Sneaky Momma

Well, Girls.......

2009-12-02T12:13:00.000-06:00

It's time for me to take a big break from this blog. I have to shelve the social side of the blogging world for a while. There are way too many irons in my fire. Something's gotta go...

I pray that you all enjoy every single second of the holiday season. I know I will! Well, once we kick round two of the flu, that is. Yes, you heard right, the flu has hit our family AGAIN. It is back with a vengeance. Our oldest is quite sick, though not as sick as she was yesterday. So far she's the only one with it. It's kind of difficult to quarantine a three year old, especially one who spent the whole day yesterday battling a high (104) fever.

Anyways, I hope that you are all happy and well. I will miss you guys! I hope to stop by every now and then and see what you are up to. I just can't be as committed as I once was. To be honest, I feel silly posting stuff and getting comments when I feel like I am not reciprocating as much as I used to.

Come check out my new look over on my tip blog if you'd like. Got a tip request? Let me hear it!

I will also still be doing makeovers. Want a new look for your blog? Come see me!

I could drag this out forever. Why do I feel like I'm breaking up with my blog??????? I'll be back. Someday. Until then, you can find me here or here.

I miss you already! :(

Secret Sneaky Friend

2009-11-30T23:00:00.000-06:00

It's the end of an era......today is the very last Secret Sneaky Friend guest post!

It has been so much fun getting to introduce my readers to one another. I loved sharing you all with my little corner of the blogging world. It's sad to see this feature come to an end. :(

And now, without further adieu.........

Today's Secret Sneaky Friend is............Lauren over at When Happiness Finds You!

Lauren lives in Colorado with her husband and their two small children. She is so incredibly creative! Lauren makes the most beautiful pieces of jewelry that she sells in her shop, Chocolate Silver Designs. I started following Lauren a few months ago, and only recently realized that I knew her in real life. It is wild how this blogging world works! :)

Welcome, Lauren!

What do you want most from blogging? Lauren

I actually asked this question, so I think it could be considered "cheating" if I answered it. Just kidding. Maybe part of me asked this because I don't really know what I want. Before I started working, I blogged because the photo upload was faster than Kodak gallery.

Now, I have realized that blogging gives me back something that I miss. I waited tables and bartended for 10 years before I became a SAHM. Honestly, I loved it. The industry has highs and lows, but it was the easiest job I have ever had. I talked to people for a living. (when I wasn't bringing them food & drinks) I learned so much about life, people, communication, and meeting needs. Blogging has become that for me.

You can only wear one accessory for the rest of your life...which do you choose? Whitney

My diamond earrings. I read SSF every week, and most ladies say wedding ring, but my ring would have to be secondary. I will be the first to admit that I married a man who is challenged in the gift-giving department. However, the Christmas before our wedding, he surprised me with diamond stud earrings from Jared's. He went to Jared's?!?!?! (Come on, you know you love those commercials) I was completely taken aback. I asked him why he bought them for me, and his reply I will never forget. He said he wanted me to have them to wear when he marries me.

Do you have a daily routine with your children or do you pretty much go with the flow? Alicia

When I only had 1 child, I was a go with the flow momma. Now? Not so much. My son (#2) is a military man. He thrives on a schedule, and can get very agitated if I screw with it. I did not create his schedule in any way. He decided on his own at about 5 months that 8pm was his bedtime. Come hell or high water. He starts begging for a bottle at 7:30. It is the craziest thing I have ever seen, but I am not complaining. And since he goes to bed early, my daughter (#1) does too! Can I get an Amen! for some "Me Time"

What is the most unexpected thing that has happened to your blog or yourself during your time spent blogging? Vicky

True Story. I was involved in a Ladies Small Group Bible Study, and we ended up reading 3 books by the same author. I wrote this blog about how much I loved the author and she actually commented on my post! Seriously! I now live in the same city as her family, and I keep a lookout for her at the grocery store.

How did you get into blogging?- Deb

First, my best friend started a blog. Then my sister. It seemed interesting, but I was concerned about the amount of work it would require. So, I started blogging and didn't tell anyone for a few months. My sister finally started snooping around and found it. I made it public and have never looked back.

Are you named after anyone significant or unusual?- Deb

Lauren Bacall.

Are you where you imagined you'd be in high school? If your high school self saw you today, what would she say? Deb

Not even close. I honestly thought I would be living in New York somewhere with 12 roommates auditioning for every theatre role I could. Funny where life takes you. If my high school self saw me today she would scream, " I HAD KIDS??????????" (that makes me laugh)

Who has had the most influence on your life?- CC

It's easily a coin toss between Mom & Dad. I have received wisdom and grace in equal amounts from both of them.

How did you meet your hubby? Elaine

The restaurant he worked at burned to the ground. He came to the restaurant I worked at and applied for a job. (I was a manager) His girlfriend already worked for me, and talked constantly about what an amazing boyfriend he was. She was right. :)

What is your favorite way to relax? septembermom

Sitting alone on my back porch listening to the night.

What kind of humor/comedian makes you laugh?- septembermom

My brothers can repeat lines from every movie they have ever seen. When they get going, it is hilarious. The movie Step Brothers is filthy, but it is the funniest movie I have ever seen.

What was the most embarrassing shopping trip with your kids? Tiffany

Don't really shop. The funniest restaurant story is with my daughter. She was 2 and a half, and we were having lunch with one of my bible study ladies and her 4 year old daughter. My husband owns a restaurant, so when the girls needed to use the restroom, we let them by themselves. A few minutes go by, my friend and I are caught up in our conversation, when she abruptly tells me to turn around. My daughter is shuffling across the main dining room with her pants and underwear around her ankles yelling, "Mom, I need a wipe!" It was awesome.

Thanks so much for being my Secret Sneaky Friend, Lauren! Any parting thoughts? Your parents are always right. Or, at least they were for me. And it makes me want to be better. A better wife, mother, daughter, friend. I want to be the best version of myself. And I hope you all do too. Have a blessed and wonderful holiday season. Relax & enjoy your families. And stop by and visit me from time to time. :)

You can find Lauren over at When Happiness Finds You. When she's not making jewelry, that is!

Secret Sneaky Friend

2009-11-23T23:00:00.004-06:00

My Secret Sneaky Friend for this week is......Elaine over at Matters of the Heart! Today is also her birthday! Happy Birthday, friend! :)

Elaine and her husband stay super busy with their two precious little ones. She is a professional photographer, one who has a true gift of being able to capture the magic of each and every moment. Elaine was one of my very first followers. We became fast friends after discovering that our lives were very similar. She is an amazing person, a true friend.

Welcome, Elaine!

What do you want most from blogging? Lauren
I love that I have a place to write down all those fun stories, about the kids, that I know I will forget someday. I want the kids to have something to look back on and see how we lived life as a family.

You can only wear one accessory for the rest of your life...which do you choose? Whitney
Definitely my wedding ring.

Do you have a daily routine with your children or do you pretty much go with the flow? Alicia
We have a routine but I am flexible also. So some days we just go with the flow.

If you were stranded on an island with your Mother in law what would you do? Robyn
That's a tough one. I would hope we would be stranded with a book, so we could get some reading done.

What is the most unexpected thing that has happened to your blog or yourself during your time spent blogging? Vicky
I had no idea that I had an eye for photography. I knew I liked it, but did not realize that it was something I had a passion for.

How did you get into blogging?- Deb
I was a follower of a few blogs, and thought it was fun, so I jumped on in with both feet.

Are you named after anyone significant or unusual?- Deb
Nope, my mom just liked the name. Dad wanted to name me Jennifer, so glad Mom won.

Are you where you imagined you'd be in high school? If your high school self saw you today, what would she say? Deb
Nope, my life is better than I imagined it would be. God had bigger plans than I ever hoped for. I am so glad I never settled for my desires.

Who has had the most influence on your life?- CC
If we are talking about a physical person it would probably be my Grandmother. I hear her words in my head all of the time. Lessons she taught, have stuck with me.

How did you meet your hubby? Elaine
We met through friends. We had a weekly card night. He says he knew right away he was going to marry me, even told the story on our wedding day.

What is your favorite way to relax? septembermom
Laying down and watching mindless TV.

What kind of humor/comedian makes you laugh?- septembermom
I have no idea... I love to laugh, but if they make fun of something I usually do, I get a great big chuckle.

What was the most embarrassing shopping trip with your kids? Tiffany
Lately all shopping trips are embarrassing.

Are you a talker in the real world?- Miti
I think so, especially if I know you.

What sound do you love? What sound do you hate?- Heidi
I love the sound of my children saying I love you. I hate when they whine for something.

If you could have free plastic surgery - one procedure - which one and why? Heidi
Nursed two kids, the second for longer than I should have, enough said....

You're on death row (naughty, naughty!) and you are getting ready to eat your LAST MEAL. What is it?- Heidi
A homemade bbq hamburger on a fluffy bun with some thick cut french fries and bread pudding no raisins for dessert.

How often do you get a pedicure? - Mama Sewell
Funny, not very often in the past five years, when I was single with no kids all the time. My mama is taking me tomorrow to get a manicure and pedicure, and I am so very excited. As you read this, it will already have happened though.

If your children take naps, how long do they nap for?- Mama Sewell
No more naps for us =(

If you could go back in time and erase one super embarrassing moment, what would it be?- Mama Sewell
I have learned from them all, and they have led me to the person I am today, can honestly say I wouldn't change them, even the real bad one's.

If you made the laws in our country what changes would you make to our justice system regarding crimes against children?-Mama Sewell
Toughest thing one could find.

What is the most surprising part of blogging? Amanda
It has been such a wonderful thing to find a community of women who believe, and share their thoughts and feelings. What a true blessing.

If you could go on a date with one celebrity, who would it be? Kelsey
Of course if I wasn't married, it would be Wentworth Miller, he is so darn cute.

If you got to spend the day with one celebrity, who would it be? Kelsey
Well, he's a celebrity in the photography world, or to me anyway. Scott Kelby, I have learned so much from the books he writes, would love to spend a day on a photo walk with him.

What is your favorite beauty product? Kelsey
Arbonne skin care products. Oh so expensive, but love them.

Thanks so much for being my Secret Sneaky Friend, Elaine! Any parting thoughts?I just have to say that I just love Jill, I can remember all the way back to when we met blogging. Jill you are such a warm and genuine person, and I am so glad our paths crossed while blogging. Funny how you find someone you have lots in common with and bond. Coincidence? I think not...Thanks for having me...

You can find Elaine over at Matters of the Heart and Nut Free Living!Go say hello and don't forget to wish her a Happy Birthday!

Toot, Toot!

2009-11-23T11:44:00.006-06:00

What a great weekend!

My parents offered to keep the girls Friday night. We dropped the girls off and headed to On the Border for dinner. It was nice being able to have an uninterrupted conversation with my husband. :) A shared strawberry margarita, yummy chips and salsa, two great entrees......awesome.

From there we headed to Walmart to get Christmas shopping for the girls finished. We are going to be unbelievably busy starting this week and this was the last weekend that we could do it. A couple of weeks ago, we bought them a train table at Toys R Us, full of trains, bridges, and other fun transportation stuff. Of course, we just couldn't resist buying them a few more cute presents (My Little Ponies, books, dress up clothes, etc.) to wrap for under the tree and to stuff their stockings with. :)

I can't wait to see their faces when they see their train table. They have wanted train stuff for a long time!

I have two more Secret Sneaky Friends left. One of my oldest and dearest blogging friends will appear tomorrow. SSF will be brought to a close next week with an appearance by someone I actually know in real life, but didn't figure it out until just a few weeks ago! Wild how this blogging world works! :)

I hope that you all have a wonderful, SAFE Thanksgiving!

Secret Sneaky Friend

2009-11-18T23:00:00.003-06:00

My Secret Sneaky Friend for today is.......Tess over at Life of a Bipolar Mom!

Tess and her husband live in Texas with their unbelievable adorable daughter Madison. Tess is a stay at home mom who dotes on her girly girl! Visiting her blog is sure to put a smile on your face. :)

Welcome, Tess!

What do you want most from blogging? Lauren
I would like for people to learn that just because I am bipolar, I still live a pretty normal life. Yes I have my highs and lows, but I am still a loving wife and mother and I do what is really in the best interest for my family.

You can only wear one accessory for the rest of your life...which do you choose? Whitney
Like most women who are married it would be my wedding ring. It reminds me everyday that I have a loving and supportive husband who is right there by my side.

Do you have a daily routine with your children or do you pretty much go with the flow? Alicia
Usually on Monday, Thursday and Friday no, unless we are having lunch with daddy. Tuesday and Wednesday yes, because she goes to school for a little social interaction with the other toddlers.

If you were stranded on an island with your Mother in law what would you do? Robyn
Well this question is kind of tricky, about 3 months ago, I would have said "Drown", but now that we are all better I would say "Talk nonstop about Madison and the multiple things she does or learn how to cook a down home meal." Not she is really a good mother-in-law, we just got off on the wrong foot when we did not understand we wanted the same thing - family!

What is the most unexpected thing that has happened to your blog or yourself during your time spent blogging? Vicky
People actually came to it.

How did you get into blogging?- Deb
My husband had a blog, and at first I thought it was his way of just putting his business in the street, well I got hooked reading other blogs and I figured hey I want to put my business in the street too. No really, hubs had one and I thought it was a cool outlet and I wanted to get people aware that not all bipolar people do bad things.

Are you named after anyone significant or unusual?- Deb
Not really sure, but how many other Latessia do you know?

Are you where you imagined you'd be in high school? If your high school self saw you today, what would she say? Deb
No, I was very driven in high school, all about my work and being busy. I just knew I would be working some where high power, but instead I am a stay at home mom, who sometimes find that its not always enough time in my day to workout and loving every minute of it. Beside didn't think I would be married to my prom date either.

Who has had the most influence on your life?- CC
I would say 4 people, hubs - because he is so strong in Christ, Madison - because I live and breath to do right by her, my mom - because she is supportive, grandmother - because she is everything a woman should strive to be.

How did you meet your hubby? Elaine
Funny story, he was the stinky boy on a field trip. I was very out spoken (rude) and I just blurted it out that someone stink it was him. A year later he asked me to the prom because both of our dates stood us up. The crazy part about it, was I didn't know he was the stinky boy and all year long I did not get along with him, plus I talked about his girlfriend because he was the Christian boy who wanted us worldly girls to get right. Well we went to the prom and the rest was history. A year after high school we got married and have been together for 12 years.

What is your favorite way to relax? septembermom
Hang out with hubs and the kid.

What kind of humor/comedian makes you laugh?- septembermom
I don't like the ones who cuss a lot, just can't really get into them, but we have seen some really funny, christian comedian before.

What was the most embarrassing shopping trip with your kids? Tiffany
She just turned one a couple of months ago, so nothing yet! All I know is because she is such a little diva it is coming.

Are you a talker in the real world?- Miti
Once I warm up, I have plenty to say.

What sound do you love? What sound do you hate?- Heidi
The sound I love is my daughter laugh, the sound I hate, is her crying, because then I know something is wrong.

If you could have free plastic surgery - one procedure - which one and why? Heidi
A full body tuck! Ok if I have to pick on part I would say a tummy tuck. I just think I have to much of it. I would like to chop it off and start over.

You're on death row (naughty, naughty!) and you are getting ready to eat your LAST MEAL. What is it?- Heidi
This is funny coming from all the bad press bipolar people tend to get in the news.. but it would be: steak, mashed potatoes and a salad w/ ranch dressing

How often do you get a pedicure? - Mama Sewell
I try to go every two weeks if money allows.

If your children take naps, how long do they nap for?- Mama Sewell
Oh yes my little one is a good napper, she take two a day if she gets up early. Each one can last about 2-3 hours. So mommy gets plenty of rest and lots done, sometimes.

If you could go back in time and erase one super embarrassing moment what would it be?- Mama Sewell
One day when I was at a church retreat, and some girls were being really big jerks towards me because I was the worldly girl who was dating the guy they they knew and loved and the whole time they were a pain in my butt. Well when it came time to share what I learned at the retreat, I went off, talking about the girls and how they were rude and how I didn't care because I am better than that and so on and so on. Major mess! Just wanted to get my point across and I did, but I was at a church retreat for goodness sake. Thank goodness, I have changed.

If you made the laws in our country what changes would you make to our justice system regarding crimes against children?Mama Sewell
That anyone who hurts them in anyway, pays the ultimate price.

What is the most surprising part of blogging? Amanda
That I have people who look forward to reading what I have to say.

If you could go on a date with one celebrity, who would it be? Kelsey
Dr. Oz, I think that what he does on his show is cool and I think how he runs his staff is even better.

If you got to spend the day with one celebrity, who would it be? Kelsey
Pastor Mike Hayes, he's my church pastor. He is not totally famous, but he can be seen on television and heard on christian radio. So famous enough, I have so may question I would love to ask him.

What is your favorite beauty product? Kelsey
Anything Cover Girl

Thanks so much for being my Secret Sneaky Friend, Tess! Any parting thoughts?
I just want to say thank you for letting me put my business in the street for all to read. I am one bipolar chick who strives to be the best at whatever God places in my path. Life for me is not normal, but it is what I make it and I make it good.

You can find Tess over at Life of a Bipolar Mom! Go check her out and make a new friend today!

Secret Sneaky Friend

2009-11-16T23:00:00.005-06:00

My Secret Sneaky Friend for today is.......Mimi over at He & Me + 3!!!!

Mimi lives in Michigan with her husband and three precious children. She is former teacher turned stay at home mom with a love for photography. Mimi is hands down the most active blogger I know. She always has a kind word for everyone (as well as hosts really great giveaways!!!)

Welcome Mimi!

You can only wear one accessory for the rest of your life...which do you choose? Whitney

I am not big on accessories, but I do love having a ring on my left ring finger...so I would say my wedding ring!

Do you have a daily routine with your children or do you pretty much go with the flow? Alicia

We do have a routine...I wake them up around 7:30 each morning & they each have lists that they have to accomplish before walking out of the house for school. There responsibilities are all on those lists & we make sure the house is spotless before walking out of the door by 8:15am. After school is homework & relax time, dinner, reading & bed time routines.

If you were stranded on an island with your Mother in law what would you do? Robyn

I love my MIL, so it would be just fine if we were stranded...we would probably just sit & chat while drinking our Starbucks coffees.

What is the most unexpected thing that has happened to your blog or yourself during your time spent blogging? Vicky

Being able to actually meet some of my blogging friends in real life. They are fabulous!

How did you get into blogging?- Deb

My cousin Tarah started a blog & told me I should start one so we could keep in touch better. At first I thought it would be hard & too much work, but I absolutely love it! I keep up with it daily so my In-laws can read about the kids on a daily basis.

Who has had the most influence on your life?- CC

My parents for sure. They are Pastors. It is awesome being a PK. I remember my dad leading me to the Lord & explaining the significance of communion...I remember being baptized by my dad. My mom taught me about being a servant & putting others first. She has the biggest servants heart. I could go on & on but the one thing that is most important is that they not only taught me about Christ & what it meant to be a Christian, but they lived it in front of me & my brother. They are true examples of Christians & I hope that one day my children will say the same thing about me.

How did you meet your hubby? Elaine

We actually met at a Christian school that we were both teaching at. He was the Athletic Director/PE teacher/Varsity Boys Basketball Coach & I taught Kindergarten & coached Girls Varsity Volleyball & JV Softball...we got to know each other very well because we would "fight" over gym time during Boys Basketball/Girls Volleyball Season. :)

What is your favorite way to relax? septembermom

I love to Scrapbook & enjoy getting away for a few hours to scrapbook with friends. I also enjoy getting pedicures.

What kind of humor/comedian makes you laugh?- septembermom

I love to laugh...but I cannot stand comedians that are vulgar or use profanity. I think you can be hysterical without including either one of those things...when I used to watch TV, I thought Ellen was hysterical.

Are you a talker in the real world?- Miti

From my blog you would think that I was not a talker...but once you get to know me...I AM! I talk way too much.

What sound do you love? What sound do you hate?- Heidi

I love to hear my children laughing, rain falling & my children praying. I hate unnecessary mouth noises.

If you could have free plastic surgery - one procedure - which one and why? Heidi

Liposuction for sure...have you seen my muffin top? Yikes.

You're on death row (naughty, naughty!) and you are getting ready to eat your LAST MEAL. What is it?- Heidi

Anything Mexican with Chips & Salsa on the side. YUM!

How often do you get a pedicure? - Mama Sewell

During Flip Flop season I get one every month & during sock season about every other month

If your children take naps, how long do they nap for?- Mama Sewell

If Stunt Man ever slows down to catch a nap it lasts about 2 hours & that only happens about once a week

What is the most surprising part of blogging? Amanda

The Friendships. Blogging friends are so sweet. Some have sent me presents for no reason at all. I have gotten hats, scarves, gift cards, etc. The kindness in blogland is amazing. I truly am blessed to have met so many wonderful friends.

What is your favorite beauty product?Kelsey

I love my Olay regenerist touch of foundation moisturizer. I love it!

Special thanks to Mimi for being a guest on my blog today! Go say hello to her over at He & Me + 3 and Five Moms and a Blog!

A Little Housekeeping......Among Other Things

2009-11-15T21:03:00.000-06:00

I am going to be putting ads on my tip blog soon. If you have a small, online business and are interested in one month of free advertising (absolutely NO strings attached!) let me know and I will email you with more details. :)
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I'm having a giveaway over on my makeover blog. It ends tomorrow morning at 10:00AM CST, so if you're interested in winning a holiday look for your blog, hop on over and enter ASAP!

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Tennis season ends tomorrow. We couldn't be more excited! Lane will be coming home earlier and have fewer late nights (he helps out at basketball games once a week). It has been a looooooonnnnnnggggg season!!!!!!

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So many of you have asked about my grandfather, I thought I'd give an update. Thank you all so much for your prayers and well-wishes.

My grandfather is doing surprisingly well with his chemotherapy. His only side effect during the first round was tiredness. He starts his second round this week. We are hoping that he continues to feel well with this round as well. He has a cold right now, and I'd be lying if I said we weren't concerned about him getting over it.

I am about a week away from having his quilt finished. Working with my grandmother's clothes brings back so many memories. Her clothes still carry her scent and I stop every now and then, close my eyes, and inhale. Gets me every time. :)

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I created a new look for a friend's photography blog last week. You can check it out by clicking here!

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That's all I got! I hope you all had an absolutely lovely weekend (our weather was GORGEOUS!!) and that you have a wonderful week!!!!!

Secret Sneaky Friend

2009-11-11T23:00:00.003-06:00

My Secret Sneaky Friend today is......Erica over at Scottsville!

Erica is one busy, busy bee! She is the mother of four children who range in age from 10-19. Erica and her brood live in Texas, which makes the perfect backdrop for her work as a photographer. Check out her photography site. BEAUTIFUL!!!

Welcome Erica!

What do you want most from blogging? Lauren
Well, first of all, I love pictures and have always been very anal about putting them IN ALBUMS in DATE ORDER with info written on the back of each and every one. Secondly, I love to write. I've always been a "diary/journal" sort of gal. I document things! So when I found blogging, it seemed so perfect for me. I blog more for "ME" than for anyone else, yet I sooooo enjoy knowing my pictures and stories aren't only being wasted on my eyes. The friends that I've made via the blogworld are awesome and were just an added bonus to my new hobby/addiction!!!

You can only wear one accessory for the rest of your life...which do you choose? Whitney
Hmmm, that's a tough one, but I guess I'd have to pick my silver hoop earrings. They go with just about anything, and I really do ♥ them!!!

Do you have a daily routine with your children or do you pretty much go with the flow? Alicia
I am all about going with the flow --- maybe to the point of fault. I have NEVER been scheduled, my kids NEVER had nap times, and flexibility is my middle name! If something needs to get done, it'll get done when I'm good and ready to do it. If not, it'll be there tomorrow! And in all seriousness - when I was a kid... my mom affectionately nicknamed me the "Bubbly Piddler" because I was almost always happy, but was such a horrible procrastinator!

Are you named after anyone significant or unusual?- Deb
My mom got my name from the evil Erica Kane on All My Children. She thought she was pretty and just liked the name.... Go figure?!

Are you where you imagined you'd be in high school? If your high school self saw you today, what would she say? Deb
Yea, my #1 goal in life was to be a MOM! And I am a mom 4x over! It's truly the best job I've ever had!

What is your favorite way to relax? septembermom
In these cold, winter months, relaxing for me is on the couch under my Snuggy watching Survivor or some other Reality TV show. I know... pathetic, huh? But I also find sitting at the computer (blogging of course) rather relaxing.

What kind of humor/comedian makes you laugh?- septembermom
I love comedy and comedians! Oddly enough, I like David Letterman because he reminds me of my Dad. I "get" his weird, dry humor. =0)

Are you a talker in the real world?- Miti

Uhhh, YES!!! {{Erica waves as she says, "Hi Miti!"}}

What sound do you love? What sound do you hate?- Heidi
I love the sounds of thunder, rain, & my kids' giggles... and I hate, hate, hate their whines.

How often do you get a pedicure? - Mama Sewell
Not nearly often enough, let me tell ya! Anybody want to send me a free one?

If your children take naps, how long do they nap for?- Mama Sewell

Children? Ha! In my dreams. But I love MEEE a good nap! Two hours is GREAT!!! ha ha ha

If you could go on a date with one celebrity, who would it be? Kelsey
Hmmmm, I'd have to say Kirk Cameron. I loved him when he was a 'goofy kid' on Growing Pains, but then I've watched him turn into such a Godly man who has devoted his career to GOD and sacrificed roles in order to do so. He's actually where I got the name "Cameron" from for my 3rd son. I even did a post about him here. Ha ha ha.

Thanks so much for being my Secret Sneaky Friend, Erica! Any parting thoughts?
Well, thank you so much for featuring me, Jill! I love getting to know new bloggers and maybe, just maybe, somebody will pop on over to Scottsville and I'll make a new friend!

You can find Erica over at Scottsville and Five Moms and a Blog! Hop on over and give her a little bloggy love!!!!

Secret Sneaky Friend

2009-11-09T23:00:00.003-06:00

Today's Secret Sneaky Friend is......Courtney over at Courtney and the Boys!!!!!

Courtney and her husband have two young boys. Courtney is a teacher turned stay-at-home mom. Her family is just precious and she is able to capture many candid moments from behind the lens. She does some amazing edits, too!

Welcome, Courtney!!!!

What do you want most from blogging? Lauren

I started blogging in March of 2007 with the sole purpose of capturing the quickly-changing life of my little family. I scrapbook, too, but I needed an outlet that I could actually stay "up-to-date" with and not miss all of the little things. As time went by, I found that I could connect with other women and men in the same season of life as me through their blogs, which has made being a stay-at-home mom much less isolating!

You can only wear one accessory for the rest of your life...which do you choose? Whitney

Without hesitation, my wedding ring! What a precious symbol of my commitment to my husband. :)

Do you have a daily routine with your children or do you pretty much go with the flow? Alicia

Um....a little of both? I have an almost-five-year old and a 2 1/2 year old who both attend preschool 3 and 1 day a week, respectively. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays you'll find me in the carpool lane at a fabulous church preschool minutes from our house. Tuesday mornings are story time at the library, and every other Thursday morning is MOPS. I guess that does sound pretty structured, but we reserve plenty of time to be spontaneous and go to the park, the Children's Museum, a friend's house, or whatever floats our boat that day.

If you were stranded on an island with your Mother in law what would you do? Robyn

Assuming we were on an island with housing and a grocery, I would have her show me the secrets to her cooking....she's the best!

What is the most unexpected thing that has happened to your blog or yourself during your time spent blogging? Vicky

Like I said earlier, I began blogging to document the life of my little family. Along the way, I have "met" some amazing people who I've grown to love. I feel like I have also deepened my relationship with the Lord through prayer for my bloggy friends and their children...what a blessing!

Are you named after anyone significant or unusual?- Deb

My middle name is Lynn, which is the name of my only aunt, my mom's sister. She is one of the most phenomenal people I know. Since I lost my dad 11 years ago and my mom to ovarian cancer 4 1/2 years ago, she has stepped in to be the rock that I need in my life. She has to be the most positive person I know and has a complete love of life, which I adore. I aspire to be like her.

Are you where you imagined you'd be in high school? If your high school self saw you today, what would she say? Deb

Honestly, my high school self had absolutely no idea where I'd be at this point in my life. I had no idea what I wanted with my life career-wise...I ended up being a first grade teacher for 5 1/2 years until I became a stay-at-home mom. I thank God for leading me down that path, because it was definitely my niche during that stage of my life, and I also have no doubt that it helped prepare me for stay-at-home momhood! I have also fallen in love with the most amazing man and been given the gift of two perfect children. I think my high school self would be pretty darn impressed with my current self!

Who has had the most influence on your life?- CC

Undoubtedly, my mom. I became a "mid-life orphan" at the age of 28 and I still miss my parents every day of my life. My mom and I were completely in sync. She "got" me. She accepted me, in spite of my faults. She guided me, nurtured me, and taught me about the Lord. And most importantly, she set the example of how to be a phenomenal mom.

Well, that, and she shared her chocolate with me. :)

How did you meet your hubby? Elaine

Devon and I attended the same small private college. He had already graduated but had come back to visit during Homecoming of my senior year. When we were introduced to each other, he told me where he was living, and it happened to be less than a mile from where my mom lived! After we started talking, I felt like I'd known him forever, and I knew he was "the one."

What is your favorite way to relax? septembermom

A hot bath, a glass of wine, and laying down in my new Sleep Number Bed!!!!

Are you a talker in the real world?- Miti

Yep! I pretty much wear my heart on my sleeve and talk to anyone who'll listen! :)

What sound do you love? What sound do you hate?- Heidi

I love the sound of my mom's wind chimes....sounds like home. I also love the sound of the garage door going up around 5:45 p.m....that means my hubby's home! I pretty much can't stand the alarm clock in the morning.

You're on death row (naughty, naughty!) and you are getting ready to eat your LAST MEAL. What is it?- Heidi

Oh, wow...that's a tough one considering how much I love food. I guess it would be something from my mom's famous collection of recipes like Combination Chili or Sweet and Sour Franks.....and they would definitely have to be made by her!!!!!

How often do you get a pedicure? - Mama Sewell

NEVER!!!! Bleck! I absolutely positively cannot stand feet! And I wouldn't wish my own feet on anyone!

If your children take naps, how long do they nap for?- Mama Sewell

My oldest was notoriously the world's worst napper. The most I could EVER get out of him was an hour, but it was usually less. God sure made up for that with my second, though! Ellis naps for a minimum of two hours a day, but usually hits around three!!!! Hallelujah!!!

If you could go back in time and erase one super embarrassing moment what would it be?- Mama Sewell

That would have to been when I sneezed and tooted at the same time during a high school History class while I was sitting behind a boy who I had a crush on. Doh!

If you got to spend the day with one celebrity, who would it be? Kelsey

Michelle Duggar....I want to know how that lady does it! ha!

What is your favorite beauty product? Kelsey

Smashbox Primer!

Big thanks to Courtney for being a guest on my blog today!
Head on over to Courtney and the Boys and spread a little comment love!

Secret Sneaky Friend

2009-11-05T07:49:00.004-06:00

My Secret Sneaky Friend for this week is.........Vicky over at The Westra World!!!

Vicky is a stay at home mom. She and her husband live in (brrrrr!) Minnesota with their two fun-loving little boys. Vicky is such a supportive presence in the blogging world. Her comments are incredibly sweet and thoughtful. She takes the most amazing photos. You really ought to check them out!!!!

Welcome, Vicky!!!!!!

What do you want most from blogging? Lauren

I want to keep track of the day to day events in our life as they happen. A wise person told me when I first started blogging to define my purpose for blogging and that I would probably need to revisit that purpose from time to time. So true! Because I love the unexpected friendships that have developed, the conversations that ensue, the community that grows. But on an off day (or two!) when commenting is low I always come back to this record I've created of our life that will go forward in time, and I am satisfied... its enough.

What is the most unexpected thing that has happened to your blog or yourself during your time spent blogging? Vicky
So many things! Finding myself again, after exiting that baby tunnel you seem to go into when your children are small and need you so much, and now I'm coming out the other side. I've rediscovered my love of writing and reading, I participate in a great online community that is equally as great as my irl friends, and I'm discovering how much I enjoy photography.

How did you get into blogging?- Deb Somewhat accidentally! I didn't think I could actually figure out how to do it. And my husband warned me to be careful because if I said anything too controversial "bad things could happen." Two days later my blog was marked as spam and locked by blogger! Of course I figured I'd committed a bloggie crime and would go to blogger jail.

Are you named after anyone significant or unusual?- Deb Not really. But I didn't know my full name was Victoria until that fateful first day of first grade. My cousins had teased me about how hard first grade was and I laughed at them. And then the first thing the teacher wanted me to do is find my name on the board and I didn't know it!

Are you where you imagined you'd be in high school? If your high school self saw you today, what would she say? Deb I dreamed of this life in high school! I wish I could tell that high school girl to just chill and relax a bit, because it was all going to turn out better than I had hoped.

How did you meet your hubby? Elaine My husband told me this story the day we were married. He said when his family transferred to our church his mom had seen me standing with my family. We were maybe 5 or 6 years old. She thought I looked exactly like the kind of girl he should someday marry! We knew each other a long time, but didn't date until we were in college. We dated on and off for awhile but he has always said his mother was my biggest champion :)

What is your favorite way to relax? septembermom
In a hot bath tub with a good book :)

What kind of humor/comedian makes you laugh?- septembermom
I love sharp wit! I love people who always have a good comeback or just a humorous way of viewing life.

What sound do you love? What sound do you hate?- Heidi
Love the sound of skates cutting the surface of a clean sheet of ice. Love the crack of thunder and the silence of a blizzard. I hate the sound of snowblowers, snowplows and a shovel scraping concrete in the winter too.

How often do you get a pedicure? - Mama Sewell
Um, yeah, I've never had one :) I don't know why???? I love massages and facials!

What is your favorite beauty product? Kelsey
Okay, don't laugh... Dove soap! Love, love, love, their newest commercial. I have seriously used Dove to wash my face for years and my dermatologist agrees its a keeper!

Thanks so much for being my Secret Sneaky Friend, Vicky! Any parting thoughts?
Thanks Jill, for letting me play along! Its been a blast "Getting Tue know" so many fun bloggers!

You can catch Vicky over at The Westra World!
Head over there and make a new friend today!!!!!

SSF Scheduling

2009-11-03T08:08:00.000-06:00

I am down to a handful of scheduled Secret Sneaky Friend interviews. I have contacted each and every one of the remaining SSFs with details of their upcoming guest post. If you have previously contacted me wishing to be a SSF and have not heard from me, please check your email/spam folder/comments section of your last post. If you did not receive an email from me, please contact me soon (bbsneakymomma-fb at yahoo dot com, or any of my other email addresses) and I will get you on my schedule.

Unfortunately, I am no longer scheduling new guests. All good things must come to an end and it's time to wind this one down. I have had so much fun getting to know all of my blogging friends better and introducing you to one another. I hope you have had as much fun as I have had! :)

My Name is Jill.....

2009-11-02T10:56:00.001-06:00

...and I am one busy gal!

We've had a lot going on in our house these past two weeks. The good first:

Our oldest daughter has been prevacid free for 8 days, symptom free for 4 days!!!!! This is a huge blessing. We're hoping that she continues not to have any problems and that we can kick that nasty stuff once and for all. Be gone reflux!!!!!!

We had a great Halloween. The girls wore their new M&M shirts, with black long sleeved shirts and black pants. They were so cute. I made them M&M trick or treat bags to match.

We had a fun little party for the kids over at my parents' house. Afterwards, we took the kids trick-or-treating around their neighborhood. We went to a lot of houses, and got a lot of candy. The candy that hasn't been devoured was hanging in a white Walmart sack on the front door this morning waiting for Lane to take it to school. I do believe we've had enough!

I've been blessed with a few really fun blog orders lately. I had so much fun working with Steph on this one. She was such an absolute blast to work with! I am currently working on an order for a super sweet gal who paid someone else to work on her blog. Her first designer completely bailed, leaving her with an unfinished blog. No refund, no explanation, nothing. Crazy.

When I am not filling an order, my fingers are quite busy. I am hand-stitching a quilt for my grandfather (Grandaddy) out of my late grandmother's (Monnie's) clothes. It was supposed to be a Christmas present, but................

He isn't doing too well. As a matter of fact, he started his first round of chemo on Wednesday. He's been told that if he does well with chemo that he will have surgery in six months, which may prolong his life for two more years.

One of the side effects of his chemo is that he can't get cold. If he drinks something cold, he gets a feeling like shards of fiberglass going down his throat. His doctor's have told him that he needs to stay warm, too, which is why I'm shifting into high gear to get his quilt finished. Hopefully, it will be done this week.

We are taking his care day by day. He is not totally sold on going through with the treatments. He will live with my parents when going through the really rough days. On those days, I will be checking in on him some, taking him lunch, etc, as my parents are at work. I am so glad that I am in a position to be able help him.

His life story is amazing. I cannot wait to share it with you. He is a REAL Christ follower, one who does amazing things for others for the right reasons 100% of the time. I cannot wait to share his story with you, but right now I just do not have time to do it justice.

So, that's what we are up to. Running around like chickens with our heads cut off! I have big plans for the makeover blog, as well as the tip blog. Don't know how I'm going to get it all done, but I'm sure it will involve neglecting this poor little ol' blog a bit more until things calm down a bit. My next Secret Sneaky Friend is a fun one, a person who has been a great source of support for several blogging friends. Her interview won't be published tomorrow, but it will most likely be published this week. Stay tuned! :)

Secret Sneaky Friend

2009-10-26T23:00:00.001-05:00

My Secret Sneaky Friend for this week is.......Miti over at Pieces of Me!

Miti and her husband are the proud parents of an absolutely adorable little boy. Miti is a stay at home mom, and a crafty one at that! She is a talented cake decorator, as evidenced by the wedding cake she made for her sister not too long ago.

Welcome, Miti!!!!

What do you want most from blogging? Lauren

I started blogging to journal all of those special moments in life, especially as a mom. There's way too many sweet, funny, innocent moments to keep track of; unless, of course, you blog about it. Even then, you don't have to remember it. Memories are now just a click away.

You can only wear one accessory for the rest of your life...which do you choose? Whitney

Well, I'm gonna state the obvious because it is the most important piece of jewelry I own. That would be my wedding ring. After my little boy was born, I wasn't able to wear it for 2yrs because somehow it got too small. Imagine That! I felt so weird not wearing it. It was as if a part of me was missing. So, I said that's it! No more trying to lose this baby fat and I went to get it enlarged. So, now I'm happy to say that I'm never ever gonna take this ring off again. I'll just have to lose circulation in my finger the next time around.

Do you have a daily routine with your children or do you pretty much go with the flow? Alicia

Well, since I'm a stay-at-home mom, I'm able to keep a pretty laid back schedule. We come and go as we please. It's a great perk.

If you were stranded on an island with your Mother in law what would you do? Robyn

Wow, this question makes me wanna cry and smile all at the same time. It's really hard to put into words how much I love her. Every girl dreams of having a Mother-In-Law like mine. She was such a beautiful person, always and I mean ALWAYS, thinking of others before herself. She made me feel like part of the family even before it was official. She was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2007 and passed away within 6 months. Not a day goes by that I don't think of her. She was SO excited about becoming a grandmother. It breaks my heart not having her here. So when I read this question, my eyes begin to water because there's nothing I wouldn't give to be able to spend another day with her. She LOVED to travel, always on the go and I think being stranded on an island with her would have to be one of the best days of my life. I would love to just sit and talk to her about being a mom, about the everyday silly things that my little boy does. I can just hear her giggling with a BIG smile on her face. I miss her SO much!

What is the most unexpected thing that has happened to your blog or yourself during your time spent blogging? Vicky
Like many bloggers out there, I've gotten to know some really amazing people from all walks of life. They've become my friends. I know some may think that's just bizarre, but really it's not. When you write about everything that's going on in your life, your good days and your bad and they respond with words of encouragement then that's when strangers become friends. That is why I call my followers my Penless Pen Pals. I never thought I would consider someone I've never met a friend, but now I do. I've gotten to meet a few face to face as well.

How did you get into blogging?- Deb

One day I just got my laptop and started exploring. That's when I stumbled upon Blogger. I checked it out and thought, "hey that sounds like fun." And here I am today, being sneaky and getting ready to celebrate my blogoversary in 11 days. Did I mention I'm having a giveaway?

Are you named after anyone significant or unusual?- Deb

My parents got this crazy idea to name me not after just one person but three, my three older sisters. The idea was to use the first two letters of their names to make mine. But, THANKFULLY, they didn't follow through with it. My name would have been Dajoan (Da-ju-on).

Are you where you imagined you'd be in high school? If your high school self saw you today, what would she say? Deb

When I was in high school, I thought that I'd have a fancy job working in a big city; but, here I am, living in the country, married to the most amazing guy in the world. Oh, and to top it off, there's a really cute, little guy calling me mommy every 5 seconds. And I couldn't be happier. So, although I'm not where I thought I'd be, I'm right where I wanna be. My high school self would be very proud.

Who has had the most influence on your life?- CC

Anybody that was raised by two amazing people would have to say their parents. My parents made me who I am. Their whole parenthood has been full of sacrifices for my four sisters and I. They literally gave up their whole lives in Costa Rica for us. I don't know what I would do without them.

How did you meet your hubby? Elaine

It was a blind date set up by some of our best friends. It actually was the first REAL date I had ever went on. I never dated in high school and so I was a bit nervous but I knew that he had to be a pretty cool guy if my friends liked him. So, I said yeah, "I'll go out with him." We all went to a movie and dinner. I've been smitten ever since. I'm still amazed that I got it right the first time around.

What kind of humor/comedian makes you laugh?- septembermom

I love Ellen DeGeneres. She's got such a great personality.

What was the most embarrassing shopping trip with your kids? Tiffany

Man, I think I'd be here ALL day if I started talking about embarrassing shopping trips. That's life with a toddler, I guess.

Are you a talker in the real world?- Miti

Yay, this is my question! Well I think I'll answer this one since I like to talk to myself every now and then. I asked this question because I, for one, am not a talker in real life, that is unless you're one of my really good friends. When you first meet me, I'm pretty quite but the more I get to know you, then the more I talk. I feel like I can be more open when I write in my blog or at the Five Moms and a Blog. So, what you see there is what you'd probably get from me if you were one of my really good IRL friends.

What sound do you love? What sound do you hate?- Heidi

I don't like rain at all, but I LOVE the sound of it when it's time to go night-night. Did I just say "night-night"? Man, that's way too much mommy talk. Which brings me to more lovely sounds, like my little boy giggling or singing his little head off. He LOVES to sing. Sounds I hate? Temper Tantrums, first and foremost! Cursing! Crying. My dog barking nonstop in the middle of the night for no apparent reason.

If you could have free plastic surgery - one procedure - which one and why? Heidi

I've got just three words for ya Heidi - LASER HAIR REMOVAL. It's not my fault I'm Latina.

How often do you get a pedicure? - Mama Sewell

I've never had one. I'd rather spend my money getting new clothes or shoes and just doing my own nails, BUT that doesn't mean I WOULD turn it down either.

If your children take naps, how long do they nap for?- Mama Sewell

It depends on how long the drive is. Then once we get there, I'm stuck in the car FOREVER, cause if I know what's good for me, then I BETTER NOT wake him up.

What is the most surprising part of blogging? Amanda

Several months ago, I was invited to be part of a group blog. Seriously?!! They want ME out of all the bloggers out there?!! I really was surprised! I couldn't believe that they wanted me to be part of it. So, together with Mimi, Erica, Nan and Tarah we started Five Moms and a Blog. It was (and still is) an honor to be associated with such amazing women! I'm having so much fun with it!

If you could go on a date with one celebrity, who would it be? Kelsey

Well, since my husband IS the only guy I've ever dated then I'll just stick to that. Besides, there's no one in the world I'd rather go on a date with than him. But it might be fun to go on a PLAY-date with some celebrity mommies like Jennifer Gardner or Sarah Jessica Parker.

Thanks so much for being my Secret Sneaky Friend, Miti! Any parting thoughts?

Ahhh Man! It's over?!! Just like that?!! I was having so much fun. Oh well, I guess all good things must come to an end. Thanks again Jill! (And sorry if I put anybody to sleep.)

You can catch Miti over at Pieces of Me and Five Moms and a Blog! Check her out. You'll be glad you did!!!! :)

Secret Sneaky Friend

2009-10-21T23:00:00.002-05:00

My Secret Sneaky Friend for today is.......Camily over at La*Teed*Ah!

Camily lives in Texas with her husband, Mike. Together they have two adorable little ones, a boy and a girl. Camily is a very talented professional photographer. I was so blessed to have won a photo session with her not too long ago. The photo of the girls in my sidebar was taken by her. She is amazing! I am happy to call Camily an IRL friend! :)

Welcome, Camily!

What do you want most from blogging? Lauren

Hmmmm. I love blogging, and have finally decided I'm ok with blogging as frequently or infrequently (like I've done this month) as I want. For a while there, I felt like there was pressure to blog all the time and it took the fun away from it. But now that I've let that go, I'm loving it again. So, back to the question. I love that I can share the little day to day memories with my family, especially those that are out of town. And I love looking back on old posts and seeing memories I'd forgotten about. So I guess I'm a selfish blogger!

You can only wear one accessory for the rest of your life...which do you choose? Whitney

OK, obviously it's my wedding ring. But I also have this necklace that I wear all the time that has two little charms on it with my kids' names engraved on each one. I love that necklace. Love it!

Do you have a daily routine with your children or do you pretty much go with the flow? Alicia

Oh, I'm the master of routine! Ha! I'd like to say that we stick to our routine, but there's a lot of go-with-the flow mixed into that routine. I mean, with kids, how can you not go with the flow?

If you were stranded on an island with your Mother in law what would you do? Robyn

Build a life raft and get off that island! My mother and law and I get along fairly well, but we are both strong-minded, independent women with definite opinions on how things should be done, and we don't always agree. OK, usually we don't agree. As my dad says, in our tribe, we're all chiefs and no indians (but at least we recognize this about ourselves, right)?

How did you get into blogging?- Deb

My friend, Andrea, started a blog after the birth of her first son, who has CMS, a rare neurological disorder. I loved reading her blog, and it was the first thing I'd look at when I signed onto the computer. One day, she said "Girl, you need a blog. I'll help you." And she did! She knew I'd love it.

Are you named after anyone significant or unusual?- Deb

I get this question a lot. My name is Camily (pronounced like "family"). My dad made my name up when they couldn't think of anything they loved. He said it was an inspiration. My middle name (Michelle), is also my mom's middle name, and I carried on the tradition with my daughter.

Are you where you imagined you'd be in high school? If your high school self saw you today, what would she say? Deb

I'm pretty much where I thought I would be, I think. My high school self would say "OK, time to get in the gym!" I also thought I would have married earlier and had children at a younger age. Mike and I got married when I was 30, and had our son when I was 32 and daughter at 35. But I wouldn't change a thing (other than those extra pounds)!

Who has had the most influence on your life?- CC

My parents. No question. They taught me that I could do anything I wanted to do if I worked hard enough. They have always guided and supported me and taught me how to make my own decisions. No matter what, I know that they believe in me and will support me in all that I do. What a great gift to give your children.

How did you meet your hubby? Elaine

Oh gosh. I was sick of dating! One night a friend called and wanted me to go play pool and hang out at The Fox & The Hound (sports bar). I was so sick of it all. She really wanted me to go, so I gave in and went, but I just had on jeans and a t-shirt, didn't fix my make up or do anything special. I saw Mike at the table next to ours and thought he was so cute and I just kept thinking that he looked like the nicest guy. He didn't seem to notice me, so finally I went over to him and started talking. I ended up inviting him to the Cowboys game the next day and we've been together ever since. And he IS the nicest guy!

What is your favorite way to relax? septembermom

In a world where money is no object, I would spend a day at the spa--mani/pedi and massage. But in reality, I'll settle for a clean kitchen, warm bath, and a reality tv show without interruptions!

What kind of humor/comedian makes you laugh?- septembermom

I love to laugh! My son is hilarious and he makes me laugh a lot. I loved Sienfeld, but I'll admit to even laughing at the crude jokes on the HBO specials.

What was the most embarrassing shopping trip with your kids? Tiffany

Holy Moly. Lots of our shopping trips are embarrassing and I generally feel like all of the employees in the store are happy when we leave, but one trip stands out in particular. In fact, I blogged about this when it happened. That would have to be the shopping trip to Walmart (and I really don't even like Walmart) when Matthew was 3 and he'd just accomplished potty training recently. Until that fateful day when he got diarrhea at Walmart. Oh yes. And we were all the way on the other side of the store away from the bathroom. We abandoned our cart and go running--sprinting--through the store to try to make it to the bathroom. We get there and Matthew didn't quite make it. I got him cleaned up and we went back across the store to retrieve our cart so that we could just leave. When it happened again. We RUN back to the bathroom. It was closed for cleaning. Matthew was trying SO hard to make it. The cleaning lady said "I'm sorry, but you'll have to wait." I told her she was about to have a lot bigger mess to clean up than the bathroom. She let us in and It was not pretty. I left that day without groceries. It was a long time before I went back to that Walmart!

Are you a talker in the real world?- Miti

Yep! Love to talk!

What sound do you love? What sound do you hate?- Heidi

Love the sound of my children laughing, rain, a creek in the mountains, the ocean. Hate fingernails on a chalkboard and arguing.

If you could have free plastic surgery - one procedure - which one and why? Heidi

Ask me again in 10 years. I'm not ready for that yet.

You're on death row (naughty, naughty!) and you are getting ready to eat your LAST MEAL. What is it?- Heidi

Mexican food. Either fajitas or enchiladas, chips and queso and margaritas!

How often do you get a pedicure? - Mama Sewell

When it's flip-flop season, every 3-4 weeks. When it's cold, who knows?

If your children take naps, how long do they nap for?- Mama Sewell

Matthew is 5 and rarely naps, but when he does, it's for 2 hours. Molly is 2 and will generally nap for an hour and a half.

If you could go back in time and erase one super embarrassing moment what would it be?- Mama Sewell

I don't think I'd erase anything. Even the Walmart Diarrhea story will make a great story later.

If you made the laws in our country what changes would you make to our justice system regarding crimes against children?-Mama Sewell

I don't have a problem with torturing or public execution when it comes to crimes against children. And I'm not kidding.

If you could go on a date with one celebrity, who would it be? Kelsey

I like my husband--so I don't think I'd want to go on a date, but I wouldn't mind having dinner with the cast of Twilight, The Office, Sienfeld, or Lost. I guess that would be four different dinners. And I'd want to invite friends. And not cook. Or clean. So definitely at a restaurant.

What is your favorite beauty product? Kelsey

I LOVE all of my face-washing products. LOVE them. I use the RE-9 Anti-Aging set from Arbonne. It's expensive, but I can see a huge difference in my skin since I've been using it. I'd sacrifice eating out for a while to pay for it.

Thanks so much for being my Secret Sneaky Friend, Camily! Any parting thoughts?

This was so much fun, Jill! Thanks for having me of SSF!
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You can catch Camily over at La*Teed*Ah! Go check her out and make a new friend!

FFF

2009-10-16T12:10:00.000-05:00

Thank you all so much for the prayers and well-wishes. Lane returned back to work on Wednesday with a slight cough. Our oldest still feels pretty yucky, the little one is still incredibly fussy (what's new?) but seems to be on the mend. No fever since Monday, which is a true blessing. I think we caught it really early, and thus were able to treat it before it got bad.

I managed to avoid it for the most part. I ran a slight fever on Wednesday, accompanied by a headache and tiredness for a few hours. That's it. Thank you, Tamiflu! :)

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On a different note, I've decided that I only want one thing for Christmas. I've heard it's for sale:

Okay, maybe that's a little out of our price range. I'd settle for this:

This is a bit out of our price range, too, but that won't stop me from asking Santa for cash to save up for it. :)

That's all I got. Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Secret Sneaky Friend

2009-10-12T23:00:00.001-05:00

My Secret Sneaky Friend for this week is........Kelli over at Random Thoughts of a Supermom!

Kelli and her husband, Jason, live in Mississippi with their three young boys. She is an ace in the kitchen, often sharing recipes on her blog. Kelli is so creative! She is always posting simple instructions on how to do adorable craft projects. What a gal!

Welcome, Kelli!

What do you want most from blogging?

I think I mostly just want to have a little bit of adult interaction! When you spend the majority of your days at home with little kids, it is nice to have adult conversations {even if they are through email}. I am also amazed at the encouragement and inspiration that I have found out in the blogosphere! There are so many wonderful women sharing a ton of amazing things...and I feel really blessed to have found some great women {and moms} to read about and learn from!

You can only wear one accessory for the rest of your life...which do you choose?
I would have to say my engagement and wedding rings....though recently I have only been able to wear my wedding ring because my hands have been SUPER swollen from my RA. That makes me sad too....because I love my engagement ring!

Do you have a daily routine with your children or do you pretty much go with the flow?
I am definitely a routine kind of person. We are just getting into a new routine this year because my oldest son Henry started Kindergarten this year. Our normal day starts at around 6:30 am. I get the boys up and they get dressed. Then we head to Henry's school for drop off, then over to Grant's preschool to wait 30 minutes until time to drop him off. Then Eli and I head back home to do laundry and dishes {which never seem to end at my house!}. We go back to get Grant at 11. Then it is lunch time and naptime. I usually have to wake up Grant and Eli so that we can go pick up Henry, then it is home to do homework and play in the yard until Jason gets home. Dinner is usually around 6 except on Wednesdays {church} and Thursdays {soccer practice}. After dinner, Jason gives the boys a bath and puts them to bed! After the boys are asleep Jason and I usually watch Jeopardy and whatever show happened to be recorded on the DVR.

If you were stranded on an island with your Mother in law what would you do?
Work diligently on a plan to get us rescued!

What is the most unexpected thing that has happened to your blog or yourself during your time spent blogging?
I am constantly amazed that their are some many moms out there who can relate to all the stuff that I am going through! I can't tell how many times I have gotten comments or emails from people saying they have been through some of the same stuff that I am dealing with....and I love to read a blog and relate to someone that well! It is nice to have someone to share the fun stuff with, but also to commiserate about the not so good stuff with too!

How did you get into blogging?
About a year and a half ago, a local family found out they were expecting quadruplets and the mom started a blog. I read her blog and then clicked my way around blog land and found some great stuff to read. After a few weeks, I decided I wanted to join in on the fun. So I started blogging about my everyday life and about all the fun crafty stuff that I love to do.

Are you named after anyone significant or unusual?
My middle name is after one of my mother's cousins who died as a teenager. My mom said that when she named me Kelli everybody thought she had named me after some character on a soap opera....but she swears that's not where she got the name.

Are you where you imagined you'd be in high school? If your high school self saw you today, what would she say?
I think so...considering that I am married to my high school sweetheart and we live in the town we grew up in! I think in high school I thought I would live away for longer than just college...but it is nice to be near family....especially when you have three little kiddos that need babysitting!

Who has had the most influence on your life?
My parents and grandparents have been very influential in my life. But, I would have to say that my husband has probably had the most influence on my life...mainly because we have been and are planning our lives together, so his decisions are mine too.

How did you meet your hubby?
We went to high school together and had a ton of classes together throughout high school. Jason and I actually played soccer together on a {very sad} coed soccer team during our Junior year of high school. We starting dating in January of our senior year and then went to different colleges in August of that year. We dated for 4 years long distance and got married a month after I graduated.

What is your favorite way to relax?
SLEEP!

What kind of humor/comedian makes you laugh?
I LOVE sitcoms! Friends and Seinfeld are my absolute favorite things to watch...and they still make me laugh even if I have seen the episode a million times!

What was the most embarrassing shopping trip with your kids?
I can't think of any specific trip...but I have had a few that involved poop and/or vomit, as well as lots of tantrums and meltdowns!

Are you a talker in the real world?
I am a big talker...if I know you and I am comfortable in the situation. I think I am a little stand-offish in new situations, so someone who meets me for the first time may not think I am much of a talker, but I am.

What sound do you love? What sound do you hate?
I love the sound of naptime {QUIET}! I hate the sound of metal being scratched, and I'm not particularly fond of my alarm clock either!

If you could have free plastic surgery - one procedure - which one and why?
Tummy tuck!! And I am so serious about this one...in a few years I may consider this even if it isn't free! I have a ton of 'baby' weight to lose, but it doesn't matter how much you lose that little baby belly isn't going anywhere!

You're on death row (naughty, naughty!) and you are getting ready to eat your LAST MEAL. What is it?
Mexican food! And then a HUGE tub of Marble Slab peanut butter ice cream for dessert!

How often do you get a pedicure?
I used to swear I would never get a pedicure because I HATE for people to touch my feet. During my last pregnancy I finally broke down and gave it a try. It wasn't so bad, and I really liked having pretty toes. I probably average one pedicure every three to four months...and I am in desperate need of one right now!

If your children take naps, how long do they nap for?
On a good day, Grant and Eli will nap for a little more than 2 hours. Just enough time for me to get the toys picked up and sit on couch for a little rest myself!

What is the most surprising part of blogging?
I think the most surprising thing to me is that other people want to read about my {relatively} boring life. I don't think that anything SUPER exciting ever seems to happen to me...but people still follow my blog and read about my oh so normal life!

Thanks so much for being my Secret Sneaky Friend, Kelli! Any parting thoughts?
I just want to say THANKS to Jill for letting me join in on all the Secret Sneaky fun!

You can find Kelli over at Random Thoughts of a Supermom! Head on over there and learn how to make this....or this (YUM!)

Hiney Update

2009-10-12T16:06:00.000-05:00

We're back from the pediatrician. Our whole family is now on Tamiflu. The girls weren't tested, but exhibit all of the symptoms except for high fever. The pediatrician told me that she feels strongly that it is H1N1 (hiney!) and should be cared for as such.

Now that we know that the girls have the same thing as their daddy, I have moved to the back of the house in the hopes that I can avoid it. So far, so good. I start on Tamiflu tonight, as I fall into the high risk category. Lane feels a lot better (says it's the easiest run of the flu he's ever had), but now has to take care of the girls all by himself. Poor guy!

I just hope the girls have as easy of a time with it as their daddy did. :)

Woe Be GONE!

2009-10-11T21:40:00.001-05:00

You guys are so sweet! I feel so much better now. I just couldn't let that last post remain at the top any longer. What a downer!

The girls took a wonderfully long nap today that gave me just enough time to chill out and dig myself out of my woe-is-me pit. I appreciate each and every comment. It's amazing what positive support from my blogging friends can do to help turn it all around. Thank you!

Both girls had a fever when they woke from their nap, which has since subsided. They complain of body aches and headaches, as well as other, yucky signs of the hiney (literally!) flu. I'm pretty sure they have it, but am at peace about it for now. Thank you all for your prayers. I really appreciate them.

Think I can convince Lane that HE needs to take care of the girls and I need to be the one that is quarantined since I am the only one who doesn't have this stuff yet? Hmmmm......not a bad idea at all! :)

Oink Oink

2009-10-11T15:53:00.001-05:00

Warning: This is a stressful, get-it-all-out-so-I-don't-explode! post.

Lane started feeling better Friday morning. He felt great all that day and all day Saturday. Last night at about 4:30am, he woke up with chills and a fever. First thing this morning, he went to an urgent care center. A test confirmed that he has the flu. They did not test for H1N1 (does anyone else look at this combination of letters and numbers and think 'hiney' or is it just me?) because apparently all strains that have been tested in our area are coming back H1N1, so it's pointless to even test. Instead they treated him as if he has it. To the tune of $150.

Guess who just used the overdraft protection on their checking account? Guess who's figured out that the bank is closed tomorrow and there is no way to remedy the situation? Thank goodness that checks still take a couple of days to clear or else we'd be in big trouble.

Anyways...

Our youngest woke up this morning with a cough and our oldest is irritable and keeps getting that 'I'm sick' look in her eyes. A quick call to our pediatrician was returned with a recommendation to give nebulizer treatments to the little one every four hours along with an appointment for both girls to be seen tomorrow morning. I hope they go ahead and test the girls for H1N1. Just so we know, you know?

I have an appointment with my doctor in the afternoon. I have diabetes (yep), a heart defect (yep) and severe asthma (yep), so I'm hoping they'll go ahead and give me a prescription for tamiflu to try to prevent it, if in fact that's what 'it' is.

I am trying hard not to be worried or irritated that our family is having to deal with this. I'm trying not to be intimidated by this virus. I'm trying not to think about how much this little blip is going to cost our family.

I'm not being very successful.

Anyone out there who has had the swine flu in your house? Care to share your experience? :)

FFF

2009-10-08T23:04:00.002-05:00

Is it me or are the days just zooming by? It's crazy! I cannot believe that our hundred degree days are gone and that crunchy leaves are just around the corner. I am super excited about taking the girls to a pumpkin patch again this year and all the fall activities we have planned for the next couple of months.

We took the plunge and put the girls in the same room to sleep. We're still working the kinks out, but it seems to be a great arrangement for everyone. We'll see how it goes. :)

My husband came home tonight with a low grade fever and a sudden onset of the blahs. Great. Sounds like a fun weekend at our house.

Professionally, I did my first columns-below-the-post layout this week. I love learning new things. I was so excited to be able to deliver the look that my friend, Elaine, has been wanting for awhile. Click here to check it out! Say, "Hello!" to my dear blogging friend while you're over there, will ya? :)

I am excited to see whose pictures I am going to be working with on my holiday layouts. It's weird to be working with candy canes and Santa Claus when our jackets have not been taken out of the closet yet. If you are interested in entering my giveaway, do so soon because it ends at noon.

I've been experimenting with the new editor in Blogger. Jury's still out, but as of right now, I'm not sure I'm a fan.

Yesterday, I took the best nap. I decided it was time to cash in on one of the privileges of being a stay-at-home mom, which was the ability to read a book in the middle of the day. I got the girls down, then got into bed with a great book. The little one woke within an hour and came to me for cuddles. We both ended up falling asleep for well over an hour. Bliss.

Hope you all have a lovely weekend! I'm sure mine will be less than lovely. Bah.

A Holly Jolly Giveaway

2009-10-07T11:36:00.001-05:00

I'm having a giveaway (kind of!) that you may be interested in entering over on my makeover blog, Blogs by Sneaky Momma. :)

I am looking for a model family to use in examples of holiday headers over at Blogs by Sneaky Momma. If selected, I would need 4-5 photos of your family (kids, group shots, etc.). A link to your blog will be prominently displayed on the example page (if desired), along with a 'thank you' for allowing me to use the photographs.

Winner will get a Holly Jolly Mini-Makeover ($15 value) of their choice, to be installed whenever they wish.

Head over to my makeover blog to enter! Good luck!

Told you I had Christmas on the brain!!!! :)

Secret Sneaky Friend

2009-10-05T23:00:00.014-05:00

My Secret Sneaky Friend for this week is........Tiffany over at The Boren Life!

Tiffany is hands-down one of the most genuine people I've ever had the privilege to meet in the blogging world. Her positive attitude is absolutely contagious! Tiffany has two small boys with her husband, Jason, who is currently serving our country in Iraq. She is one busy mama!

Welcome, Tiffany!

What do you want most from blogging? Lauren

I began blogging as a way to bridge the miles that separate us from our families and friends. We are a military family and have, until recently, lived a good distance from loved ones for nearly 13 years. I didn't know much about blogging other than the mom forums I had been part of and even turned down a request to be a blogger for one as I thought it would be to difficult to do frequently given our demanding lifestyle. However, doing a blog for our family appeals to me because it not only keeps our loved ones in the loop but also provides a "scrapbook" of our journey. I print/publish our blog every year so it can be tangible for our boys in the future. You know, give them some light reading on road trips and such. It should come in pretty handy too when we have daughter-in-laws entering the picture. Oh geesh!

You can only wear one accessory for the rest of your life...which do you choose? Whitney
Yeah..other than my snake skin underwear it would have to be my wedding ring.

Just kidding about the underwear.

Do you have a daily routine with your children or do you pretty much go with the flow? Alicia

Oh dear. Thank goodness you're asking me and not my mother! I would say I have a definite routine with my kiddos. They know exactly what to expect and can pretty much predict our mornings as they are the same every day except Saturday. Saturdays are our freebies! Afternoons are pretty laid back once we finish lunch and naps we hang out, play games and take in play dates, park trips, or just snuggle up with some books. I think its a good balance. I did recently cut out many evening commitments because it was getting way too hectic and let's face it, not easy peazy with just me running the show around here!

If you were stranded on an island with your Mother in law what would you do? Robyn
I would talk a lot. Not entirely sure if she would, but I would. A-LOT. Mucho. Yep, talk. Let's just leave it at that.

Are you named after anyone significant or unusual?- Deb
Unusual? No. Significant? Yes! My Dad likes Tiffany & Co. I think my mom does, too. :)

Are you where you imagined you'd be in high school? If your high school self saw you today, what would she say? Deb

Hmm....tough one. I'm not sure my high school self imagined I would leave my college sorority, cheerleading life to join the Army to learn about dental health. I was really into dance and my boyfriend at the time. Tho he being the reason I turned down an opportunity to go away to a performing arts school after HS and pursue my dream (idiot!) it was a blessing we broke up. I think my HS self would say, "Wow! I didn't ever dream I would have been around the world by age 22 and have found my soul mate all because of the Army." And I would kindly reply, "Be all you can be Sistah!" :)

Who has had the most influence on your life?- CC

Aside from becoming a Christian and growing closer in a relationship with Jesus Christ (which is by far the best thing in my life), my mom has had the most influence. She's always been very honest with me. It didn't make me agree with her all the time, especially as a teenager, but I always pondered deeply the things she told me. "Do what is right, even if no one else thinks it is", "following the crowd will lead you nowhere", "it's impossible to please everyone". She's shown amazing courage and strength her whole life and to have that example is inspiring. I am so thankful to have her in my life and for the unconditional love she extends me.

How did you meet your hubby? Elaine
We met shortly after I completed Basic Training and Dental Specialist school in the Army. I went to my very first "drill" which happened to be Annual Training (a 2 week summer training event all Reserve units partake annually). The meet-up location was on Fort Knox. (Ironically this is where we are stationed out of now, some 15 years later!) I followed another gal all the way there since I had no clue where it was. She backed into my vintage Camero on the trip down so we immediately engaged in conversation about the damages etc once we arrived. Jason said he and the other guys noticed me right away, "the new girl", and were disappointed to see that I had showed up with the only known homosexual female in the unit! WHAT??? I had NO clue!

I noticed Jason once I settled all the details of the car stuff and I was immediately love struck. Never believed in love at first sight until that very moment. He was really tan from doing landscaping work (his summer job while in college at IU) and he had the most perfectly straight and white smile I had ever seen. It didn't bother me that his eyes were piercingly crystal blue either. Not one bit. Nor did it bother me that he was fit as a fiddle as a result of his martial arts activities. Nope. I was smitten as a kitten before we even had our first chat a week later.

We hung out and became friends for a while, as I still had a boyfriend! YIKES! But had no problems moving onto a steady relationship once I was single. It didn't hurt that he told me he was enamored with me the moment he saw me as well. What a guy!

What is your favorite way to relax? septembermom

Cuddling up on my husband's chest and just being together. When he is off saving the world, I cuddle up with a good book or good blog. :) That is if I'm not falling into bed after I tidy up the house, run the dishwasher, take the garbage out, play with the semi-neglected dog, get clothes laid out for the next day, clean the........ ....... ....... you get the picture.

What kind of humor/comedian makes you laugh?- septembermom

My brother T.J. could imitate Jim Carey's facial expressions so well and that always made me laugh! He was so funny! In addition to him, I love punny humor.

What was the most embarrassing shopping trip with your kids? Tiffany
Going to Lowes with both boys, who both had potty accidents. One of which included, ahem..."watering" the lovely flat of pansies I had just placed on the bottom rack of the buggie. Yup, there was a trail of pee from the checkout line, which we had to evacuate, all the way to the bathroom on the other end of the store. Don't these store planning folks know there is going to be some kid who needs to potty and can't make the 5 mile trek to the bathroom???!! It was a gloriously fun trip :) I even went back to the store once I noticed I had forgotten to use my $25 coupon. I didn't care that I was half way home or that most of the people who had seen me drag pee through the store would still be there. Embarrassment does not take the bargain hunt out of the Boren girl! Oh no, sir!

Are you a talker in the real world?- Miti
Hmm....I bet you can figure this one out on your own. :)

What sound do you love? What sound do you hate?- Heidi
Love=The conversations of my boys when they are playing together.

Hate=The screaming of my boys when they stop playing nicely together or when one gets hurt.

If you could have free plastic surgery - one procedure - which one and why? Heidi

C-rap...just one!? I bet all the Super Sneaky Friends say that!

Well, before kids I would have told you that, "God made me special and I don't want to mess up anything he created". Well, being pregnant actually messed some stuff up so I think that's probably why God created plastic surgery, right? Maybe not. ----- So, I would opt for the "mommy job". Yes, I know, it's a series of stuff but if it's free I'm arguing that they are all lumped together as one procedure! That would include the girls upstairs to be put, well..... back upstairs and made firm but not Pamela Anderson firm AND for the looser skin to be just snipped off my abdomen. I stay in pretty good physical shape but I can notice a looseness in my abdominal skin that without extreme low fat diets will not go away. And I'm not willing to give up my bon bons, ladies! Isn't that what SAHM's do...sit around and eat bon bons? Puh-leeze!

You're on death row (naughty, naughty!) and you are getting ready to eat your LAST MEAL. What is it?- Heidi

Oh gosh.. Hmm....I'm preoccupied with the thoughts of what landed me in the slammer. Okay.. let me think here.... uhm..... I would say it's a toss up between a slow cooked tender pot roast with potatoes and carrots and a shrimp bowl from my favorite Japanese restaurant, Nikkos, in Statesboro, Georgia. Since it's my last meal can't I have them both?

If your children take naps, how long do they nap for?- Mama Sewell
Sadly, my oldest (4) gave up his nap recently (I actually gave up trying to force him) so he has quiet time in his room for about 1 1/2 hours. My youngest (2) still takes a 2-3 hour nap every afternoon. The oldest will tucker out every once in a while and just lay down on his own for a nap but not very often.

If you could go on a date with one celebrity, who would it be? Kelsey
I would never want to go on a date with a celebrity. I can't think of anyone more incredible than my husband to go on a date with.

If you got to spend the day with one celebrity, who would it be? Kelsey
Wow... I'm not much of a star struck person so this is tough. OH.. I think that older lady contestant from Britain's Got Talent would be a hoot to chat with! Don't you?

What is your favorite beauty product? Kelsey
It's a tie between sleep and de-stressing.

Thanks so much for being my Secret Sneaky Friend, Tiffany! Any parting thoughts?

What a joy to get to know you Jill, and to have the opportunity to meet new friends through the creative venue of blogging! It's been such fun!

You can find Tiffany over at The Boren Life! Head on over there and meet a Boren family that isn't 'boren' at all!

Free Flowing Friday (on Thursday)

2009-10-01T18:07:00.001-05:00

It's Friday....almost! Wooooo hooooo! Time to spill what's on my mind, no editing. 'Cause, let's face it. If I had to make it perfect, I wouldn't have time to write this post!

Anyways...

I am super excited to announce that I have been asked to be a guest blogger on Scrapblog! They caught wind of my header tip and loved it. I should be appearing on their blog within the next couple of weeks. Crazy!

Just in case you didn't know, I have a whole 'nutha blog out there that is chock full of blog tips. I'm pretty sure you know that already, but if you don't, you can check it out by clicking here.

I feel like such a nerd. All I ever talk about is blog stuff. Okay, no more of that for this post. I promise.

My oldest daughter is now down to 1/4 a prevacid a day. We just may be able to get off this stuff!

My youngest daughter is potty training herself. Seriously. I'm thrilled! Now if only she would stay in bed when she's supposed to....

Grey's: Um, I actually grieved for George last Thursday. I sincerely hope that they are able to make this season work with all the craziness that is going on with the cast. Don't know what I'll do without my weekly Grey's fix.

Anyone watch House? It is one of my favorite shows, but unfortunately, it also falls on my husband's favorite night to watch tv. How I Met Your Mother, 2 and a Half Men, and Big Bang Theory take a backseat to our favorite coldhearted doctor. I'm a big fan of these shows, too, so it's not like my husband is a tv hog. Boo hoo.

Tennis season has begun. Ugh. We're counting down the days until Thanksgiving.

Anyone else really excited about Christmas? I typically start thinking about Christmas about the time Thanksgiving rolls around. Don't know why I've already got it on the brain, but I am excited!

Guess I should start thinking about Halloween. Wonder what my kids are going to be this year. Last year, they wore Bob and Larry t-shirts with their blue jeans. This year, they have new M&M's shirts that they could wear, or we could dress them up as princesses. I'm just not certain I want to dive into the costume box just yet. It's not as if we can go all out costumes this year and revert to simple t-shirts next year. Once we take the plunge, we're committed to costumes for the rest of Halloweens to come.

Okay, I'm fresh out of things to talk about. :) I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!!!!

SUPER Secret Sneaky Friend

2009-09-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

Wanna know why today's Secret Sneaky Friend is a SUPER Secret Sneaky Friend? Read on to find out! :)

My Secret Sneaky Friend for this week is.....Trudy over at Third Time's a Charm!

Trudy lives in Minnesota with her husband, Steve. After a long wait, they are excited to be expecting their first child together! In addition to her little bean, Trudy is also a step-mom of six. She is one busy mama!

Welcome, Trudy!

What do you want most from blogging? Lauren

My hope and prayer is that blogging will continue to be the creative outlet from my writing and for sharing personal stories about myself. I truly believe that nothing connects people more than real, raw, no-holds barred life! My writing tends more toward the non-fiction, personal life stories anyway, so it works well. Making such awesome friends has truly been an unexpected and delightful bonus!

You can only wear one accessory for the rest of your life...which do you choose? Whitney

My wedding ring, no brainer. I only take it off to sleep and shower (and not always even then). It signifies and connects me to the most important person in my life!

Do you have a daily routine with your children or do you pretty much go with the flow? Alicia

We are expecting our first child right now, Praise God!! I expect it will be difficult to do this with an infant, as they tend to create their own schedules.

If you were stranded on an island with your Mother in law what would you do? Robyn

We lost my mother-in-law this past March so I would probably tell Carol how much everyone misses her and that we wish we still had her with us. I would also tell her how sad we are that she won't be able to hold her new grandchild next Spring. (If we have a girl, her second, her middle name will be Carol).

What is the most unexpected thing that has happened to your blog or yourself during your time spent blogging? Vicky

I have met so many fantastic friends through blogging. I honestly had no idea the blogging world was this big. I have met such wonderful, inspiring people, many who I know I will meet someday in real life!

How did you get into blogging?- Deb

Initially, my IRL friend Stacy from Rx For My Soul got me into blogging back in 2006. I blogged for a couple years and then things slowed way down. She had a blog and we just followed one another and commented on each other's posts. Then, I found another IRL friend, Kelly from Raising Delia on Facebook and was led to her blog which is all about her beautiful daughter, which got me interested in starting to blog again.

Are you named after anyone significant or unusual?- Deb

I was named after a friend of my parent's, Trudy Abas. I never knew Trudy myself but always remember the story about how she broke my father's nose on the beach one day. They were all having a water fight and Trudy had a metal pail. She went to throw water on him and the pail flew right out of her hands and nailed my dad across the nose!

Are you where you imagined you'd be in high school? If your high school self saw you today, what would she say? Deb

That's a tough one. I some ways I think I am where I imagined I'd be but not where I hoped I would be, if that makes sense? I always imagined I would be married and have a family but just didn't think I would be in my late 30's when both of these things transpired! For so many years I watched other school friends get married, move into homes, start their families, etc...while I remained largely unchanged. I didn't get married until I was almost 37 and am now 38, living in a 2-bedroom apartment and pregnant with our first child together. I had a child at 22 that I placed for adoption and I also have 6 step-children! However, that being said, I think my high school self would say something like "It would have been nice to see you graduate from the school of hard knocks a bit earlier in life and perhaps graduate somewhere around the middle of your class, rather than magna cum laude!"

Who has had the most influence on your life?- CC
Without question, my maternal grandmother. I did a post about her here, where I shared the eulogy I gave at her funeral just over 4 years ago. She was my best friend in the world and I will always miss her desperately.

How did you meet your hubby? Elaine

My husband and I met online at MySpace over two years ago. It was love at first sight and if you care to, you can read all about that right here!

What is your favorite way to relax? septembermom

I would have to say just kicking back in a comfortable chair with a great book. When the weather permits, this would be outside on a beautiful evening with absolutely NO distractions! Of course, I live in the frozen tundra (otherwise known as Minne'snow'tah) so that's not always possible. If I can't be outside, I also like to relax in the bathtub with some candles and scented bath oils, with that same great book or some nice music!

What kind of humor/comedian makes you laugh?- septembermom

I love good clean humor, can't stand crude, offensive humor with lots of swearing. I like humor based on personal stories and experiences, so I suppose you could say I love

self-deprecating humor. I also love sarcasm and tend toward the sarcastic myself.

What was the most embarrassing shopping trip with your kids? Tiffany

More to come on that I'm sure!

Are you a talker in the real world?- Miti
I can definitely be a talker, my husband would say I am for sure. It really just depends on the situation and the mood I am in. Sometimes I tend more toward the quiet, reflective side.

What sound do you love? What sound do you hate?- Heidi

I love the sound of a baby laughing, that belly laugh that is just so incredibly contagious. I hate the sound of nail clippers...it truly makes my skin crawl.

If you could have free plastic surgery - one procedure - which one and why? Heidi

I would likely pass on this, even though it was free since I'm not entirely sure that plastic surgery was God ordained. Though I could use some improvements (read: many), I know I am just as God created me to be. Of course, being pregnant again...God only knows what havoc will be wreaked on my body, but still, I'm happy as I am.

You're on death row (naughty, naughty!) and you are getting ready to eat your LAST MEAL. What is it?- Heidi
I would have to say a big fat sirloin steak slathered in fresh mushrooms, with a giant helping of my aunt's homemade potato salad, a nice vegetable and a glass of red wine. For dessert, I would have a gigantic cup of the best coffee in the world alone with a slice of chocolate cheesecake!

How often do you get a pedicure? - Mama Sewell

I just had my first EVER pedicure this past summer. My sisters-in-law invited me to go along with them. I think I'm in love now. Unfortunately, it is a luxury we just can't afford right now. If money weren't an option, I'd probably be there every two weeks!

If your children take naps, how long do they nap for?- Mama Sewell

I hope the baby will nap lots for mommy and daddy!

If you could go back in time and erase one super embarrassing moment what would it be?- Mama Sewell

This would be the time that a truckload of my friends and I were heading off to the lake for a morning dip. A bunch of us, including my ex-boyfriend, were riding in the back of the truck. We were at a weekend festival and had just consumed several mimosas for breakfast (not to mention still being drunk from the previous night's activities), so that could quite possibly (read: totally) have been a factor. I was the last one to jump down from the back of the truck. The tailgate was, of course, down but for some reason I did not think it was. So I proceeded to step over the 'not there' tailgate and fall 4-5 feet out of the truck onto the hard concrete below. I can only imagine what a sight this must have been for everyone else. I remember lying there on my back looking up at a half circle of people staring down at me with expressions that were half shocked/terrified and half "I want to bust out laughing so badly right now". My ex walked me into the lake so I could wash off my battered knees/elbows/hands, etc...it was pretty ugly. I think I was crying more from shame and embarrassment than physical pain. Of course, I would undo a lot of those 'mimosa-induced' moments if I could!

If you made the laws in our country what changes would you make to our justice system regarding crimes against children?-Mama Sewell

Pass. I get in trouble when I get too political about things.

What is the most surprising part of blogging? Amanda
I know I keep saying this, but I would still say the most surprising part of it would be all of the great friends I have made through blogging.. I have been so very blessed. I am also surprised at how much I have been able to really come into my own writing through blogging!

If you could go on a date with one celebrity, who would it be? Kelsey
Mr. Johnny Depp...but it would have to be one of those weekend long dates, you know like the ones they used to take on "Love Connection" (oops, did I just date myself)? Johnny is my absolute ultimate everything. I heart that man so much.

If you got to spend the day with one celebrity, who would it be? Kelsey

That would again be the incredible Johnny Depp, probably at his villa in France.

What is your favorite beauty product? Kelsey
Aveda Blue Oil...I love this and always have to have it on hand. Please don't tell my husband how much I pay for it though, thanks. It's a balancing oil that's good for ridding me of tension and upping my energy levels!

Thanks so much for being my Secret Sneaky Friend today, Trudy! Any parting thoughts?

I just want to thank you Jill for doing this every week. I always look forward to reading your super fun interviews and getting to know other bloggers. It was even more fun answering these questions for myself! So, thanks again Jill. I do have a parting question though. When are you going to come out from behind your cushy interviewing chair and let someone interview you? Let me know...I'd love to be the first!

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You can catch me over at Trudy's place today for an interview! Isn't she a sweetheart?? Or should I say SUPER Secret Sneaky Sweetheart? :)

Check out Trudy's blog for a near-daily dose of warmth and friendliness!

Whew!

2009-09-28T15:09:00.001-05:00

I've been so busy lately. I've been keeping up with everyone on their blogs, but have hardly found the time to comment. Why must it be so time consuming to communicate this way??? :)

I recently did a blog for a new blogger. Kortney over at Kortney's Krazy Life is a homeschooling mom who is just now getting her feet wet here in the blogging world. She is such a sweetheart. I had so much fun working with her. If you get a chance, head on over to her blog and give her a warm welcome. She would be thrilled!

Not too long ago, I did a makeover for Diana over at To Everything A Season. Diana was the winner of the giveaway I held via the Friday Freebie in August. I had so much fun designing her blog. When I was finished, she asked me for my address and shirt size. I forgot all about it until a couple of weeks ago (the day before my birthday!) I opened up my mailbox to find a package from Diana! Inside was a beautiful long sleeved t-shirt with a cross on it. Thanks, friend!

Turns out, Diana and her friend Pam made it. Click here to check out some of her work!

I have a lot of housekeeping to do, blogwise. I hope to get around to all of the blogs that I have been missing these past few weeks. It's like I'm here, but not here, you know? It's a very weird feeling!

Anyhoo, I pray that all is well with you and your families. We're doing good here. Counting down the days until tennis season is over (it's only just begun!) and we get Lane back fulltime!