together!!
Hugs
Tara

If You Give The Girl's A Popsicle....

2010-10-04T21:31:00.000-07:00

This is my life. Thanks be to God!!!
Hugs,
Tara

"The best vitamin for making friends: B1”

2010-10-04T20:24:00.000-07:00

I'm having a lil trouble falling asleep asleep, so I picked up the old computer and started reading my favorite blogs. (one of the number one things they tell you in insomnia class NOT to do...the computer stimulates your brain...blah...blah)
Anyway, I came across a REALLY beautiful, colorful and happy blog called Whatever. Meg is a photographer and a mommy and really fun to read. I'm totally in love with her post about vitamins!! After visiting Africa, she learned of the need for vitamins for the children living there. We are so going to help! Tomorrow I will be taking 'Bug" to the store to buy some vitamins to send to Meg and her friends in Africa.
Vitamins are a REALLY big deal at our house. She reminds me every morning to give her a vitamin. She never forgets and she loves to talk about how healthy the vitamins help her feel. It's one of our daily moments that I live for and cherish, SO much. She is going to LOVE picking and sending vitamins to other children so that they can be healthy. Meg's moment will forever shape our moment because now when we taking our vitamins, we can talk about our faraway friends taking their vitamins. A lesson in giving that will last a lifetime...every time we take our vitamins.
Hugs
Tara

Arrrrrrrrrrrggggggggg!!!

2010-10-03T08:54:00.001-07:00

This Wednesday is Daddy Day at "Bugs" preschool and the theme of the day is Pirates!!! I'm on the search for a quick and easy "costume" idea for Daddy and Bug to wear to their big day! :) (another moment when I start daydreaming about the Silhouette machine I'll be asking Santa to bring me);)

Anyway, I'm thinking I will make them some matching t-shirts and then Bug can wear her black tutu and some striped tights. Here are some of my inspirations...

Lovin' this cute lil t-shirt design from at Pirates Coveonline

Super cute shirt from zazzle.com!

Super Cute Pirate themed crafts from artistshelpingchildren.org

Any ideas you have for Bug and Daddy's pirate day, let me know.
Hugs,
Tara

Do you rotate your kids toys?

2010-09-26T14:48:00.000-07:00

It's like Christmas in September!!!! I intended to rotate their toys every month but it ended up being around 3. I am enjoying hearing the girls squeal about their "new toys!" It's messy right now but this evening, I will pack up what is currently on their shelves and replace them with the toys that have been in storage. The lack of clutter in the playroom has been FABULOUS. Im TOTALLY loving this plan.

Hugs,
Tara

Little Pumpkin Baby Shower!

2010-09-18T21:21:00.000-07:00

Last year, I hosted a Little Pumpkin Baby Shower for my fabulous neighbor, Rashida. It is SUCH a fun shower theme for this time of year! I did some research and then executed a fun and fabulous plan!

I ordered these ADORABLE invitations from Candles and Favors.com and matching favors tags too!

Made this cute little diaper wreath following Crafster.orgs Diaper Wreath Tutorial I used a double wire wreath form from Hobby Lobby and blue and brown ribbon that I weaved around the diapers. (The preemie diapers from Dollar General are perfect for this project!) The possibles for decorating this wreath are ENDLESS and its SUPER easy!!!

I followed Katydidandkid’s Banner Tutorial to make Baby David's banner!

My house was already decorated for fall so the Pumpkin theme fell right into place. (I found this little bib in the dollar section at Target. The had really cute lil pumpkin bowls but as usual, I forgot to take pictures of the food.)

I set up a little inspiration and advice station. Each guest had a piece of card stock to write on. After the shower I turned it into a little book and gave it to the mommy-to-be.

I LOVE fall and cannot wait to see Rashida and David's lil pumpkin turn ONE!

We will NEVER forget! God Bless America!

2010-09-11T14:08:00.000-07:00

We love Tom and Jerry!

2010-09-10T19:11:00.000-07:00

Bug and I have a little routine where we watch a few episodes of Tom and Jerry, before we read books. In the episode we watched tonight, there is a fireworks scene that ends with an American Flag. This is her favorite part..... "Mommy, watch for the air-i-can flag....See, there it is!" Insert her HUGE grin here. Tonight she had another observation that made me giggle. "Mommy, if you tie my hands to a candle and complode me, we can watch fireworks all night long and then you and daddy can put your hands together and catch me!"

Is this a dream or is my little angel really THIS sweet?? Thank you God for my life! :)

Hugs,
Tara

"Falling for Fall!"

2010-09-10T13:53:00.001-07:00

OK, can you see me right now? I feel like the chick on those old "OPEN OPEN OPEN!" Mervyn's Commercials...I am SOOOOOOO ready for hot chocolate and pumpkins and soup and knee high boots and....

House of Hepworth's Dryer Duct Pumpkin...

Brown Paper Packages SUPER CUTE Candy Pumpkin Bracelets...

Lyndsey's Craft Spot's Halloween Subway Sign...

and I am TOTALLY SWOONING FOR Sweet Something Designs' Mantle...

I love anything the girls can help me make, like these TP Pumpkins...

A Pumpkin and a Princesses' Halloween Candy Jar

Timbeeeerrrrrr Pumpkins!

.....if only is wasn't 95 degrees outside. I think Ill turn down the ac, brew up some hot tea and get decorating! How are you kicking off fall at your house?

By the way, "Bug" is looking for a "french fry bean Halloween cookie recipe" If you have one handy, please send it to me. ;) Her first soccer game (after the one and only "meltdown practice") is tomorrow morning. Wish me luck, PLEASE!
Hugs
Tara

"The M says MMMMMMMM"

2010-09-07T20:37:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is day 2 of preschool and we are all ready to go. We baked the muffins for "M" day tonight. She is getting SO great in the kitchen.

She asked for the "exact same lunch as last time mommy." So, I packed it up with a few surprises like a flower shaped sandwich and a "M" lunchbox love note. I am having a BLAST with her lunches and made it tonight, while I was making dinner. FUN!!

It's been raining allllllll day here today, which is a welcome change from the 106 degrees we have had for the past month. Our second soccer practice was cancelled. Bug is now a member for The Amazons. (Try explaining to a 4 year old that an Amazon is a lady warrior. Our coach and his wife are very well educated. I guess they just couldn't live with a team called "The Popsicles" or "The Princesses.") Anyway, Bug wasn't as excited about her first practice as I thought she would be and I was TOTALLY not prepared for how to handle her "soccer practice meltdown." She was NOT very excited about the way the shin guards felt with her pink cleats. (She LOVES the pink cleats) She was NOT very excited about how tired she got. I was NOT very excited when she laid down in the grass and started crying and begging to go home to watch Tom and Jerry. (Clearly, we have spent too much of our 106 degree summer, in the house.) I decided to give her some water and encouraged her to jump back in to practice. She was NOT at all happy with that plan. Instead of "catering to her fit," I decided to take her soccer ball and join in on the practice. YES, I was spending the entire time wondering how in the world a "good parent" would handle this situation. YES, I wanted to sit down with her and cuddle her. Since I didn't have my "Perfect Soccer Mom Manual" handy, I decided to keep on "practicing." Thankfully, she decided to join me and afterwards in the car, she said she had fun and wanted to "practice more tomorrow." I look forward to seeing how all of this pans out. I'm thinking I may have a VERY girlie girl on my hands. She LOVES everything about ballet and tumbling BUT her preference for a Scooby Doo lunchbox throws me off a little bit. Being a former soccer playing, "tom boy" this will be very interesting parenting moment, for sure! Either way, we are committed to this season and will follow through on that commitment.
Where the hell is that Perfect Soccer Mom Manual" when you need it? Probably in the same place as the "Wife That Never Gets Tired Manual" My husband is insists that one exists ;)
Hugs,
Tara

First Week of Preschool

2010-09-06T12:33:00.000-07:00

Actually, our first and second week are only one day. WOW, what an emotional rollar coaster. THANKFULLY, all went FABULOUS!!! I followed the advice to make her first drop her off a QUICK process, before she had a chance to get upset about me leaving and it worked great. I, however, didn't handle it very well....the tears started flowing before I got down the hallway. (Note to self. Always wear sunglasses on the first day of school.)
"Bug" ate every bite of her of her lunch. We sat down and "took her order" at dinner, the night before, and then I packed it up the night before.
This Fit and Fresh Lunch System I bought at Target was a HUGE helper for packing her lunch. It has a flat ice pack that fits in the center to keep her food cold and then the small containers fit in on top. Perfect for her Scooby Doo lunchbox. Wednesday is her second day of preschool. Its "Wear Your Favorite T-shirt Day." Bug wants to wear the princess t-shirt Pepaw bought her in Galveston. Funny, she has tons of cute t-shirts but that is her favorite. I LOVE it! (The bummer part is that when daddy was painting this weekend she brushed up against the wall. Favorite t-shirt now looks like ratty old paint shirt. She wants to wear it anyway. Ugh..one of those mommy moments where you have to grin and bear it!) They have also asked her to bring something that starts with the "M" sound. Bug has decided to bring Muffins. I love that the things that start with an M conversation has her pointing out all the "M's" she sees. So exciting to see her mind at work. I love this mommy stuff!!
Hugs
Tara

"Organizing is what you do before you do something, so that when you do it, it is not all mixed up."

2010-08-28T19:56:00.000-07:00

I am very excited to report that I have been spending the last 3 months on a new job adventure. It stems from the pledge I made to myself, when I found out I was pregnant with little girl #2, to be more "girlie." Its like nothing I thought I would ever be doing and I LOVE every minute of it. As soon as I get some free time I want to tell y'all all about it and start sharing TONS of tips that I have been learning!! My new job required me to set up a home office, which is SUPER ORGANIZED (I promise, the post is coming soon...it's THE most organized I have ever been in my entire life) In the process of all that organizing I had to sacrifice our entire, craft and extra toy storage.

Here is a lil hint of why losing that space is SO worth it... SWOON!!!!!!

Tonight, I was digging through my VERY unorganized alternative, so that Bug could do some painting, and thought to myself. I have GOT to get this organized. Lo and behold, this evening I came across this FABULOUS and helpful post from House of Grace!
It's perfect!!! Just like her family, we do all of our crafting and painting and coloring in the kitchen. Its the PERFECT spot. I will have to figure out where to put all the kitchen items, I currently have in my cabinets, BUT I am SO up for the challenge. Go spend some time at the House of Grace blog. She has TONS of fabulous organizing and decorating ideas and healthy cleaning tips too.

I have been thinking about building my own shoe shelves in my closet...cause asking the hubby to do it is WAY too easy. I was VERY thankful to find The Hand Me Down House's post on how to build basic shelves. Ill be trying this in the next week or so. Wish me luck. ;)
Hugs,
Tara

“Pure love produces pure nonsense.”

2010-08-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

Our world has been full of SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO much happiness around here!!
Bug and Baby K have been playing TOGETHER much, much more....

Bug is about to start her FIRST season of soccer. We were both thrilled to see that PINK cleats are available. (back in the ice age, when I played there were black with white stripes or white with black stripes..)

This week also kicked off Bugs second year of ballet. She LOVES her teacher and was excited to learn that one of her favorite friends, Emmy, is in her class this year. (A bonus for mommy too because that means I get to bond with her mommy each week)

Baby K had her 18 month checkup and did fabulous. The nurse asked her to stack blocks and pick up Cheerios...THIS was her favorite part of the check up. She also said her first full sentence, "Dendall, where u you???" (Kendall, where are you?)

We went to "Meet The Director Night" at Bug's preschool and I am SOOOOOO excited for her to start, next week. I think she will really love it. We meet her teacher on Monday AND she finally gets to find out what color the walls in her classroom are....enquiring minds have been wondering for a week.

Enjoy your weekend and all those fabulous lil' moments with your lil' ones!
Hugs,
Tara

“You can never have too many aprons or too many memories.”

2010-08-28T11:27:00.001-07:00

I was checking out Toddler Week over on Envy My Cooking and saw this fun lil give-away for Mommy and Me Aprons. Bug and I love too cook together and she LOVES for our aprons to match. I entered their contest, drop in and enter yourself too!

"The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows."

2010-08-21T21:44:00.000-07:00

Bug starts preschool in a week in a half (yes, that makes my lip quiver and my eyes well up with tears) Since this is my first go-around I have lots of questions. I'm confident that most of them will be answered during, meet the director night and meet the teacher day.(right? insert nervous smile)

Ok, so I'll admit. I've been laying in bed at night wondering, what to pack for lunch??? My sweet girl is very independent, but she still needs help opening a fruit snack. I am THRILLED to have found Wendolonia's Lunch Box Ideas post! Not only did she present LOTS of options, but she even has cute packing ideas AND she opens the packages for her little man and pours them into silicone cupcake wrappers. LOVE IT!!!

I found this info helpful too!
Another FABULOUS lunch packing blog!!!

We have already started, as "Bug" calls it, "practicing preschool" I try not to giggle when she holds up her hand and waits for me to say her name, before she asks a question. (she is so stinkin cute and she is still my baby...I may need therapy before this is all over) We are going to practice eating out of her new lunch box, starting Monday.
Speaking of Lunch Boxes....my precious lil bow wearing, dress up playing, princess, chose a Scooby Doo lunchbox. REALLY??? She passed over the princesses, Hello Kitty and even a cute monkey box, for Scooby Doo. (She and her daddy watch it together and she was THRILLED when she saw that lil van shaped box. Insert her car screeching sounds here....giggle. :)

Any advice for "Bug" or for ME as she takes this big step is appreciated. I still can't grasp the concept of dropping my BABY off and letting her go inside that big church building, ALL BY HERSELF!!! And, she's only going 2 days a week....kindergarten may just be the death of me. ;)
Hugs
Tara

"Here's Your Sign"

2010-07-08T18:47:00.000-07:00

We have been SO busy this summer, I haven't made time to post or blog surf. Today I saw this baby and I am IN LOVE!!!!!! Mandi over at Tidbits from the Tremayne MADE it and I think its THE coolest idea! If I find the time, I know exactly which song lyrics I will use and just happen to have THE perfect blank spot on our bedroom wall to hang it. MANDI you are SO creative, I LOVE IT!!!
Hugs,
Tara

"Hello, again. Hello!"

2010-06-21T12:43:00.000-07:00

Hey there Blog friends. The super crazy busy month of June is here and I have been running around like a chicken....
Anyway, my VERY creative friend Jennifer just started a blog and I realized when I became her VERY FIRST FOLLOWER, that I hadn't posted in awhile. (You will want to become her next followers, wait until you see what she can do with a cake!)
Here is a little photo wrap up of how I've been spending my month...

My beautiful and thoughtful husband took me out for our 5th wedding anniversary!

While the hubby was at school working on his MBA, Pepaw and the girls and I headed to a festival called, Taste of Addison.

Baby K learned how to say, "CHEESE!"

"Bug" had her very first, dentist appointment. She handled it like a champ and had no cavities!!

"Bug" had her first dance recital! She was amazing!! This was my first experience as "back stage mom." Being in charge of seven, 3 and 4 year old's that had to wait 2 hours for their first performance was interesting. Thankfully I brought, crayons and coloring pages, apples, crackers and fruit loops. In the future, I will bring the portable DVD player and a movie. The girls has a hard time being away from their mommy's that long and REALLY needed a distraction.

"Baby K" attended her very first, Sonic, Happy Hour. She LOVED the Cherry Limeade.

We took the girls to a Veteran's Memorial on Memorial Day. We want to make sure our girls know about all of the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
We were surprised to find our friend Josh on the traveling wall. His beautiful daughter, Olivia was born just 2 months after he was killed.
We were so honored to be able to have our girls leave flowers and a flag in his honor. I was so touched in that moment, where my family was together and totally safe, that so many people were hurting and missing their loved ones. God bless our troops and the families who love and support them. Because of the brave men and women who are willing to be away from their families and the brave men and women, who are willing to let their soldiers be away from their families, we get to breath the fresh air of freedom. We are so blessed by America's heroes.

My hubby and I celebrated our birthday, which just happens to be on the same day. LOVE IT!! Did I mention his anniversary/birthday present to me, yet?

Oh, just a FABULOUS adult only trip to Playa Del Carmen...
Off we went and it was FABULOUS!!!

We went with our fun, friends The Whitley's!

Relaxed on our SWIM UP BAR PATIOS! Yes, I'm talking walk out of your suite, roll off of you patio and splash!!! you are in the pool. LOVE IT!!!

Shot a scene for the Bachelorette! We felt like we were on television. We had an anniversary dinner, right on the water. It was so amazing. If you are looking for a fabulous get away with your hubby, The El Dorado Seaside Suites is an amazing location. The service was top notch, the rooms were fabulous and the food was amazing!! (oh, and I love my babies with all of my heart but there were NO KIDDOS....it was WAY relaxing!)

2 days after we returned we hosted "Princess Kendallrella's 4th Birthday Beach Ball!" I'll post all the fun details for that bash, soon!

Last week, the light of my world, turned 4! (where does the time go??)

This past weekend, we celebrated Father's Day at a family reunion. Whew, its been a crazy month, but we had LOTS of fun. What have you been up too? ;)

Hugs,
Tara

Need a lil inspiration?

2010-05-24T21:33:00.000-07:00

Stephanie from Hope In A Boy's World, posted some REALLY inspiring words on her blog! So honest. So encouraging. So wonderful. I am thankful that I read it and felt compelled to share.
Hugs,
Tara

LOVE!

2010-05-24T20:48:00.000-07:00

This weekend we celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary!!

There really are no words to express how thankful I am for the beautiful human being that the Lord chose for me. Thank you God for blessing me with such a strong, supportive and loving husband AND for the beautiful blessings that came from our union.

Daddy had to go out of town for his MBA studies. (I think its SO sexy that he is getting his MBA.) The girls and I continued the anniversary celebration (Bug kept calling it our "apartment celebration") with a trip to Sonic for Cherry Limeades. The girls LOVE to go to Sonic because seat belts come off and they get to roam around the car....

We went to a fun food festival with Pepaw!

Met my in-laws and our ADRORABLE nephew for dinner!

And when my hubby got home last night we watched our wedding video. My favorite anniversary weekend tradition! THIS HUGE grin, pretty much sums up exactly how I feel about my life. I am beyond blessed!

Hugs,
Tara

"When You Look at a Cupcake You've Got to Smile!"

2010-05-19T11:36:00.001-07:00

If you look up ADORABLE in the dictionary I am pretty sure a photo of THIS cupcake topiary will be included with the definition!!
How fun and unique. I love unique and if you can EAT the unique, its even better!! Visit Miss Prissy Paige for her cupcake topiary tutorial!!

Speaking of baking. I am loving this and this BAKING BIRTHDAY PARTY theme. I MUST keep that in the "to do" file, for when my angels get a little bit older!

ADORABLE!!!!!
Hugs,
Tara

"Dancing is like dreaming with your feet!"

2010-05-09T22:45:00.000-07:00

"Bugs" very first EVER dance recital is at the end of the month. Last week was class picture day. I'm just speechless as how precious she and her besties look all dressed up in their ADORABLE costumes. So PINK! So sparkly! So fluffy!! I love it!

Speaking of Tutu's, check out THIS FABULOUS birthday party!

I need to come up with a cute idea for a "costume cover-up." If anyone has any ideas, I would love to hear them. (This is all new to me since I was allllll about soccer, when I was a little girl.)
Hugs,
Tara

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!!!!

2010-05-09T21:34:00.000-07:00

"Bug" had her first non-toaster waffle today. My lil girl could not get enough! It was huge and she was picking it up and eating it like a sandwich. "No syrup, mommy. Just lots of whip cream."

I love being a mommy!! I am SO thankful for my beautiful babies and for the wonderful man that I get to share them with. Thank you God for my blessed life and my precious family.
Hugs,
Tara

My sister-in-law's "If I were a blogger," Mother's Day post!

2010-05-05T12:35:00.001-07:00

My sister in law is one of the fabulous "gift's with purchase" that I received, when I married my hottie hubby!! She is beautiful, smart, faithful, has an AMAZING singing voice is funny and one of the best listeners I have ever met. I got this e-mail from her today and thought I would share it with my fellow mommy bloggers!! (hopefully someday she will start her own blog..hint! hint!)

If I were a "blogger" this would be today's entry:

Last night during dinner, "E" begins to complain about stomach pain. After much coughing and carrying on at the table and in the bathroom, he finally felt better after a good vomit which after coming back to the dinner table, proceeds to tell us all about it. We instructed him to stop with the details and clean up after himself, which I am sure he thought he did to the best of his ability...I made a mental note to double check his work, but forgot. Big mistake. (Anyone have a pen and a sticky note?)

After I got the kids off to school this morning, I went in to said bathroom only to be blown away by the aroma of broccoli and stomach gunk. All under the lid of the toilet, the wall and the shower curtain. Seriously? He thought he got it all?

After cleaning up that mess, I found that Hershey (her dog) had been chewing on the pen I had just used to sign Mother's Day cards for my mom. I'm sure he enjoyed himself, and promptly threw it all up. I guess I am thankful he didn't chew the cards?! Honestly, I wanted to open the door and let him loose but quickly remembered we had him micro-chipped so he would make it back eventually. How weird he would chew up the pen I had used to say how much I appreciated and loved my mom for all she has done for me. Dumb dog.

"E" said this morning he wanted another dog. I looked at him as if he had gone mad. "Another dog?" I said. "It's like having another kid in the house, I would rather have another kid than another dog." (Keep in mind this is an equal opportunity dog, but guess who has the most opportunity?)

I do LOVE these boys and like the dog, and know this is just one of the many joys of being a mom. There are so many awesome things that outweigh cleaning up gunk. I am blessed to have them in my life and wouldn't have it any other way, maybe not the dog.

So to moms everywhere, Happy Mother's Day, and hopefully your husband will clean up any "spills"...that is if they happen on Sunday.

KWY

Hugs,
Tara

Tis the Season of Party Planning

2010-05-03T19:32:00.000-07:00

I attend and host an INSANE amount of parties in the months of May, June and July. I have come across SO many FABULOUS party and gift ideas today. Here is a little sample of the fun...

Lulu and Junebugs Hair Bow Bouquets WOW, I thought using hair bows to decorate wrapped packages was a good idea but AS THE GIFT!!! I LOVE IT!!!

Mommy Topic's CANDY CAKE!!! The hubby LOVES M&M's and since we have the same birthday, I'm sure I will get at least one slice. YUMMMMMYYYYY!!!

OR
Mommy Topics Customized Party Plate Tutorial!! STOP IT!!! The possibilities are ENDLESS!!! These would even make a great hostess gift, right? LOVE IT!!

Ok, Ill admit it. I have a new "blog crush!" Do you blame me? After reading Rachymommy's "About" I've decided that she needs to be my next door neighbor. What a neat lady with FABULOUS ideas and anyone who loves 80's movies as much as I do MUST be cool!

Hugs,
Tara

"Bluebonnet Time in Texas!!"

2010-04-21T18:21:00.000-07:00

We stopped off at our favorite Bluebonnet field, today. That's how we Texans traditionally kick off spring!!

Don't worry, my Texas friends. "Baby K" picked that flower up off the ground. (Many Texans believe it's against the law to pick Bluebonnets.) Turns out my girls must just "know" that "law" because they picked a few flowers, but none were Bluebonnets. -insert big Texas pride grin, here-

Our friends showed up while we were taking pictures! Bluebonnets with your friends are REALLY fun!!

Spring is here, Y'all!!
Hugs,
Tara

"I always thought a yard was three feet, then I started mowing the lawn!"

2010-04-21T11:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts, lately. I have been doing TONS of spring cleaning and that's just too exciting to share with my blog friends. -wink-

"We" have been doing lots of work in our yard. Translation, I wanted a bunch of bushes removed from our crazy landscape and hottie hubby, did the leg work. The great news about that is that means he's been running around without his shirt one. Woo Hoo!!! That's always a good thing!

Here are daddy's lil garden helpers. (I love that "Bug" had to put on her "garden boots" to work in the yard. Taylor Swift would be so proud of her dress and cowboy boot look!)

I think "Baby K" nibbled on every garden tool!

Ok, before and after time. It's so funny how you will live with something for years and then have one of those moments when you realize. That would look so much better gone. Case in point, these 2 HUGE purple bushes that have been "hiding" our front door. (I forgot to take a 2 bush "before" but you get the picture, right?)

WOW, what a difference! Now you can see my front door that REALLY needs to be painted. The nice family that we bought our house from had a professional landscaper plant the entire front yard BUT the wife didn't like it. So her hubby pulled it all out and started over. (Can you imagine having a hubby THAT patient?) Anyway, there are three layers of all sorts of plants and bushes in front of our house. WAY too busy for us, so we plan to pull it all back to about a layer and 1/2.

I have been finding LOTS of inspiring garden ideas, that I hope to add to our landscape...

Like Bobbypins boardwalk's, monogrammed milk can. TOO CUTE!!

And Generally Creative's Chalk Pots.

How about EVERY little detail that Tracy's Trinkets and Treasures added to her patio!

I'll post more before and afters, as we make things happen. I do look forward to showing you the "after" for my Craigslist chairs. That are going to look so wonderful in our new, LESS BUSY , front yard.

Hugs,
Tara

Perfect Party Plan!

2010-04-13T20:23:00.000-07:00

Friday night I hosted a party at my house and had 15 of my favorite girl friends over for a night of fashion, wine, food and fun.

Now, I'm not much of a bragger BUT, I am bragging when I say, I hit a food HOME RUN at this party. The only thing left on my food buffet was 6 celery sticks....EVERY SINGLE BITE of food was consumed. That has NEVER happened to me before, and we entertain A LOT! I LOVE hearing, did you make that? whats in this? I promised that I would post the menu on my blog.....If only I had remembered to take photo's of the food. (sigh)

- A wooden tray with sliced, strawberries, sharp cheddar cheese slices and Cracked Pepper and Olive Oil Triscuits. (those crackers are THE BOMB!!!!)

- Carrots and celery with Kraft Cucumber Ranch. (Yes, the cucumber ranch DOES taste better!)

- A romaine lettuce salad with kalamata olives, feta cheese and chopped tomatoes. Toss in some OLIVE GARDEN salad dressing, right before your guest arrive. (yes, they now sell bottles in their restaurants and everyone LOVES it!)

- Erin's Black Bean Dip. (I cannot tell you how many compliments I get on her dip and its GOOD FOR YOU!) I don't have the exact measurements, because I watched her make the recipe and didn't write it down.
Erin's Black Bean Dip
One can of black beans, rinsed and drained
Half a can of mexi-corn, drained
Chopped cilantro
Chopped jalapenos
Chopped Tomatoes
Chunked Avocados
Limes (the juice keeps the Avocados from turning brown)
Mix the black beans and corn together, stir in cilantro and jalapenos, add some black pepper and a little salt. Put it in the fridge to marinate for awhile. 20 minutes before your guest arrive, chop and de-seed your tomatoes, cut avocados into small chunks and squeeze fresh limes over the top. Add to bowl and lightly stir. (you dont want to stir too much, because your avocados will get mushy) Serve with corn and blue tortilla chips!

-Mini crock pot with lil smokies in bbq sauce. (everyone loves those things and since they are small, you don't feel guilty eating them, right?)

CD Kitchen's Bacon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
I used their recipe as a guide but I used 4 packages of fresh mushrooms and 12 ounces of cream cheese. The stems from 2 packages of the mushrooms and that amount of cream cheese made enough stuffing for all 4 packages of mushrooms. Here is my version of the recipe, it made LOTS of mushrooms! I also made these in the morning, put them in the fridge and popped them in the oven, once my guests arrived.

Bacon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
12 ounces cream cheese, softened
An entire package of bacon, fried and crumbled; reserve fat
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
4 packages of mushrooms, stems removed
The stems from 2 packages of mushrooms, finely chopped
Directions:
Cook the bacon. I poured off almost all of the fat before I added the onion and stems. Saute onion and mushroom stems in bacon fat until tender. Mix crumbled bacon, onion and stems with softened cream cheese until the mixture is workable. (I did this like I make my meatloaf, with my hands. It was MUCH easier to work with.)
Stuff each mushroom and place in fridge until you are ready to bake. Bake at 350degrees F for 10-15 minutes. Finish under the broiler just until tops are golden.

6 bottles of wine. Now, I am not a wine drinker SO even though I had a list of suggestions, it still took me 45 minutes to find 6 bottles of wine.
A. because they don't display wine by brand (like they do with beer...yes, my gauge is beer, don't laugh at me.)
B. they don't have them in alphabetical order.
Doesn't it just make sense to have all the Kendall Jackson wine in one section and the Robert Mondavi in another?? I mean REALLY??? And whats up with this whole, red wine in the rounder glass thing and white wine isn't the same as blush and don't buy pink wine. Ahhh, my head is spinning!!! In my world, wine should not be this difficult. Since I'm not a wine drinker, I'm thinking no one in the Wine Industry cares. Ok, glad I got that off my my chest. :)

Anyway, I WILL serve this spread in the future, cause it was ALL good and there were NO leftovers. I love that!!
Hugs,
Tara

"Christ has not only spoken to us by his life but has also spoken for us by his death."

2010-04-02T14:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter to you and yours!

"Mirror, mirror on the wall who's entryway are you making look tall."

2010-03-22T19:50:00.000-07:00

I just saw All Thing's Thrifty's post called White White Love for Kallie. She went on a home tour and posted this (and tons of other fabulous) photo's....I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE HOW THE MIRRORS LOOK IN THIS ENTRYWAY!!!

I have a beautiful HUGE buffet in my entryway (it really is my favorite piece of furniture in the house) that is standing below 12 feet of BLANK wall. Look how those mirrors reflect the light from the window!!! Look how they make her entryway look HUGE!!!! I must find a way to create this same look without spending what I assume was LOTS of money on those beautiful mirrors.

I LOVE A CHALLENGE!!!
Hugs
Tara

What Cha Got Cookin! Deviled Chicken

2010-03-22T19:01:00.000-07:00

We had Cooking During Stolen Moments, Deviled Chicken for dinner tonight! It was YUUUUMMMMYYY, quick and easy!

Day one of meal planning (and actually executing it) was a success!!!
Yeah, me!
Hugs
Tara

The (snowy) Second Day of Spring in Texas!!! and my meal plan too

2010-03-21T16:39:00.000-07:00

This morning we woke up to TONS of snow. Very rare in the middle of March in Texas! We bundled up and built snowmen, had snowball fights and lots of fun.

I've caught myself in another receptive food rut. SO, I thought I would try to PLAN AHEAD and make some decent meals for my family. Thanks to the fabulous moms who link up too I'm An Organizing Junkie's Meal Plan Monday, I was able to find lots of yummy recipes to try. Wish me luck and feel free to send me any yummy recipes that you and your family LOVE!

Deviled Chicken
Healthy Mac and Cheese
Salad

Salisbury Steak with gravy
Baked Potato Chips
Salad

Grilled Chicken Breasts
Crock pot Beans and Rice

Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Salad, Green Beans

Hamburger Soup

I also want to try this recipe for Make Ahead Breakfast Burritos. I've seen the recipe online before but have never frozen eggs before. Ill let ya know how they turn out.

Hugs,
Tara

"Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors for you where there were only walls”

2010-03-20T18:39:00.000-07:00

Back in January, I came across Starter Home To Dream Home's beautiful family room and fell in LOVE with her shelves...

I thought they would look FANTASTIC above our kitchen table.
Mikael was even kind enough to send me an e-mail with her shelf details...
"I always heard that you need to have all the pictures in the room hung at the same level so it creates a nice line that the eye can follow. I hung my shelves and pictures along my other wall all on the same height as my mantel. That way, the eye can easily follow everything around the room, it really does work! We do have 9' ceilings so I did hang them a bit higher. The lowest shelf is 57" from the ground and the second shelf is 20" above the first one. I think it worked out just right." - Mikael

How exciting...my ceilings are 9 feet too!!! Her measurements worked perfectly for us!! I bought theses picture ledges at Ikea literally 6 months ago. FINALLY, our fabulous "Uncle Eddie" came over today and hung them for me. I AM GIDDY!!! I LOVE the way it looks. I think it makes the wall look longer, don't you? I'll be filling them with photos and decor tomorrow! Perhaps Ill even take a photo of the SNOW that is falling, right now. Its the first day of spring and snowing in Texas.

THANK YOU so much Mikael for the inspiration!
Hugs
Tara

"We adore chaos because we love to produce order."

2010-03-14T20:23:00.000-07:00

Getting all of our closets organized and clutter free has been my main focus for the past month. My goal is to get rid of the non essentials, gets things in order, store as little as possible on the floor AND label as much as possible. I saw these "trash cans" at Ikea for $1.99 a piece and thought they would be the PERFECT way to achieve my goals. I decided to use chalk board labels I found at Big Lots so I can change them, whenever I need too. First stop, Baby K's closet. (Since she's only one, her closet hasn't had a chance to get too messy, yet.)
UGH!

Ahhhhh, so much better!

Chalk Board labels ROCK!!

Just a side note: We keep the girls shoes in their bottom dresser drawer, which is THE best way to keep shoe clutter under control. (A fabulous tip I learned from my sister-in-law!) It's "Bugs" first stop when we get home and we ALWAYS know where her shoes are. These shoes are waiting for Baby's K's feet to get bigger. ;)

I did this to her closet over a month ago and it still looks this great. I love that the "cans" are opaque enough that I can tell there is something in them but it still camouflages the clutter.

Another FABULOUS organization tip for these "trash cans," from Jennifer at Minor Details."

Happy Organizing!
Tara

"Here's Your Sign"

2010-03-13T21:34:00.000-08:00

If you have been looking for a fabulous "vintage sign" tutorial, you will LOVE Lemon Tree Creations' $1 Welcome Sign The possibilities are endless and I have an idea for 3I want to hang in my kitchen!!!

Hugs,
Tara

"Ideas can be life-changing. Sometimes all you need to open the (cupboard) door is just one more good idea."

2010-03-11T20:36:00.000-08:00

I have LOTS and LOTS of blank wall space in my house. (stemming from my fear of not knowing what to hang where...)
Anyway, I ADORE! LOVE!!! and totally DIG these FABULOUS Cupboard Door Picture Holder's from The Creative Crate!
They are so cute my fear of hanging stuff on the walls, may be a thing of the past.
What do you have hanging on your walls?????
Hugs
Tara

"Style is a magic wand, and turns everything to gold that it touches”

2010-03-09T19:15:00.000-08:00

TODAY I received a VERY KIND AND SWEET comment from Diane from In My Own Style.com. I discovered her BEAUTIFUL site last night and believe me it is SUPER FULL of INSPIRATION!!! INSPIRATION!!!! INSPIRATION!!! Diane, where have you been all of my blogging life????

Look at this adorable DESIGNER PILLOW!!
These delightful QUOTE FRAMES!!
LOVE these PRECIOUS PEN CUPS
Her daughter's sweet KITTY CAT that just happens to be sitting in the middle of her AWESOME STUDIO OFFICE!
And my FAVORITE (because I REALLY want one) made it all by herself BANQUETTE!!

I also learned that Diane wrote a decorating book that I just bought at Amazon.com!!

I am so thankful for all of Diane's inspiration and that she is kind enough to share it with us.
Hugs
Tara

I have a BLOG CRUSH!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-03-08T21:13:00.000-08:00

Don't worry, you don't have to tell my hubby cause I'm thinking about waking him up to tell him myself.

I think Gail at My Re purposed Life has one of THE MOST SASSY COOL blogs EVER!!! She is the QUEEN of thrifty creativity!!

I am swooooooonnnniiinnnngggg over My Re purposed Life's Triple Chair Bench!!!

Isn't' it THE coolest idea ever and wouldn't something like this look SO great in my (yawn....stretch) boring eat in kitchen. This bench yells.... lets get cozy and eat something yummy!!!

I saw this hall tree on Craigslist the other day and thought it would make a great bedside table for my, super small, guest bedroom.

But Look at THIS Gail's Hall tree, has a shelf, takes up less space but still provides a mirror. Exactly what I was looking for. I am SO INSPIRED!!

I am SOOOOOOOO inspired! I love it!! Gail YOU ROCK!!
Hugs
Tara

Organizing is what you do before you do something, so that when you do it, it’s not all mixed up.

2010-03-02T11:59:00.000-08:00

I jump started my spring cleaning and am continuing my (never ending) journey to get ORGANIZED!!!

I'm not the only one that recycles gift bags, right? I've been cramming them into a box, under a guest bed, for awhile and decided I wanted a better place to store them. I headed to Home Depot and found a "Giant Storage Hanger" in the "garage organization" section for $2.98. Bought some of E-Z Anchor screws....and baam!! Now all those gift bags are hanging in my guest bedroom closet, where I can see what I have AND I have extra storage space under my guest bed.

Ok, I know. Its not very exciting. What is exciting is that we have had SUNSHINE and warm weather this week. I went strolling in one of my favorite downtown shopping area's and took some decoration, inspiration photos....

This hand painted photo says, He gives us wings so we can fly!" Isn't it precious?

The same store had lots of these chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. She spray painted old light fixtures and hung BIG Christmas balls and beads on them CUTE!

I love this idea for a nursery. They hung a lamp shade from one of those hanging light kits and then put a vintage looking dress on top. So cute.

They used a basic hook to hang it from the wall. How cute would this be with one of those decorative shelf brackets they sell at Hobby Lobby?

Ok, back to organizing. I've been busy this week getting our outgrown baby clothing and toys ready for DIVINE CONSIGN!!! Its a fabulous event that 2 great ladies host twice a year, here in Plano, Texas. I hope you have one of these events where you live. Its a fun way to make some money and help other mom's. This sale has gotten so big, they actually have to limit the amount of items that is consigned each season...to 70,0000. Tomorrow, I'll be waiting in line with my 2 favorite DC friends, so we can shop, shop shop!! Fun!

Have a great weekend!
Hugs,
Tara

Spring is nature's way of saying, "Let's party!"

2010-02-22T12:17:00.000-08:00

It it 38 degrees here today and we are all a little bit chilly. Brrrrrrr. Some of us are looking for a place to curl up and stay warm.... (I love how his brother is waiting for that warm spot, too.) And other's of us are putting on our spring accessories and patiently waiting for it to be warm enough to go out and celebrate...
"Bug" is VERY ready for flip-flop and Crocs weather...
Snow is in the forecast for tomorrow... which I am sure we will greet with open snow angel arms, but any time spring is ready to come to visit. We are ready!!!

By the way.. look who made his move, while I was typing. LOL

Hugs,
Tara

So Many Projects.... So Little Time!

2010-02-22T07:28:00.000-08:00

I've been meaning to share my friend Heather's super cute calendar and child's art display ideas. Heather works crazy hours as a restaurant manager. To make sure her hubby and precious little boys always know what's going on, she made this adorable chalk board calendar with a board and some chalkboard paint.I think the tall board looks so cute and no one at her house will ever miss an appointment. ;)
On the other side of her cabinet, she cut another board the same length and covered in in cork board. Doesn't all of B Man and Baby H's artwork look so cute!

Meanwhile, I made my first ever purchases on Craigslist. Aren't these chairs going to look SO cute in my front yard? I got them for $20 and cannot wait to paint them RED! I bought this headboard for $20 and cannot wait to shabby it up for our guest bedroom.
I'm not crazy about the shell. If anyone has a suggestion for covering it up, I'm all ears.

I bought this ADORABLE Princess Carriage at Home Goods and cannot wait to turn it into lamp for "Bugs" upcoming purple bedroom!

I am so ready for spring and the warmer weather so I can get out in the garage and get to work. What are you working on?
Hugs,
Tara

"Not on one strand are all life's jewels strung."

2010-02-15T08:11:00.000-08:00

I LOVE hand stamped jewelry and was excited to discover that Centsational Girl is having a fun give away, for some fabulous hand stamped jewelry from The Vintage Pearl!

I am CRAZY about Crescent Moons and I'm totally in love with this adorable charm

How adorable is this? I love wearing my the name of my precious angels around my neck. (especially when it's handmade by another stay-at-home mommy!)

Hand stamped baby spoons!!!!!!! It does not get any sweeter than that!

Give Centsational Girls FABULOUS site a visit and enter her give away!
Hugs
Tara

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-13T18:43:00.000-08:00

I hope you and your loves are having a fabulous, snuggle filled weekend!
Hugs,
Tara

Let Its Snow!! Let It Snow!! Let It Snow!!

2010-02-11T12:30:00.000-08:00

It's been snowing alllllllllll day and we are all VERY excited!!!

Snow in our part of Texas is really uncommon, especially the 6-8 inches that fell today! I love how bright it is at night after it snows. Looks like the snow will stick around for one more day. FUN!! FUN!!
Hugs
Tara

Rest In Peace Captain Harris

2010-02-10T19:40:00.000-08:00

My husband and I LOVE to watch The Discovery Channels, Deadliest Catch. Its this amazing show that follows a bunch of crab fishermen as they do their thing. It blows us away how hard these guys work, so that we can have yummy crab to eat. We are sad to hear that Captain Harris, one of the stars of the show, has passed away. He was a rough and tumble guy AND a loving father whose entire world revolved around making sure his sons were successful and happy. To celebrate his memory, I thought I would post his recipe for

Captain Harris' Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
36-40 medium white mushrooms
8 ounces cream cheese/spreadable cheese, flavored, softened
2 cups chopped cooked crab meat, snow or king crab
1/2 cup grated cheese (can be smoked cheese)
DIRECTIONS:
De-stem and scrape out the caps of mushrooms. Spray with oil. Bake mushroom caps at 350* for 5 to 7 minutes to soften.
Prepare the crab meat stuffing: Break up and coarsely chop the crab meat. Place in a bowl and blend with cream cheese. Once thoroughly combined, spoon crab mixture into mushroom caps and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Broil 6 inches from broiler until melted and lightly browned.

Hugs and prayers go out to his family and friends.
Tara

Hot Pink and Zebra Bedroom LOVE!!!!

2010-02-10T12:23:00.000-08:00

We are in the planning phase of Bug's purple room remodel so I have been visiting HGTV's, Rate My Space section. LOOK AT THIS BEDROOM!!!!! Isn't it just so diva, and girley and SO SUPER SASSY!!!!!!!
Since the room is so small, her mom used Ikea furniture to do the whole room! LOVE!!! LOVE!!! LOVE!!! Her desk and wall decor. (Kinda makes me want to be a teenager again.)
I am swooning over this dressing area. Cool lights, 3 mirrors, shelves with trays for her jewelry and drawer space for all her girley stuff. SO FUN!! Look up there at those photos! She has them hanging on a wire curtain cable. SO clever!! The pink is called Tutti Frutti (S-G-100) by Behr from Home Depot. She said it took a coat of grey primer, and three coats for the pink to cover evenly. The Zebra comforter is from Wakeupfrankie.com and the pink pillows, throw blanket and boxes are from Target. The bed is Ikea's Aspelund and the shelves and drawer units are Ikea's Besta.

I think this might be THE ultimate room for a teenage girl. I think I need to make a quick visit the the fountain of youth and then ask my dad for a ride to the paint store. I LOVE IT!!!

Hugs,
Tara

"Love is the greatest refreshment in life."

2010-02-08T08:34:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day is in one week!!! PARTY HEARTYand cover your entire world with hearts and kisses!!!Isn't this THE cutest do DIY party, ever?

Fuzzy Wuzzy Wreath

I LOVE My Insanity's
ADORABLE VALENTINE CARD IDEA when she discovered his school wouldn't allow them to bring any sweets. Flowers for the girls and pencils for the boys! SO creative!

Yummy handmade treats

Cute Candy Love

Big hugs,
Tara

What Cha Got Cooking? Bite Sized Potato Skins

2010-02-07T12:25:00.000-08:00

Tonight we went to a Super Bowl party and since I was craving potato skins, I thought it would be fun to make mini party sized version YUMMY!!!! They were are HUGE hit. You know the kind of food hit where the tray was empty in about 15 minutes and even the guys wanted to know how I made them. I used this recipe but adapted it for big bite sized potatoes. YUM

My supplies: I bought those little potatoes at Walmart and thought they would be perfect for bite sized potato skins.

Wash em up and pop them into a 400 degree oven for 20-30 minutes.
While they are baking, fry up a package of bacon. (we only eat turkey bacon at our house so my hubby was excited to see "the real thing" in my skillet.) After its nice and crisp, drain it on paper towels. Invite your favorite "bacon bit maker" to cruch those babies up nice and small! I've always wondered why they tell you to pierce potatoes, before you bake them. This guy literally exploded, as I took the potatoes out of the oven. There's my answer. Ouch.
I used my melon baller to scoop out the potatoes, it worked perfectly. Turn the oven up to 450 degrees. Turn the potatoes skin side up and brush them with canola oil. (I couldn't find my pastry brush, so I just poured a little oil in my hand and rubbed the potato in my palm. Bake them for 10 minutes. Flip potatoes over and rub with canola oil and then bake for 10 more minutes. Yum! Cover that crispy goodness with cheese and bacon bits and then either cover them to take to the party or broil them until the cheese melts. YUMMY!! Serve them with chopped chives and sour cream! They were the perfect snack for the kids and the adults. I will be making these again VERY soon!

Whats your favorite bite sized party dish?

Hugs,
Tara

The "Kids Pants Hanger Thing" Dilemma!

2010-02-04T13:07:00.000-08:00

My, beautiful, amazing and precious 3.5 year old is allllllll about dressing herself. I LOVE her independence but some of her wardrobe choices have been quite interesting. (this morning she insisted on wearing red Ariel socks with her pink and blue heart outfit because "mommy it doesn't have to match because I love Ariel!") To help her a little, I pair up as many matching outfits that I can and hang them at her level in the closet! She LOVES choosing her own outfit. My dilemma is that I have a limited amount of these "kids pants hanger things" that hang on a regular hanger and I need more.
It sounds like a great excuse to go shopping except for the fact that more outfits would need more "kids pants hanger things" that hang on a regular hanger. SO, does anyone know that the official name of the hangers is AND where I can buy some??? Thanks so much blogging mommy's!
Hugs Tara

WOO HOO!!!! (I know...its the little things in life!) Look what I found! The "Kids Pants Hanger Thing" is actually called a "pant hanger with a drop." I was close, right? Anyway, I have 200 of these bad boys coming to my house! I realize that 200 is WAY more than I will ever use but I am THAT dedicated to getting our closets even more organized. What to do with the extras.....add them to future baby shower gifts. I might just have to do a lil' blog give-away. -grin- Somebody remind me to do a blog search for hanger crafts. LOL
Hugs,
Tara

"The Stars at Night Are Big and Bright!"

2010-02-02T11:57:00.001-08:00

The past couple of evenings, Ive been spending my blog time reading this super fun blog! Katie is just so cool and super talented in the decorating arena. (gotta love somebody who loves her life as much as I do!) Obviously, Katie's love of tin stars rubbed off on me because today I was at Joann's Fabric store and they had this little cutie for 70% off!! -big grin-
I looked at it for awhile and something just wasn't jazzing me about that star. I decided it was the light colored flower petal looking things in the middle. I thought, "I can fix that." Took a lil' hike over to the paint department and 10 minutes after I got home she was done!

My new tin star looks perfect in my kitchen, don't ya think?

Thanks for all the STAR inspiration Cowboy Phraeseolo!!
Hugs,
Tara

Baby K's Winter One-derland Birthday Party!

2010-01-30T20:50:00.000-08:00

The birthday girl is dressed and ready to party!!This is the sign that greeted all of our guestsWe have 12 foot ceilings so I decided to hang the snowflakes from the light fixtures, using fishing line and a hole punch.

A couple of $1.00 rolls of wrapping paper, served as fabulous table runners! I used these sparkly snowflakes from Hobby Lobby as "scatters" on the tables! I love sparkle! The snow girl candles greeted guests as they arrived! A few sweet thank you's for the present table. I Love Popcorn Papa, they have popcorn in tons of colors and flavors! (yes, the lollipops are standing up in Playdoh..works perfectly!) The Hot Chocolate Station was very popular! (I got the mugs at Ikea for 59 cents each. Those cute dishes holding the toppings and the drink pot are actually little plant pots from Ikea, too.) Big Sister LOVED the hot chocolate Don't you just want to hug this precious cake? Stacey over at Icing On The Cake (I call her THE goddess of cakes) shares how she created this sassy lil snowgirl and her adorable cake pop friends. "Bug" loved the Tic Tac noses.The craft table was a HUGE hit. The kids made candy snowflake necklaces, painted wooden snow girls, made marshmallow snow girls and decorated foam snow girls. They LOVED it!! So creative! If you are looking for a great indoor party activity for little ones, My Toon TV is fabulous. It takes a child's photo and animates them on the tv AND it shows them dancing on the tv screen. I got it on sale for 20 bucks at Target and they LOVED it! For party favors, I had a local bakery make these HUGE snowflake cookies! I put them in some pink polka dot bags and tied on these cute little mittens! I had so much fun planning and preparing for Baby K's birthday party!!

Happy Birthday to my precious little snow angel!
Hugs, Tara

"A sister is a little bit of childhood that can never be lost."

2010-01-27T20:59:00.000-08:00

Took the girls to Lowe's yesterday. The 2 people race car cart was a HUGE hit! They giggled and smiled like this for our entire visit. I LOVE my girls!!!
Hugs,
Tara

"I Might Even Be a Rock Star!!" (Hannah Montana Party Ideas for my Sister-In Law)

2010-01-22T17:59:00.000-08:00

THIS is my beautiful niece and in March she turns 6! (Wow, does time fly) Her mom sent me a text today announcing that she wants to have a Hannah Montana Birthday Party and asked if I could help her find some ideas. WOO HOO!!!!! I love parties!!!

I'm not a big fan of the cutesy theme "overkill." I like working with one big theme piece, like this 5 feet tall Hannah Montana Scene Setter (Party City for $5.99) and then coordinating the decorations with the colors. (What a cute back drop for photos!)
Last year, Bug and I attended Rylee's super cute Hannah Montana/Rock Star Birthday Party! I love the hot pink zebra theme...throw in a little purple and you've got a party!!!
For the party activity, Rylee and her friends made a music video. With 6 year olds, I think it would be fun to have a trunk of rock star clothing and props and do a dancing fashion show.

How cute would it be to line the "runway" with these Wallies Chalk Board Sheets and let the girls decorate them!
Miley's super cute dressing room is the perfect inspiration for party colors. (How much fun would it be to paint an old pair of roller skates to look like Miley's?)

Need a lil Zebra inspiration? The SASSY & CREATIVE Mommy, over at Together Is Our Favorite Place threw her daughter THE coolest, most creative and fantastic zebra & hot pink party EVER!!!! There is so much inspiration on her blog. WOW!!

LOOK at this table setting from Personally You Parties!!!!! I'm thinking it would be cute with multi- colored microphones, instead of flowers. My sister-in-law has a HUGE dining room table that would make this the perfect "centerpiece" for the whole party!

Party Food: I have read that Miley/Hannah's favorite food is Chinese. (not sure if that's good for a 6 year old audience) Perhaps serving her other favorite's, in cute little Chinese Food take-out containers, would be fun. She likes Starbursts, Gummy Bears, Peach Rings, Dots, Lucky Charms and Sugar Cookies.

Party Favors: Our Hobby Lobby always has Hannah Montana goodies in the clearance section AND The Disney Store has Hannah Montana Party Favor Sets (for 4) on sale for $5.99!! They also have party sets for 8 on sale for $5.99! Another alternative is cute little bags with nail polish and lip gloss. (2 items my niece REALLY loves!) OR how about these cute lil monogrammed mirrors...

More Rock Star/Hannah Montana Party Inspiration:
Aspired Kreations
Designed To Be Sweet Invitations
I'm loving these musical note cupcakes, too!
How about these ADORABLE Microphone Cupcakes from The Celebration Shoppe!!

Baby K's "Winter One-derland" Brrrrrthday Party: Project Phase

2010-01-21T17:27:00.000-08:00

Baby K's Winter One-Derland birthday party is next weekend. I've been working on some "gender issues" that our snowmen were having. I have been lucky enough to find some super cute snowmen at deep discounts BUT this is a girlie party and we want "snow girls."(sorry Frosty)

This ADORABLE little guy (which is made up of 3 paper boxes, like this) was the packaging from a Christmas gift. TOO CUTE!!

I got these guys for 80% off at a fabric store
I must admit, this is the first time I have ever used spray paint....it took me 15 minutes to figure out how to get the lid off. -tee hee- Look, I didn't even get any on the sidewalk!

After $2.33 worth of pink polka dot felt, some snowflake stickers and a $4 can of spray paint, I introduce you to our brand new SNOW GIRLS!!!!!

This lil' cutie will be the centerpiece of our food table.

She will be directing our friends to the hot chocolate bar. (Perhaps we should replace her shovel with a wooden spoon.)
On the cake table you must go!

When I started hanging snowflakes I thought they would look cute on this candle stand. Then I added my scarf and a white candle. Then I remembered that I have these in 2 different sizes. Hello little snow girl candle. You need a hat, some rosy cheeks and some friends and we will be good to go! Do you like her carrot nose? I peeled a baby carrot down really small and stuck it in with the end of a toothpick.

Project Brrrrrttthday is underway!
Hugs,
Tara

Happy Happy Birthday, Baby!!!!

2010-01-20T12:59:00.000-08:00

One year ago today my precious little angel was born. It really does seem like it was yesterday, except for the fact that my life is so much more enriched than it was a year ago. I remember every minute of her birthday.... waking at 4:30 to drive to the hospital. We were in such amazing moods. God's most blessed moments will do that to ya. I remember listening to all of the doctors and nurses chatting and greeting each other. (It really was more like a party than a surgery) I didn't even realize that Dr. Richards and his son who assisted him (what a magical moment) had started my c-section. I asked the nurse if he has started and he said, "I'm standing right here, you can ask me." :) At that moment I heard my beautiful angel cry for the first time. That beautiful sound. That miraculous, life changing moment that only God could invent. Thank you God SO much for my precious babies. They brighten every moment of my life and have made me a better person. I am so in awe of the way that Mommyhood makes me feel, that I often fall to my knees to praise God for choosing lil ole me for the job.

Happy Birthday, Baby K. We love you SO much!

"A dream is a wish your heart makes!"

2010-01-19T13:45:00.000-08:00

"Bug" has mentioned twice that she wants a Cinderella Birthday Party this year.
Thankfully, we already have the attire covered!

I'm a bit of a planner so Ive been researching Cinderella Party Ideas...

Check out this fun party!!

How about this cake!

A castle and MUCH more!

Cute invitations!

Glass Slippers! and even more Glass Slippers! FUN!

I love creative people and am so thankful to "Blog-land" for all the party sharing! Kinsley's first birthday is tomorrow and her party next week. This mommy stuff is so much fun!!!
Hugs,
Tara

The Queen of Before and After...My new favorite blog!

2010-01-19T13:07:00.001-08:00

I stumbled upon a super cool remodeling blog called Starter Home To Dream Home and I LOOOOOOOOOVVVVVVEEEE Mikael's amazing talent. She is THE QUEEN OF BEFORE AND AFTER photos!!!!! She designed the most amazing and beautiful fireplace EVER......
I almost woke the husband up when I saw the shelves she has hanging to the left of her fireplace. I have been so wanting that exact same look in my kitchen dining area. I bought the shelves from Ikea 2 months ago but could not figure out how high to hang them. They have been leaning in the corner of my room for WAY too long. I sent an e-mail to Mikael and she was kind enough to send me the measurements. WOW, I love the Queen of Before and After photos!!!! Thanks to her photo, I'll be able to show the hubby what I've been talking about. (He keeps asking me why I want those long shelves in our kitchen!) I am so giddy. Thanks Mikael!! I'll post a photo as soon as my shelves are up.
Hugs,
Tara

A Purplicious Bedroom for our Purple Lovin' Princess!!

2010-01-18T20:13:00.000-08:00

"Bug" asked us this week if we can paint her bedroom purple. Purple and pink just happen to be her favorite colors.... if you meet her she will ask you what your favorite color is and then tell you, "I like all colors, but pink and purple are my favorite." We have decided that for her 4th birthday (in June) we will paint her room purple. That has lead to lots of discussion about the shade of purple we will go with. SO, it's time for some PURPLE research!!!! Here is some inspiration to get me started.
WOW, what a wedding dress!!

This purple is Behr, Soft Heather, 680F-4

This room gets my vote for THE cutest little girls room EVER!!! My favorite part is the sweet lil hook with tennis shoes hanging on it. So clever!

I'm sure we will find the perfect shade to make our lil purple princess smile.
Hugs
Tara

"The world is but a canvas to the imagination."

2010-01-18T19:03:00.000-08:00

I am GIDDY!!!! EXCITED!!!! SQUEALING WITH DELIGHT!!! That one of the most creative and amazing people that I know has started a blog!!!!! Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to Icing On The Cake

Up until now, I have referred to Stacey as "The Cake Goddess" for her amazing creations.......

Now you can read all about her cakes AND the other fabulously creative things she makes!!! Yes, the blog world just became a better place to spend our free time!! I love it!!!

Hugs
Tara

Bracelet & Jewelry Organizer

2010-01-14T09:46:00.000-08:00

Over the holidays, we payed the greatness of Ikea a little visit!!! I picked up two of these little beauties...

One for it's intended use...A paper roll holder for all of "Bug's" art projects

AND one for mommy's arm art...

.

Hello little hoop earrings, no longer living at the bottom of my jewelry box...I'm sorry that I forgot about you. -Insert Deep sigh and a huge grin here.- All of mommy's bracelets and earrings in one place for just $5.99!! AND there is room for more, which means I have permission to buy more bracelets. I LOVE LOVE LOVE sassy bracelets!!

I'm no "Ikea Hacker" but I LOVE my lil discovery!

In case you are wondering...Yes, its the PERFECT size to be a ribbon organizer...back to Ikea I go.

Happy Organizing,
Tara

Click this image to go to Just Something I Whipped Up Monday! Its my first time to particpate in one of these fun blog day events and I am SOOOOOOO giddy!!!

Somebody tell my husband......

2010-01-12T22:35:00.000-08:00

THIS is what I would love to find in my little Valentine's Day shoebox. Do you think it will fit? -wink-

Loving the "Rednesday" Party over at Its A Very Cherry World!

I think I have nursery envy!!!!

2010-01-12T21:56:00.000-08:00

I just happened upon a really fabulous baby site called Spearmint Baby and while cruising around I saw Katelyn's nursery! I LOVE LOVE LOVE Katelyn's nursery!!

I LOVE her bedding!!! Its Harlow by Cocalo Couture

I LOVE her name banner!!!! and that her mommy posted the "how to"

I LOVE the little accents and the Banana Split Yellow walls!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE the year countdown frame that her friend made for her!

I love that her mommy even shared her inspiration nursery!

What I LOVE LOVE LOVE most of all is that the bedding also comes in big girl sizes! I'm thinking when it's time to upgrade Baby K's room, we may just have to turn to Katelyn's nursery for inspiration!!!

Love it!!
Hugs
Tara

Baby K's "Winter One-derland" Brrrrrthday Party: Planning Phase

2010-01-12T20:43:00.001-08:00

My precious little angel turns ONE in 2 weeks and I am VERY excited about her birthday party!! I have never thrown a birthday party in the winter months and I'm so excited about all the fun winter goodies like hot chocolate, soup, mittens, snowmen and snow flakes. It's such a cuddly time of year. I started shopping for winter decorations before Christmas and have also come across tons of FABULOUS after Christmas winter decoration bargains at Walmart, Hobby Lobby, Michaels and Target.

I found these Picture Perfect invitations on sale for half price at Butterflies and Bowties..... so cute!!!
The invites wording says: "It's a winter ONE-derland full of frosty fun! Come and celebrate at Baby K turns one!

For the menu we will be serving:
Chick-fil-a Nuggets and fruit for the kids, white chips & dips, "Snowman Soup" for the adults.
Hot Cocoa bar with mini-marshmallows, sprinkles and whipped cream!
I'll have to come up with some clever wintery names for the foods!

For the goody bags I bought cute little mittens at Target last month that I will ties to bags with snowflake sugar cookies from a local bakery!

Activities:
Build marshmallow snowmen
Paint some cute lil wooden snowmen I got on sale at Michael's for 20 cents each!
Make snowflake candy necklaces. (I bought the kits at Walmart before Christmas!)
Plug in the My Toon TV so the lil ones can dance and have fun. Disney's Choo Choo Soul has a Freeze Dance song that will also make for a really fun game too.

My friend Stacey, I call her The Goddess of Cakes! Will be creating another one of her masterpieces. I can hardly wait to see what she comes up with!

Thankfully there are tons of winter baby mom's that have provided some fabulous inspiration for Baby K's party.....

Everyday Celebrating

P is for Party

Celebrations At Home

Im Gonna Let It Shine's blog (I'm so sorry I lost the link to her blog this is THE coolest Birthday Banner idea ever!)

The Birthday Girl

More Winter-Onederland Party Links:
Birthday Party Idea's.com
Project Wedding.com
And of course from THE QUEEN OF BLOG LAND: Tip Junkie's Winter Projects
Winter Decorations
Let's Make Snowflakes!
Silver & White Favor Tins
Ice Lanterns
Doily Snowflakes
I'll post photos after the party!!! Happy Birthday my little snow angel!!!!
Hugs
Tara

“Enthusiasm is excitement with inspiration, motivation, and a pinch of creativity.”

2010-01-12T19:31:00.000-08:00

I kid you not, I was just sitting here writing thank you cards on my favorite notecards... (please don't look at my messy desk)

when I logged on to my blog and saw that Whitney over at Whitney Owen Designs gave Sassy Inspirations a little love on her blog! -big huge grin- THANK YOU WHITNEY!!!!

You may remember she is the inventor, designer, of the worlds coolest recipe cards!!

Now it looks like she's gone and designed even more super cute note cards...

AND THESE....(I might just pass out from excitement!)

I MUST MUST MUST HAVE THESE!!!! (hint to my beautiful sister-in-law that lives 2 minutes from a Market Street in Lubbock...perhaps you can stop by and pick me some up on your way to Dallas this weekend!)

It won't hurt my feelings one bit if you leave me and cruise on over to Wendy's site and hook yourself up with her fabulous new notecards!!! She's even got a lil Keith Urban playing on her site. (I met him back in the radio days and he is VERY yummy!!!) A lil note to my Lubbock peeps.. Whitney is an amazing photographer too. Whew, and I thought I had accomplished something when I made my first homemade pie crust.

Hugs
Tara

I love when Beautiful moments keep on being BEAUTIFUL moments!!!

2010-01-12T19:18:00.000-08:00

Obviously the photo at the top of my blog makes my heart melt every time I see it. I am madly, deeply, totally in love with my girls and their love for one another. Melissa Goldberg is the amazing GODDESS of photography that caught that moment on film. :)LOVE HER BUNCHES!!!!!
I was SO excited to learn that their photo made it into Melissa's "2009 Photo of the Year Contest" and even MORE excited when I learned they WON!!!! I am so thankful for all of our family and friends that took the time to vote. I will be posting a photo of our 16X20 canvas "prize" as soon as we get it. (Nothing better than a photo of a photo of your own kids, right? -giggle-) Melissa will be welcoming her first little angel into the world soon. I look forward to seeing the love for her little angel, come to life in her photographs!!! Congrats Melissa!
Hugs,
Tara

Wow, what a December!!!

2010-01-10T18:35:00.000-08:00

Whew, where did the time go? I cannot believe I went almost the entire month of December without any posts. We had a BLAST and did so many fun things; Holiday In the Park (Bug rode her first roller coaster and LOVED it!) The Rockette's Christmas Show, our very first cookie exchange, Baby K's first Christmas Eve Service, a fabulous Christmas with tons of family and friends, Bugs first trip to the Sweet and Sassy spa and an actual "night on the town" New Years Eve Celebration. (God bless my in-laws for watching the girls.)

2010 is in full swing and I am looking forward to every moment! Happy New Year, Y'all!!

"A child is a precious gift from God and baptism is God's gift wrapping."

2009-12-07T12:59:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, was Baby K's baptism! It was such a joyous event and she did such a fabulous job. As soon as daddy passed her to Dr. Oliphint, she gave him a huge grin. The entire congregation giggled when he showed her the water because it looked like she was ready to jump right in to the baptismal font. (I just learned that is what they call the bowl that holds the water.) Bug did a fabulous job too....except for the part where she tried to pull my skirt up in front of the entire church. (thank God for fast mommy hands) I am so grateful that Dr. Oliphint performed both of our daughters baptisms and our wedding ceremony. Seeing him hold our baby, moved me so much...he is such an inspiring man of God. I am thankful that God blessed us with such an fabulous preacher and am VERY thankful for my beautiful family!

Its Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas!

2009-12-03T20:09:00.000-08:00

There has been much discussion about this year's Christmas tree. Having a VERY curious 10 month old in the house and a real tree covered in decorations is a scary endeavor. We had pretty much agreed on a smaller tree placed high on the buffet in our entryway. THANKFULLY my hubby came to me with that lil boy that loves Christmas look on his face and said, "honey, I really think we should get a real tree. We can just put baby gates around it and all will be fine." I was VERY afraid that this was going to turn into an unattractive mess that would ultimately ruin the Christmas tree view, BUT there is no way I was going to disagree with a yummy smelling full sized tree.
Fast forward to this evening. We did get a smaller tree than usual and while I put the girls to bed, he took care of putting up and "baby proofing" the tree.

Yes, I am still laughing!!!!! I am sure "Bug" and I will can come up with a creative way to decorate our new "tree gate." (Perhaps this will become a new Christmas tradition at our house!) I am so loving my husband right now. He is THE sweetest man alive!!!!

Here are some other Christmas idea's I am LOVING....

3 WREATHS!!!!!!!!!!! I LOVE IT!!!!

Using SUGAR as snow!!! How cute is that AND I even have those exact same jars from World Market. Cute and I know "Bug" will love helping me pour the sugar! FUN!!

Subtle and fun! This is the PERFECT display for the bar in our family room!

Bug and I will be getting started on THIS as soon as we get the tree decorated.

Aren't these lil trees ADORABLE????

I love decorating for Christmas!!!
Hugs,
Tara

"The first fall of snow is not only an event, it is a magical event."

2009-12-02T10:57:00.000-08:00

We woke up this morning to SNOW!!! This is a very rare occasion here in Texas and even more exciting because it is Baby K's first time to see snow!!

THIS smile is worth jumping out of bed!!

We quickly got all bundled up so we could celebrate!

Baby K was in awe and really enjoyed seeing her sister jumping up in down!

Gotta catch those huge snowflakes on our tongue!

Love this photo of her running and catching snowflakes in her hat!!!

Its beginning to look a lot like.....

2009-11-13T12:01:00.000-08:00

Ive been doing a lil Christmas shopping and today I came across these lil beauties...........

STOP IT!!! I KNOW!!! How cute are these and what a wonderful gift this will make for all the Red Raiders in my life. Ok, so you either gettin' your guns up OR your wondering if the creator of these precious recipe cards thought of any other university. YES, but because I love my hubby so much, Ill just post the link to Whitney Owen Designs and let you check em out for yourselves. I bought the cutest stationary from Whitney's collection, the last time I was in Lubbock! Check out Whitney's Blog too...she makes some of THE most beautiful and creative invitations, I have ever seen. WOW!!

Last night I went to a holiday open house and bought Baby K her first Tutu!!!

As you can tell she LOVES it!!

I also got her 2 of these ADORABLE!!! PRECIOUS!! bibs!!!

A lil visit to Jen's site and I learned that she is a stay-at-home mommy to 3 little girls. LOVE THAT! Let me tell you why I love her bibs, first they are so stinkin' cute and original I almost want to wear them myself. Hello, the whole teething slobering, drooling scene just got MUCH cuter in our world. They are VERY WELL made and she uses a snap closure instead of velcro!!!!! As soon as I get a photo of my lil angel wearing one of her new bibs, I'll get it posted.
Just go ahead and get ready, if anyone gets knocked up soon, there will be a few of these precious bibs in your gift from me!

Check out this SUPER CUTE pilowcase from Custom Designs My Mimi.

I met her last night too. She's super sweet and has over 600 fabrics to choose from. I cannot wait to see the pillowcases she creates for my lil angels.

Happy shopping, yall!!!

Fall Fun!!!

2009-11-04T20:00:00.000-08:00

Fall is here and Thanksgiving is right around the corner soooooooo we are celebrating with crafts and yummy eats!!!

Today we made these super cute Hand and Feet Turkey Wreath

YES, the turkey's body is "Bug's" cute little foot and YES, those are the hand prints of both of my precious angels. I love it!!!

Tomorrow we will be making Make and Takes, Countdown Turkey!

Bug will especially enjoy this because she know that when all the feathers are gone she will get to see her grandparents and cousins!!! I think as we "pluck" the feathers we will put them in her suitcase to really get her excited!

We LOVE apples and I cannot wait to make Makes and Takes, Apple Prints

This weekend we will be making Bright Ideas, Turkey Cupcakes!!
My favorite part it the Starburst feathers.....finally a reason to use up the leftover Halloween candy!!!

Alphamom's ADORABLE and FUN Krispy Turkey Treats!

I love this time of year and all the fun crafts!!!! Be sure to let me know what you and your lil turkeys are making!
Hugs,
Tara

Football Field Halloween Costume

2009-11-04T19:17:00.000-08:00

The week before Halloween we were invited to an adult Halloween party. The hubby doesn't get really fired up about costumes so I had to come up with an idea that wasn't too complex. (that would explain the VERY homemade looking King Triton above.)

A couple of years ago I dressed up like a golf course for Halloween. I bought astroturf from Lowes (they sell it in the carpet section) and cut it in a long strip with a hole for my head. I glued some sand paper on as the "sand trap" and glued on some plastic golf balls. For my hat I glued a toy putting hole on a headband with the flag sticking out from the top. I carried the toy golf bag and clubs along for effect. (I so wish I had a photo, it was a cute idea.)

This year I decided to dress like a football field. A great idea because we both love college football and there are so many easy ways the hubby can match...ref, football player, coach, fan. I think this might be fun to do in the future and have the girls dress up like cheerleaders.

I originally cut a "dress" out of more astroturf from Lowe's but it was shedding all over the place and I didn't want to leave a trail everywhere I went. (not a good idea with a crawling baby in the house.)

I saw these really cool tablecloths that look like grass at Party City and thought it would be perfect and much cheaper. I cut a "dress" out of the table cloth and used white duct tape to make the yard lines. (They sell it at Lowe's) Stuck on pre-cut numbers and red letters to put Texas Tech and Red Raiders in the end zones. (MJ Designs)
I originally tried zip ties to hold the dress sides together but the tablecloth kept tearing, so I had the hubby just run big pieces of white duct tape up the sides. He basically taped the dress on me.

To make the goal post crown, I flipped a foam visor (also from MJ Designs) over and cut it into the shape of a goal post. The green socks and the hubby's ref shirt are from Dick's Sporting Goods The green wrist sweat bands are from Hot Topic.

FUN!!!

My friend that is dressed like a Bee needed a costume idea for her husband. I suggested he be a bee keeper. He found the hat on a bee keeper website and had Bee Keeper and his name embroidered on his shirt. Super cute couple costume idea.

Happy Halloween!

BOO!!!!

2009-11-04T18:57:00.000-08:00

"Bug" chose our costumes this year...Ariel, King Triton, Snow White and Tinkerbell

Halloween was lots of fun this year!! We did a pot luck thing that ended up really fun. I decorated our garage by hanging orange and black table cloths from the ceiling. (mainly to "hide" all of the tools etc.) I hung 2 orange tablecloths next to one another and taped on black triangles and a mouth for a huge wall sized jack-o-lantern. (I cannot believe I didn't take any photos.) We made chili, the neighbors made corn bread muffins, queso dip, nine layer dip a fruit tray and a salad.

Some fun foods for your Halloween Menu:

Family Fun's, Mummy Fingers

Hot Dog Mummies

Next year I think we will set it all up in the front yard cause I missed most of the trick-or-treaters. Boo.

The week before we went to EK's 3rd birthday party.

We love that she has an October birthday because it's a great reason to wear our costumes!! The party was a blast and there was even a candy hunt. (basically an Easter egg hunt with candy) Little Red Riding Hood's Mommy gave everyone a bucket with their name on it and sent the girls to the front yard for candy. THEY LOVED It!!!

"Milk's Favorite Cookie!"

2009-10-16T21:13:00.000-07:00

I'm not a big sweet eater HOWEVER, if there are Oreos in my pantry, I swear I can hear them calling my name. They taunt me......begging me to just have a few. My hottie hubby, loves to slip some Oreos into the grocery cart and watch me pretend that I don't notice. I honestly think he gets a kick out of seeing me try to fight my Oreo addiction. I LOVE Oreos!!!! (He was sweet enough to always have a bag of the mini ones in the pantry waiting for me when I was going through breast feeding HELL! That's true love, my friends.)

FINALLY, I have an excuse to buy some of those cute Halloween Oreos that taunt me everytime I go to the store. LOOK AT THIS!!!!!

I just happened to come across this recipe from Nabsico World (YES, the makers of Oreo have their own world!) Now the recipe is calling my name. How could I deprive my family of such a cute and yummy treat for Halloween. YUM!!! YUM!!! YUM!!!

The NabiscoWorld folks call it Pumpkin Patch Ice Cream Dessert. How could THEY not put the name in the title of their own dessert??? Let me help them out a little...
OREO Pumpkin OREO Patch OREO Ice Cream OREO Dessert much better! ;)

Ingredients:
22 Halloween OREO Chocolate Sandwich Cookies, divided
2 Tbsp. butter or margarine, melted
1 qt. (4 cups) chocolate ice cream, softened
1 pt. (2 cups) vanilla ice cream, softened
1-1/2 cups thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping
Decorations, such as assorted Halloween candies and decorating gel

Preparation:
SPLIT 17 of the cookies, leaving filling on one side of each cookie. Finely crush the 17 split cookies without the filling. Place in medium bowl. Add butter; mix well. Press firmly onto bottom of 9-inch springform pan. Stand 15 of the split cookies with filling around side of pan, alternating filling sides facing in and out.
SPREAD chocolate ice cream evenly over crust. Chop remaining 5 cookies; stir into vanilla ice cream. Spread over chocolate layer. Cover; freeze 3 hours or until firm.
RUN knife or metal spatula around side of pan to loosen dessert; remove side of pan. Spread or pipe whipped topping onto top of dessert. Using colored decorating gels, make pumpkin faces on orange filling on the split cookies around side of dessert and 2 remaining split cookies. Decorate as desired to resemble pumpkin patch with assorted candies and remaining split cookies. Serve immediately.

“It's not the years honey, it's the mileage.”

2009-10-16T13:18:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was my 20 year high school reunion.(ok, it was actually 3 weeks ago but I haven't had a chance to blog in awhile) There was no doubt in my mind that I was going to attend, I knew it would be a blast. I was RIGHT!!! I loved seeing all my old friends and how wonderful everyone still looks. I did run into an old "crush" and was surprised to see how short her turned out. Either I have grown since high school or a lot of the guys got shorter. (is that even possible?) He was still as sweet as he was back in the day. Thanks to Facebook most of us have been reunited in the past year anyway, but it was neat to all be in the same room again. As usual, I was having too much fun to take lots of photos, but we did get a few. Good times.

Little Pumpkin Baby Shower - Planning Phase

2009-10-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

I'm loving fall SOOOOOOO much that I decided to change the entire theme for the baby shower that I'm hosting. (Someone just needs to get pregnant so I can revisit the "She's About To Pop" Theme, any takers?) Since every one's autumn decorations are up I thought it would be the PERFECT time of year to have a "Little Pumpkin" themed shower. After all, I call my lil one's pumpkins all the time!

After seeing THESE invitations, I knew I had made the right decision. SUPER CUTE, right?

And THESE favor tags just sent me OVER THE EDGE!!!!
These cute little dudes will go on bags of roasted pumpkin seeds with a note that says, Thanks for celebrating Rashida's Little Pumpkin. David Noah will be "sprouting" soon!

The folks over at Plan The Perfect Baby Shower have these super cute Lil' Pumpkin Trivia Games. I think I'll follow their lead but incorporate some baby facts in there too.

The Pumpkin Lady has a FABULOUS tutorial for these ADORABLE Chalkboard Pumpkins.
I'm planning to paint baby faces on then and write out baby's name!

The FOOD ideas are endless.

Pecans.... Pears...Maple Balsamic Dressing!!!! Can you say Tyler Florence's Fall Salad???? MY MOUTH IS WATERING!!!

Pumpkin Spice Popcorn!!!!

We are having a traditional cake so i thought I would make a bite sized version of Better Homes and Gardens Harvest Time Pumpkin Bars.

AND Better Homes and Garden's Gingersnap Crumble Pumpkin Parfaits.

YUMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!

Hellga over at Craftster.org posted this fabulous tutorial for a diaper wreath.
I cannot wait to make the Little Pumpkin version.

I just made this SUPER CUTE Banner that Kathleen has posted on her blog. Cannot wait for the shower so I can hang it up.

I'll post photo's after the shower. Happy Fall Y'all!!!

"She's about to POP!" Planning Phase

2009-09-29T19:32:00.000-07:00

I am hosting a baby shower for our neighbor, Rashida. She's one of those really tiny ladies that really does look like she is going to POP, so I think it is the perfect theme for her shower!

I got a hint of the "she's about to pop" theme at a shower I attended last year. The party favors were cute lil' bags of popcorn with a note that read, "Heather's little bundle of joy will be popping out soon! Thank you for being part of her special day. We are so glad you could stop by to play!"

Then I saw THIS on Me and My Insanity's Blog

Popcorn, soda pop, lollipops!!! All sorts of fun "pops" to work with! If you are planning a She's About To Pop shower for someone expecting a girl you will LOVE her invitation idea.

Check out THESE invitations..

Since Rashida is having a boy, I decided to go with these invitations

The circles remind me of bubbles (who doesn't love to pop bubbles) and the colors match her nursery. I cannot wait to stop in to Popcorn Papa for BLUE POPCORN and I plan to use blue and brown Tootsie Pops!

I think I'll even have a little bubble wrap, so the guests can "make a wish and pop some bubbles for baby." Who doesn't love bubble wrap.

I think this Jiffy Pop Thank You idea would make a cute party favor too!

This is a super cute lolliPOP idea from The Craft Patch, that can be used as decor and a gift! I was planning on making a diaper wreath but may try to do a diaper version of these burp cloth pops.

I also LOVE this "cupcake" idea from Suzanne!

She took a snack cup and used it for the bottom of the cupcake. Then she took a baby washcloth and covered it. Inside she placed assorted baby items. For the icing part, she used a soft baby ball and wrapped diapers around it. Then took another washcloth and tied it around the diaper ball. She placed the ball on top. She used the lid to the cup as it's plate. TOO CUTE!!!

I plan to incorporate Donna Hay's super SASSY idea for the soda pop bottles!

Just wanted to share the shower plans. I cannot wait for everyone to POP on over and celebrate baby time!!! -wink- Yes, I had to go there.
Hugs,
Tara

"I've never seen a smiling face that was not beautiful."

2009-09-23T16:04:00.000-07:00

The fabulous folks at SEPHORA (I LOVE THAT PLACE!!!) treated Shanda, Kellie and me to a day of mini-pampering today!! They have some NEW fabulous express pampering options available that I cannot wait to tell you about AND they gave me some passes to give away. Stay tuned for photos, details AND a chance to win!
Hugs
Tara

Sara Sizzles: Fancy Schmancy Bisquits

2009-09-21T13:43:00.000-07:00

SARA SIZZLES!!!
Welcome to post #1 of Sara Sizzles. Sara is a former coworker that I just ADORED. She's one of those really neat people that has tons of interests and ALWAYS has a fabulous story to share. Sara also LOVES to cook. While we worked together she was always willing to share her recipes. Our listeners loved them and I know y'all will too! I am especially excited because Sara THE VERY FIRST contributor to my blog!! Woo Hoo.

Sara's Fancy Schmancy Biscuits
Make ‘em big to go with soup, or make ‘em bite-sized to serve with wine and cheese. Delish!

3 cups Pioneer Buttermilk Baking Mix*
1 ¼ cup milk (use whole if you can, but no biggie if you only have skim or 2%)
6 slices pancetta, chopped into about ¼ in pieces*
¾ cup Kraft Parmesan Cheese, kind in the green can
1 teaspoon Lawreys Salt*
2 tablespoons FRESH GROUND black pepper*
1/3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (optional, but makes them pretty)
Melted butter for brushing the tops (again, to make with the pretty)

Preheat your oven to 425˚
To start, toss the pancetta in a small nonstick skillet on medium high heat for a couple of minutes to crisp it up some. It will start to darken and curl a bit like bacon, but you still want it a bit soft. Remove from heat and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine Pioneer mix, milk, crisped pancetta, Parmesan cheese, parsley if you’re using it, salt and pepper in a bowl. CAREFULLY mix together, it’s really important when making biscuits not to over mix, as it will toughen the dough. Just mix until everything has come together and you don’t see anymore visible mix. The dough will be wet, this will give you moister, more tender biscuits that are stand-up-and-shout good.

Dip your fingers into some extra baking mix, and grab hunks of dough about the size right between a golf ball and a tennis ball and drop onto a greased cookie sheet, leaving at least 2 inches between each mound. Re-dip fingers after each drop to keep too much dough from sticking to your hands. Or alternately, if you are wanting to make hors de ouvres sized biscuits, you have two options. Either drop cherry sized pieces the same way on your greased cookie sheet, or grease a mini muffin tin and fill about 2/3 full. This gives them a pretty, smooth bottom that sits a bit better on a platter.

Brush tops with melted butter, and (if you really want to get crazy sprinkle with a little more Parmesan) bake for approximately 12 minutes for large biscuits, and 7 minutes for small, or until the tops are brown and everyone in the house is in the kitchen wondering what smells so good.

Serve hot or at least warm. Can be made up to 5 hours in advance and rewarmed in the oven or microwave for about 10-20 seconds.

*OKAY, NOW FOR THE FOOTNOTES!
I insist on Pioneer Brand. It’s simply the best baking mix ever, and it’s made right here in Texas. All their products are fantastic, and they have a booth at the State Fair every year. I think cream gravy out of a package is sacrilegious and bordering on child abuse, but theirs is the only kind I’ve ever used that tasted like mine and I wasn’t tempted to use as wallpaper glue.
Panchetta is an Italian style of smoked pork that is sliced very thin and is milder than bacon. You can substitute bacon in a pinch, but only use 4 pieces instead of 6, and drain it after cooking. THEY SELL PANCHETTA AT WALMART, it’s usually over by the cold cuts.
Lawreys Season Salt is one of my favorite things ever. Please don’t substitute. I know I’m starting to sound like Sandra Lee here, but brands really do make a difference!
Always, always, ALWAYS use fresh ground pepper. The flavor is so different, it’s more than just the hot black specks that preground is. Pepper actually gets hotter the longer it’s ground/cooked in things, so always grind fresh and always add your pepper last to your recipes!

"Greater Love hath no man than to lay down his life for his brothers." John 15:13

2009-09-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

Do you have a friend that has made you a BETTER PERSON, just for knowing them? That is who Josh is for my husband. This is the story of a TRUE American Hero. Josh was my husband's fraternity little brother and we are heartbroken that he is gone. I have a lot to say about Josh but right now, I think his greatness speaks for itself.

Captain Joshua S. Meadows, 30, of Elgin, Texas, died September 5, 2009, while conducting combat operations in Farah province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned to 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, based at Camp Pendleton, California.

He is survived by his wife, Angela Foster Meadows, his mother, Jan H. Meadows of Elgin, Texas and his sister, Erin Read Meadows of Monument, Colorado. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Read Meadows. He is also survived by his uncles, Henry E. Meadows, Thomas O. Meadows and John B. Meadows and their families, his mother-in-law, Debbie Foster of Midland, Texas and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Leland and Starr Foster of Sterling City, Texas. Josh leaves behind a host of family and friends whom he dearly loved.

Captain Meadows joined the Marine Corps on Sept. 28, 1996 and was trained as a Pilot UH-1N Qualified. He was promoted to Captain on July 1, 2006, joining MARSOC on May 28, 2009. His decorations include a Purple Heart Medal, Bronze Star with a combat "V", a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation, Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with bronze campaign star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with two bronze stars, Rifle Expert Badge (4), and a Pistol Expert Badge (4).

Captain Meadows graduated from Elgin High School in 1997 and joined the U.S. Marine Corps while he was enrolled in school. He was an Eagle Scout and earned his private pilot's license at the age of 16. Josh was also a member of Texas First Families, Sons of the Republic of Texas and Sons of the Confederate Veterans. He was listed as active duty in May 1997 and then reported to boot camp in San Diego. In January 1998, he enrolled at Texas Tech University and served as a member of a reserve unit in Austin, where he attended monthly drills and spent six weeks in the summer with his unit. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lt in December of 2001 and was designated a Naval Aviator in March 2004.

Josh met his wife, Angela, while they were both at Tech. Meadows graduated from TTU with a degree in business and was president of his Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He then was commissioned as an officer and attended a two-year program in flight school. During that time, Meadows was stationed in Pensacola, Florida and Corpus Christi. It was at this time that Angela and Josh married in Midland, Texas, the home of the bride and the former home of Josh's father's family. The Meadows moved to Carlsbad, CA where Josh was stationed at Camp Pendleton for more than five years and flew Huey helicopters. In November of 2008 Captain Meadows was assigned to a special forces team unrelated to flying. Josh and Angela are expecting their first child in a few weeks.

Josh and Angela were partners in the family ranching business with Angela's brother, Leland Foster and his wife, Starr. Josh and Angela were planning a move back to the ranch when his service to our nation was done. Josh loved the ranch and had the same love for the land and animals that he had for his country and the Marine Corp.

An accomplished Marine, Josh was very proud to serve his country and had been deployed overseas several times throughout his military career. In August of 2008, Meadows was the lead Marine Corps Huey helicopter pilot seeing action in the Gulf of Aden in an operation that prevented a pirate attack on the Gem of Kilakarai, a Singapore cargo ship. Marines with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, were deployed aboard the USS Peleliu provided aerial support and explosive ordnance disposal during the mission.

Everyone who knew Capt. Meadows considered him a friend. He was a devout Christian with a passion to serve the Lord. His friends described him as the kind of person everyone should strive to be, genuinely and effortlessly devoted to his country. Josh was described as "a man's man and marine's marine - no better friend. Whether he knew it or not, he was an example that those around him strived to emulate."

"Greater love hath no man than to lay down his life for his brothers." John 15:13. Meadows will always be remembered as a true hero who made the ultimate sacrifice fighting for what he believed in.

Services were held Tuesday, September 15, 2009, at 2:00 P.M. at the Midland Commemorative Air Force Museum, under the direction of Ross Funeral Home of Sterling City and Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home of Midland. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com Also, please visit obits.nctimes.com to leave condolences for the North County Times in California.

http://www.blackfive.net/main/2009/09/godspeed-captain-joshua-meadows.html

"The reason women don't play football is because eleven of us would never wear the same outfit in public."

2009-09-04T21:21:00.000-07:00

The college football season officially begins at our house TOMORROW!! I bought a SUPER CUTE Texas Tech door plaque a few weeks ago and plan to make this wreath to hang it in the middle of...

Isn't it SOOOOOOO cute!! For directions on how to make this cute wreath, visit The Long Thread. Thanks so much, Ellen, for the easy and cute idea!

I think Bug and I will tackle (tee hee) this one tomorrow while we watch the Tech game. Wreak Em!!!

Hugs
Tara

"Meow, Meow, Meow, Meow!"

2009-08-31T21:08:00.000-07:00

This evening there was a knock on the door from my neighbor asking if we were planning on coming outside to play. It was GORGEOUS outside. Finally cool enough that we could get out and play without worrying about the heat. FALL IS COMING!!! I love Summer but there is that certain point where its time to bid farewell to hot day after hot day after hot day and get outside and enjoy ourselves again. We joined our favorite neighbors and their kids and played for a good 2 hours. Wow, was it nice.

I guess it has actually been a little cooler for the past couple of days. I was just too wrapped up in my lost kitty saga to enjoy it. My sweet little Koal cat, that we adopted about 7 years ago, is always trying to get outside. He is an inside cat and doesn't have the first clue how to survive on the outside. Friday night he got out and was missing until Saturday night. That is just way too long for me. I walked the entire neighborhood, crying like a small child. He was my first "baby" and I just couldn't imagine not having him around. My husband and I adopted him when we were dating and he has been with us through all of our BIG moments.

He was there when we moved in to our first apartment, (always sitting in the window to greet daddy when he got home from work.) There when we celebrated our first holidays together. There when we got engaged. There when we got married. (I actually had to drive home to check on him before we left for our honeymoon.) He has slept in his cat bed next to me every night since we got him. (except for the first few nights after we brought his brother home...there were a few days of adjustment.) He was here when we brought home both of our babies. He is a special cat. His soft nature around my children is amazing. He just seems to know his limits and never crosses them. He is patient when the baby reaches a little too hard or when "Bug" plays a little too rough. He seems to know when I'm having a bad day and will give me the little, I love ya nudge.

Anyway, to some people it will seem trivial to get all worked up about a cat. I am thankful that he is back and was blown away at "Bugs" reaction to his return. She kissed on him and told him she was worried and missed him. WOW, she has learned to value the life of our precious pet. A lesson I wasn't even making a conscious effort to teach her. Once again, my precious little cat is here for another one of our BIG moments.
Hugs,
Tara

"Clothes make a statement. Costumes tell a story."

2009-08-22T19:25:00.000-07:00

The Halloween costume discussion is underway at our house. Bug has decided that she wants to be Ariel this year. The great news is that last year, about a week before Halloween, she decided she wanted to be Ariel. We already have the Ariel costume!! WOO HOO She really wants her baby sister to be Flounder. The Disney store does have a Flounder costume but I am afraid that it will still be too hot for her to wear it. Anyone with a cute Flounder/fish costume idea, I would love to hear it. Bug also wants Daddy to be Prince Eric and Mommy to be Sebastian. (wish me luck on that one... I'm hoping I can talk her into letting me be one of Ariels Princess friends)

Halloween 2008

Last year, as I expected, she changed her mind and went with the original plan MICKEY MOUSE!!! Minnie Mouse? No Mommy, I want to be "Mickey Mouse!" I admit, after seeing the ADORABLE Minnie costumes, I tried to convince her to be Minnie but she insisted on Mickey. The problem was that the Mickey costume was one of those stuffed, thick costumes and living in Texas, its still pretty warm at Halloween. We decided to "make" her costume, using her red and white polka dots shorts, from her Mickey birthday party and adding the accessories. I think it turned out pretty cute. I had purchased big white buttons to sew on her shirt she liked it better without. Yes, my child very much already knows what she likes and doesn't like.

Halloween 2007

Halloween 2006

"Other than a dimple in a cute little chin, What's more adorable than a toothless grin?"

2009-08-22T18:55:00.000-07:00

Today Baby K is 7 months and 1 day old! After months of slobbering and chewing, her first adorable little tooth has finally cut through!!!!!!

Front, bottom, left, middle.

Bug and I celebrated in the family room by rubbing her tooth and doing a little "new tooth dance."

Kendall's first teeth (they both came through on the same day) cut through when she was 7 months and 8 days old. Wow has my baby grown up!

We went to a baby shower today and both girls were FABULOUS!!! I don't usually take them to stuff like that, because I figure most of the mom's there are enjoying the time off from their kiddos. Hubby is out of town and I planned on skipping it but, Melissa, the guest of honor, encouraged me to go. My giggle moment came when Bug looked around the room and said,"Mommy, there are a lot of girls. here!" Her observations are priceless. I am so thankful to God for all the fabulous mommy moments!

Hugs,
Tara

Try Something New Post 2!

2009-08-18T18:46:00.000-07:00

Welcome to post #2 of try something new. I've set a little goal for myself to start trying new things..

I'm starting with new recipes.......

Last week it was the Oven Fried Chimichangas. Which were great and even better the next day. Yesterday I made potato salad for the first time ever. I know, even my husband was surprised when I told him I had never made it before. Honestly, Dickies BBQ makes such great potato salad, if I want some I just go get their's. A lil side note, I love Roland Dickey!! He is a super funny, good old boy that can cook like no other. Back in my radio days, he would cook for us once a week. I'll see if I can dig up some of his recipes, they are easy and quick! :)

I happened upon this recipe when I was checking my e-mail and didn't even read it before I made it. I just started peeling potato's and then started adding the ingredients. I was very surprised that it had ketchup in it but decided to stay with the recipe as it was. (I did refer to my Facebook friends on whether to use mayo or Miracle Whip) the majority said mayo. (We are not big Miracle Whip fans but my mother in law swears by it, so there is always some in our fridge for her visits.)

I thought it turned out ok. I asked my in home panel of judges.... Bug asked "can I have the potato salad without the salad part?" so she had plain potato's and loved them. The hubby said it was good, but suggested that I ask his mom and Aunt Cathy for their recipe. His favorite. I giggled when I heard from Aunt Cathy....they only use Miracle Whip. LOL!!! I should have known. When I get the whole recipe, Ill post it.

Meanwhile, my friend Kellie, who "never cooks anything." Came up with a super easy recipe for soup that I LOVED!!! She had some broccoli, cauliflower and carrots, she wanted to use up before the went on vacation. She boiled them in low sodium chicken broth and then she added 2 cans of cream of mushroom soup. After it cooled she pureed it. It turned out really yummy.

Hugs,
Tara