But no matter how crazy the month of December is, I love it. A lot. I did great this year with gift buying. I had it all taken care of by December 1st! And I came in under budget! {Always a plus!} I had a plan and it fell into place. It was really nice. I enjoyed it all. My kids were awesome. Emme tried hard to convince us that Jesus is a baby on Christmas – every Christmas. She gets that he is 2000 years old, but on Christmas . . . he is a baby! Except from midnight to sunrise . . . then he is Santa Claus. “Because he is amazing and he can do things like that.” haha! Still cracks me up when I think about it! Lawson has every Christmas song memorized and is still singing them. Carson loved the Christmas lights – and has decided that we are keeping the lights in his room. Hudson, . . . well just know that he has been watching Christmas movies everyday since June. That boy has been “in the spirit” for months. He was disappointed when he woke up on December 26th.

Em is on a Lala Loopsy kick – anyone else out there have an obsessed child?

Lawson’s favorite toys are all educational. Seriously, this dollar toy is one of his favorites! And his absolutely favorite was a president puzzle. {And my OT friends, I don’t let my children sit like this. I specifically remember asking him to sit the correct way after this picture!}

This is the fake smile. Everyone with kids have at least one kid that has the “fake” smile! haha! This really is probably one of the most hysterical expressions ever. And he is going to kill me one day when he knows that I just posted this for the world to see. {Sorry babe, this is what happens when you keep doing it!}

And Hudson with his beloved Innotab. He is in his serious mode here. And on top of the world.

I’m fortunate to have taken a few pictures. Normally, we are so wrapped up in the excitement that we don’t even think to pick up the camera! But the one picture I get every year is the after math . . .

This is my happy picture. This is what I dreamed of Christmas morning looking like when I was a kid. Don’t get me wrong, I think the Grinch said it best when he said, “It came without ribbons!… it came without tags!… it came without packages, boxes, or bags!” But with a 3 gift minimum + each child gives each sibling a gift in the $10 and under range + Santa’s gift = a lot of gifts! My kids don’t get toys other than at birthdays. Don’t get me wrong there are times they do receive little things. But I knew before I had children, that toys were not going to be given all the time. And I’m glad we have stuck to it because it makes times like this unbelievable! Nothing like seeing a grateful heart on Christmas morning.

And because I know you want to see my Christmas card for this year {although I’ve not sent them out yet!} Like last year, they will be a “New Year card!” I already have a caption for this – I will tell you in another post. BUT I want to know what you guys would put on this! haha!

Again, I hope you all have a fantastic new year! And blogging is on my priority list for 2012!

Who is ready for Thanksgiving tomorrow?? I’m cooking again this year. We expect a “few” people. This year, we are doing it at supper time instead of dinner{lunch} time. Which gives me all day to prepare. I basically got all the sweets taken care of today and all the prep work done. My kids have cooperated and been so good – I probably just jinxed it. If the stars stay aligned, I will be able to feed them supper, bathe them and then put those jokers in the bed. They will fall asleep immediately and I can go straight into painting. I should also be able to lose 8 pounds, my skin go to flawless as my dark eye circles disappear by the morning. I’m feeling hopeful.

HA!

And for those wondering, my house is still somewhat clean. But I said somewhat – so somewhere in between losing 8 pounds and my flawless skin, I have to pick up around here as well as sweep, mop and dust.

I have a few pictures of the next canvas for your viewing pleasure. The first picture was taken before the outer border was even stated. But it looked so cool with the sun shining. This was on of those times I actually painted this from the center out. Literally finished each layer before going to the next. I don’t always do that. Actually, I rarely do that. But this was a time that it just worked out that way.

The base of this painting is the original “Stella” painting. It is funny how this paintings has changed over time. Yet, the “Stella” is still one of my favorite paintings to date.

This bedding came from Pottery Barn Kids. The intent was to paint just flowers and not to match the bedding. And I couldn’t be more pleased with the way it all turned out! Of course, I only painted the painting. This client did a fantastic job putting it all together!

I know I have told you guys before how much I love seeing photos of the paintings in their “place” or even with the child/baby in the picture! And I’m sure after seeing pictures like this, you have to understand why. I actually lifted these off her blog! Just proof that I will stalk you until I get a glimpse!

Guys, have a very merry Thanksgiving. I hope to post again tomorrow {I have been on a small roll.} But just in case I don’t have the time, I want you to know how much you all mean to me. There would be no “small words” if it wasn’t for you all. Thank you.

I think I’m getting old!

Twenty-nine just isn’t they same as it was four years ago. {tee hee!}

In other news, I did finish another painting. I need to look at my numbers and repost where I’m at on the list. But I’m too tired!! I also have emails to answer. Forgive me, but I’ll work on those later, too! No lies to tell, I’m going to finish this post and set my happy hiney on the couch and watch an hour or two of mindless tv. My kids will probably eat a nutritious supper of cheeze-its. And we will all be happy!!!

So without further adieu . . .

The comedy of this painting is how Carson saw it, asked me whose name it was and then said, “I wish my name was Jackson.” haha!! I’m going to have to paint for my own children!!!!!!

Yet again, I’m stuck here at the house! Fortunately, it is with Hudson. He is fabulous to let me do some stuff around here without entertaining him. He gets so wrapped up in his own stuff {reading or a tv show} that he can do without me. The boy can even get his own snacks and drink! We went to the grocery store to pick up the last of the Thanksgiving groceries today after dropping off everyone else at school and he said, “We need to hurry and get home! You only have 2 hours to paint before Lawson gets off the bus!!” haha!! I never even mentioned painting or working for that matter. He just read my mind, I guess. Love that kid!

On to the next painting . . . .

I have to admit that during these next few paintings, I had to slow it down! I had several with the same name. Or they had similar fabrics. Or the exact bedding! I was fa-Reakin’ out I was going to ship the wrong painting to the wrong person!!! OR slip the wrong ‘thank-you’ in the wrong box – which I guess wouldn’t have been so bad, but incredibly embarrassing. I’m fairly confident that I didn’t make any of those mistakes or I would have heard by now. Unless, they are too weirded out to let me know! ha!

I know this is going to sound bad, but I love how this one has the “dirty” look to it! hah! I love that type of vintage-look! And I actually continued it throughout the entire painting!

I’m off to paint – even if it is for just a few minutes!

As a parent of four, there are so many times that I sit back and start laughing. Last night was definitely one of them. I know that sounds mean. And I know I’m not the only one that does it. But to be frank, I would probably go crazy if I didn’t!!! I swear, I’m not laughing that my kid has pink eye. It is just they fact that the first day that all the kids are well -BOOM- the cycle starts over!

aaannnnddddd now I’ve woke up to the congestion {to include a nasty cough} that the kids have/had. The gift that keeps on giving. But the good news is that I’m the mother and I possess those super powers where you can just keep going no matter how bad you feel. One of the wonderful gifts that God gives you when you have children. Although, I have every intentions of laying on the couch today because I really feel that bad! And I’m not beneath bribing my children to take it easy on me.

I have another painting to show you guys – okay, so I have quite a few, but only 1 at a time!

For those wondering about the bedding . . .

photo credit

It came from Polka Tot Designs. If you click on the above picture it will take you to the boys’ selection of bedding. And the bedding above is called “Jared.”

I think I told you guys last time that blogging was interfering with time that I felt should be used for painting. Unfortunately, I had atleast 1, if not 2, sick kids at home with me every day this week. From the pukies to pink eye, this week was a total bust when it came to painting. I literally did NOT pick up a paint brush. Okay, except when I moved a handful of brushes from the bathroom sink back to my studio. But that is it! I didn’t dip one in any paint. Sad! Depressing! Just down right wrong! But my babies come first and I can’t stand seeing any of those crazies sick.

It is funny how I can’t paint, but I can clean the house when I have some cootie carriers. ??? But then again, I’m trying to get rid of all those nasty cooties! I’m not bragging, but you could eat off my floors right now – not that I would. But you could. I’m pretty sure the five second rule was just pushed up to about 13 seconds. Not bad when you have four kids ages 6 and under! I’m hoping the kids will at least keep all their toys picked up from downstairs and keep each of their bedrooms clean. That way, I shouldn’t have a whole lot to do for Thanksgiving. Except cook. Which I guess I should probably work on that menu.

But before I do that , I’m going to finish up this post so that you guys know that I’ve not stopped painting or succumbed to my crazies or died.

Okay, I know this one is number “47″ and I’m not really that far down the line. There was a little scare with Addison and I just wanted to make sure her nursery was complete for some personal reasons. The good news is that after a long stay in the NICU, Addison is at home and doing fabulous!

On Tuesday the 18th, I had to put my dog down. Yesterday was actually the first day that I haven’t cried. And I’ve done great today, too. I have been a total wreck. She woke up fine that morning, but within 30 minutes she was puking, pooping, breathing heavy and couldn’t really stand up. I took her to the vet as soon as I got everyone else to school. Since she had been fine, I was really hoping it was viral. Apparently, she had a massive tumor that had ruptured causing her to get sick – QUICK. I chose to have her cut open before I made a decision to put her down. Needless to say, she had been sick for a very long time and I had no idea.

This dog was so loyal. I have had her since she was 5 weeks old. I got her for my other dog – Frenchie. That is what dog owners do – get a dog for their dog. I was devastated when French passed. But this time has been awful. I think where I didn’t have a dog to come home to made it so final. When I came home from dropping off the kids two days after she died, I screamed out, “TIDDLES! COME GIVE ME SOME LOVE!” I’m sure it was only a split second, but I actually had the complete thought run through my head, where is that dog and why isn’t she killing herself to get to me! Because that is what she did when I came home. She would hang out with me, at my feet the entire time I would paint during the school time when the house was empty. She would even follow me to the bathroom when I was cleaning out all my brushes. She was the type of dog you didn’t need a leash for. She always walked beside me. There was no need for a doorbell. And I swear when you said “bye,” she would always say “bye” back. I think eventually we will get another dog. And I’m sure it will be a Sheltie. But 8 1/2 years was such a short amount of time with my dog. It might take me that long to accept a new one.

For all those who left me such sweet messages about Tidbit, thank you. And to all those who cried with me, that means more than you will ever know.

The day after the Wheelers all were traumatized by the loss of our pet, Carson and Lawson turned 5. I can’t believe my twins had another year older. We had a party outside the home this time. And I’m soooooo glad I did. With Tidbit’s passing there was noway that I would have been in any shape to clean my house and cook for everyone. We privately rented the Discovery Center. It is one of those hands-on type museums for little people. It was fantastic!! I wish I would have taken more pictures so that you can really see this place. We had the whole place to ourselves and we had a substantial amount of people. AND none of my kids flipped out on me – miracle!

I love posting pictures like this! It blows me away how much Carson and Lawson look alike. Which really is probably one of the stupidest things I’ve ever said since they are identical! But those jokers have my head and everything on it {Poor kids!} It is hard to see it in this picture, but the parts in the hair are actually on the opposite sides of the head. These two are what is called mirror image twins. Lawson’s {the middle picture} part follows mine. And amazingly, his hair has crazy body in it like mine. I’m sure it would hang in ringlets if I would let it grow it out. {Not gonna happen.}

And like I told you guys in the last post, I swear that I’ve been painting. And somehow, I’m going to have to pick up the pace because . . . .  My van has the doors that will automatically open with a push of a button and the passenger side door has blown a motor. A teeny, tiny part. A part that is going to cost me $1600 to repair. You read that right – One thousand, six hundred dollars. Because it wasn’t bad enough that it got stuck open when I was rushing out the door to pick up the kids from school while it was raining, the joker will open up while I’m driving down the road!! Hopefully, I’ll be able to push some paintings out this month!

And proof that I have been working, I’m going to show you guys some sneaky peekies for your viewing pleasure!

There are a few sneaky peekies for you to wonder about. I’ll start posting them individually during the next few days!

It is that time of year where it is getting cooler! I was dying to pull out all my Halloween stuff, but then I decided to only pull out a few things this year.

Two of my children have already went to a pumpkin patch this year through their school. This is Em’s pumpkin. For a few days, she carried it everywhere – which is the reason you see the bruising. I kept visualizing her dropping it and pumpkin guts going everywhere!!! It was killing me. I finally convinced her to let me set it on the table so she could see it anytime she wanted!

I also sat out my little people. I think I blog about these guys every year. I love them so! And to tell you the truth, other than a few other things and a couple of my Dept 56 village, that is it. Since I was having the boys’ birthday party somewhere other than the house this year, I wanted to keep it at a minimum. And because I’m hosting a baby shower here at my house shortly after that and I don’t want to spend a bunch of my time packing up Halloween “stuff.”

I also found some fabric – that sorta looks like the fabric in the last post! First off, the fabric in the previous post is from a designer in the UK {thank you readers who directed me in the right direction!} And she has very select places here that carry her line. I googled and went through pages! The closest one to my was Atlanta. And really, I thought I could see what there was that was tad different in my area with a not-so-steep price tag.

I really like the deeper turquoise the most. But the price . . .

. . . still has a steep price – and a 3 yard minimum. I’m going to have to save my money for this project! And I might have to wait till my kids age a little. Or maybe move out. Because those jokers are determined to leave their mark on everything in this house! But I love them and sorta hope they stay here a long time. Even if that means my furniture will look like crap.

It’s a trade-off.

I do have several pieces of art that I need to post about. I will try to get on it this week and post them.

***SOLD***

And before I run out to get my kid off the bus . . . I have a painting for sale! That is right – for sale.

I’m selling a classic “Classic Collection” W. As most of you know, I no longer paint this design. And this was the ORIGINAL! This was the first one I ever painted. So, it does look slightly different than what the collection finally ended up looking like. It is an 8×10 and it will need a frame {because this one doesn’t come with it.}It is a standard canvas with the staples along the side. It has a gold background and it accented in gold. The W is painted black. For $35 +shipping {+ tax if you are in Tennessee,} this could be your “W” – just email me at smallwords{at}comcast{dot}net. First to respond, gets it!!!

at our old home

{I swear that is a money tree on the table. IF you have no idea what I’m talking about, then please, ignore these two sentences because you might be good people and it might only look like a potted plant !}

Any hoodle, once we moved to our new home, I got a new table. Because obviously, this table only seated 4 – unless I put the leaf in it. Then it would seat a couple more, but the round ends still gave little space.

I painted it black because I didn’t know what I was going to do with the chairs. And, as usual, distressed it a little.

Errr, actually alot. It was new – then I beat it, poked it and removed chunks from it! That is nothing but some distressin’ lovin’!!!

And basically, that is where I’m at today. For the past 4 years, I’ve lived with the 4 chairs around this table! One of the main reason’s we moved was so that we all could sit around the table! I will tell you that I’ve had a few temporary stand-ins. We do have a couple of bar stools. And recently, I bought 6 chairs from a friend. I had every intentions of painting them black and maybe give them a lot little worn look. But the chairs didn’t fit right. They were just so tall! And heavy! And just not right. Don’t get me wrong – they are awesome, solid chairs {anyone in the market for 6 chairs?} but they didn’t work for the space. And frankly, I love my old ones!

I know you are wondering why I don’t go get 2 to match the 4 I already have! Here is the thing. They came from Pottery Barn years ago!!! I looked in the magazine at those chairs for years! Every single time I would go into the store, I would search those puppies OUT! I don’t think Lonnie and I were married yet, but he finally convinced me to go get the dang chairs! For $180 a piece, I bought 4 of them. I had a cousin that worked at the store and he informed me that it was a good thing I was getting them – they were retiring that design. I remember thinking “good thing is right!” I would have died if I finally decided to get those and they were gone! If I ever thought I would have needed more, I would have gotten them at that time. Who knew that I would pop out kids like I was getting paid!?

The chairs have been fantastic! Definitely one of the best pieces of furniture I’ve ever bought from Pottery Barn – and I’ve bought a lot! They have held up great and only for 1 seat {that Lawson picked at continuously,} even the rush seating is in great shape! I have finally decided to keep them and find 2 coordinating chairs for each end of the table. I thought I found a style.

Love it.

Love it so much, I could marry it.

I want it.

Drooling.

Even the stain is the exact color as the stain on the original 4 chairs.

Of course that is the great part of finding them in Pottery Barn! But then there is a kicker.

They are $499 each! I have no lies to tell, if I find something I really like, love, want to share the rest of my life with it, I will normally pay the price – no matter how steep. But 4 kids later . . . . I no longer have “stuff” that is “nice” anymore in my house. There is no way in HELL I’ll pay $499 for a chair! Especially because I need 2 – and $998 just sounds like groceries, utility bill, water bill, cell bill and some of my mortgage!

Dear Pottery Barn,

I love your stuff. I have so much of it that it is ridiculous. But come on – $499 for a dining chair? Really? That hurts me in so many ways. Unfortunately, my kids could break down your $499 chair probably quicker than they can take out $499 in groceries. So, for this time, . . . I’m going to have to pass. I’m sad. My heart is broken. Hopefully, you will forgive me this time for my straying ways, but I just can’t convince myself that this is a smart purchase. Not at this point in my life. Or my kids’ lives. Unless you can come up with 2 chairs that match my current ones, I have no other choice but to move on {this one time.}

With all my love, Kim Tate Wheeler

What a dilema. But fortunately, I had a friend that mentioned the Home Decorator’s Collection. Guess what I found?!?!

Yes, the legs are a bit different but I still love them. Even the idea of black is better for me  - to match my table! AND the price – I know you are wanting to know – What’s up $135!?

The one thing I’m not a fan of – the fabric. Just a little too neutral for me. I don’t know if you know this about me, but I like color! I found this kitchen on Pinterest and fell in love with all the fabrics! My favorite is the dot on the back of the chairs – anyone know where I can find any of this fabric?!? I don’t know if I would really use it, but I want a swatch to see if I would {on the back of the chair!}

I’ve not ordered the chairs yet – only because I’m holding out I might find 2 more of my original chairs on Craigs List. {yeah right.} But if I do order the ones above {the $135 ones,} I think I might {maybe} paint the other 4 black {because 10 years is a long time and a miracle to not get at least 1 coat of paint in this house} and upholster the rush seating since 1 is in really bad shape {thanks Laws.} I’ll keep you all in the loop on what I decide.

That kid’s eyes seriously twinkle!

First off, both ladies were so nice and I’m so glad that I’m stepping out of my own comfort zone!

Second, I literally sat down and just painted this the day of the party! But I think I have less than 2 hours invested in it total. I loved painting on the wood. And it went so quick. It dried quick. Came together quick! I love instant gratification!

And because so many of you, I KNOW, like to see the bedding that these paintings go to match . . .

Okie Dokie bedding from JCPenney

Is this not cute bedding?? The colors and the number theme – Lawson would want it!

The bedding has tons of fun colors AND I was fortunate to have been sent a piece of it to see!

{As I’ve been trying to do lately,} if you click on the photo below, it will take you directly to the site where you can purchase the bedding.

Photo and bedding from Little Miss Matched

And did you notice that today’s “Landin” and yesterday’s post, “Kadin” and “Colin” all end in “in”  ???? I’m not going to assume that was her attentions, because it wasn’t mine originally with all the “son”s that I have – BUT it is really cool! {And I’m working on a “Landon” now!}

The next post is an interesting painting. But I’ll explain more in that post!

These two paintings are for brothers who share a room. The goal was to use the same colors {because obviously, they have to “match”} but make them different at the same time.

The bedding is the Madras from PBK – I’m pretty sure this would have been Hudson’s bedding if they offered it six and a half years ago. The colors are just fantastic. You can use them all or just focus on a few making it a great basic bedding for anyone . . . . as long as you like plaid! {Which I do.}

On another note! Who pins on Pinterest? And for those who said “yes,” do you actually do anything with the pins? I have found so many great ideas! One of the greatest ideas ever was glow sticks in the tub! My kids loved it! The whole room was lit up!

Do yourself a favor and try this! Bath time easily could have lasted 4 hours – 1 hour for each kid. But it was a school night. Even Hudson loved this {and that says a lot!} I know exactly what I’ll be doing Friday or Saturday night {or both!}

Also during this time, we spent a ridiculous amount of money on Thomas the Train tickets. Just to be frank – it wasn’t worth it. Actually, I would consider it a rip off for a family 6. If you have 1 kid or 2, I’m thinking it would be fantastic. But throw in a couple of extra kids, some rain and a kid that lives in a literal world . . . I’m sure the following pictures will explain it all!

Hudson – “There is a train with some kind of crazy face on it behind me!”

Lawson – “I’m feeling very uncomfortable with this train behind me.”

Emme – “I love my Thomas the Train tattoo and this rain is pretty cool, too.”

Carson – “Are you done yet with the picture?”

Hudson – “This is probably one of the dumbest things I’ve ever been made to do. I hate trains with faces!”

Lawson – “They asked me to smile for the picture – I’m smiling for the picture. Now, let’s go. This rain is killing me and my shoes!”

Emme – “I think standing in this COLD rain was one of my favorite things I did today! And my tattoo was cool, too. ”

Carson – “Are you done yet with the picture?”

Hudson – “I’m starting to get nervous and giggly. I really want to go home because there is a freakin’ train that has a face BEHIND ME!”

Lawson – “Cheese. Cheese. Cheese. Rain is falling on my head! Cheese.”

Emme – “I’m tired of looking cute for these pictures. But I’m trying while I think of how cool this rain and tattoo are!”

Carson – “Are you done yet with the picture?!”

Hudson – “Hello!! There is a train! With a face! Just a few feet behind me! I think he is watching me! And I can’t stand it!!!”

Lawson – “Cheese. Cheese. Cheese. Rain is still falling. On my HEAD! Cheese.”

Emme – “I’m starting to agree with Lawson. And this is getting old. And this rain is cold. And can you take off this tattoo?”

Carson – “Are you done yet with the picture?”

Hudson – “Did you see that! That joker is looking right at me! I think he is creeping on the track and trying to get closer to me!!!!!”

Lawson – “Come on. I’m so over this.”

Emme – “I can’t feel my finger. Hudson’s anxiety is starting to rub off on me. ”

Carson – “Are you done yet with the picture?”

Hudson – “I know you said that the train is pretend. But I see a face on a train. What is pretend with that?! You know, I am smarter than you were at 6.”

Lawson – “Starting to phase out.”

Emme – “I can’t smile anymore. I’m wet. I’m cold. And I hope like Hades that they never make me come to this again.”

Carson – “Are you done yet with the picture?”

Hudson – “I can feel this train breathing on my neck. I’m about to show this joker my ninja moves!”

Lawson – “2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128, 256,  . . . .”

Emme – “This really is stupid.”

Carson – “I’m done.”

Hudson – “I’m going to have nightmares for the rest of my life because of this train!”

Lawson – ” . . . . , 512, 1024, 2048,  . . . .

Emme – “I’m going to make them give me a dollar for taking my picture!”

Carson – “Bye!”

**** Awesome! Can’t wait for our family Christmas card picture this year!****

Since these pictures {and other than sickness,}

*Em gave herself a haircut. I would post pictures, but I think I’ll give that a whole post – dedicated to just her hair cut.

*The results of all the Hudson’s academic testing came  back, we had the IEP meeting and have {sorta} a plan of action. {And I honestly don’t really know how I feel about it.}

*Lawson is now riding a bus home, one of those cute little short buses {nobody get offended by that – Lawson is the one that called it a “SHORT BUS” and since he wasn’t offended when he said it, it is safe to assume it is okay to call it that!} which in return gives me almost another full hour to paint! So, my butt is planted in my studio between 8:20 till about 11 every morning, Monday through Friday! Of course that is unless I don’t have a school meeting, doctor’s appointment or a field trip with one of the kids’ classes.

*I’m so behind on painting, emails and everything else that it is totally and completely ridiculous. I don’t even know where to begin. {But my laundry is completely caught up.}

*My kids have every line from Home Alone memorized. This would include, “You are such a disease!“, “Keep the change you filthy animal!” {Em says this when she gives you 5,} and my all time favorite “Family SUCKS!” I’ve hid that movie – which is a shame because I use to love it so much – and have threatened the whole soap in the mouth thing.

*I had another Scentsy party! I did last year on the same weekend and had a great turnout. I had another great crowd but I promised to beat my last year’s sales. And, well, I’ve not got there yet. So, I’m begging all of you to help me out!!!! Here is the link to my party! Just remember to click on my name! Please!!!

*I’ve been working on this post since last Sunday. Seriously.

As of 3:30 this morning, Carson was back to normal. And wide awake! He was so excited about his Sir Angus and sleep was the last thing he wanted to do!

So, do you remember this bedding {and painting?} Funny thing is I got another request for a painting to match that bedding. Other than Pottery Barn Kids or Land of Nod, this never happens. Or at least I don’t remember it ever happening. On a random note, I can’t find any other pictures of this painting?! I know I took more, but they have some how got filed under something that isn’t as obvious as it was when I filed the pictures! You would understand if you knew how disorganized I can be sometimes.

Today, I stepped out of my comfort zone and worked on a bigger-than-usual-project. It was one of those last minute things. Which is good, because if I had any time to think about it . . . . I would not have done it! I almost didn’t say anything about it – and really, I hardly told a soul just by chance it didn’t live up to my expectations – which at that point, you would never have heard about it again. Ever. I’ve just been in that mood to step it up, step out of my own boundaries and just face the fear to do it anyways. You know, because I “need” to! haha! And I’m glad I did.

It was absolutely impossible to take a good picture. The space was about 8 feet wide and was at the top of the wall. I had an awesome balancing act going on between 2 ladders with one sitting on some shelving. But it was worth it! The walls were a beautiful robin’s egg blue color. And the quote was painted in several shades of cream and taupes with several metallic, pearl and shimmery paints mixed in.

This was the first time that I’ve ever painted directly on the wall. My biggest concern was painting something so large, with people watching me, no wall color for touch ups and the ladder slipping off the shelf while I was on it. Ohh, and trashing out the wall/shelving unit that was already organized and displayed with nothing but totally adorable-ness! The only thing that happened was I ended removing basically everything that was on the wall and shelf!

I know you can’t really see it very well, but the quote is, “From the moment they placed you in my arms, you snuggled right into my heart.” Everyone all together now, “awwww.” Seriously, this phrase can fit any situation!!!! The part that looks really white is actually a pearl finish reflecting light. Overall, I love the way it turned out and was happy with how smooth it all went! And if any of you go to the MTMC’s gift shop, you can see it in person! {If you are at the hospital, you have to go into this gift shop – you will die at how cute and wonderful it is!!!!}

After 5 hours on a ladder, I’m whooped, beat and just flippin’ tired!

I want to do too much.

Please tell me that there are others that are guilty of this, too!

The funny thing is, I convince myself that these are needs – but in all actuality they are wants! A perfect example would be the laundry. I need to do laundry. But I’ve convinced myself that it has to be done every 3 days. Don’t get me wrong – every 3 days keeps the loads smaller and quicker. But, until someone is on their last pair of underwear – really – it is not a need! I find myself stopping all that I do – to do laundry every Wednesday and Saturday because I “need” to. But it is time I faced the truth – it is just a “want.”

A “want” that sucks away my time! And that is just ONE EXAMPLE! I have tons of them!

And this is with everything! I love how I’m slaving on 6 different projects at one time. Trying to dance the art of balance. Laundry, dishwasher, one of the kid’s “about me” poster, a painting, emails and the boys’ Christmas tree decorations! {Yeah, you read that right.} And then I realize it is already tomorrow and I really didn’t finish any of the projects!

Let me see raised hands of who is guilty!

The best for me is when I’m working feverishly because I “have to finish all this before tomorrow, because tomorrow has its own list of to-do’s, needs, wants” {whatever you want to call it!} Only to realize that it is 2 am and surprisingly – tomorrow is already here!

It is a ridiculous and a sick cycle, . . . . and yet, I just can’t help myself!

And because I know you want to know what type of flippin’ Christmas tree decorations I’m working on in August/September, I figured I could show you.

Remember last year, the boys had 3 trees . . . and I made that incredibly cute garland with the cut out circles sewn together??? Well, I ran into a small problem with that adorable stuff – it kept breaking! The clear thread just wasn’t strong enough to hold all the circles and especially that glitter paper because it was heavy stuff.

So, I did what anyone would do – I gathered them all up and planned how I would “need” to sew them together before next year!

Fortunately for me, I found a much bigger Christmas tree for the boys’ room last year a day or so after Christmas for cheap! Now, none of the lights worked and it did have a small issue. But for 10 bucks . . . . I couldn’t let it go!

Yes, it is one of those Alpine trees. A really tall one! And I did get it at Hobby Lobby, who just so happens to sell them {in perfect condition} for $129.99. Ten dollars was a great deal, no matter what its issues are! I had already spent 45 minutes of my day clipping out all of the non-working lights! But do you see the small issue? Look close. Here this might help . . .

Uhmmm, a part of the branch is broken. Okay, the trunk. ALRIGHT! You got me! About a third of it is just broken off!!!! But come on – 10 smacks!!!! And really, that is an easy fix!!!! I will tell my husband exactly how he is going to repair it! {haha!}

Since I bought this tree, I have been collecting odd letters. Since I’m raising all these brainiacs, I thought they would love the idea {they did, by the way!} of using all the letters as ornaments.

I’ve started mapping them all out. And when I need something to look at – other than canvas and paint – because that does happen – the “need” for a change in scenery – I work on a letter! After all, I “need” to have them completed in about a few {10 or so} weeks. I know, ridiculousness!

And back to that garland . . . . I thought it would be great to use white thread and run the garland through the machine a couple {or 5} times!

It was very important that the stitching was not perfect. {haha!} Honestly, that was probably one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. A crooked seam. It was killing me. But it was needed! I really like the funky-ness of it! And this time I attached all 3 chains together – I think it ended up being 32 feet. Also, I added some grosgrain ribbon at each end – just in case I had to tie it off!

Good grief – what a project.

And I just realized something – I never posted the second painting that matched the cow painting! Here you go!

It’s a new month – let’s see if I can blog a little more often. I really feel the need!

Okay, this next piece was a name change {just in case you are following the list.} Same client, but there was a need for a different name!

Pineapple Blue Bedding from Polka Tot Designs

The bedding is from Polka Tot Designs. Because I know I’m going to have a few people wanting the specifics on this one!

The brown is a chocolate brown, but the fabric catches the light and changes the color a little.

This is one of those times I got a request to mix funky with classic. Have I ever told you all how much I love to do that?!? Well, I do. Love it. And a challenge for an equal balance of the two is my kinda challenge!!

I know you are going to find this hard to believe, but I’m exhausted! Due to 3 boys getting a haircut after school, I missed my 15 minute nap today – haha!!! Me and my imaginary baby{s} need some sleep!

I actually had an art post planned – since I am still painting even though I’m not blogging {consistently.} But as I’m hiding out, I thought today might be a good day for real life. I know you like to hear some of these stories – like the time the garbage disposal attacked me or Lawson wrote out the word “sh*t” on the magna-doodle or how I like to fold up like a taco and sleep while my husband takes secret pictures of me. I think it is nice to know how crazy it is for others – makes it comforting for each of you to see the ridiculousness that we all call life.

This week has been one strange week for me. I’ve just felt yucky. For about 2 weeks, I’ve laid on the couch and slept for about 15 to 30 minutes everyday after I picked Hudson up from school. The assumption is that this school schedule is kicking my butt. Then I started feeling nauseated. BUT I do take a medication that is known to make me feel this way. Then it happened – I was late. No need to go into details – after 4 kids . . . you know the feeling. There were so many other symptoms and after going 16 weeks and NOT knowing you were pregnant with twins, you vow to always know your body!!

Let me state 2 facts to you all – since having Em, I’m never late. And the small {very important fact} that my husband has had a vasectomy.

I tried hard not to think about it. But finally, I did mention it to my husband. “Lonnie, I’m late.”

“huh?”

“Yes, I’m late. And I’m slightly concerned.”

And I’m not kidding when I say that the next words out of his mouth were, “I think it’s a girl.”

“Me, too! If it’s going to happen to us, it will have to be a girl – because we do have the extra bed in Em’s room! But if it is a boy, I guess we can get a 2 sets of bunk beds in the boy’s room.”

“Yeah, but it is probably a girl. I still like the name Hadley.”

“I do, too. But I don’t want another “H” name. I’m liking the name Brooksley. Emsley & Brooksley – that has a great sound to it! I never once thought of a boy name when we were pregs with Em, so it can’t be a boy or we are in trouble.”

“Yeah, three boy names is our limit. But I’m not really feeling the Brooksley. More and likely we are having twins anyways.”

“Are we having a real conversation about having a baby and what we are going to name her/them?”

“Yep, because if it is going to happen, it will happen to us.”

The conversation went on for about 20 or so minutes as we talked about other names, the chance of multiples again and how we will practice abstinence from now on! It was ridiculous! We were having a real convo about having another kid(s)! We agreed we were done after we got pregnant with Emsley! And we have said we were done – and meant it – over and over the past 4 years! Yet, we both just accepted it instantly! We have no idea where we would put another body or how we would pay for another mouth to feed, but we knew that this child would not be loved any less than the other 4. The thing is, I have a plan next year – the boys will all be in school and I was going to put Em in pre-K all day instead of the 4 hours she is currently enrolled in. I will have a real day to WORK! And because of that plan – I knew I had to be pregnant. The times I’ve ever had a “real” plan – a big plan, I know God busts out laughing at me! And shows me who is boss!

We were out of our minds! And we were not pregnant either. I was just late. And although we were totally okay with another kid, I wasn’t disappointed when I realized I wasn’t pregnant, but relieved. The thought of being pregnant again and having to nurse a baby for a year, just doesn’t sound like anything I want to tackle right now. And I can’t be more happier that God is letting me have the hope that my plan next year just might work!

And a little sneaky peeky for your viewing pleasure!

See the doll house on the other side of the bed? Em and Carson are currently having a BIG time playing! I can’t believe you can’t see the big mess on that side! It is HUGE! For those who don’t remember the room before . . .

I did strip off the tops of her dresser & night stand and stained them. I love the overall look, but it is far from perfect and that bugs the crap out of me. Staining is not for me, unless it is going on top of paint!

I debated on keeping the hardware the brass or painting it. You see what I decided to do. And I’m glad I did!

You can see I moved the framed day gowns to this side of the room. I also had the little ottoman reupholstered in the same drape fabric.

I have another ottoman that is just like this one, except it has different legs and it was recovered to match the rocker that was in Em’s nursery. I’m really thinking of having it covered to match this one. How cute will they look at the foot of each bed?!? Only, there is not a ton of room at the foot of the bed – in this room. ha! Em does use this one to get in and out of her bed.

It is hard to tell in the before picture, but we attached the headboards to plain metal frames and stored the old frames/foot boards. I was so afraid that one of the kids where going to break off a post on one of the foot boards. We also raised the headboard so that you could see more of it when pillows are on the bed.

I’ve changed out the art above the night stand I don’t know how many times! But I love this painting, so it is staying – and I will coordinate with it for her name paintings which I intend to either frame or have a slightly bigger frame hugging the art that will be similar to this one.

Now – it is time to work on the bedding! I intend to keep the quilts. But I want to add skirts – in a silk that I hope is plaid and have all the colors that window treatments have. Fortunately, I found exactly what I was wanting and was ready to order it! But that changed quickly when I decided to look at the price tag – it was $50+ a yard. {I about died.} Now, I’m not going to lie to you, when I find something as perfect to a match as that silk fabric, I would buy it without thinking about it – because it was just that perfect. But when I saw that $58 price tag, I heard God whisper in my ear, “My child, please don’t be stupid.” So, I stepped away and am hoping I will find something comparable for a third of the price.

If anyone out there knows where I can find some {preferably} silk – that is plaid and has a ton of colors – at a reasonable price, please let a girl know!

Currently, “Granny” {which is Lonnie’s mom,} is here and playing with the kids outside. So, I thought this might be a prime time to hop on here!!! But, I do have a funny to tell . . .

Lawson and I get about an hour or so by ourselves during the week between picking him up from pre-K and Carson & Emsley from Pre-K. I was explaining to him how the “year you were born” works in relation to your age and the current year. Although he can’t get all his thoughts out, there is not a single bit of info that doesn’t go in that he doesn’t absorb. I gave him the example of his birth year of 2006 and how he will be 5 this year in 2011. Then I gave him the example of Lonnie’s birthday and how he is just OLD and 40.

Now let me break away from the story to tell you the side tale – my kids think I’m 29. Oh, yes they do. For a few years, they thought I was 25 – and I say “they,” really it has always been Hudson. But finally, I told him the truth . . . that I was 29. I just didn’t tell him that it was a few years ago. Basically, they think I’m 29 and no matter what, I will always be 29 because my birthdays don’t really age me anymore! {haha!}

Back to the current story . . . Well, I told Lawson that my birth year was 1978. After thinking about it for about 4 seconds {seriously,} he says, “You are 33 years old. . . 29 years old {cue funny look} uhmm, 33 years old?”

“Yes, Lawson. I’m actually 33. But don’t tell anyone. It has to be our secret!” haha!

I swear, it is the technicalities that screw it up with the autistic kids. Can’t get anything by them for long. I must remember to NOT tell Hudson what year I was born because I’m sure he will figure out just as fast as Lawson!

On to today’s art!

The bedding that goes to this one is all kinds of crazy tie dye and peace signs. It is also the “new” big girl room – big girl as in going to the first grade, past the mini-big girl room where you are getting out of the crib! This momma picked out the dots and asked for a few peace signs. Instead, I just gave her one really cool peace sign!

Beads! That are hand sewn, glued and sealed on. These jokers aren’t going anywhere!

If you’re lucky, I’ll post tomorrow!

Most people lose weight when they hit that 3 year old marker – instead, he seems to have gained it! He is so swollen he doesn’t look recognizable. If it wasn’t for that crooked smile, I wouldn’t even think he was the same kid. And he is more swollen today. His eyes are like slits and he is so uncomfortable. I have to tell you all that this consumes me. It invades my thoughts constantly. If you want to know exactly what is nephrotic syndrome, this is the BEST explanation I’ve ever found about it. Fortunately, he is “suppose” to grow out of it. We are just waiting till then.

I guess I need to keep painting while I wait!

I finally got a request to paint to match this bedding! I’ve known a couple of people who have purchased this set, but the colors matched the previous nursery – so I’ve never gotten to paint anything for it!

I have to thank a friend, Rachel, for loaning me a piece of this bedding for matching purposes. I wanted to add the blue, but I couldn’t get a good look at it. And the only larger photos {such as the pillow above} did not show all the colors.

Another one marked off the list!

This has definitely become a popular design. Which is good – because I love it!

Seriously, I love these next pictures!!!

I actually have several pictures like these! I need to post them in a post.

This is the first year that all 4 kids were going to be in school. And no joke, I’ve been getting ready for school for the past several weeks! I think last year I made a comment about this, but school shoe shopping is the worst form of shopping ever. I was smart this year and took each kid shopping individually. I can handle a lot – but those shoes . . . ugh, just know that it usually gets ugly. But hey, if all 4 kids are going to school, it is a small price to pay!

I also tried to get Hudson into a different school this year. That consumed so much time and then it didn’t work out. I hate when my time is busted like that, but now I know that it wasn’t suppose to work out and I’m not left wondering if it was. And although this year started out very questionable, it seems to be smoothing out somewhat. I requested academic testing on Hudson. Since they do this testing every 3 years, he isn’t due for it till the end of this school year. Because Hudson does not have a diagnosis – by my choice – this might have been a bad request {for the testing to be done now} on my part. He is in the program because his speech was non-existant when he started – so we have been riding this train on that delay. Well, Hudson now has no problems with speech. Meaning there is no delay in that area. There are other issues {obviously} but I’m afraid for him to keep getting the extra he gets at school to continue, he will have to get that formal diagnosis. I mean, no matter what – they were going to find out about his speech in May anyways. He really needs these tests now so we can see how much that brain really knows!

So, guys – this might be it. I’ll finally know for sure. He has to keep getting the extra at school. If he doesn’t have a “developmental delay” or a “diagnosis,” he will be expected to do what all the other first graders do. Which in turn will cause boredom and then I’m quite positive will lead into behavior issues. Yep, pretty sure I might have some problems in my future.

Now you know where I have been. Busy.

But I’ve knocked out some paintings!! I’ve said this before, but I almost always post pictures of art on facebook first because it is quick. If you’ve not seen me here, pretty sure I’ve been there!

Let me just get to the point . . .

And because this client is awesome . . .

. . . She has already sent me pictures! I love this picture!!

The nursery for this canvas is right next to awesome! The house is a remodeled barn. I’m dying to see it all. I was told they even reused a lot of the barn doors!!! Yes, dying!

Check out all the angles! Is this not fantastic!? Okay, so 3 walls are the lighter blue – Martha Stewart’s Faded Ink {at Home Depot} and the one focal wall is Martha Stewart’s Azurite {also at your local Home Depot!}

I matched it up on the lower portion of the painting . . .

The bedding, I’m sure, looks familiar! It is the Madras Collection from our friends at Pottery Barn Kids.

If we are lucky we will see this one on the wall! {hint, hint! Picture, please!}

Off to get started – from scratch – on the next painting!

But they don’t! At all!

Another funny is how this painting also matches Pottery Barn Kids’ Coco Dot Bedding . . .

PBK Coco Dot Bedding

. . . just like the the Brynlee Ann painting from a couple of days ago. Just proof how you can really change the focus easily with art.

The walls in this room are Behr’s Cool Jazz – which is in between the two stripe colors that you see on the canvas.

From now on, you should be able to click the bedding photos and it take you directly to the site of the “company” I’m accidentally promoting. It will not take you directly to the bedding because after being contacted by a certain company – that I link to all the time – I was asked to link to the “bedding” part of the website and not the specific bedding due to the fact that it might be discontinued. Which really does make sense. And they were super nice about it!

I know I keep cutting these posts short, but I’m finishing up another one!! And I really want to love on my kids today!

Have a great weekend!