Happy In The Moment!

Isn't She Lovely...?

2012-01-24T19:40:00.002-05:00

I have a new addition to my counter top. I have waited a VERY long time for this addition and even today, as I sit and type with her sitting right her next to me...I still can't believe it is true.

Behold...my newest kitchen assistant.....

Her name is Giada...I am looking forward to many happy days in the kitchen with my new friend!

It Is A New Year People!!

2012-01-08T19:03:00.001-05:00

So...hey!

I feel like a really bad friend...I have abandoned you all...and I really didn't intend to do that!

The holidays around here were peaceful and lazy and full of lots of fun that did not involve the computer. I hope yours was the same.

Now that Christmas and New Year are behind us, I promise, I will try and visit here on a more regular basis. I truly miss my time here...thanks for visiting - hope you come back soon!

Bev

Such A Fun Morning!

2011-11-06T16:10:00.001-05:00

They saw you can never go home again...but today, Sunday, I managed to do it!

For most of my formative teenage years, my daddy was the pastor of this church. All my teenage triumphs and angst happened on this corner it seems. Today marked the 65th anniversary of the church and I am so happy to have had it as part of my life. The friends I made here -- are my friends for life. They are family to me.

My family and I got to return for service here this morning and fellowship meal afterwards. It was great to see everyone...I was hit by emotions I didn't expect, but oh, so happy for them all.

After church and lunch my old youth group got together for a photo op! Such fun to see them all...I love them and all our shared memories so much!

Oh -- and the picture of the church was taken by my daughter...she is developing a really good eye for picture taking...don't you think?

Feeling Crafty On A Saturday!

2011-11-06T15:55:00.001-05:00

I made a book page wreath! So pretty -- but oh how my hands hurt from the hot glue...OUCH!!!!

And I made this for my front door!

Have a great weekend!

Bev

2011-10-26T23:40:00.002-04:00

I haven't been here in a while...life is just busy and once the day is through -- I am not keen on sitting and writing anymore! This afternoon though, after a pretty restful morning, I felt the urge to come and visit. Rather than suffer through a few borning paragraphs (cause let's face it...I am a little rusty at the writing these days) I decided to just do a list of few of my favorite things at this moment in time!

Here we go...

1. Fires in a fireplace. I have a fireplace and this year, I intend that we will use it. We also have an outside fireplace and this year, we have already used it. The time for warmth has come!

2. Footloose soundtrack. Both the old one for the traditionalist that lives inside of me and the new one for the country girl who can appreciate all types of music. Saw the movie last night too--I wasn't expecting to like it - but I did! Go see it.

3. Fruit in my tea. This summer we (my little family) discovered Raspberry Tea at a diner in Pennsylvania. It was dE-Vine! Now, I have to have fruit in my tea- I like raspberry and peach tea....anyone else have a favorite you would like to share. We are currently using the Crystal Light mix packets. Love, love, love!!

4. Fresh laundry. No doubt about it - there is nothing like it - today was laundry day so my sheets and towels are smelling so fresh...it makes me wish everyday was laundry day...well, not really - but still I love fresh laundry.

did ya'll notice I am stuck on F's today? Weird huh? Well, not to be undone...here is one more.

5. Forgiveness Matters. Forgiveness is big in my world right now. Both needing it and giving it. I wear a braclet on my wrist that reminds me every time I see it that I am forgiven. I need that reminding daily - the devil tries really hard to rob me of my every joy -- I use it as a weapon againist him. I hope you get this message...there is forgiveness for you as well. I hope you find it. I really do.

Happily!
Bev

5.

Friends ARE Friends Forever...

2011-09-20T20:07:00.000-04:00

Before I was the me I am today, I was part of a really neat WE. Before life had really gotten started for me, I was BLESSED with friendship. From the church infant nursery I was given a best friend for life. From the horrors of a high school chemistry class, I was given three more. The five awkward, naive, teenage kids, became the Fab Five.The five of us, became a WE - we went to prayer breakfasts, football games, Pizza Hut, the Mall, the movies, the Prom, each other's homes. We rode in carpool, we "rolled" mailboxes, we laughed, we laughed and then we laughed some more. We pouted, we hugged, we worried, we cried. We fought, we made up, we played pranks and wrote notes. We had favorite songs, we went to concerts and we sang...a lot. The five of us -- we were a WE! And we loved it, we loved each other, and we held on to the friendship when time and space tried to take it away.

Twenty five years ago we went on a beach trip and posed for this picture...

Then life happened...we moved, we grew up, we married, had kids, had careers, found other friends.

But this weekend, this marvelous weekend in September, full of crisp air and hints of sweet sunshine, the five of us became WE again. Boys came home, took planes and cars to meet the girls for a day full of memories and fun and laughter, so much laughter. We are lucky...twenty-five years did nothing to us but give us all a few wrinkles, some "laugh" lines, new hairstyles, and a need for reading glasses in dimly lit restuarants...the bond we had is still there...it took two seconds to fall back into the familiar rhythms, the years between us started to disappear and we were once again a group of friends, connected by our hearts. Time and distance sad, defeated competitors to try and take it away.

What an amazing weekend. What amazing friends I am blessed to call mine.
I wish this type of friendship for everyone who reads this...God is good...all the time!

Happily!
Bev

Seems Just Like It Was Yesterday...

2011-08-31T04:55:00.000-04:00

Just an ordinary day, just an ordinary road trip.

It was a trip I have made hundreds of times in my life, across my state, through one other and halfway through the next one. I could do the drive in my sleep.

This Tuesday drive was different. This trip was completely different. I felt like we were traveling a road that we had never seen before, that the hours were dragging by and flying past all at the same time. We were on the road to parenthood. Our hoped for child would be born in less than twenty-four hours and we were hurrying to be there on time. It was surreal.
I wish I could adequately sum up the feelings that were going through my mind that day. We had our car packed to the roof, we had our sweet old dog Jake snoozing in the back and we were being followed by my parents in their car. I remember being excited, the thought that parenthood was finally upon us was exhilarating. I remember being nervous, after all this child would not know us, not know the sound of our voices, we would be strangers. Would we be able to comfort and soothe the newborn cries? I remember being so sad that our daughter’s birthmom had to make this decision. I remember thinking how bittersweet that day must have been for her. I knew from speaking with her that she was looking forward to having the process over with the next day, but at the same time, it was the last day she had that sweet baby with her. I remember being scared that even though all seemed well, nothing seemed to indicate that the placement would not go through, there was still a thought in my head that my hubby and I could be heading for certain heartbreak and bringing our family and friends right along with us for the ride. It felt a bit overwhelming.

So many thoughts and fears, so much love, so many moments anticipated, it was a ride that I will never forget.

I remember arriving at our destination, unpacking and just sitting on the bed, shaking with all of these emotions racing through me. I remember eating Kentucky Fried Chicken through the lump in my throat, counting down the hours until 5:00 AM the next day, when we would make one last trip, to a hospital to await the birth of a little girl.

I wrote that post three years ago. I decided to re-run it this morning, seven years after the birth of that little baby girl...who is now sweetly sleeping in her bed tonight, thoughts of her soon to come birthday party drifting in her head.

We were so blessed seven years ago and each year on the days leading up to her birthday I cannot help but remember and be grateful and re-visit all the emotions of that time of our lives.

Happily,
Beverly

Life with a 6 (ALMOST 7!!) Year Old...The Chore Pack

2011-08-03T10:53:00.000-04:00

Child Labor Laws....WHAT?????

Not around this little house on the lane! We have instituted the Chore Pack at our home and I am so happy to report that it is a great success for us. My child is learning some much needed self-discipline, homemaking skills and general responsibility -- not to mention she is earning an allowance for the first time, and Mommy -- well, I am catching up on the sitting on the couch, watching tv, eating bon bons portion of my life!! (Ha - not really, but it is giving me a few minutes of peace through out the day!!)

Check back tomorrow for an explanation of the Chore Pack - you might be interested in it for your little household!

Happily!
Bev

Two, Four, Six, Eight -- Cheer Camp Has Been Great!

2011-07-22T15:52:00.000-04:00

This week has been a busy one, with a week of work for me and a week of Cheer Camp for Hannah!

We are going to savor the next few weeks as our summer is coming to an end and we are both sad about that.

Here is my little cheerleader at the Parent Pep Rally this afternoon...ain't she cute???

The Streets of Philadelphia!

2011-07-17T21:34:00.000-04:00

Last Monday we were walking the streets of Philly!
Here is a little photo peek at what we saw...

Hannah in front of a really cool cardboard city display!!

Ben Franklin's Grave

Hannah at Betsy Ross's house...that is a story teller in the background...he make things out of animal horns!

Flag flying at Betsy Ross's house....so pretty!

You didn't think my child would go to Philly and not find a dog to pet, did you? This was a seeing eye dog -- so sweet!

Hannah helping the Duck Boat Captain steer on the Delaware River.

Steeple of Christ Church - we never actually found it to visit - but we saw the steeple from our Duck Tour.

Ben Franklin's post office, book bindery and house.

This was the room where a little something called the Declaration of Independence was signed!

Posing at Congress Hall, where our cousin George was inaugarated as the 1st Pres of the US

The ruins of George's house in front of Independence Hall.

Waiting on the Train!!!

We loved Philly!!

A Southerner in a Yankee Land...Our Latest Adventure!

2011-07-14T09:37:00.000-04:00

For more than three years I have had a friend...a modern "pen pal". We have emailed, face booked, blog commented our way through the last three years. I have shared happy and sad moments of her life, and she has done the same with me. It almost came as a shock to me that I had never met her in RL (real life!). I know her -- could have picked her out of a crowd with ease, and yet, up until this week - I had never heard her voice or sat next to her! The Internet -- it is a fascinating friendship vehicle! We have been Internet friends for so long and through so much that we can't even remember how we actually "met" online...but Tuesday, July 12th now can be listed in our chronicles as the day we officially met in REAL LIFE.

Thanks to an advantageous vacation opportunity with my husband's family who live in Pennsylvania, my family and I make the 12 hour trek up to Yankee Land last Friday. We spent the weekend visiting our family and then spent Monday visiting our nation's most historic and treasured landmarks in downtown Philly. Tuesday morning took us to Valley Forge, PA and a visit to our most famous cousin's winter time encampment in 1777. After lunch and a quick drive --- my little gang got to meet The Gang at Momma's house!! How fun it was to see her home, her flowers, her children and watch the images from my lap top's screen come to vivid life! Three years of Internet friendship helped me feel as comfortable as if she were my next door neighbor almost instantly. Her sweet hospitality gave my child an afternoon of fun in the sun in her swimming pool and the feeling of being in a home after a week of hotel life! It was one of the highlights of our trip and my husband, child and I are so thankful for Gang's Momma and the Gang for opening their home to some strangers from the South. It was a surreal afternoon and evening, we will never forget it and we look forward to the Gang coming down South one day so we can return the hospitality!

LOVE you, my sweet Yankee Twin... so glad we finally got to meet!

Me and My Pen Pal...together at last!!

Happily,
Bev

Happy Fourth of July!

2011-07-04T00:00:00.001-04:00

Okay -- here's the truth...I can't decide which picture I like better, so I just posted all of our Sunday Morning before July 4th, pictures.

My daughter has discovered curlers...help us all! The tomboy with the curls...it is a most interesting combination, but I must admit - I love it. I love that she wants curly hair (like me) and I love it that she is excited about making herself look presentable before leaving the house!!

We will have a quiet 4th of July, gearing up for our family trip to the birthplace of our nation in a few days...

Have a Happy 4th of July from our house to yours!
Bev

A Strange (But True) Friendship!

2011-06-26T09:23:00.001-04:00

Breakfast time - always a good time to catch up with your best friend!

Here's a close up of what the two best friends look like...yep - one is a cat and one is a lizard!! Who said they can't be friends? Not me, they meet every morning at the kitchen window...

Blackberry (my cat) wanted you to see a close-up shot of his besty...I have no idea what the lizard's name is...I am sure it is something like Slimey or Greeny - I don't think the lizard world has a lot of creativity!!

Blackberry was listening intently on their conversation - or maybe he was just getting ready to pounce at the window - it is just a little game they play - no harm to anyone - really - honest -- there is a BIG window pane between them.

Oh - yeah - it was a pounce not a stare....or maybe this is just their way of exchanging a good morning hug?

Of course it was a hug...see - back to intense cat/lizard conversation - these two could probably solve
any problem you might have...

And then, just as suddenly as he always appears, our friend the lizard took his leave and all Blackberry could do was wave goodbye! See ya tomorrow morning, same time, same place!

So... can you get off that computer and scratch my head?

Gotta love having an animal in the house...there is never a dull moment!

Happy, Happy!
Bev

Peace

2011-06-24T00:06:00.001-04:00

Be still and know that I am God... Psalms 46:10

This is where I find my peace, and where I have been for the past week. Such quiet and calm come into my world when I am here. I can't spend a minute on the beach watching the waves without knowing that God is God and ever present in every moment of my life. I always come home from the beach with joy and peace reigning all over my world.

Abiding happily in that joy and peace, I came home tonight to the news that a friend's parent has passed away after a long battle. While it saddens me to know that people I care about are hurting from loss, I rejoice with them in the knowledge that their father and husband is home with our Father and eternally without pain. My wish is that they will know the peace of God, allow it to reign in their hearts and minds and feel the prayers of their family and friends during this time. Many hugs and love to you guys - from my side of the river to yours!

Bev

The Art of A Snooze!

2011-06-13T18:04:00.000-04:00

"There is a time for many words and then there is a time for sleep." Homer

Just couldn't resist taking the picture of my girl who talks much and has mastered the art of summertime sleep as well!!

Happy, Happy!
Bev

In the Good Ole Summertime!

2011-06-10T10:28:00.000-04:00

Can I just say -- I am LOVING this summer! Oh my goodness - the joy of staying up late, sleeping in and lazily getting the day started is on my list of favorite moments in life!! I remember last summer when my child thought 6 AM was a good time to start the day --- and I mostly woke up angry and cross-eyed and spent the day that way. It is with such heartfelt thanks that I am able to say this year - she has learned the art of sleeping past 9 AM and it has drastically changed our relationship!!

As I write this, it is 10:30 AM, we are still in pj's, sitting on the couch eating breakfast and watching 80's videos!! It is bliss -- bliss I tell you!

Later, we are going to bake cupcakes for our Build a Bear birthday -- aren't you jealous of our exciting life?

I say all of this to say that I love these summer days....I am thankful for every moment -- so very thankful!

Hope you are enjoying your happy moments of summer!
Bev

"Pardon Me Enos, Will You Please Ask John Boy to Pass the Biscuits?"

2011-06-08T10:11:00.000-04:00

Television in our house is tricky these long days of summer. My sweet child has all but outgrown the Seasame Street type of programming and there is just not a lot to choose from on the programming guide for her age.

I have begun to introduce her to shows that still around in syndication from my childhood. We have been able to pick up some very affordable sesason on dvd of "I Dream of Jeannie", "Bewitched," and even "Petticoat Junction!" These have come in handy in our car for certain. We have also found several shows to watch during the daytime such as The Waltons and Little House... I am so thankful for these timeless shows that are now entertaining my child as much as they entertained me!

This all wonderful, but for one thing.

Last night I dreamed that I was married to this man...

(this would be Enos from "The Dukes of Hazzard" for those of you who may have forgotten!)

and we had dinner at this house...

with these people...

Perhaps today we shall leave the tv turned off! I think my poor, tired brain needs a bit of rest!

Happily,
Bev

The Simple Pleasures

2011-05-31T17:51:00.000-04:00

A simple lunch of peanut butter, blackberry preserves on the heels of bread and iced tea in a mason jar!

My child, playing in our humble backyard pool!

My mom - always making me smile!

Green things popping up all over my Peace Garden!

A Memorial Day celebration and my bandanna tablecloth! (and yes, I did make it!!)

These are just a small glimpse of the simple pleasures that have highlighted my last two days, these days are hard for me, but it helps to look for God in the happy and simple moments...I just have to keep reminding myself of this fact, over and over and over again!

Living it out - one moment at a time!
Bev

Til Then

2011-05-29T20:46:00.000-04:00

I have tried to write for the past two days....can't do it.
Life is too short -- I need to play and swim and sing and dance and read a book to my girl. I'll be back -- just give me a few days to process life and loss and the why(???) that is permeating my mind right now.

See ya then,
Bev

Summer Hair

2011-05-25T22:48:00.001-04:00

Lately I have been having hair issues!

The last seven years have been the best hair years of my life...and then suddenly a month or so ago, I began experiencing some minor hair troubles. I won't go into detail here - but it has weirded me out! Now that summer is officially here and there is no office to go to each day, I am returning to my summer hair style and trying to embrace the hair God gave me! No more straightening irons and blow dryers and crazy hair products....for most days in the next few months, unless it is Sunday or some other more formal day, those who see me are going to be seeing me like this...

I am hoping a few days of week of my natural style will help out on the days when I work hard to get the "natural" out of it!!

Curly, But STILL Happily,

Bev

Just a Little Catch Up!

2011-05-25T15:42:00.000-04:00

WOW! So much has happened since I was here last!

My kiddo ending her first grade year with a BANG! She was awarded two awards at the !st Grade Recognition ceremony, one for reading and one for singing! She's a STAR - we are so proud of you!!

We left the day after school was out for the Great Smokey Mountains and The Smokey Mountain Car Show ---- all 55, 56 and 57 Chevy's --- my hubby was in heaven!

Our first official week of summer has started out slowing...catching up on laundry, trying to keep our flowers and garden watered in 100 degree weather and fighting off a stomach bug that has attacked my daughter. We are looking forward to a pool date at the end of the week, praying for wellness by then!

Hope your summer is off to a great start!

Happily,
Bev

Bunny's Eye View

2011-05-18T17:10:00.000-04:00

My kiddo got my camera and snapped a few bunny shots in her room the other. I just wondering what in the WORLD poor Henry had running through his mind...especially in the last shot...it looks like he is striking the universal sign for STOP!!

Things around here = never dull!!

Happily!
Bev

An Update...

2011-05-17T18:32:00.000-04:00

Hey...remember when I was desperate to reach a friend and sent out this message in a bottle the other day? Well, thank God and internet -- the situation is resolved. My friend lives FAR away...she and I are of different faiths and sometimes I feel that our discussions hinge on the verge of wounding both of us, even as much as we try to not let it happen! Long story short....she understood, we are back in touch and all is well. I was more worried for nothing...really, life is just busy her way! Whew!

Just wanted to share the joy since I shared the pain!

Happily,
Bev

Celebrating...

2011-05-16T20:03:00.000-04:00

19 years as a Mrs.

Whew....seems like only yesterday we were looking like this...

We have celebrated in style tonight with dinner out on the town with our kiddo!

Looking forward to many, many, more happy years!

Beverly

Another Try...

2011-05-15T19:56:00.000-04:00

I couldn't get peace
couldn't stop thinking about you
all morning, all during church
I haven't spoken to you in quite awhile,
I haven't even spoken your name aloud...the doing so
would shatter me....
Every gesture goes without notice...
But today I worked up enough nerve to
actually dial the digits to your phone
I just couldn't hit Send...
I felt like it would go unanswered
You wouldn't take the call
And you used to ALWAYS take my call
And that made me sad
So sad
Sadder than sad
And so I spent the afternoon
in silent wail, tears flowing down as I watched mindless
television and
missed you
and wondered how are you
and where are you
and will you ever be in the
orbit of my world again
My friend, my heart, my someone I could always count on.
So once again I use the public
to display the private pain
to reach out and speak
to find out
to wonder aloud into the abyss
do you ever ...?
and would you have
answered me when I called?

Sometimes you just need to throw a bottle with a message tucked inside, out into the wild blue...and hope it lands on the right distant shore and somehow comes back to you!

Wishin...
Bev

Parenting...Just a Thought I Found Today

2011-05-10T19:18:00.000-04:00

This is just too pretty not to share....Ann Voskamp...Parenting the Many.

Enjoy!

Bev

You Know You're A Blogger When...

2011-05-08T20:46:00.000-04:00

You know you're a blogger when you stop in the middle of a meal to take a picture of what you are eating!

Seriously, I fixed myself the most awesome bowl of grits this afternoon after my long and glorious Mother's Day nap and while enjoying it so much, I knew I needed to share it with the blogsphere! Since you don't have smell and taste ability on your computer (do you? is that what is coming next in technology?) I decided I needed to snap a picture!

YUM!

It does look like I have a pound of butter in here..I didn't, just a pat and some cheese, I guess the lighting was weird...but it was a yummy bowl of grits!! Oh - and the best cooking tip I ever got...was to start the grits from cold water. I was always taught to boil the water and then add them, but it you put the grits in cold water and THEN boil...you will get the creamiest, yummiest grits in all the SOUTH!!

Have a good night! Make some grits!
Happily,
Bev

A Happy Mother's To You, And You, And You Too!

2011-05-08T00:00:00.002-04:00

Just so you know...I avoid Mother's Day like the plague!

Truly -- I am not a fan of the day. I spent so many years crying on the day...trying to get through church services that focused on motherhood, wanting all the moms to stand up and so forth or even worse baby dedications that took place during those services. It was trauma on top of trauma for me...the scars are still on my heart... and yes, I know, I should have been just focusing on the happiness of having my mom around, being thankful and celebrating her...but when you are in the midst of fertility issues, miscarriages and so forth...it is very hard to do.

That said, I do want to wish all the moms a happy mother's day, mine included. I am six years away from the horrors I once endured on the day, I have a beautiful child that is truly my gift from God and for six years I have been able to participate in all the commerical, touchy feely Mother's Day events. And yet, as much as I am her mother, she is also a part of a woman who I love and try to honor everyday. I am trying to raise this kiddo the best way I know how...trusting that every decision is the right one and if nothing else, giving her Jesus, just as I promised I would when she was placed into my arms. This day is filled with tons of bittersweet emotion for babies unborn, grandmothers gone, moms and moms in law still with me, and my child's birthmother who I know is struggling with bittersweet emotions of her own Mother's Day. To say it is a hard day is quite the understatement for me.

I hope you and yours have a great day...we are all gathering at my house -- I am cooking and can't wait to give our gifts to our moms!!

Happily,
Bev

Obsession...and not the perfume -- although I love it very much as well!

2011-05-02T19:59:00.000-04:00

Just dropping in to say hello! This week and next are two of the busiest of my year...so I am not sure how much attention the blog will get -- thank goodness summer is almost here and we can get on a more regular bloggity schedule!

I thought I would do a bit of a list for us today...just a few things I am OBSESSED with...maybe you can relate --or better yet, leave me a list of your top five obsessions this week!

1. Blackberry preserves. I don't know where this came from - but in the past three days I have had blackberry preserves for breakfast on biscuits, at lunch on a piece of bread with peanut butter and dinner on a piece of hot homemade cornbread!! I even renamed my cat Blackberry!!! Help me!

2. Autobiographies. Now, you know I love any kind of books - but lately I have been reading autobiographies and LOVIN every minute of it..currently on side table...Ashley Judd and Rob Lowe...great summer reads if you are looking for something to pack in your beach bag!

3. Flowers. Obsessed is not the right word, but I am finding myself wandering the garden section of more than one DIY store here lately. My deck and yard are in full bloom and I am having a great time every evening watering my flowers. It is a peaceful time...and right now - I crave peace!

4. Vitamin Water Zero. It is a strange thing to obsess over for certain, but I love the flavors and the non-calories of this drink. It has replaced both my morning and evening Coke!!

5. Justice for Girls (store). Unless you have a daughter between the ages of 5 and 15...you will probably have no idea what this is...but it is a cute retail store for our girlies...and Saturday I went in and spent a bit of change, got 40% off of the total AND was given a free cash card to use next week. KEWL!!! I love being able to dress the kiddo in style...for little money!!
That is my list...so what is your obsession this week?

Happily,
Bev

Magic in the Making...Every Girl Wants To Ride In A Carriage

2011-04-28T00:00:00.000-04:00

I remember being 15 year old and fascinated!

I remember getting up at 3 AM to watch it. I remember being soaking up all the information shown on the television for weeks before. I remember the magazines that I devoured with all the details. It was the most memorable worldwide event of my life...up to that point.

I remember watching the event, spending the whole day glued to the scene. There was no interent back then...if there had been, I imagine I would have been googling all day too!

I dreamed of one day finding my prince, wearing a beautiful gown and riding through the streets in a carriage.
It was...magical!

I followed her life from the moment the ring went on her finger until the day her coffin stood at the altar where she took those vows. I cried at the wedding, I cried through the funeral.

Tomorrow, I am sure I will be up at 3 AM once again to watch the pomp and pagentry as her son takes a bride. A new princess.

I am much older now, I have a family and a life that will not let me consumed as I once was...but I am intersted in it all nonetheless. How about you? Where will you be at 3 AM --- glued to your television set or sleeping soundly?

Happily!
Bev

The Tooth Fairy, The Easter Bunny and Other Tales of Easter

2011-04-25T21:20:00.000-04:00

Question: How many people get visited by the Tooth Fairy AND the Easter Bunny on the same night???

Answer: At least one!!!

It was an Easter to remember around this little house on the lane. Friday brought us Henry the bunny - a real live soft and cuddly Easter bunny surprise. Saturday night brought another loose tooth and tooth pulling session and out popped tooth number 6....just in time for bed. So, we popped the tooth in a plastic egg, wrote a quick note to the Tooth Fairy so she would know it was for her and then put out some carrots for the Easter Bunny. I am sure the two of them had fun flying and hopping all over our house during the night!

In the morning, there were five glittery dollar bills in place of the egg and a glorious filled Easter basket waiting on the kitchen table.

Even though our day started out on the "worldly" end of the Easter celebration, we did manage to make it to church for a wonderful celebration of the Risen Saviour and the true meaning behind all the eggs and merriment! After a filling lunch with my parents and in-laws, and a fun egg hunt with Henry the Bunny, we wrapped up Easter 2011. It was fun and memories were made in a gigantic way this year!

Happily!
Bev

He Is Alive!

2011-04-24T00:00:00.000-04:00

He is Risen!

He is Alive!

Today we celebrate the day EVERYTHING CHANGED!!
Happy Easter from my family to yours!
Happily,
Beverly

The Final Answer

2011-04-22T18:44:00.000-04:00

Hippity, Hoppity, Henry finally hopped our way!

Have you ever seen a happier face (on the kiddo -- definitely not on the bunny!) ?

Our new forever friend is Henry B. Whiskers, the"B" stands for Bunny, and he is a sweet little dwarf bunny. He was a prop last week for our Easter portraits with a photographer friend and this Friday he is our pet! He has warmed up to his new home, he is happily playing in the backyard with the kiddo and all is right in our world! Life is always interesting around here...and now it is a hopping good time as well!!

May you and your family have a great Easter weekend.

Hoppily!!!!
Bev

Clue # 2

2011-04-22T18:40:00.002-04:00

Hoppity...

A Clue

2011-04-21T20:19:00.002-04:00

Hippity...

Take A Look!

2011-04-20T07:11:00.001-04:00

I posted some new pictures of my garden on the Happy Homestead site...ya'll go look and see "How My Garden Is Growing!"
Happily,
Bev

Will the Circle Be Unbroken???

2011-04-19T00:00:00.001-04:00

My Kitchen Curtains

The wrought iron art piece above my kitchen sideboard

The door mat at my back door/laundry room - and yes - it does match my kitchen curtains!!

Our newest addition to the family room

The mirror above my fireplace.

My favorite rain boots (well, they are my only rain boots!) - I use these for gardening too!

Welcome Mat at the back door I bought last week!

My favorite pj's!

Corner of my child's room we decorated last year!

Notice anything....

I believe I have been a wee obsessed with a certain shape in my decorating choices!!

The mind....it is a scary place! Well, at least mine is!!

Happily!
Bev

My Life on Saturday!

2011-04-18T06:57:00.000-04:00

This is what happens when you try and blog without your glasses!!
Turn your head and enjoy - this is what we did on Saturday....Gymnastics and Egg Hunt!!

I promise I will turn these right side up when I find my spectacles!!

Happily!
Bev

Actually this is probably the most realistic depiction of my life anyway with a 6.5 year old -- everything is always a little off and upside down and sideways!!! :-)

One Person...

2011-04-17T21:44:00.001-04:00

My favorite Sunday School teacher filled in for my 2nd favorite Sunday School teacher this morning - and MAN - was I glad I got out of bed, dressed and went to church. It was so worth it! Ever had a day like that?

The whole lesson was a smash hit in my book - but the one line that has been floating in my brain ever since 10 AM this morning is this...

"I would rather have one person praying for me, than 100 people wishing me good luck."

It is a direct quote from the teacher's father - another man at my church who I adore! And the line - well, I think I will use it from now until eternity. I am fortunate enough to know that there is one and even a few more that are praying for me always. This strength has pulled me through many dark days and because of that - I have learned the power of a praying one.

There is one soul that floats through this world that I have prayed for and will continue to pray for daily - it is a habit borne of years - 28 years in fact and it is not about to slow down, no matter what! The "no matter what" is currently that this person has dismissed me and all I believe in and where there once was communication and relationship - there is now silence and brokenness. I can take it - Jesus went through worse for me -- but it still stings. To know someone is deliberately running from grace and mercy is the saddest sight to have to sit and watch. And because it is so heartbreaking to me - I can't watch -I can only pray from the sideline...

So, know this -- PERSON WHO SHALL FOREVER BE NAMELESS ON THIS BLOG (I kinda need a little symbol for them - like Prince had in the 90's)... there is this one person in this world praying for you - and although you may be happiest about the 100 people wishing you good luck right now...I pray that one day, the prayers of this girl will mean at least a little something to you in your life. You can't have true happiness in life, until you acknowledge where that true happiness comes from...and when you are ready to talk about it once more --you know where I will be....

Happily!
BEV

My Kinda Treat Bag!

2011-04-16T09:48:00.001-04:00

Just thought I would share one of my birthday gifts to myself. It is an insulated tote bag - perfect for those beach or poolside treats! I got it out this morning and had a sudden urge to fill it up and head out to the seashore!!!

Unfortunately, that is not on the books for today. Today is Springfest at our Gymnastics class and then later on an Easter Egg Hunt with friends. It is gonna be a fun day for sure -- just not as fun as a beach day. :-(

Hope you have a terrific Saturday planned out as well.

Happily!
Bev

Pretty and Useful...Pretty Useful!

2011-04-13T22:03:00.000-04:00

This post belongs in the "Things That Make Me Smile" category.

These are my new measuring cups - bought at Pier I Imports with my gift card thta my sis-in-law gave me for CHristmas. I bought some other items with it too...she was very generous to me - but this is by far my favorite thing in the kitchen right now. Aren't they pretty? The blue reminds of the pretty and they do work immensely well. Plus, I get the added benefit of pretending to be Ms. Paula when I am at woAdratic Sea...and they are delicate and all china like - so I feel extra special using something so pretty for something so ordinary as measuring sugar or flour or milk!

I saw a Paula Deen show - and she had some. They looked so pretty and seemed so efficient when she was using them that I when I saw them in Pier I recently, I just knew I had to have them. And guess what - they are pretty and I can't help pretending I am Ms. Paula whenever I work in the kitchen these days. Of course this is resulting in me throwing a stick or two of butter in whatever it is I am making, but hey - butter is what makes everything taste so good - so why not?!

Just thought I would share...now, what is your most recent favorite purchase? Share in the comment section - it is open for business!

Happily!
Bev

A Petunia By Any Other Name...Is Still A Petunia!

2011-04-12T22:21:00.001-04:00

I was feeling kinda sad about not doing a lot of things on my Spring Break "To-Do" list last week, so on the way home I dropped into the local hardware store and set about trying to complete # 8 on the the Things I Didn't Do list, aka "Plant those Pansies".

Three yellow pots and a bag 'o potting soil later, I was headed home to sit and play in the dirt. My kiddo and I set about the process...we filled the pots and separated the plants and potted them in the pretty yellow pots. I also found a few clay pots hanging out in the shed and we had enough flowers to plant about five pots of the pretty purple flowers.

Notice anything?

For those of you who might not get it right away...I have been calling these PETUNIAS - pansies for about three weeks...

Oh well!!

I am just glad I finally got those PETUNIAS planted today -- they make my deck and backyard smile!

Happily!
Bev

Way Back When The Pioneer Woman Came To Town

2011-04-11T07:45:00.002-04:00

This happened back in March...but of course that was during my no laptop phase so I could not post the picture! My friend Kim and I were lucky enough to meet Ree Drummond aka the Pioneer Woman. It was a blast --she is my blogging hero - you can check her blog out on my sidebar. She is very talented - photographer, writer, cook, homemaker-- I can only aspire to a fraction of her talent. But it sure is fun trying...and I was super excited to be in the presence of her greatness and Kim and I had a blast like we always do whenever we are together!!

Have a great Monday!
Happily!
Bev

How I Spent My Spring Break

2011-04-09T10:52:00.002-04:00

Here's how I spent my Spring break...

1. Turned a year older :-(

2. Got a super cool computer from my hubby and parents! Thanks!! :-)

3. Did 49 loads of laundry. :-(

4. Found out how my garden grows! :-)

5. Went to a concert with my favorite guy! :-)

6. Updated my blog (did you guys notice the new buttons and links to new sections at the top yet??) :-)

7. Went out to eat TWICE for my b-day..yum!

8. Saw the movie HOP with my favorite 6.5 year old! It was cute. :-)

9. Met our friends for a fun day of play at Chickafila and the park. :-)

10. Started making our Easter crafts..be sure to check out my new craft section for more on that!

11. Dealt with the aftermath of a bad storm, lost the contents of my freezer and fridge, and hosted my parents at my Supper and Sleep Inn as they recouped from their storm damage!!

Here's what I DIDN'T do on my Spring Break...

1. Sleep late (nope - not once!!)

2. Go out of town.

3. See the ocean.

4. Read a book.

5. Paint the dining room.

6. Clean out my closet.

7. Clear the front bedroom of all the clutter.

8. Plant those pansies.

9. Cook a lot.

10. Take a nap.

11. Watch the full premiere episode of "Real Housewives of New York City! (I fell asleep!)

So...how did you spend this past week?

Happily!
Bev

The Peace Garden - A Photographic Preview

2011-04-08T00:00:00.002-04:00

Not long ago I wrote about the garden my kiddo and I planted recently. We have been patiently waiting for some sprouts to appear and I am happy to report that all seeds have sprouted...sunflowers, onions and carrots! We are so thrilled!

Here are a few pictures of my first spring veggie garden! Pray for rain and a good harvest!

Happily Homesteading!
Beverly

The Path of Destruction

2011-04-07T09:18:00.001-04:00

My parent's were hit in the storm Monday night. Thankfully the house was absolutely untouched, but the yard and the driveway were not so lucky. My hubby and father in law and their landscape guy spent some time with some chain saws on Tuesday morning trying to clear their driveway...that is the first photo...it was a mess!

The second photo is just of a big old tree that was UPROOTED by the wind...it was amazing to see strong trees flung around the yard and yet the plastic hummingbird feeders stand in place!

The last photo is the most amazing one to us...three trees heading for the roof of my parents' home,seemingly stopped in midair by something that even bent one of them. I have no doubt that the mighty hand of God stopped those trees...they bent but did not break and hopefully today the tree removal company will have them out of the ground and chopped up into pieces so they can never endanger a house and people again!

My parent's lost some trees and a pretty fence...but many of their neighbors and other across the area were not so lucky. We are praying for all that suffered worse in the path of that destruction!

Happily!
Bev

They Came...We Went...It ROCKED!!!

2011-04-06T17:16:00.000-04:00

Last night my hubby and I headed out on our what has become annual date night for my birthday at the Rock for Dough Concert that happens in our town once a year! Last night was windy and cold, but by the time Mr. Darius Rucker took the stage after Edwin McCain and Sister Hazel, we were on our feet, dancing and singing and never feeling the cold wind whipping through us! It was an awesome night of music...and sights to see. Nothing like sitting a crowd of oh, 15,000 or so and getting to see some unique fashions! I did pick up a few tips to share with my daughter on how NOT to dress and act...it is fertile ground for that type of research!

Edwin McCain...

Sister Hazel...

Darius Rucker!!

The pics aren't that great - cause - well, I am short and people were in front of me...but still it was a great event. Just for your fyi...this pic of Darius Rucker was taken as he was singing Purple Rain -- oh my gravy train was it good...the whole show was - but that is just one of my fave songs - and I loved his version so much!

The whole evening ROCKED! Can't wait for next year!

Happily,
Bev

Oh Happy Day!!

2011-04-06T16:37:00.000-04:00

I normally don't share such personal info on this blog (haha, ya'll need to quit laughin!!) but today is my birthday...and I got a new laptop! I just had to share since my old one had died and gone to LP heaven where I am sure he is happily surfing down the golden streets of the heavenly portal and experiencing faster than lightening zips from one page to another!

Many thanks to my parents and hubby for making my new laptop a possibility...I can't wait to try out the card reader and post some pics to the blog and the blueray player to watch a movie or two...WHOO HOO!!

So - happy birthday to me-- la dee dee la dee dee....

Hope you are having a great day too!!

Happily!
Bev

Why I Love Wednesday Night

2011-03-31T13:29:00.000-04:00

Wednesday nights are my favorite night of the week.

The afternoon is ALWAYS crazy, chaotic, filled with screams of some deranged mother trying to coerce her child into doing homework and getting a bath before church - geez, sometimes I wish she would quit all that racket so I could sleep -- oh - wait, I AM THAT MOTHER! Almost forgot.

Once we have struggled and wrangled and finally gotten homework and bath done, it is off to church we go! Me and the girlie. It is 5:40 PM -- my happy hour!

When we arrive at church, I ~~patiently~~, sweetly, uhm...hurry my child into the chapel for choir rehearsal and then I scamper (yes, I can still scamper) out to the parking lot to wait on my bff Lisa, who is also patiently, sweetly, uh...hurrying her child into the choir as well.

Once we are child free - we pile into a vehicle and head to the corner store. The convenience store actually has a name...but we like to call it the Corner Store - it sounds so ....retro!

We spend a few moments scouring the layout...crushed ice fountain drink or slushie, or maybe just a bottle Coke..and then what to snack on -- honey bun, cheetos, chips? It is all a big decision - we try to change it up each week.

After we have paid our bill - we hop back into the car and hold on to your keyboard cause this is where it gets even more exciting - we head back to the church parking lot with our snacks!

Jealous aren't you?

You should be - because in the world of mommy - the forty-five minutes or so we get to sit and eat a snack and TALK, uninterrupted before church starts are sacred! Sacred and holy, I tell you - they are God-sent just for us and we take complete advantage. We both have six year old girls -- we never get to talk!

We chat about hubbies and our week so far, coupons, and what to cook for dinner next, and our girls and make plans to meet again for lunch out or shopping. It is heaven in a minivan!

It never lasts long enough, I am always bummed when it is over and every week, long about Tuesday...I start getting excited for my Wednesday happy hour date!

Happily,
Beverly

I Remember All My Life, Raining Down As Cold As Ice

2011-03-30T10:50:00.000-04:00

It's a rainy, dreary day in Georgia and all I want to do is curl up on my couch, read a good book or get lost in a great movie. Unfortunately, I am at work where there are noisy children and pesky people that keep insisting that I do something!!

My ride into work was fabulous though...there is something about the rain that makes me hunt for my Barry Manilow cd and sing like I am on Broadway all the way to wherever I am headed! I am sure my child is thankful that she was dropped off at school before this phenomenon happened! Course, she belts out Justin Bieber, so she might possibly understand...nay...she wouldn't !

That is how my morning started off, rain and sad Barry Manilow songs sung loudly to heal the broken hearted!

How did your morning start off today?

Happily,
Beverly

P.S. -- I miss my poor dead laptop and all the photographic goodness it helped me bring to this blog...sure hope that birthday fairy has heard my pleas!!!

The Peace Garden

2011-03-24T12:16:00.000-04:00

My daughter and I struggle for peace. She is six and a half and I am, well, considerably older. We don't really think alike, don't agree on most things, because I have strange rules like brushing teeth and no whining and she is not keen on me most days! :-)

Thinking ahead to Spring break and the Summer to come has caused me to panic -- just a ~~little~~ LOT! How are we going to fill the hours, will we survive until Fall? I have woken up in cold sweats more than one night over this thought! But yesterday I awoke with a new thought. We needed to find a project, just for us, that would be on-going, fun, fullfilling, and provide many hours of work - together, bonding time, if you will, I just had to find the right project.

I found it....

We planted a garden!

My little farmer's helper and I are growing carrots, onions and peas. We are also hoping to have sunflowers, lettuce and some basil and oregano! It is my strike at finding peace with my child. I am calling it the Peace Garden and we are hoping to make vegetable soup with our very own, homegrown veggies later this year!! Now, of course, you all know my photograph to blog troubles...so you will just have to trust me and wait for the pictures to be added (hopefully) someday soon!

I am claiming this verse for my garden, praying for rain and little sprouts to start spouting and hoping it will give us a peaceful place to exist and grow together as mommy and child!

"If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all." Romans 12:18

Happily,
Beverly

Patience is a Virtue...Of Which I Know NOTHING About!

2011-03-23T12:58:00.000-04:00

Still irritated at my picture situation...I have some really neat stuff to show you, but alas, no way to get the pictures to the blog just yet! Please be patient...more patient than I am being, cause I have NO patience...no patience with computers, with my family, with my child, cars on the highway, the coffee maker, the microwave oven --arghhhh -- JUST NO PATIENCE!!!!!!!

And while you are waiting and being all patient and such -- quit praying for me to have patience...cause that just starts this whole cycle over again....me = NO PATIENCE! It is a fact of my life I have come to terms with...so please don't pray for me to have patience!

HA HA HA!

:-)

Beverly

Happy Spring

2011-03-21T11:53:00.003-04:00

I am itching and sneezing and my eyes are red as a beet! Guess this means Spring has arrived in our fair city.

The computer issues are unresolved and my work computer can't read my camera card so it looks like it will a while before I can update you on any of my most recent fun times. I promise - the posts are written...they just need the pictures to make them sizzle!!!

Our weekend was relatively calm...a school carnival, lots of rest and a little bit of housekeeping and it was Monday before I knew it.

I made it to work only to be assaulted by bits of pollen ---so now I am allergic mess just waiting on the time to zing by so I can get to the store and get some allergy meds...achoo, achoo, achoo!!

But with the pollen, comes the spring, and then it becomes summer and WHOO HOO... I can't wait for that -- so Happy Spring everyone....and break out the Cl@rit@n!!!

Happily,
Beverly

Happy St Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T10:16:00.002-04:00

St Patrick's Prayer of the Faithful

May the Strength of God guide us.
May the Power of God preserve us.
May the Wisdom of God instruct us.
May the Hand of God protect us.
May the Way of God direct us.
May the Shield of God defend us.
May the Angels of God guard us.- Against the snares of the evil one.
May Christ be with us!
May Christ be before us!
May Christ be in us,Christ be over all!
May Thy Grace, Lord,
Always be ours,
This day, O Lord, and forevermore.
Amen

Happily,
Bev

The "I Can't Think of A Title" Post

2011-03-15T10:58:00.004-04:00

I know I promised a recap of my evening with the Pioneer Woman, but my computer issues are still troubling me at home and I forgot my camera card this morning, so I can't update from my work computer either (shh...don't tell anyone I am using my work computer for my blog..okay- thanks!)

Just so you don't think I have given up the bloggity ghost and quit writing about my life...here are a few teasers of some posts that will be coming this week.

A. There is a big project going on at my house...you will have to wait until Thursday to see if it was a success of not. Let's just say...if little green men like gold, one of them just might find himself in bit of trap on St. Patty's Day!

B. Why I love Wednesday nights - a photo journal experience

oh and then there is this...
I just spent about thirty minutes in one of our preschool two year old rooms, and now I have a craving for my sweet little Hannah -- when she was two! It was the best of times, I miss that two year old so much! (I actually think she was three in this picture at the fair -- but she would have JUST turned three and it was all I had on my computer hard drive here at work - so it will just have to do!)

Isn't she just precious?

I just love that my hubby loves her so much.

I have loved every age of her little life...but honestly - 6.5 is tough, and I long for the cuddly two year old and I kinda miss the Wiggles a little bit too! They have been replaced with Big Time Rush and Justin B!

Anyone have a two year old I can borrow?

Sigh...

Even bigger sigh...

See ya tomorrow!

Catching Up

2011-03-14T10:31:00.003-04:00

Yes... I did meet the Pioneer Woman! I have been absent for a few days while sorting through some computer issues and I am hoping the birthday fairy will bring me a new laptop so I can blog more easily and in a much more timely manner!

I will post a picture tomorrow of me and my bloggity idol. It was a fun night, worth the time and effort and I am even more inspired after the event. I am hoping to crank it up a notch around here - so pay attention...there will be some changes taking place!

Happily!
Beverly

The Countdown Has Begun!

2011-03-03T09:06:00.002-05:00

Only 9 more days until I get to meet the Pioneer Woman - Ree Drummond!

I am so excited!

Have a happy day!

Beverly

I've Got A Wild Streak...

2011-02-28T10:18:00.003-05:00

Those of you who may not know me very well, might not know I have a tad bit of a wild streak running through my veins...And apparently the wild streak is PURPLE!!

(my hair stylist and good friend played a trick on me Saturday at my hair appointment, but the joke is on them --cause I like it!!)

Happily,
Beverly

Happy 53rd Wedding Anniversary to my parents....that is a LONG time!! Congrats!

Lessons Learned From A Tantrum!

2011-02-26T20:27:00.003-05:00

Never in my life do I grasp a teeny, tiny bit of God more than when I am interacting with my child.

Tonight, we met friends for pizza at a local "kid-friendly" joint. You know the kind, all you can eat buffet, an arcade room, sticky floors and loudness all around. It was supposed to be fun. And it was ...up to a point.

You see, my child loves arcade games, and most of the time, I give in and buy the tokens and let her play. But tonight, it was just not going to happen. The game room was small and CROWDED! There were bigger kids in there, I knew she would never get to play and the whole place needed a bath - I could almost see the big, bad flu germs waiting to attack. My friend and I decided almost immediately that the girls would not be playing the games tonight, so we thought up an alternate, much more fun solution -- ice cream!!

When the inevitable moment arrived, after the food was finished and my child asked to go play -- I said no...but I added that we were all going to eat ice cream. No sooner than my mouth had formed the word "no" did my child start railing against me. Why? She had been good? She had eaten her food? She wanted to play and I was stopping her for ---no good reason - she was undone and proceeded to throw a six year fit! I don't think she even heard the words ice cream...she was just too busy responding to the NO she had heard from my lips.

Needless to say, we did not go for ice cream. She was placed, "kicking and screaming" into the car and given a ride home. Of course, along the way, I spoke with her about her actions and told her of the good and fun plans I had for her to replace the game room, things that once she heard she cried because she was not getting to do...it was a sad ride home. She is always good about apologizing when she learns the error of her ways, so after a while, a sweet, soft "I'm sorry" was piped up from the back seat. She was sad, but hopefully learned a big lesson.

As I was driving home with the saddest little girl in our town, I realized just how much God uses being a parent to teach me about being His daughter. Many times in my life I have railed against Him. I didn't understand why He let that boy leave me brokenhearted, didn't He know my plans, how I wanted my life to go. I railed against the injustice and only when I met my husband to be and saw the good that he brought into my life did I fully understand the reason why the answer to the other prayer had been NO!

I railed against Him when babies were not born breathing and then stopped coming at all. WHY? I had been good, done all that was asked of me, tried to serve and do and be the right kind of person, and yet, those around me were getting the "prize" that was ripped from my heart. It was unfair, it was heartbreaking, there was no reason for it...until the day that my sweet daughter, birthed from another woman who dared to step out in faith and share this life with me, was placed in my arms. Then I understood, I could see why I had to go through all the bad times, the reward of THIS child was so much better than what I could have had, if my small, simple prayers had been answered my way.

Yes, I understand my daughter's tantrum more than she will ever know. I know what it is like to "be good" and expect a reward that I deemed appropriate. I know what it is like to hear the word "NO" and not be able to see the why of that decision. I know what it is like to keep talking back to the authority in my life and miss seeing the better outcome for my selfish, stubborn self. I get it, oh, I get it!

Parenting for me is nothing but hard. There has not been an easy day yet, nor do I see one on the horizon. Most days I fall in bed from emotional exhaustion, rather than physical. And then there are nights like tonight when I see it a bit clearer...and I see that God is using my child to teach me more about Him every day.

Tonight, I am thankful for a God who loves who loves me through my tantrums.

Happily,
Beverly

I Will Remember You...

2011-02-24T10:43:00.001-05:00

Enough said.

Happily,
Bev

Amore, Amore, Amore!

2011-02-15T21:39:00.004-05:00

Our Happy Valentine's Day started off with ROSES for me (see above) and flowers and a ladybug for the kiddo! (see below).

After school the girlie and I made Valentine Cookies --- please don't ask me why her tongue is green - I have no idea!

And then for dinner we had spaghetti and fruit with chocolate!

Ummm...strawberries and chocolate! She barely saved some for her daddy to enjoy -- but she did save a little!

Nothing tops a romantic Valentine day off better than Spongebob and his Valentine Special. We watched it and Beauty in the Beast for a fun family Valentine Movie night!

We had a blast! It is what the day is all about for me -- Love, Love, Love!

Happily!
Beverly

"I hope it's nice where you are. I hope the sun shines and it's a beautiful day and something reminds you and you wish you had stayed..." t.swift

Someone Bring Some Tylenol....The Fever Has Hit The House!

2011-02-10T18:58:00.006-05:00

I have spent all day mulling over a post...then deciding against it and trying a new idea...I finally gave up.

Until just now--- I logged into the computer to check the email and such and across from me sat my child...my sweet six and a half year old....doing this...
She was doing her Valentines for the class... and then she looked like this..and then I discovered what she was staring at so intently...
Lordy, Mercy...Bieber Fever has hit my house...I need a sedative!

Happily,
Beverly
"I hope its nice where you are, I hope the sun shines and it's a beautiful day and something reminds you and you wish you would have stayed. " T. Swift!

Turned Out To Be Good After All!

2011-02-09T01:15:00.007-05:00

This day started out LOUSY! But ya know how some of the yuckiest days can turn into jewels by the very end? Well, this is one of those days!

Work was hard - mainly cause I just wanted to be home - and then my head hurt for the entire afternoon. It was a struggle to get my child to do anything - like eat, sit, practice piano, do homework...you name it - if I said do it, she ran the opposite direction. But then....

(I need a drum roll - here ---- oh wait - on second thought - let's ditch the drum roll cause drums make my head hurt and go for any other instrument -- how about a trumpet - yeah - a trumpet - I have always like trumpet players....so - INSERT trumpet blast here....)

While I was waiting for my child to complete her piano lesson I found out that my bloggity idol and favorite recipe book author is coming to MY TOWN!! That is right, The Pioneer Woman aka, Ree Drummond is on her way to my local library. I am giddy! I am in the middle of reading her new novel and I have been of her cookbook for quite some time.

She is coming for a whole day of presentation goodness and book signing and oh, my gracious, the excitement is just about too much for me handle. This stuff never happens to me.....I never get to see authors I love in person - it is a dream come true and I only have a month to wait....I don't know if I can stand it!

And then, after I had kinda cooled down a bit from that news, I came home to a phone message from a friend that needed me to call them back - quickly cause it was important!! Now, this friend is one of my bestest ones ever, and she calls me a lot - but never does she say it is Important!! I just knew it was a shoe emergency or that somehow I had missed a Bravo TV "Real Housewives" special or something...but I was wrong!

Bring back that trumpeter...

She had already purchased me a ticket to a concert that is happening in town in August...Gang's Momma (this is just for you!!) .... I am going to see Keith Urban in concert in just a few short months!!

My friend is the best - she is member of the fan club and we got pre-sale tickets! It was a great surprise....and now I don't have to stress and worry that I won't get a ticket when they go on sale Saturday or feel badly when all my friends are at the concert and I am home!! Yipee!!!

It has been a great day -- well, at least a great afternoon and evening! I am blessed beyond measure!

Hope you are too!

Happily,
Beverly

Family Nights Down The Lane

2011-02-04T22:38:00.003-05:00

We have started a new tradition in our home...Family Night! Uh...make that - Family MOVIE night!

Last Friday was the first - it was a Girl's Night In -- pj's, ice cream, popcorn and Shrek -- Forever After! My kiddo thought it was the BOMB!

So, we did it again Monday night....pj's, hamburgers, popcorn and ice cream and we allowed a boy in the festivities -- Daddy! We watched Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs!! Such fun.

Tonight marked our 3rd trip into Family Movie Night - we chose Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 as the movie...and decided to be creative with our menu. We had HOT DOGS and chili! I like this idea of a theme family night, it is not original with me - but around here, it is a great new tradition.

Here is a pic of Hannah's plate!
Perhaps I may have had a little too much fun spelling out WOOF in ketchup!! ;-)

Happily,
Beverly

Why Would I Want Anything Else?

2011-02-03T11:59:00.004-05:00

Valentine Day is upon us...I am not much for the sappy holiday - those I love, know I love them (hopefully) every day of the year. But I thought it would be fun to list the things that I cherish so much about my own husband and if you are reading this, and happen to be a husband, you might find this a helpful list to aspire to as well.

These are just some of the reasons I love my husband!

He doesn't lie.

He is a man of intergity in all areas of his life.

He is patient and kind and loving.

I never have to wonder where he is...he is either at home, work or church...what a blessing!

He gets up on his day off to help me feed, clothe and get my child to school.

He stays up late to change the oil and rotate my tires.

He is a saver...he saves money for the hard times, he saves cardboard boxes and old vacuum cleaner parts too (you never know how handy those two things can be!!)

He treasures my little girl more than his life.

He works and works and works...and he ensures that our little family has all we need and MORE!

He has a strong, abiding faith in our Lord, which is hard to find these days!

He puts up with me...which is no small feat!

He puts his family before himself...I don't think he has bought himself anything in at least a year!
('course he did buy that car...but hey - I am talking about the little things!!)

He appreciates what I do...cooking, cleaning and child-rearing!

He loves his parents. If they need him - he is there!

He loves his sister and her family - he might not want to cross the Mason Dixon Line - but if needed he would make that trip up to the NORTH to help her if she ever needed.

He likes country music.

He can play the mess out of Donkey Kong and Super Mario on the Wii.

He takes my child for long car rides and ice cream just so Mom can have a rest.

He actually looks forward to spending time with me and the kiddo!

This list is getting longer by the minute, it is easy to write for me. I am blessed with a husband who loves me - even when I mess up, even when I am really unlovable, even when my deeds and words hurt him...he is always by my side. I know this same list could not be said of me, and I know how blessed I truly was to get him for my very own! I am infinitely grateful for him, for our life together and for the future we are both looking forward to...no matter what it brings.

Happily,
Beverly

Walking on the Moon... Pie!

2011-01-23T20:21:00.007-05:00

Blogging everyday has become something I did long ago! I apologize to everyone who has checked in everyday hoping to see a new post...I would say that I will do better - but I don't want to raise your hopes! Let's just enjoy this post for awhile!!

January is about over but it was CHOCKED full of fun! Most of my work weeks have consisted of only three days (a fact I have rather grown accustomed to and will have a hard time adjusting this last week of January to the four day work week for certain!) and lots of unusual fun times.

We have had snow.... and ice and tons of fun!!

And this past weekend, our best friends and I kidnapped my husband for his birthday. We took him to Charleston - it was fun and cold!!!

Here we are at the Moon Pie store -- can you think of a more fabulous place....there were moon pies everywhere!!
I think we were so cold this spot looked inviting and someone stole a picture!! Anyway.........

We had tons of fun, ate at Hyman's Seafood and Bubba Gumps, stayed at the Mills House and had this wonderful view of Charleston..and we could even see Fort Sumter from our window...it was fabulous!

We spent lots of time walking the market and shopping and eating and we even found an outlet mall on the way home that helped us extend our trip for a few more hours. We even got to spend a few minutes walking in the Circular Church graveyard!!

It was a great way to spend my husband's birthday weekend...good times with great friends and NO CHILDREN in sight!! Thanks MeMa and Papa for taking care of our little one!!

So, how did you spend your weekend?

Happy, Happy,
Beverly

Goodbye 2010

2010-12-31T17:52:00.003-05:00

Just a wish for a happy New Year's Eve from my house to yours. I hope you spend it doing something you love, being with those you love and looking forward to having a year of the same.

I am alone tonight with my child, watching a movie or two and going to bed before the first bottle rocket grazes the night time sky around here.

I rarely make any type of resolution, the new year's eve for me is usually spent in quiet reflection of the year past and the dreams of the year to come. I spend time thinking about those I have lost, the new friends I have made and ways I can be a better me in the coming year, as opposed to the worst of myself that seems to glare at me on this night.

I will strive to be a better woman, wife, mom and friend this year, I will strive to be a better follower of Christ this year, because truly only if I accomplish that, will I be able to accomplish the other.

May you and your family have a peaceful, safe and happy new year.

Always,
Bev

I'm Dreaming of A White DAY AFTER Christmas...and I Got It!

2010-12-26T11:06:00.002-05:00

From Our House to Yours...

2010-12-25T00:00:00.001-05:00

We have waited patiently...

And now LOVE has come...

And our hearts are filled with...

Merry Christmas from my family to yours! JOY! JOY! JOY!

Always,
Bev

2010-12-23T09:31:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was the annual Gingerbread making day with my mom (MeMa), myself and my child!!

Mom and I have been gingerbreading for a long time and when Hannah came along it just got to be a sweeter tradition. We have gingerbreaded with her every Christmas...and no matter what we do - there is always some sort of gingerbready catastrophe! Yesterday's house needed Ty Pennington and the entire Extreme Makeover crew to help it stand up!

Most years we bake from scratch, but lately there have been oh so cute, oh so easy, oh so already put together houses that you can buy in a box. After baking from scratch and enduring the agony of trying to make icing that will actually hold the house up; an already assembled, tidy little house all ready to decorate is a blessing from above. Especially when the activity is geared to be fun with three generations and one of them is six. The faster we can get to the actual decorating and sneak eating of the candy decorations, the better.

When we unpacked yesterday's house...it was cracked. Not just a little cracked...I mean, it had been hit and stomped and only a tiny piece of it was surviving enough to give some semblance of the house it once was. I voted for using it as it was...making it the ruins of a gingerbread house, but my vote was over ridden by two other and so I proceeded to glue and tape (yes, I said GLUE and TAPE) the house back together. Once it was dried enough to withstand a little frosting, I frosted that sucker at least a inch high. I know how my child likes to pick candy off the house, so I wanted to make sure the candy never came into any real contact with the GLUE!!

All in all, it turned out quite well. I wish I had taken a picture of the BEFORE, cause then this AFTER picture would much more appreciated!
But this one says it all .... ah the joys of a gingerbread house!

If you don't struggle to , uh I mean if you don't make one of these each year....you should. They are so much fun!!

By the way....Merry Christmas Adam! (cause it is the day before Christmas Eve!!)

I Miss Them Most At Christmas!

2010-12-18T08:52:00.003-05:00

I miss them most at Christmas.

I miss the warmth, the decorating, the fun and laughter. I miss the good moods, the gifts, the joy of just being together. I miss Christmas caroling and little pizzas made on little bagels served off a ping pong table in the "new room" with everyone sitting everywhere, eating and laughing. I miss the private jokes, the sarcastic banter, and ever the teasing. I miss the smaller group times, the dinners, hot chocolate by the fire and most of all I miss feeling like I was known and loved by people I knew and loved.

I miss it a lot. More often than not. Sometimes I wish I was still a part. But then I remember how the family of friends we had built, turned us out, cut us off and haven't spoken to us since.

Christmas is hard for many reasons this year, but I had a dream last night that I was back there again...and I woke up this morning and missed our old church group. It was the "it hurts to breathe" kinda hurt. I guess never again will we be a part of a group of friends such as that, and it is good and bad news for us. Good because even with all the fun, it was an unhealthy group, even though it was church! Bad because even through the bad times, it was a connection to a group of people that I don't think I will ever have again.

The silver lining in my cloud this morning is that we are still very close with a handful of courageous friends who banded together with us and remain our friends to this day. I am thankful for them and happy to hear from them anytime -- especially at Christmas. We were all wounded by the former group and it's leaders, we have similar scars, but we still laugh when we are together and remember the good times together from that far away time and the memories we have forged since around our own fireside!!

Merry Christmas to Jamie, Hope and Tony and Lisa - we thank our God upon all our remembrances of you!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

It's A Wonderful Life!

2010-12-14T20:03:00.004-05:00

Thought I would share a few pictures from the last few weeks of our life. Christmas is upon is in a mighty way --

The first decoration to go up this year, actually made it before Thanksgiving. I know, I know...I broke all my own rules - but HEY! it was my CocaCola tree...and it was in the kitchen, so shoot me - I wanted it up!

(oh, and forgive the telephone cord that is hanging beside it...not very attractive - but honestly it looks worse in the picture than in real life!)
We did eventually put up the Snowman Tree...and guess who likes it...yep...my sweet kitty cat! He liked it so much he climbed -- several times! I think he is now content just to sit under it...he looks that way anyway!Don't you think?

Oh - and then we tortured him with a santa hat...Santa Kieran was not very jolly!! But he was cute!
We went to see the real Santa of course!

(Now, you didn't think I was gonna give you the real picture did you? I have saved it for the Christmas card...you will have to be patient!)

Oh - and we have eaten lots of good treats so far this year...Hannah is partial to the chicken wings...I am loving some good ole White Trash and the hubby is munching on any kind of chocolate that walks through the door!Here's hoping you and your family are enjoying the holiday season as much as we are!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

Twenty Years Ago Tonight...

2010-12-08T20:04:00.003-05:00

Twenty years ago tonight I went on my last first date.

Yep - my first date with my now husband was on December 8, 1990...I know - we are OLD!!

It was a match made in heaven, but it is definitely lived out here on earth... we have had lots of good, a little of the bad, but we are still here - still fighting it out for a marriage worth keeping.

I am thankful tonight I went on that first date...but who could have ever known it would end up where it did?

Oh - and here's a little pic from last night's adventure. We went with our bestest of friends (who just so happened to have been with us on that first date all those years ago!!) to a local Lights of South display to see Santa, drink some hot chocolate and roast marshmallows...our two girls had fun in the princess carriage...as you can tell!!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Beverly

Somehow....

2010-12-06T19:47:00.003-05:00

Thank goodness for last night.

We were on our way to our church's Christmas choir program, there were carols playing on the radio and we were discussing the Christmas decorations on our street, and suddenly, my child spoke up from the backseat. It went something like this...

HJ - I love Christmas!
Me - Me too!
HJ - I really like September too, cause it is my birthday!
Me - Me too!
HJ - You know Mama, I like Easter too - actually, I like Christmas, Easter and September.
Me - Do you like them because you get presents at all those times?
HJ - Well, sure - but you know I think I like Easter the best of all?
Me - Really? Why is that?
HJ - 'Cause Mama - we got Jesus at Christmas, and I do like September cause of my birthday, but Easter is the best of all because that is when Jesus gave us the best gift - he died and rose again to save us from our sins!

I'll hush and let that sink right in for you - from the heart and mouth of a six year old!

Somewhere along the way, amidst all the pretty decorations and lights and colors and presents, somehow, she has not missed the good news of Christmas and the even greater news of Easter and I am awed, and thankful and humbled beyond all measure to see her start the journey to a personal relationship with the baby in the manger! It is the best Christmas present this mommy could ever hope to have!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

All Good Things Must Come To An End!

2010-11-27T20:46:00.004-05:00

All good things must come to an end...eventually! It has been a wonderful week of family and friends, eating and playing, laughing, shopping and taking long naps when we could. Sadly, the week of Thanksgiving break has come to an end and the regular week looms large ahead of us.

We were able to have friends over on Tuesday for a great playdate, on Wednesday we got to puppy sit for my in-laws newest addition and although we didn't celebrate our family Thanksgiving meal until Friday, we were invited to share in our bestest of best friends' family get together on Thursday evening and shhh....don't tell anyone but I think I had more fun at that Thanksgiving event than all others! Now, don't get me wrong, I adore Thanksgiving, it is my favorite holiday and I love being the hostess with the mostess and cooking for my crew -- but Thursday night, I got to just be a guest, my child had lots of kiddos her own age to play with, our best friends were there and after work my hubby got to join us. It was just a relaxing evening. Of course afterwards I headed home to chop and mash and bake for our meal the next day and I wouldn't have had it any other way. No Black Friday shopping for me...I am not into big crowds, pushy people or early, early morning!!

We had a wonderful meal together on Friday, and my mom and I did a little shopping today (Saturday) while my husband entertained my child and her friend for the afternoon!! He is a BRAVE soul! Tonight we are all gathered again at my house to watch some silly football game(s) -you can tell I am really interested by the way I am hanging out in the kitchen writing my blog!

I did manage to pull out the leftovers from yesterday...and like I said, all good things have to come to an end, and tonight, this cranberry pie and this gooey pumpkin cake met their end! It was truly a great way to end this week, with the flavors of the season floating in my mouth! YUM!!!!!!!

Hope you and yours had a great holiday!
Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

Gobble, Gobble!

2010-11-25T05:42:00.003-05:00

We are actually celebrating on Friday....but I wanted to wish all of you a very Happy Thanksgiving on this day! It is a crazy,busy time - I hope to be back to blogging soon. Thank you for sticking around and visiting every once in a while!

Have a great day with friends and family!

Living Thankfully Happy in the Moment!
Bev

Not a Clue -- But Still Thankful

2010-11-11T19:21:00.003-05:00

I logged on tonight to write something...however, I have NOT A CLUE what to write.

There is so much going on - inner turmoil type stuff and I wish I could type it all out and make sense of it all but tonight is apparently not the night. I know I am at the end of my rope in about three areas of my world...I think I need a really good night's sleep and a week at the beach - alone to make it all better. I am pretty certain the week at the beach alone is NOT going to happen - at least not for another 16 years anyway, but here's hoping the good night's sleep I so desperately need will be attainable at least at some point in the next few days!!

"Whenever I find myself growing grim about the mouth; whenever it is a damp, drizzly November in my soul; whenever I find myself involuntarily pausing before coffin warehouses, and bringing up the rear of every funeral I meet; and especially whenever my hypos get such an upper hand of me, that it requires a strong moral principle to prevent me from deliberately stepping into the street, and methodically knocking people's hats off--then, I account it high time to get to sea as soon as I can." Moby Dick

I found the quote above and it at least made me feel like I am not the only one who tends to want to get to the sea when times are trying and moods are glum!! Thank you literature...I love ye!

Living Thankfully Happy in the Moment!
Bev

THANKFUL POST...
Today I am thankful today for Pumpkin Spice coffee...it has been a pure delight today!!

Happy Veterans Day!

2010-11-11T09:28:00.002-05:00

I am proud to be an Army Brat!

Happy Veterans Day to all who have served and are serving still to keep our nation free!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

Thankful Post #3

2010-11-08T18:42:00.003-05:00

Today I am thankful for many things...but most of all I am thankful that I came up with a gift idea to give my very hard to gift hubby!! Yipee...can't wait for a free moment to go shopping and get to work on it!

What are you thankful for this pretty Fall evening?

Living Thankfully Happy in the Moment!
Bev

Thankful Post # 2

2010-11-07T20:33:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful for my child. She makes me laugh on even the saddest of days - I think she was put here to teach me patience - but I love her anyway!!!

What are you thankful for today?

Living Thankfully in the Happy Moment!
Bev

Thanksgiving?

2010-11-06T10:18:00.004-04:00

Last week was full of shopping and decorating and getting ready for our 1st annual Scarecrow Making party. It was great fun, well worth all the effort and I promise to post pics on that and Halloween trick or treating fun on another post. This one is about Thanksgiving!

I staggered through a T@rget, a Wallyworld and a grocery store this week, getting medicine for my child, orange juice and a few other necessities. As I trolloped up and down the aisle, I begin to notice all of the Halloween things gone and suddenly it was Christmas...everywhere I went! I had to stop and think...did I become Rip Van Winkle and skip Thanksgiving this year? I mean, there was not a turkey or pilgrim in sight! I was so sad. I had hoped to be purchasing some cool turkey napkins for our Thanksgiving feast, a candle or two and maybe even a new Mr. and Mrs. Pilgrim figurine. I love Thanksgiving. I love Christmas too, don't get me wrong...but they are apples and oranges in my fruit bowl. I love them both the same.

Growing up as an only child turkey day was usually just my parents and I. As I got older, I began to watch soap operas and live vicariously through the big Hughes or Bauer family Thanksgiving dinner complete with silver and china and flower arrangements and servants serving the golden brown turkey. Now, don't get me wrong, I had wonderful Thanksgivings...my mom is an awesome cook and she always decorated our home beautifully. There was just something about the drama or ten or twelve people sitting around a table that appealed to me. Later in my young adulthood, I was able to experience a large family Thanksgiving a few times and even though now, my family is just three, when we are together with my parents and in-laws we get up to seven. It would be wonderful if my child had her cousins for the holiday, but they live far away and sadly we don't get to have those big family holidays like I always dreamed of with them.

I love the traditions of the holiday, preparing every one's favorite dish, the smells of the house, the tv blaring, my child laughing, the adults talking and then snoring after the meal. I love going outside in the evening and taking a walk through our woods, coming back for some dessert afterwards and the cleanup afterwards. I love using my china, having a festive centerpiece, letting my child make hand painted turkey place mats. I love the warmth of family that this holiday brings.

So since the retail stores are done with Thanksgiving before it is even here, I want to celebrate it every day until it arrives here on my blog. Each day I am going to post one thing I am thankful for...if you have a blog, please join me and post one thing each day on your blog. If you want to leave a comment each day of something you are thankful for that would be cool. If you just want to read my thankful post each day and think of something you are thankful for as you read...that will be great too! I just want us all to realize how much we have to be thankful for this year, and I don't think one day is gonna do it...at least not for me!

Thankful Post #1

I am thankful for the chill in the air and the beautiful leaves outside my window.Living Thankfully Happy in the Moment!
Bev

Can Someone Please Pass the Carrots?

2010-10-28T19:03:00.003-04:00

Lately things have been blurry, and when I say blurry - I mean - I can't see five feet in front of me. I have noticed it since last week -- I bought some eye drops! Oh - sure - I just figured it would go away...but SURPRISE -- it did not! So, me, Little Miss "Perfect Vision" finally gave in and made an eye appointment...and guess what... I am blind as a bat!! No, not really - just a little nearsighted and in need of a fashion accessory to help me see when driving or walking or generally trying to navigate my life!

Those of you who are local - I'd advise you to stay off the roadways for the next few days - cause I don't have my glasses just yet and I am still under the impression that I can continue driving but maybe by this time next week if you see me, I will actually be able to see it is you coming toward me and not some blob with feet!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

They're Creepy and They're Kooky...

2010-10-27T05:28:00.004-04:00

Here is how we spent our Tuesday afternoon...a new Halloween tradition!

A spooky, but edible Halloween House -- YUM!

Next Thing You Know We Will Be In A Boat Hunting Alligators!

2010-10-24T16:35:00.005-04:00

I don't know what could get better about my life today! I have spent the afternoon in the kitchen with my sweet girl, listening to groovy Bee Gees tunes on the radio and creating these fun Halloween treats which are sure to keep my mom away from the snack table!!

Squashed Frogs

!
The recipe is simple -- make a batch of rice krispie treats - add green food coloring and some m&m's...then drop globs on wax paper to set up!

My hubby is a fan of Swamp People -- maybe he will be able to appreciate dessert tonight!! :-)

Living Happily in the MOMent!
Bev

A Milestone in the Making!

2010-10-23T20:04:00.006-04:00

Three years, countless emotions and here I am writing post number 1000. I would have laughed you silly back in 2007 when I got this crazy idea to write on a blog, if you had told me that I would still be here three years later...it would have been a ludicrous idea for that stay at home mommy of a three year old. Today I am a part-time working and part-time stay at home mommy of a six year old and the way I view my life today is radically different than the way I viewed it back then. My perspective on many events in my life has shifted, quite a lot, and I sit here this evening feeling somewhat like a snake with a new skin. I have shed much of the past insecurities and anxieties about my self, my life, and my purpose. I wear a new skin - a confident, happy, contented skin. The journey to here was hard, it was filled with my blood, sweat and tears, littered along the journeyed road are some old fears, some old friends, some old misconceptions of who I was then, but thankfully the road is filled with new friends, new perspectives and some renewed connections that have brought the circle together.

I could drone on and on about me -it is my blog after all - it is self-centered most of the time and yet as I read through old posts I do see my loved ones woven in and out of the lines on even some of the most boring of daily posts. Here is just a little ode to some of you who have shown up here sometimes over and over!

I love my family, my husband and child. My parents, my in-laws, my Mississippi family and my people across the river.

I love my girlfriends who know my secrets and share theirs with me too, Sue and Kim and Kim S, Stacey and Molly, Robin and Myra. I love my "guy" friends, the ones that used to keep me sane, way back when, before my knight in shining '57 Chevy metal arrived. To Abe, the keeper of my memories,Chuck and Charles and Glenn....thank goodness for Faceb**k so I can keep up with all of your busy lives!

I love my work friends, Debbie and all the teachers. What an interesting experience it has all been and so much more to come!

I love my new cat...he is so sweet and just what I needed when I needed it most. Oh - I love those dogs too - but the kitty cat...he snuggled himself into my heart in a big way!

I love my little house on the lane, the messy corners that reflect what I always wanted. No longer just two of us in these rattling rooms, there is a child in this house...with all the stuff that brings. It is messy, there are crumbs in the kitchen, there are toys strewn from one room to the other, there is laundry drying in the dining room, school papers on the counters and toys filling up both our bathtubs...but I wouldn't change it for the world! I can have a clean house in 12 years when she flies off to live in some college dorm - for now, I love my messy house - you are welcome to come visit just be sure to push the mess aside before you sit down!

I love my blog readers! Why you show up here every day -- I have no idea...but you inspire and encourage me to come back here too - and for that I whole heartily thank you! I have been most blessed by some of the comments you have sent my way. Strangers sharing my journey - and what fun to find some new friends (that would be you my Yankee Twin) along the way too!

Life during 1000 posts has not always been easy, I will admit to some very difficult struggles, to pain and chaos that life has brought to me during this time. You are all my witnesses, I have been marred, marked, pierced, broken, but I have been bandaged up and put back together well. I have been able to Forgive the ones that hurt the most and Move on with my life and I look back with clear eyes, no regrets and a heart filled with love and gratitude for where I am today, and where I have been.

Happy 1000th post to me...and you too! 'Cause if I have written 1000 - then there is a chance that you have read 1000 too!!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

999

2010-10-21T15:57:00.002-04:00

This has been a day of random numbers for me. Now, normally I hate math and numbers and anything to do with any of that side of my brain -- the side that is particularly smaller than the other wordy and bookish side.

I have just noticed random things times today -- like it takes me 24 seconds to change a trash bag in the kitchen can or it takes my duaghter 8 minutes from the time she starts eating to the time she decides she needs a drink. And consequently it takes me 8 minutes to get comfortable in a chair strangely enough after I give her a plate of food. Hmmmm

Oh - and it took me 14 minutes to drive from my child's school this morning to the hospital to see my dad - but it took me 13.5 minutes to drive back from the hospital to my child's school for lunch -- hmm...and even more puzzling, it took 18 minutes to drive back to the hospital but again - only 14 minutes to drive back to the school for car line pick up!! Oh - and in between all of this, it took me exactly 10 minutes at Zaxby's drive through to get lunch for my mom and I and I spent 7 minutes inside the grocery store buying a case of grape soda so I could write a check for more than the amount so I could get money for lunch through that drive thru!!

It takes me 1 minute to log into my computer and this morning I took a 6 minutes shower. My alarm clock has a 9 minute snooze and it takes Benedryl about 15 minutes to work into my system and make all the hives disappear.

My child can eat a small plate of mac n cheese in about 2 minutes, especially if she has not eaten lunch and is just home from school.

All these random time stamps - absolutely meaningless...but this number, 999 is the number of posts I have written on this blog since September 1, 2007. And that is about 333 posts per year...give or take a day or two!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

Weekend Lessons Learned

2010-10-18T09:45:00.004-04:00

Here are some trustworthy lessons learned from this past weekend.

-if you bribe your child with an inexpensive dollar toy from Walmart, just so you can get through the store in peace...make sure that the toy is actually in the cart, on the belt and gets put in the bag. Ours got left somewhere between aisle 6 and 16 and the horrible discovery of the missing sea monster did not happen until we got home and there was much wailing and gnashing of teeth!

-if your child wants chicken wings from a Chinese resturant -- don't go to the one by Food Lion -- they have NO SUCH THING as an order of chicken wings...I had to order two kids meals of wings to get four - I left $11.00 poorer...it was a sad afternoon!

- if you have Kohl's cash - never wait until the last possible day to use it. If you do, it is inevitable that your child will get sick, throw up on your dining room rug and have to spend the rest of the day in bed. So long, free stuff!

- if you see an ad for a marathon viewing of HOARDERS on tv, SKIP IT! It will (1) make you think there are some really crazy people on tv , (2) make you desire to clean your house with a fury, (3) cause you to go through your home with a trashbag and throw random things away,just to prove to yourself that you are not a hoarder!

I am sure I learned a few more lessons this weekend...but for now, those are the ones sticking in my brain. Please pardon me now as I have at least one more corner of my home that needs a good cleaning!

And how was your weekend?
Bev

Pretty Purple Princess

2010-10-14T07:09:00.002-04:00

This is my child, all dressed up for her school pictures! Can't wait to see the school pic - but I love this one -she is just so cute!

Happy Thursday!
Bev

My New Happy Place

2010-10-11T18:19:00.002-04:00

Here I go again, fighting the desire to write a post about why I haven't written a post in who knows how long? My first want is to apologize - but then I try and figure out why that is, because really who am I apologizing to? To you, or you, or the stranger in New Delhi? To my parents, to my friends, to the stalker who craves the minute details? Or should I apologize to me, it is my blog after all? It is my carved out place in this space to vent and laugh and share and work out the thoughts that whirl in my head and I have neglected it of late.

The truth is I really don't feel like apologizing at all.

I just feel like writing something...I haven't done it in a while, I miss the feel of the keyboard, the whir of the laptop, the thoughts that form in my brain and travel down only to appear in seconds on the screen before me. I miss the clearing of the clutter that a well timed post can give me. It is like cleaning off the corner of my kitchen counter that seems to be a magnet for all my child's homework papers. Sometimes I can walk right by it and never notice it, then other times, I have to stop WHATEVER I am doing and clear the clutter away. I am always happier when the clutter is gone...it is just an effort on some days more than rest.

I've been good, no drama, only work, caring for my family and missing sleep on a regular basis. I have missed so much sleep these last few weeks that I have taken to drinking coffee more and more and thinking seriously about installing a new coffee pot in my home to facilitate this habit even more in my life.

But truly my life is happy and fall is here, the leaves are turning and the cool air has arrived. I am finding that I have, without even a conscience thought, re-ordered my world and my priorities. Things that were hard and complicated this time last year are clear and easy today. I am clear on where my heart lies, where my future rests, how I want to love my loved ones, how I would chose if I had to chose. More on that later, but for now, this fall is peaceful for me, it is my happy place...the only way it would be better is if I was sitting on the beach writing this post!!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

I Bet

2010-10-11T16:08:00.002-04:00

Bet you are thinking I am never gonna be back here to write...I am-- I am - I promise -- I am!!

Check back on Tuesday.........promise!!!

Happy in the Moment - Reader's Digest Edition!

2010-09-29T05:24:00.003-04:00

Since I haven't written in a few days, I am feeling the pressure of a post -- but it is 5:30 in the morning and unfortunately my brain and that writing muse seem to be still asleep.

Because I know most of you think we live a thrilling, non-stop, ride of adventure here in my little part of the world, and I do so hate to disappoint you so I will fill you in on our weekend and week so far. Hang on...tighten the seat belt...it is gonna be T.H.R.I.L.L.I.N.G!!

Last week we went to work, to school, to work, to school, to work, to school, got my hair cut, to school, SPELLING TEST (she made a 100!!) went to dinner with friends, went to a car show, tried a new Chinese place and got ice cream. Life on the edge, people, life on the edge!

After lunch on Sunday (roast from the crockpot, that made the house smell really good and made it extra hard to sit through a church service, just knowing what was awaitin' at home!) we all took a nap.

I use that term loosely...my husband took a nap, my daughter did consent to watch a movie in her room and I tried to catch up on last season's Rachel Zoe on dvd.

I am now completely obsessed with fashion - NOT! But I love the show! It is BANANAS!!

This week has been even more exciting...we went to work, to school, work to school, no piano lesson this week, (YAY for a bit of rest from the exhausting weekly schedule o' fun) and today we are back to work, school and church tonight!

See --- EXCITING, THRILLING, ADVENTUROUS! Don't feel like you have missed out too much by my non-posting hiatus...consider this the Reader's Digest abridged version of our life. I'll try and do better next time.

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

Painfully Cute

2010-09-20T00:00:00.001-04:00

She wanted her hair cut shorter and then she lost her last front tooth. Now, this is the face I see every day and it is painfully cute. Painful because she looks like her three year old self and at times even her one year old self with her missing teeth. Yet, I know she is her six year old self and time is moving too fast. It is almost too much to bear, this painful cuteness that lives in my house!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

990

2010-09-17T07:47:00.002-04:00

Good Morning !!

Here's a little tidbit....this is my 990th post...that is 10 away from 1000!!!

In the words of Charlie Brown, "good grief." I never thought that milestone would be possible and never in my wildest would I have thought four years ago that I would still be here (or that you would still be here for that matter). I let my "blogaversary" slip by this year with no fanfare...but this morning it hit me that I have been here writing out my life for all to read for four years.

I remember my first ever post - it was short and trite and not something I would never dare to repeat...but it was fun and apparently meant enough to me to keep coming here, day after day (or sometimes week after week) for the last four years. This is my therapy, my scrapbook, my journal, my quiet moment of the day. I have worked through little situations in my life here and I have worked through BIG situations here. I have grieved here, laughed here, remembered and rejoiced here. I have questioned God here and I have heard His answer here as well. I have reconnected with special people here and watched some leave as they weren't fond of my thoughts here. I have meet new friends here and made lasting connections with others who understand the blog therapy as I do. I have even had a stalker or two here! It is amazing what life brings you when you open your heart.

I will be honest and say that there have been times I have wanted to "shut it down" but I always come back to it and how much better I feel after I purge my soul with a post! Thank you for reading, for listening with your heart and commenting. I have appreciated each one and hope to hear more from you in future.

Happy Friday!

Living Happily in the 990th Moment!
Bev

Not Who I Was

2010-09-16T12:44:00.001-04:00

I have posted this before - but I heard it again this morning and just felt the need to post it again. Love, love this song and the thoughts behind the words. Hope you do too!

I wish you could see me now
I wish I could show you how
I'm not who I was
I used to be mad at you
A little on the hurt side too
But I'm not who I was

I found my way around
To forgiving you
Some time ago
But I never got to tell you so

I found us in a photograph
I saw me and I had to laugh
You know, I'm not who I was
You were there, you were right above me
And I wonder if you ever loved me
Just for who I was

When the pain came back again
Like a bitter friend
It was all that I could do
To keep myself from blaming you

I reckon it's a funny thing
I figured out I can sing
Now I'm not who I was
I write about love and such
Maybe 'cause I want it so much
I'm not who I was

I was thinking maybe I
I should let you know
I am not the same
But I never did forget your name
Hello

Well the thing I find most amazing
In amazing grace
Is the chance to give it out
Maybe that's what love is all about

I wish you could see me now
I wish I could show you how
I'm not who I was

~Brandon Heath
"I'm Not Who I Was"

Wish I had written this....it says it all for me!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

Thursday

2010-09-16T00:00:00.000-04:00

I miss Thursdays
and even more than I want to,
I miss you most
on Thursdays.

Remember, it wasn't so long ago...
a lunch, a chat, a hug and then back to day to day world.
It was fun, it was friendly, it made me smile on the drive there
and on the drive back.

I could go for some chicken fingers
fries with LOTS of ketchup
and an honest -to-goodness
glass of sweet tea!

More that than,
I could go for the chat and a hug
the smile and the laugh
the moment in time away from the rest of my world

Today is Thursday
but it is not the same
I just want you to know
I miss you the most on Thursdays.

Another Visit From The Tooth Fairy!

2010-09-13T20:58:00.005-04:00

Before...

And after...

The dreadful, awful, dangling, hanging, grossing momma out front tooth came out during Morning Work at school today! Hannah was overjoyed to have it come out at school as it earned her a trip to the nurse and a tooth necklace to carry it around in all day long!

The tooth fairy will wing her way to our home once again tonight! I just hope the cat doesn't scare her away!!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

What I Did Over the Weekend!

2010-09-12T17:52:00.007-04:00

We just arrived home from our weekend excursion, which by the way, was our annual trip to Helen, GA! It was such fun. Thankfully the hubby got to go on this trip - which made it even better. We did all the usual things, like watch the parade, shop in the Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen, eat at the pizza place along the river and play tennis!

This year we also took a second trip to the Babyland General Hospital (home of the Cabbage Patch Dolls!) and Hannah added to her collection. We now have a newborn, fresh from the Cabbage Patch and complete with shoes and a stroller. Her name changes so I won't dare put it down here, because in five minutes it will be something new anyway! I just call her the Baby.

An added treat while we were at the "hospital" was running into my college roomie! She and her family live in Helen and it was such fun spending a few minutes catching up with her. Gotta love that facebook...I would have never known she was there!

We started the day out today by visiting a local pottery business that we just adored and I got a nifty dogwood plate --- I just love picking up pretty pieces of original pottery and this place is the best! Over the years I have picked up some very nice coffee mugs, a really cool baking dish and tons of magnets for the fridge.

After stopping at a few more of our favorite stores for basics like cornmeal, grits and funnel cake mix at an honest to goodness grist mill, we headed home. We got here just in time for my hubby to go to work and my daughter's tooth to start falling out! I have a feeling it is going to be a LONG night!!!!

Hoping you had a great weekend!

Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

10:09 PM

2010-09-08T22:14:00.002-04:00

It is 10:09 on Wednesday evening. Top Chef is on, and I so want to watch it but there are dishes yet to be washed and clothes that need to be transferred to the dryer. The cat wants some ham, the child is fast asleep, the husband is in his shop and I am sitting here at the computer! Yes, I know, wasting time...but I wanted to say hello to you out in bloggity land. I have wanted to get here all week, but it is a short week at work and school and we have been go, go, go since the alarm went off on Tuesday morning.

I am super excited because tomorrow is my "Friday" and then on the actual Friday me and my troop are headed off for a weekend excursion that I can't wait to tell you all about on Monday. We are hoping for great weather, good times and praying no one falls through a bridge!

See you next week!
Living Happily in the Moment!
Bev

Ringing in the 6th Year in STYLE!!!!!!!

2010-09-04T19:28:00.018-04:00

Around here, we believe in celebrating a birthday for as long as possible! Hannah's actual birthday was Wednesday...but we just kept on celebrating! Here is the week and weekend in photographic review!

Her birthday morning table....

Cupcakes made to take to church on Wednesday night to celebrate with her church friends!
Presents from Mommy and Daddy!
Getting early morning Happy Birthday phone calls from Daddy and Kaitlyn!
MeMa and Papa came over after school --- with presents, balloons and a cake!
A few quiet moments with MeMa and Papa remembering the day she was born!
On Friday night...she became a cheerleader! Here is Hannah and Payton getting ready to "take the field!!"
Waiting on the game to start!!!!!!!EEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!
Watching the football players and cheerleaders run!
Waiting to cheer!
GO HARLEM BULLDOGS!!!!!
Saturday was her party...at a local park! Here she is all dressed up to go!
Her Little Pet cake!
The Birthday Girl -- Quiet Before the Storm!

It was a great time...

Living Happily in the Moment!
Beverly

SIX!

2010-09-01T00:00:00.002-04:00

Six!

5+1
4+2
3+3

Six is the number of years that sweet face has graced my life. She is the JOY of it...no doubt about that, she is also the funny, the frustrated, the loud, the hopping and jumping, the squealing, and the bittersweet part of my life.

I didn't know six years could go by so fast...I remember waiting thirteen for her, those years drug past like a slow, tired train. And just think...only seven more years and she WILL be thirteen! I can't begin to express how the thought of the teenage years scare me...so for today, I am just going to savor SIX!

I am going to enjoy the fake lizards and bugs and all manner of plastic creatures that grace all our bathtubs, the nicks in the wall and the spots on the carpet. I am going to gaze in wonder at the mountain of laundry waiting on me in the laundry basket and marvel at the toys strewn from one end of the house to the other. She doesn't think like me, she likes MATH, for HEAVEN SAKE, and yet she plays the piano and loves to read. She is smart, kind, outgoing and thrill-seeking. There is always a party going on inside her brain and at any given moment she wants to be an astronaut, a vet or a missionary! She loves her dogs and her cat and her Little Pets and if Bunny is lost at bedtime, everything comes to a halt until he is found and safely esconced in her bed. She takes gymnastics and piano and has a knack for memorizing scripture. She likes gummy bears and cheese sticks and double noodle soup. She is spoiled by her MeMa and only like Honey Baked Ham and if there is rice in sight...she will devour it in an instant! As I type this there is a tent erected in my den and a full-fledged camping experience happening inside of it, complete with (SUPERVISED!) marshmellow toasting in the kitchen! She can crack a joke in an instant, has a quick wit that gets me everytime and loves to sing any song that Sugarland has on their cd. There is never a dull moment in a house with this six year old.

I have waited a long time for a little someone, a little face in my rearview mirror and little arms to squeeze me tight. She will be grown and gone before I know it and I am going to force myself not to blink over the next 12 years...maybe then I can slow the process down a bit.

It has been six years since the sweetest baby in all the world was born and loved and given to us as a gift from God. Today we celebrate...even more than we do every other day!!

Happy Birthday, My sweet Hannah Joy! You are the reason for it all!!

Living Happily in the MOMent!
Beverly