tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-346872152012-02-16T08:33:50.780-08:00Welcome! You've stumbled upon Sean and Beth Alcazar’s “Alca-Blog.” We hope you enjoy our family’s many adventures through these random posts, fun photos and guest comments.Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.comBlogger2481100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-52306362817676475312011-07-15T07:30:00.000-07:002011-07-15T07:32:50.351-07:00

Happy birthday to YOU....Happy birthday to you...Happy birthday, dear JAIDEN,Happy birthday to you!My baby girl is 9-years old today! EEK! But what a beautiful, sweet, kind-hearted little girl she is! I sure am proud to be her momma!HAPPY BIRTHDAY, J!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-46102596162494061972011-05-16T13:23:00.001-07:002011-05-16T13:35:08.526-07:00

Sean likes to joke ALL the time about getting Iain started in the family lawn business... but NOT at this young age of 17 months! ;)Should I be worried? I mean, Iain IS already trying to walk in daddy's shoes! :)ON the other hand, he's showing interest in the piano, too, and that's a "mommy" thing. Too bad he just bangs the keys loudly.Of course, at this age, Iain bangs loudly on just about

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-9223394786282174652011-04-25T06:32:00.000-07:002011-04-25T06:35:52.886-07:00

And the winner of the HAPPY FAMILY giveaway (drawn at random by the random generator) is:number 5.... which is Corinne E! CONGRATS, Corinne! I will send the information I have to Clelia at Happy Family, and she will be contacting you about sending you your awesome goodies!Thanks to everyone who entered! :)

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-1493125422242189852011-04-04T17:17:00.000-07:002011-04-11T09:48:08.513-07:00

My now 16-month-old, Iain, is a picky eater. He seems to be following in my footsteps... eh, I mean tastebuds. He likes chocolately sweet things. And fruit. And bread. And when he does NOT like something, it is painfully clear. He pouts. He spits food out. And he swats at the spoon and throws his arms around. SO, I was quite interested to see how he would take to some food from Happy

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-9127570785831175082011-03-29T13:26:00.000-07:002011-03-29T13:30:55.866-07:00

The dogwoods are in bloom, and we have a bunch of the white-blossomed trees growing wild in the woods behind our house. They are BEAUTIFUL, and they look like snow-covered trees... in he middle of March! We also have a purposefully planted pink dogwood in the front yard. I can't say that I've ever been partial to them, but this tree is just doggone gorgeous! I can't get over how rich the

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-16247123791027862352011-03-16T10:16:00.001-07:002011-03-16T10:35:02.865-07:00

My friends, Season and Shelly, and I (AKA the "Real Housewives of Chelsea, Alabama") recently went to Do It Yourself Crafts to paint some plates. Yep... PLATES! I saw this adorable, little bluebird plate design on the DIYC Facebook page, and it was just too cute to pass up, especially since we got an amazing deal from Living Social! ;) So, we headed over one night... and had a blast!What

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-22428107395623514482011-02-15T12:22:00.000-08:002011-02-15T12:36:51.682-08:00

Those who know me well know that I do NOT like Valentine's Day. I just think it's a dumb holiday. Now, I'll buy the chocolates, cards, stuffed bears and candies for Jaiden and Iain and Sean. And I do love getting cards or chocolate... ANY time. ;) But I don't really plan anything special. Nor do I expect anything special! So, it's always fun to see what Sean has up his sleeve for such

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-45936110016502261282011-02-05T17:48:00.000-08:002011-02-05T17:54:26.935-08:00

My good friends (and neighbors, lucky me!), Season and Shelly and I had a girls' night IN the other night. We planned an evening of junk food, crafts... and makeovers! :) It was a whole lot of fun! We tried some "daring" new makeup looks, just for the heck of it. And we worked on scrapbooks and wedding favors for my sister-in-law's upcoming March wedding. We also had fun just being girls...

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-63942541936649501912011-01-24T07:10:00.000-08:002011-01-24T07:13:57.538-08:00

If you know me, you know that I LOVE Real Simple magazine. I have been an avid follower, fan and subscriber since the very first issue... and I am THRILLED beyond words that they chose ME to be in an article about being organized!You can see it now, in the February 2011 issue. (And you can read more about it HERE on my Get Neater blog!)

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-81208311232558206062011-01-10T15:24:00.000-08:002011-01-10T15:37:05.337-08:00

We were "snowed" in today... ok, we were slushed and iced in, but, nevertheless, the whole family had a day at home, together. Sean and Jaiden mainly played video games. And I mainly cleaned up the remaining Christmas stuff. And that's when the fun started.... first with empty boxes......and then with one of Iain's new toys!Ah, the simple pleasures!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-74658994914505404202011-01-03T07:50:00.000-08:002011-01-03T08:06:26.351-08:00

Jaiden's class had a Christmas party before their vacation started, and I helped with the "theme." I chose snowmen, because I discovered some really cute, not-too-difficult-to-make decorations!First, I made some snowball garland using paper cutouts with pretty Christmas paper and snowman stamps strung on some different lengths of thread with white pom poms (snowballs). I guess I could have used

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-43595637786565839102010-12-29T12:21:00.000-08:002010-12-29T12:24:49.583-08:00

Just kind of a fun thing: my LoveTubs made it to the December issue of Birmingham Magazine!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-8396414271080655942010-12-15T18:47:00.000-08:002010-12-15T18:54:41.824-08:00

I've always known that our washing machine and/or dryer "eat" our socks. I can't count how many socks have just disappeared over the years. But with a baby in the house, socks now disappear on a daily basis! Usually, Iain pulls his socks off and leaves them on the floor. But I guess he got a bit more creative of late! The other day, I noticed that he had pulled his socks of and was

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-49780045671430046382010-12-13T08:22:00.001-08:002010-12-13T08:27:31.066-08:00

So... I'm thinking that Iain is NOT a fan of Santa Claus! Can you tell from this picture??!!!?!?!Jaiden's picture turned out perfectly lovely! And she was VERY excited that the "real" Santa Claus came to our neighborhood this year for pictures! She even looks like she's matching the Santa look, with the red top and black belt! GREAT picture!But... Iain was just not a happy camper. He was

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-9171162220731309922010-11-30T08:03:00.000-08:002010-11-30T08:06:34.926-08:00

It might be a bit cheesy, but this little poem won me a family 4 pack to enjoy the day at Desoto Caverns! Yay! :)OUR THANKSGIVINGTurkey, potatoes, cheesecake and dressing, good times with family (all who are a blessing!).Watching the parade… and a game or two, taking a nap, enjoying “nothing to do!”Visiting more relatives, ‘cause our family has grown, enjoying traditions… and making some of our

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-2045023708053589162010-11-16T14:13:00.000-08:002010-11-18T06:13:08.817-08:00

Oh, yes... It's back! I have another fun, little collection of oddities from my beloved Etsy. So if you truly are looking for that really UNIQUE Christmas gift, well, then... it does not get much more unique than the rare -- and sometimes awkward -- doo-dads and what-nots you'll see here!ENJOY!1. First up, we have something that's just ideal for potty trainees in training or perhaps for those

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-37210484122528619542010-10-28T08:10:00.000-07:002010-10-28T08:17:22.975-07:00

Like a moth to a candle... Iain is drawn to our refrigerator.Every time I open the door, he scrambles over to take a peek. I'm not sure, exactly, what the allure is... except that the door is usually closed, so it's just a big, boring black box most of the day.Then again, there is that bright light... and all that food! :)Of course, it's not enough to be outside looking in.... it's MUCH better

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-33183915561115507992010-10-25T07:27:00.000-07:002010-10-25T08:27:44.783-07:00

Several of the girls in my neighborhood and I have been playing Bunco for over a year now. And this October 19, was MY night to host. So, we decided to have a little Halloween fun!I dressed up in pirate garb, and for decorations, I used black tablecloths and Halloween-themed napkins, cups and plates. For our snacks, I made brain goo salad, putrid punch, monster fingers, mini mummies and

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-5937669011908941392010-10-21T10:51:00.001-07:002010-10-21T10:53:07.224-07:00

A friend of mine has a WONDERFUL blog, entitled, Southern Hospitality, and she is currently hosting a special Uppercase Living giveaway for me, since I am a sponsor! Please stop by and check out her inspirational and creative posts, and feel free to enter the contest! Just click HERE!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-75802348651730009932010-10-20T11:12:00.000-07:002010-10-20T11:21:44.079-07:00

When Jaiden was about 3-years old, we decided we'd bake a "birthday" cake for Jesus as one of our delicious Christmas desserts... and possibly as a new family tradition. My aunt had actually done this before, and I thought it was a cute idea, especially for Jaiden, so she could learn more about the true meaning behind our celebration of December 25!Of course, I wasn't quite prepared for my

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-66562540109352719172010-10-12T06:32:00.000-07:002010-10-12T06:49:04.466-07:00

Sean and I had the privilege of participating (as sponsors, not riders!) in the 2nd annual Dixie Divas "Revvin' For Research" on Saturday, October 9.As you know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the Dixie Divas are dedicated to making a strong contribution toward a cure.The event involved hundreds of motorcycle riders enjoying a great ride (with the final stop and

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-30855152843229576082010-10-11T07:12:00.000-07:002010-10-11T09:43:10.190-07:00

Fishing for babies isn't all that easy. To land that elusive 20 pounder, you have to have just the right lures... and a lot of patience. Nine-month olds, especially, can be quite finicky, and they don't always hit the same lure twice. So be prepared. Do your homework. And have a good crankbait.That's right: a crankbait!Of course, the sheer variety of crankbaits is quite astronomical.

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-52290333456372475442010-10-02T16:45:00.000-07:002010-10-02T16:51:51.541-07:00

I am so thrilled to say that my sister-in-law and I were part of a flash mob today at the Galleria... in the food court... at noon!About 200 folks participated, and we danced our little hearts out to "Thriller" as part of "The Thrill of saving a life" campaign for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama!!You can watch the YouTube video of the flash mob HERE:As well, check out the BCRFA

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-87483908487010364862010-09-09T07:18:00.000-07:002010-09-09T07:33:55.319-07:00

Many of y'all know that I am an independent demonstrator with Uppercase Living! I LOVE the products and host open house and catalog parties, make crafts and place orders all the time! But... I have never shown y'all some of the Uppercase Living products I have in my home.... So, here is a brief tour of some of my expressions and decor.This is my very first expression. It is a sage green saying

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-40531340876493572902010-09-08T12:18:00.001-07:002010-09-08T12:20:36.477-07:00

Support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. Buy your awareness "ribbons" now, and be ready for October -- breast cancer awareness month! http://supportthinkpink.blogspot.com

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-77463820494850785492010-09-02T18:21:00.001-07:002010-09-02T18:27:47.569-07:00

I hate fondant. It's aesthetically pleasing, but it's one of those things that you discreetly peel off and shove under your napkin so you don't actually have to eat it. Yuck.At least, that's how I used to think.... until a friend of mine (and master cake decorator) introduced me to marshmallow fondant. YUM! This stuff is GREAT! Nothing like its waxy, tasteless counterpart! :)That being said,

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-73236865936230038212010-08-26T06:25:00.001-07:002010-08-26T06:27:43.678-07:00

It's time to vote in the August craft challenge! Just click HERE to go to the voting page, and vote for Iain's "animal print frame"!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-48326261826976360492010-08-25T11:34:00.000-07:002010-08-25T12:05:10.846-07:00

When I received the packet of items for Christy Nelson's August Craft Challenge, I ripped open the envelope, dumped out the contents, and said -- out loud -- "What in the WORLD?" I was not prepared for the random assortment enclosed: some black tulle/material; a baggie of blue beads; a baggie of random hardware; some super sticky, "extreme" adhesive squares; and a brown parchment-type paper with

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-25666624654084308632010-08-23T14:11:00.000-07:002010-08-23T14:16:16.516-07:00

Looks like another one of my "LoveTubs" made it to an etsy treasury entitled "Fun, Football and Tailgaiting!"! But I am a bit torn on this one. While it's great that my "Roll Tide" tub is featured, I feel like I have betrayed my team. Sorry, Auburn. Looks like Alabama is already on a roll....You can visit my etsy store and see MORE LoveTubs and other crafty doo-dads by clicking HERE!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-11562236400587549472010-08-12T09:15:00.000-07:002010-08-12T09:21:48.517-07:00

I'm going to have to do some back-tracking here soon, since I've missed out on some important posts, but I still wanted to capture the official "first day of school" photo... and actually post it on the first day of school!So..... here she is: my little third grader! Wow. And here's to a great new school year!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-70567803924735792262010-08-10T08:01:00.000-07:002010-08-23T14:16:29.149-07:00

Yay! I've been making clipboards to get ready for school, and one of them (A+ Teacher) made it to an Etsy treasury!You can visit my etsy store and see MORE LoveTubs and other crafty doo-dads by clicking HERE!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-65970007638654790312010-08-04T08:10:00.000-07:002010-08-23T14:16:42.817-07:00

...to have another LoveTub featured on an Etsy treasury! :) Hooray! :)You can visit my etsy store and see MORE LoveTubs and other crafty doo-dads by clicking HERE!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-84547745944690481652010-07-19T10:24:00.000-07:002010-07-19T10:41:44.720-07:00

We lost our sweet little Yorkie this morning at 8:23 am.He had been acting strange on and off for about a week or so, and over the last several days -- despite visits to 3 different vets -- he got progressively worse. And no one could tell us what was wrong with him. He was lethargic. He was wobbly and limping. He would cry and whimper in pain for "no reason." He would jump and run around

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-47097177569211893522010-07-13T13:00:00.000-07:002010-07-13T13:05:58.499-07:00

I have been drooling over the gorgeous personalized pillows on Etsy that the clever creator made by sewing buttons in the shape of an initial. SO darling! But a bit expensive, too....Then I had an idea: I already had a simple, striped pillow that matches our bed skirt, but it was a little plain and in need of something.... and I ended up with over 100 brownish and neutral-colored buttons for

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-16833830700046738252010-07-07T18:48:00.000-07:002010-08-23T14:16:58.827-07:00

I was just featured on Etsy again in yet another treasury, "my favorite four letter word"! :) That's so exciting!As well, I've finally made my first few online sales! (Of course, those who live near me don't have to worry about shipping and such, so I can create a cheaper, custom listing if y'all want anything!)You can visit my etsy store and see MORE LoveTubs and other crafty doo-dads by

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-60898901144212315292010-07-02T08:14:00.000-07:002010-07-02T08:16:16.864-07:00

Here's cutie-pie Iain in his Mickey Mouse pirate hat! :) Yo ho ho... and a bottle of formula!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-60534278860413486602010-07-02T06:35:00.000-07:002010-07-02T06:41:59.144-07:00

Thanks, guys, for the votes! :)I did not win the overall challenge (you can see a photo of the winner, below), BUT... I won the blog part of Christy's giveaway, which means I get a FREE craft challenge packet for the month of August! SO.... looks like I will be crafting again. We'll see what fun and unusual items come with this challenge!Should be fun!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-14951491310180077782010-06-30T13:35:00.000-07:002010-06-30T13:41:16.771-07:00

Well, the candle holder I made for the June craft challenge is now up on Christy Nelson's site, and people can vote on their favorite craft item!I must say, however, that some of the entries for this month confuse me a bit, since I stuck to the bag of craft supplies and did not throw in any other crafty things.... so you'll have to look pretty hard for the pill bottle, clay, raffia and glitter

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-10650214432750992032010-06-29T07:23:00.000-07:002010-08-23T14:17:24.052-07:00

Y'all know I love Etsy....Well, I opened up my very own Etsy shop (BSimpleCrafts) a few weeks ago.... AND one of my "LoveTubs" was featured on "Honey, it's a BeeBee Shower."Of course, I have yet to make a sale (online, that is), but it was way fun to be noticed on Etsy! :)You can visit my etsy store and see MORE LoveTubs and other crafty doo-dads by clicking HERE!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-14538149064191080932010-06-28T14:08:00.000-07:002010-06-28T14:12:18.687-07:00

Wow.I have the two cutest guys living in my house!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-53137856384923109232010-06-19T11:45:00.000-07:002010-06-19T12:43:45.107-07:00

I discovered a really fun craft blog, Christy Nelson's site, by happy accident a few weeks ago. I noticed that she has a store on etsy in which she sells "craft challenge packets." Of course, I HAD to find out what that was all about! :)The basics of this whole craft adventure comprise the following: for $5, you can purchase a craft challenge packet for the upcoming month, and you get a

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-75849655964272662002010-06-09T06:44:00.001-07:002010-06-09T06:48:26.567-07:00

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-63022855908611247882010-06-08T08:21:00.000-07:002010-06-08T08:31:54.062-07:00

I don't know WHY I have been adding extra projects to my never-ending list, of late, but I just got a wild hair, I suppose, and recently decided to paint Jaiden's room. (I just painted our tiny bathroom a few weeks ago!)Well, I didn't paint her ENTIRE room. I just did a little "decorative" painting! I had spotted this really cute stripe technique in an Uppercase Living idea a while ago:So I

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-62887994469493645212010-06-01T07:59:00.000-07:002010-06-01T08:10:25.912-07:00

I enjoy crafts and love to get things in the mail, so I've thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the Swap-Bot community, where you can join random swaps -- for just about anything! -- and make or buy things to send and swap!For example, so far, I've swapped things like lip gloss, note cards, hot chocolate, candy, bibs, letters and e-mails with folks from all over the world! Just for fun!And two of

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-64002929886177777022010-05-28T07:37:00.000-07:002010-05-28T10:16:38.794-07:00

As an independent demonstrator with Uppercase Living, I've decided to get a bit crafty and host a "project night" in June. We will be making party tubs, and I just created one yesterday as an example. I think it turned out cute! (The photo does not do it justice, though... it's a bright yellow and so very cheery!)The flexible, colorful 5.7 gallon tubs are simple to make and are SO handy --

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-15319860372843989202010-05-25T13:21:00.000-07:002010-05-25T13:34:31.475-07:00

Sean and I have some bad hair. And I don't mean "cool" bad... I'm talking plain old bad! There's just no escaping it. We are both in desperate need of haircuts (and actual hair styles) right now... but, with little time, energy or desire to make the appointment and go visit the hair stylist, we look a little, well.... a bit disheveled!At least we're cool with it!Here we are showing off our

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-80005981293396662362010-05-12T14:02:00.000-07:002010-05-12T14:14:03.319-07:00

My mom got a cure little Mickey Mouse shirt for Iain, and it fits him now. And it is pretty darn cute! Here are some shots of our little Iain Mouse!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-19526694819934204092010-05-01T10:57:00.000-07:002010-05-01T11:30:59.492-07:00

I am a BIG fan of Etsy. Some may say that I'm an addict. I don't think it's become QUITE that big of a problem.... yet.... but I do admit that I love looking through the site and adding things to my "favorites."I'm not a seller on the site (not yet anyway!), but I have definitely been a buyer! :) I have purchased homemade bibs and burp cloths for Iain, shirts and onesies for Jaiden and Iain,

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-39479704825689335662010-04-29T12:14:00.001-07:002010-04-29T12:29:40.464-07:00

We have an eensy weensy little hall bath. I mean, it's small. And while it definitely serves its purpose, I can't say I've ever been proud to show people to this WC! :) So I decided to paint it. Well, let me clarify: I decided to do a decorative paint technique in there. I figured, it's small. It won't be that big of a deal! It won't take long!Well, it didn't take too long (about 3 1/2

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-1187315257877578682010-04-18T06:48:00.000-07:002010-04-18T06:50:00.169-07:00

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-25945885150699775952010-04-09T09:09:00.001-07:002010-04-09T09:28:16.139-07:00

I got Jaiden and Iain "matching" chocolate bunny shirsts for Easter.... and, of course, I had to get some photos.I must admit, this photo session went a TAD better than the Christmas attempt... but, with two kids, it sure takes a LOT of shots to get just a few pictures that work! :)Here is my favorite of my two little bunnies together... (again, Iain with that pacifier.... oh, well!)And here are

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-35310580206232321722010-04-07T07:21:00.000-07:002010-04-07T07:23:26.938-07:00

I put Iain in his bouncer yesterday.... he's still a bit too small, but he pushed those little legs down and got some motion going! I guess we'll try again in a few months! ;)

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-30944876642437679742010-03-24T13:18:00.000-07:002010-03-24T14:25:54.040-07:00

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-46700432023212504892010-03-09T13:26:00.000-08:002010-03-09T13:31:13.252-08:00

***********Sorry -- baby pictures alert!**************I can't help it; he's just too darn cute -- awake... or asleep! :)

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-86715390924685309732010-03-06T12:44:00.001-08:002010-03-06T12:54:35.966-08:00

I took a few pictures of Iain in his adorable little blue teddy bear outfit, one that is now getting too small for him! :(And I captured a few cute shots... including those of him NOT wanting to participate anymore. FUNNY!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-84307536431892596212010-03-06T07:07:00.000-08:002010-03-06T07:14:53.012-08:00

If you recall, I won an AMAZING Earthborn Pottery set on my friend Rachel's blog last year! In fact, that was the way she and I began our friendship! We met "IRL" for lunch when she presented me with my prize!Well... Rachel is now doing another giveaway, and I thought I'd mention it here, in case any of you would like to have an opportunity to add a beautiful Earthborn Pottery bowl to your

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-53757570951597539922010-03-04T14:23:00.000-08:002010-03-04T14:27:41.959-08:00

Jaiden played basketball again this year on a team of all little boys.... She had a good time, though! And I know she is going to be quite a star one day! Here is the team photo for this year. Always funny, since boys aren't always the most eager to pose for photos!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-11129080314635319332010-03-01T07:35:00.000-08:002010-03-01T07:43:42.267-08:00

I can't help it. Call it an obsession. Call it a mom bias. Call it baby-itis. I just can't get enough of Iain's cute little smile.... and those dimples! So, if you are bored with cute baby faces, feel free to read another, less-baby-centric post! ;) If you, like me, just can't help but smile when you see those little eyes light up, then, by all means, stay right here and scroll down!Here is our

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-85135761195858015142010-02-22T12:19:00.000-08:002010-02-23T10:25:37.746-08:00

I am in a swap on Swap-Bot that shares 50 of my favorite things with 10 folks. I thought that instead of writing a boring, old Word file or sending just an e-mail list, it might be just as easy and a bit more fun to write-up my favorites here and let my swap partners check them out.So, here it goes!1. color: sage green2. flower: daffodils3. thing that flies: butterfly4. animal: manatee (They are

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-78414646357859696782010-02-17T07:43:00.000-08:002010-02-17T07:51:19.540-08:00

Our little boy is not so stubborn with his smiles anymore. In fact, he smiles a LOT... and he laughs, too!Here are just a few of his adorable smiley shots from the last few days. (He's showing off BOTH dimples in many of these pictures! I LOVE it!)

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-32483040784767929522010-02-10T11:51:00.000-08:002010-02-10T11:59:48.777-08:00

I have started a new blog. (Yes, yet another thing for me to do!) And I need YOUR help! You see, right now, my new blog is kind of, well... naked. There is no header and no background. No elements to make it fun and interesting.... That's where YOU come in! Please take a moment to stop by my new blog and VOTE for your favorite background. (That will be the starting point for the blog design

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-8758648774731666792010-02-09T14:04:00.000-08:002010-02-10T06:59:09.932-08:00

Jaiden recently brought home an assignment sheet instructing her/us to decorate a Valentine's Day box for school... and to be creative. I immediately thought of making a castle out of a shoebox, maybe throwing in a few toilet paper rolls, some fabric, some glitter, and voila! A creative Valentine's Day CASTLE box!BUT, to be sure that Jaiden was an active participant in her assignment, I threw

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-72238096345418160722010-02-02T07:27:00.000-08:002010-02-02T12:27:02.733-08:00

OK. First of all, I'm not a great photographer. Now, if I had an awesome camera, I could fudge my skills just a little bit... but since I have a pretty average, not-too-impressive camera, my photos are also pretty average and not too impressive!Second, I attempted to take these photos when Iain was in a good mood. He was content and alert BEFORE the photo session. But as soon as I got him

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-87719897661702491872010-01-30T15:54:00.001-08:002010-01-30T15:59:44.588-08:00

Ok, ok.... I know this is SO late, but here is one of my favorite photos of my two sweet children in their Christmas best! This was Iain's first Christmas, of course, so he wasn't quite as cooperative as Jaiden was with the picture taking (hence the pacifier).(It took FOREVER to get this shot, by the way.... but I'll save that for another post, when I have a little time to show all the "fun" we

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-85316047904773367232010-01-29T13:22:00.000-08:002010-01-29T13:27:14.433-08:00

Here is the baby announcement I created for Iain... using digital scrapbook elements. I printed them out and pasted them on brown, green or cream cardstock... of course, you can't see that part in this picture, but you get the idea! ;)

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-80953925567733601992010-01-26T09:29:00.000-08:002010-01-26T09:43:25.895-08:00

It's official. Iain cracks me up.He makes the funniest noises and silliest faces, and he is SO wiggly! (He was wiggly when he was "baking," too, so I guess this excessive movement should come as no surprise!) One of the most entertaining faces that Iain currently makes is when he squinches up just the right side, half-closing one eye, which sort of resembles a pirate... or, at least, that's

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-42011725042474515942010-01-23T12:38:00.001-08:002010-01-23T13:03:35.587-08:00

Iain is nearly 5 weeks old, and I've seen a few dimpled smiles come and go.... Of course, as most mommies know, a good majority of those smiles had more to do with tummy issues and gas pains than with actual moments of hilarity or joy. As well, a large handful of those remaining smiles appeared while Iain was in the midst of sound sleep. But -- hey -- I'll take what I can get until the REAL

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-85744155557816031902010-01-22T08:10:00.000-08:002010-01-22T08:48:05.621-08:00

OK, this isn't actually a few words from my "sponsors," so to speak. But I wanted to take a few moments to share some "business news." So please bear with me!As you may or may not know, I recently started up TWO new home-based businesses -- B's Purses and Shure Pets -- which will hopefully enable me to spend more time with my newly expanded family, meet financial needs (since the status of my

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-13803682218431306532010-01-13T10:24:00.001-08:002010-01-13T10:25:57.545-08:00

To complete the set of pictures, I had to take one with Sean and our little guy!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-72433166721374815932010-01-05T16:41:00.000-08:002010-01-05T16:43:51.205-08:00

Jaiden and IainMommy and Iain

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-11053792478059969582010-01-03T17:42:00.000-08:002010-01-04T09:39:07.229-08:00

You probably don't want to hear about Iain's birth story... BUT, isn't this what all mommies do -- share the long, drawn-out, gut-wrenching details!? Either that, or it's just something we mommies have to somehow capture before every last scrap of that memory has disintegrated into the oblivion.... (Otherwise, would we go through the torture again? And again?!)At any rate, I'll make this

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-28148572166611862542010-01-01T17:16:00.000-08:002010-01-01T17:19:10.003-08:00

Born: Tuesday, December 22, 2009Time: 7:06 amWeight: 8 lbs., 13 oz.Length: 21 inches

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-9317278863706810972009-12-19T09:01:00.000-08:002009-12-19T09:50:29.187-08:00

Jaiden has been taking piano lessons for a few months now and recently had her very first opportunity to play in front of a crowd -- at the Wynfrey, no less!A few fellow students and her piano teacher had a little mini Christmas concert at the grand piano in the foyer.Jaiden played "Frosty the Snowman," with her teacher playing the accompaniment. She did an OUTSTANDING job! We are so proud

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-42934047585296361202009-12-15T09:57:00.001-08:002009-12-15T10:12:26.257-08:00

The fifth annual Christmas cookie swap party took place at our house recently, despite a lack of vim and vigor for the Christmas decorating this year... being 9 months pregnant and all! ;)BUT, we all know, the cookie swap is about THE COOKIES! And there were a LOT of delicious ones, as usual!There were also fun games, story swapping and munching on goodies.Cookie swap "newbie," Susan, won for

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-90382771169238776672009-12-10T12:48:00.000-08:002009-12-10T12:54:01.408-08:00

Friday, December 4, brought together a very merry bunch of my neighbors (tacky Christmas wear and all!) for a first-ever Christmas ornament exchange party!We "oooohed" and "ahhhed" over the gorgeous Christmas decorations at our hostess' home while sharing stories, listening to Christmas music and munching on a variety of home-baked goodies. (And most of us, including me, decided that we should

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-22074627804900421622009-12-09T06:53:00.000-08:002009-12-09T07:06:32.884-08:00

Ah, yes...the yearly tradition continues.... the ridiculously crowded lunch room, standing room only, with bored, antsy toddlers and pre-schoolers running amok and parents straining to catch a glimpse of their children and snap a few decent photos without capturing someone else's head, arms or video equipment in the shot....I'm talking about Jaiden's Christmas program at school. As usual, we

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-76935755210490961382009-12-08T09:50:00.001-08:002009-12-08T10:07:27.483-08:00

No, I have not fallen off the face of the planet.... and no, the baby is not quite here yet! So, what's my excuse for being absent from blog world? Nothing really..... (Can I blame it on pregnancy in general!?!)At any rate, just give me a chance to play a little catch up with some random thoughts, pictures and more.... starting with THIS shot of a unique creation that a balloon artist made for

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-73946844871008374772009-11-20T07:33:00.000-08:002009-11-20T07:51:17.546-08:00

I got to paint the town red... ok, I got to pain my canvass a little bit red, mixed with some other stuff... the other night when some of us girls from the neighborhood went to Sips n' Strokes! Except for Season, it was the first trip for the rest of us, so Cathryn, Tina, Cara and I were not quite sure what to expect. In preparation, I made sure I had plenty of caffeine and sugar... since the

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-80557413496744997282009-11-19T07:06:00.000-08:002009-11-19T09:21:34.602-08:00

I admire my hubby a lot and am proud of him for MANY reasons. One of those reasons is his amazing martial arts skills (said in Napoleon Dynamite voice). Currently, Sean is involved with Aikido... "a Japanese art of self-defense that employs joint locks, holds and pressure points and uses the principles of nonresistance in order to debilitate the strength of the opponent." And he recently

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-76253729996970533432009-11-12T07:45:00.000-08:002009-11-12T08:29:25.467-08:00

My sister-in-law, Corinne, along with my mom, mom-in-law and friends Season, Stacie and Fran threw us a baby shower on Sunday!It was SO much fun!Here we are, all smiles... and, thankfully, not too much belly in the shot! ;)Here is the baby shower cake... (made by Season; it's supposedly me -- with a much cuter pregnant figure than I'm sporting; it says "Bye bye belly... Hello Iain!"Isn't is

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-50792583750575954022009-11-10T09:29:00.000-08:002009-11-10T09:58:36.036-08:00

So... I went to the pet store yesterday to purchase some new fish. I had noticed that our little school of neon tetras was down to one. Well, schooling fish are not fond of being by their lonesomes, so I decided to pick up 6 new tetras to keep the "lonely only" company. Well, that's where I made my first mistake. Sean usually picks out the new fish and buys them, but I was right next to the

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-59176508912981290432009-11-05T07:53:00.000-08:002009-11-05T08:00:00.933-08:00

My neighborhood is trying to raise money to build a common area/playground… something that hass been in the works for several years now. Since it’s such a dog-gone grrrrreat cause, Rowdy and Teddy thought they would jump in and help!Now through Friday, November 13, 25% of sales from their Shure Pets orders will go to a special fundraiser! So check out the cat-a-log, and make your

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-15384331960288148642009-11-02T08:51:00.001-08:002009-11-02T09:20:21.503-08:00

Halloween in our neighborhood was quite a treat this year! ;)It began with a Halloween Parade, and except for the annoying drizzle on and off in the morning, everyone had a great time!There were probably about 50 kids dressed up in their Halloween gear, marching down one of neighborhood's streets to a dead end for some crafts, snacks and a costume contest!Jaiden chose to dress up as a "purple

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-62566826913862660302009-10-29T06:43:00.000-07:002009-10-29T09:28:13.468-07:00

Signe Elise Voreland, 91, died Oct. 27, 2009, at Golden Living in Riverchase, Ala., with family by her side.She was born June 10, 1918, in Årendal, Norway, a small village in the Southern part of the country, where she grew up, attended school and lived most of her early life. Mrs. Voreland was a spry, clever child who forged notes to avoid dentist visits and paid for candy on “credit,” long

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-9350805950130093842009-10-21T07:40:00.000-07:002009-10-21T08:06:32.666-07:00

I haven't said anything on my blog about being sick (for over 10 days now), but... I've been sick (for over 10 days now). Fun, eh? Especially being sick AND pregnant (or is that sick of being pregnant.... AND sick.. and pregnant?!?). ANYWAY, I didn't say anything because being sick is not all that thrilling. And the details aren't all that fun, either. Although, I must say, I have become

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-77570881776972379712009-10-19T11:30:00.000-07:002009-10-20T07:13:56.376-07:00

Maybe they felt left out....Maybe they were bored....Maybe they have way too much time on their hands....While I can't pawsitively verify the reasoning behind it, I can tell you with certainty that my dogs, Rowdy and Teddy, have now ventured out on their own -- without leashes -- to start their very own blog... and their very own company! (And, yes, you can actually have your very own pet party.

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-69989653408783862982009-10-15T09:43:00.000-07:002009-10-15T09:47:12.134-07:00

Well, there you have it! Jaiden lost her other "big" front tooth this week, and now she has that cute little gap smile that kids have around this age! It's funny how different she looks without those pearly whites! How long does it take for the permanent ones to come in, anyway? Will we still be singing "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth" by springtime?!?!?! ;)

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-58797190818462515622009-10-08T07:01:00.000-07:002009-10-08T07:35:29.563-07:00

We're having a baby in a few months, and I was wondering if it was time to panic yet.I mean, the whole entire pregnancy (which lasts about 10 months, not 9, thank you very much), you wait and wait.... and wonder and hope.... and think and ponder.... and moan and whine... oops! Ok, so there IS some moaning and whining that goes along with the amazing amount of pain and discomfort -- emotionally

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-80963750755088208812009-10-07T14:21:00.001-07:002009-10-07T14:22:51.406-07:00

This is what I feel like I'm looking at when I look down....

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-34499730021367200312009-10-01T06:46:00.000-07:002009-10-01T06:51:37.957-07:00

Ok; I missed posting this grand event on the actual day that Jaiden lost the tooth (Tuesday).... then I missed Wordless Wednesday, so you'll just have to excuse me for throwing in a random "Toothless Thursday" today! ;)BTW -- Jaiden has lost two teeth already, but this is the first one to go on the top... so she is now sporting quite a nice gap! The one next to it is threatening to make its

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-63752189732555126542009-09-28T10:39:00.000-07:002009-09-28T11:16:25.451-07:00

So... I just have to get this off my chest... (or, in this case, could it possibly be "off my belly"?!?!) I must admit: I do NOT like being pregnant. Don't be mad. I LOVE that we're having a baby. SO THAT is NOT the problem. I also am thrilled that we're bringing a little boy (AKA "Sean clone") into the world. THAT's exciting!!! AND... I am quite entertained by -- and enamored with --

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-41223820460126403242009-09-28T09:12:00.001-07:002009-09-28T09:15:08.845-07:00

Thanks so much to everyone who participated in my ONLINE launch party with B’s Purses! I hope it generated some excitement and allowed you to get a peek at the wonderful products!If anyone is interested in designing your very own bag or hosting a purse party (to earn discounts and free purses), just let me know! And for those of you who live close to Birmingham, be looking for details about my “

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-22186990446802773612009-09-26T13:52:00.000-07:002009-09-28T11:17:17.442-07:00

I captured a quick shot of Teddy in one of my B's Purses... not sure he's all that thrilled, but he looked TOO cute!Teddy hopes you enter the giveaway for my online launch party... and don't forget to check out the B's Purses website and catalog!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-84311835875926648602009-09-21T08:21:00.000-07:002009-09-26T08:26:36.425-07:00

In celebration of my three years of blogging (ah, yes…the first bloggy anniversary I’ve actually, sort of, remembered), I was thinking about having some sort of giveaway… to follow in the footsteps of some of my favorite fellow bloggers and to commemorate the special occasion! Well, since I just started my own business with B’s Purses and plan on hosting my online launch party all this weekend (

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-60522972194749636372009-09-17T11:22:00.000-07:002009-09-21T06:39:35.224-07:00

I'm just a'buzz with excitement to be a new independent consultant with B's Purses. I've always loved bags, totes, purses and handbags... and I am thrilled to be a part of a company that lets YOU design your very own!I'm sure you already have bags that you love, but for a one-of-a-kind item made exactly to your taste, you can create it yourself! B's Purses lets you choose the shape (including

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-4461718119262680262009-09-14T12:26:00.001-07:002009-09-14T12:28:49.690-07:00

I have to share a bit about the, uh, little "disagreement" I've been having with AT&T over the last year or so....Imagine my surprise when I received a letter from AT&T. Oh, but this letter was not just the average, annoying junk mail letter or those sneaky deals and marketing ploys that show up every other week in the mailbox. This letter was different... because THIS piece of literature (which

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-7380957696437239322009-09-03T10:31:00.000-07:002009-09-03T10:43:40.540-07:00

Tuesday, September 1, marked the very first night for Bunco in my neighborhood. Our group, which included a few Bunco veterans and mostly "newbies," met up at my house for a lively evening of food, conversation, competition and prizes! After learning the rules, making a few trial runs and working out all the specifics, there were three very active tables of cheers and chatter along with some

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-27042165138141888692009-08-26T08:44:00.001-07:002009-08-26T08:46:31.757-07:00

Just a few pictures of Jaiden in her classroom and with her second-grade teacher!

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-57837564628738199482009-08-24T07:59:00.000-07:002009-08-24T08:42:39.053-07:00

Oops! I am just now getting around to some photos that were on my mom's camera and figured, hey -- better late than never, right?!At any rate, I just wanted to post a few pics from my birthday (which was in June) and Sean's birthday (which was in July) before we got around to September, Christmas, the new baby or even next year's birthday events! Ha-ha!For my birthday, my family and I ended up

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34687215.post-5852602774731784382009-08-18T13:23:00.000-07:002009-08-18T13:41:54.826-07:00

It's official. My baby is now in second grade! "All grown up" with her new haircut, Jaiden excitedly made her way to her new classroom, found her desk and showed me around, assuring me that she knew what to do and that school this year would be fun."Fun for whom?" I wondered... every mom knows the bitter-sweet tug on the heartstrings as you cheer for your child as she gets bigger, learns more,

Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12887675399476057016noreply@blogger.com1