6 month pics...

Sorry, late posting this photo...

Here is our little man at 20 weeks. I am sorry, I am 5 weeks late on this one... but better late than never! He looks amazing, doesn't he?

Baby Updates and Coupon News...

Where the heck has June and July gone? I mean seriously!

Ryan and I have been very busy with our "Master To-Do" list lately. This list is 4 pages long of everything I could think of that we needed to do before our little boy arrives. My goal is for us to have it all done by the end of August, so we can concentrate on the baby shower, birthing classes, and football season! Go Bucks!

We are about half way done, but before you think "oh, that's good!" Let me just say that we haven't even STARTED the baby's room yet! YIKES! We hope to start that within the next 2 weeks. If you haven't heard, our nursery bedding is the Giggling Turtles from Gap (see below):
Could it be any cuter? We loved the navy and green colors - super preppy! Love it! My sisters have decided to go with this theme for the baby shower too. This turtle pillow shown last is the main decoration for the shower. And being the graphic designer that I am, you should see the invitations I designed. This little guy makes his debut on those too! Adorable.

Last night I decided to take all the baby stuff we already have out of the nursery since we will be doing work in there soon. I went through and organized it all, taking the tags off of clearance clothes I have already purchased, and just taking count of what I have already bought. Ryan about died when he saw all the clothes and Johnson and Johnson's I have bought. But he (being a typical guy), does not realize that the clothes were sized from NB to 12 months purchased ALL from the clearance racks, and the Johnson and Johnson's I pick up on sale and ALWAYS with a 1.00 off coupon- so I get bottles of lotion and baby wash for between .99-1.99 each! So I am actually saving us HUGE money.

Speaking of saving money, I must announce that I am now a CVS SHOPPING FREAK! I used to think CVS was a rip off since everything was so expensive, but then I recently discovered this blog: www.moneysavingmom.com If you haven't even visited, it's a MUST! Here I have learned about the art of CVSing and using Extra Care Bucks to get things for FREE or very little out of pocket. Check out this when you have time! It tells you all about how CVSing works. It takes a little math... but SOOOO worth it. I did my first trip to CVS this week and spent 9.96 out of pocket and got 6.96 back in bucks, which means that I really only have paid 2 bucks + tax for about 7 items! Love it! You gotta try it!

Besides this art of CVSing, I have become a huge coupon FREAK! I have also learned that places like Target and CVS will accept a store coupon AND a manufacturer coupon FOR the same item. Of course, whenever I try it the person checking me out says I can't do that, until I told them that I have spoken to their customer service reps and they said that Target WILL accept both coupons for one item. Example: Johnson and Johnson Head to Toe Baby Wash was 2.99. I had a Target coupon for $1 off and a Johnson's Manufacturer Coupon for $1 off. The guy said he could only accept one and I explained to him about their customer service and he didn't know consumers could do that. He didn't say a word after that and went ahead and let me use both, getting it for .99 cents. If you have any trouble with this, call the manager. I also found their coupon policy online that I will keep in my purse for such occasions.

More baby news...

I am going on 25 weeks tomorrow. Two more weeks and I will headed into my third trimester! Oh my goodness! Time is flying! I have my glucose test tomorrow, which I am PRAYING for a good test. My sister has had gestational diabetes with both her pregnancies and I really don't want to have to go through that too. It's not serious, it's very common... but I am asking God that since I was so sick for 7 weeks with morning sickness, that maybe we can do a trade and I wouldn't have gestational diabetes. But, if I do- I do. It's His Will, whatever that may be. So if you could, please say a prayer for me, that tomorrow goes well.

On a more exciting note, this little boy has quit the power! He kicks me so hard now that I can completely see my stomach move. And even more exciting, I could feel either a foot or a hand brush up again my stomach, so much to the point I could feel the structure of it with my hand. It was amazing and I almost cried. :)

I plan on blogging alot more from now on... so stay tuned as my time gets shorter to when this little boy joins us here on earth!

This ones' for Amy...

I ran into a dear friend of mine who I haven't seen in a long time. We stay connected via blogs and facebook, but it's always nice to see a friend in person! Well, she called me out on not posting in a while... so Amy, this one's for you! :) It was so good to see you today!

What's new?

Well right now my June has been SOLID BOOKED with stuff every weekend. This past weekend we had a garage sale. We mainly did it to just get rid of junk and clean out before the lil' one comes. We did pretty well on cleaning stuff out. Most of the BIG stuff went, including a broken stainless steel mini fridge that someone gladly took off our hands for .25! LOL I'm telling you, we had the best pricing in town! So it went good, but of course, very tiring. My parents took what was left up to their house to see what they can sell of it next week at their garage sale.

I have also been busting out photos for my remaining wedding and two engagement shoots I did in May. I am more than half way through the wedding ones, I need to have those done before July 4th... so everynight I try to edit around 20-30 while i watch the news....

I am also hosting my cousin's bridal shower on Sunday. I have been running around Columbus to get everything set and ready for that huge event. There were around 69 invited and ONLY 3 PEOPLE RSVPED that they can't come. YES! I know, usually 1/3 won't show, but you still must be prepared that they all come... how embarrasing it would be to not have enough plates or food! My mom is doing alot of the food, I am taking care of the rest. It should be a great time! I am very much looking forward to throwing this for her. She deserves a great shower!

I became an Aunt again on June 11th. Ryan's sister had her third, Olivia Marie...she is so cute. We are going down over 4th of July weekend to visit... so that should be a great time.

My sister is due in 4 weeks with her second... we don't know what it is, so I am very excited about that! I am guessing it's another boy! :) But we'll see.

My July isn't too bad. I want to start working on the nursery soon, stripping wall paper, painting, ordering new window treatments... So that should be fun!

Well, that's really all I know! Have a great week!

Latest Updates...

Hello!

Yes, its been a while! I am sorry for my laziness for not getting posts up lately. I have been super busy with my photography business. But I know mostly everyone is wanting to hear about this little person growing inside of me. So here are some latest news items on that topic.

I am currently 18 weeks along- 4 months. The baby is now the size of a sweet potato. Whew! Between weeks 6 and 13 was a doozie for me. I was sick as a dog ALL-DAY-LONG. I wanted to die. Really, I did. It was like having the flu 24/7. I never wish that upon anyone. I just kept telling myself it will be worth it, and it will be. I am finally feeling great again and getting to enjoy life. I think part of the time I didn't post because I just felt to sick to write anything! Seriously! It was bad.

We had our 17 week check up last week and had an ultrasound. :) And found out IT'S A BOY! Yes! There's a pee-pee! I saw it on the screen. The Dr. confirmed and we are so excited! This ultrasound was by far the best so far we had. We saw his toes and fingers and I have pictures of them too! You can count all 10 toes in the one picture. Too precious!

Continuing on the subject that I will be living in a house of all pee-pees... we are very VERY excited to be having a little boy because Ryan is the last Nusbaum in his family. His grandfather has been super excited ever since he heard the news. I know that it means alot to him, so we sure hope he stick's around to see his little Nusbaum grandson born.

Ryan said he had a inkling that it was a boy. I thought for the first 15 weeks it was a girl for sure, but then lately I had a change in my mind and I thought that maybe it is a boy! And sure enough it was! That day we had our dr. appointment, we were sitting in the waiting room and a woman came in and sat down beside me with a new born little boy. He was georgous. I couldn't take my eyes off of him. I just smiled and starred at him. I believe it was the moment that I really thought I could have one of these, one of these little precious angel son's sent down from above. And sure enough, not a half hour later, I found out I was! Amazing!

We have decided to keep the baby's name a secret. We have it narrowed down to around 5 names we like right now. The middle name will be DALE, since that is Ryan's Grandfathers, fathers and his middle name. Some names are very traditional, some are more modern. We'll see I guess.

Many people have asked me if I am going back to work or staying home with him. My answer is I will be returning to work, and for a couple of reasons. One, we prefer to live not strapped for cash. Even though we could survive with one income, we have a house (and I say house, not mortgage, because alot goes into a house than just the mortgage), a new car, and we like to have a nice balance in the checkbook for a rainy day. I want to give him all that I can. Child care is expensive, that's no doubt, but it doesn't even justify my work and benefits. Two, I tell people that I worked too dang hard through school and college to just give it all up. And that is the truth. I love my work, I love my job at Ohio State... it's too good to just give up. And three, I also believe that the time away from him will help me to refocus as a parent and return home at the end of the day appreciating even more the time I then get to spend with him.

My body.... popping out! I am getting bigger and bigger, that's for sure. I feel like I am mostly belly, although I have gained weight a little bit everywhere else. But that is expected. I continue to eat healthy and work out when I can. I don't read the scale when I go for my appointments. Unless they say something is wrong, I am not worried about my weight. I plan on breastfeeding, so that should help too.

Kicking... YES! I started to feel kicks around 17 weeks. It's amazing. I usually feel it after I eat and in the evening when I lay down to watch tv. :) He is surely active, I can tell.

I think that is about it for now. I will try to post more often and hopefully soon get a picture up here. I hope everyone has a great week!

A little bundle of joy...

Yes! We are expecting! :)
We are due November 5th and truly thrilled! This is a picture of Baby Nusbaum at 9 Weeks! I am currently rolling into my 12th week and feeling alot better. I was really sick (I mean REALLY sick) from weeks 6-11, I honestly didn't know if I was going to make it. LOL I thought to myself, it's like having the bad flu 24/7.

But then, during week 9 when we had our first ultrasound, it all seemed worth it. To see this little person, heart beating away, moving around on its own- - - we fell into instant love of this little being. I said to my doctor, it's all worth it... the throwing up, the constant nausea- - - it's all worth it, with a big smile on my face. :)

We finally told our parents at Easter 2 weekends ago. I got two larger green plastic eggs and put an ultrasound photo in each of them (for each set of parents). My parents were in total shock and THRILLED, while Ryan's mom fell to her knees crying and his dad was very emotional as well, and THRILLED! It was mostly shock because we have not mentioned NOR hinted of any kind that we were trying for a baby. So SHOCK, EXCITEMENT & TEARS would pretty much sum up that experience! It was great!

We have our next ultrasounds at the end of April, and during this one, we will be able to hear the heartbeat! :) So excited for that. In the mean time, my sickness level has gone WAY down... barely any at all! I also have formed a small baby bump, which I will hopefully take a photo of this weekend to post. Hope everyone has a great weekend!

xox,
Erin

Raise your hand if you need a vacation...

I DO! I DO!

I tell ya, I am dying. I'm sitting here at work exhausted, raining outside, cold- I'm just done. You know when you have reached that point when you're like "Ok, I need a vacation."

I have officially reached that point.

I you can tell, I haven't been blogging much- again- tired. So just burnt out on everything I can't even get enough motivation to blog, nothing is inspiring me.

Lucky, there is a light at the end of the tunnel... about a 3 week long tunnel. I am slowly crawling my way there.

That light is Vegas.

At the beginning of May, my sisters and I are off to our annual sister's trip to Vegas. Honestly, that's about all I can think about. Sun shine, good food catered to me, relaxing by the pool, no schedule, no emailing or phone calls, no making dinner, no laundry, no cleaning, NOTHING! AHHHHH! I can barely stand it.

I need a vacation. I need THIS vacation.

Will I make it? Well, I'm still crawling. Vegas would be the only light right now that would keep me going.

Vegas.

Yo!

Hi everyone. I know... I am a terrible blogger. But I have been so busy at work and on top of that, not feeling well for about a week due to this cold... I just have shunned myself from the computer.

Nothing too new going on. I haven't been shopping in like 2 weeks. Last time I shopped was went a ran to Kohls' with a 15% off coupon and got a cute black graphic tee for like 10 bucks...
Cute, huh?

I have been happy to announce that we grilled out for the first time this past week! I love beer brats on the grill- they are my favorite summer time food! So we had those one night, and hamburgers this past weekend. YUM!

Then it snowed on Sunday- BOO! :(

Well, that's about all to report for now. Have a great week!

Our New Boat...

Isn't it pretty?!

The Hurt Noone Sees...

This whole thing with Rhianna and Chris Brown is just awful. But it hits close to home.

I have been there, I was a victim of emotional abuse. Its' all very familiar although I have reached a "forgive" state in my life. Christ has helped me with that along with a couple of very dear dear friends. I was emotionally abused during my high school years. No one would believe me. He was such a "nice guy", so "quiet" and was "everyone's friend". People, open your eyes. No one would help me, no one wanted to see it. Everyone thought that I was the problem. No one could see it. Some still wouldn't believe me if I told them all the things that happened. But it happened. And I am not afraid to speak out. It was abuse. Never again.

I was stalked, threatened, and mentally abused. He would drive past my house to check up on me, he would get mad at me when I went out with friends, he forbid me to talk to any other guy, he would get mad that I wore spandex shorts while playing volleyball, he would be fine around his friends but would look all mad around me- like I made him upset. He didn't ever want me to wear nice clothes, he wanted me to always wear a sports bra because I had bigger boobs, he would talk to all sorts of girls, but when I sat in class next to a boy - he would get SOOO mad at me. He would tell me he loved me and wanted to marry me, but never showed that around his friends. He would say "I HOPE I CAN TRUST YOU" about 1000 times a day. This person knows who he is. I have forgave him since he was not right in the head and will not ever let this happen to another person close to me EVER.

No one could see it. No one would help me. Again, they all though I was the problem. I was not depressed. I was the reason HE was always mad. HA! Whatever!

I want to become an advocate for teenage abuse. I want to write a book to tell my story and to help other young girls to get out. I used to be afraid to talk about it, but not anymore. I used to be afraid to write about it, but not anymore. God saved me. He gave to me two best friends that are far greater than any pain I went through. One I married and he saved me too. My husband was sent from God to help heal me and to know what true love is. He is amazing. He is my angel on earth.

If I ever have a daughter, I swear on my life she will never go through what I went through. I promise you that. If I ever have a son, I will be sure he treats women with all due respect.

I can't go back and change the past, but I can take what I have been through and learned and help others. If you know anyone who may be in an abusive relationship or need help, I am always here to talk.

This is from the Oprah website:

Warning Signs of Teen Dating Abuse

An alarming number of teenage girls are being controlled or abused by their boyfriends by the time they graduate from high school. As a parent, you must know the signs of abuse in order to stop it. Dr. Jill Murray's warning signs can help you prevent your daughter from being a victim.

The Warning Signs:

• Isolation: Does your daughter have fewer friends than she did before meeting her boyfriend? This speaks to the isolation that an abusive boy imposes on a girlfriend. He might isolate her first from her friends, then from her outside activities and then her family. She can then become emotionally dependent on him, and find it difficult to leave.
• Emotional Changes: In the early infatuation stage of any relationship girls are often happy. Once the boy becomes abusive, she begins feeling sad and desperate. She may cry more or want to be alone.
• Constant Communication: Does your daughter's boyfriend constantly call or text her, and she must call him back immediately? He might ask her where she is, what she's doing, who she's with, what time she'll be back and how many other boys she has spoken to.
• Jealousy Issues: You might notice the boyfriend's jealousy. If your daughter looks at or speaks casually with another boy, does he get upset? Did he tell her that he loved her early in the relationship? This is his "hook." Your daughter might find this romantic, but it could be another red flag for jealousy and issues with control.
• The Boyfriend's Background: If your daughter's boyfriend comes from a tragic home life, it could mean trouble. He might not be far behind in his parent's footsteps if they use drugs or are abusive to him or each other.
• The Need to Impress: When he gives her "advice" about her choice in friends, hairstyle, clothes or makeup, notice if she's following his every word. Your daughter is likely in complete denial and may be in fear of what he will do to her if she doesn't change.
• Making Excuses for Him: Your daughter might stick-up for her boyfriend, defending his words and actions. Don't let her denial force you to ignore your gut! He may have convinced her that she's too sensitive when he calls her names or told her he's "only kidding."

Most importantly, if you keep the line of communication open with her, you'll be able to notice more signs. For more information, call the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline at 866-331-9474 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE.

I was healed. I want to be able to help heal others.

It's Been A While...

Hello everyone! I feel like I haven't blogged in forever. Yes, I am still alive! lol

I guess the first thing I will mention is that I am now a proud co-owner of a bass boat! Ryan's dream is to have a bass boat. Everytime I would do something to update the house, he would say "Don't forget about the bass boat." So as of yesterday, Ryan and Jordan (his cousin) purchased a REALLY nice Champion bass boat. The only other time I saw him that happy is on our wedding day! Ha! He deserves it, and I am very happy that he finally got one. They plan on doing fishing tournaments, so hopefully they win some BIG BUCKS, and let me tell ya, you CAN win some BIG BUCKS at those bass tournaments.

Other than that, just enjoying the much warmer weather and talking about our list of things to do outside this summer...

Have a super week!

You know the saying...

You gotta spend money to make money. Well I'm changing it to "You gotta spend money to SAVE money". This is my new quote for the year and I will tell you why.

I have decided to SPEND the money on good detergent for our wardrobe to avoid having to buy more clothes because they look bad; in return SAVING money.

Yesterday I took a trip to Walmart where I purchased the following:

• Tide TotalCare: More expensive than most detergent, but the return is keeping my nice work and going out clothes looking like new and not fading. I bought the biggest container they had ($18.98) and I am going to use it ONLY on my work clothes and nice summer clothes.
  
• Woolite for Darks: This only comes in a smaller container, but my thought is to use this ONLY on Ryan's work uniform (all black) and my dark pants and shirts. We know how faded black attire is just a horrible fashion don't.
  
• Purex: A cheaper brand of detergent that I will use on things that do not need special care (i.e. socks, bras, old t-shirts)

Word to all the money savers out there! If you didn't know this already, you can go online to just about any brand website of cleaning/laundry products and get a coupon for their products. Tide, Downey, Woolite, Swiffer.... I have all went online to get coupons for these products! I also go to Crest alot to get coupons for their white strips! Check'em out!

Spring Fever and Bargain Shopping...

I know I'm not the only one thinking this... When is spring coming? Eh. Luckily, I do not believe Ohio will be getting any more terrible snow storms, so I am thinking positive and hoping for some sunny days soon.

Stores have all their summer stuff out, alot is already picked over due to the upcoming spring break for college kids (example: Target and Old Navy at Lennox has NOTHING left barely).

This summer, I want to wear TONS of dresses and skirts. They also must be work appropriate, so I have my eye on some, but is still waiting to see what else comes out. I have also vowed to never spend more than $30 on a single item I buy for this summer's wardrobe. With the tough times we are going through, and the serious need to save money, I ton myself that I would go cheap but cute for summer! And  you can TOTALLY do it. Target, Old Navy, Walmart, and Forever 21 will be my only stores I shop at this spring. There is no need to spend $78 bucks for a little black dress (sorry JCrew, I love you but I can't do it). 

So today, I decided to take a lunch trip to Target. I wanted to check out what they all had and kind of get a feel of what I REALLY needed for spring/summer, and try to check prices so I get the best deal. I picked  up a darling dress for 21.99, it was blue cotton, strapless, adorable! But then, I went into the shoe department...

And I walked out with these little babies! I LOVE shoes, but love only shoes that are comfortable and NOT $100 bucks a pair! These ballet flats, which I love with pants AND dresses, were only $12.99 a piece! I put the dress back and got this bronze pair and zebra print pair. They are super soft, so the material moves with your foot and won't rub the back of your feet (which is always a plus). I figured I will wear these alot more than the dress and for only 12.99 each, I couldn't pass it up! They also came in white, black metallic and lepoard prints. I really want the black flats too, they were all sold out of the 8 1/2's. I usually wear 9's, but they are kind of wide and I have a super narrow foot, so I sized down.

Great Deal! Easy on the Budget! Check 'em out if you need some new shoes for summer!

Around The Office...

It is done! Finally done! The new computer room. Here are the pictures I promised.

Here  you see the back right corner of the room. The large book shelf that I made in college holds all binders and work stuff. I have a large 3" binder for all our paperwork we need to keep (Credit Cards, Insurance, Retirement, House Bills, Erin Medical, Ryan Medical, House Info, etc)

I found this is the best way for us to keep the information.

When you walk in, this is the left wall, Ryan's wall. We got guitar wall m

ounts to display his guitars. His large amp is the in the back left corner (shown). He loves it, I love it. You can also see the new floor!

This is my desk and area. The cubes to the left (from Target) of the de

sk has my printer, paper, envelopes, camera accessories, camera, photos (blue box) and cards. The cubes to the right houses all of my scrapbooking supplies. It has my old mac sitting on the top to play movies and beside it is my paper stash. I hung 2 paper lanterns (from World Market) and the shelves are also from World Market on clearance!

And here is my other embellishement wall and sewing station! I love it!

Computer Room Update...

First off, I apologize for the bad photo quality, but I couldn't find my camera in the mess so I used my phone. So last night I gave the trim a nice coat of white paint and decided to get into organizational mode. I started with my scrapbooking stuff, and I mean... just started. I have alot more to do. 

You can see the Making Memories Embellishment Center (from Michaels) on the wall, which I have started to fill up. Starting from the top, the "N" I painted the same color as the sewing cart. The top row of the shelving unit has small stamps, buttons and tags. The second row has small plastic containers that have small embellishments in them such as brads and clips. The next row has MM paints and will have my acrylic paints on there soon. The second to last row has flowers and ribbon, then the two bottom rows are the ribbon holders. 

The sewing cart is just a utility cart I got at Walmart for $34 bucks and I primed and painted it an ocean blue color. I found the baskets at Michaels for the first shelf. One holds fabric, the other holds other sewing supplies. The bottom shelf (that you can't really see) has my sewing box and my sewing book. I think it looks great!

Also, you can see a picture of the floor next to the wall and curtains (that obviously need ironed). It looks so great! We need to get a 8x10 rug this weekend before we can really start to put the desks and rest of the storage in the room. Enjoy!

Wednesday Update...

It's been a crazy week so far...

Started out with my husband having 3 kidney stones. 3 people! He is such a trooper. Passed them all! I should never complain when I give birth someday. He goes through child birth-like pain way more than I ever will.

Got word about more people I know losing their jobs. It really makes you realize how lucky we are to have the jobs we do. AND it makes you think that maybe you shouldn't of got that latte you got yesterday. Time to really put some cash in the bank for a rainy day. Good news though, the stimulus passed... so hopefully we are on our way up.

Today my parents came down to finish up the trim around the base of the new floor. My dad is the best! He did that, hung the new shades and hung my huge Making Memories Embellishment Center... my mom prepared dinner for Ryan and I (sloppy joes) so I don't have to cook tonight. They are seriously wonderful parents, I am very lucky to have them. :)

We randomly are having like 60 degree weather outside, and now have Tornado Warnings out until 9 tonight. Crazy!

This evening I plan on pouring myself a glass of merlot, painting trim, cleaning a little, putting my wire storage shelf together and watching some Ghost Hunters. I love these kind of evenings.

Hope everyone has a good night!

ps- I will post pictures of the new computer room probably next week once I have everything organized and put back together.

Fun Home Decor Projects...

It is always fun to think of new ideas for home decorating, especially if they are low-cost with a huge impact. Michael's Craft Store is probably my favorite store to be in, the possibilities are endless. The store also offers tips and ideas on their website also. Click Here to look at fun and easy ideas using everything from scrapbook paper, twin sheets, and other goodies.

Storage ideas continue...

Continuing on my organizational kick, I have purchased a few more things to help in the computer room.

One is this 3 shelve silver wire shelving unit from Target. I purchased one today, but I think I will get another one. These will go in the closet to help store files and things we do not use ever day.

I also purchased small plastic containers for embellishments to go on my Making Memories Embellishment Center (see picture below). I seriously can't wait to hang this thing!

I found 2 brown baskets that were on clearance for 4.95 each at Target.

I also hope to purchase this for the closet. 

It will take me a while to get everything back into that room, but the results will be phenomenal!

Weekend Blurb...

This past weekend was very productive and went very fast. Saturday consisted of getting up early, running errands for about two hours which consisted of the following: went to Michaels to pick up the Making Memories Embellishment Center (I got the last one!), PetSmart for treats and Fender's Birthday toy, Home Depot to purchase a new paint brush, getting my oil changed and then going through the car wash, stopping by the post office, then finally getting groceries and heading home. Total Time: EXACTLY 2 hours!

I then proceeded to the basement where I finished up painting my new cart that my sewing machine will be one (pictures coming soon). 

Note to self: ALWAYS PRIME WITH KINLZ BEFORE PAINTING!

Later, Ryan's parents came for a visit and we went out to Carrabbas, which was yummy as usual. It was great to see them. AND they gave me a beautiful pearl necklace and earrings for my Birthday present :) I love pearls. 

Sunday Jill and Steve came down and helped lay the new laminate floor in the computer room. It is NICE! We finished it, thanks to their help. We really do have great friends. 

Next weekend I am working on getting stuff back in the room. Until then, it will be finishing the trim and painting the baseboards. Good stuff!

I hope all of you had a great weekend!

Making Memories Embellishment Center...

I have convinced myself that I need this amazing piece of storage. This is the Making Memories Embellishment Center. They currently have it in-stock at Micheals Craft Store and it is 30% Off. 

I know exactly where I am putting this, in between the closet door and hallway door in my computer room. I am very VERY excited, I can hardly contain myself.

Storage Solutions...

Before I "peaced-out" from Cord Camera, I made sure that I was stocked up on scrapbooking stuff. No, I mean REALLY stocked up...like I wouldn't doubt that I made their quota for that month. But since we had a discount and scrapbooking stuff is not cheap, I took the opportunity.

So now, I have SO MUCH scrapbooking goods, I don't know what to do with it all. How do I organize it? And for me, EVERYTHING must have a place (and that isn't just for scrapbooking stuff, that is everyday things too!)

Here is a fun snippet from Better Homes and Gardens about scrapbooking storage solutions: Scrapbook Storage Solutions.

Wishes...

Wishing I was here today...

Inspiration...

As most of you know, we are currently re-doing our computer room. Well, actually, it is more of a computer, scrapbook, guitar room. It is only 169 sq ft. and is very tight (we have alot of goods in that room). Anyways, I have been researching to see how others have organized their spaces. I thought I would share some neat scrapbook rooms with you. Enjoy!

I love the desk space on this one.What a great idea for my sewing machine! It is currently in the basement and I would really love it to be upstairs. I believe this island is from Walmart.
Amazing! Isn't It!Oh, to have this amount of space.

This is Ali Edwards old scrapbook room. She has LOTS of goodies!
Simple and organized! I love the colors also!Baskets! I love 'em!

Quote...

Lumber Liquidators...

I took a little lunch-time trip out to Lumber Liquidators to pick up new Mahogany laminate for our computer room. That place was highly recommended to me from two friends, and I am so glad I did. They were extremely nice and helped me with no problems. You can see the color of the laminate I got, and it is gorgeous!

Our friends Jill and Steve are coming one of these weekends to help lay it, since this will be our first time doing it ourselves. 

I also ordered new shades for the room. The color on the walls is a nice tan, then I have blue/turquoise drapes from Target... but the blinds were the original ones with the house (the cheap plastic ones). So I ordered from JCP today new CORDLESS white pleated shades. Very nice!

I also have my eye on a set of 3 modern looking floating shelves from Kohls that are in an expresso color. But one thing at a time. :)

Home projects continue...

I think I have a small problem. Every time we do a home project, Ryan and I are always like "Okay, that will be enough for a while." Then... I get antsy. Then... I come up with new projects.

It's not all a bad thing... it's just I can't tell Ryan until AFTER I have made the purchase, or he tells me no. But ya know, guys don't care what the heck they live in. He doesn't care if the walls are painted, if the border is out of date, if the SINKS are from the 80's! Hey, if I budget for it, what does it matter, right?!?

Well, all you women out there know... the work is NEVER done. So, what's next you ask?

We are attempting, with the help of our dear friends Jill and Steve, to rip up the computer room carpet, which is ugly and stained, and install laminate. We love our laminate in our family room/kitchen, so we are going to continue to put some in the bedrooms, one by one. We are going with a mahogany color. The room isn't very big, about 12x14, so it shouldn't cost too much. 

Another project will be getting our guest bathroom tiled. My dad, bless his heart, is planning on doing that this spring, once it gets warmer. Going along with that will be a new granite vanity top (see picture above) for the same bathroom. We have the old shell ones from the 80's, and if we are doing the floor (which will be technically free since we are using left over tiles from our master bathroom), why not updated the vanity. Its fairly easy, my dad knows how to hook everything up.

Also, my dad wants to hook up a sink in our basement. Since I do alot of art projects, he said this would be nice to rinse the brushes out in... Hey, who am I to complain!

Besides the above, possibly removing the plaid wallpaper from our cabin room (bedroom #3) would be another project. But we will have to see on that.

This past year, we did A TON of upgrades:

• installed a gas fireplace
• new roof installed
• new garage doors installed
• mulched
• new laminate floor in family room and kitchen
• new breakfast table and sideboard
• new sofa and ottoman
• new curtains for family room
• new garage lights on the outside of the house
• had a storm door installed and painted the front door
• tiled the master bathroom
• painted guest bathroom upstairs
• removed border in the kitchen and repainted

Whew... I think that is it! I am sure I am missing something.

The list for 2009:

• laminate in computer room
• guest bathroom floor tiled
• new vanity and faucets in upstairs guest bath
• new vanity and  faucet in downstairs guest bath
• laminate in bedroom #3
• remove plaid wall paper
• new gazebo cover
• new kitchen sink

The list never ends. I am sure there is more, but those are the most important right now.

A Miracle, An Answered Prayer from God...

Hi everyone!

I just have to say that God Is Good! A miracle has happened in our family.

Last week, my dad had a colonoscopy done and they found 2 pullops. One was a yellowish color (which isn't good), the other was very very large. The doctor removed them as deep as they could and told us that he was pretty sure it was cancer, it was so big, there was pretty much no way it wasn't. He said there were black stems coming out from it and it was a bad color. This news devastated all of us, all of the people closest to our family.

How could this happen? My dad is the most gentle, kindest person I have ever met. He has never done anything to deserve this! He never had any pain or problems before, ever.

The doctors said they would have a biopsy done to see how bad it was, and Tuesday (today) they would come back to get the results.

It shook my sister's and I up pretty bad. For the past week, I have have cried and prayed and cried and prayed. 

I told God I trust Him. I trust Him. I trust Him. I don't understand why, but God has a plan and if this is part of him plan, then it must be for HIS glory. I asked him to please don't take my dad from me, not yet. I asked God to please be with me during this time. I told Him I knew He was by my side. I said I will not forsake Him. That He is my strong tower. That HE can do immeasurably more than we could ever ask for! 

I asked God that the surgery dad would have done, to be not bad. That if he had to have chemo, that it wouldn't be for long.

As last week went on, I felt a little more relaxed. I knew God was in control and what done is done, and we must move forward.

Today I woke up knowing this would be the day for the results of how bad the cancer was. I wore my tiny gold cross necklace that mom and dad gave me for my First Communion. Their appointment was at 11am. At 11am, I felt I had to put on Praise and Worship music. I began to daydream, not focusing on my work. At 12 noon, still no word. I began to just pray.

At 12:15pm today, my sister called. She said she just spoke with mom and dad:

NOTHING WAS CANCEROUS.

I said "WHAT?" She said "Nope, it was not cancer. It's nothing! It is all benigne!"

I broke into tears! I said "It is a miracle!"

The doctors told dad that they could not believe it was not cancerous. It wasn't anything! There were three doctors, they had dates ready for dad's surgery and everything. The main doctor said that it was a miracle. He said he has never removed something of that size first of all, and for it to not of been cancerous, was a miracle.

I tell you! I will shout it out loud "GOD IS GOOD!" "PRAISE HIM!"

At Home America...

Yesterday I spent the afternoon with my dear friend Priscilla who hosted an "At Home American" party. It was a fun day and I got to meet her two sisters (she is the youngest of 3 girls too!) and her adorable mom, as well as some friends she worked with.

My plan was to only buy 1 or 2 items, but of course, I went over my budget by about $20- Opps! I did get some good deals though.

The first item I purchased was this sign that I will either hang over our master bathroom doorway, or possibly in our baby's room someday. I love it...

The next 3 items I purchased were these 2 apocathery jars. Seriously good deal people- the largest one was only $9.99! I want to put these on my sideboard and put fruit in them: one with lemons, one with green pears, and one with apples (fake of course).

The final thing I purchased was one of these hanging vases. Pretty cute with LOTS of possibilities!

I really need to get more things up on the walls. A while back I purchased two box shelves and put them on the wall beside our back doors. I do also want to get a big black "N" to hang somewhere in the house. 

ps- I still have not used my $25 pottery barn gift card... :)

Pray...

"God is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or image"

-Ephesians 3:20

Please say some extra prayers for my family.

I love him more than anything...

Love it, Leave it #5

Love It: Aveda Shampure Shampoo and Conditioner

This is my favorite shampoo and conditioner that I have ever used. My sister got me hooked on it. Even though it is not their official "color protectant" product, it still always keeps my highlights looking great and I LOVE the way it makes my hair smell. Because it isn't cheap (9.50 per bottle), I switch it up with a cheaper brand and use it every other day to make it last.

Leave It: Aveda Shampure Candle

Because I love the shampoo and conditioner so much, I thought I would splurge and try their Shampure candle. Well, I have to say that I was very disappointed. They lady who was working when I bought it said how well it smells up the entire room and it's a huge seller (yeah right!) I can't even smell it when it is lit unless I go right up to it. AND it doesn't smell as good as the shampoo and conditioner. I will stick with the Henry Bendel brand Firewood candle from now on.

16 Things

I've noticed many blogs doing a 16 Things About Me post. I thought I would give it a try...

1. I am currently trying to decide on wall organization in our home office. I have reorganized/positioned all of our desks, guitar equipement, computers, etc for the third time this past weekend and I think I am finally satisfied with the outcome. But now I need to figure out how to utilize the wall space. (if you know me well, you know this is what I live for!)

2. I am proud to say that i have been working out 3x a week since the start of 2009.

3. I have found a new love of skiing. When Ryan and I went last Sunday, I did so good the instructor said I was a natural at it. I was going down the blue square runs right after my lesson. That means I was on the intermediate hill. :) And I never fell ONCE!

4. I got that "Personal Trainer Cooking" game for my Nintendo DS. I have scoped it out, but haven't officially used it yet. Really need to try it out.

5. I played Kung Fu Panda on XBox last night, all on my own. Ryan called while I was on level 1 and I told him I had to go cause I was playing this game. He said I made his night and that I am sooooo  his wife. :) I agreed.

6. I am holding off on buying any clothes until around March. I am a bargain hunter and to see the sales going on right now is very tempting. But I am keeping my ground and waiting until March when it is time to start to think about spring clothes. Target is the devil.

7. I am hoping for a BIG tax return this year. I want to get our new floor paid off so we can start saving up for other things. :)

8. I can't wait to see the new Friday the 13th Movie coming out February 13th of this year! It is a remake, made by the directors who made the Texas Chainsaw remake a few years ago. F13 is seriously my FAVORITE all time scary movie. So this is going to be a HUGE treat. My sister and I are going, its kind of a tradition. Good times!

9. I love the show "Jon and Kate Plus 8". I watch it EVERY Monday night. This coming Monday they are going to show off their new house. So excited.

10. I love Jcrew. I love every single item in their catalog that comes. If I could, I would buy 10 of everything. When I look at that catalog and website, those are the times I wish I was a MILLIONAIRE. :) But for now, I only buy things from there a couple times a year, and only when they are on sale.

11. I have a Pottery Barn Gift Card that I received from my dear friend Kelly for my Birthday. I have been waiting for the right thing from there that I really really want. Although I would take anything from there, I am waiting for that special item I can't live without.

12. My sister and Ryan's sister are both having babies this summer. More additions to the family. Pretty exciting. I am predicting now that Heather is having a boy, and Rachel is having a girl. We will see in June and July what the outcome is. (I am usually only right half of the time.)

13. I am in serious need to wear flip flops. I always get like this around Feb/March. I can NOT wait to wear flip flops. :) It's like clouds for your feet.

14. I desperately need to get my hair highlighted again. I am growing it out once more (Ryan is pretty excited about that), but yeah, the hair has like 2' roots. Really need to make an appointment.

15. I believe my faith will get me through anything!

16. I ate Cane's Chicken Fingers for lunch today. If you have never had them, you NEED to try them. The sauce alone is to die for. Yummmmmm!

Praise Him...

I just had to post a blog today saying that God is Good. 

We have been blessed so much this past year from new additions to our 'family' (family meaning family AND friends).

We have had so many blessings like our new roof, which God must have known we could not handle on our own, since he sent the blessed wind storm in September. Family members who have helped us install new garage doors; the fact that somehow we were able to purchase 400.00 in mulch to do our entire yard, which I still don't know how we paid for that without putting it in the budget. Plus the blessing of Ryan and I having each other, our home, our jobs, our dog, all the amenities we are spoiled with, etc...

It is truly a blessed life. 

Thank you Lord, for what you have brought into Ryan and I's life. We love you and thank you for every bit of it or every single person. Glory to your name! Whatever trials are ahead, we know you will be there with us, will be our strength. We will follow you! Praise to your name- Amen!

We are looking for many exciting times ahead during this new year, with the Lord by our side!

Ohhhh Ski Ski Ski Ski Ski...

For my 26th birthday, my husband surprised me with a ski lesson at MadRiver Mountain. We are going this weekend. While he has gone numerous times skiing with his family, the closest thing I have done is sled down a hill on a piece of plastic. We are both SUPER excited to go though. We are hoping this is something we really get into (and that I am really good at!). 

This past Sunday, we went and purchased LOTS of ski stuff. I got new North Face black ski pants (I wanted white, but they were all sold out), I got a black and white Columbia ski jacket, pink goggles (so cute!), pink socks, long underware other wool socks, pink 180 degree ear things and a pink UnderArmour top. Ryan got new brown Columbia ski pants to match his Columbia coat, long underware, socks, and gloves (he has most of the ski stuff you need). And thanks to a dear friend of Ryan's (who shall remain nameless) we used their store discount to get a HUGE deal on all this stuff. As some of you may know, ski stuff is NOT cheap. Our bill was almost 700.00! And with their discount we got everything for 269! YEAH! RIDICULOUS! So a big thanks out there to this special person who hooked us up!

I will let you know what all happens this weekend. Hopefully I catch on quick! I am pretty athletic, so fingers crossed.

My new love...

FEATHERS!

Yes, I have fallen in love with feathers in the hair. Look at these adorable clips I purchased off of etsy.com (ps- that is not my hair). So dang cute! I plan on wearing them to my birthday dinner on Saturday night.

Oh yeah, by the way, I turn 26 on Saturday January 10th. I have a dinner planned with 18 of my closest friends! It should be great time!

My co-worker told me that a woman's prime is between ages 26-32..... So on Saturday I plan to celebrate my prime! LOL