Saturday, December 25, 2010

It's a...........

While my husband's job is coming to a close this next week, I know God's promises out weigh any fears I have.  I am choosing to trust him and trying to look forward to see what He has in store for us.  I don't wish we had to go through this again but I suppose it's necessary for our growth and greater purpose.

June 2009, I went to a prayer night where three women asked if they could pray for me.  Earlier that day Kai told me to turn to a verse in the Bible in which I felt God speaking to me about a baby girl.  I put that promise away in my heart.  At the prayer night later the women prayed for me without asking what I needed.  They all said they say a baby wanted, a baby girl. It was God's second confirmation to me. But why then?

Fast forward to this summer.  I requested three things to God. First that Devin would get a job by May, Second that we would move out by July, and Third that I would get pregnant with our last child by September (only if Devin has a job with benefits of course!)  Well God answered two of them and by September I laid my third prayer to rest since he had a job but no benefits.  I guess we'll try later on.  Well you know the end, somehow I ended up pregnant while trying not to!  So the faith adventure begins but He did answer all three prayers!

Since then Kai has told me he wants a baby sister and prays about it daily. He even made a song up about it.  I told him that he doesn't know if he'll get one unless God told him.  And he said that God did, and told him to 'Use His Faith'.

So last week we were told 80% Girl.  I'm pretty confident that is exactly what she is!  So two years from my first promise is when she is due:

June 2011

How we told my parents:

Photobucket
Photobucket

Thursday, December 16, 2010

TUTU SALE!

Lots of Tutus going for $14.99 and will be shipped that day!  It's a great deal as I'm trying to clear out all my inventory so I can make room for baby clothes in that closet! 

So check them out! Sweetlilytutus.etsy.com


By the way, stay tuned on Christmas Day as I reveal the gender of our child!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Encouraging Devotion for Moms

When I was a young mom, I was desperate for a formula. I truly thought there must be a formula I could plug my family into that would yield great kids. And there were plenty of moms that tried to convince me they had the formula.

"Bottle feed and never let them sleep in your bed."
"Breastfeed until they are 3 and give them the security of sleeping between you and your husband every night."
"Don't ever send them to pre-school. It will be detrimental to their social development."
"Send them to pre-school right away - it's crucial for their social development."
"TV is good."
"TV is bad."
"They must read by age 5."
"Let them take their time learning to read. You'll ruin their love for books if you force them."
"Step in and model healthy conflict resolution when they argue with their siblings."
"Let them handle things on their own."
"Be there 24/7 for your kids."
"Don't be a helicopter mom. Give your kids room to discover who they are without you hovering over them."

Seriously, it's a wonder we moms figure anything out with all the conflicting information and advice we get. I spent the first five years of motherhood convinced I was messing my kids up beyond repair. And it wasn't for lack of trying. Heavens no. I was serious about gathering every morsel of information I could and trying with all my might to decode "the formula."
Well, here's the deal. I now have kids ranging in ages from 22 to 11 and this is my very best advice in regards to the formula. There isn't one.
There is no perfect parenting formula. What works for one kid may not work for another. The seemingly perfect algorithm one family follows could be disastrous for another.
We weren't made to follow formulas. We were made to follow Jesus. Period.
This is true with parenting but it's also true with every other aspect of our lives as well. We were made to follow Jesus' lead in our marriages, our jobs, our ministries, our churches, our friendships, our everything.
In Romans 12:2 Paul so powerfully reminds us, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing, and perfect will."
We weren't made to be robotic followers of this world's formulas. We were made to be transformed into the unique person God appointed to fulfill the assignments set before us. So, on a practical level what does this look like?
It's a simple woman who humbly acknowledges how much she doesn't know about life and readily admits how much she needs Jesus. Not just in spiritual sense...this woman needs Jesus in every way. All throughout her day, she can be heard whispering heart-felt pleas to her Jesus saying, "Show me the way, show me the way, show me the way."
And as she does this, she loosens her grip on all the formulas thrown at her and courageously embraces His gentle voice behind her saying, "This is the way, now walk in it" (Isaiah 30:21).
Dear Lord, help me to follow You and You alone - not a pre-planned formula. Help me to see that I need You more than anything today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Ending of thankfulness chapter

Well I think I'm throwing in the towel!  I can't possibly keep up with posting everyday and I feel this pressure on me followed by guilt!  So I believe I'm going to end it here at 100 days away from 1 year and say that sometimes it's hard to find things that I'm thankful for. 

There are some days that I can't see past my own circumstances and I can find myself in a slump.  Being thankful is the beginning of praising and worshiping our God.  Thankfulness can go along way and through the storms it really helps to be thankful.

We are still in a battle.  My husband's job looks like it's ending again and we have a baby on the way.  But we've come so far and I'm not going to give up fighting now!  I will admit that I'm very done with these trials and I NEED some stability. 

..I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. Philippians 4: 11-13

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Thankfulness Day 245-254:: Sorry I've been sick!

Thankfulness Day 245::  Although I have bad morning sickness today I am very thankful for the little life growing inside of me :)

Thankfulness Day 246::  There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience. – Hebrews 4:9-11
I haven't been doing any Sweet Lily work on Sundays trying to make it my Sabbath.  It's really given me time to just rest and take a break.  I try to seek the Lord and what He has for me.  Don't get me wrong this can be really hard but having your own business can overtake even your family life and I'm really trying to not be consumed ;)


Thankfulness Day 247::  Today I am thankful that we have Christ as the center of our marriage and so we stand strong through these trials and storms that can easily rip us apart. 


Thankfulness Day 248::  This super cute Tutu with ties on the end is on CLEARANCE!  It's a one of a kind and took me too long to make so I'm selling it for only $25!  It's super full and fits a girl 2T-3T.  Sweetlilytutus.etsy.com

Thankfulness Day 249::  I'm suffering from Vertigo!  Luckily I bought Sea Bands and I haven't had an episode since!  I am very thankful that I am able to buy something to help and have access to such medicines.

Thankfulness Day 250::  What a week!  I had so many orders, almost all with the Owl Theme!  I really feel thankful that people choose to order from me and that God is blessing this business!

Thankfulness Day 251::  The Purse Party I had for the Cambodian made purses was a success!  I've sold so many purses and it all goes back to their ministry.  To think that years before they felt lost and doomed to slavery.  I'm so thankful I can help make a difference in their lives!

Thankfulness Day 252:: All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 
2 Timothy 3:16-17  (I'm very thankful that ALL of the Bible is from God, not just pieces!)


Thankfulness Day 253::  I LOVE the rain!  It makes the air feel clean and everything so green.  We are getting more rain then normal and I am thankful for that weather change.

Thankfulness Day 254::  Kai has his first field trip with school today.  I am that nervous parent that doesn't want to send him without me being there!  He loves Jr. Kindergarten though and I'm very thankful he gets to attend there.

Friday, October 15, 2010

Thankfulness Day 245:: Big News


Surprise!! Kai and Nash will be having a brother or sister next Summer!

I am so thankful for new life and a blessing of a baby.  I'm so glad God's timing is different then my timing and He has everything under control!

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Thankfulness Day 240-244:: Cambodian Purses are Here!

Thankfulness Day 240:Today I am thankful for my church and all the people that go there.  I've never found a church quite like it!

Thankfulness Day 241: This week started off with lots of orders.  I just LOVE doing orders, especially custom ones I've never done before!  God is so good and has really blessed me, for that I'm thankful today.

Thankfulness Day 242: We are still praying about Devin's job.  It's so hard to stay in a temp job and never though if they will value you enough to hire you on.  My heart goes out to him and I pray often that they would see the hard work of his hands.  For now we just have to wait.  I could be frustrated and very unthankful but I am reminded of the year without any job.  So I am very thankful that he has full time employment and I will choose not to worry but trust that God has that greater plan for us.

Thankfulness Day 243: Wordless Wednesday! 
Future Police Officer!  Today I am thankful that the boys got to visit a Fire Station and dream a little.

Thankfulness Day 244: I got a shipment from Cambodia this week.  Purses, wallets, nursing covers, aprons, ornaments, scarfs, headbands, and baby booties made from women/girls rescued from Prostitution and given a new life learning to sew at a Safe House.  What a ministry and what a blessing for these girls.  Most were sold into slavery at a young age from their families or their families were tricked into thinking it was education they were getting but they were wrong.  In His Steps International created this ministry to give these women a new life. I'm helping to sell these purses for them and they are so well made!  I've already picked about 5 favorites!  I'm thankful today to do my part in helping supply the needs of these young women. 

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Thankfulness Day 239:: Another Giveaway!

Over at newagemama.blogspot.com we are having a giveaway!  For what??  Another Ladybug Tutu and Bloomers!

So go here Ladybug Tutu Giveaway and enter!

Today I am thankful a fun night with friends and a lighten up attitude!

Friday, October 8, 2010

Thankfulness Day 237-238:: Featured in a Treasury!

 Day 237:: We got the shipment of purses from Cambodia!  They are so cute and well made!  The first Purse Party is October 19th, let me know if you want to come!

Today I am thankful that I can help make a difference in these girls lives.


Day 238:: Occasionally a few lucky Sellers on Etsy will be featured in a Treasury.  Today was my lucky day!  We were featured here:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4caf16a38a396d918c0b066b/hello-kitty-kitty

Don't you just love Hello Kitty???

Today I am thankful for being recognized on Etsy!

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Thankfulness Day 237:: Wordless Wednesday Pumpkin Tutu!

Don't miss out on this Pumpkin Tutu Set!  It's on sale for $34.99 and if you are reading this from my blog I will include FREE SHIPPING!  That saves you $6 and you'll get it in 2-3 days!  Awesome!  I currently have it in 18-24 months but I can make it in any size up to 4T.  Just because I like you!

Today I am thankful for the fall, it's my favorite season!

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Thankfulness Day 233-236:: Lots of fun things!

Thankfulness Day 233-We had a great day at the Fire Station, pics to come! I am very thankful that my boys got to experience that!

Thankfulness Day 234-We visited a church in Carlsbad as a potential place for Devin to lead worship at.  The people were so friendly and they even did a potluck lunch afterwards!  Gotta love those!  I also found a few
people who LOVE ice cream as much as I do!  Imagine that!  So we talked about all the great flavors of course!
Today I am thankful that we got an opportunity to worship there and meet this congregation!

Thankfulness Day 235-I received an order for Twins!  I love twins and it's so much fun to do two matching outfits but make them each a little unique just like the different personalities of twins! Today I am thankful I got to do a 'Twins' order!

Thankfulness Day 236-I think I get the purse shipment from Cambodia tomorrow!  I will be having a purse party in the next few weeks so stay tuned!  All proceeds go to In His Steps International!

Friday, October 1, 2010

Thankfulness Day 232:: Fall!!

The one BIG thing I miss about Illinois is these beautiful fall colors!  We just don't get this in Orange County, CA.  I remember stopping on the side of the road to pick up some leaves or just stare at how beautiful the trees were.  The air would be super crisp too.  I miss it.

Today I am thankful that I got to experience a different place outside of my bubble.

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Thankfulness Day 227-231:: Catching up!

 We've been busy over here so I got behind!  I'll catch us up!

Thankfulness Day 227:: Our house has been sick free for quite some time!  Kai started complaining of an ear ache so I gave him garlic oil drops in his ear for the rest of the day and it went away!  I'm thankful for home remedies!

Thankfulness Day 228::  Got to worship on stage with huzzy today and I am so thankful we get to sing and praise the Lord together

Thankfulness Day 229::  Took yesterday off of any business related stuff and got 4 orders today!  I'm very thankful for that.

Thankfulness Day 230::  Gotta love Chick Fil A!  Did you know that on their bags for childrens meals they have a word search with the fruits of the Spirit?  So cool, I'm so thankful that we have a restaurant
ike Chick Fil A!

Thankfulness Day 231:: Wordless Wednesday!  We've got a new Pink Lady Bug Tutu and Shirt to share!  Ladybugs are so popular!  Maybe everyone wants to be a Bug???



And don't forget the launching of our new Boys Tie Applique Shirts!  Right now we have a selection of 3 prints but we will work our way up to 5!
 

Today I am thankful for Sweet Lily Tutus and the wonderful thing that God is doing as He lets me partner with Him!

Friday, September 24, 2010

Thankfulness Day 226:: Carlsbad

After a 5 hour marathon of hair color and cutting (insert Yikes!!) I came home to my hubby telling me that the interview he just had in Carlsbad was amazing.  So amazing in fact he said this "If this whole last year and half of church interviews falling through all because we needed to wait for an opportunity like this, I could see why.  This is where God is leading us, I've never felt so encouraged."

Hmmm, something is brewing..

Today I am thankful that my hubby got poured into and i
Publish Post
s starting to see some possible end in sight?

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Thankfulness Day 225:: My Tie Shirt

As I'm tucking Nash in, I take off his 'Tie Shirt' that I made him and he says "Mommy I just love my Tie Shirt and I want to wear it forever."

I love that I made him something he loves!  Let me tell you that that boy doesn't love a lot of things!

Today I am thankful it's the little things that make me so happy.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Thankfulness Day 224:: Wordless Wednesday Butterfly Shirt


This was a special order and I love it!  Doesn't it leave you Wordless or perhaps a few words but nevertheless...I love it!

Today I am thankful for Custom Orders!

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Thankfulness Day 223:: Neighbors

New Baby Mini Tutu!  So cute!  This is my neighbor can you believe it?

Today I am thankful for my neighbors and all the littles my kids play with everyday!

Monday, September 20, 2010

Thankfulness Day 222:: Garbage


For the last 5 1/2 years I've had an attached garage, and therefore had a garbage can and a garbage service who emptied it for me.

However since the job loss, recession, living with my parents, and now in a condo, we have to walk.  Walk far, every day, to the dumpster, with two children, and lots of trash.

Are you saying you are thankful for trash Cheri?

Why yes, yes I am!

Having a garage with a trash can is a luxary that I took advantage of and didn't realize what a great thing it really was.

So today I am thankful that I had a garage with a trash barrel for so long and that I live in a place where we must get rid of trash and be sanitary.

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Thankfulness Day 221:: Sabbath

The last two weeks have been filled with orders.  I've been filled with joy!  However I realized that I needed a day of rest. 

I've decided to take Sundays off of any work or checking my work email.  Let me tell you, it is HARD!  I know that putting God first is best but it's just so hard to take the entire day off when I'm usually busy creating.

So each Sunday I am going to reflect on the Tutus and all that goes into the business and ask God what he wants, which direction I should take, and where I am not following him.

Today I am thankful that even my God rested.

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Thankfulness Day 220:: Superhero Party!

We had a Superhero meets Star Wars Party for Kai today!

 The Boys dressed up with some new Sweet Lily Tutus ~Boy Version~ Creations!





The first thing the kids did was decorate their Superhero Capes with Glittery Stars, then they wore them and flew off to defeat the bad guys!


Going to prance at any moment!

For a game the kids each got a piece of a puzzle and had to work together to create the Star Wars picture by sticking them to the Velcro.

Of course we had to have a Donut Cake as a reward to all this hard work!


It's a Bird, it's a Plane, oh it's Super Kai!


Today I am thankful for a wonderful party filled with great friends we will have for a long time!

Friday, September 17, 2010

Thankfulness Day 219:: Nurture

Nurture is starting soon and we are trying to get together our Table Leaders and our vision for the ministry.  Nurture has been a place where we support each other in prayer, get a nice little break from the kiddos, and hear a good message. 

Did I mention the food?? It's a rotating potluck and you'll never find a better buffet!  These women know how to cook!  So if you have Tuesday or Wednesday morning off, would like some friendships with other women and live in the Orange County area, please come!

Today I am thankful that this new season in our lives is starting and I can't wait to see how God uses this year.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Thankfulness Day 218:: Kai's Birthday!


Kai had his birthday this week.  I can't believe I'm old enough to have a 5 year old!  He has brought so much joy into our lives.  His personality brings life into any room and his heart is so big.

Today I am thankful for Kai.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Thankfulness Day 217:: Wordless Wednesday

Nash makes me watch this movie EVERYDAY!!  What does YOUR child make YOU watch?

Today I am thankful that I actually enjoy this movie and it could be much worse!

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Thankfulness Day 216:: A job

I got offered an interview for a dream job.  Well it's third in line. 

1st job-Stay at home mom
2nd job-Tutu Business
3rd job-Job in ministry

So it ranked #3 and I had to do some major praying because I would love to work there again. But the more I prayed I realized that I was suppose to commit to Sweet Lily Tutus and that God wasn't over with it yet.  Taking a part time job would take up a lot of my time and I would have to put that business on hold.

So I said no because I couldn't find a good person to watch the boys and I didn't feel that God was leading me in that direction quite yet.


Today I am thankful that I was able to commit my business to the Lord.

Monday, September 13, 2010

Thankfulness Day 215:: The Priestly Blessing

This spoke to me today:

May the Lord bless you
and protect you
May the Lord smile on you
and be gracious to you
May the Lord show you His favor
and give you His peace


Today I am thankful for a prayer that gives us hope.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

Thankfulness Day 214:: Candy Corn

New Candy Corn Tutu!


Today I am thankful for the Fall Season and the crisp clean air that it brings. 

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Thankfulness Day 213:: Brownies!

My Favorite Food:: Ice Cream with Brownies and Hot Fudge. Period.  Hand down. 


People ask me where I get my Brownie Recipe when I make them.  It's simple, COSTCO!

Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Brownie Mix

 If you haven't tried it and you are a chocolate love, YOU MUST BUY IT TODAY!

Today I am thankful for easy just add eggs and oil recipes!

Friday, September 10, 2010

Thankfulness Day 212:: Nomination!

This is really exciting for me and there is a great God story to go with it! 

I've been dropped Kai off at school for two weeks now and it dawned on me yesterday that I hadn't seen a woman that works there in awhile and I enjoyed sharing tutu ideas with her.  So yesterday I decided I was going to try and find her.  As I was walking to the school office I spot her in a window that is usually closed!  I wave and she tells me how to get to her.  She immediately tells me she 'voted' for me! 
Huh?  For what I said and she told me for the Orange County Blogger Spotted Awards!  What!!??  I was nominated for something?

First lets just say how cool is it that God puts her on my heart, makes her easy to find, and then she tells me this!  I would have never known!  Seriously who knew that I business that originated from my husband being unemployed for over a year would turn into something a bit more then ordinary? 


 I am so blessed and so grateful to be recognized!  Seriously overwhelmed and a bit emotional.  All this to say....Could I get your vote?

OC Blog Awards 

Once you go on this page, you will click Here in the first paragraph and it will take you to a voting page.  Sweet Lily Tutus is under the Best Etsyish Handmade in  OC.


Thank you thank you thank you!!

Today I am thankful for being nomiated.  I believe God has much bigger plans for this business then maybe I has thought.  I will go whatever direction He has for me.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Thankfulness Day 211:: New Boys Birthday Shirt!


I got my first order for a Boys Birthday Shirt and I decided it was time to give boys a great shirt too!  So here it is.  What do you think?  Should I put it for sale on my Etsy?

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Thankfulness Day 210:: Wordless Wednesday-Giveaway!

Sweet Lily Tutus is having a Giveaway Hosted by Bring Your Own Gown

This is what we are giving away:

So go Here B.Y.O.G. Blog to Enter!

While you are there check out her Adorable Labor Gowns! 

Today I am thankful for this giveaway and FREE things!

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Thankfulness day 204-209 Vacation!

 I've been on Vacation so I need to catch up!

Thankfulness Day 204-Today I am thankful for Air conditioning through hot days, most people don't have it.
Thankfulness Day 205-Today I am thankful that I didn't actually get that ticket after being pulled over, oops!
Thankfulness Day 206-Today I am thankful for the great time I am having in Arizona with Huzz's family.
Thankfulness Day 207-We were surprised by Huzz's parents today that they are going to give to Sweet Lily Tutus because they believe so much in the product and our mission! I'm so thankful for that!
Thankfulness Day 208-Today I am thankful for NO Traffic on our 6 1/2 hour drive home!  It's a miracle I say!
Thankfulness Day 209-I'm starting to get more orders, it's encouraging and fun!  I'm so thankful it's picking up!

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Thankfulness Day 203:: Wordless Wednesday

Kai caught his first fish!  It's about the size of him!  Let's just say he was a bit timid and didn't want to touch it.  We threw it back and Kai was on top of the world the rest of the day!

Today I am thankful that Kai and my dad have a fishing bond.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Thankfulness Day 202:: New Tutus!

The new Cinderella Themed Birthday Tutu!


Baby Einstein Themed Birthday Tutu!

Today I am thankful for these fun ideas to make a great birthday memory!

Monday, August 30, 2010

Thankfulness Day 201:: As for me and my house

Below is the latest blog post from In His Steps International, what an amazing thing!

As For Me And My House...

Church should be a gospel-oriented community: a place not only to worship and learn, but to share in the lives of fellow believers and build each other up in Christ. This is a beautiful but also challenging privilege, and we at In His Steps take it seriously. Gospel Community Church Saang has been holding services at our Foundation Center property since July of 2010, and since then there have many significant events in the lives of our congregation. Recently, another milestone was passed as we held our first child dedication service!
The Khmer people have been taught that evil spirits, dead ancestors, and karma are what brings curses or blessings to their families. Frequent sacrifices at temples and ancestor shrines are viewed as a way to take care of yourself and your family. That makes it somewhat radical to dedicate your child to Jesus, a God who requires neither sacrifices nor offerings! But the parents and guardians of 6 young boys and girls chose to break with cultural traditions and entrust their children to God. By dedicating each one to Him, they were declaring their commitment to raising their families according to biblical principles, with the prayers and the support of the Saang community of believers. We are so excited to see what God is going to do in each family as they walk in his steps!
Please join us in praying:
  • That God would watch over and care for each child as they grow to know and love him
  • That parents in Saang would have wisdom and discernment in the way that they raise their families 
  • That unbelievers would see that the true God is more faithful to his children than any carved image or stony relic could ever be

Today I am thankful to hear that families in Cambodia are taking huge steps of faith in Christ!

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Thankfulness Day 200:: My Best Friends Wedding

Today I was blessed to be the 'Maid of Honor' at my best friends wedding.  I was honored and it was a beautiful day! 

The wedding was overlooking the beach with the perfect temperature!  Seriously Southern California is like no other and I really never appreciated the beach until I moved away. 


Today I am thankful I got to be apart of this amazing celebration!

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Thankfulness Day 199:: Psalm 121

Psalm 121

  I lift up my eyes to the hills—
       where does my help come from?   My help comes from the LORD,
       the Maker of heaven and earth.
  He will not let your foot slip—
       he who watches over you will not slumber;
  indeed, he who watches over Israel
       will neither slumber nor sleep.
  The LORD watches over you—
       the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
  the sun will not harm you by day,
       nor the moon by night.
  The LORD will keep you from all harm—
       he will watch over your life;
  the LORD will watch over your coming and going
       both now and forevermore.

Today I am thankful that I am not alone and have a savior who is with me always!

Friday, August 27, 2010

Thankfulness Day 198: Bloody Nose

We visited a friend and came home kind of late.  Huzz is on a Men's retreat so it's just me and the boys this weekend.  I pull up to the parking lot of our complex and park.  Kai is passed out in his seat, NOTHING is going to wake him!  Nash is laughing and playing with something.  I go around to get Nash out and realize he is playing with blood splattered all over himself!

Blood was gushing from one side of his nose and I couldn't stop it!  I'm screaming for him to hold still, screaming for Kai to wake up, and of course Kai was still sleeping and Nash is now crying.  I run over and shake Kai to get up while trying to hold Nash and get the bleeding to stop.  Kai rolls over and falls out of the car onto the pavement and starts screaming.  Now I have two screaming boys and lots of blood! 

Huzz is gone remember?  I dragged the screaming boys through the parking lot and knocked on my neighbors door to ask about the bloody nose since I've never had one.  She assured me he would choke the way I was holding him and told me to lean him forward.  The blood subsided, Kai ran off to bed, and I was shaken the rest of the night.  I checked on him maybe 10 times. 

All is fine now.

Today I am thankful that it was JUST a bloody nose!

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Thankfulness Day 197:: Lost Identity

I had the pleasure of going to Costco ALONE!  I'm use to the boys fighting over the seat, punching each other, and just being loud.  My mom offered to watch them and I couldn't say no!

So off to Costco I went, just me and my list.  What I didn't expect was to feel VERY alone.  So alone that I started to feel like I didn't know who I was without shopping with the kids, I felt shy, and a bit uncomfortable.  I'm so use to having them there that I somehow I find comfort in hiding behind them?  I can't put my finger on it exactly but the feelings eventually faded and I enjoyed my time all by myself. :)


Today I am thankful that I got that moment to feel kidless again while shopping.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Thankfulness Day 196:: Wordless Wednesday Project Runway


I LOVE this show!  It's so inspiring and I hope to sew this well one day.  Anyone with me?

Today I am thankful for inspiration, it's all around us!

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Thankfulness Day 195:: Fly on the wall

Dear Fly on the Wall,

You are a nuisance.  I don't like you much and you buzz around the house like you own it.  I pay good rent and am not sharing with you or any of your little friends.

Not only that but you know too much.  You see me lose my temper behind closed doors.  You've seen me spill on the floor and be too lazy to clean it up.  You know about my secret M&M stash.

I killed you once in mid-air and I was super proud of myself.  I looked around to see if ANYONE saw that amazing swing but alas you came back to life once in the trash can.

Sorry fly, you just don't fit in here and it's time to go. 

Cheri

Today I am thankful that I don't live in Illinois with mice in my house anymore.

Monday, August 23, 2010

Thankfulness Day 194:: My husband

We live in a world surrounded by broken marriages.  I would say these days more marriages fail then succeed.  We've had our fair share of troubles, trials, and tribulations!  In fact we are STILL currently in one, that NEVER ends!

Our marriage isn't perfect but I'm proud to share these messages from my husband this week.  It shows that you can make it through plenty of job loss and instability and still make it, happily.

Hi. Thanks for bearing with me through my jaw pain/headache last night. I affirm you for being such a good steward of our finances. I hear horror stories of shopping wives but you just save and cut corners to keep us on track. Thank you for being the best partner in the world. 

 

HI. I want to affirm you for being such a woman of God. I am so thankful that you pray for me, with me and with the boys. Every day, I hear you sharing Jesus with our boys and it shows in their answers. How many boys do you know that say they are thankful for God and how he loves them? It's even better knowing that he ...doesn't say anything for approval. He is who he is.

You are beautiful inside and out. I am a blessed man to share life with you.

 

I don't know what I did to get so lucky. I'm so blessed to do life with you. You're thoughtful, caring, compassionate and funny. I had fun last night playing cards and winning a lot. ;)

 

You make me smile and laugh when we are together. I love how this new home is drawing us closer and that we are working together even better. I affirm you for always looking to care for me. I'm the luckiest guy in the whole world with a wife who supports and cares for her husband. Even during the most difficult times a...nd crazy life struggles, you ALWAYS look to encourage, support and stand by me. I am blessed.

 Today I am thankful for my husband.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Thankfulness Day 193:: Laura Rauch Photography

Go to  

Laura Rauch Photography 

on Facebook and click on Just Be Contest.  If you 'like' her page and then 'like' Nash's picture I could win a photography session and I've never had a professional family picture so I really really want it! 

Hint hint! He's the one in the life jacket!


Today I am thankful for giveaways!  They are the best!



Saturday, August 21, 2010

Thankfulness Day 192:: NOT so thankful

I've had a hard day today.  I don't feel thankful today, in fact I feel so burdened and worrisome that I'm just trying to survive.  I'm still waiting for my miracle, a financial miracle, and I'm going to praise God that He is trustworthy and has it all figured out.  I think I vary from worry to trust.  I hope I get to just trusting.

Today I am thankful that I still have my faith.

Friday, August 20, 2010

Thankfulness Day 191: PB & J


Does Peanut Butter & Jelly have any nutrients?  What if you give it to your kids EVERYDAY!??  I have to fight with the kids to get them to eat anything other then PB&J for lunch.  I try to use whole wheat bread and no sugar added peanut butter but you can't go sugar free on the jelly because that just doesn't taste good!

So....are my kids going to stunt their growth with THIS much PB&J or is it serving some nutritional purpose?

Today I am thankful that I have something that easy to give to my kids and they'll eat it!

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Thankfulness Day 190:: A Wedding

I'm going to be in a wedding next weekend and today I bought THIS dress!  It's so cute and I would wear it again which is rare for the wedding party right?  I haven't bought a new dress in at least 3 years.

Today I am thankful for my friends beautiful marriage!

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Thankfulness Day 189:: Wordless Wednesday Giraffe

Nash "For my Birthday I want to go to the zoo and brush the Giraffe"

And really how could you not want to brush this face?

Today I am thankful for the amazing animals God made.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Thankfulness Day 188:: New Purses to Support Cambodia



The ministry that I'm going to support through Sweet Lily Tutus is In His Steps.  The Women have been rescued from Human Trafficking and brought to a safe location and taught various skills to give them a new life.  One of those skills is sewing and they've made these beautiful purses. 

I'll be having a 'Purse Party' soon to support these beautiful women and this ministry. 

Today I am thankful to be able to help others thousands of miles away.

Monday, August 16, 2010

Thankfulness Day 187:: Chicken Enchilada Casserole

 This picture doesn't do this recipe justice but this is really good!  My hubby wants it weekly I think so I'm sharing it with you.  Not the healthiest though...

 Chicken Enchilada Casserole

What You Need

3/4 cup TACO BELL® HOME ORIGINALS® Thick 'N Chunky Salsa, divided
2 cups  chopped cooked chicken
1 can (10-3/4 oz.) condensed cream of chicken soup
1/2 lb.  (8 oz.) VELVEETA Mild Mexican Pasteurized Prepared Cheese Product with Jalapeno Peppers, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
6 Corn tortillas (6 inch), cut in half

Make It


HEAT oven to 350°F. Reserve 1/4 cup salsa for later use. Mix chicken, soup and VELVEETA until well blended; spread 1 cup onto bottom of 8-inch square baking dish.
TOP with layers of 6 tortilla halves and 1/2 each of the remaining remaining salsa and chicken mixture; repeat layers.
BAKE 30 to 35 min. or until heated through. Serve topped with reserved salsa.

Today I am thankful that I found a recipe that I can add to my favorites.

Sunday, August 15, 2010

Thankfulness Day 186:: Neighbors

I spent all day playing outside with the boys and inside cleaning while watching them play outside.  I've never seen my boys so happy. 

Today I am thankful for my son's new friends.

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Thankfulness Day 185:: Pottery Barn Drapes

I wish I was more of a Hoarder sometimes.  You know those things that you just wish you held onto or kept?  That happens to me ALL the time because I can't stand clutter!  And because I can't stand clutter and like to feel organized I tend to give/sell too much!  So you get to gain!

I'm selling these Pottery Barn Drapes on Ebay.  They are super long and big and beautiful.  The color is a deep olive green and they have a bit of a metallic texture.  Perfect condition and only used 2 years!  They are going for $41 for both right now on Ebay!  Get them before they are gone (so I can come hunt you down years from now when I wished I kept them!)

Today I am thankful that I was able to own such beautiful drapes.

Friday, August 13, 2010

Thankfulness Day 184:: New Place

I am really enjoying our new place.  I just want to sit here and do nothing because it's so calming knowing that we aren't burdening my parents and the kids aren't getting into their things.  The boys play outside everyday and are making lots of new neighbor friends.  So far I'm feeling very thankful for it all!

Today I am thankful for our new place.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Thankfulness Day 183:: Happy Nails

ATTENTION::  A GREAT DEAL!



If you live in Orange County, you have to check out Candice at Happy Nails in Foothill Ranch.  She offers a Recession Deal Thursday where a 1 hour facial with a mask costs only $40 and if you add on a 15 massage it's only $10 more!  So that's 1 hour 15 minutes for $50 and it's really relaxing!  She is great, super nice, and I would go there again for sure!

Today I am thankful that my dad blessed me with a facial.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Thankfulness Day 182:: Wordless Wednesday



Toy Story Mania, my favorite ride when I'm with the kiddos at Disneyland!

Today I am thankful for my disneyland passes.
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