Friday, December 18, 2009

The Pleated Poppy: Beautiful Imperfections of the Everyday!

Hey!! I wanted to introduce you to a wonderful little Blog I discovered while checking out a Fav blog of mine!! I think you're going to LOVE her!! I posted a little excerpt from her blog! You'll want to visit Lindsey's blog to get all the details and to check out all this clever woman has to say! I hope that you enjoy Lindsey's blog as much as I do!!



hi ! i'm lindsey cheney. i am married to an incredibly supportive husband and am mom to 3 littles, 6 and under. my days are full of sewing, home schooling, crafting, snuggling, avoiding the laundry, sneaking bites of chocolate, and wondering "is it naptime yet?"



Excerpt from Bible Carriers For Kiddos by Lindsey Cheney

"does anyone feel like we've lost the sight of what christmas really is?
it is so often all about what you get, especially when you're a kid.
now, i'm not a total grinch and not giving my kids anything, but i do want to give in a manner that is respectful to the celebration of christmas and to not encourage utter gluttony.

so here's our philosophy on christmas gift giving (to our kids):
3 gifts for each kid (as a reminder of the 3 gifts jesus was given)
1 "santa gift" - usually the toy they asked for or the biggest gift. last year it was bikes.
a few small gifts in their stockings - i try really hard not to give junk that i will want to toss in a week.

so this year we decided to get our girls new bibles.
not that anything was wrong with what they have, but the tiny ones without pictures are too advanced for gracie to read and comprehend right now, and lily really doesn't get something new very often, so it would be nice for her to get a bible not handed down."


Wednesday, December 16, 2009

What do you Tell your Kids about Santa Claus?

True Story of St Nicholas
Story Used Courtesy of Devotions. Thank You!
St Nicholas should be an inspiration to us all for he was a Godly man whose reputation for giving to people less fortunate to himself was a wonderful example of compassion and shows to us all what giving is really about.

He was not a jolly fat man who supposedly climbed down chimneys and didn’t have flying reindeer to pull his sledge along either.

St Nicholas known to many as Santa Claus was a totally different man to the so called Santa Claus we hear of today. St Nicholas was a kind and considerate man who lived a life full of Christian belief and values a man who gave without counting the cost to those who were less fortunate than himself.

The real story of Christmas is the true story of Jesus, God’s one and only and most precious son. The greatest gift anyone could ever receive. Our Heavenly Father is the real giver of gifts and St Nicholas certainly knew the real gift-giver.

The story of St Nicholas starts in Turkey, in the third century and he was a Christian. St Nicholas’ parents had prayed and asked God for a child, much the same as Abraham and Sarah had done. Nicholas was born around 280 A.D. and was considered by his parents to be truly a gift from God. Diligently Nicholas was taught, as all Christians children should be taught the true devotions of God and to be generous and helpful to the poor and those less fortunate than himself.

Nicholas’ parents both died when he was in his teens their heritage of living for God and giving to the poor was continued in Nicholas himself.

Ordained as a teenager Nicholas entered the priesthood at the age of 19. His uncle, the bishop who ordained him prophesied that Nicholas would offer guidance and consolation to many people and that he would eventually become a bishop himself and that he would live a life of enlightenment. Eventually he did become a bishop of a small coastal village and his influence spread into many nations.

Many accounts have been written about the life of Nicholas. It was said that he would spend all night studying God’s Word to bring it to the people. He was known for helping the poor, for praying, fasting, and standing steadfast in faith and goodness. There were many accounts of miracles that were brought about through his faith and prayers. Among the accounts of his ministry is the report of the twin brothers who were raised from the dead. It was written about him that that one could hardly keep count of the virtue and goodness that he spread around him.

One particular story of St Nicholas ‘ goodness is the reason many pictures show him with three golden spheres. These represent three bags of gold that he gave to the poor man so that his three daughters could be married. The man was so poor that his daughters had no dowries, and he was so desperate he was planning to sell them into slavery. To keep this from happening, Nicholas threw a bag of gold pieces through the man’s window at night so no one would know who had done it. He wanted God to get the credit for it. Because of this, the eldest daughter had a dowry. She was no longer an outcast and therefore could be married.

Not long after that, Nicholas did the same thing for the second daughter, saving her from a similar fate. When he did it for the third daughter the father caught him. Nicholas made the father swear an oath that he would never reveal who was responsible for the gifts as long as he was alive.

When Nicholas died on 6 December A.D. 343 he is said to have quoted Psalm 11 with his last breath; “In the Lord I put my truth”

In the Greek language the word Nicholas means “victorious” or “hero of the people” and he certainly did become a very popular figure in the centuries that followed his death.

Story’s of Nicholas spread throughout Greece and into Russia, he became popularly known as the patron saint of the Russians who called him “Nikolai”, the wonder worker.

In 1087, the remains of St Nicholas’ grave were moved and transported to Bari, Italy, where a basilica was built in his honor. Soon after this his popularity spread throughout Italy and across western Europe.

December 6, the day of his death, became St Nicholas Day on the roman catholic calendar, the custom of gift-giving on this date began in France and spread right across Europe.

Similarities between Nicholas’ characteristics can be seen in the Santa Claus character, as he is known worldwide. He gave gifts at night and was not to be seen by anyone. Haven said that one has to ask how did the story of this Godly man get turned into the lie we know it today, the story of elf’s workshops, the North Pole and much, much more.

In the 1500’s, during the Protestant Reformation, the worshiping of Saints was denounced and St Nicholas day was no longer observed in England.

In Holland and Belgium the traditional day of 6 December was still celebrated. There Sinter Klaas rode through the streets on a white horse, rewarding good children with treats and toys and giving rods or switches to bad children.

In Germany, the saint was referred to as “Nicholas dressed in fur” and also left sweets for good children and rods for the bad ones.

Christopher Columbus brought the first celebration of Nicholas Day to the New World when he landed in the West Indies on 6 December 1492, and named the harbor Port of St Nicholas, in honor of the patron saint of sailors.

All of these traditions blended with immigration to the New World. As the English and Dutch came together and intermarried, Father Christmas and Sinter Klaas blended into one figure. Dutch Americans eventually adopted 25 December as their day of celebration and by the end of the Civil War, St Nicholas the bishop was generally known in the United States as Santa Claus.

The Poem “Twas the night before Christmas” further shaped the American Santa. Another popular poem, originally titled, “A visit from St Nicholas” was penned by New York professor Clement Moore

In the 1800’s and created a word picture portraying a round-bellied Santa with a huge pack on his back. Picking up on the image, cartoonist Thomas Nast added a North Pole toy workshop in his cartoons for Harper Weekly magazine. In 1925, a large corporation ran an advertising campaign of Santa Claus further defining him as a large man with a red and white fur suit, black boots, and a long flowing beard, the closest depiction of our present day Santa.

The American Santa Claus came from a melting pot of Old World cultures and characters. He is the Dutch Sinter Klaas and the Lutheran Kris Kringle who bring gifts for children. His red garment is lined with fur like the German version of Nicholas, and he spreads merriment and cheer like Father Christmas. A team of reindeer, borrowed from the Russian legend, accompanies Santa Claus on his journey through the night.

The tragic part in all this is how the devil has twisted and distorted a wonderful story of a man of God into this fantasiful character of nothing but deceit and lies. A man that had such a fullness of faith in God that even the dead were raised and miracles carried out. He was popular because of his reputation of honour, putting others first, caring for those less fortunate, and giving without counting the cost. Again it is clear to see that devil has got in with his devious ways, taking the true story of Godly and caring man and turning into nothing but a fat bellied, pipe smoking, pie eating individual with flying reindeer and elf’s as workers.

The story of the true St Nicholas is a beautiful picture of the caring, loving, humble, devoted man of God who went out of his way to help others without them knowing. Giving and not counting the cost, these are the true values of a true Christian. No fancy coat and boots, no gifts for the good and rods and switches for the bad, no flying reindeer or elf or other tales of fantasy. No lies to the children that Santa gives, gives, gives to those who want, want, want! No fairy stories or lies just good solid Christian values.

Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name….
He is the one that gives us the best gift we could ever hope for.
He is the one that not only gave us a child for Christmas, he gave us baby Jesus.
He gave us a gift for every day of the year, one that would fulfill us beyond all we could ever dream of, one that would provide for us a doorway from the lies and deceit in this world. One that would mean we would never need to worry about how many presents we have to give, one that would mean we would be set free and free indeed.
Free from sin, free from lies, free from the devious and deceitful tricks of the evil one.
One that would provide for all our needs according to His riches and glory in heaven and providing we say with our lips and mean in our heart that ‘ we believe Jesus is the Promised One, the Savior of the world’ and confess our sins to Jesus whom was given all authority by God himself, accepting the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost into our hearts and our lives, then and only then will we have no need to worry in this life and will have received the guaranteed eternal life. We will be born again and will have peace within, the peace of God which passes all understanding.

That my friends is the greatest gift we could ever hope for,
it is free to us all and is a gift from God not just for Christmas Day but for every day of the year. Accept Jesus into your heart today, repent, and be born again.

The Christmas Tradition of Saint Nicholas, Belsnickle, Kris Kringle, & Santa Claus

For who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. ~ 1st Corinthians 2:16

Saint Nicholas was born of wealthy parents in the year 280 in a small town called Patara in Asia Minor. He lost his parents early by Christian Christmas Tradition of Saint Nicholas, Belsnickle, Kris Kringle, Chris Kringle, Santa Claus an epidemic but not before they had instilled in him the gift of faith. Then little Nicholas went to Myra and lived a life full of sacrifice and love in the spirit of Jesus. Nicholas became so Christ like that when the town needed a bishop, he was elected. Saint Nicholas was even imprisoned for his faith, but later released. There have been many stories of his generosity and compassion: how he begged for food for the poor, and how he would give girls money so that they would have a dowry to get a husband. The story most often repeated was about how Saint Nicholas would put on a disguise and go out and give gifts to poor children.

But the story of Saint Nicholas has spread around the world. There are more churches in the world named for Saint Nicholas than for any other person in all of the history of the church. We know him today by many names: Belsnickle, Kris Kringle, Santa Claus. With all Saint Nicholas does and brings to the season, what's most important about Saint Nicholas is that he had the mind of Christ. Because of his gentle, selfless love, he has touched the whole world. And this same mind of Christ is to be in us.

Story Courtesy of Moores Chapel!

A Christmas Creed




I believe in Jesus Christ and in the beauty of the gospel begun in Bethlehem.

I believe in the one whose spirit glorified a little town; and whose spirit still brings music to persons all over the world, in towns both large and small.

I believe in the one for whom the crowded inn could find no room, and I confess that my heart still sometimes wants to exclude Christ from my life today.

I believe in the one who the rulers of the earth ignored and the proud could never understand; whose life was among common people, whose welcome came from persons of hungry hearts.

I believe in the one who proclaimed the love of God to be invincible:

I believe in the one whose cradle was a mother's arms, whose modest home in Nazareth had love for its only wealth, who looked at persons and made them see what God's love saw in them, who by love brought sinners back to purity, and lifted human weakness up to meet the strength of God.

I confess my ever-lasting need of God: The need of forgiveness for our selfishness and greed, the need of new life for empty souls, the need of love for hearts grown cold.

I believe in God who gives us the best of himself. I believe in Jesus, the son of the living God, born in Bethlehem this night, for me and for the world.

Walter Russell Bowie

Thank You to Blessings of Christmas for the lovely Picture and Christmas Creed!

Snapfish: Custom Photo Calendar for $5.99 shipped!

Snapfish: Custom Photo Calendar for $5.99 shipped!

"Today only, if you sign up here for a new account with Snapfish, you'll get a credit added to your account for a free Photo Calendar plus 50 free prints. Shipping is only $5.99 for the Photo Calendar, so it would make a very practical, frugal, and fun Christmas gift!"

Courtesy of Money Saving Mom! Click on the title and go directly to the site to learn more about this amazing offer!!

Monday, November 30, 2009

Only two days left to get your 100 free photo cards from SeeHere!

Only ONE DAY left to get your 100 free photo cards from SeeHere!

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Homemade Vanilla Extract


Homemade Vanilla Extract

"I absolutely love vanilla extract! Talk about a fun, easy and delicious homemade gift idea! Organic vanilla extract can be quite spendy at the store, and with these cute jars you cannot go wrong in blessing family and friends and your own kitchen cupboard. I made 6 (4 oz bottles) this last weekend and they are steeping away nicely in my cupboard ready for Christmas baskets."

Be sure to go to Passionate Homemaking to get the recipe and how to!!

homemade peppermint extract


homemade peppermint extract

Posted using ShareThis

"I tried making peppermint cookies a few years ago. They were very festive to look at- dark chocolate cookies with pieces of candy cane spread throughout; but they tasted TERRIBLE! The peppermint flavor was way off and I blame the peppermint extract I used. This year I am making my own and know the cookies will taste much better with homemade peppermint extract in them!

It is so EASY to make! All you need is a few sprigs of fresh peppermint and vodka."



Please check out 5 Orange Potatoes to learn how to make your own Peppermint Extract!

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Our Jesse Tree: A Focused Advent Celebration


Our Jesse Tree: A Focused Advent Celebration

When I went to my favorite blog today I saw that Lindsey had posted this beautiful and meaningful post about the Jesse Tree. I hadn't heard of this before and so I was fascinated! I think you will too find it fascinating and perhaps consider starting this tradition in your home! Be sure to share it with family and friends! Here is part of what Lindsey had to say. Be sure to click on the title to go directly to her blog and get the full story and list of resources!!

"Last year, I was introduced to the idea of a Jesse Tree as a purposeful way to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and our family loves it!

The name “Jesse Tree” comes from Isaiah 11:1-2: A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him— the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD.”

The Jesse Tree idea centers around Jesus as the fulfillment of this prophesy being the “stump of Jesse”. I had a blast beginning to assemble my own homemade ornaments to add to our tree throughout the Advent season. Each ornament represents a different story, starting at the beginning of Creation and working all the way to the coming of Christ Jesus. Each reading shows how all the Old Testament points towards the coming of Christ as the Messiah. The Jesse Tree gives such a beautiful picture into seeing how each story of the Bible speaks about God. Each story is a little whisper of His name and a glimpse into character, plan and purpose. The Jesse Tree is a form of Advent, in which you read one story each day from November 30-December 25. It is a fun and purposeful opportunity to sit down as a family and read more about His coming, but also have a visual representation through each ornament."

Friday, November 13, 2009

It came in!! My Etsy Christmas gifts!!




I am so excited!! Check out Valentine Studios for yourself!! You won't regret it!!

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Etsy for Christmas!


There are many unique and beautiful gifts to be found on Etsy! They can be bought on any budget as well! Like this adorable necklace (pictured above) I was able to purchase for only $5! What a beautiful, frugal and unique gift! I am so excited! You can purchase this necklace and others like it from ValentineStudios and you'll love what they have to offer! You can find a great number of handcrafted items for everyone on your list! Have some frugal Christmas fun!

Monday, November 9, 2009

Here He IS!!! BOLT~Our Super Hero Dog!!


We are so thrilled to have Bolt with us! We were able to complete the adoption Saturday, November 7th, 2009 and that will officially be his Birthday! They thought he was about 2 years old~so fully grown and yet so very tiny! They found him wandering around in the streets so the New Nodaway Humane Society took him in and cared for him until we were able to adopt him and give him a new home and be his family! We love him so much! He has taken to us already and is very protective! He is an excellent house dog~no accidents! What a blessing he has been already. We hope that we will be a blessing to him as well!

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

BIG NEWS!!



We are getting a Toy Rat Terrier!! We are so very excited! He is our Christmas Gift to ourselves and our gift to the New Nodaway Humane Society! We are so excited and so thankful to give this little guy a home! The kids want to name him BOLT! :) We will post pics of him after his adoption is complete. For now, you'll have to see pics of other adorable Toy Rat Terriers! If you decide to Adopt, please contact your local humane society or do some research online! These adorable Rat Terriers need a good, loving home and you can contact New Rattitude!

Out of the Box Christmas Gift Idea!!

How many of you are Animal Lovers? Know some one who is? How about adopting a pet or making a donation in their name? This is a great way to give a sweet animal love and a family or just better care at their shelter. Below is an excerpt from M'Shoogy's, Famous Animal Rescue!




" M'Shoogy's is a no-kill animal sanctuary that has been dedicated to saving the lives of abandoned, injured, and abused animals for many years. The 22 acre refuge is located about 60 miles north of Kansas City in Savannah, Missouri and is currently home to several hundred dogs, cats, and other animals. Unfortunately at this point in time M'Shoogy's is at full capacity, is running very low on funds and volunteers, and is unable to accept additional animals unless they are injured or abused (and with prior authorization from M'Shoogy's only). We will continue to support our current residents for as long as we can. Keep reading to see how you can help...

WE NEED YOU
!!! Not only do we need caring individuals to adopt our animals, we also need volunteers! From feeding and watering to assisting with adoptions, we have volunteer positions open now! If you want a rewarding way to spend some of your free time, please contact us today at 816-561-1635 or at info@mshoogys.com.

HELP! We are in desperate need of people willing to adopt our animals. We are in a rural area which means that we don't have nearly the amount of "walk-in" traffic that places like Wayside Waifs and the Humane Society do. The dogs and cats of M'Shoogy's are relying on animal lovers like you to be willing to drive a few extra miles to adopt a pet. We have many special needs cases (seniors, medical situations, behavioral issues) that just don't do well in a shelter setting. Please consider adopting a M'Shoogy's resident today!"

TWITTER!!

I finally did it! I opened up a Twitter account! I am such a goon! :) Just thought it would be fun! You should totally check it out and follow me! :) Looking forward to seeing you on Twitter!!

Make sure to Click on the Title (I haven't figured out how to get the widget yet! :) )

Monday, November 2, 2009

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!!

Do you want to give some unique Christmas gifts this year, but don’t want to spend a lot of money? You can find gifts that are both cheap and thoughtful. Here are ten easy ideas for inexpensive holiday gifts that are sure to please.

1. Fun, trendy watch. You can buy watches in all shapes and colors from around $8 to $20 at discount department stores and flea markets. Include a note in the box that says something like, “I always enjoy our time together”. If giving this to a teacher, you could thank them for all the “time” they’ve spent teaching your child.

2. Mini recipe book of your favorite recipes. Buy a small, inexpensive photo album that holds one 4 x 6 photo per page (usually just a dollar or two at craft stores). Print, type or write your recipes onto 4 x 6 recipe cards and insert in the sleeves meant for photos. After you’ve made the first set, make multiple photocopies of all the recipe cards. That way you can easily make more personal recipe books for other people this year or anytime.

3. Gourmet chocolate pretzels. These sell in specialty stores for $20 for around a dozen large pretzel rods. But you can make your own homemade version for a fraction of the cost. All you need is the pretzels, chocolate melts (most craft stores have these for under $2 a bag), and optional things like chopped nuts, mini chips or sprinkles. Simply melt the chocolate, dip the pretzels rods until about half of the pretzel is covered, then roll in the toppings and let them set upside down in a cup.

4. Handmade framed name print. Research the meaning of the person’s name from a baby naming website. Use your computer graphics or word processing program to type his or her name in large letters in a nice font. Put the meaning of their name in smaller letters under the name. Print it on pretty background paper, such as 8 1/2 x 11 scrapbook paper from a craft store. Trim to fit a small frame purchased from a discount department store or dollar store.

5. Night at the movies. You can make this inexpensive by just picking up a $5 gift card for a movie rental and a box of microwave popcorn. Or you can make it a bigger gift by adding a large bowl for the popcorn, a gift card for multiple rentals, and perhaps some DVDs.

6. Flashlight that doesn’t need batteries. This is a very practical gift that almost anyone can use. Depending on the model, you either shake the flashlight or wind it up. They really work and you never have to worry about dead batteries. The price range is between $10 and $20.

7. Photo ornament. You can find these in all kinds of stores, some are quite inexpensive and look like little holiday photo frames. Just insert a photo of your friend, their pet or children and you’ve got a very personalized gift.

8. Custom gift card from you. If you’re short on cash, but not on sentiment, you can print a gift card that promises babysitting, a car wash, running errands, lessons, etc. If you love to bake, but don’t have time around the holidays, give a gift card redeemable for your specialty in January.

9. Personalized giant candy bar. This one is so easy. Buy a big Hershey bar and replace the outer wrapper with your custom wrapper. You can print one of the many free Christmas chocolate bar wrappers found on the internet. Some of them even have places for you to put a photo and your own words. Or make it yourself by tracing the original wrapper and cutting it out from nice holiday paper. Then just tape or glue in place.

10. Personalized magnet, button, key ring or pocket mirror. For just a couple of dollars, this one of a kind little gift can’t be beat. There are companies on the internet that will put any funny or inspiration quote or your own message on one of their products. Whatever the person’s hobby, interest, or job, there is a saying or quotation out there that would be perfect for them.

A thoughtful Christmas gift doesn’t have to cost a lot of money or require hours of searching through crowded malls. All that is needed is your big heart and imagination.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Fun ideas for Christmas Baskets Part 2!!

Challenge: Try to make or buy each item for under $10!!

1. Gourmet coffees with a personal coffee cup
2. Pound of pistachios
3. Make a sock monkey or sock puppets or finger puppets from gloves!
4. Journal with special inscription inside
5. Teacup with box of herbal tea
6. Deck of cards and book of card game rules
7. Homemade cocoa mix in a pretty jar
8. Collage of special photos
9. Gel pens and pretty stationary
10. Bottle of sparkling cider
11. Home baked bread, include recipe
12. Disposable camera or rolls of film (esp. for those not using digital yet)
13. Basket filled with deli cheese and fruit
14. Craft supplies
15. Holiday serving bowl or platter
16. Pencils and markers (washable)and some construction paper
17. Decorative napkins and napkin rings
18. Fancy chocolate bars tied with a ribbon
19. Gardening gloves with a plant or flower seeds
20. Photo album, hand decorated is even better
21. Makeup tote
22. Prepaid photo developing envelopes
23. Homemade cookie mix with instructions for baking
24. Variety of bread mixes
25. Special coffee cup filled with candy
26. Fancy magazines tied together with a pretty ribbon
27. Gourmet popcorn and flavored oil
28. Locally made barbeque or steak sauce with basting brush
29. Pancake or waffle mix and a bottle of real maple syrup
30. Movie theater gift certificates
31. Board games
32. Jar of pure honey with biscuit mix
33. Note cards and book of stamps
34. Picture frames, buy them on sale!
35. Specialty cookbook (a mini one made with pics of you and the kids making the foods are great gifts too)
36. Pretty glass jar filled with candy
37. Collectible sports cards
38. Muffin mixes with muffin pan
39. Christmas ornaments
40. Set of dish towels and dish cloths
41. Nail polish kit
42. Pretty pajamas
43. Basket filled with kitchen gadgets
44. Calendar for the new year with Family pics in it (great one for grandparents)
45. Pepper mill and fresh peppercorns
46. Handwritten copies of your favorite recipes on pretty handmade note cards
47. For the pets, gourmet dog biscuits or cat treats (homemade ones make this idea even more economical)
48. Baking pans and supplies
49. Prepaid long distance phone cards/or cards for Cell phone apps
50. Small clock or radio
51. Pretty box for keepsakes
52. Colorful Post-It notepads
53. Address book
54. Christmas ornaments
55. Puzzles
56. DVD/CD's
57. Sewing supplies
58. First Aid Kit for the Car
59. Favorite quote embroidered on a nice handkerchief
60. Makeup brush set
61. Expensive socks, still under $10
62. Bath Puffs,set of wash cloths, or a new super soft towel

Friday, October 23, 2009

Fun ideas for Christmas Baskets!

1. Homemade jellies and jams.
2. Breads
3. Cookies
4. Pies
5. Candies/pretzels/fudge/oreo balls
6. Candles (homemade or bought)
7. Homemade soaps and bath salts
6. Handmade aprons
7. Handmade dolls, toys, and blankets
8. Monogrammed Pillowcases and Pillowcase Dresses
9. Flashlights, tools, and universal remotes
10. Books for children and adults
11. Crayons (homemade or store bought)
12. Stickers (and other scrapbooking things for the scrap booker! )
13. Gift cards/certificates
14. Magazine subscriptions
15. Netflix/Blockbuster subscriptions
16. Grocery card/Gas card
17. Fun socks,ties,t-shirts,underwear!
18. Bubbles (homemade of course)
19. Play-doh (homemade too)
20. Cards/pictures/paintings made by your and/or your children!!

I hope that these ideas are helpful and useful! Do you have a creative, useful, thrifty idea? Post it here! I'd love to hear from you!

How to Make Thrifty Gift Baskets!!



"Gift baskets are a great gift to pamper the people on a birthday or Christmas gift list. Store bought gift baskets can be expensive, though. It is easy to make gift baskets at home for less, though, and it can be fun!

Getting Started

The average home-made gift basket will cost around ten dollars, making it a really perfect gift to give for the budget conscious.

The first item required for making gift baskets it the basket, of course. The conscious shopper can find some really nice baskets at thrift stores for as little as 50 cents a piece. Shoppers should make sure that the basket is well made, clean, and has no loose pieces.

While at the thrift store, the shopper should look for ribbon. Many thrift stores have a craft section with rolls of nice ribbon for around 10 cents.

Next, the shopper should take a trip to the local dollar store. Many dollar stores or just-a-buck stores have tons of items for really interesting and personalized baskets.

Finishing the Basket


Once all of the supplies are ready, it is time to assemble the basket. The gift giver should take all the products out of their wrappers, unless it will make a mess if the wrappers are taken off. The shredded paper should be put into the bottom of the basket so that the basket is half full. The tallest items should be arranged at the back of the basket, with the smaller, more attractive items at the front. A bow should be added to the top and the gift basket is done!"


Be sure to click on the Title to go to the website to see ideas for making baskets for men, women and children!! They are creative and fun! Be Thrifty this year! Have Fun!!

How to Give the BEST Frugal, Thrifty Christmas Gifts - No Scrooge Here | eHow.com


How to Give the BEST Frugal, Thrifty Christmas Gifts - No Scrooge Here | eHow.com

So many of us are looking for ways to be thrifty and frugal this Holiday season! I hope to be posting many ways you can do just that in the coming days and weeks before Christmas gets here. I found some useful hints and ideas as well as links to FREE things on this e-how website!! Be sure to visit it today! I would love to hear your thoughts and ideas as well! Please share! Be wise, Be frugal, HAVE FUN!!

handmade holidays- frog and pollywog from a sweater



handmade holidays- frog and pollywog from a sweater

Posted using ShareThis

SO CUTE AND SUCH AN ADORABLE IDEA FOR CHRISTMAS!! GO TO 5 ORANGE POTATOES (by clicking the title) and see more cute ideas!

Friday, October 16, 2009

Gluten Free Make-up!

"Why is it important for someone with Celiac Disease to avoid gluten laced make-up? Celiac Disease is a digestive disease that damages the small intestine and interferes with absorption of nutrients from food. People who have Celiac Disease cannot tolerate gluten, a protein in wheat, rye, and barley. Gluten is found mainly in foods but may also be found in everyday products such as shampoo, medicines, vitamins, and lip balms, lipstick and other make-up. It's said that the average woman ingests up to four pounds of lipstick over a lifetime. Many lipsticks, lip gloss and lip balm available today currently contain wheat based ingredients that could negatively affect the stability and health of someone with Celiac Disease when ingested. All of Afterglow's products are 100% gluten free. We have countless customers with Celiac Disease that do react to the gluten in their body care and makeup products. These customers have found that Afterglow is the only brand they can safely wear without a reaction. If you have Celiac Disease, you may think that the ingredients in your cosmetics won't affect you. They may or may not. The real question is, why wouldn't you switch to a line of cosmetics that is beautiful, all natural, good for your skin, good for your body, and, (just in case!) gluten free?"
From: Afterglow Cosmetics



Have you ever thought about using gluten free make-up? If you are like me, you've never thought about it before. I wanted to do this post for those who are looking, curious, and just because I thought it would be helpful. Please enjoy and if you have more information, please share!! I'd love to know more!

"What is gluten allergy or celiac disease? It is an auto-immune disease of the intestines, caused by and allergy to gluten. Gluten is found in wheat , rye, malt, oats and barley. The symptoms are wide ranging, from indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, extreme fatigue and depression, severe weight loss, abdominal rashes, and if left untreated cancer. In the U.S. 1 in 133 people have gluten allergies.Maintainig a gluten free diet and using gluten free products are essential as continued exposure is detrimental. Common gluten free foods are alternative flours ( rice, soy , potato and tapioca), corn, beans and flour to name a few."
From:Monave

Both of the websites I quoted have Gluten Free makeup! Be sure to check them out today! They are filled with a ton of very useful information and you will be amazed at all you will learn. I know I learned a lot and I am hoping that by posting this, I can be helpful to others.

"Imagine a store where nothing is off limits. A store where someone has already read all the labels and made all the calls. A store where everything is gluten-free and celiac-safe. A store where you can choose anything you like and not have to worry.
Imagine a shop packed with the best gluten-free groceries from around the world. Pasta from Italy. Soup from England. Rice from Bhutan, high in the Himalayas. Chocolate from the Ivory Coast. English muffins from that little bakery in New Jersey. And all gluten-free.
That store exists. In Milwaukee and online. For you."

Gluten-Free Trading Company

LIFE WITH OUT GLUTEN

"Our goal is to provide the best information, to act as a gluten free guide, helping you find information about gluten free diets, and research foods you can eat everyday. Whether you seek this information for yourself or a loved one, we can help you find the recipes and restaurants to make eating out and dining at home an easier process. Common conditions that cause gluten intolerance include wheat allergy, dermititis herpetiformis (dh), irritable bowel syndrome (ibs), celiac sprue (also known as celiac disease, cd, or just as sprue,and often misspelled as ciliac or seliac). Some people help maintain a basic diet for celiac kids, or kids with autism, while others choose to live a gluten-free lifestyle (gfl) for dieting purposes, or just for overall health. No matter what your reasons are, we hope that when you visit a restaurant with friends and family, you will think about how much fun you are having, instead of worrying about the amount of gluten in the food, and when you cook, you will feel confident that the ingredients in the recipe will conform to your health needs."

From:Life Without Gluten

And of course, if you want Organic, you can check out Organic Valley! ORGANIC VALLEY

Happy Gluten Free Shopping!!!

Monday, October 12, 2009

PH is Sponsoring a Cambodian Orphan Home! Join Us!


PH is Sponsoring a Cambodian Orphan Home! Join Us!

Lindsay Edmonds of Passionatehomemaking has a heart and passion for the orphans in Cambodia. Please Click on the Title to go Directly to her Blog and read more about her passion and how you can be involved! Make today the day you make a difference in someones life who is in great need. God asks us to care for the widowed and orphaned. Let's join together and share some of our great bounty from God with others and let us share God's great and abundant love!! Click the Title NOW!!

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Simple & Frugal Children’s Bedroom Decor


Simple & Frugal Children’s Bedroom Decor

Chasing Cheerio's Blog
has the instructions to making these fun, frugal and great looking book shelves! Be sure to check it out! And for more on frugal children's room decor~Click on the title!!

Sew a Split Stitch


Sew a Split Stitch

Posted using ShareThis

split stitched felt leaves


split stitched felt leaves

Posted using ShareThis

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

ivory soap experiment (ptoe, oxygen)




ivory soap experiment (ptoe, oxygen)

Posted using ShareThis

I found this amazingly fun and of course totally educational experiment on 5 Orange Potatoes!! You'll love it! Be sure to click on the title to go to 5 Orange Potatoes and learn how to do this with your little ones! You'll love it! The photos are from 5 Orange Potatoes!!

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Green your Face Wash!!

If you are like me, you are always looking to go Green with out braking the bank! Making your own products would be my favorite way to go! Buying in bulk is wonderful and you can make a lot of products that way. I found a wonderful website with a recipe to make your own face wash.

"Making your own face wash helps you go green because…


* You have total control over the ingredients in your face wash, eliminating harmful chemicals that serve as preservatives, synthetic detergents and artificial fragrances in conventional face washes.
* There is no energy wasted on shipping or packaging.
"


These quotes are taken from GreenYour.com

For the full article, be sure to visit GreenYour's website.

How to make your own face wash


1. Mix oatmeal and sugar with water to create a natural, cleansing facial scrub.[1]
2. Steam your face for a deep cleanse. Lean over a bowl of boiling water and drape a towel over your head. Add essential oils or herbs like lavender and rosemary to the water if desired.[2]
3. Mash bananas with honey or avocados with olive oil and smooth on face for 15-20 minutes for clean, smooth skin.[3]
4. Milk is a popular natural cleanser due to the beta-hydroxyl and lactic acids that exfoliate and smooth skin. Leave milk on the skin for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off thoroughly.[4] Because milk is an animal by-product, buy local or organic milk to support cruelty-free dairy products if you are concerned.


Glossary

* parabens: This family of preservatives (which includes methyl-, ethyl-, propyl- and butyl-parabens) can affect the endocrine system, which produces the body's hormones.
* phenoxyethanol: A toxic chemical that poses potential risks to pregnancy, fertility and early human development.[9]
* triclosan: An antibacterial agent that can cause everything from skin and eye irritation to the formation of dioxin and chloroform under the right circumstances. Both are probable carcinogens.


Recipe was taken from GreenYour.com.

Monday, September 21, 2009

CLARIFICATIONS!!

The most recent postings I have made about the GIVEAWAYS I want to be very CLEAR that they are GIVEAWAYS from my favorite blog PASSIONATE HOMEMAKING by Lindsay Edmonds. She has an amazing Blog filled with a lot of useful information and fun giveaways too! Please note that any and all information posted about her blog comes directly from her blog and you should always click on the TITLE or on the DIRECT LINKS posted on each post. This will take you DIRECTLY TO HER BLOG where you can find all the relevant information on each post that I have posted about her blog! I want to make sure this amazing woman and totally awesome blogger gets all the credit!! Thank you very much!
Amy

Anniversary Celebration: Cultures for Health Giveaway!


Have you heard of the wonderful starter cultures and kefir grains offered by Cultures for Health? I recently stumbled upon this company and was delighted not only to find they were local to me, but also to see the excellent line of healthy cultural starter kits they offer to get you started on boasting your health with probiotics.

Have you been wanting to make your own homemade yogurt? Simple. With Cultures for Health yogurt starter and standard milk, you just combine it with a quart of milk and let it sit on your counter for 12 hours. If you use raw milk, you can make your own raw milk yogurt without even heating the milk (beyond preparing your starter) and it turns out amazingly thick and creamy. You can protect the majority of the delicate nutrients in raw milk this way! You only have to heat a small portion of milk to build your starter and from there you can add a bit of this starter to your raw milk and set it on the counter and it will culture in a matter of hours. It is the best homemade yogurt I have tried yet – rich and creamy. If you take proper care of your starter, you will only have to purchase the dehydrated starter once and away you go! The yogurt starter comes with very clear directions for using pasteurized or raw milk.

Cultures for Health also offers water kefir grains, milk kefir grains, sourdough starter, buttermilk starter and also sorts of sprouting and fermenting tools. This is a great place to stock up on some helpful tools for natural eating. These products will save you money by allowing you to make it yourself! Not only is it economical, but it will be more nutritious and fresh coming from your kitchen!

Today, Cultures for Health is offering three winners the choice of their favorite culture starter! Your choices include: milk or water kefir grains, one of the three yogurt starters, kombucha starter, sourdough starter or buttermilk starter.


Anniversary Celebration: Cultures for Health Giveaway!

Another GIVE AWAY posted by my favorite blogger: Passionate Homemaking!! Click on the Title to go directly her blog!

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Anniversary Celebration: NaturOli Body Products giveaway!


Anniversary Celebration: NaturOli Body Products giveaway!


Today, we invite you to check out NaturOli’s line of natural skin care products. I think you will be pleasantly surprised by the wonderful selection of body care that NaturOli offers. You will find NaturOli’s products rate very low on the Skin Deep Database, and are very high quality, wonderfully nourishing to the skin, and perfectly safe for you and your family. They give complete full disclosure on the ingredients in each item. My favorite skin care product in their line has been the soap nuts soap bars. They use soap nuts in their recipe to provide a delightful soap for all your bathing needs. The crushed soap nuts make it a bit rough to apply directly to the skin, but if you lather it up between you hands before applying, it is well worth the effort! We use it on all of us now and love it! No more dry skin issues here. We have also tried the body creme, massage/intimacy oil (their #1 highest selling skin care formula on Amazon), and foot lotion and have enjoyed each of these products. I can’t wait to try the new soap nuts shampoo bar!

NaturOli is offering two wonderful skin care gift baskets to giveaway today in light of our celebration! Each gift basket will include six trial size skin care products of your choice and one soap nuts soap bar. Let me just inform you as well that their trial sizes are not the average trial size. They are a full 1 ounce of product. They contain a significant amount to sample and experiment with. My samples lasted forever! So if you just want to try out their products, this is an awesome way to go! You will not be disappointed!

BE SURE TO CLICK ON THE TITLE TO GO DIRECTLY TO PASSIONATE HOMEMAKING TO ENTER THE CONTEST!!

Anniversary Celebration: Bugaloo Kids giveaway!


Anniversary Celebration: Bugaloo Kids giveaway!

Do you want some cute adorable little leather shoes for your little one? You don’t have to go far to find Bugaloo Kids designs to be very affordable and adorable in the same place! We love these little shoes for our kids, and they are long lasting and fit forever! And at only $15 dollar a pair you are looking at a very reasonable price. Bugaloo Kids is a small business started by my sweet cousin, Heidi Wells, who designs all the shoes with her creative juices. She also lives right here in Vancouver, WA…so I see her work all the time! Heidi also has a heart for the world and donates 5% of her profits to help end child slavery.

Today, in light of our anniversary celebration we are giving away one pair of Bugaloo Kids shoes to a special winner!

BE SURE TO CLICK ON THE TITLE TO GO DIRECTLY TO PASSIONATE HOMEMAKING TO ENTER THE CONTEST!!

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Homemade Natural Diaper Cream & Lotion


Coconut oil and raw shea butter are the perfect combination for a safe, natural and simple diaper cream or hand lotion. Shea butter is wonderful for its natural healing and moisturizing properties. It is rich in Vitamins A, E, and F, which help to soothe, hydrate, and balance the skin. Make sure to select raw shea butter, because many companies use bleaches, deodorizers, or chemicals to alter the scent and appearance of shea butter. These processings deplete the product of its healing and medicinal properties, and also destroy the vitamins and minerals present. You will know if it is raw by its distinguished nutty smell. Coconut oil is also very nourishing and moisturizing to the skin and has great anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.

This is definitely a powerhouse for defeating yeast infections as well. We love it now! I used to have to switch my babies over to disposables when a rash hit, but with this salve, it heals wonderfully even when wearing cloth diapers. I recommend using a thick doubler/liner when applying this salve if you use cloth diapers to protect their warranty. My dipes are out of warranty, so we use it directly on their bum with the diaper and it has not caused any repealing issues. It washes out beautifully. This recipes works for a awesome natural lotion as well, helping to sooth dry and cracked skin. You may want to add some lavender (or other) essential oil for fragrance for use as hand lotion because shea butter gives it a nutty smell and may not be preferred if you like a real fragrant lotion.




How to make your own?


1/8 cup coconut oil (extra virgin is preferred)
1/4 cup raw shea butter (or the entirety of a 4 oz container)
3-4 Tablespoons talc-free cornstarch or arrowroot power (optional, to thicken) -Learn more about avoiding talc here.

Combine coconut oil and shea butter in a small bowl with a hand mixer or stick blender. You may have to soften the shea butter just slightly over very low heat in order to incorporate them well together, but it should combine well with a mixer. Add cornstarch or arrowroot a tablespoon at a time until you achieve the desired thickness. It will look similar to a whipped icing.That’s it! Transfer to a small covered container and place at your changing station. Keep a small portion in the diaper bag as well. Apply liberally with each diaper change as a preventative and rash salve. There are many more complicated homemade varieties out there, but this simple recipe has done the trick for us! Makes about 1 cup.

We buy our extra virgin coconut oil and raw shea butter from Mountain Rose Herbs. You can use refined coconut oil on the skin as it is a cheaper variety. Unrefined is preferred for eating.

BE SURE TO CLICK ON THE TITLE TO GO DIRECTLY TO PASSIONATE HOMEMAKING! I LOVE THIS BLOG AND I LOVE WHAT SHE HAS TO SHARE!! YOU'LL LOVE IT TOO!! CHECK IT OUT TODAY!

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Calendula officinalis (Pot Marigold or Poet)


Calendula officinalis (Pot Marigold or Poet’s Marigold)

Posted using ShareThis

No one should live with out Calendula, especially if you have children! It's an amazing moisturizer and it's amazing for cute little baby tushies!! I was psyched to see how easy it is to make your own so come on~hop to it!! :) I do realize that unless you live on the west coast, you won't be making this until next year, but hey~thinking ahead here, go with it!! :)



CLICK ON THE TITLE TO GO DIRECTLY TO 5 ORANGE POTATOES FOR MORE!!

Free Shipping With NaturOli!!



TWO Free Shipping Offers plus
Extra Bonus Points for You & Yours

ONE: This week (ending Friday the 18th at midnight) you will get free shipping on orders over $29.

TWO: For the remainder of the month you will get free shipping on orders over $49.

PLUS: For the rest of the month, you will also receive your regular bonus points - plus an extra point for every dollar a new customer referred by you spends in our store. If they register (no strings attached and totally private) they will start receiving their own points, too. Please ask them to enter your name (as we have it in our records) in the comments section upon checkout.

(Free shipping is standard ground shipping - normally only on orders over $100. If you choose another option you will be given credit for standard shipping.) This includes items on sale, too.
Don't worry that the storefront states "over $100" - you'll see it adjusted for you. :-)

Shop Now!

BE SURE TO VISIT PASSIONATE HOMEMAKING! I LOVE THIS BLOG AND I LOVE WHAT SHE HAS TO SHARE!! YOU'LL LOVE IT TOO!! CHECK IT OUT TODAY!

Monday, September 14, 2009

Valentine Pocket from an Old Sweater





Valentine Pocket from an Old Sweater

CLICK ON THE TITLE TO GO DIRECTLY TO 5 ORANGE POTATOES FOR DIRECTIONS ON HOW TO MAKE THESE CUTE LITTLE VALENTINES POCKETS!!

About Our Family

My photo
Missouri, United States
Clinton and I live in Missouri. Clinton works for CED, Inc. It is an electrical distributing company. He works in Inside Sales right now and is training for Outside Sales. I am an Independent Marketing Consultant for Melaleuca. I work from home and I really love what I do. Cora is 3 years old and she is so excited about starting Preschool in the fall. She loves everything Princess and her favorite color is Pink! Miles is 2 and he loves CARS the movie and is really into Thomas the Train as well. He is a ball of Fire and keeps us on our toes! And in keeping with stereotypes, loves the color Blue. Well, Wyatt Evan Fisher is here now!! He arrived at 5:03pm on June 22, 2008!! We are so very blessed and so very excited! He's 7 pounds and 5 ounces, 20 inches long! Healthy and so very handsome! We are so blessed and so proud of our new baby boy! Precious blessing from God!

Blog Archive

Fisher Farm Family Cookout!

Fisher Farm Family Cookout!
Cora was swinging with her cousins.



Fun Fall Pictures!

We had a blast taking the kids pictures! It was a gorgeous fall day and the kids were in great moods! We really loved Miles "cheese" face! We tried to get him to say something else so he'd actually have a smile instead of the "cheese" lips! :)

I have included some of Hannah, Major and Cannon. They are great friends of Cora, Miles and Wyatt. We have had a great time being neighbors and friends! We have been really enjoying doing things together.



Cheese Lips!


Again with the lips! :)



The Ulitmate Mud Puddle Adventure

Miles LOVES Puddles! We have had a lot of rain lately and so the dead end fills up quickly with the run off. This is such a great joy for Miles. He loves water and jumping into puddles and making quite a mess of things! Take in mind that it's October and quite chilly out~this means nothing to Miles~he feels no cold. Now, since daddy took the pictures, please excuse the fuzzy ones! :)






Painting the Pirate Ship!

Cora and Miles love painting! They had a great time painting and I had a wonderful time watching them, taking pictures, laughing, being amazed at how quickly they are growing up, in awe of their creativeness. I am so blessed to be their mom. What a precious gift God has given me. I am so thankful!





Puddin'

I decided that it would be fun to let the kids play with their snack as a sensory activity! So, we had chocolate pudding to "paint" and granola and dried fruit to "decorate the painting" and their bodies as the "canvas"! It was a hit!

Miles wasn't sure at first~he usually revels in messes, but this time Mom was "letting" him and he just didn't know what to think about that! It didn't take him long to get into it though.

Cora had a great time and she dug in right away! When Dad came home from work, she invited him to join the fun as well! He took off his shirt and soon he was the canvas that the kids were painting! Cora wanted to make sure that his entire back was covered!

Wyatt remained an outsider to the event~which I am sure he appreciated! He really enjoys watching his brother and sister play. He smiled and laughed and cooed a lot! It was a really enjoyable time for us all! If you haven't had fun with pudding, I suggest you try!

Cora and her "Pudding Art Creation"

Cora and her "Pudding Art Creation"
We have chocolate pudding, granola, and dried fruit!

Puddin' face!

Puddin' face!

Miles was just getting started!

Miles was just getting started!

Now we are getting the hang of it!

Now we are getting the hang of it!

Cora loved the feel of the "squishy" pudding in her fingers!

Cora loved the feel of the "squishy" pudding in her fingers!

Daddy jumping in the fun!

Daddy jumping in the fun!

HMMMM......

HMMMM......

Almost got it all......

Almost got it all......

The Finished Paintings!

The Finished Paintings!

Now with silly faces!

Now with silly faces!

Cora's First Day of School!

Cora's First Day of School!

It was chilly morning.

At School

At School
In front on her school.

Her Cubby

Mrs. Creason~Cora's Teacher

Mrs. Creason~Cora's Teacher

Oh bath time!

Oh bath time!

May I Help You?

May I Help You?

Here's lookin' at you kid!

Here's lookin' at you kid!

Wondering if we could just go on our walk already!

Please???

Please???

Wyatt always falls asleep in his backpack on our walks!

Playing in the sprinkler!

Playing in the sprinkler!

Hannah, Grant, and Cora~Umbrellas to "save them" from getting wet....didn't work out so well!

Hannah, Grant, and Cora~Umbrellas to "save them" from getting wet....didn't work out so well!
Hannah and Grant are our neighbors. Hannah lives next door and Grant lives caddy corner across the street.

Hannah's brother Major.

Hannah's brother Major.
Major and Miles are good friends~they love to play together!

Fort Umbrella~all the kids are inside.

Fort Umbrella~all the kids are inside.

Miles coming to join the Umbrella Crew.

Miles coming to join the Umbrella Crew.

Cora Loves Playing With Finn!

Cora Loves Playing With Finn!

Clinton Jumping Over Cora!

Clinton Jumping Over Cora!

We take Jason's Dog Disel, for a walk everyday! Cora likes to hold the leash by herself.

We take Jason's Dog Disel, for a walk everyday! Cora likes to hold the leash by herself.

Cora LOVES to ride her bike! Everytime we are outside, she's on her bike!

Cora LOVES to ride her bike! Everytime we are outside, she's on her bike!

Miles Messes

Miles loves to make messes! This montage of cereal was waiting for me one morning and boy was I happy about it..... This isn't the first (or the last ~ I'm sure) time this has happened. If you don't get him food the moment you hear him wake up~BEWARE! Oh the joys of parenthood!

Miles Helping Himself to Breakfast.....

Miles Helping Himself to Breakfast.....

Cora and Aunty A making Cheese Cake!

Cora and Aunty A making Cheese Cake!

BIG SISTER

BIG SISTER

Cora is always asking to hold Wyatt

Cora is always asking to hold Wyatt

How Sweet

How Sweet

Into the face paint from halloween.....

Into the face paint from halloween.....

Miles thought Wyatt needed some too!

Miles thought Wyatt needed some too!

Bath Time

Bath Time

4th of July

4th of July

Four Wheelin' Anyone?

Miles loves Uncle Paul's four wheeler! He just loves to run to the shed, get the helmet on (which used to terrify him) and climb on! If he can talk daddy into it (which isn't a hard thing), he gets to ride all over the farm!


Clinton Painting Cora's Nails

Clinton Painting Cora's Nails

Angela and Jeremy Reynolds

Angela and Jeremy Reynolds
This is my best friend and her husband.

Wyatt's first week!

We had so much fun spending Wyatt's First Week of life with Nani and Pop Pop! We drove down right after we were released from the hospital and Wyatt proved to be a great little traveler! He never made a peep! Cora and Miles were great helpers and loved having their baby brother in between them. Every time we got out of the car, Cora would say,"Mom! Don't forget our baby!" It was really cute. It was a lot of fun for the cousins to get a chance to spend time together too. It was a great week!

Our First Family Pic!

Our First Family Pic!

Playing Time

Playing Time
In Nani and Pop Pop's basement playing!

Balloon Swords!

Balloon Swords!
Safe Play?

Ping Pong anyone?

Ping Pong anyone?
Miles couldn't wait for his turn to play ping pong

Nani and Cora

Nani and Cora
They had matching hats! It was so much fun!

Proud Grandparents!

Proud Grandparents!

All the Kids with Nani and Pop Pop!

All the Kids with Nani and Pop Pop!

Diaper Head!

Diaper Head!
He decided that it would be fun to put his swim diaper on his head! He made the return trip home a funny affair!

Cora wanted to do diaper head too!

Cora wanted to do diaper head too!

The Arrival of Wyatt!

We were so very excited for the arrival of Wyatt! He arrived two weeks early, much to everyone's surprise! On June 22, 2008, at 6:30am, I noticed that it was going to be a very special day! I woke Clinton up and we began the "run around". We had to get everything cleaned and packed and ready for the next week. We arrived at the hospital and everything took off from there! He arrived at 5:03pm and was 7 pounds 5 ounces , 20 inches long. Just perfect! He was our smallest baby, but the size of a regular full term baby! He just seemed so tiny to us! And to think that most people have babies his size! We couldn't be more thrilled with our new little man! He is so precious to us! He is very content and sleeps very well! You can't ask for more than that!

Baby Wyatt is coming!

Baby Wyatt is coming!
I wanted a picture before Wyatt made his grand entrance!

Our Precious Little Man!

Our Precious Little Man!
Just a few minutes after he was born!

Mom and Baby!

Mom and Baby!
I couldn't be more thrilled with him!

Dad and his Son

Dad and his Son
He is so proud of his boy!

Big Sis and Wyatt!

Big Sis and Wyatt!
She sang "Mary had a little lamb" to him! It was so cute!

Wyatt Evan Fisher!

Wyatt Evan Fisher!
Our Precious Baby Boy! Loves to look around!

Nani and Pop Pop!

Nani and Pop Pop!
Happy Family!

Pop Pop and Wyatt!

Pop Pop and Wyatt!
Pop Pop was able to cut the cord! How cool!

Wyatt and Nani!

Wyatt and Nani!
We loved having Nani there for the Birth!

Uncle Jason!

Uncle Jason!
It was great to have Uncle Jason come and visit!

Summer 2008!

We are having a lot of fun this summer right in our own back yard! We got the kids a little pool that they love and a swing that I (Amy) love so that we could enjoy being outside together as a family! God has blessed us with great children, great weather, and so much love for each other. I am always thankful for how well the kids get along. I am looking forward to seeing how Wyatt will fit with our little family.

Cora is growing up so fast and she is "teaching" Miles new things all the time! Miles grows so fast "learning" from his big sister and he loves to copy her. He follows her and repeats what she says and does what she does. It is really sweet to see them playing together and learning from each other.

Umbrella Time

Umbrella Time
Cora loves her little umbrella!

Fun in the Summer Sun!

Fun in the Summer Sun!
They love their little pool!

Pool Time!

Pool Time!
They love Splashing in the Pool!!

Eatting Pluots!

Eatting Pluots!
Snack time in the pool! Can't get any better than that!

We love eachother!

We love eachother!
They are best friends!

Cora and Miles Club House!

Cora and Miles Club House!
They love this little house!

Painting!

Painting!
The kids discovered that if you get chalk wet, it makes "paint"!

Coloring!

Coloring!
Cora loves to color.

My yellow picture!

My yellow picture!
Cora wanted to make sure that I took a picture of her with her picture!

My Favorite Cuties!

My Favorite Cuties!
They are such posers!

My Studly Man!

My Studly Man!
Miles is such a big boy!

Precious Princess!

Precious Princess!
Cora is such a Princess!