Love and Projects

Valentine's 2012

2012-02-17T00:01:00.002-06:00

What can I say about Valentine's Day?

Although our plans changed several times, it was probably the best I ever had as a married woman.

We were not getting each other gifts, but then I got a Chi straightener that apparently Ken had been planning to get me all along. So the madness began!

We normally do not go all out, but this year, I just wanted to be surprised. I wanted Ken to plan a date night for us. After much communication, we realized that we have a good problem with communication - we tell each other everything, therefore there are normally not any surprises. With all his might, Ken kept his secret and surprised me with a lovely night at a restaurant that we have been wanting to try.

I have officially decided that I like surprises.

For Ken, I got this lovely power tool

Instead of flowers, Ken got me some wonderful blueberry bushes! He knows my heart!

So here's to being surprised every once in a while!

Weekend Highlights ... A Little Late

2012-02-15T18:19:00.000-06:00

My good friend Stephenie informed that I needed to update the ol' blog. Please go and check her out!

Thanks, Stephenie!

Well, I was a Mississippi Girl this weekend and did all Mississippi things.

It all started when Ken went beaver hunting (PETA, please don't call.), and he killed something else

I got me a new piece of Mississippi Pottery with a Christmas Gift Card. I will have to show you later, because I refuse to take a picture at night.

Saturday night, we snuck over into Memphis to visit with some friends downtown at the Trolley Stop Market. Good food, good company, and good scenery. No pictures due to being in Tennessee.

Shh ...

We had a great HOT and LOUD Sunday at church.

Granted, I realized that it was cold outside, but the temperature inside made me wonder if the preacher was wanting us to "feel" what he was preaching.

It was LOUD during the special music due to the person running the sound booth. That would happen to be my father, and it made me question whether or not to take him down to the Sears and Roebuck for the free hearing test.

After being all HOT and LOUD, I did what any girl would do ...

Go home and take pictures out in the cold ...

Daddy would not go because he informed us that he had to cook ...

And it was GOOD!

Tootsie even enjoyed her Valentine's from her grandmother ...

And speaking of Valentine's, I will share ours on Friday.

Hope your weekend went well! I hope on my next trip home, I will get to visit with more people!!!

Kitchen Update Peek

2012-02-09T00:01:00.002-06:00

So the kitchen updating process is SLOW. SLOW is actually spelled DIY which would be why it is SLOW.

There are cabinet doors everywhere "curing"

My great use of paint cans as drying racks ...

and open cabinets waiting on some kitchen jewelry to really shine.

Motivation was in order to finish this project and inspire furture projects ...

Our new table saw, in which Ken has told me "Baby, I will build you whatever you want."

I thought I share in case I need future motivations on those building projects!

We will go next week to pick up the rest of the supplies!

I can't wait to finish this project and then share with you our next big project!

Tuesday Drive By

2012-02-07T00:01:00.005-06:00

Well, I am practicing perfecting my photography skills, I thought it would be fun to share some "drive-by's" with you. So here it goes!

As I made my way home this weekend, the sky was a gorgeous blue with the most fluffiest clouds that I have seen in a while, especially in February!

I love taking backroads just for the scenery, so I could not resist doing a drive by shooting of the beautiful sky as well as other things along the way ...

I assure you, no one was hurt nor was there a lot of traffic involved in this drive-by-shooting of a fun Sunday ride. I may or may not have learned to drive on this particular day while looking through a camera lense. I would not recommend doing this on a busy road, however, if you must, it is probably best if the passenger is taking the pictures.

I also do not drive any faster than my Guardian Angel can fly. Or at least I hope so.

Happy Wednesday!

Weekend Highlights ...

2012-02-05T18:57:00.000-06:00

This weekend I went to visit Lea Ann and her sweet little family. Middle sister met me there so she could shoot some pictures of this little man ...

Who, at first, acted like any other man when taking a picture ...

He then decided to cooperate, but I will let Lea Ann display those pictures. All I can say is that they turned out so well! Middle sister, as always, did a fantastic job!

Middle sister also showed me a few basics in Photoshop, which was a relief! Since Picnik is leaving us, I guess it is now or never to learn the Photoshop Elements that Ken gave me for Christmas.

I have a long way to go my friends.

Saturday night, we met one of Brook's friends, whom I adore, at Huck's in Columbus. I think everyone enjoyed the wonderful evening full of laughs, good conversation, and fabulous, sinful Mississippi cuisine.

It will be all fruits and veggies this week! ;)

Brook and I stayed up way to late talking and giggling about the things we did growing up. So needless to say, a nap was one of the first things I did when I got home - home to a husband that had a wonderful lunch cooked and clothes washed. One of the many reasons I love him!

So glad that I got to visit with these precious family and friends!

Well, that is about all from my end! Happy Week!

January Showers ....

2012-02-03T00:01:00.001-06:00

Brings Early Flowers!!!

I spent some time last summer replanting my daffodils, and then I forgot about it until I happened to glance this way ...

It is so nice to see signs of Spring coming our way!

However, I am curious if it will snow in April when I am so ready to be in my year!

One can only hope not!

Tootsie even enjoyed being out and admiring our little glimpse of Spring

Really, she was just waiting for me to throw her ball. She is sassy like that!

Happy Friday Friends!

Kitchen is getting closer to being finished!

Prepping for the Kitchen ... Part 2

2012-02-01T00:01:00.002-06:00

When you are remodeling or updating an older home, it seems like you are constantly on a scavenger hunt for something.

Apparently, back in the seventies, people preferred paneling in the kitchen because it was "nice." They also preferred to hang their kitchen lights from the wall.

I prefer to hang my over-the-sink-light from the ceiling, but in order to do that, we had to do some "Tawandaing" to our walls!

Removing the cabinet after much debate ...

Who cares if there is a hole in our wall where we will rehang the cabinet?

Finding the needed wire from the bottom ...

Love the Dremmel!

All we needed was the one power cord so we could be in business. It was hanging in the wall all along just waiting for someone to find it.

Someone did and was very pleased!

And I am very pleased with this beauty!

More to come!

My Dissected Version of Southern Living's February Issue

2012-01-30T00:01:00.001-06:00

I may or may not have mentioned that I am growing more and more in love with Southern Living magazine.

It is almost like they have read my mind and publish a whole magazine around my idea.

At least that is what I think.

So when this arrived, I just opened my mail from my friend, so I decided to do a little photo shoot. Bear with me, because I may or may not have over propped it. I am learning, my friends.

I am just going to say that is this magazine was food, I would savor every morsel.

Look at that cover! Who can resist banana pudding?

Spring Flowers are calling my name!

Key West was featured in their Travel section - somewhere Ken would like to vacation ...

This kitchen had me at the vintage lights! So beautiful!

This is the real reason that I was waiting to dive into it. BooMama spilled the beans on the Pimento Cheese section a day or two before I got mine.

I am currently trying to perfect a delicious pimento cheese. so this just help guide me along! Several yummy recipes in this section as well as several store bought suggestions.

Love the architecture, land, and ideas surrounding this house!

My daffadils have already started to come up! Can't wait!

And Hummingbird Pound Cake ...

My favorite section (other than the pimento cheese) is Rick Bragg's back cover story. This one is apparently on piddling and loafering, and the last two paragraphs remind me of Ken and me.

This issue was fabulous! I highly recommend it!

All opinions are mine. I am not being compensated by Southern Living. Just love this issue is all!

I Got Mail ...

2012-01-26T19:09:00.004-06:00

I am sure that if you are like me, you love getting mail. Ken and I about knock each other down to see who can get the mail first. It is a great day with you have personal mail or the beloved magazine admist all of those bills.

It is even better when you have a box propped up against your door with your name written in one of your best friends handwrittings.

A very good day indeed ...

I would have showed you the whole package, but at this point my curiosity was peaked. Like a child on Christmas morning, I ripped that box to pieces ...

To discover this ...

So when I realized that the bag was labeled from one of my favorite stores, I got really excited, especially when the outside of letter instructed me to open the bag first.

Didn't have to tell me twice.

Now, I must pause for just a split second so that you know, that this favorite store of mine has always been for creative browsing only. I have never bought anything for myself here, but just go and dream. I normally drag whoever is with me to go and dream as well. And they like it.

So when I saw this ...

I knew my best friend knows me quite well.

I mentioned earlier this week that yellow is my signature color, however, grey comes in a close second! How perfect are these two together, especially with that monogram! It will look so great in our guest bathroom!

Then I saw this, and just squealed with delight and wondered at the same time how she knew I was looking for dish towels with dishes for our new kitchen.

Because she is my friend, that's why.

I mean, look at the details ...

Sweet dishes ..

And ruffles ...

My favorite!

And the best part about this - it is so versatile that it goes with my Christmas decor as well!

My friend made my day! It is so nice to be thought of and then laden with gifts that she found for me down at one of my favorite perusing stores!

Thank you, Alyssa!

You are the best!

Prepping for a New Kitchen

2012-01-25T00:00:00.003-06:00

I have been waiting and waiting for this. Forever it feels, but maybe, just maybe, the dream will soon become a reality.

To update our kitchen!

In fact, I blogged about this last April.

My Pinterest Board is titled "The Great Kitchen Debate" because it has been a great debate. A great one. Not necessarily arguing, but trying to decide exactly what we want.

The idea has changed over a variety of times from yellow cabinets to white to now this:

Winter Fog by Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformation

We will be using the unglazed.

Our walls are wonky so I decided to just do the basic back splash in bead board. My dream kitchen would have subway tile, but my reality kitchen will be bead board. I don't think it is healthy to stop dreaming.

We have already painted our walls supposedly a whitish gray, but more of a white white. I believe that the cabinets will look awesome against the white white walls. Time will tell, and I may just have to whip out my paint brush again. Really Ken will. He prefers to paint. Maybe it is because I get more paint on me than on what needs to be painting.

The rest of the kitchen will have this ...

The upper cabinets will be bejeweled with this lovely knob ...

The bottom cabinets in this one ...

The drawers ...

and I would love for my sink to look like this, but it will not ...

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Haven on Pinterest

That is okay, because we will have butcher block counter tops much like the ones above!

That is my splurge.

The faucet that I am eyeing, however, ...

the Moen Weatherly

We are getting all of our jewelry and butcher block from this company, and I cannot wait to show you!

So here's to making my dream into a reality!

On Friday, I will share with you what it takes to hang a new light in the kitchen ...

Monday Funday ...

2012-01-22T00:01:00.001-06:00

Joy from Confessions from a Southern Socialite tagged me in a fun post and I decided to take in the fun and pass it on to others.

The Rules:

1. Post the rules
2. Post 11 fun facts about yourself
3. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post, and then create 11 new questions for the people you tag
4. Tag 11 people and link them in your post
5. Let them know you’ve “tagged” them

Facts About Me ...

1. I am a wife, a mother to a 6 year old four legged child, and hope and pray to be a mother soon! :)

2. I enjoy a good Mark Wahlberg movie and have been know to have Marky Mark movie marathons on Netflix.

3. I love reading Southern books - my favorites are Fannie Flagg and Rick Bragg.

4. I also love creating lists - to do lists, grocery lists, etc. It helps me keep my head uncluttered.

5. One of my favorite things to do is ride through historical areas and look at the architecture. One of my dreams as a little girl was to become a historical architect.

6. I also enjoy drawing house plans, which I haven't done in quite a while. In high school, with the help of my dad, we designed a house that someone actually built.

7. My favorite food to eat when Ken is out of town is sauerkraut and turkey smoked sausage with a little hot sauce. So delicious, and it completely grosses Ken out. So that is why I wait to enjoy it without someone gagging.

8. In college, I was in a washboard band with 10 of my best friends. I played the shakers in the Personality Section.

9. I cannot make it through my day without Pandora. I listen to it as I get ready in the mornings, at school, and in the evenings.

10. I am related to Delta Burke. Her mother and my grandfather were first cousins. I have never met her but would love too!

11. I feel like I am living my dream of being married to a wonderful man!

Questions from Joy to answer ...

What was the best part of 2011 for you? The best part of 2011 for me was getting my new job as an eighth grade science teacher, teaching the same students that I have been with for the past 3 years!

If you were given the choice to have a maid or chef which would you choose? I would definitely choose a maid to help keep up with everything. I enjoy cooking too much, although meals seems to taste better when cooked by someone else.

What does love mean to you? Love means many different things to me, but mostly loving through the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. This could be loving someone who is hard to love, loving your dog after they chewed the corners off of your window seals, or your not so pretty kitchen as well as receiving love even when you think you don't deserve it. With love come fun times and forgiveness.

What's one piece of advice you can give this future wife? You will discover new things about your spouse every day. Some things will be wonderful and some will be not so wonderful. Remember, they also learning things from you. Show love even if it is tough. Communication is the key. Always appreciate the good and tell them so.

Do you make your bed every morning? Of course! Ken and I make the bed together. He has to ensure that the sheets are a certain way. Me, on the other hand, just want to make the room nice.

Are you a couch or recliner type of person? Couch. I have more room. :)

Super bowl... which do you like more... the game, the entertainment, the commercials, or the food? The food! It is always so delicious!

What got you to start blogging? Reading Brittany's blog! I enjoyed her post and decided to give it a try!

You've been given a lazy day, what do you plan to do all day? Lay on the couch and read ALL DAY LONG!

Cheesecake, chocolate cake or apple pie? Cheesecake, hands down.

And only because it never fails that someone will ask you this in life... If you could be a color, what color would you be?! This is a tough one. I think I will have to go with yellow because currently it is my signature color. It makes me smile every time I see it!

Questions to answer from me to the folks I will tag:

1. What is your favorite thing to cook?

2. What is one dream for yourself?

3. What is your favorite Pinterest board?

4. What keeps you blogging?

5. If you could plan a fun day for yourself, what would you do?

6. What do you like best about yourself?

7. What movie describes your life or what you think your life is like?

8. What is your guilty pleasure?

9. What gives you courage?

10. What keeps you blogging?

11. What inspires you?

People who I am tagging:

Lea Ann from Steve and Lea Ann

Sarah from The Sharps Life

Amber from The Life and Thoughts from Amber

Brittany from Dalomba Days

Brooke from Thrifty Southern Living with Brooke

Jenn from Rook No. 17

Julie from Life and Love in a Small Town

Jamie from The Ely Trio

Ashley from The Coach and the Southern Girl

Amy from Sunday Town

Sara from The Atwood Family

Gallery Wall

2012-01-19T00:00:00.000-06:00

Every now and then, I think it is healthy to mix up some things around the house.

This time I chose my gallery wall in the living room.

At Christmas it looked like this

But after finding this mirror,

I began to play around with things that I had or recently made or received.

Then I got this and it totally changed everything.

Middle sister is the beautiful photographer behind this photo. I am sure that you have already guessed that.

We also made this lovely sign from pallet wood.

So with all this combined, we got this.

I just got the rest of the stuff from around the house.

It is one of the first things I see when I walk in, of course after Ken and Tootsie. It makes me smile!

I love how you can see all different angles of the house through the mirror. It is especially fun first thing in the morning as I go down to the laundry room to feed the Tootsie Girl. That will probably be the only time I don't look into it.

So with this gallery wall, there came others throughout the house.

Ken spent the afternoon rehanging pictures around the house.

Bless him.

I told him that he would not have to do it again for another two years.

Ken's mother gave me the painted canvas for Christmas. His cousin, Brittany, painted it for me! How pretty!

You may remember my "Its a Wonderful Life" board from here.

Junkin’ and a Before and After

2012-01-18T05:42:00.000-06:00

I mentioned around Thanksgiving that I went junkin' with Middle Sister at a place called This and That in our hometown as well as in my dad's barn.

In the barn, this is what we found in a beautiful old tool box:

I especially love the old measuring tape!

At the junk store, we found this fabulous mirror that was begged to come home with me. After many flirtatious smiles, I brought it home, much against the pleading of my husband who later on insisted on spray painting it.

Men.

Before:

After:

Can't wait to show you where I put this!

Peter's Pottery

2012-01-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

I have shared my love of Mississippi Pottery here and here.

Today, I will be sharing Peter's White Pottery that I got for Christmas.

I love the brown speckles and little wave in these small plates

These will be fun to dress up and dress down!

The salt and pepper shakers are just perfect and fit wonderfully in this lovely dish. I have been admiring these for about a year, and my wonderful godmother gave me these for Christmas.

My favorite piece that I got was this beautiful, fabulous pitcher.

I love the lines and the small spout.

Do you just love the white pottery?

You can find out more about Peter's Pottery located in Mount Bayou, Mississippi here.

Weekend Highlights ...

2012-01-16T08:04:00.002-06:00

This weekend has felt nice and slow, but went by extremely fast. I just wanted to savor the moments.

Friday, my wonderful in-laws came to town to celebrate my brother-in-law's birthday.

I spent Friday afternoon playing with Tootsie and making cupcakes while watching last week's Pam Am. This sounds like a dream, but the fact that I was constantly licking icing from my fingers and washing my hands, I know it was reality.

This is the first time I added icing to the middle of the cupcake. I must say it was easier than I thought. Just plop your icing tip in the middle of the cupcake and squeeze away. I am sure that you already know this, and I am a little tardy for the party.

Saturday, our electricity went out around 5 am, so what did we do?

Get up and start the day, of course!

Ken had to work anyway, so it was nice to get up, eat pop-tarts, and giggle about being up so early.

We totally do not act this way during the week. Only on the weekends!

After he left, I began reading Nicholas Sparks's new book The Best of Me. I liked it so much that I only took two days to read it. It was quite the mixture of several of his books. A good, fast read.

I also went shopping with my mother-in-law for curtain rods and blinds for the BIL. I love shopping for home decor, especially for someone else. I also got a few baskets and pears for the dining room, which you will see later.

Sunday, Ken cooked lunch for everyone, and then we took a very long nap before getting ready for date night.

Oh, Date Night, I have missed you!

We ate at the Scene Resturant before seeing this lovely man.

You may remember that I might be somewhat obessed with this fellow.

What better to end date night than with a little kitchen demo - more on that later as well!

So this weekend was busy but full of savory moments that I just want to take a mental picture of to carry in my heart forever.

Do you ever want to do that?

Mississippi

2012-01-13T06:19:00.003-06:00

Now that we live in Alabama, I miss Mississippi quite often. So today, I will be sharing wonderful images that remind me of my home state.

So true!!!

Source: etsy.com via Haven on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Haven on Pinterest

Source: alexacall.com via Haven on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Haven on Pinterest

Source: themississippigiftcompany.com via Haven on Pinterest

Source: alexacall.com via Haven on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Haven on Pinterest

Source: themississippigiftcompany.com via Haven on Pinterest

I will always be a Mississippi Girl at heart!

By the way, as you can tell, I got the blog back like I love having it! What a relief!

Freezing ... A New Obsession

2012-01-11T00:00:00.000-06:00

Due to my addiction to Pinterest, I have decided to try making freezer meals for us. I have done a little of this in the past, due to cooking for two. It was just easier to make a dish and divide it in half for later. So since I had a few days off a while back, I decided to cook up some things.

One thing that I have the most trouble is breakfast. I like to eat breakfast, and really enjoy a big breakfast. No time for that, though, so I thought I would try these:

Freezer Breakfast Burritos

Source: momontimeout.com via Jessica on Pinterest

So far, so good. It took us a couple of tries to reheat perfectly in the microwave, but I think Ken has that all figured out.

We went to Sam's and I got about 5 1/2 lbs of ground chuck that I made into:
(5) hamburger patties
(3)1 lb bags of ground beef for various dinners this month
(1) 1 1b of taco meat.
and we also got some pork loins that we were able to divide into 2 bags.

This had really helped me with cooking at night. I just look to see what we are having the next day and throw the bag in the fridge the night before to thaw.

I also made some twice baked potatoes from A Turtle's Life for Me.

Source: aturtleslifeforme.blogspot.com via Haven on Pinterest

This website has a ton of dinner meals:

Source: joelens.blogspot.com via Haven on Pinterest

What do you freeze?

Photography ... As much as I know and helpful links

2012-01-09T00:00:00.000-06:00

I am sure that many of you may have gotten a camera for Christmas or already have one. I am no professional by any means and have a lot of learning to do myself. I thought, however, that we all need to be challenged to learn a little more.

As you know Middle Sister is a photographer, and I am so glad that she is. She has given me several tidbits here and there, and there are several that stuck with me including:

1. Begin Learning in AV Mode and Then Move to Manual ...

AV stands for "aperture value," but beyond that, I do not know more other than when using AV mode, you can manipulate two of the three things - ISO and aperture - while the camera manipulates the speed. This helps give you a "feel" of what you want to do in manual.

In manual, you manipulate all three things.

(After reading my blog post, Middle sister called and corrected me on the above, and then asked for dip recipes. I told you that I am no expert on cameras, however, on dips, for the big game, I am.)

2. Don't Always Use Your Flash ...

The other thing I found helpful is not to use your flash but only 10% of the time. This has been huge! I love using the natural light to create a lovely picture. I use the morning light on the front of my house and the afternoon light on the back. This tip alone, has really helped me!

3. Use a Tripod ...
A tripod helps prevent shaking that may effect your pictures. By using a tripod, you are almost guaranteed a beautiful picture. I don't always do this because sometimes I am in a hurry and don't want to take the time, however I did use it when taking this picture:

I got my tripod at Wal-Mart about $28.00.

Here is what camera I have ...

Canon Rebel T1i and 50 mm lens

I love the 50mm lens it that it captures a little more detail than my other due to being able to manipulate the aperture more.

Here are some helpful links that has helped me to learn more ...

Centsational Girl - 10 Basics for Better Home Photography

The Lettered Cottage - Photography Tips for Sharper Interiors

The Pioneer Woman - What the Heck is Aperture?

The Pioneer Woman - What the Heck is Shutter Speed

Pinterest also had this cheat sheet ...

Source: themetapicture.com via Haven on Pinterest

The best thing to do is just to get out there and begin.

This past summer, I used my camera every day and learned some of the basics. This summer, I plan to do the same as well as conquer Photoshop Elements!

Do you have any good photography tips?

Crock Pot Meals

2012-01-05T00:00:00.000-06:00

We love our crock pot so much that we invite it over once a week and allow it to cook for us.

Seriously, I use it at least once a week and would use it more, but I do not want my husband to think that is the only way I know how to cook.

On the other hand ...

Here are some of our favorite recipes.

This one is fantastic and I must cook it at least once a month:

Crock Pot Ranch Pork Loins with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Source: realmomkitchen.com via Ashley on Pinterest

Chicken and Dumplins'

· 2 cream of chicken
· Onion
· Chicken Broth
· Chicken
· 2 Tablespoons butter
· 2 cans biscuits

Directions
1. Place the chicken, butter, soup, and onion in a slow cooker, and fill with enough water to cover.
2. Cover, and cook for 5 to 6 hours on High. About 30 minutes before serving, place the torn biscuit dough in the slow cooker. Cook until the dough is no longer raw in the center.

Taco Soup

Italian Chicken Over Rice

Place 3-4 chicken breast in the crock pot. I always use frozen

Combine in a separate bowl:

8 oz. cream cheese

1 can cream of chicken soup

1/2 c. Italian salad dressing

Seasoning of your choice!

Pour mixture over chicken in crock pot. Cook on low for 5-6 hours.

Serve over rice

Sante Fe Chicken Over Rice

Just a different flavor than that above!

Place 3-4 chicken breast in the crock pot. I always use frozen

Combine in a separate bowl:

1 can cream of chicken soup

Sante Fe Philadelphia Cooking Sauces or 8 oz cream cheese and taco seasoning

Pour mixture over chicken in crock pot. Cook on low for 5-6 hours.

Serve over rice

Pot Roast or Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables

- Pot Roast
- Potatoes

- Carrots

- Pot Roast Mixture

Wash and cut the potatoes. Follow directions on Pot Roast Crock Pot Mixture.

Any type of homemade soup - vegetable, potato, etc.

How do you Crock Pot?

Our Day Date to Rome, GA

2012-01-03T00:00:00.000-06:00

During our Christmas hiatus, we went on a day trip to Rome, GA to do a little exploring and of course eating.

I should have really titled this post "How We Ate Our Way from North Alabama to North Georgia and Back" because eating is what it is all about on trips, right?

I'm sure you are wondering why Rome. Well, back a few years ago, I went with some friends to Hotlanta and ate my last meal in Rome before hearing banjo music on every line less back road from my house to Atlanta. A three hour trip turned in a 5 1/2 trip. Good times. I loved what I saw in Rome before the rest of the crazy trip and always wanted to go back to do some investigation.

Any ways

On our way, we stopped to stretch our legs and take in the beautiful site at DeSoto State Park

We finally got to Rome, and our first stop was the Rome History Museum

where we learned that Margaret Mitchell, author of Gone with the Wind, had friends in Rome and two plantations were thought to be the basis of the plantations in her book. Rome even hosted an early premiere of Gone with the Wind.

Woodrow Wilson's wife Ellen lived here prior to their marriage and is buried here.

I made my grandmother proud and visited the cemetery

to see the grave.

Hi, Betty Love!

The view from the cemetery of the city was beautiful!

Coca-cola was actually invented here before being sold a couple of times of what we know today. In fact, this county is known for drinking more cokes than anybody in the world. My daddy would fit right in.

Also, Rome is the city of Seven Hills.

We climbed one to visit the clock tower that once was a water tower for the city.

I am still feeling that climb today. :)

We ate lunch at the Mellow Mushroom

where we devoured a small Funky Q Pizza

so we could save room to go here

for a perfectly sweet combination of hot chocolate and gelato.

I would have taken a picture, but clearly my hands were full.

Next time, I think I will be a lady that lunches here:

The chicken salad and pimento cheese was calling my name.

My childhood disease of loving old houses and architecture kicked in as well ...

I would love this house on about 5 acres ...

Also, I thought this was funny ...

On our way back, we decided to go a different way and I am so glad that we did, because we went through Mentone, AL. I will definitely be visiting this small town again.

Mentone, AL, population of around 200 that boasts of 2 gorgeous inns, one that has been around since 1880's.

(Apparently in the early 1900's, Mentone was place where people went for the mineral springs and fresh air.)

They also had a huge antique store next door to the old inn

as well as a delicious Wildflower Cafe, featured in Southern Living.

Delicious is an understatement. Here we were on top of a mountain, eating in a quaint little cafe with scrumptious food. There was a patina bead board ceiling and gorgeous old floors. It basically looked like a little house that had been added on several times with white table linens and little lamps on the tables. The booths were made out of bus seats and looked quite comforting and welcoming. Quaint.

We dined on shrimp scampi and smothered chicken with garlic mash potatoes, to die for sauteed vegetables, and grilled cabbage. I so wanted dessert, but decided that we probably needed to head home. The Tootsie Girl was probably hungry.

What a lovely day with wonderful memories!

If you plan to visit us anytime soon, be prepared for a day trip to Mentone. I cannot wait to go back!

Lastly, my favorite quote from this trip was by my lovely husband, who after getting breakfast at McDonald's stopped at another McDonald's for a bathroom break in which he also helped himself to a refill, "Haven, we could stop at all the McDonald's, and we would not have to pay for a drink this whole trip."

I know you are jealous that I get to spend the rest of my life with this man! Ha!

Happy New Years

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-06:00

Source: my-ear-trumpet.tumblr.com via Carol on Pinterest

Source: afieldjournal.blogspot.com via Sally on Pinterest

Source: imgfave.com via Jessica on Pinterest

May your new year be full of happiness, struggles to make you stronger, love, and lots of good kissing!

Oh the Favorite Posts of 2011

2011-12-29T00:01:00.052-06:00

So the good news is that I can download a blog background.

The bad news is that I cannot customize like I want. Sigh.

You can't always get what you want.

Here are some of my favorite posts of 2011! Hope you enjoy!

Oh the Projects!

How to Make Burlap Curtains

Blinging Snowflakes

Oh the Showers!

Snips and Snails and Puppy Dog Tails Shower

Breakfast at Kristyn's Shower

A Shower of Nature

Vintage Baby Boy Shower

Oh the Flowers!

Oh the Recipes!

Bacon Tomato Cornbread Sandwiches

Sunday Dinner ... Grilled Everything

Just for the Girls Pizza

Lemon Blackberry Sour Cream Cake

Broccoli Soup

Oh the Trips!

Savannah, GA

Milton/Pensacola, FL

What was your favorite posts?

Christmas Highlights

2011-12-27T20:23:00.000-06:00

Well, the good news is that we are home and will be sharing our Christmas Highlights below.

The bad news is my blog header gadget appears to be broken so I can change my blog header.

Merry Christmas 12 months early!

Christmas was a wonderful time with our family in Mississippi. We ate, unwrapped, napped, and then repeated about 6 times. I wonder why I am having such a hard time getting back to eating healthy this week? That's right, I indulged in all things cheesy and gooey over the holidays.

I will think about it tomorrow.

We took our Christmas decor down before leaving for Mississippi on Friday.

I hear you gasp.

It was so nice to come home and everything be put away.

I hope to make it a holiday tradition!

We received a lot of wonderful gifts, especially socks. I believe socks are appreciated with age.

I also got a lot of beautiful girly tops - one even made by my mother. I may have to have a post on that alone. I will have a post on all the beautiful pottery that I received. Beautiful, I say.

Just in case you are curious as to what my favorite food that I indulged in it was FRIED DEER TENDERLOIN made especially for me by my sweet daddy. It was benefited by all. Now, I don't care for deer meat anymore, but the day I refuse to eat fried deer tenderloin, I believe that a pig will fly.

Anyways ...

So this week, my husband is off and says that he is going to rest, relax, and play as much of Angry Birds as he can. I have other plans.

We will see what happens

Hope your Christmas went well.

What was your favorite gift/food that you indulged in?

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T00:01:00.005-06:00

Merry Christmas from our home to yours!

front

back

Middle sister did her older sister a huge favor! She took our picture, edited, created, ordered, and shipped them all to us! Talk about stress free on my behalf.

The barn is an old dairy barn that is now my father's shop. I love to go junking in here! Always something to redo!

Merry Christmas! I hope you and your family has a very happy holiday!

Thank you for showing your support and visiting our blog!

Love and Adore Him

2011-12-23T00:01:00.015-06:00

As we celebrate this beautiful weekend with family and friends, let us not forget the true meaning of Christmas. This goes along beautifully with my "simple Christmas" theme.

It is as simple as ...

and

adore

HIM!!!

Because we all know that the greatest gift is love!

May you spread love this holiday season ...

Dining Room

2011-12-22T00:01:00.003-06:00

Where the breakfast room is calm and subtle, the dining room is quite the opposite. Whose said your decor had to flow?

When my mama came to help me, she made the dining room especially glamorous!

Feast your eyes on this!

She did a wonderful job! I love it, especially the centerpiece made from glass jars, faux snow, berries, and twiggy branches from my MIL's tree!

Breakfast Room ...

2011-12-21T00:01:00.003-06:00

I am currently in love with my kitchen and breakfast room! This was so much fun to decorate! I cannot think of what I like more in this room. It just came all together!

Where we will be putting all of our Christmas cards

and the night version

Christmas Tree ...

2011-12-20T00:01:00.004-06:00

Here it is in all it's glory! I love it! I love the twiggy branches that my mother-in-law got from one of her trees for me. I love the glimpses of red, the glamorous ornaments, the book page birds, and the combination of everything!

I have two versions -

the night ...

and the day ...

I even hung some spoons and forks that I had for another project.

Rolled up sheet music!

And even a pickle. You can read the story here.

And if you missed my six days of handmade ornaments, just click the links below ...

Blinging Snowflake Ornament

Glittery Book Page Ornament

Wedding Invitation Ornament

Bird Ornaments

Twinkle Ornaments

Book page ornaments

Simply Christmas ... Handmade ornament #6

2011-12-19T00:01:00.004-06:00

This was one of my favorites! It was not one that I thought of before hand, but so glad that it came to mind!

Just simple and makes your twinkle lights shine!

Weekend Highlights and My Christmas Door Hanger

2011-12-18T15:58:00.001-06:00

This weekend was wonderful as most weekends are.

I visited a handsome little baby on Friday. Welcome to the world, Samuel Hughes!

Saturday was spent baking neighbor gifts ...

with this handsome man.

He washed all the dishes, bless his heart, and drove the delivery van. He is definitely a keeper.

Saturday night, we had a fabulous dinner with some friends who also reads our blog! Hi, Stephenie!

But on Sunday ...

This little girl, however, may or may not have been for sale.

While we were out playing Santa Claus for a child at school, she was more or less enjoying her an entire pan of Pioneer Woman's cinnamon rolls. That is right, the entire pan. She got it off the stove, took the ribbon off, lifted the lid, and helped herself. Wonder if she can learn to vacuum?

At what you really clicked on my link for ...

Here is my door hanger ...

I love the red and brown webbing and am constantly trying to think of new ways to use it. I am also a burlap user and bling is my middle name. With that thought process, this combination was made up and it was not time consuming at all. Just cheery and bright.

Stay tuned this week for one more ornament and my Christmas decorations room by room along with our Christmas Card.

Happy Week Before Christmas!

Stay Sane.

Simply Christmas ... Handmade ornament #5

2011-12-16T00:01:00.002-06:00

Got to love Anthropologie for starting the book page loving decor!

Easy, easy, easy!

Simply Christmas ... Handmade ornament #4

2011-12-15T00:01:00.003-06:00

The next few ornaments over the next few days involve clear glass ornaments and simple embellishments.

This one was one of our wedding invitations that I cut up and placed inside the glass ornament.

Love this!

Simply Christmas ... Handmade ornament #3

2011-12-14T00:01:00.008-06:00

Of course, I had to throw in some bird ornaments!

I took some of the sheet music to make some cute little birds for the tree.

I did the following:

I just made me two different kinds of templates and traced them on the sheet music. The fun thing about using book pages or sheet music is that the paper is double sided, so I was able to flip the birds to look in different directions.

Glue the wings on ...

Add some glue ...

and some glitter ...

Blinging birdies for the tree!

Simply Christmas ... Handmade ornament #2

2011-12-13T00:01:00.002-06:00

In keeping with the snowflake theme, my next ornament, I got from Pinterest.

Source: creationsbykara.com via Haven on Pinterest

I realized halfway in that I did not follow directions at the beginning nor have steady hands enough to get it right.

So what is a girl to do when she realized that her project is not so pretty? Well, use the skills she learned from Pre-K and let the gluing and glittering begin!

If you would like to make the one in the picture above, you can find the tutorial here.

Otherwise, trudge on my friends.

Add glue to the edges of the flower ...

Turn it glue side down and get ready to glitter it up!

Place it on some aluminum foil to dry.

I added a circle that I cut out on my Cricut and of course a faux rhinestone ...

Simply Christmas ... Handmade ornament #1

2011-12-12T00:01:00.003-06:00

For some crazy reason, I decided to change up my tree this year. I am so glad I did, because I love it. It is unique. I also decided to make my own ornaments as well. Crazy I know.

Here is the first one. I was already thinking about glamorous snowflakes when I saw some very similar in Pottery Barn. Well, if you find it in Pottery Barn, then you must carry on.

I got the big tub of big faux rhinestones, some skewers, hot glue, and fishing line to make several of these beauties.

Basically I cut the skewers with wire cutters and just make sure that the lengths were about right.

Then you got glue the skewers together to make wooden snowflakes.

Next, you hot glue the faux rhinestones on top of the skewers. I worked from the center out and then added a big rhinestone in the center. This project was very forgiving in that if you had more beads on one end and not the other, just add one and it looks fine.

Reinforce the back with more hot glue and then add fishing line to the top. I found that it worked better to hot glue the line on than to tie it. Tying it made the snowflakes to fall forward.

And yes, I used a lot of hot glue. Why do you ask?

I love how they give an extra twinkle to my vintage glamorous tree!

Simply Wrapping

2011-12-08T00:01:00.001-06:00

Since my theme is "Simply Christmas," I decided to even wrap my gifts in a simple style of contractor's paper and jute with a stamped tag.

I love wrapping in plain paper! As a teenager, I would get packing paper, paint, and cookie cutters to create my own wrapping paper. What fun it was to design your own paper. These days, however, I will stick to the more simple of the two.

What are your wrapping your gifts with?

Santa Stops

2011-12-07T00:01:00.001-06:00

Back in October, I had no desire to put up any Christmas decorations. No one, except us, got to enjoy them, so I didn't want to go all out.

I was telling this to a friend when she said that I had to put up my tree because she was already inviting herself over for Christmas.

With this little comment, I was ready to come up with a plan. I also realized that Christmas is about giving whether that is a gift or a meal. Or both. It is also about giving times to others and enjoy each other's company.

Ok, back to the plan!

I had so many ideas! Some I found on Pinterest. The others just popped in my head right before I went to sleep. You know those kind that you hope to remember when you wake up because they are that awesome!

Here was one indeed.

It started with a world map that I found online. I loved the colors!

I just added some burlap to a frame that I have had forever.

I found some scrapbook paper at the Hobby Lobby and mod podged it to the mat.

I added some push pins to special areas to us on the map along with the words "Santa Stops" to get this ...

I love this little vignette!

I am linking up with:

Book wreath

2011-12-06T00:01:00.002-06:00

Book wreaths fascinate me so!

After seeing so many, I decided to make my own.

There is no full tutorial with this. I just played with it until it "felt right."

So I started with a Wolverine Boot Box and some mixing bowls to make my cardboard wreath. Using a larger mixing bowl, I traced around the top of it. Then i used a smaller bowl, I place in the center of the first circle and traced around the top of that.

I tore out several pages (I did save the songs that I remembered most, songs that I sang sitting with my grandparents at church. My favorite song that we never sang in the Baptist Church was "O Happy Day!") and began rolling and forming different things.

Once I figured out what I wanted to do, I hot glued it to the cardboard wreath I made to get this ...

I love the center of this! I had no idea that it would turn out like this!

I think this will probably stay up year long!

Weekend Highlights ...

2011-12-04T18:14:00.002-06:00

Well Mama and I decorated in a whirl wind! I still have two more projects to finish and my Christmas decorations will be complete.

It is a little different this year. My theme is "Simply" Christmas with a little vintage glam of course!

For the most part, most of my decor is simple, but I will share more later this week!

So on to the weekend highlights!

Thursday night was Christmas for us. Literally. Someone, and don't worry, Ken, I will not mention who, just had to open up presents and just could not wait for Christmas.

That certain someone was overly excited about the Toshiba Thrive that came in the mail.

Last week, I explained to that someone that I could not open presents unless my Christmas decor was up.

Well, one day I can home from school, my Christmas tree was up, lit, and ready to decorate.

Motivation, my friends, is a wonderful thing!

I will be listening in for next year's motivation as well. I think this will be a new tradition!

On Friday night, my brother in law brought us dinner. It was so sweet especially since no one at our house wanted to go out any where. We watched a little Pirates of the Caribbean on Stranger Tides. I don't think I like this one as much. It may be that Pinterest was also beckoning me!

Saturday we did what should be done on Saturdays - whatever you wanted to do. This included laying in different positions on the couch reading Sookie Stackhouse books, lunch out at Five Guys (I was never so happy to see a greasy bag full of burgers and fries!), and a little shopping.

I also worked on some decor ...

While listening to the Michael Buble Holiday station on Pandora.

Our evening was spent in front of the chiminea outside, cuddled up next to each other playing Words with Friends while listening to Pandora. It was awfully romantic, especially when Ken got 105 points on "Jell." Well, this little story is very similar to the Tortoise and the Hare. What happened in the Tortoise and the Hare also happened last night. Ha!

Sunday was spent at Church and eating a quick lunch at Jason's Deli. I do mean quick. Here I am trying to eat my lunch with people standing up all around me eyeing every bite because they wanted our table. They were probably Baptist.

Later on in the afternoon, I did a photo shoot of some of my Christmas projects and Ken worked in his shop. He was very quite. This should have clued me in that something was up, but no, I was content in my trying to figure out Photoshop (which still hasn't happened).

Lo and behold, here he comes wanting me to come out and look at something. He said, "Tootsie wishes she could have it, but I told her it was for big people."

This is what happens when you leave your husband outside alone for an hour:

He builds a swing.

A swing to swing on and to confuse the Tootsie Girl as to why you are moving so fast.

I am just waiting for that branch to break and somebody to bust there booty.

Who else enjoyed this gorgeous December day?

May your week be filled with rest and relaxation after all this hustle and bustle.

May your husband build you a swing so that you can just watch the clouds go by!

Happy Sunday!

Weekend Highlights ... Turkey Edition

2011-11-30T06:45:00.000-06:00

I am a little late in posting this because we spent the entire Thanksgiving break in Mississippi!

However, today I am a housewife and my mother is coming! It is always better when mama comes! Let the Christmas Decorating begin!

So the short version of Weekend Highlights...

We ate, we ate some more, and we ate again. End of story.

You never go hungry in Mississippi. That is why we are the bottom of the obesity list. We are also at the top of the hospitality list. We are just fat, happy people, what can I say?

We had turkey, thanksgiving trimmings, barbeque chicken and pork chops, and my Daddy's steak. My Daddy's steak will make you never order steak in a restaurant again. It is that scrumptious.

We also took our Christmas pictures and went junkin'. Let's just say I got well acquainted with one of the junk stores in my hometown.

If I get a chance, I will show you my finds.

I am sure you want to know how Tootsie did during this time. Well, I don't know if there is any cat food left, the water was always gone in the toilet, we would wake up to find cupcake liners in the hall, and I do believe she got her a sliver of turtle cheesecake.

What happens at Grandmother's, stays at Grandmother's, right?

Happy Wednesday! There is light at the end of the tunnel for Friday!

What I am Thankful For ...

2011-11-25T00:01:00.001-06:00

Source: cheepideas.com via Haven on Pinterest

I am thankful for many things like most people - GOD, family, friends, home, job, and food on the table.

These are very important things that we too often forget that we are wealthier than most of the rest of the world.

I am thankful that I am reminded of this especially during the holidays.

It is far better to give than to receive.

I am thankful that my parents instilled in us to have a desire to help others in need.

I am thankful that my little family is continuing in this tradition.

I am thankful for the little things in life even if they last but for a moment - a rainy afternoon causing me to slow down and enjoy myself, flowers that need planting, an empty laundry basket, a students who finally "gets it," a husband who loves me, a husband that does the floors, a sweet Tootsie that nudges me when she needs some loving, a family where there is never a dull moment, a great church, friends who you can share secrets with, and being loved even when you fill you least deserve it.

There is so much to be thankful for! I need to count my blessing every day and show gratitude for what I do have.

I believe that when we realize our blessings it not only gives us hope for future blessings but also refreshes us.

What are some of the little things in life that you are thankful for?

What I will be fixing today.

2011-11-24T00:01:00.002-06:00

I shared this with you last year, but thought you might enjoy an oldie but a goodie

Squash Dressing from Patty Roper

- 2 (6-oz) Mexican Cornbread Mix (or you can get plain cornbread and mix it with Mexican corn)

- 2 lbs yellow squash, sliced

- 2 cups water

- 1/2 cup butter

- 1 cup onion, chopped

- 1 cup celery, chopped

- 1/2 cup green pepper, chopped

- 1/2 cup green onion, sliced

- 1 can cream of chicken soup undiluted

- 2 cups milk

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Bake cornbread according to package directions. Cool, then crumble; set aside. Combine squash and water in a saucepan, and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 8 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside. Melt butter in a skillet; add onion, celery, green pepper, and green onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender. Combine cornbread, squash, onion mixture, and remaining ingredients; spoon into a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees and 40 minutes or until thoroughly heated.

Pumpkin Crisp from Southern Living

- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin

- 1 cup evaporated milk

- 1 cup sugar

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1 (18.25 ounce) package butter flavored yellow cake mix

- 1 cup chopped pecans

- 1 cup butter, melted

- Whipped cream (optional)

- Ground nutmeg (optional)

Stir together first 5 ingredients. Pour into a lightly greased 13x9 inch baking dish. Sprinkle cake mix evenly over pumpkin mixture; sprinkle evenly with pecans. Drizzle butter evenly over pecans.

Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour and 5 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from over, and let stand 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream, if desired. Sprinkle with nutmeg, if desired. Makes 8-10 servings

So yummy and delicious! I will probably divide both of these recipes into two smaller dishes due to all the Thanksgivings that we have to go to!

Enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving!

May your Thanksgiving be full of good food, fun, and fellowship!

If I was Hosting Thanksgiving Dinner

2011-11-23T00:01:00.003-06:00

Source: astepinthejourney.blogspot.com via Haven on Pinterest

I would hope that it would look like this:

Source: cheepideas.com via Haven on Pinterest

My guests would be encouraged to:

Source: google.com via Haven on Pinterest

By putting their gratitude on the

Source: simplyvintagegirl.com via Haven on Pinterest

My table would look like this ...

Source: hgtv.com via Haven on Pinterest

Source: homestoriesatoz.com via Haven on Pinterest

Filled with delicious food like this ...

Source: bonappetit.com via Haven on Pinterest

Source: marthastewart.com via Haven on Pinterest

I would be sure to set a plate for my Woman of Hope.

Afterwards, my guests would sit around the living room drinking coffee and having desserts while we read what we wrote earlier on the Thankful Tree.

Source: marthastewart.com via Haven on Pinterest

Source: sweetapolita.com via Haven on Pinterest

Once everyone was full of thankfulness and food, we would start a congo line as we cleaned up the kitchen!

Doesn't this sound like fun! However we will not be hosting Thanksgiving but rather, we will be going to Mississippi to celebrate with family for Thanksgiving. Something I look forward to!

Host a Luke 14 Feast!

2011-11-22T00:01:00.001-06:00

Back in February, Middle Sister went to Sierra Leone, Africa. She went through Women of Hope International, Inc, and had a fabulous time. I mentioned before, the question is not when she is going back but rather, when is she going to move there.

This wonderful ministry has a new challenge that they would like for people to do, so if you live in North Mississippi, Southern Tennessee, or just would like to donate please check this out:

What a wonderful challenge and opportunity to support others. For more information click here.

Many blessings as we continue to be thankful for what we have been given each and every day.

Weekend Highlights ...

2011-11-20T14:09:00.003-06:00

This weekend was slow and sweet. It is nice to be able to work on things that you have putting on the back burner for quite some time as well as enjoy good food and good company.

Friday night we ate at the new Mellow Mushroom, and as always the food and experience was very nice. The most fabulous thing that they have at the new Mellow Mushroom - the Dyson Airblade.

Truly, this will change your whole life when it comes to drying your hands.

You just stick your hands in this machine and it literally took seconds to dry your hands.

We took turns going to the bathroom. Seriously.

It is the little things in life, people.

Saturday, I blew the dust off some of my favorite movies and had a "Powerful Female" movie marathon.

That or movies "with" Sam Shepard. I always wondered why Sam Shepard was so important that he is always cast as "with." Somebody please explain this.

During my movie marathon, I got busy making some Christmas Decoration because I am a crafty nerd. I used my hot glue gun all day without any third degree burns! I know, I know, it comes with age!

Even Tootsie was joining in on the fun by making sure that my burlap was nice and flat.

It cracks me up when she sits like this!

Sunday, I hit the ground running and got things ready for the week, tomorrow nights dinner in the crock pot, and began switching over summer and winter clothes in my closet. This would be before church. I have a dog that demands to be fed by at least 6:30 on weekends if not before. So once I am awake, I get going.

However, after a lovely meal at our local Mexican restaurant and a wild trip to Publix, I just about crashed and burned - but - there was laundry to do though, as always.

(I so need to turn off my buzzer on my dryer. It seems too impatient.)

Here's to a great Thanksgiving week! I hope that you all have a fabulous time with your family and friends and stuffing your face along the way!

Cooler Weather Floral ...

2011-11-18T00:01:00.002-06:00

I was very surprised to see all of these blooms on my Thanksgiving Cactus! It was like one day they were not there, and then BAM here we are! I do believe it will be in full bloom around Thanksgiving, and I could not be more excited!

This cactus is over 12 years old. It is from my Grandmother Hale's huge Christmas Cactus that my mother now has in her kitchen.

My first bloom!

I was also equally surprised when I was rummaging around and found my bag of paper whites that already had some shoots! I quickly planted those, and am enjoying watching them grow!

Hope you have a happy weekend!

Finds from the Weekend

2011-11-15T19:13:00.000-06:00

As I mentioned in my post before, we visited the Factory in Franklin, Tn. The Factory is an old stove factory where they have now turned it into a place for artists to share their work. They also have an antique store in which I found this beauty ...

I have been wanting one, and I found it in a booth that was crammed full of good stuff. The kind of booth where you wedge yourself in the middle of it and basically sit so you are surrounded by whimsical items. The price said $20, and I smiled and explained to the little fan that it would be going home with me!

As we traveled the back roads, we passed a Goodwill, were our car stopped on command. Luckily a TSC was next door, so my husband was occupied as I was in search of old books to tear apart. My heart may stop when I do this, but I am determine to make my Christmas decorations this year. Yes, I realize that this is crazy, believe me I get bugged eyed myself, but I just want to try it.

I was most excited over the dictionary and hymnal.

Can't wait to show you progress! For know the ideas are all in my head, and I hope I can make them as good as they appear in this crazy brain of mine.

Happy Wednesday!

Weekend Highlights ...

2011-11-13T20:50:00.000-06:00

This weekend, like most, was wonderful! I will start this post off similar to Sofia, however it will probably end up being a Rose Nylind story - AKA it will be long.

I am writing memories for us so that when we are older, Ken can pull out our blog books and read them to me so I can try to remember the good old days. Ha! (Name this movie)

Picture it:

A beautiful November weekend that started on a Thursday night as a happy couple made their way to Nashville for a quick getaway and to try to finish up some Christmas shopping.

They arrived at the hotel, where the valets insisted on valeting our car. Um, okay.

The 10th floor room was fabulous so a quick change over was due to go out on the town.

(Still trying to figure out this fixed lense!)

Downtown Nashville was hopping with fun bands, good food, and good times! What fun the happy couple had going from one place to the next.

It only took an hour before the lovely lady tore her panty hose. It seems that her hose only has a one time use stamped on them. Yes, I have stock in panty hose, why do you ask?

After a restful night sleeping in a king sized bed, glamorous I tell you, the lovely couple went downstairs to enjoy some breakfast.

This hotel was kinda fancy, and not being used to fancy, the couple simply helped themselves to the wonderful breakfast bar. Half way through, they realized that this breakfast was not complimentary. What a good laugh that they had over the bill. The breakfast was the most expensive meal of the day. You can't cry over spilled milk, but you better believe that they got a second plate of bacon.

(Clearly, we are not used to this kind of treatment. We like to go to hotels where we park our own cars and eat a free breakfast.)

After the lovely, expensive breakfast, they couple went back to their deal bargaining ways and used two Groupons for two tours that they would be doing on Friday. The first was a tour for two of the Ryman Auditorium where they thoroughly enjoyed the magic they felt there with the wooden pews, colored glass windows, and blinging outfits that have adorned the stage.

After this musical tour, they used the other Groupon for a tour for two at the Belmont Mansion. They were more impressed with this house than any house they toured in Savannah.

The rest of the day, they shopped 'til they dropped. Literally. It was 8:30, and they ordered pizza at a different hotel in Franklin, TN due to being so tired. Their goal was to finish their Christmas shopping, and they were halfway there.

The next morning, they began our Christmas shopping journey at the Cool Springs Mall. They chose to not have a repeat of Friday's breakfast, so they headed up to Chick-Fila. As they entered the food court, they saw several children dancing and quickly realized that the children was simply passing the time until the Rockettes came and did a number for all to see. Then Santa Claus came to take the children off to his village. Even the Chik-Fila cow came to the celebration.

Now that is what I call being wined and dined at breakfast - good food and good entertainment.

After a full day of accomplishing their goal, they meandered into downtown Franklin and visited The Factory at the suggestion of a friend. Who they ran into later at the Factory! :) It was so neat, and downtown Franklin was fascinating. They vowed that next year, they would be staying and doing more in Franklin!

They enjoyed the trip so much that they took the scenic route home and stumbled upon another town that was having a celebration! How much fun they had strolling around and looking at the excitement that the town had to offer!

It was a beautiful November weekend full of surprises and fulfillment! One that the lovely couple hopes to make a tradition!

You never know what you are going to see!

Merry Christmas Banner

2011-11-09T00:01:00.001-06:00

So I knew that I would be taking pictures with my crazy friends when we recently met up in Columbus, so I thought I could get a head start with some Christmas pictures. I so wanted a “Merry Christmas” banner, so

I decided to update my from last year!

So basically, you get modge podge (apparently the clearance kind from Walmart! :), a sponge brush, and glitter.

This is not the prettiest glitter, but it was what I had.

This is a very simple process:

Brush some modge podge on your letters and then glitter the heck out of it.

Occasionally take your finger and pat the glitter down. Add some jute and you have a very cute Christmas banner.

It was so simple. Really

Last year, Hobby Lobby had the “Christmas” banner and Ken made the “Merry” words out of wood for me. I now know that we can also save the cardboard from the cereal boxes and cut out words on my Cricut with the deep cutting blades. So great plans for this technique for Christmas!

So what is getting you in the Christmas spirit?

Weekend Highlights ... Birthday Edition

2011-11-06T17:23:00.000-06:00

I hope you all had a great weekend. I am so enjoying this weather with the sweet breeze on my face, colorful leaves falling all around, and being all warm and toasty at night! Just wonderful!

Well, a few days ago I mentioned I was almost 30, but it was official Wednesday.

I wasn't expecting much at all in terms of celebrating, but my family blew the lid off of this!

My husband cooked me pancakes for breakfast and gave me the most perfect card. I don't know how Hallmark knew our story, they just did, and made a birthday card out of it. He also gave me a new lense for my camera! Yay!

My parents along with Ken surprised me after school with 30 balloons from my sisters! Ha! They then whisked me after to my favorite restaurant where we met one of my cousins for dinner. My sweet mama made me a homemade New York Syle Cheesecake that was scrumptious. I am still enjoying this!

I received many birthday cards that I know have displayed in my living room!

The grand finale of my birthday was when Middle and Baby Sister came to visit and insisting on spoiling me all weekend!

Friday night I took them to the Po'boy Factory and we went to see Tower Heist. It was pretty interesting.

Saturday, we went to Lynchburg, TN where we ate at the famous Miss Mary Bobo's Boardinghouse.

May I say that it was delightfully delicious? Because it was.

My favorite was the Jack Daniel's apples and the fudge pie with Jack Daniel's whipping cream.

Then we went next door to the Jack Daniel's Distillery and toured the facilities. We used the facilites as a back drop of our photo shoot that we took throughout. Ha! If you remember, Middle Sister is a photographer. So pictures on this trip was a must!

Tour Guide!

Saturday night we went downtown and ate at a really good pizza place, and spent the rest of the evening riding around looking at the antebellum homes, cottages, and bungalows that many downtown neighbors consist of. We also rescued a white pumpkin! Ha!

This 30th birthday was very much cherished! Thank you to my family and friends that made it special!

I hope you have a wonderful week!

Wrapping Books

2011-11-04T00:01:00.002-05:00

Pinterest is a wonderfully addicting site full of creativity, tips, and inspiration.

I was totally inspired by this picture

Source: None via Haven on Pinterest

and decided to do something similar to my cookbooks.

Supplies:

• Craft Paper

• Jute

• Key Tags

• Scissors

• Tape

When I was wrapping these books, it reminded me of how we covered our books out of paper bags back in the day for school!

Some I made, I taped together, and some I just slipped on without taping. Then I wrote the name of the cookbook on the key tag, slipped it on some jute and tied it on!

I love the key tags and jute. I still wanted to be able to know the titles so this was very helpful.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Almost 30 ...

2011-11-01T00:01:00.001-05:00

I am almost 30 and yet, I am feeling that life is just beginning. I don't feel as old as I once thought 30 was, but I have noticed some changes

I am older and I have more insurance.

Just kidding ... maybe.

I notice that I care a little bit more about my appearance. I got a mini-makeover recently at the Clinic counter and the first words out of my mouth was "Wow, I look younger!" My sweet, darling, thank-goodness-his-eyesight-is-not-that-good husband agreed!

This is my almost 30 outfit ...

but after trying on those hose, um, those are a little too much for an almost 30 year old.

I also have the desire to want to exercise and be healthy. Desire would be the key word because my motivation is lacking.

I will think about that tomorrow.

I am looking forward to my birthday gift from my friends. One thing my friends and I have always done for birthdays is to combine our money for whatever the Birthday Girl wants under a certain amount. This year I have asked for a Victoria Secret gift cards.

Why you ask? I need a new bra. I feel that proper support may be necessary in my near future.

;)

I am older and I have more insurance.

How to Have a Simple Halloween

2011-10-30T21:31:00.000-05:00

For the first time in our married life of 2 years, we are actually home to celebrate Halloween. I am not one of those to go all out, but I did a few things ...

Candy is a must!

Lots and lots of candy ...

in treat bags that have been sitting in your attic for over 7 years! :)

A witches hat ... just for kicks

Please pardon the picture, for I know not what I did! :)

Trees that are balding beautifully ...

Oh those leaves!

Spookiness (What I awoke to Saturday morning!)

And you must not leave out the pumpkin!

Happy Halloween, my friends! May your tricks and treats be tasteful and fabulous!!!

P.S. I will be riding my broom tomorrow to school to get those pretties and maybe a little dog too, who will be dressed in her bumble bee costume!

Growth Chart

2011-10-27T00:01:00.002-05:00

After seeing this on Pinterest

Source: whipperberry.com via Haven on Pinterest

it had Lea Ann’s name written all over it. I just had to make it for Baby H’s nursery.

You can go here to see how WhipperBerry made her cute one! I didn’t add the name or the extra numbers, but I like the one I did all the same. It is something you can easily use with all your children and it is portable!

Vintage Baby Boy Shower

2011-10-25T00:01:00.001-05:00

This shower was for one of our best friends hosted by my best friends and me at the Back Door Resturant in Columbus, MS!

One of our college friends was at the shower and warned her friend that was coming along with her that “these girls are very creative …” I loved it. It made my day, because this shower was very cute and we had a lot of fun planning and decorating.

So I will just let you peruse the pictures to see for yourself!