tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57778459073094703142012-02-14T16:10:03.374-06:00Of children, husband, life, and the extraordinary grace of God.Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.comBlogger3001100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-50120090633662140962012-02-13T13:20:00.002-06:002012-02-13T15:51:31.609-06:00

Ava, 2 years 5 months:Lucy, 9 months 2 weeks:

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-87426494225469065822012-02-09T09:10:00.002-06:002012-02-09T09:12:57.958-06:00

"I have dee-wish-us coffee!" After nesting two squares together and proceeding to "drink" from them.................................................................................Dreamily, while eating, "Oh, ketchup. Nummy, nummy ketchup! I love this ketchup"

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-89027528768182466402012-02-02T10:16:00.001-06:002012-02-02T10:22:26.138-06:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-29321578935922525052012-01-30T20:31:00.006-06:002012-01-30T20:58:05.548-06:00

Here's some quick refresher pictures from early on in the girls' room:I've changed a lot of things in the last 18 months. (It's probably an obsession. I call it a hobby.)I repainted the light dresser to a deep teal:And I made subway art for the girls as well as painting the frames to match the dresser:White curtains replaced the purple, and a forest green-turned-white-turned-pink birdcage was

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-15918421221268197952012-01-30T09:05:00.007-06:002012-01-30T09:46:52.249-06:00

I'll start with my biggest project recently accomplished.First, when we moved in I put up purple curtains in the girls' room, thinking that I would go with a purple scheme. Silly me! I love pink, I should have thought through that better.Here's the first look:The ribbon didn't last long (maybe 2 days) and then the curtains stayed for over a year. I really did like them, but the more I planned and

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-85019510466818198162012-01-25T09:40:00.003-06:002012-01-25T09:46:58.999-06:00

Last night Miss Lucy was putting things in 4-wheel drive to get her toy, on the other side of a box. She's so adventurous!Ava had her basket of food, and both her cups. "I'm gonna go to the grocery shop. I'll be back in a minute." Then she walked over the the steps, sat down and had a picnic with the "po-tay-to", "broccery" and "ce-rer-ree". Did you know that red and green plastic peppers, when

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-50736980784430476232012-01-24T09:56:00.001-06:002012-01-24T09:56:33.439-06:00

"Bear said no to Lucy Mae...because he got married!""Jesus makes flowers and fountains.""I'm going to work." (asked where she was going for work) "I'm going to Sam's!"

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-91231306288240706302012-01-23T19:40:00.004-06:002012-01-23T19:50:19.945-06:00

We picked this book up at TJMaxx last weekend.The recipes are easy and healthy (packed with vegetables), and the price is right!I've been getting back into meal planning, and I'm working on the price breakdown per meal after shopping with a strict ingredient list.Tonight was Roasted Cauliflower with Pizza Burgers. The secret to making the meat stretch was black beans and shredded carrots. It was

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-55627560656527923862012-01-22T20:13:00.004-06:002012-01-22T20:38:13.345-06:00

Lucy was content to observe the creating of the snowman.Daddy showed Ava the best snow-packing techniques.Ava has been talking about snowmen for weeks. It was wonderful to have just the right snow for making one!Rocks for eyes, a genuine carrot nose, and sticks in a smile."He's so big up high!"Ava cried and cried over going inside, and was excited to see that the snowman was still in the yard

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-36997849863802047642012-01-21T21:56:00.002-06:002012-01-21T22:02:46.771-06:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-70846653267594412892012-01-20T13:00:00.005-06:002012-01-20T16:08:50.493-06:00

Sometimes I get stressed.I'm told I'm a very happy person. I find that to be true, usually because I see too much joy in Christ to walk around a sad person.That doesn't mean I ignore real life.Last weekend was so busy that it left poor baby Lucy a constipated mess.My days have been full of fussing, crying, and Ava responding to her grumpy little sister, "NO, Lucy Mae!" then running away. (This

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-32084924935064296522012-01-17T19:28:00.003-06:002012-01-17T19:38:29.987-06:00

I'm one year older, and one more year blessed.It was a beautiful day.We explored the snow, and it was marvelous!I had to show you this. Lucy's eyes are really this blue and clear in the light. She is so beautiful!I didn't technically make these on my birthday (I had the cake baked on time, I suppose), but these are my version of enjoyable birthday cake.Orange cake, mushed together with cherry

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-69544546706919655442012-01-16T08:16:00.003-06:002012-01-16T08:17:49.036-06:00

We've only just begun a journey, and it gets better every day. There is extraordinary beauty found in a marriage focused on the Lord Jesus!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-16651784668506866712012-01-16T08:14:00.000-06:002012-01-16T08:15:42.019-06:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-85579097095205559432012-01-06T12:08:00.002-06:002012-01-06T12:14:28.610-06:00

This girl has learned a new skill: army crawling!Nothing is safe! Lucy will roll, scoot, crawl and lunge just about anywhere. It's no wonder we have baby gates at the top of our stairs! :)Her favorite word is still "dada", but she'll holler "aaaa" and LOVES to hear us say "HI!" in reply.She sleeps about 12 hours a night, broken up around 1a.m. to eat.She loves her cereal, and sweet potatoes! The

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-87109906141379800092012-01-05T12:57:00.003-06:002012-01-05T13:04:40.485-06:00

Well, today has been exhausting!Lucy threw up before bedtime, during bedtime, and sometime in the night. 1:30 a.m. brought about Ava crying and throwing up.It continued until 5:30 a.m.It was gross, exhausting, yet exhilarating. Yay for teamwork! Scott and I tag-teamed. He slept on the couch with a sick baby while I cleaned up and held Miss Ava's head over a bowl every 20 minutes or so. Scott did

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-80227311050497619922012-01-04T08:18:00.007-06:002012-01-04T09:10:42.414-06:00

Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!While this is a bit belated, I'm glad to report it is a result of time spent with family and friends. I'm so grateful to have family that enjoys spending time together! I'm also grateful for Scott's family; for the dear people that are my family now, too. It is all because of God's goodness in our lives!I took just a few pictures this year. I know there are more

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-45697000074870570572011-12-20T10:06:00.004-06:002011-12-20T10:16:59.858-06:00

These are in my laundry room and I LOVE THEM!Especially when I hang out with these cuties all week:Ava is one of those darlings who, when very quiet and secretive, is usually found doing this: Do you remember, as a child, what it was like to get to be on your parents' bed? There was something safe, cozy, special about it for me. It's nothing less for my daughters. Ava loves being "up on a bed"

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-21928620869003933852011-12-12T10:44:00.000-06:002011-12-12T10:45:36.196-06:00

is through a basket of toys just for her to empty and chew on!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-33083594304758301952011-12-12T09:49:00.001-06:002011-12-12T10:40:33.491-06:00

Miss Ava has fantastic personal style! Then it got even better:(She was playing in the mirror, her favorite!)

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-79863752637762601612011-12-11T19:38:00.003-06:002011-12-11T19:41:05.740-06:00

{ava}{lucy}

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-18890848996765913072011-12-09T23:30:00.002-06:002011-12-09T23:36:26.621-06:00

Ava threw up for real. Last night. All over me.Poor kiddo.Then she ran a fever.So this morning was spent doing a lot of this while watching a lot of Thomas:Thankfully she was feeling well enough later in the day and pulled out some funny antics for me.Bear was doing a good job smiling for mommy.And in other news, Miss Lucy is really, really mobile. While she's been rolling over for about 3 months

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-78901156365076438612011-12-09T23:17:00.004-06:002011-12-09T23:29:47.373-06:00

Our first real tree! Yay!It is a White Pine.I love the long needles (okay, not the fact that my quite mobile baby could try eating them or that it's impossible to keep them all vacuumed, but it is beautiful) and the real-ness of it.I raided Target clearance last year after Christmas, and am pleased with the red and silver decorations.I'm pretty sure I've dreamed of this tree forever. I remember

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-78468274801976158242011-12-01T13:46:00.004-06:002011-12-01T13:54:00.581-06:00

It's hard to tell how big Miss Lucy is compared to bear. He just can't seem to stay upright!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-79506009686455513282011-12-01T11:49:00.005-06:002011-12-01T13:05:52.287-06:00

I have porcelain sinks.They look disgusting really fast.See? I think the weird gray stain is grape juice.Baking soda and a scouring later:Much better!.........................................I know this will come as a shock, but I changed up the decor. *fake loud gasp*I wanted greenery.We have 3 giant evergreen bushes.I'm really good at breaking off branches.I love the result.(sorry for the

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-8797108059433356992011-11-29T08:31:00.007-06:002011-11-29T10:03:33.074-06:00

Well, Hello!The last two weeks just flew by. Thanksgiving was enjoyed with our family and friends. I used to wonder what was so great about being an adult during Holidays. You had to cook, clean, and make polite conversation. As a child I considered family dinners somewhat miraculous. I played, and then there was food! This year I had so much fun joining my mom in the final touches of a

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-64574867885409352082011-11-16T14:09:00.004-06:002011-11-16T14:23:16.152-06:00

Lately the weather has been delightful. Warm enough to send Miss Ava out to play and enjoy herself. This does involve building great big leaf piles to wade through.Then I was reminded that a week ago it looked like this outside:Ava had been talking about Christmas for about two weeks, so she was very excited to see snow.I couldn't tell if Lucy was excited or not...Ava love, love, loved it!I know

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-31953974898297206412011-11-14T08:53:00.005-06:002011-11-14T09:23:22.880-06:00

Because to get something like this:One must first do this:

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-70537833485323591012011-11-13T16:56:00.002-06:002011-11-13T17:14:05.918-06:00

I have fun looking at pictures of the girls at the same age. I love coming across similar photos.I love how they are two different girls, but it's obvious they are sisters!Ava 6 monthsLucy 6 monthsThe pink snowsuit:AvaLucyAnd, of course, some recent new pictures that I love! It only took a sum total of 2 hours to get some decent pictures, too! (I digress.)Enjoy!{This is pretty much our life. Ava

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-16524486083121377862011-11-11T18:24:00.004-06:002011-11-11T18:30:23.775-06:00

Scott's arm was set on Friday, but today he is still very tired and lacking energy or appetite.Of course, his body is dealing with major trauma.Right now the prayer request is that his arm will heal properly. And please pray that he would not be too discouraged; it is hard for him to 1.be away from work where he has many projects going and 2. not be able to really hold the girls. (My anniversary

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-78515582660806117882011-11-06T09:00:00.002-06:002011-11-06T13:20:58.424-06:00

Yesterday (Saturday) we traveled to one of our favorite annual events, a tackle football game that involves many friends.While playing Scott was tackled and his left arm was hit hard, which resulted in a broken bone.The hospital recommended an orthopedic specialist, with whom we will meet tomorrow (Monday). Scott's arm is splinted, and he is resting and over all feeling well. The pain meds are

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-38367035841567032422011-11-04T10:54:00.002-05:002011-11-04T12:51:38.722-05:00

The leaves are incredibly beautiful.[The driveway was completely covered this afternoon.]God has created such beauty!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-38815313874110882372011-11-02T21:31:00.002-05:002011-11-02T21:36:07.878-05:00

She can sit up,rolls back to front and front to back,only scoots backward in her walker,loves the Johnny-Jump-Up,likes playing with daddy's beard as he rocks her to sleep,adores peekaboo with Big Sister,has a funny little chuckle,wiggles when she is pleased with something,smiles SO big,nom-noms every single thing,and loves to cuddle.Miss Lucy is a sweet darling little baby!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-52155223561661336912011-11-01T09:14:00.005-05:002011-11-01T09:33:36.661-05:00

I can't believe we are almost through the year. Time goes so quickly!I've been changing and adding fall decor. I certainly enjoy seeing how other ladies decorate their homes for seasons, and thought I'd share with you too.First, natural (dead) leaves. They're prettier fresh off the tree, but really, who thinks about changing them before taking a photo? Anyway, you'll get the idea. :)My banner,

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-31947394784177406292011-11-01T09:10:00.002-05:002011-11-01T09:14:34.953-05:00

I have a new sewing machine!My awesome yet old machine gave up on life, so I was really excited to hear about this machine from my sisters-in-love. (Bought from Walmart.com for $90.46.)It is a Brother XL-2600iI haven't used it yet, but I'm planning some fun projects! Winter is perfect for sewing, and I'm SO happy to have a working machine again!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-82674129229701784522011-10-29T08:40:00.003-05:002011-10-29T08:54:44.757-05:00

Miss Lucy loves being on her tummy, usually because she can eat things after she scoots over to get them.But look! She's learning a new skill!Goodness, she's cute!Speaking of new things, this has been the new hairstyle lately. Every time I'm thinking of cutting her hair, I realize how much I love styling it, and how feminine and beautifully girlish Miss Ava looks with her long, put up hair.That

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-50303057295620108452011-10-20T18:26:00.003-05:002011-10-20T19:15:39.781-05:00

She was wearing shoes here. It took close to 10 minutes to find all the outerwear, and put it on. She wanted to come in after 2 minutes outside. I hear parents everywhere empathetically nodding and smiling.She likes to put shoes on, too. Or try, anyway.....................................................................................................There's some very cute babies that hang out

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-85979749938299467562011-10-18T10:19:00.000-05:002011-10-18T10:50:27.878-05:00

Also referred to as "Chubulous One"

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-38011005618013950142011-10-18T10:07:00.001-05:002011-10-18T10:11:22.593-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-14070813150038420942011-10-07T19:50:00.002-05:002011-10-07T20:17:14.804-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-44486855247044237802011-10-07T10:15:00.004-05:002011-10-07T13:54:05.614-05:00

"Two legs, two bottoms, two ears, two eyes....one nose!" She seemed to be in disbelief that only one nose was on her face. Also, this was stated very loudly in the middle of the store. I just laughed and laughed. (I still remember her walking up with both fingers stuck in her nose saying, "two noses!". That was the day we discussed nostrils and nose.)She has recently learned that milk can come

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-26533731758215275862011-10-07T09:55:00.000-05:002011-10-07T09:58:28.482-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-31296461081700676702011-10-07T09:52:00.001-05:002011-10-07T09:54:57.200-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-73753960797962842122011-10-07T08:52:00.005-05:002011-10-07T09:32:28.404-05:00

First, french bread.It's delicious in egg casserole.It's also delicious buttered and toasted, then lightly topped with mayo for burgers.The one I took a picture of was the grilled turkey and cheese sandwiches. Yum!Pumpkin butterscotch muffins. Delish.I had a bunch of apples from a friend. So, I set up my little helper and went to town peeling and slicing.Then I put the apples in my amazing

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-70506361287941040472011-10-03T20:56:00.004-05:002011-10-03T21:27:59.736-05:00

Our sweet Ava turned 2 years old!She is the one who made me a mommy.I remember how hard it was to get used to sleepless nights.How odd yet wonderful it was to become a mom.I couldn't believe the instant, fierce love I had for someone so tiny.Then she turned 1, and I thought my heart would break because it went so fast.And now she is 2.My heart will probably break with each new birthday, because

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-83509657008716920582011-10-01T22:39:00.002-05:002011-10-01T22:42:18.180-05:00

and then...NOM!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-40900080990932699922011-09-23T09:12:00.005-05:002011-09-23T09:38:34.799-05:00

I love to decorate.Some might call it an odd sort of sickness.My house changes a lot, and I'm thankful for a dear husband who puts up with it and enjoys it (Except for when I move something and he can't find it. Sorry!).First, I want to say that I'm not trying to brag, just show you some of my favorite projects that I've made for pennies. It's so much fun and I love that I look around my home and

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-50226837243997390702011-09-23T08:52:00.002-05:002011-09-23T08:56:27.052-05:00

The cooler weather is no match for my fearless girl!I make sure she will be warm, and she creates the fun.She was calling her gloves, "hands".Then when she would pull them off she would say, "take the clothes off".So I said, "Dear Ava, let's say gloves. Taking the gloves off."She grinned impishly, but acquiesced and calls them gloves, which causes a bit less public confusion.

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-89734539160310972572011-09-23T08:41:00.002-05:002011-09-23T08:51:14.543-05:00

Lucy enjoys looking at books.When I prop up a particularly large book, it turns into a rowdy game of peekaboo!As for my almost 2-year-old...She wanted to take her football to bed last night.I also heard daddy singing her to sleep with the Husker fight song. (Nice, hon!)I like to call this next segment, "How We Get Ava Up in the Morning."She's her mother's daughter.I like to "be cozy" too.

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-4127306213429524812011-09-16T08:31:00.002-05:002011-09-16T10:16:57.888-05:00

I realized that both girls have worn this outfit at 4 months. I had to take a picture and loved seeing them together!Ava:Lucy:After taking Lucy's picture, Ava wanted hers taken. However, her ornery self showed up and this is what happened: (That last one was Lucy getting tired.)Ha! I love real life. :)

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-79379506974360545992011-09-12T16:54:00.002-05:002011-09-12T17:13:06.258-05:00

I picked these up at a garage sale back in July:Cute, but the style wasn't quite what I wanted for the girls' room.However, I have achieved the picture in my head!Newly improved, we have some wall hooks that are cute and functional!After:The wall shelf received a few coats of white paint after a good cleaning (I used some Krylon at first, but it didn't cover as well as I'd hoped. The final coat

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-13072763870949613512011-09-12T09:37:00.003-05:002011-09-12T10:11:38.776-05:00

I think our house is really cute! However, the shutters had faded, the mailbox was a bit blase, and it was time to fix them!Before:(Enter Rustoleum 2X spray paint in Cranberry Gloss. This is strictly a personal recommendation for this paint.)After:I like!We got the paint on sale at Menards, so we only spent $10 on the paint (about 4 cans) and it looks great! Hopefully it will wear well.

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-60559664177714997852011-09-09T20:10:00.003-05:002011-09-09T20:23:03.794-05:00

AvaLucy

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-91239811984362415122011-09-07T22:26:00.000-05:002011-09-07T22:28:24.004-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-13966693473516647272011-09-06T22:33:00.008-05:002011-09-07T22:15:08.678-05:00

All photos Copyright Megan Sloter

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-8006702072386525752011-09-06T20:15:00.003-05:002011-09-06T20:43:17.317-05:00

We have a really fantastic garage. It easily fits both our vehicles, storage shelving, all the boxes and cardboard I use for painting surfaces, and has plenty of room to finagle a baby carseat around.However, the door frame is sagging due to improper building. There is no beam supporting the entire doorway, and as a result it puts strain on the door and the structure as a whole.Scott, my dad, and

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-25266088659437839542011-09-06T09:03:00.005-05:002011-09-06T09:36:33.448-05:00

We kicked off Labor Day weekend with the first Big Red game of the season! They WON!!Scott has a TV connected to a computer in the basement, and with online streaming he can watch his favorite team. :)Both girls really seem to enjoy football.Ava is all prepped to go. Her football lingo this year includes, "Here comes the football!" and "Oh, they go boom!" She's the cutest commentator!Saturday

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-89132974825828278152011-09-02T14:42:00.000-05:002011-09-02T14:43:05.135-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-82744979464515158422011-09-02T13:50:00.002-05:002011-09-02T14:41:36.814-05:00

Bumbos: The weird foam-plastic-squishy-yet-solid seats that are taking the baby nation by force.Miss Lucy loves it, since she can see what's going on. I love it for having her near during meals as well. She's part of the family and I have both hands free. It's quite ingenious. And I love it when Ava talks about the Bumbo. She enunciates it perfectly!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-62708893750486713102011-08-31T18:41:00.003-05:002011-08-31T18:49:43.420-05:00

Watching Scott grill burgers: "Daddy hot!" "I'm pretty funny!" Usually followed by hysterical laughter. As I was going to get groceries, leaving the girls with daddy, Ava asked, "Mommy go to work?" In a way, yes! "Go see mirrors?" (Every time we walk by the aisle in Walmart with all those mirrors...) "Woocy Mae! So sad!" Said condescendingly, with a head tilt and sympathetic eyes. "Don't

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-58465865220629494182011-08-29T09:10:00.002-05:002011-08-29T09:13:40.038-05:00

Bridal shower with mommy, Fun day with our church family all on Saturday... Meeting on Sunday, followed by 6 hours round trip to meet some lovely relatives of Grandpa K... So tired that even playtime is exhausting!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-18837608238617380142011-08-29T09:08:00.003-05:002011-08-29T09:10:11.422-05:00

The Littlest starts out facing the book. She doesn't stay that way for long!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-72351797437683558422011-08-25T10:50:00.005-05:002011-08-25T13:38:24.668-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-30859005762935853932011-08-24T19:43:00.001-05:002011-08-24T19:55:07.271-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-55533760411436863012011-08-22T21:07:00.005-05:002011-08-22T21:46:40.027-05:00

Mr. Wonderful and I met at this camp 6 years ago. We were engaged right after camp 3 years ago. (I was reminded that I didn't want to get engaged at camp. What? Why??? That would have been SO romantic!) Last year we took our 10.5 month old, and this year we took our 3.5 month old and 22 month old. It was so fun! Miss Lucy took a while to get used to the extra ruckus, location, and schedule, but

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-18553946087361286712011-08-10T19:02:00.002-05:002011-08-10T19:05:46.523-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-22042289844289249192011-08-08T22:14:00.005-05:002011-08-08T22:25:30.530-05:00

Both girls are having fun learning... Miss Lucy is trying to sit up, and loves to chew on everything! (Sorry for the blur-I don't like setting off the flash in her face.) Ava is all about coloring, drawing, writing...on everything! Chalk is fantastic, it's very washable. That makes mom happy! The chalk works great on the patio... on skin... {happy} ...on the retaining wall... and on the

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-5501163431825534782011-08-08T11:02:00.005-05:002011-08-08T11:11:33.408-05:00

We went to Grandpa and Grandma's!(Ava was born the day after Uncle Ezra's 3rd birthday.) With Miss Ava being so close in age to my younger siblings, they have all sorts of fun together! She rode around in her wagon all morning, and only took a break to eat! [as I write, Miss Ava is giggling about "Ezzah, Ava, da bear!"] Such fun! Thank you to my sister Megan for taking these pictures for me!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-29751160072035022662011-08-06T17:02:00.000-05:002011-08-06T17:05:01.557-05:00

AvaLucy

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-29569606213449615132011-08-06T08:38:00.001-05:002011-08-06T08:41:34.271-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-57230068067907589842011-08-05T19:40:00.001-05:002011-08-08T11:16:31.428-05:00

[photo taken by miss elizabeth]

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-26268674536189389962011-08-05T19:38:00.000-05:002011-08-05T19:40:02.166-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-74698727803303442592011-08-04T18:37:00.002-05:002011-08-04T21:54:20.190-05:00

One of my favorite summer foods is bruschetta. There are many nuances to bruschetta, but the basics are tomatoes, oil, seasoning, and cheese combined and served on toasted bread.With tomatoes in season, they are especially delicious!A visit to my local farmer's market yielded some fabulous 7-grain bread.Butter both sides and pan toast until a deep golden brown.My favorite key to bruschetta: fresh

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-30725370170231567082011-08-04T14:44:00.002-05:002011-08-04T14:53:02.872-05:00

The little basketball and hoop-Ava loves it!Lucy is still too little for a walker, but Ava finds it very entertaining!Lucy just observed as Ava played with the toys and taught bear the important skill of baby walker-sitting.

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-37469202275400516492011-08-03T20:10:00.005-05:002011-08-03T21:02:12.014-05:00

And it took the artwork on the wall from typical:to different!I had originally thought of buying a willow branch, but then I remembered we still have branches in our yard from the big storm. So I found one I liked, sanded it, gave it a spray over with white, then with grey, and finally a clear top coat. It took all of 15 minutes. Easy and free!I love it!The other addition in our room is my cedar

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-34786131128868203312011-08-01T09:58:00.004-05:002011-08-01T13:31:48.852-05:00

Ready? We need a before.Welcome to The Cave.This room is small, and such a dark khaki on the walls was a big no.So we repainted shortly after moving in.Never get the cheap paint.Even if it's free after rebate.Just don't.It will stink to high heaven when it's wet, and start to crack after just a year on the walls.(This is actually my nearly-forgotten "before" picture. You can see the cream, but

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-85856674914472265392011-07-28T12:38:00.005-05:002011-07-28T12:54:49.717-05:00

Does anyone love those old chairs with desks attached?For the past two weeks I had really been wanting one for Ava, since she's now into coloring everywhere. I've cleaned crayon out of carpet, off the walls.She's been disciplined, taught where the crayons go...and yet my little sinner disobeys.So how about some boundaries? A desk where the crayons must stay.I was so excited to pick this up for $5

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-55652686696180077452011-07-26T18:36:00.007-05:002011-07-26T22:13:18.593-05:00

The carpet is in!Our new-to-us carpet came from Scott's coworker.Very nice, and it turns out that the process of changing out the carpet was something desperately needed, due to the condition it was in. Read on...Step One: Remove old burgundy carpet. Discover nasty carpet pad underneath.Step Two: Peel and scrape up nasty carpet pad. Discover stained floorboards underneath.[Note: When we bought

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-62546439147893860202011-07-24T20:37:00.003-05:002011-07-24T20:44:45.835-05:00

One thing Scott and I have learned over the past weekis that taking time to do renovation-not rushing through big projects-is relaxing, enjoyable, and allows for time enjoyed as a family.We are getting closer to having the bedroom done.It has been so fun to do this together.The carpet is nearly installed.My darling husband has been working on it in the evenings.He's fantastic.I'm working the

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-42965627196670480352011-07-19T16:33:00.002-05:002011-07-19T16:44:16.896-05:00

is creative with her toys and playtimeuses her imagination to make a comb her "straw"and she loves to dance.Lately I'll ask, "What's your name?"She replies, "Ah name ah Ava!"Please, Thank you, You're Welcome, and Excuse Me are now commonly heard.She does a pretty good job following the rules.Fist bumps are typically more common than high-fives.She completely adores her little sister.I love my

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-68587993145234617832011-07-19T16:07:00.003-05:002011-07-19T16:11:13.834-05:00

[I love all her little funny faces]

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-63651030088812064082011-07-19T10:00:00.003-05:002011-07-19T10:09:48.056-05:00

#1: Cuddle the blankies until you are drifting off...#2: Slowly lower your arms, letting yourself fall asleep completely...#3: Totally asleep, ignore mommy taking pictures of your darling face...

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-56951712592792915742011-07-18T13:57:00.003-05:002011-07-18T14:08:15.396-05:00

Ava really, honestly asked for it.Being put in the box, I mean."Inna box? Peeeeezah? (please, dramatically spoken) Box! A house! Inna box!"She loved it.Goofball.

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-81227874123599716222011-07-14T20:05:00.004-05:002011-07-14T20:45:59.737-05:00

This paint:Took the ceiling fan from this:to this:We've now painted...from weird creamto Bamboo Stalk by Dutch Boy:and put up a new blind:Loving this remodel!To be continued...

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-31860392019792712022011-07-14T19:53:00.004-05:002011-07-14T20:02:19.921-05:00

The living room finally has curtains! Just a simple muslin, hemmed and a casing put in. I love simple curtains like this, combined with the drama of floor-to-ceiling length. It makes the living room cozy, and somehow elegant. The room still has that simplicity that I love in decorating, and I have again put time and effort into making something I enjoy. I love the satisfaction of creating in my

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-86144680279686707652011-07-09T16:12:00.002-05:002011-07-09T16:25:18.129-05:00

Sometimes my daughtersare justso incrediblyCUTE!{Sneak peek at Master Bedroom goodness}

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-18996161832579640542011-07-07T13:47:00.002-05:002011-07-07T13:53:32.030-05:00

and it wore Lucy out!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-31775230979669985502011-07-06T19:20:00.002-05:002011-07-06T19:29:00.290-05:00

1/2 cup Oatmeal for cooking...2 little Hands for mixing, scooping, dumping...and 1 Chair for standing...makes for a blissful Miss Ava!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-12211140678412407132011-07-06T16:51:00.001-05:002011-07-06T16:54:20.344-05:00

"Hewooooow!?"

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-68855292024048802912011-07-06T16:09:00.004-05:002011-07-06T16:47:18.024-05:00

I sure am excited about this project!(I love projects. They get my adrenaline going...and my decorating bug bites hard until the project is done!)This all revolved around a can of chalkboard paint I got for Christmas last year. I've been practically dying to paint something but wanted to plan my action well.We picked up some plywood from Menards, and painted it. We also got a basic trim piece.(I

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-55473560278675653742011-07-06T16:03:00.004-05:002011-07-06T16:08:58.665-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-39169967151381043872011-07-01T10:22:00.002-05:002011-07-01T10:27:37.673-05:00

Love my Littlest so much!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-15724546201709939962011-07-01T10:12:00.003-05:002011-07-01T10:22:33.472-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-36037837758756846592011-06-30T12:24:00.005-05:002011-07-02T23:13:04.208-05:00

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness."

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-11362617594895617362011-06-28T22:01:00.003-05:002011-06-28T22:18:13.436-05:00

I got these side tables at garage sales last summer. They were kinda beat up, so I slapped some spare paint on them and stuck them in our living room.Cute, but very vanilla against the also somewhat cream/yellow hued walls. I wanted to paint them white, so they would stand out against all the vanilla-like tints in the living room. The only catch, I didn't want to spend any money.I was surprised

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-28594287887788165412011-06-27T22:00:00.002-05:002011-06-27T22:08:48.700-05:00

Coloring (not always on paper)"Pony wide"Anything girly and funBaths...are probably her very favorite activity. She will walk away from anything, anytime to take a bath.I love my almost 2-year-old! She is so creative, and brings so much joy!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-33041651187305253432011-06-27T18:41:00.002-05:002011-06-27T18:47:28.693-05:00

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-45361603280811949662011-06-27T17:33:00.002-05:002011-06-27T18:48:29.712-05:00

Last October:Just this week:Not quite a year's difference, but fun to see how much Miss Ava has grown up!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-25752375388548925802011-06-20T10:27:00.003-05:002011-06-20T13:20:07.772-05:00

{Before leaving for church}{Then daddy grilled BBQ chicken}{Delicious!}I am thankful for the daddy in this household.He leadsprotectsserveslovesblessesencourages...gives pony ridesreads storiesticklescuddlesand we know he loves us very much!

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777845907309470314.post-58630463055311993032011-06-17T08:39:00.004-05:002011-06-17T09:19:01.827-05:00

We bought some of this:Then we went and had a lot of fun playing with it.It's so fun to have an active, busy Miss Avaand a Miss Lucy who is just as busy, but in a baby sort of way.

Hannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00735033058948645405noreply@blogger.com0