picture perfect

"And it will surprise you what the Lord has done!"  Amen.  *B

quick trip

Been hanging out in Prescott with the Nelsons.  Having a blast and a half.  Wishing we could stay, permanently...  back to work tomorrow [sigh].  Please ignore my butt, and focus on the amazing scenery.  *B

weathering the weather

Monsoons = Awesome!  Humidity = Gross!  I agree, it's a conundrum...  While I appreciate the recent "cooler" temps, and the temporary grey sky (and rain!) I do not enjoy the increase in humidity.  I find stickiness rather unappealing.  I'll take dry heat any day over wet heat, thank you very much.  I could never make it in Texas/Florida.  But I can handle California...  Hawaii?  I'd like to take my chances.  *B

look, no beadboard!

1. my kids are cute
2. my floors are gross
3. we love SpongeBob
4. we hate our floors
5. we love/hate paint

Brought to you by the fantabulously fabtastic iPhone.  Yes, it has changed our lives.  Yes, I realize how cliche that sounds.  And yes, oftentimes we wear pajamas all day, every day.  *B

sleep sweet suite

WARNING: I'm off in dreamland again.  So read to your own boredom...

Every room, nook and cranny in our little wannabe cottage has a visionary counterpart, dreamed up by me.  Sometimes the hub shares my vision, and sometimes he questions it.  He's a good man :)  Slowly, VERY slowly, these spaces have started to take shape and for the most part, I'm pleased with the results!  Homemaking is definitely something I enjoy.  It comes in third.  First being my family (duh) and the gospel - they're related, so they count as one!  Second is nutrition.  The holistic kind.  And third makes homey stuff.  Which unfortunately includes crafting ;)  So anyway, I have had a plan for just about everywhere BUT the master bedroom.  It's been driving me crazy that I couldn't even dream up something.  Is that weird?  That's ok, I accept the fact that I'm weirdly obsessed with playing house.  So anyway, about three days ago I had a revelation and I am so relieved!  It will be a lonnnnnnnnnng time until many, if not most, of my plans go into effect, but it feels good to have a game plan:

BEDDING:

-White (sure to be homemade) bedding!  Duvet cover kinda like this, but more like the one in the Lemonade Mermaid room (p. 72) schemed up by Layla of Lettered Cottage [drool much].  And then three large, white pillows done up like this in lieu of shams.  All topped off with this quilt when it's finished, coupled with a few non-white pillows.  You know, just to shake things up a bit.  Oh, and I may add some fancy schmancy crochet edging to the (white) bedskirt.

WINDOW:

-due to the layout of the room, our bed is in front of the balcony screen door.  If I were rich, I'd put in some classy glass French doors like these.  But for now, I plan on thrifting some old shutters and fixing 'em up nice.  And then distressing them.  And then hanging them in front of the patio door, kinda like a faux headboard... and then I'll hang our billowing curtains over and around them, if that makes sense.  Oh yes, they will billow.

WALLS:

-So I love beadboard.  I mean, I LOVE it!  Yup, it's going up in my bedroom.  But... I'm painting it green.  Not like Christmas green.  Or poop/puke green.  But a calm, fresh and dreamy green.  And then the rest of the walls will be white.  And on our largest wall, above our desk, I'm thinking of having a letter wall.  Featuring none other than the letter {B}, for me and my man :)

Ok, so you can see it???  I'm crazy.  I know.  Who cares?!  I do!!!  So there's my plan.  A beautiful all-white room with just a pop of color here and there to remind you that you're still alive.  I'm so excited!  I'll be sure to show pictures so you can see what I see.  Yeah, I'll get right on that.  See you in a year (or two)!  Hopefully our beadboard-ed half-wall will be done by then, too.  Along with the beadboard-ed kitchen.  And bathrooms.  And ceilings...  *B

chez moi: dare to dream

For as long as I can remember, I have dreamed about my dream home.  I don't know why it's so important to me, but it is.  So important that "my home" is even mentioned in my patriarchal blessing.  I'm embarrassed to say that while growing up I dreamed more about my future home than my future family...  I would fantasize about discovering an abandoned cottage and how I would merrily make it my own.  Much like this girl (a favorite book of mine).  Or how I might find shelter in a safe haven of my own making, much like Miss Honey in Matilda.  Not much has changed since then, other than my age ;)  The dreams are the same.

I've continued my searching and dreaming, only I find it in more grown-up venues, such as Thomas Kinkade's artwork.  Oh, to have my own cobblestone cottage, nestled behind numerous wildflowers, perched along a babbling brook!  Just recently I stumbled upon this planned village, comprised of these fabulous plans.  I want one, I want one, I WANT ONE!!!  I would like both "The Tuly Charming Collection" and "The Truly Tiny Collection" ASAP (aka. birthday/Christmas), just so I can further my obsession.  And Brad has loosely promised that we can build this when we retire.  Isn't he just so good to me to put up with my silly notions?  Yes, he most certainly is.

But in the meantime, here I sit in my "new" home.  It's far from anything I've dreamed of, but it is a blank canvas and it can become something I dream up!  I will now lovingly refer to this place as my cottage in training.  I may live in the desert, far from real trees, or flowing water... but it's my little refuge from the world.  It's where I, and my family (and friends), can hopefully find peace and comfort.  And in my book, that is a dream worth dreaming.  *B

"O thou afflicted, tossed with tempest, and not comforted! Behold, I will lay thy stones with fair colors, and lay thy foundations with sapphires.  And I will make thy windows of agates, and thy gates of carbuncles, and all thy borders of pleasant stones.  And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children.  In righteousness shalt thou be established; thou shalt be far from oppression for thou shalt not fear, and from terror for it shall not come near thee."

-- 3 Nephi 22:11-14

follow, follow me

Now that I've reentered the blogging world, [cough] after a 3 month hiatus [cough, cough], I have questions:  How does one follow a blog?  What program, if any, do you use?  How do you keep up with all those dang blogs out there?!  And most importantly, how do you keep from wasting all your time drooling over reading blogs like this???  Maybe it's just me, but it seems like home improvement and craft (and clothing) tutorials are all the rage right now.  So darn and dangerously appealing.

I feel like I'm back in high-school, desperately wanting to fit in with the cool kids.  But then I remember that I gave that up and went off to college early instead ;)  The other night Brad and I went out with one of the coolest couples EVER, and us girls chatted about the blogging world.  Where so-and-so lives, what they're doing, etc.  I love how friends can keep in touch and get to know each other better via blogging.  And I love how you can make friends through blogging...

But how do you keep it from controlling your life?  Sometimes I'll hop off the computer completely inspired and excited to tackle projects.  But then other times I limp away from it, down in the dumps because I could never be as cool as "her" OR my house will never look like "that"...  On one hand, all the blog surfing/stalking turns into hours of motivational wow sessions, while on the flip side it leaves you feeling dejected and worthless.  So how do you keep it from controlling your life?

At the end of the day, I blog for me.  For my friends.  And for my family.  Just like any internet outlet, I believe blogging can be a definite positive; a force for good.  But if we're not careful, it can become a negative influence in our lives.  When it comes down to it, I want to live in the moment and not compare my moments with others'.  I want to enjoy the making of MY memories.  And I want to enjoy sharing them.  It can be done right, right?  *B

questions of the rhetorical kind

• Have you ever found that all of a sudden your house reeks to high heaven, only to discover that something has died and gone to Hades in the fridge AND pantry?
• Do you find that some of your best ideas turn out to be your worst ideas?
• Or that some of your bad ideas turn out to be halfway decent?
• Do you have a collection of unfinished projects?
• Do you consistently lie in bed until your second born is awake, leaving your firstborn to fend for himself in the meantime?
• Have you ever procrastinated your laundry until it's taken over every nook and cranny in your house?
• Do you have rings around the toilets, scummy showers and spotty mirrors?
• Can you write your name on the floors in your kitchen, just by cleaning them?
• Have you ever called your mom in an effort to prolong the morning?
• Do you have the best of intentions of accomplishing much, only to find that by the end of the day you've done nothing much?
• Do you have a literal/mental portfolio set up for your ultimate dream home?  And do you spend hours browsing blogs, websites and magazines while adding to said portfolio?
• Do you love perusing through Goodwill, Ross, garage sales and dollar stores?
• Do you watch cartoons?  And enjoy them?
• Do you constantly neglect your appearance, without a care in the world?
• Do you enjoy people watching?
• How about window shopping?

I may or may not answer yes to all of the above.  Can we still be friends?  *B

the first of many homemaking posts

I don't think I ever made it very clear that we did indeed lose the house and therefore bought a foreclosed town house (sounds more quaint than condo).  We've been in it for a few months now, and I'm slowly making it into our own little town home ;)  It's not very big and we don't know how long we'll be here... but we're happy to have a place to call our own.  For being a foreclosure, it's in pretty good shape.  BUT, there are a LOT of things I would like to improve and/or change.  And because it's mine, I CAN and I WILL!

So far we've changed out a light fixture (or two, or three), swapped a faucet, painted a few walls, and even designed/installed a custom closet unit.  I also spray painted my front "porch" light and "house" numbers black.  They used to be brass... like this [shudder].  I wish I had before/after pictures, so that you can be as amazed and thrilled as I was with the relatively simple transformation.  Oh, and we've also replaced several of our kitchen appliances.  I now have a love/hate relationship with Craigslist.

Anyway, we have a TON more projects in store for us.  And little by little, I hope to cross things off this massive list:

***THROUGHOUT***
-paneled doors
-new door hardware (knobs, hinges, etc.)
-beadboard WP ceilings (bedrooms)

***OUTSIDE***

FRONT:
-new door handle
-mat
-flowers
-welcome sign???

BACK:
-pavers
-paint storage unit
-new hose
-new grill cover
-drying rack
-new door knob

***DOWNSTAIRS***

FAMILY ROOM:
-wood floors
-refinish desk in white, new hardware
-PB quiet corner chair, red
-new EC knobs
-refinish bench in green
-white beadboard WP on halfwall
-remove countertop, replace with shelf
-clean floors, rug and chair
-refinish book case???

KITCHEN:
-tile floor
-beadboard cabinetry
-knobs for cabinets
-new countertop
-paint
-white beadboard WP in nook
-paint cabinets
-new fridge
-install "new" sink
-magnet board
-dry erase board
-curtains (window/door treatment)
-key ring
-plate montage
-refinish highchair
-laminated chair cushions
-refinish table???
-possible shelves in nook???

LAUNDRY ROOM
-install hooks

***UPSTAIRS***

HALL:
-wall quilt
-matching "S" letter board
-matching framed crochet squares

BATHROOM:
-framed redwork
-hang cat print
-white peg board trim (yellow on bottom, white on top)
-ruffle shower curtain???
-matching towels
-tile flooring

KIDS:
-paint window wall blue
-paint opposite wall white, with blue square
-polka dot curtains
-bunting
-floor throw pillows
-crib pillows
-dresser knobs
-finish toddler bed

MASTER:
-new faucet
-new light fixture
-tile flooring
-hang curtains
-paint closet shelves
-refinish desk/chair
-letter wall
-paint???

Today's project involves some beadboard.  I'm beyond giddy!  So I'll be sure to take before/after pictures this time.  And I hope you don't mind, but I have a plethora of home project posts in store.  Hopefully in the near future.  Anyone else as excited as I am?!  I doubt it.  *B

land of the noble free

I can't sing "America" without tearing up. Such powerful words! It moves me. Same goes for "The Star-Bangled Banner." Such rousing music! Gives me the chills. I love my country, but I do wish I appreciated it more... There are people who are willing to die, just so they can live here. I was born here, made possible by the many brave who fought and sacrificed much, including their lives. For you. For me. For us. Americans unite! And give thanks.

I'd also like to thank the Chinese for inventing the pure awesomeness that is fireworks. *B

a {short} story

There once lived a girl who, much to her husband's dismay, quite liked having short hair. She also enjoyed sporting thick, side-swept bangs. The girl and her coif (and her sweet, accepting husband) lived happily ever after... The end. *B

mini quilt group

Once a week (sometimes more) I head on over to the parentals' for a little sewing action. Mom is the appointed president and I am the dutiful vice president. Sometimes Elsie comes in and offers her opinion, which is full of complimentary squeals, coupled with "helpful" fabric rearrangements. All done with my current work in progress under her feet, on the floor. And then there's Will, who comes in every five minutes asking if he can help. And sometimes I let him. He's getting to be quite the pedal pusher ;)

It's something I look forward to every week. We plan, cut, press, arrange, pin and press again. Always quick and ready to offer praises, suggestions, and thread. We laugh, we talk, we complain and we dream. It's the best quilt group I've ever been to and I'm proud to be an active member! *B

not so little anymore

After perusing through my blog yesterday, I realized that Elsie has grown up quite a bit since she was last featured. So thanks to some photos a la iPhone, here's my prissy missy in action:

She has hair now! And dare I say it, she gets cuter by the day. Which is extremely dangerous, because she also gets her way more often than not. She's a serious ham and a serious tease. And she is a very busy bee with her very own personality to rival that of her brother's. She's in love with animals, babies, jewelry, music, chocolate, olives and scrambled egg yolks. She can cry crocodile tears on cue and has a temper bigger than her britches! She is SUCH a girl, which is definitely new territory for me. If I hadn't delivered her myself, I'd wonder who her mother was ;)

And while it appears that I have a "big" toddler on my hands, she's still my pretty little baby. And she always will be. *B

pigs really do fly!

Do you ever read your own blog? Are you embarrassed to find that it's awkward and whiny? Or are you pleasantly pleased with your wit and personal awesomeness? If you came across your blog via blog-hopping, would you like what you see? Is it weird that I just spent about an hour re-reading my blog and inspired myself to start blogging again??? So, where to start? Let's pretend like it hasn't been three months. Like I'm not a stranger in my own little world I've created here; a place where my own mother still comes to visit... Yeah, that sounds good!

You know what else is good? Life. Life is good. It's hard, but oh so good. I've grown a lot and I'm happy nowadays :) It's refreshing. I still work for my dad, but Brad also has a job. Money is tight, but I've come to realize that it always will be. And that it can be a blessing, not a curse. I'm enjoying my kids, and my home. I'm enjoying my role in our family, finding joy in my talents, and discovering my calling in life. Right now I'm appreciative of the challenges we've faced. That I've faced. And as crazy as it may sound, I'm looking forward to the challenges we'll have. That I'll have. Because God loves me, and He knows me. And every now and then, when I catch a quick glimpse of the person He sees, I find peace and happiness and I like what I see.

Let's be friends again Blog. I've missed you. It's time to rediscover each other. Are you as excited and hopeful as I am? I hope so. *B

someday

I would really like to get back to recording, crafting, schooling, and most importantly, mothering... I miss it all. But alas! time and energy (and money) is of the essence. Of which I have none. So today I will throw myself a pity party. And hope someday comes sooner than later. *B

a busy b is me

I'm alive and kicking. Kung Fu style ;) I have no idea if anyone reads this anymore, but I just felt so bad for having gone an entire month without posting! And I have no idea if/when normal posting will resume... but I think I have a rather legitimate excuse (besides the Holidays): I started working. As in, wake up before 8:00 AM, get ready (shower + makeup + hair, aka. no pajamas) and leave my babies for 4-8 hours :( But really, it's all good. And I consider myself very lucky and blessed to have been offered a good job. My boss is a pretty nice guy. I've known him my whole life! I mean, he made me... ok, so I work for my dad. But it's a real job that pays real money, which we desperately need! So while Brad studies for the AZ bar, and until he either gets more hours or finds a killer part-time job, I'm a working mom. *B

{image here}

like mother, like daughter

Last night was a long one. Which automatically makes for a long day... but today, instead of going back to bed, I got to go to the Christmas Idea House with my dear mother. Even though we missed the first bus, ate runny (albeit tasty) quiche for breakfast, and browsed through a crowded house full of not-as-fancy-as-to-be-expected decor, we had fun. We always have fun together. And we came home exhausted.

Why do I feel like I've been up since before dawn?! Oh, that's right... because I have been! Elsie's hardly slept in the past 24 hours, poor thing. She was acting kind of fussy last night, and it steadily got worse. Only her brother could distract her from her ear tugging and restlessness. Poor baby. But man, does she LOVE her big brother! And sibling bath time. So cute :) Anyway, after much rocking, singing, and other such useless attempts at distracting, we called for backup: a Priesthood blessing. Thank Heaven for good friends who answer desperate late night phone calls! Little miss got her blessing and was able to fall asleep in her mother's arms. Cuddling a ball of yarn.

I love my mom. I love my daughter. And I love that I'm both. *B

tonight's forecast: star weaving

it may be sunny outside

But there's a hint of a chill :)
There's not much better than crafting up a Christmas storm! And I haven't even started on the homemade gifts... I better get crack-a-lackin'. But for now, I'm seeing stars! *B

truly random

*If it's true, this is my 365th post. That's a year's worth of posts over three years...
*Had a rough week this past week... even though it was the week of thanks, I had a difficult time focusing on what we have and unfortunately focused more on things we don't have. Like a job. Or a house. Or just our own place with our own furniture would be nice. Passing the CA Bar would have been even nicer...
*I've been throwing myself into crafting. It's a happy distraction, at times. I really want to make these. And I'd really like to get my Christmas quilts quilted. I didn't quite finish my Thanksgiving cross-stitch, but maybe, just maybe, I'll finish my Christmas stitchery on time ;) I'm also dreaming up a Christmas granny square pillow, made out of some beautiful brick colored Alpaca wool I got for my birthday (thanks Mom!).
*After hours of agonizing and comparing apartments, we've decided that maybe buying a condo/townhouse might be a smart investment... because a two bedroom townhouse is cheaper than a two bedroom apartment. True story. So maybe we'll live in a condo for a year or two, get our life back in order, and then rent it out when we eventually move up in the world. We'll see. We did place a bid on a rather nice townhouse close by. We'll see. It's funny though, because I swore I would NEVER buy a condo. Never. And now we just might. I'm trying not to think about it, because it makes me mad that I'm not moving into a (4 bedroom) house. I'm also trying not to think about it because the thoughts of having our own place again (even if just a condo) just seems too good to be true, and I'm tired of having my heart broken...
*I need to cut my boys' hair. Wishing my little girl's hair would grow a bit more... especially since every now and then I catch a glimpse of strawberry blond curls.
*I wish I could be happy for others and their miracles, but more often than not I'm left feeling bitter. I hate that.
*I'm tired of crying. Lots of weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth going on over here. I hate it.
*I love Bing Crosby. And Ella Fitzgerald. And Frank Sinatra. And Christmas music. I love Pandora! I also love Hulu and Netflix. They've saved us from Cable withdrawals.
*Am I really the only one who thought that sending a M.A.L.P. through the Narnia wardrobe was hilarious?! That's embarassing, haha.
*Saw New Moon (with my baby brother and my clueless father) and liked it. It was definitely better than Twilight. But it was still lame... because let's face it, the books themselves are lame. Reading cheesy fantastical romances is hugely different than watching it. That being said, how inappropriately hot was Jacob?! Wow. If I weren't such a vampire fan - a love and obsession long before the Twilight saga - I'd be team Jacob. If I were Bella, I would have ditched Edward a long time ago... the only thing he has going for him are his looks, and being a vampire. In my book, the latter characteristic is key. Like I said, I'm a sucker for vampires! But if anyone were to sway me from my weird devotion, it would be that wolf boy ;) Maybe I'm team Volturi... Italian vampires? Yes please.
*Little Miss is crawling!!!
*As much as I love nursing, I've been going back and forth on whether or not I should continue with it or give up. You see, I'm really worried about my health. Physically and mentally. And I can't really do what I need to do to help my health without it affecting my milk supply. But then again, I feel like nursing is the one thing I've triumphed over this year...
*I love going to the temple. I wish I could go every day and all day. I am constantly craving the peace and strength that comes from visiting often.
*Anyone interested in an online quilt group? We could share projects, organize block exchanges, talk stash, sew on and sew forth ;) It could be fun! Please tell me you'll think about it.
*Really wanting to relearn how to knit, applique, and embroider. I'd also like to try my hand at rug-making... there I go, preemptively throwing myself into crafts again!
*Since the past few Octobers haven't been the best, I might have to change my favorite holiday from Halloween to Christmas. Red and green are my two favorite colors, after all ;)
*If I could choose one word to wear around my neck or to hang on my walls, it would be BELIEVE. I love that word. It's filled with hope and magic.

How's that for random??? *B

funny is as funny does

I thought I'd use Fridays to post about things that brighten my day(s). And as this particular Friday happens to be a somewhat stressful/sad day, this sure did bring a smile to my face :)


What has you smiling? Anyone have a funny story/joke to share? Because I'd love to hear 'em! *B

kinda blurry

published in 1968

I scored this little gem at our local Goodwill. It caught my eye... I quickly glanced around the room and then quickly grabbed it for my own! It will go absolutely PERFECT in Elsie's room (when she has one). See, it even matches her bedding ;)

It's full of sweet little pictures, songs, stories (with morals!), etc. I love it oh so much and it makes me so very happy. *B

a day in the life of

crafting at night

Bad lighting, but boy do I love me some cross-stitch! Hopefully I'll finish it before Thanksgiving... my track record isn't too great, seeing as I just finished my Halloween needlework yesterday. True story. Don't judge. *B

almost famous

A couple of days ago Brad came across this article. Naturally, he thought it might interest me ;) So, I dutifully passed on the information to the Lex. As in the Twilight Lexicon. And then, they mentioned me! Yeah, when they say "TY to Beth for pointing it out" that's me! I'm Beth! And I am oh so cool now.

So I started thinking about all of my encounters with the famous. The Black Apple mentioned, and linked, me on her blog once. That was pretty awesome. And Heather Bailey came and visited my little blog and even left a comment! That sure was exciting, too. And then there's all the people we chanced to meet while living in Malibu, CA: Pamela Anderson, Denise Richards, Jay Leno (driving one of his fancy cars), guy from Burn Notice, Fred from Buffy, Wesley Crusher (real nice guy) and Data from Star Trek, Dr. Klopeck from The 'Burbs, and of course, our personal favorite, Richard Dean Anderson, aka. Jack O'Neill from Stargate SG-1, also known as MacGyver. I feel like I'm missing someone... anyway, fun times in the Golden State!

And there you have it! My brief brushes with fame. Maybe someday I'll meet Stephenie Meyer. She lives here, you know. *B

faith in all things

Today in Relief Society the lesson was on faith. Go figure ;) Anyway, the lesson was great in and of itself, but the comments shared were equally enlightening. As some women briefly shared their struggles, I stopped and counted how many serious life-changes I've had to deal with this past year. I came up with at least seven. But, it is good to know that I'm not alone. Not that I would ever wish any of my hardships on another, or hope that someone else has a rough time with life. However, it is nice to know that I'm not the only one struggling.

We talked about the destructive path of doubt, the antithesis of faith and hope. And how miracles do not promote faith, but they come as answers to faith. I realized that we all feel the same during our hardships, too. We all feel that "why me?" at some point(s) in our lifetime. For me, it's "but it was such a good plan," and I've had to stop myself and remember that it's not about my plan, it's about God's plan.

A couple of weeks ago I was reading a chapter from President Eyring's "To Draw Closer to God". The chapter is titled "Trials of Faith" and in it he promises that 1) there will be trials of your faith; 2) there will be opportunities to serve others, and; 3) we will see God again. As I sat in church today, with tears running down my face (and no tissues!), I remembered his words: "Please find out what it is the Lord would have you do, believe he has prepared a way for you to do it, and share what he's given you with others. As you do that, you will feel his love and you will become more like him. You will find joy and consolation, you will become sanctified by the gospel, and then you can go home again."

I must admit, I am feeling better about things. Not because things are easier. They're not. We lost the house, we're still looking for extra work, and Elsie insists on waking up at least three times a night... but our Savior has suffered more, and He has lifted the weight of my burdens from my shoulders. They're still there, and I don't know how long I have to endure them. But I do believe I've been given the strength to carry them. I am exercising my faith. *B

more blogging

Is it just me or does it seem like all of Blogland is slowing down? I mean, unless you're a somebody, hardly anyone visits (let alone comments) on your blog. Now don't get me wrong, I am NOT complaining about this latest trend. It's just that I've heard a lot (and felt the same) about feeling pressured to be popular or go private.

I didn't start blogging just because everyone else was doing it. I started it for me. I've talked about it in the past, but I really do want this blog to be mine. To be a journal of sorts. But a journal worth sharing. I want it to mean something to me, my family, and my friends. Some of those friends are real-life best friends. But more often than not, those friends are acquaintances reconnected or friends that I've met through various online communities. The start of these friendships does not matter so much as the relationship... and I am always up for making, and keeping, friends!

Anyway, I started wondering why I read the blogs I do. And I started thinking of blogs I admire. There's Clarissa for her consistency, Camille for her creativity, NieNie for her strength, Heather for her tenacity... and the list goes on. And I realized that I want to be that kind of a blogger. For me. And for you (the reader). Not because I want to be the next big thing, or because there's an assumed responsibility, but because I want to be better. I want to write down my thoughts, hopes and dreams, to reveal my struggles and celebrate my triumphs, to share my crafts/projects, to show off my cute kids, etc. I want to post it all and I know at least someone out there wants to read some of it.

So, I have an idea. Really, it's my game plan... I have a nifty little trick that helps me plan meals day after day and I'm going to try and apply the same concept to my blogging. And that, my friends, is the secret of themes. Call me lame, or just plain silly, but I think it just might work! I'm going to at least try it and we'll see what happens ;) For now, I'm thinking of having Random Mondays, Creative Tuesdays, Wordless Wednesdays, Thrifted Thursdays, Funny Fridays, and Sacred Sundays. Maybe I'll throw in a Sharing Saturday, haha. Basically, there may or may not be a brand new post every day... it will just depend.

I want to be a better blogger. I think it's good for me. It's what I need, for now. *B

love this day

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!
The Summers Family

behind the Summers' smiles

The Summers (oldest to youngest)

THE HUB
Goes by: Law-school grad, patent agent, breadwinner
Addictions: anything on the computer and watching movies with commentary
Color: green

ME
Goes by: B, Buffy, Bethers, Bethie-Poo
Addictions: anything to do with fabric, needle, thread, yarn and vampires
Color: red

THE BOY
Goes by: Monk, Bubba, Buddy, Willie
Addictions: board/video/computer games
Colors: orange and yellow
Food: scrambled eggs, cheese, bread, and juice
Song: Knights of Cydonia by Muse (seriously)

THE GIRL
Goes by: little miss, munchkin, Boo, Elsers
Addictions: mom, waving hi, clicking her tongue, and spitting
Colors: Blue, only because she looks so good in it (hello eyes)! Also pretty in pink...
Food: milk a la mom and pureed carrots
Song: Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree

I love my family! They make me happy. They make me smile. *B

my kids just might be the cutest things ever

And I can say that because I'm not prejudiced.

Ok, maybe I am. But, just a little bit. *B

the house

We still don't know if we'll get the chance to actually live in it, but for now we're still building... since the future isn't looking too promising and we don't know if we'll have the pleasure of calling it "our house" for much longer, we (aka. I) now refer to it simply as "the house." Yesterday we headed out to check on the progress of the house, and I must say, it's looking good!

I love the floorplan (I'm really picky when it comes to floorplans). I love the location. I love the lot. I love the cabinets, carpet, tile, and even the linoleum...

Yes, we're still trying to figure out a way to make "the house" our house for good. Wish us luck! But really, we're asking for a miracle. We'll just have to see what happens! *B

PS- HAPPY OCTOBER!!!

a whole lot of perfect(ion) going on

Like many others, my heart is feeling a wee bit on the heavy side nowadays. It's amazing how one day everything seems to be clicking into place... we had the perfect job and in two months, we'd be moving into our perfect little dream house preparing for our first perfect Christmas in our first perfect home. And then the very next day, we find ourselves (in a now seemingly pointless one-bedroom apartment) with an unsteady future; our perfect job may not be so perfect and our perfect new home now looks more and more unlikely. I couldn't be sadder. I couldn't be lower. One day I was engulfed in the happy planning of my happy life. The next day I was engulfed in doubt, despair and discouragement.

And then I remember that that's life. And I'm not scared. When Brad was preparing for the CA Bar he worried... What if his studying wasn't enough? What if he didn't pass? The list of fears went on and on. But I assured him that as important as this test is, it does not define him. And so I remind myself, as I reminded him, of what does define us: our family and the gospel. What more do we need?

Last night, after I cried myself silly, I watched this (that Nie has uncanny timing). And today I read this, and this. I acknowledge the fact that life is hard. My life isn't perfect... But, my life is good. And I'm here to be perfected. God is perfect and God is good, also. And He's given me three reasons to smile:

And so I do. *B