I Did it!

Yay!  I did it!  I made Baby Girl a dress!  :o)  

Last week I found a freebie tutorial for a newborn sized dress and I quickly downloaded the pattern and tutorial.  It looked pretty simple, so I started cutting out the pieces at nap time one day only to realize that I needed piping and bias tape.  I have never bought either.....so I dragged all 3 boys to Hobby Lobby after nap time.  I had a hard time finding what I wanted.  I was going to go with cream, but they were out, so I chose brown.  It works.  

I am by NO means a master seamstress.  I make LOTS of mistakes.  I sew pretty slow because I am not confident in my sewing skills, but I do alright.  I am so blessed that my Granny gave me her older machine so that I haven't had to worry with costs for a machine.  My parents fixed it up for me last year and it works great for what I need.  

This tutorial also had a 0-3 sized dress pattern so I think that will be my next project for her.  I have lots of fabric to make more dresses and she in need of dresses/outfits for her until the weather changes or 3/4 mos.

Radio Show

This morning at 8:10 I will be on the radio ONCE AGAIN.  

Its funny, I really dislike talking in front of people or being the center of attention.  HATE IT. HATE IT.  But I am continually getting opportunities to speak on the radio.

A few months back I was on Mom Talk Radio talking about menu planning and ideas.  Of course, 2 years ago, Hubbie and I were chosen, by the grace of God, to be the winner's of a local radio station's cruise giveaway.....  We had to speak on the radio twice for that.  And then WAY BACK in my high school days, somehow, can't even remember who or what or why, I had a chance to speak on the topic of homeschooling during high school, etc.  So anyway, for someone who really dislikes talking and being put on the spot, I sure am being given a lot of opportunities to do it.  EEEK!

Once again, I'll be on our local station (the one that we won the contest from) talking about a quick and easy recipe, of course, my favorite thing!

Last week the radio station posted on their FB wall that they were looking for a quick and easy recipe.  I thought about it for a little while and suggested Taco Cups.  Not thinking that anything would come out of it.  Then I got an email from one of the radio guys asking if they could call and tape us talking about the recipe, etc.  I said yes, of course, but surely they had LOTS of people sending in recipes?!  Why choose mine?!  

Yesterday morning they called and we talked about my recipe.  Its a really quick, easy and cheap recipe that we make every so often.  The reason I don't make it more is because we eat off of it for DAYS!  I can usually get 12 muffin sized taco cups and Hubbie and I both eat one.  The boys will split two and we still have SO many left!  Usually we're eating them for another evening's meal and I'm sending them to work with Hubbie until he gets tired of them!  

One of the many reasons why I suggested taco cups was because its- ready for it- quick, easy and inexpensive to make!  :o)  Truly!  You're only using 1/2 of a lb of ground beef.  1 can of biscuits (or you can make them from scratch! its works fine too!).  Some cheese and add-ins and you're done!  We add in some type of bean (black or pinto) and usually corn.  This helps stretch and thicken up the meal!  We've done rice on the side with this meal.  Or you could do a salad.  Or chips and salsa.  :o)  Its really an easy easy meal!  

I wish I had figured out the cost of the meal.  I usually try to do that in my head once we've finished with something.... adding in the leftovers, all the ingredients, etc.  It can't be much.  Maybe $5 for 2 meals for 5 people?!  Can't be beat!  

Menu Plan Monday - Week of March 28th - April 3rd, 2011

Monday- Pancakes with strawberries 


Tuesday- Ham and cheese roll ups with fries and fruit 


Wednesday- Park/Dinner with friends


Thursday- Leftovers?


Friday- Family Night- homemade pizza, cheese toast, fruit or salad and a dessert 


Saturday-Lunch: Burgers/Hot dogs on the grill, beans and potato salad 
Saturday- Dinner: Leftovers from pizza night


Sunday- Lunch:  Leftovers off the grill and sides 
Sunday- Dinner: Mac and cheese with meat and broccoli and rolls 


Nothing exciting on our menu... things that will be quick and easy to make and clean up!  :o) 


For more menu tips and ideas or to link up to MPM, go here.  

~

The week I dread every year is here!  The yearly conference for Hubbie's work.  I cannot tell you how THRILLED I am that the conference is local again this year.  For years they've gone to different cities and I hated Hubbie being gone for five or six days.  Since its local, he will be home to sleep, but thats about it.  And this year, he added on the task of being in the entertaining band for the week.  Geesh!  As if we don't have enough to worry about, we've added him practicing and having to practice with the other band members!  :o) Between the race and this conference and him trying to get performance ready, we have had a busy month!  I cannot WAIT until this is over.  I want a get-away where we have nothing we HAFTA do!  :o)

On top of the week of being a "single parent", its raining CATS AND DOGS!  Its been going on since Saturday afternoon and its not letting up.  The weather man is forecasting rain the WHOLE ENTIRE WEEK!!!  That just might cancel all 3 of our park dates/plans(oops! it just canceled our plans this morning!).  BOO!  I'm praying for this week to fly by!

Handmade With Love

This week I set to work on my first hair "do-dad" project for Baby Girl.  Believe me when I say....this is my first and it won't be my last!  

I had a little trouble getting started.  I didn't have any instructions and just assumed that I knew how to make these cute "yoyo" do-dads.  Boy!  Was I wrong!  Once I was finished with "MY VERSION" and I realized that it wasn't working exactly like the pictures.... I googled and searched and SEARCHED!  There are PLENTY of places to buy these too-cute-for-words hair creations, but very little instruction.  I finally found a sweet Southern gal's tutorial on YouTube and we had success!  Yay!  

I made the top 4 in less than a hour!  And I made the bottom 3 in 30 mins?!  I am realizing that I need more buttons and fabric scraps!!!!  I snatched these buttons from my meager button jar!  I need to hit some yard sales or flea markets to get some more!  

What a fun project!  I have been itching to get started on hair bows and accessories, but haven't found or made the time!  

Baby Girl has quite a few "plain" dresses for the first few months, so I thought these type of things on her head would help liven up some things!  Besides, whats a girl without a bow and some jewelry?!  

Trip to North Carolina, March 2011

Whew!  What a weekend!  I don't even know how time flew by so quickly, but it did!  On Friday evening I was having trouble getting excited about leaving the kids.  I knew they would be fine.  I knew that God was watching over them.  I knew my parents would do a great job with our three little monsters, but I was just having the hardest time wanting to go away.  I know...crazy...crazy....but I truly love being with my kids.  Sure, I enjoy breaks, but I love LOVE LOVE to be at home with my kids in their beds, every night.  I just do not enjoy them not being at home at night.  Call me crazy Mama!  :o)

Saturday morning came and we woke up late and got on the road late.  I was able to say good-bye without crying, got breakfast and we headed down the road.  We hadn't been on the road for two hours when my Daddy called me.  I got a knot in my stomach the size of Texas.....  my Mom and kiddos were locked out of the house.  It took everything in me not to cry and tell Hubbie to turn the car around THAT instant!  All I wanted to do was fix it and make sure my kids were OK.  My family wasn't only locked outside of the house, but the van keys were in the house....so they couldn't go anyway.  It was almost lunch time and it was warm on Saturday.  Anyway, all these thoughts went through my head and I panicked.  I called the rental agency to see if they charged a small fee for "lock outs" and they did not.  I then decided to call the Sheriffs dispatch office to see if they could help unlock the door knob....maybe with a punch key or credit card.  The lady on the phone was the wife of a officer on patrol in our area so she sent him out.  He tried his "trick" and it didn't work.  The whole time we are still driving further away from my children and locked out parents!  Anyway, my Dad eventually found a way into the house.  Thank the Lord! for not having to spend $50 on a lock smith!  Everyone was fine and the crisis was over!

We got to "packet pick up" for the Marathon, ate lunch and then checked into the hotel.  Then we ran out for dinner, drove around to see where we needed to go the next day, made a quick trip to Wally World and went back to the hotel for a early to bed night!

On Sunday Hubbie had to wake up around 4 am to eat something and get ready for the race.  I woke up around 5 and drove him to the shuttle pick up.  My stomach was in knots dropping him off.  He looked so pale and nervous!  All his training for 3.5 mos was about to either pay off or he was going to get hurt or not be able to run past 20 miles..... we were both so nervous!  All I could do was pray for the Lord to encourage him along the way, give him strength to finish and to give him pride to know that no matter what, he was doing something amazing!  I went back to the hotel.  It was only 5:30 and breakfast wasn't being served until 7 and of course, I couldn't go back to sleep, so I watched Fox News, blogged and got ready.  Around 7, I hear an alarm out in the hallway.  It was a fire alarm!  My heart was pounding!  It was one of those things you see in movies or hear about happening, but I froze!  What are you suppose to do?!  So I opened the door slowly, looked around, didn't see smoke, but the alarms were flashing and VERY LOUD!  I grabbed my purse and found the stairwell.  Once I got downstairs, I could see a Bunch of other guests talking about what was going on.  I guess it was an "accident", so I ate breakfast and went back upstairs!  I finally left the hotel at 9:30 in order to park at shuttle pick up and then have plenty of time to get to the race finish line.  Well, when I got to shuttle parking, it was full, so they had a map to another parking location!  What a crazy morning!  I found the spot, parked and no parking or racing officials were there.  Just a long line of spectators waiting!  So I stood in line, HOPING I would make Hubbie's finish time!  We stood in line for 30 mins, something I had not expected or had been told for us to expect waiting that long!  All the racing info was very encouraging about plenty of parking, quick shuttles to and from the race finish line, etc. etc. etc.  Well, we finally got on a shuttle and got to the finish line 20 mins AFTER Hubbie was suppose to finish!  I was so sick about this!  Here my husband just ran his FIRST marathon.... less than 3 years after starting to run at 340 lbs!  I did not want to miss this milestone in his life!  Once the shuttle dropped us off, you had to HIKE to the finish line!  I was busting some butt... so worried that if only I had walked a little faster, I would have seen him!  We all get to the finish line and guess what?!  The race had started 20 mins late!!!  What a blessing!  I was in PLENTY of time!  I got a spot right in the front row, at the finish line and was able to see him finish!

Lots of tears of joy and happiness!  I just can't tell you how many things "worked out" for us on Sunday.  First with the shuttles and then, our hotel wasn't the "race" hotel, because we didn't book early enough, so we had found a hotel, very inexpensive, in the race area, that would allow a slightly later check out time, but then, because of poor shuttle management, we weren't going to be able to make our "late" check out.  Most check outs are at noon. The Wingate was giving us until 1 to check out, at no charge.  Well, once Hubbie finished, we had to stand in line for about a hr to wait on the shuttles to take us back to overflow parking and then we STILL had to drive back to the hotel and get our stuff, so I called, so worried that we would have to pay.  Thankfully, the gal said we had until 3 without a charge!  Another huge blessing!  We made it back to the hotel at 2pm and Hubbie was able to shower and change.  Then we were back on the road for lunch and then a 2 hr trip to Mount Pleasant, N.C. for our bed and breakfast night.

Mount Pleasant is a very VERY small town.  We stayed in the Franklin Street Bed and Breakfast.  Sweet people.  Very beautiful, old historic home.  We had the place to ourselves since we were the only guests!  We checked in and walked to dinner at a "mom and pop" local place that served lots of dinner plates with veggies, homemade burgers, fried chicken and lots of yummies!  Hubbie was able to replenish some of the 4,000 calories that he had burned that morning!  Then we were treated with cheesecake and blueberries and coffee before going to bed EXTRA early!  We were EXHAUSTED!

On Monday, we woke up to coffee and juice awaiting outside our door.  We were able to take our time getting ready and then we ate a yummy breakfast!  We didn't have to make it or clean it up!  What a treat!  Then we headed to Charlotte and the big shopping trip at IKEA!  When I tell you this place is HUGE.... I mean HUGE!  Hubbie and I just gawked in awe at the store front!  We laughed at taking this picture, but only he and I knew why.  I've been getting catalogs from IKEA for about 2 years and have had things thumbed down, written down or mentally jotted in my head.  I was PREPARED for this trip!  We enjoyed wandering through the shop, but by the end of the "show room" I was done!  HAHA!  I guess I'm not that much of a shopper!  I wish the showroom was set up with the items near by to pick up.  I know IKEA does this on purpose... the longer you're in there, the more you spend, etc.  The store is literally a maze!  Anyway, we got everything on our list and made a few mental notes for things that could help organize the boys room.... if we have the extra funds, we may go back and purchase.  Once we checked out, we headed upstairs to eat lunch.  Hubbie has been awaiting their Swedish meatballs and gravy!  He said they were pretty tasty!  We enjoyed our lunch and dessert and then raced to the car to get home!  We had no intention of spending 4 hrs at IKEA.  I was really hoping to be home by 3.  Instead, we were home by 5!  Eeek!  I know my Mama was ready to be done!  ;o)

We made it home safely, with no traffic issues... another praise!  Our kiddos were happy and not so deprived of restrictions and rules that they were unruly...another blessing.  The home was clean and we were able to come home and unpack quickly!

The Lord answered so many prayers for this weekend... prayers for safety and health for the whole family,  a great finish for Hubbie and some quiet time for me and Hubbie.  And we are so grateful to my parents for being so willing to take care of our three boys.  My kids are great kids, but, they are kids and can be a handful.....and for that very reason, we are EXTRA grateful for their willingness!

The weekend was definitely geared towards Hubbie running this race, but I did enjoy being there to support him.  I am very thankful that this race is over and done with and hopefully we can put racing to the side for a few months!  Hubbie jokes that the racing bug has been bitten for a while!  I know it won't be long before he starts planning and scheming and trying to see where he can get us to next!  But I am very proud of all his accomplishments and determination.  I have no desire to run or walk 26.2 miles, but I am very thankful that he's done something that makes him happy, feel accomplished and also, keeps him healthy!

23 weeks

We purchased Baby Girl's 1st birthday dress this week!  I've been trying to find one since we found out the gender.  Do you know how hard it is to find a smocked birthday dress/outfit for less than $20-25?  Even on Ebay?!  I had finally just decided that she had plenty of my smocked baby dresses and that one of those would work fine!  Zulily had a sale on Petit Ami outfits and dresses on Tuesday, so I quickly snatched a birthday dress!  Whew!  One more thing off the never ending list!  :o)  

Baby Girl is 23 weeks today.  We are slowly creeping towards the 3rd trimester.  She is definitely a mover and a shaker!  On Saturday she was moving so much that she shook my tummy.... several times!  What a feisty gal!  

We have a doctor's appointment coming up, so we are anxious to hear another heartbeat and make sure everything is still going along fine!  

I am feeling fine.  No nausea or sickness.  No worries.  I can tell if I do too much exercising, fast walking, that my abs will ache, but I'm assuming its because they are still stretching out and aren't strong like they once were (A-hem!).  

Cravings have seemed to subside a bit.  The only thing that I really want lately is snickers bars, crushed ice cokes and Sonic Cherry Limeades.  Yum!  I still have my food aversions and it makes planning menus very difficult.  UGH!  I will be so glad when normal household dinners become enticing to me again.  

IKEA Trip

I have a whole blog post about this weekend just awaiting pictures, so until then, I wanted to show you what I purchased after spending 4 hours at IKEA today!


Drum roll please....

We decided on this table.  We have been looking for a kids table for a year.  I really wanted a kids table and chairs like you see in church's classrooms.  I was REALLY hoping I could find some at a yard sale or on Ebay/Craigslist.  No luck.  So, this will have to do.  We looked at the wooden tables at IKEA.  They were way too low for Bubbie.  We looked at other options, such as a wall of table tops attached to the walls, with chairs lined up, which I loved the look of and the organization, BUT, we couldn't move it around.  The kids would be stuck against a wall.  I really wanted some flexibility with the table.  So, we chose this round table.  

Then we had to decide on chairs.  Did we want chairs or stools.  We choose stools.... for several reasons.  First of all, we didn't feel like the backs of the chairs (that we tested out at IKEA) were sturdy.  We were afraid that our boys would be a bit too rough with them.  We also thought that for the price, we couldn't go wrong with getting these stools and if we found small classroom type chairs for a thrifty price, we could get those to go with the table.  

We also decided to not get baby girl a chair!  We realized, while calculating months of when she'd be ready for a chair at a kids table, that Bubbie will be almost 8!  ALMOST 8?! by the time Baby girl is 12-18 mos.  Gessh!  By that point, he'll be too big for this table anyway and if we need to, and if this table lasts that long, we'll just let her use his stool or get her a new one, etc.  

We did purchase this for baby girl.  :o)  The high chair wasn't a urgent thing on my list.  I had already planned on buying a space saver high chair for her off craigslist closer to her needing it.  We saw these and thought about it for a while.  We thought that this would be super easy to clean, took up little space, easy to transport, etc.... and its only $20!?  So we went with it!  If we don't end up liking it, I can sell it.  So that made it an easy choice!  We ended up purchasing the tray that goes with it and I'm very happy with this purchase!  

One BIG thing we went to IKEA for were lamps that would be mounted to the walls, so that the boys could have light on their "bunk" and the ability to turn off/keep on depending on their sleep patterns.  One kiddo likes a light off pretty quickly after he's in bed.  Another kiddo likes a light on, so we figured this would help.  We ended up choosing something similar to this... or this may be it. 

 I've forgotten by now!  We looked at so much!  

We looked at quite a few.  Some of them were extremely hot, so that worried me.  A few of them, I really liked, but the cost x 3 was a bit for this project, so we went with cheap and functional rather than something that I loved!  ;o)  This works and hopefully we can lay a few ground rules and we'll have obedient boys!  

You can literally spend all day inside an IKEA.  We didn't know they had a drop off children's play area!  Did you know you can drop your kids off at a staffed kids area?!  I was shocked!  This place sure does think of everything so that you can spend all day shopping!  Food- they've got it.  Shopping carts, bags, carts- they've got it.  Pencils and maps and helpers around the store- they've got that too!  Geesh!  As cool as it was to go, I'm exhausted just at the mention of IKEA!  LOL  Its gonna be awhile before I get  up the energy to go on a shopping trip again!  

One last purchase that I'll mention is canisters!  Canisters is something that I have a hard time spending money on.  I spent MONTHS trying to find red canisters that weren't "dorky" looking.  I finally found some that I liked the look of at TJMAXX YEARS ago!  I don't even know if Peanut was born yet.  Well, they weren't ceramic canisters so they've had some wear on the insides, so I had to use a ziploc bag inside of them to store the item inside the canister.  Its been fine.  Hasn't bugged me.  And the outside has been good to go, but over the time, the outside has gotten so much dirt and food and junk stuck on them, I haven't really been able to get them super clean, so I decided on Friday that I'd see what they had.  I found these.  

A tad too modern for my taste, but I figured I could spruce them up a big.  For $4 bucks each, I thought I couldn't go wrong.  I thought either a spray painted red lid?  Or if I got really creative, I could do this....

Maybe a chalkboard square so that I can write whats inside?!  We shall see!  For now, I'm just THRILLED to have clean canisters awaiting me!  

So, all in all, we did great with our budget.  We didn't pick up anything we didn't need or what wasn't on the list!  After months and MONTHS and MONTHS of drooling over catalogs and seeing what others suggested, I am so thankful to have our trip over and done with!  I was amazed with some of the prices, but other things, Hubbie and I were like, "We can get that at home for that price!" so we definitely didn't get caught up in the "its gotta be cheap since its at IKEA"!  We also got a lot of great ideas!  Boy!  What money can help you do!  If only you had oodles of money, your house would be so organized!  HAHA!  We did drool over a few of the rooms.... and yes, Hubbie did get into some of the rooms and furniture!  I was surprised!  ;o)  He and I definitely have a similar taste in decorating/design after almost 9 years of marriage and 11 years of being together.

Whirlwind! And Catch Up!

Wow!  What a week!  I don't think I stopped for a chance to catch my breath!  I spent the entire week on laundry, school and cleaning.  I wanted every bit of laundry cleaned and put away before we left for Hubbie's marathon.  I am proud to say that only a tiny bit of last minute laundry was left at home!  YAY!  Also, my sweet, hardworking husband cleaned both bathrooms from top to bottom!  When I say cleaned, I mean, on his hands and knees and scrubbed every single inch!  It looks SO good!  All day on Friday, I kept reminding him how much I appreciated it, because they looked THAT good!  We have those tiny old tiles in both bathrooms, so if you sweep, the dirt just gets caught in the grout.  UCK!  It needs a good cleaning like this once a month!  Anyway, it feels SO good to know that the bulk of the laundry is done and the house is clean!

The weather was beautiful this past week.  Friday was so warm that I pulled out the sprinkler and water table for the kids!  Yay for Spring!  Speaking of Spring, today is the first day of Spring!!!  Georgia sure is showing signs of it as well!  We left home in a cloud of yellow dust!  Literally!  Nothing like Spring with all the pollen!  Our azaleas are in full bloom!  So pretty!

My sweetest sister in law's birthday is today also!  Happy Birthday Jana!  I love my sister in law like a sister and am so thankful for her.  My grandparents laugh at memories of my feelings towards Jana when she and my eldest brother started dating.  I did not like her.  Not her personally.  I didn't know her.  I didn't like ANYONE that was going to take my Bubba away!  Thankfully, I realized quickly that she was really what my brother needed and something special!  I wish we lived closer and could raise our children (she is pregnant with no. 4 as well!) together!  What fun our crews would have together if we were close enough for weekly/monthly get-togethers!

Happy St. Patty's Day!

We love St. Patrick's Day around here.....here are a few reasons why- Bubbie and I love the color green; its March, which means, ALMOST SPRING! and lets not forget the story of St. Patrick!

We learned the "real" story behind St. Patty's Day after hearing an Adventures in Odyssey episode about Patrick's mission to tell others about Christ.  This episode has been one of Bubbie's favorites since we purchased this DVD set back at Christmas.

Today, we celebrated by learning some of the history behind the story of St. Patty's Day, listening to the Adventures in Odyssey episode, reading about leprechauns and other child-friendly Irish folklore and lets not forget, the fun stuff:

seeing "green pee" in the potty....

the mischievousness of the "little leprechauns".....

 

baking fun "Taste A Rainbow" cupcakes..... (FAIL! But they were good!)

Oh...and.... wearing GREEN!  

Happy St. Patty's Day!  

Baby Favorites

One of my favorite baby items is the Fisher Price Baby Papasan chair.  It does all the normal vibrating, music, etc. and has a toy attachment that a soft, neutral bunny hangs from.  

I found this chair off craigslist before Peanut was born.  He was born 6 days before Christmas which is cold and flu season.  By MLK Jr Day, he had his first nasty cold and he was so stuffed up!  It was awful!  I felt so helpless!  He would choke while trying to nurse and was SO congested.  Thankfully, he was fine and didn't need any medication, but he did sleep in this chair, by a humidifier for the rest of the winter months.

When Bugs came home, I had this chair set up beside my "nursing throne" and he and I spent several days in our "chairs".  He would sleep in the chair and I would sleep in my chair, in between every 2-3 hr nursing sessions.    He was easier to reach, because of my c-section, I didn't have to bend down too far or worry about him rolling or change positions.  The chair is perfect for snuggling the babies and keeping them in a little cocoon.  And the sides have great handles so that you can carry the child around the house with you.  The chair is nice and wide and I've always felt like the child was safe in it.  

I don't think I paid very much for this chair, probably around $20, and since I still have it, its gotta tell you how much I love this thing!  I have let my SIL borrow it twice and then a friend borrowed it for a few months.  Its definitely something I have lots of fond memories with and it will be hard to part with after itty bitty baby girl is too big for this.  

The only down side to this chair is that my babies seem to outgrow it pretty quickly.  It always seemed after two or three months, the boys have outgrown it, we've had to put it away and pull out a bouncy chair.  

Sadly, I just realized that this chair is not available any more!  I'm sure they've created new "papasan type" chairs since this one was designed, but this chair has been a life saver!  :o)

22 weeks + 17 weeks to go

From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another. John 1:16

22 weeks ago, this tiny baby was placed in my womb and forever, our lives are different.  Not just because its another little one, but because its our last, its a girl and its a reminder of God's faithfulness, grace and never ending love to our family.

18 weeks ago, I dared to hope that we were pregnant.  At the same time, I was cautious about getting my hopes up.  In one way, I didn't want to be pregnant.... the c-section, the never-ending sleepless nights, the early nursing days, the changes...... and in the same exact second, I prayed for this child, that may or may not have been in my tummy.

18 weeks ago, I began patiently awaiting the sonogram.  Hoping for a healthy child.  Anxious to hear a heartbeat and to see the perfect, itty bitty body part.  Praying for my heart's desire to be whatever the Lord would bless us with.

4 weeks ago, a sonographer told us that our lives would forever be changed.  In a split second, emotions came flooding out as I quit wondering and waiting and hoping and second guessing and heard "its a girl" for the first time in my life.  Never will I forget that moment.  The same way I haven't forgotten the moment with the other three.

Every since then, my head is constantly spinning of what needs to be done before she arrives.  This pregnancy is so different from all the others.  The last two pregnancies, we've had all the stuff.  I bought little special fun things and things that we needed to replace, etc but with this little one..... we've needed everything.

Our swing broke after Buggy.  The saucer was destroyed after two little ones and having bought it used, it was already on its last leg.  The bouncing seat was sold a month before itty bitty baby girl was conceived.  The list could go on and on.  But mostly, I've been drooling over clothes and bows and craft projects.

So much of this pregnancy has been a learning and growing for me.  Learning to lean on Him for provisions.  Learning Scripture verse that offer a reminder of security, hope and a purpose.   Trusting that He will provide me with the ability to do the job of mothering four little ones, every day, no matter what the circumstances.

Lord willing, in 17 weeks, we will be meeting our precious baby girl.  A daughter.  A breath of fresh air amidst a life centered around our life with boys.  Our lives will never be the same again.  Hoping.  Praying.  Awaiting for her to come be with us.

I want to pinch myself on a daily basis, because its still so surreal.  Surreal that I am a mother of four children.  Surreal that even though I don't have an answer for everything, God is still answering prayers in His time, and is ever-present in our lives.  Surreal that after three little boys, He decided that we needed to have a daughter to love.

17 weeks seems like so far away.  In 4 mos, we will begin a new journey, parenting a little girl.

Menu Plan Monday - Week of March 14th, 2011

Monday evening-  Leftovers (steak tips, m.potatoes, green beans and biscuits)

Tuesday evening-  Breakfast night!  Eggs, sausage and english muffins

Wednesday evening-  Sloppy Joes with oven fries and beans

Thursday evening-  BBQ chicken muffins with cole slaw and beans

Friday evening-  Leftovers

Saturday evening-  Traveling- Hubbie's 1st marathon

Sunday evening-  Traveling- Hubbie's 1st marathon


For more menu tips and ideas, visit Laura here.

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As you can see, I had a short menu planning week due to Hubbie's marathon.  We will be leaving the kiddos with Nana and Pops.  Its the first time I've ever left Buggy for a trip and I only just left him for an over nighter a few weeks ago.  The majority of the trip will be focused on Hubbie and his needs before and after the marathon.... since this is his first, we really have no clue how he'll feel afterwards.  We're expecting him to be quite stiff.  We plan to stay at a nice B&B and stop by IKEA on our way home.

Before we can leave our kiddos and enjoy some alone time, we gotta get through this week, which will be pretty normal and not crazy like last week!

If you think about us, pray for safe travels, healthy family, patient and rested Nana and Pops, obedient children and Hubbie's endurance and ability to do this successfully!  We've all worked REALLY hard to get him here!  LOL  Hubbie has worked the hardest, of course, but its quite a job being a Mama of 3, pregnant, with a runner husband who is working long hours with a full time job and doing contracting on the side, late into the night and trying to train....doesn't leave much couple time, so I'm ready to say adiós to the training plan!!!

Whats In A Name?

Not sure if I told blogger-ville, but we have chosen a name for this baby caboose.  She will have four names.  Crazy?  Yes, I know.  Necessary?  No, not really.  But we started with all of our children having middle Gaelic-Anglo Saxon type names that begin with the letter "B" and I would really like to carry that through for all our children...not just the boys.

The first name that we chose was the first name we had ever "decided" on.  After we found out the sex, we searched for another one, just to be sure and I couldn't really find one that we both liked more than her name, so we stuck with it.  Its a double first name and part of her name is Jane, which means God is gracious.

The middle name is my grandmother's maiden name, and it starts with a "B" and is Anglo Saxon, I believe.

Because I've never known anyone with a double first name to get things monogrammed, I started searching the other day.  I had given a friend a set of clearance towels to get monogrammed and was kinda wondering, what do you do?  I searched and found this example.

I like this idea a lot, but what type of font would you use?  Different font for the M-A-N than the B?  These aren't her initials, of course.  

Another idea from the same website is to do  M A N B  on something, just straight across....  which is OK too.  

For these little hoodie towels, I'm not gonna stress about them, and I don't plan on selling them because hoodie towels get used for YEARS in our house, so I plan on her being able to use them until they are no-more.  

21 weeks Pregnant with Our Itty Bitty Princess

Pregnancy Highlights:

How far along? 21 weeks

Size of baby? About the length of a carrot

Total weight gain/loss? I find it hilarious that its written this way, but I actually did lose a tiny TINY bit between my last two appointments.  I am definitely not feeling the urge to snack as much as I did in the beginning.  I haven't kept track, because I can't remember what my weight was when I went in for the first appointment.  Let's just say its MUCH more than I ever wished to see on a scale and I am anxious to burn this baby weight (all 4!) off.  

Maternity Clothes? Yes.  And even some of those are uncomfortable.  I feel like I'm constantly pulling them up or trying to not squat or pulling my shirt down.  I have never had this much of a hate for clothing before, but right now, I'm hating that nothing fits "great" or normal.  I usually am very anxious to get into maternity clothing after months of waiting, but right now, I just hate clothing in general!  Another frustration is the weather.  Last week we were in the 70's and this week, its been a tad chilly, so I don't know what to wear.  I only have a few winter maternity things because I sold most of it at a consignment sale and hated to buy too much more because of the season's changing.

  

Gender? Well, everybody and their brother knows that it's a G-I-R-L!  Are we still over the moon excited?!  Well, yes, of  course!  And we have started to get those comments like "I guess you're done now since you finally got your girl?"  Uh, yeah, we were already gonna be done!  HAHA!  

Sleep? Sleep is good.  I seem to go through phases.  For a week or two I had tons of energy and could stay up later.  Here lately, because of a certain addicting t.v. series on Netflix (Army Wives), I have only been able to find time to watch after the kids are in bed and we've gotten everything done around the house, so I've been staying up later, which makes me wake up later and its throwing my whole day off!  I need a few days to catch up on sleep!  

Cravings? I have cravings, but its not the same thing every day/week which is different from the other three.  This pregnancy and my food aversions is so weird.  Last week, I had a casserole, that the day before was SO good, but when I went to reheat it, it made me so nauseous.  I couldn't eat it.  I really hate this.....and so does Hubbie! 

Symptoms? Heartburn.  Horrible heartburn.  Starting at noon and going through the night.  Its awful.  I know I could take a pill, but I would just rather not have heartburn.  From a never had heartburn except during pregnancy kind of a gal, its hard to deal with!  :p  UCK!   Another symptom is my sciatic nerve.  Thankfully, its been much better the last week or two.  Sometimes it hurts so bad, I have difficulty moving...but its usually a day that I've been on my feet, without shoes, and doing a lot of bending down.  

Best Moment of the Week?  1) My big boys telling the cashier that we were buying shoes for their baby sister.  2)  While I was sorting through Baby Girl's clothing, Bubbie walked into the room and asked "Are these the baby's clothes?"  I said yes.  Bubbie then said "Oh, they are so cute!"  

So sweet to see my big boys so excited over everything girly and having a sister!  

Prayer Through My Child's Eyes

Last week, while putting Bubbie to bed, he had a full meltdown.  The ugly kind.

These meltdowns are quite often with our oldest and very emotional child.  He is dramatic.  No clue WHERE he gets that from (sheepishly hiding in the corner).  I seriously have to give my parents a round of applause for surviving my own dramatic childhood, because sometimes, this child, is just too much.

Because the meltdown came at bed time and he had had a long weekend followed by several long and eventful days, we just assumed it was because he was overly tired.  During his meltdown, he was trying to tell us something and of course, we had no clue and began to do our usual, brush off the meltdown, because we knew he was TIRED!  When these meltdowns happen our attitude is like this- dude, if you're THIS tired, stop talking and GO TO SLEEP!  Quit delaying bedtime. But, when I finally figured out a sentence that included BSF, I was concerned.  What had happened at BSF?  And why had it taken HOURS for him to finally tell me something that he was upset about?

Basically, the meltdown was VERY silly, to us, and was all about Bubbie not having a turn as a line leader yet.  BSF has been going on since September and he had yet to have a turn.

I knew that Bubbie had only missed two weeks since the beginning and his group is very small and I also knew that the women that chose line leaders had probably just forgotten.  Not to be mean, but they still call Bubbie by the wrong name every week!  But he was so upset, that I couldn't stand to not do anything.  As a Mama, I wanted to know why my child wasn't "good enough" to lead the group's line!

But, thankfully, instead of us brushing this aside, we listened and tried to explain that it was probably just an oversight.  We told him to just ask, next week, if he could have a turn and then we would know if there was a reason he wasn't getting chosen or perhaps they had a schedule that they followed.  Then, we suggested Bubbie pray and ask God to give Bubbie comfort and to not worry, to allow him to have a turn to be the line leader and if not, then for him to be OK with it and to still enjoy BSF.  Bubbie did so and we hugged and kissed our little worrier good-night.

I had COMPLETELY forgot about this until this morning, on our way to BSF.  I didn't want to remind him, I figured it wasn't a good idea.  So, I dropped him off with hugs and kisses and was thankful that he didn't bring it up.

When I went to pick up Bubbie afterwards, my excited little man, ran to the door and announced that HE was the LINE LEADER that day!  He was just chosen.  He never had to ask or bring it up.  When we got in the car, I snuggled with my eldest boy and reminded him of his prayer last week.

I had tears in my eyes as Bubbie nodded his read in remembrance of our prayer last week.  Not only did I get to witness our Savior comforting a small child and also answering a prayer, but Bubbie did too.  Bubbie smiled a sweet smile as I went on to tell Him that Jesus heard his prayer.  This simple and quick prayer from the heart of a sad little boy, pricked the heart of a big and wonderful God so much that He answered the prayer.  I have a feeling that the answer to that very insignificant prayer (in the grand scheme of things) wasn't just for Bubbie's benefit, but for mine as well.

Sometimes when life beats at you so much and you are standing in the midst of chaos, I sometimes wonder why God is so quiet.  So its these moments that I am finding myself more aware of lately.  Like I said, in life, these little answers to prayers seem so insignificant and medial, but to me and my family, its just another testimony of God's love for us....even in the midst of change and decisions and craziness and LIFE.  

Today in BSF, we read a Scripture that when summarized said, "we are so important to Him that our faces are drawn on his hands".  The God and Creator of the universe.  The One that placed each star in the Heavens and named each and every one of them, also has my face "tattoo-ed" (another version) on His hands. The One who knows EXACTLY how high each mountain is and set it into place, also, has me in His hands.

So, this afternoon, a 6 yr old boy and his Mama, so similar in our worries and emotions, both were able to witness our Heavenly Father's love.  For this, I am grateful.

Menu Plan Monday - Week of March 7, 2011

Monday evening-  Waffles with strawberries/ Lu- MNO

Tuesday evening-  Shepherd's pie and biscuits for the family/ Lu- Going away party

Wednesday evening-  Leftover shepherd's pie and biscuits

Thursday evening-  Annie's mac spruced up with chicken and broccoli Sides: rolls

Friday evening-  Homemade Pizza and breadsticks

Saturday lunch-  Leftovers
Saturday evening-  Family in town!

Sunday lunch-  Out after church
Sunday evening-  Burgers on the grill Sides: oven fries and baked beans (leftover from last night- ended up eating leftovers instead)


We had an EXTREMELY busy weekend.  We were in and out all day Saturday.  Then Hubbie worked from 9 am on Sunday until 5 am on Monday morning.  He only took 2 breaks- to get lunch and then to eat dinner and take us to get frozen yogurt.  It was a long day without Daddy while I tried to busy everyone.  And now we have a Very busy week.  Something every day and several days will be non-stop for this Mama.  I really hate those kind-of-days!  Anywho!  I have two nights away with other Mama's so that should be fun!  Grandparents are coming into town this weekend and we are excited to see them (Bubbie is reminding Peanut of how many days until they come!) Hope everyone has a great week!

Oh and don't forget Sunday is Daylight Savings Time!  Eeek!  I hate when we have to change our clocks- just do away with it!  Geesh!  But I am excited about the kids being able to stay outside longer in the afternoon/evenings.... At least I think I am.  Maybe not!  Time changes always does a number on our very scheduled sleepers!  ;o)

Amazing Love

I'm forgiven, because you were forsaken

I'm accepted, you were condemned

I'm alive and well, you're spirit is within me

Because you died and rose again

[ Lyrics

Amazing love, how can it be

That you my king would die for me

Amazing love, I know it's true

It's my joy to honor you

Amazing love, how can it be

That you My king would die for me

Amazing love, I know it's true

It's my joy to honor you

In all I do I honor you

I'm forgiven, because you were forsaken

I'm accepted, you were condemned

I'm alive and well, you're spirit is within me

Because you died and rose again

Kicks and Excitement

For about a week, baby girl's kicking has increased. I have felt like they were strong enough for the rest of the family to feel her, but every time I got to where the family was or got Hubbie to me, she would stop.  And as soon as they walked away, she would start back up.

On Thursday night(20 weeks 1 day), I finally got Hubbie to feel her kicking.  She was going to town.  On Friday morning, I woke up, rolled to my back and she was kicking away.  It didn't matter if I moved or talked or what.... she was KICKING away.  I was able to get Hubbie to feel her again.  And then we called the big boys in the bedroom so that they could feel.  Both felt her kick once, got excited and then left the room!  Bubbie asked if she was kicking to get out.  :o)  I told him no and that it wasn't time yet!

Baby Girl is definitely different than my others.  Bubbie only moved with sugar and I had to lay/sit really still.  I think it probably had something to do with him being breech the entire pregnancy and his head being up in my rib cage.  He also had hiccups a lot during the last few months.  Weirdest feeling EVER.  Peanut moved a little bit more than Bubbie, but wasn't as consistent as Buggy or Baby Girl.  With Peanut, it had to be very quiet for him to start going.  He ALWAYS had the hiccups, even more than Bubbie....  I was kinda getting  concerned about him because they were ALL THE TIME!  Buggy kicked so much sometimes that I just KNEW a foot was about to "come out".  He was SO low and was positioned, what seemed like, right on my bladder.  ALL THE TIME.  I still remember him going to town on my bladder and I was in the doctor's office.  I was still in the waiting room, waiting to be called back, after about 15 minutes and I had already gone to the restroom twice.  I felt like people would start starring at me if I got up to go again.  Thankfully, I was able to "hold it" and was called back to pee in the cup quickly.  GOODNESS!  How much pee can one child kick out!?!?!  We always said that with Buggy, we knew that he was going to be "a wild child" and he is definitely earning that name here lately.  CONSTANT movement and wearing out this Mama.  :o)

We are so thankful for this tiny and growing life inside my tummy.  I was thinking this morning that God's plan is so much better than mine and that I know our life is HIS design, and for us to be giving the glory to God.  With every kick, I am trying to etch the feeling into my memory....  since this is my last pregnancy, it is bittersweet.

Plans for 2011-2012 School Year

After many hours of research, reading comments and suggestions and quite a few conversations, I have finally decided on our curriculum for the 2011-2012 school year.  Because of baby dearest, who is due the middle of July, I want to get at LEAST 30 days of schooling in before her arrival.  I know it sounds crazy to most- school in the summer? but we plan to go to the pool and its really too hot to do much of anything outside, except for something that involves the water, so I figured if we did a few half days a week, at least we'd be ahead.  We are required to get in 180 days, 4 hrs a day, and after counting up days, if we were to start 6 weeks after baby's due date, we wouldn't be finishing up school until the end of June.  I have a feeling that by NEXT JUNE, we will ALL be ready for a summer's break!  And sadly, I also have a feeling that I won't be ready for the next school year, with 4 kiddos, home-schooling, nursing, etc, so I will definitely need the summer to get ready for the following year.

I recently told someone that I am so thankful that I can look back and see God's hand on our lives.  Seven months ago, as I struggled with the change of keeping Bubbie at home and not having the same extracurricular activities and as much coming and going, and lost in the friend shuffle, I wondered, "had I made the right decision?"  After months and MONTHS of praying and discussing schooling options, I had never felt led in any direction, I took a leap of faith and decided to school Bubbie at home.  I had quite a bit planned and had information overload so I decided to stop putting so much pressure on myself and just become a laid back homeschooler.  We signed up for activities and tried to keep busy.

We haven't been keeping track of days (since it isn't required).  I do try to do school the mornings that we don't have anything going on.  School only lasts a hour or two.  Sometimes Bubbie wants to do more, and we do more.  He enjoys learning and I am thankful for a little boy that challenges me.

But, back to the struggles of early on.....  I can see now that God was preparing up for this upcoming addition.  I see myself having grown in many areas and I am so thankful for this past year.  I still need PLENTY of work..... but the new laid back lifestyle has been good for so many reasons.  We've met many-a-new friends, enjoyed outings and park dates and lots and LOTS of afternoons spent outside digging in the dirt.  Not that digging in the dirt and meeting new people can't be done at a traditional school environment, but for us, the quality is key.  Not quantity.  Another lesson I have learned.  As well as slowing down and just taking life one day at a time....

So, after saying all that, here is what we will be doing with Bubbie (and some with Peanut) for his full first grade year.  We did a lot of 1st grade math and reading this year, but figured that if he is moves through these 1st grade books too quickly, we will just advance him to 2nd grade books towards the end of the year.  I'd rather KNOW that he is grounded in this principles before moving him ahead.


Bible:  Lampquill w/ everyone (love these studies!)


History:  The Story of the World and activity book (love this series and activity book!! so rich with history and lessons and fun things for the kids to remember the lessons by... warning, very Mommy involved!!) w/ Bubbie and Peanut


Science/Art/P.E./Sports:  Sign up for local homeschooling classes, sports teams, etc. w/ Bubbie and Peanut


Social Studies:  Celebrate holidays and seasons with hands-on projects, reading and exploring w/ everyone


Math:  Singapore Math with Bubbie/ Kumon workbook for Peanut


Phonics:  Continue with Explode the Code (online)/ Kumon workbooks for Peanut


Language Arts:  Read aloud from our master list (with Peanut and Bubbie), follow www.design-your-homeschool.com/language arts lesson plans (with Bubbie) that includes reading, comprehension, writing and drawing as well as Language Lessons for Little Ones (with Bubbie)


Other Kumon workbooks and lessons with Peanut will include tracing, cutting, pasting, letters, number and color recognition, doing flashcards and hopefully lots of playing and entertaining the "babies".  

We also plan to sign up with a local co-op that meets once a week, 3 x a month.  The preschoolers have a specialized learning center and the older kids have different classes that they attend.  If I remember correctly, Bubbie's age has Bible and P.E.  I look forward to becoming involved in a group like this and hopefully, sticking with it for years to come!   We will continue to stay involved in our current co-op that plans parties, park dates and field trips.  I have learned so much from the women- who are older and wiser than I- and quite a few have several years of homeschooling under their belts!  Wonderful fellowship and learning time for me when I am around them!  I do not plan on doing Bible Study Fellowship again next year.  This year has been WONDERFUL, but such a challenge to get to with three little ones.  Not sure I want to try with four, so I will take a year off.  If I find that I miss it too much, I will try to join in January, at nights, once the baby is a bit older.  I am sure I will miss it, especially once I hear what they will be studying!

I hope (and pray) I've covered it all!  If not, then I guess we'll play catch up or just not cover it this year!

Now, all that I need to do is order and start doing lesson plans!  That'll be a job and one that might require some time away from kiddos!  Wish me luck!

Bible Study Plans

Well, we are on lesson 22 of 28 lessons, I believe, so our study of Isaiah, in BSF, is almost over.  What a blessing this year has been!  Hard and definitely something I've had to pray about on a weekly basis.  "Lord, if you want us to go, get us there and if not, make something happen to stop us."  We have only missed two weeks, I think, one week I was sick and the other week my neck hurt like CRA-ZY!

Isaiah is a book that we often see scripture verses out of, but I have never studied it or even heard much about what the book was about.  I sure wish I had read it sooner, because man! what a powerful book.  Not sure which study I've learned more from, the study of Moses or the study of Isaiah.  I definitely love studying the Old Testament.  The year I did Matthew (at least I think it was Matthew), I wasn't fully engaged and had a lot on my plate, but I definitely didn't get as much out of it.  Again, partly because of me, I'm sure.  For me, going back and studying the characteristics of God has really made Him more real to me and taught me quite a lot.

After saying all that, this morning reaffirmed my decision to not do BSF next year.  I see young mother's bring their newborn babies and juggling several little ones, missing lecture and having a baby in their laps while trying to discuss, etc. and I just know that it will not be worth it for me.  I plan to sign up for some type of study/small group at church.  Again, I know it won't be the same, because of the type of study that BSF is.

If you aren't aware, BSF is a very strict and in depth Bible study.  The questions are probing,  no right or wrong answer, and sometimes you can spend quite a while on one question.  You need to have your questions done, not too late for discussion, etc.  Also, if you miss so many weeks, you are put as "in active" and lose your childcare spots.  I would hate to try to do BSF with a 1 mo old, a 2 yr old, an almost 4 yr old and an almost 7 yr old (geesh! sounds kinda scary when I say that!) and "waste" my spot and end up not being able to get my lessons done, not get to lessons on time, miss parts of lecture because I'm nursing, etc.  I've thought about getting a sitter for 2 of my 4, but again, just not sure I want to even try with a newborn nursing (I nurse on demand and don't usually schedule feed)

I know I will miss it (BSF) terribly.  I usually do.  Last year, I tried to do it from January until March or April and we were sick off and on so much, my attendance was hit or miss.  But I know if I miss it too much, I'll just sign up for their night sessions and take Bubbie with me and leave Daddy at home to wrangle the other 3 (hee hee!).  Until then, I'll enjoy and try to give the last few weeks my all, because frankly, this Mama is getting burnt out on BSF.  I'm learning a TON which is why I still am making an effort.  God is meeting me just where I am at, teaching all about Him and what I need for this time in my life.... probably why I'm not missing any, He knows I need it too much!  ;o)

As If....

As if you HAVEN'T heard enough about baby girl.......I'm gonna post about this darling child ONCE again! 

20 weeks- check!

coming home outfit- check!

lovely girly name picked out- check! 

first item sent off for monogramming- check!

TONS of sewing projects thought about, planned and prepped for- check!

Nana making itty bitty girl a quilt for her bed-  check! 

small cloth diapers bought- check!

secured a favorite photographer for maternity and newborn photos(who is also loaning us her crib!)- check!

Thanking God for this new life, an answer to prayer and aching to hold her-  check! check! check!

We are officially over half way through this pregnancy.  Since I always have scheduled c-sections(and have only made it to 1 of the 3) and have NEVER gone past 39 weeks, we will- Lord willing- see this little one in about 19 weeks!  

As with all of my pregnancies, I plan and think and try to prep as much as possible, as early as possible.  That's who I am.  A planner.  Organize life.  But the Lord graciously reminds me that I am not in control and that I must sit back and "watch His work", so I am learning to not be as busy prepping and enjoy His miracles and provisions.  No matter how little or how insignificant they may seem at the moment.... if I am too busy controlling, worrying and planning, I may not notice them.  

I am awe at the Lord's faithfulness to our family and KNOWING that we are in the palm of His hand comforts me in this time of change and uncertainty!  

Coming Soon....

Happy March!  YAY! for the winter months being "over" and looking forward to all that Spring brings (except for the pollen!)  The weather has stayed Spring-like and warm!  I have the fans going in every room almost all day and I went ahead and got out some Spring clothing for the kiddos.  They are now sporting quite a few scraps and bruises on their very white legs!  

Now that its March, we have less than three weeks until Hubbie runs his first Marathon.  Hubbie and I will be traveling to the race site and will spend a few days kid-free (thanks to Nana and Pops).  On our way home, we will be stopping at an IKEA.  Oh!  What fun I will have!  I have already made a list.... a small list....but a list.....  Hubbie is anxious to try their "famous swedish meatballs" which just makes me laugh!  I wanna go for the housewares that we need and what does my Hubbie want?  He wants to eat meatballs!  I will gladly buy him a plate for $2.99 so that I can shop with a full-stomached and probably VERY SORE Marathon-runner husband.

Here is what is on my list....  

I plan to purchase two of these wall lamps for my big boys.  I cannot find any this inexpensive at Lowes, Home Depot OR at yard sales.  I've been looking for over 9 mos.  My two older boys have different sleep patterns.  One likes a light one and the other wants it off pretty quickly.  As of right now, as a punishment, neither can have lights on......  that'll teach them to not wake their Mama up by fighting after she's gone to bed early!  ;o)...... but anyway, I think we can mount these on the kiddos wall, near the headboard of their bunk bed and hopefully this will help when we move Buggy into the room. 

These cute little children's cups are only $1.99 and we are constantly running out of cups without lids.  Since the Fall, we have begun to give the big boys cups without lids.  I don't know why I waited so long to do it, especially for Bubbie, but I guess I thought it was just safer to do a sippy cup all the time.  I've been so proud(I will eat my words today!) of both big boys.  We don't do topless cups all the time, since we only have a few(that I found 4 for the same price at a yard sale!), so I thought these were cute and cheaper than I can find in the stores.  

I also plan to look at bedding and duvet covers.  Nothing specific.  Probably won't buy anything, but I would really like to buy a cover for our bedding that we have now.  Its white and needs some color to match our window treatments. 

Also curtains and their fabric selection.  I have a mental image of the curtains that I want for Baby Girl's room and want to see if they have anything that I want.  

I want to look at their kids table.  My in laws bought Bubbie a child's table years ago with two chairs.  It lasted quite a while, but a few months ago, we had to throw it out since one of the legs on the table was cracked.  It was a great little table, but wasn't quite up to 3 little boys...with it having a cracked leg, etc, so we went ahead and threw it out.  Now I need to replace it.  I have been looking on craigslist, consignment sales, Goodwill and Ebay since September.  This isn't something I really want to spend the money on, but on a weekly basis I wish I still had a kids table.... especially when we invite friends over(with kiddos) and need extra seating.  I have seen IKEA's children's tables in people's homes and they look so durable and easy to clean.  

There are a few other pages in my catalog that are ear marked.  I have been saving my pennies for our trip and have been so frugal lately, that I'll probably walk out with only one or two items..... but it'll be fun to look without kiddos!!