Merry Merry Are We

We have a very busy week ahead of us but thankfully I am almost complete with orders for blankets. I am really looking forward to Brian being off work between Christmas and New Years and spending time with the kids.

This past weekend we had our Legler Christmas in Madison as Brian's brother Barry was in town. The kids were hilarious opening presents (Bailey tried to steal everything of Jack's) and they had a great time seeing their uncles. We opened gifts and celebrated together visiting a family member in the hospital and it was such a memorable Christmas. It truly is not about where you are, it's the company that you keep that make all the moments special. This Saturday we spend time with my family and are attempting to go to the kids Christmas Mass at 6PM and Sunday we are going to hang out as a family of four.

We decided that Christmas is going to be about creating new traditions for our own family and I am excited to see Jack & Bailey on Christmas morning (and enjoy the quiet while he plays with all his toys following). No rushing around, no plans...just us.

Here are some fun pictures of the weekend:

Under Nana & Papa's tree





 

 

Perfection Doesnt Make Memories

I saw this quote from a recent post on fb and it has been the theme of our week. It has taught me that although there is love in the details, it doesnt always have to go as planned. After all, the times people remember is when it all came together despite the odds. This weekend will be one of those times.

It has been a trying few days with sick kids, plenty to do and loved ones in our thoughts & prayers. I am really looking forward to leaving town and spending Sat, Sun & Mon with the Legler family for our Christmas celebrations. The kids ans I have been busy making cookies for the weekend and it was my first attempt at my mother-in-law's famous M&M cookies. After a failed attempt yesterday, Jack and I managed to successfully redeem ourselves this morning. Here are some baking pictures from our two attempts.



first attempt & failed





2nd attempt & success!

 

Holiday joy and chaos

The craziness is coming to a hault. Perhaps it is because I am done Christmas shopping and completed all holiday blanket orders, closing up shoppe until February. I am beginning to destress and it feels amazing to refocus on family.

We have been quite busy with holiday stuff over the past few weeks. Jack is old enough to understand traditions so it is exciting to share many new things with him and of course he loves his little sidekick Bailey to be right by his side. Professional pictures, Christmas cards, St Nick, Santa and making cookies are some of the many fun activities we have been busy with. Once Jack gets up from his nap today we are attempting making the famous Nana Nancy Cookies for Legler Christmas this weekend. If it doesnt turn out, it's Jack's fault. lol

Following Christmas, we are going to get some much needed R&R up north for five days before ringing in the New Year. 2012 is going to be grand and we need all the rest we can get.

Here's a summary of our holiday fun in pictures.

2 and done

Today is such a significant day to our family and to me especially. As I type this, Brian is undergoing surgery for a vasectomy as we decided together that our family is complete.

It's cliche to say that your love continues to grow for your significant other but it is true. A good partnership evolves and strengthens over time and I have so much respect for Brian for doing this as I am unable to due to health risks.

We are both excited about all the memories we are going to create with our blessed family of four and although we adore the baby stage Bailey is in, we are excited for all to come.

Our family bucket list:
Disney trips
RV trip with family & friends
Family double bike rides
Canada fishing for Jack, Brian and Randy
American Girl Store in Chicago
Cedar Pointe Rollercoaster weekend
Camping
San Diego Zoo
& many more

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

I had my tree up before guests arrived on Thanksgiving. We usually do not have many guests in our house around the holidays so I wanted to express my holiday cheer - Christmas upstairs, Harvest down. Now I can just sit back, relax and coast through December without stressing to get up decorations.

Today it is cold. I was going to wait until December to update my blog for the upcoming holiday but since I have the house decorated, been singing carols and sending cards, I decided to post. Here's a few fun pictures of the kids gearing up for Christmas sitting in front of our tree. I will post more holiday pictures - professional, Santa and family fun throughout December.

Many blessings this Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving was a great one. I feel very blessed to have great people in my life to share the holiday with. I wanted to create a few fun traditions for the holiday so Jack could have fun and understand, so we created/purchased some pilgrim and indian hats. We hosted the Turkey holiday at our home and had some family over, all wearing the hats!

I was knocked down with the flu (so was my dad and my stepmom) so guests were dropping like flies. We managed to fit 12 adults and two kids at one table in our basement and we had a blast making memories and being entertained by Jack and Bailey.

Now it's time to decorate the house with boughs of jolly and sing holiday tunes for the next six weeks!

Goodbye fall. Hello Christmas.

The Gift of Life

November is the time to be thankful. Throughout the month I have been reflecting on all that I am thankful and blessed for in this life. Today I am grateful for the company that I keep. There is a certain reason why people are in my life, some have come and gone but for the most part the ones that came back around have made a significant impact in my soul. They are here to stay and I am eternally blessed for all of them.

This morning I was talking to a dear friend who has been struggling with pregnancy. Her and her husband have an appointment soon to review further options and it got me thinking about the gift of life. I believe God has a plan for everyone but at certain times you tilt your head wondering...these two people are destined to be parents, so why the struggle? It all comes down to faith...

I researched struggle a little bit and found this quote and it just made sense.  Once all struggle is grasped, miracles are possible. ~ Mao Tse-Tung quotes 

The gift of life is a miracle. If you could, would you give it? Think about it. Would you as a woman become a surrogate to someone so they can in turn experience this gift of pure love. To have a child that is theirs, to raise a child and know they will give it endless love? 

I would become a surrogate to certain people. To my friend? In. A. Heartbeat. This couple is supposed to be parents. She is a dear friend. I know her family as they are almost my own. They are loving. They deserve to be blessed to create love out of love and if I can pay it forward by giving that gift, I would should they decide to.

A wife's love letter to her husband

I've known you forever, in my heart. You were every man I hoped to be with and nothing like any guy I ever dated. You are the best of my father; humorous and playful. You are a little girl's prince and every Ken doll I played with. I dreamed of being a wife, mother and friend to a best friend and my wish came true through you.

I never thought I was deserving, days I still don't believe I am but then you constantly remind me. You cherish our time together. You honor me, support me, raise me up and celebrate with me. You make me want to be a better person. I owe you for all the hope you have instilled in me. For being my rock and balancing each other out on days when they were much needed.

You are my best friend. My soul mate. My husband. Half of me. You are the greatest father to our children and I fall deeper in love with you more each day when I see you with them. The light in their eyes fill when you are near and that is love. I am a witness to pure joy & love. The two lives we've created together were made out of pure love. We will raise them with pure love. And, one day we will smile at each other knowingly as they each find their own soul mate. Thank you my love for the brilliant life we've created together. Thank you for making all my dreams come true.

forever endeavors.

xxoo Kelley

Where does the time go?

I feel like time is just flying by with these kids. Bailey is 6 1/2 months and already eating people foods, drinking from a sippy cup and sitting and playing in her room solo. We recenty removed her rocker and other unused items from her room and started turning it into a play area.

Bailey just cracks us up. She is really starting to emerge into her personality and realize she has a voice. She has this demeanor about her that she gets from Brian, very laid back, always smiling and just goes with the flow. But when she wants something, she is her mother's daughter! She gives this look like, you better take care of me NOW or else. lol

Before long, she will be crawling...walking and talking (back).

Forget About It

I haven't fully adjusted to daylight savings time; yea...that's my reasoning. I had one lazy Sunday and since I have been off my mommy game. Usually I am able to juggle it all but all I want to do is to simply forget about this morning. I forgot everything necessary when I left the house to take Jack to school.

I forgot to drink coffee. I forgot I was on empty. I forgot Bailey had a doctor visit. I forgot diapers and wipes. I forgot to give her Tylenol. I forgot about my monthly visitor and had a warm welcome in the doctor's office. I forgot backup. I stole a newborn diaper for myself - classy. I forgot about timing things out. Bailey fell asleep in the car as it was time to pick up Jack. It's was pouring...Drove home only to avoid an accident and watched two cars collide in the middle of an intersection. I was their only witness. Forget sticking around, I have two kids in the car and it's near nap time. I veered and carried on my journey forgetting to look in the rear view.

I am home and back in my pijamas. It is nap time and the house is quiet. I am not leaving again until tomorow except to get my mail.

Someone was sending me yellow lights all over the place to simply SLOW DOWN. This post is your wake up call to ease into the week. I give you permission.

A Minute of Thanks

Oprah's status update on FB just asked me: If you had 1 minute to thank someone who has had a big impact on your life, what would you say?

I would say this to my old boss at GMR Marketing. Thank you for laying me off in April 2009. (2 weeks after returning from my maternity leave) It changed my life. It changed my perspective on myself, my family and it brought out true colors of those I thought were my support system. It allowed me to find my passion, get creative and start my business. Most of all, it allowed me time with my family.

At first it was a hardship to depend on one income, pay a mortgage, bills and support our family. It was a very stressful time in our lives. I was fighting post partum depression, I lost who I was and was learning who I should be as a mom and wife. I was struggling with a new business, hoping it would not fail. I was lonely at home. I felt zero self worth. I missed my outlet at work.

Finally, after realizing this blessing in disguise, I got over it. I turned apples into apple juice and now run a fun successful business out of my home and hang out with my kids. I used my therapy of my new sewing hobby to make money. I got lucky. It doesnt happen to everyone, I just stuck with it and have my husband and in-laws to thank. Either way, it was my pet project - something to keep me busy and keep my mind sane. Sewing saved me. Thank you for laying me off Tony. I am happy.

Celebrating a Half Birthday!

Yesterday Bailey turned 6 months old, where does the time go? The half birthday -to me- is a very important milestone especially when they are a baby. Things tend to get easier, she is mobile and we have adapted to her cries/signs.

Bailey is a very happy and content little girl. She is always smiling. I have never seen a child light up so much when we enter a room. She is really starting to show her personality and project her voice. Lately, all she wants to do is zoom around and play in her walker - which her brother always "helps" her with.  She continues to strengthen her back muscles by being nosy and sitting up. She is playing with a few floor toys and manages to keep her brother entertained until he gets too aggressive and excited around her.

Jack is approaching his third birthday - in February. I understand it is "next year" but that is three months away. Just think how fast Aug, Sept and October went by and soon I will have a 3 year old.  Yes, I already began planning his party - TRACTORS - and am trying to get a lot done before the holidays so January I can just "coast" and soon enough enjoy the arrival of Mr. Murphy. My best friend Heidi and her husband Mike are expecting their first!!!

Another milestone approaching...Brian is turning 30! He doesnt want a big celebration, just to spend time with family. Thats exactly what he is getting, a day with the kids while I attend Heidi's baby shower! lol

We have a dinner planned with his parents and brother at Quaker Steak & Lube and I am getting some strawberry shortcake cupakes (with cupcake toppers of course). Turning thirty to us doesnt seem like a deal. I dont know why people do not embrace this milestone. I personally think that 25 was a hard one - i started forgetting my age after that birthday. Now, I will be thirty in June and am so grateful for all I accomplished, as is Brian. Bring on 40! That doesnt have as good of ring to it.

Embracing November

My favorite of all holidays is approaching, Thanksgiving. Today I stormed through Target seeking Thanksgiving decorations, cutlery and crafts to use at our home as we are hosting the turkey dinner with family this year. I was amazed how quickly everyone moved passed the November holiday and onto Christmas. There was one endcap with paperware for Thanksgiving. I refuse to overlook the day of Thanks and Gratitude. Throughout the month I am going to post and pay tribute.

It's a tough job hosting Turkey Dinner but with a new kitchen, why not? The funny thing about turkey at our house this year is that I outsourced all there is to cook. Am I being lazy? Smart? Nope, just nervous to take the plumge and cook something that everyone relies on to be good. Growing up my mom always tried new ways to cook a turkey and put too much pressure on herself. This year I don't need the pressure, just want to enjoy the amazing company that I keep.

My focus this year is creating traditions for my family. Now that Jack is old enough, he can partake in many activities...and I definitely came up with some creative things to keep that boy entertained. I have a turkey hat for Bailey, pilgrim hats, Indian feathers, a paper tablecloth in need of some hand-print turkeys and much more. Family gatherings should always be fun, low expectations and a chance to make a lot of memories. Stay tuned for a lot of "in the works" pictures of our crafty creations for Turkey time.
G O B B L E   G O B B L E  G O B B L E  G O B B L E  G O B B L E  G O B B L E  G O B B L E

Spooktacular Weekend

This Halloween weekend was such a treat seeing Jack excited about the concept of trick or treating. We we had fun sharing the event with some friends and their kids in their neighborhood and after exhausting all our outdoor energy the kids handed out candy for the emainder of the night. Good times had by all and we look forward to more memories with these friends.

Jack went as a pirate; Captain Jack Sparrow and Bailey was all snuggled in a Penguin suit. The weekend prior we ventured to Boo at the Zoo and he got to meet the "Really Tall BIG" (as Jack says) Captain Jack there. We adored seeing him in his costume and he got a lot of compliments at the zoo for his cool costume, he couldn't stop smiling when people somehow knew to call him Jack.

The Hales Corners trick or treat was on Sunday and the weather was gross. It was windy, rainy and cold but we had a few visitors at our door and a lot of leftover candy - win/win. We had Brian's parents and my dad and step-mom over for pizza and let Jack hand out candy to all the kids. He wore his pirate costume with the wig and ARRRR'd at people as they approached the door. He was the perfect entertainment!

Yesterday was Halloween and Jack wore his Spiderman pijamas all day. We had a Halloween playdate at his friend Will's house and he scared everyone with his Spidey mask. We had punch, candy, searched for pumpkins/decorated hem with stickers and Jack chased his friends for a few hours. A happy chaos moment seeing him with his friends and spending time with the moms is always a plus.

Getting this off my chest

Many of my posts spew positivity. These posts are my revised draft of my rough. My rough draft of my blogs are simply for me to get all my random thoughts out and wash my hands of them. This post however, will help me vent and get things off my chest, literally.

Have you ever had anxiety? It's my way of being stressed. My muscles tense up and I get this full feeling in my chest as if I can't breathe. I feel anxious, probably because I have a lot of orders to do and updates for my client and I am trying to get them all completed before the busy Halloween weekend.

I couldnt get any sewing done for my orders. I spent the afternoon attempting to get my little Bailey down for a much needed nap. My little missfit was overtired and fighting the z's. Running upstairs to check on Jack and entertain him, then back down to calm Bailey, I was exhausted. After 90 minutes of rocking, swaying, singing, crying it out and feeding, she finally gave in - all for a thirty minute nap. Dinner and a Legler family dance party with me, Brian, Jack and Bailey put a great cap to the kiddo evening. Bath and bed went smooth and it was time to finally create...then my anxiety hit.

I have been focusing a lot of my energy thinking about certain people and sometimes feel as if their priorities are a little jolted. It comes down to me not understanding their actions and always feel as if there is something that I did wrong to create this behavior. I don't know if I will ever understand them, but I know I cannot change them. Either way, I am done ranting and am going to go to my gym and go swimming - my new stress reliever.

They Complete Us

I apologize for getting everyone so excited right along with us after writing about considering for a third child. I love how you were all so supportive and appreciate the blessings. In two days, things have changed and Brian and I went with our gut to continue with the vasectomy appointment in December.

I tend to not sleep on decisions and just go with it. That's why I immediately wrote my blog talking about my excitement about growing our family. Truth is, Brian is the opposite and this is why we work so well together and balance one another out. He reads reviews, he gathers insight and takes time to make decisions. This was certainly a major life changing decision and needed to sleep on it.

We both woke up apprehensive and a lot to discuss. We shared our fears, our concerns, our pros and of course embraced the want to have another. What it came down to was how content and happy were were with our lives. We just recently modeled our kitchen and need to pay it all off and I have a growing at home business along with freelance clients. Time and money would be limited if we added another. I dont need to justify anything to myself or family, we will always have their support.

I think just knowing that the option was on the table was extremely exciting for us, because we never really discussed it with an open mind. Then knowing that it was a possibility really made us think. Brian always said to me, "I love us" and now he has said "They complete us.". It made sense. We have two happy and healthy kids and are happy in our home life and have less stress in our marriage now that Bailey is approaching the six month mark. Life is good.

Party of Five?

This week Brian and I had a consultation with a urologist about scheduling a vasectomy. We decided a few months back that our family was now complete, having one of each gender so we scheduled the appointment and booked the surgery given that we already maxed out our insurace with having Bailey. It made financial sense to do it now.

Since Wednesday, something changed in both of us. We were no longer 100% sure that we were done growing our family. Sure it was a hectic home of always on the go, toys flying everywhere, transtrums flaring and non-stop bottle washing but that's our life. This life of babies is only temporary and it sure flies by and they grow up fast and the after baby/diaper life "appears" to be easier or at least you get into a groove. Well, after careful thought and consideration, we have decided to try for another!

I am elated that we actually agreed on this. There was always a part of me that wanted three kids but we decided on two and done. I remember sitting downstairs crying hysterically while I packed Jack's baby clothes into boxes to donate/sell/toss. I cried when Bailey's first word was Dada (yes, I am shallow) thinking that no baby of mine would say Mama first. I balled after having her, knowing it would be the last time a doctor put a baby into my arms for the first time. I weeped at all the firsts and I will most likely weep again at the next firsts. It's a happy/sad thing to know something is complete.

Part of me knew we should have a third because I believe in all signs. I believe that #3 is missing from our lives. Last year around this time my mother-in-law and I saw a psychic who told me my sole purpose in life was to nurture. I would have three children and the dominant gender would be male. Brian has two brothers and I have one, 2/3 are Godfathers of our kids and I always wanted my brother to be a Godfather; now hopefully he can be with his significant other Kim. Growing up I yearned for three kids, boy/girl/boy or girl/boy/girl. All of them would have a place - oldest, only gender, youngest.  Time will tell if we are destined for a third and if it is in our cards...if we do get pregnant, my guess is a boy (considering I got rid of all the blue clothes!)

I find that each and every year that passes our lives get better and better. If we are lucky enough to have another, that would really make our 30th year of life the best and our family complete.
_________________________________________________________________________________

The next day...
So we slept on it. And thought about it. We were both extremely excited to even have the option on the table. Brian never gave the idea a thought, and had always envisioned having two kids and since we got lucky with a boy and girl he didnt want more. Now that he was open to it we were both very excited.

So the next day after little sleep, we sat down and had an in depth conversation. Our gut is telling us both not to have a third. Time will tell if we change our minds again.

Dark Times Lead to Light

I know I have been posting quite a bit lately, but I have had a lot on my mind. Plus that's what happens when I go without writing for almost two months. Being creative is my form of therapy whether it is writing, sewing, scrapbooking, designing websites or just finger painting with the kids. It allows me to express how I feel without judgement.

Personally, I dont think about my audience when I write. It's more of a journal for me and a way to reflect on hard times and count my blessings, not my problems. My friend commented about how uplifting and motivating my blog is to her and I was so happy to hear that since a lot of you don't view my "first draft" versions of my posts...some get pretty dark.

When I am down I write. I never publish it because it is very personal to me and the second draft usually comes out to be a reflection of all things great that are happening in my life; my constant reminder of how blessed I truly am. Perhaps I should start writing about the trials and struggles...perhaps someone besides me could benefit. Honestly, I dont write about it because I choose to not dwell on that dark place. I was in an extremely dark place once - a place out of my control and I found help.

After Jack's first birthday I was diagnosed with post-partum depression, talked to a therapist and went on medication.  I noticed signs earlier in September of 2009 but just thought it was hormones and that it coincided with motherhood. After all, I was new at this gig and tried to tough it out. I was anxious, irritable and emotional all the time. I felt like PMS was taking over 24/7 and that I just wasnt enjoying all the mini milestones as I should have been. Granted I had a lot of fun with Jack in his first year but always felt a bit off and as if I needed to accomplish more and pull my weight since I was staying at home with him. I remember our first family photo shoot and it pains me to look at the picture. I look like I didnt take care of myself, lost my glow and I see a sadness in my eyes. I was at my heaviest and I am sure that weighed on me as well. After seeing myself at my lowest, I vowed to never return to that place ever again.



Mommy and Bailey Lou



For the second time around, Brian and I decided to not breastfeed Bailey and to go directly on my medication once she was born to rid any potential anxiety or depression. I am happy to say that it was the best decision we made together as a couple, as parents and helped the transition from one child to two go more smoothly. Bailey is approaching six months and I am working at weening myself off my medication; an uphill battle but I am confident everything will be fine.

I dont want to sit here and preach about post-partum depression. If you are having similar feelings, I recommend simply talking to someone - anyone - about your feelings and anxiety or read the book Down Came the Rain by Booke Shields. You are the only person who is going to change your unhappiness and it's up to you to figure out how to do so.

Here's a link to my very first (and only other) blog speaking of my depression:

Finding my happy place...

Adjusting to two kids is going great, or at least I have a better outlook on everything in my life this time around. I've learned a lot of lessons about myself, parenting, marriage and people in general since becoming a mom. I have learned how to ask for help when you are feeling no-so-like-yourself. It was the best thing I could have ever done - to say "I need you" and to know that people are there for me fills up my heart.

Everyone needs help when you are a new mom, we are just way too proud to ask for it. I am lucky enough to have people in my life that take the initiative and push me by saying..."You were quiet today, is anything wrong?" or "I know you are going to be busy, do you need help with the kids?" or just those that show up every week/or are there at the drop of a hat to help me when I need them. You know who you are and I have so much gratitude for your support.

It's no easy task running your own business while being at home with kids but somehow I have managed to balance it all out. I prioritize and allow myself enough lead time where it doesnt become too overwhelming and my kids are great while I work. Jack entertains himself or I interact with him while I sew and Bailey is at the stage where she is just happy with a simple smile. I usually save all my workload during naptime or after they are in bed so I can just listen to music and have no distractions and create.

When I am creating, I am so happy and content. I have found something that fills me and doesnt seem like work. I honestly think this hobby turned business is my coping mechanism for the trying times of motherhood and I believe I stumbled upon it right when I needed it. Two years later and after many road blocks, baby Jack blankets is turning into a profit and I have my number one fan and business partner (and Mother in Law) Nancy to thank.

I've found my passion and have worked my butt off to get there. It was an uphill battle but since it was doing something that I love, it eventually worked in my favor. Without the help of my great friends and family (and Facebook) to help me spread the word, baby Jack blankets wouldnt be a success. I thank everyone for your support and encouragement -and purchases- along the way!

To many more years and more stores to come...

Where do I begin?

It's strange how I do not know where this year has gone. Bailey is approaching 6 months and since she arrived, we have been moving at the speed of light. I am already writing my Christmas letter and scheduling our family of four photo shoot for holiday cards (you know me, planning ahead).

I cannot complain about life besides that everything is going so fast. Business is good for both Brian and I - Brian's company Bucyrus was bought out by Catepillar and the remain busy with orders for machinery. Brian has been a huge help with Bailey in the morning but still manages to get a workout at the gym before going to work. My blanket business baby Jack blankets has moved to the next level by adding wholesale orders to our list and we are now being sold in stores (Milwaukee, Minnesota, New York and Missouri). So far, I have managed to keep up with the Etsy and Facebook orders along with everything else on my plate. I continue to do freelance web design projects for a broad range of clients, am working with a business partner of mine to brand our design business and was recently retained by RdR - a web design client for part-time work. I'm excited that consistent income is coming in and it's helping pay off our home updates. 

This month we completed our kitchen remodel and we are back to the norm of enjoying dinners as a family. It's such a calming atmosphere and is motivating me to get more organized throughout the rest of the house but time doesnt allow it. lol The kids are keeping us so busy and growing way too fast before our very eyes. We have been attempting to slow down and enjoy it all before we can no longer get these little moments back. I forgot about all the mini milestones the books do not embrace this time second around. Bailey's little giggle, her emerging personality and my favorite of all...the raspberries. She's been a real treat during dinner time when she non-stop spits her food at us (I gag at the smell of peas) and Jack just encourages her by laughing.

Bailey has said her first word (Dada - like Jack did) and is sitting up. She continues to be the best baby by far and it's been a good transition adding her to our daily routine. Jack is a great big brother and adores her. He's extrmely helpful and gentle with her. The best thing I could say about having two kids is seeing the endless love they have for each other. I really hope that it continues on through the years. It's a treat to watch them play/laugh/admire one another.

Jack is talking up a storm and singing every song you can imagine. Somehow he got some crazy dance moves and I assume it's from Brian (remember our wedding?). He is doing really well at Pre School twice a week and the teacher has nothing but good things to say about him. He's a very polite little boy and always seems to enjoy the friends, teacher, activities and trains there! As an early Christmas/3rd Bday present, we bought him a battery powered John Deere tractor and since then - if the weather cooperated - he has been outside riding it around the house for many hours. After one day he mastered the pedal, steering, reverse and clearing in between the cars and parking. We couldn't be more proud.

This summer flew by but we always had something planned on the calendar. We just recently went up north to the cabin with Randy and Nancy and Jackson caught his first fish - actually two! He reeled them in all by himself and shared the moment with his dad and Papa Randy. I cried knowing how important it was that they could teach him their passion and he enjoyed it so much. Perhaps next time they can take him on the boat!

Halloween is approaching next week and we are gearing up for some fun events as a family and sharing with friends. Jack is going to be Captain Jack Sparrow (Pirate) and Bailey is a Penguin. This Saturday we are taking them to Boo at the Zoo for the first time and next week is Trick or Treat. On to November already...

Many updates

This summer flew on by. Next week is Labor Day weekend already and that means summer comes to an end and school begins. With the changing of the season brings our family more change: a cozier kitchen, two crazy kids & cutting back.

I am sitting here in an empty room at a table. This room is our kitchen and I am admiring my husband as he paints away. Brian and I decided to completely remodel our kitchen with a new look - cabinets, countertops, appliances and floors - the whole enchilada. This week keeps us extremely busy with updates, installs and organizing. It was an impulse decision but we know we are living in our home for a long time so it will be worth it.

My inspiration for the new kitchen is family functional with a large calendar on our wall to showcase our schedules, kids artwork displayed on cork boards and a message that simplies all that our family is about: love. The first thing I put up was a decal on our wall that is the focal point in the kitchen. It's a daily reminder to me to be a great parent and try my best every day.

Since I have a mixture of taste, I wanted a farm/victorian/shabby chic/hamptons type feel and nothing better than looking to Martha Stewart for advice. Did you know she has her own cabinet line? We bought them and they are going to make me want to cook more...or so i tell myself. I am really excited to post pictures soon as they will be installed this week and countertops/floors next week. It's been a fast moving train since we found out they are to be delivered and Brian has been painting like mad. It's our final update to inside our home and it's going to look amazing...

How do we even find time to remodel and create this change? I don't know how we manage but when we start a project, we do it 100%. Check out the pictures of the progress from this weekend: