The Holidays

Thursday, December 28, 2017

The holidays are always such a busy time. We did the shopping, the wrapping, the food prep, and all of the celebrations. We had a busy schedule, but instead of feeling overwhelmed and stressed, I made an effort to slow down and really enjoy each festivity. It made the whole holiday feel like it slowed down just a bit.  We made the most of all the time we got to spend with our family, and as busy as we were it was nice seeing all of those that we could. In fact, I spent so much time treasuring the moments that I really didn't take any pictures, and I am not even mad about it.
 
Image via Pinterest

A cold got our family right before Christmas, so we didn't get a chance to visit my brother, but we are going to celebrate with him soon...and I cannot wait.

I hope you all had the merriest Christmas. The new year will be here before we know it, and I hope that it is filled with health, happiness, and lots of time with those I love.

Festive Fun

Friday, December 01, 2017

It is officially the hap-happiest month of the year. Our house is still under construction, and will be through the holidays. While I don't plan on going all out with decorations, I do have some festive fun planned.


Make Christmas Ornaments: I have gotten an ornament for Rowan every Christmas, and I plan to do the same for Crew. However, last year we also started making some homemade ornaments. I have one hanging on my tree, and we gave one to each of our moms. I plan on working on this little project next week so we can enjoy them all season! 

Go to the Christmas Tree Farm: I am not really a huge fan of real trees. Don't get me wrong, they are beautiful, but I don't like the mess...at least not on carpet. BUT I do love the idea of frolicking through the Christmas tree farm with my babes and a cup of hot chocolate. 

Visit Santa: Every year we go to our favorite mall Santa with our friends and enjoy a nice (not so quiet) dinner afterwards. This year it is going to be even more fun, because there are 2 new babies to add to the mix. 

Make a Gingerbread House: I really want to make a ton of Christmas cookies, spread them out all over the place, and spend hours decorating them and listening to Christmas music. But let's be real...that is probably not going to happen. A couple years ago, my sister and I made a gingerbread house and I think that Rowan would really have fun doing it this year. So, I think we will go that route instead. I may still end up decorating a few cookies...I got this goat cookie cutter, and I think goat cookies with scarves could be the cutest thing ever!

Mail Christmas Cards: Christmas cards are one of my favorite traditions. I love picking out my favorite design, adding personal touches, and sending them to our family. And I love seeing the faces of those we love on all the cards we receive. It is such a sweet way to spread some Christmas cheer. This year, I am going to put all of my cards in a baggy with a cotton ball of Christmas Spirit and Northern Lights Black Spruce (my favorite oil combo this time of year!) to make them smell festive too!

The holiday season always feels so magical and fun, and I think that Rowan is going to love it so much this year. What are your favorite Christmas traditions?

Being Four

Monday, November 27, 2017

Eleven weeks ago we welcomed a sweet new addition to our family. I expected that it would be an adjustment. However, it is somehow different than I imagined. The first few days were kind of difficult. I was emotional. I was missed the order and simplicity of our family of three...which by the way, was far from simple and orderly. But now, now there was a fourth, and any sense of schedule that we did have was long gone.


As the weeks came and went, we were able to find some sort of routine again...a routine that involved a lot of nursing, snuggles, and sorting of teeny tiny socks. Everyone told me that my heart would grow and I would have even more love to share when the new baby arrived, and they were so right. I want to squeeze him and kiss him all day long, and it is like he filled a hole in my heart that I didn't know I had.

Everyone also said that Rowan would seem so grown up after Crew arrived, and that was even more true. Overnight my baby seemed to age 5 years, and I feel like I have a big kid instead of my little toddler. He is as sweet and cuddly as ever, but he somehow seems to have developed a new "big brother" personality. He is helpful when he wants to be, and other times they both demand milk at the exact same minute.

And everyone told us not to blink, that they will grow up faster than we can imagine. Eleven weeks...I cannot believe that it has been eleven weeks. My tiny baby has already grown and changed so much. I love watching him learn and grow, but I also want time to stand still for just a moment. 

The cleaning and scrubbing can wait till tomorrow
But children grow up as I’ve learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down cobwebs; Dust go to sleep!
I’m rocking my baby and babies don’t keep.
-Ruth Hulburt Hamilton

House Update

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

A lot has changed since my last house update. We have walls, windows, lights, siding, and its almost time to paint. Progress seems a little slow lately, but that is because the small, tedious work has been happening. 

I do have some tasks that I can actually tackle in the next few days. I need to paint our back door. It is currently white, but I plan on painting it Wrought Iron by Benjamin Moore. It will be the perfect contrast against our white siding. We also grabbed some silver farmhouse lights on sale a few weeks ago, and I want to paint them black. I am no good when it comes to construction, so all of my tasks include paint. 


As I walk through the addition, I can imagine the fun that will soon be had there. The forts that will be built in the playroom, the creating that will take place in the office, the family gathering around the table in the dining room, and the snow covered boots that will trudge through the mudroom. While I look forward to the extra space and storage, I am even more excited about the laughter that will fill this space and the memories that will be made. 

For more updates on our addition, check out #fletchersgrowinghome on Instagram. 

Halloween 2017

Wednesday, November 01, 2017

I have always loved the idea of making cute matching Halloween costumes for my kiddos...of getting all dressed up, and walking around our neighborhood to trick or treat. In reality, Rowan didn't like my original costume choice, and the boys were both pretty much over the idea of trick or treating before we left the house. BUT I did get pictures of them in their costumes, so I am counting the whole holiday as a success. 



I really don't know which costume I like the best, but have you ever seen a bat with cuter leg rolls? I doubt it! ;)


Summer Family Session

Friday, October 20, 2017

Not very long ago, we were just a family of three. There was a sweet little babe growing away and waiting to make his appearance. It has only been five weeks since arrived, and it is already hard to remember life without him. I am so glad that we got to capture this season of our life. Angie Jackson is sooooo talented. I am in love with these dreamy, light filled photos of our family, and I cannot wait to fill our home with these memories. 




That cheesy grin has a way of melting my heart! You can see more of his sweet smile in this post. 




Thanks again, Angie. You are truly amazing!

Fall Boy Clothes

Monday, October 16, 2017

It is finally feeling like fall over here, and we are pulling out the long sleeves and jackets. Why do our kiddos grow so fast?! I feel like I buy Rowan a new wardrobe every season! (Luckily, little brother has some pretty cute hand-me-downs to keep him covered.) Over the last couple years I have become pretty good at putting together cute boy outfits. There is such a variety of adorable girl clothes, but sometimes the selection is not as great for the little men in our lives. So let's chat about fall boy style! 


I love looking for basics that are easy to mix and match. H&M, and Target (their Cat & Jack line is my favorite!) both have great basic selections at a reasonable price...which is obviously important, because boys are not kind to clothes. I also love the selection at Zara. Carter's and Old Navy are my go to for cute sleepwear. I cannot wait to start buying the boys matching pajamas...maybe for Christmas! Gap is a little bit pricier, but the quality is great. Rowan had those grey mid-top sneakers last fall/winter, and they held up wonderfully. I was actually tempted to buy them again this year. I also really like OshKosh...I just got these pants for less than $8! Ultimately, I try to find things that are on sale and match what we already have...that way matching clothes is one less thing to think about in the morning.

Mom Tip: Rowan is currently in between sizes. 3T pants are almost too short, but 4T is too long and WAY to big in the waist. The high top/mid-top sneakers are the perfect solution. Even if his pants are a little too short, you don't notice it with these shoes. We are going to rock those 3T pants for another season! 

Hopefully, someone found this helpful. I would love to hear other suggestions if you have them. 

DIY Brown Sugar Scrub

Saturday, August 19, 2017

Is anyone else SOOOO ready for fall? Maybe it is the summer pregnancy talking, but I will be happy when the weather cools down, and I can hold this sweet babe in my arms. I have already been diffusing fall blends, dreaming of visits to our favorite pumpkin patch, and listening to last year's fall playlist on repeat. 

I have also been enjoying this lovely brown sugar scrub & wanted to share the recipe with you!


BROWN SUGAR SCRUB
1/2 cup Raw Brown Sugar
2 Tbsp Fractionated Coconut Oil
10 Drops of Orange Essential Oil

Just mix all of the ingredients together and store in a glass jar. The combo of brown sugar and orange smells heavenly, and the scrub leaves my hands feeling so soft!

What are you looking forward to most about fall?



Nursery Plans + Baby Gear

Friday, August 11, 2017

I am getting ahead of myself, but that is besides the point. Once we move into the new master bedroom, our current room will become the nursery for baby boy. So...until then, there isn't much I can do other than fill my online shopping carts and wait.

Here are a few of the items I plan to buy for the nursery...and a couple things for baby! We have most of the baby gear left over from Rowan, but there are a couple things that we still need.




Sound Machine / Boppy Cover / Blanket / Storage Bin / Crib / Wall Art

We will be using the Ubbi Diaper Pail again. We had this with Rowan and it is the best! It is probably the first thing I recommend every pregnant mama add to their registry.

Another item that I have had my eye on is the City Select double stroller. I love that it easily converts to a single stroller when I only have one kiddo to push around, and the reviews were all great. Rowan would probably do fine without a stroller, but for long trips it will be nice to have...like to all those pumpkin patches I plan to hit up while I am on maternity leave! I will also have our favorite baby carriers. We loved the Solly Wrap and the Wildbird sling. They are both great for different reasons, and I can't wait to wear this baby all around.

What am I missing? Are there any new baby products that you have found super helpful?

Rowan Update

Saturday, July 29, 2017

This boy...the boy who made me a mama. He always knows how to make me smile. Like when he cups my face in his little hands and gives me a kiss, or tells me, "I wuv you sooo much!" He is so excited about being a big brother, and his days as an only child are quickly ticking away. I don't know how he is going to handle having a baby in the house at first. However, I do know that this new little babe is a lucky one. His brother is so full of love. 


Rowan recently turned 2.5 and I thought it would be a good time to do a little update. 

He has the silliest laugh, and he finds the littlest things hilarious...to be a kid again. I think he develops a new facial expression everyday, and they are all very entertaining. I call him my little water bug, because he will do anything to splash and play in water. He loves swimming, baths, and even "helping" me do dishes. He has some funny phrases that he uses regularly..."Of course!" is one of my favorites and he still says, "I want to hold you," when he wants picked up. It is the sweetest! He loves going to the farm and insists on wearing his farm boots anytime we take a trip to see the goats and cows. He has just started requesting to look at pictures of Row Row...he loves to tell me what he is doing in each picture and I love looking back through all those sweet memories.

I know they warn you that time flies by, but I honestly cannot believe how quickly he has grown.


These sweet pictures are all thanks to Angie Jackson Photography! I will be sharing more from our last session as a family of three very soon!

Laundry Room / Mudroom Inspiration

Thursday, July 13, 2017

So, I keep telling you that progress is getting made on the house, and that I can't wait to start decorating and pulling the spaces together...but if you are anything like me, you probably want to see some pretty pictures! Well, right now our addition isn't much to look at, but I did pin some inspiration for our laundry room/mudroom that I thought I would share with you.
I want the space to feel light filled and airy. I am a lover of natural light, so I begged for lots of windows through out the addition. I plan on keeping the colors light (probably a white shiplap or light gray) and adding some dark accents, like painting the backdoor black.




We are actually getting a stackable washer and dryer to save room. I have heard great things about them...but I will admit, I was hesitant at first. Does anyone have experience with them? Please share!

More Progress

Monday, July 10, 2017

The house progress has actually surprised me. I know my poor husband is still stressed out about deadlines and this baby (which is due to arrive in 9 weeks!) Our original plan was to have the addition done before the addition arrived, and I think that Dane would still like to see that happen. I have pretty much decided that I need to relax and let the pieces come together when they do. 

I will be honest, I am a little nervous that I have done almost NOTHING to prepare for the babe's arrival, but I am not going to let it stress me out. I figure that he will be in our room (whichever room that may be) for a few months anyway. So, why worry about a nursery at the moment. 


Okay, here is a rundown of the progress that has taken place. The basement is poured, has stairs, and there are interior walls framed up! I took a peek down there the other day, and it was fun to visualize how we are going to get to use that space. Birthday parties, friend gatherings, so many options...I am excited! The main level which consists of a master suite, laundry/mudroom, and kitchen expansion, is all framed. AND the upper level (office + playroom) is almost all framed up! We still need stairs to the upper level, but they will be done soon! 

I am not stressing about when this project gets done, but the idea of actually living in the space makes my heart so happy! I cannot wait. Dane and Rowan slept in the other morning and I decided to spend some quiet time in the addition. I wrote some of my favorite verses around the space and prayed that these walls would be witness to many blessings. I cannot wait to have the opportunity and space to open up our home for friends and family to gather...and when that day comes, I hope that we are able to share God's love with all who enter. 

Are you on Instagram? Check out #fletchersgrowinghome for more updates about our home renovation!

A Happy Camper's Guide to Essential Oils

Thursday, July 06, 2017

One of our favorite summer activities is camping and spending time at the lake. Since we have started using essential oils, camping has become even more enjoyable...especially with a little one! So, I decided to put together a little list of all of our favorite essential oil goodies and recipes that have made us happy campers.


Bugs
The first thing that comes to mind when I think of camping...bugs, bugs, and more bugs. I get it, we are out there in the wilderness invading their territory, but I would really rather them not bite me or my family. Lucky for us, Young Living just released an insect repellent that is 30% more efficacious than other top selling natural insect repellents. It is such a relief knowing that we can enjoy the outdoors bug free and without worrying about what we are putting on our skin. 

Soak up the Sun & Have Some Fun
We love soaking up the sunshine at the lake, but it is also important to protect your skin from burns. Young Living has made this easy with the new Mineral Sunscreen Lotion. I love this sunscreen so much! It seems to go on much smoother than other natural sunscreens that we have used, which is helpful when you have a squirmy, impatient toddler.

We have always been lucky enough to camp near water. Perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating! As a kid I remember how much fun it was to go tubing out on the lake. I am sure that some of the grown ups would have enjoyed it even more if they had some Deep Relief handy for afterwards. ;) It has a special spot in our camping bag now.

Keep Clean
Let's be real...camping is not always the cleanest activity. Whether you have a fancy camper with a nice bathroom setup or you have to do your business in an outhouse, it never feels quite as clean as indoor facilities. We don't go camping without Thieves Waterless Hand Purifier. Regardless of how I look (camp hair, don't care) I at least know that I am clean. AND I feel totally safe using that on Rowan...who knows what kind of frogs, bugs, and other unmentionables are touched while exploring.

We also make sure to pack Thieves Spray for quickly cleaning surfaces.


Gather Around the Fire
When the sun goes down, we love to sit around the fire for s'mores and good music...and sometimes a drink or two. Unless you are a super camping expert (Disclaimer: I am NOT a super camping expert!) you may not come prepared with things like orange slices for your favorite fireside beverage. Do not fear...a drop of Orange Vitality will do the trick. 

For the campfire lovers out there. This diffuser combo is one of my favorites! 
2 drops of Vetiver
2 drops of Ylang Ylang

Sweet Dreams
Sleeping in a tent or camper or any bed other than your own is not always ideal. Spritz some Sweet Dreams Spray on your pillows before dozing off. The combo of Lavender and Cedarwood helps promote a restful sleep. We haven't had the chance to take Rowan camping for the night yet, but you better believe that his blankie will get a spritz or two of this when we do. 

Sweet Dreams Spray
In a 2 oz. spray bottle add
10 drops of lavender
10 drops of cedarwood
a splash of witch hazel
and fill up with water
Shake and spray! :)

I am not kidding when I say that we use every single day. Even when we are "roughing it" in the great outdoors. ;)

What are some of your favorite camping activities and tips?

Customized Nursery Art

Friday, June 23, 2017

Up until a couple weeks ago, I had literally purchased nothing for this new babe...mainly due to the fact that we really have nowhere to store it. However, as the due date gets closer, I find that my urge to buy things is growing...along with my belly.

Eventually, this little one is going to need a place to stay, and I want to make his space as special as his big brother's. For the last few months I have been looking at art and decor for the nursery, and I am pleased to say that I finally purchased some. I am far from done, but the personalized piece will surely be my favorite for...well, FOREVER! In fact, I also got one for Rowan's room!


This adorable Etsy shop, Baby Blue Print, makes custom prints out of your ultrasound pictures! Ultrasound pictures typically fade after time, and this ensures that you can cherish them for a lifetime, and lets be real...they are way cuter to hang up and put on display! 
They have several gorgeous colors to choose from. I picked the color slate for the nursery, because I am envisioning a lot of black and white for that room. I also loved the moss and caramel! For Rowan's room I got cerulean...his room is gray and blue, you can check it out here!


It is so easy to do! You just email the shop a picture of your ultrasound (you can scan it or take a picture...they even give you tips for snapping the best image.) Once they receive your file, they make a beautiful print in the color you selected.


Next, I want to order some metal letters that spell out his name...which we may or may not have decided on! ;) 

House Update

Saturday, June 10, 2017

I finally feel like we are moving right along with the home addition! Cue lots and lots of happy dancing...well, as much happy dancing as I can do with this bump. 

The whole project started off a little rough (like, there was a moment I thought our house was going to fall into a giant hole rough). Our basement was dug right before a monsoon...okay, it was really only 8 inches of rain...but still. The workers couldn't get anything done, we had to keep pumping water out of the hole, and when it was finally "dry" enough to get a tractor back to our yard they decided it would be best to fill the hole in until the weather was better. 


What seems like an entire pregnancy later, we have walls and a floor and plans for a bouncy ball tournament (I don't know what that entails exactly, but I am sure Rowan will love it). I am starting to be able to envision us in the space, and that has me excited. 

Dane and I are incredibly grateful for all of the prayers & the friends and family that have helped with this project so far. We cannot thank you enough! 

I will be sure to keep you posted on the progress, and share some pictures soon! You can also check out #fletchersgrowinghome for updates! 

Simple Summer Fun

Sunday, June 04, 2017

We are in full summer mode over here. And while we are dreaming up a family trip to take before baby gets here, we are also embracing all of the simple fun that summer has to offer. Splashing in the kiddie pool, family walks to the park, and trips to the local ice cream shop are just some of the things that we have enjoyed already this summer...and I am sure we will do all of those countless more times before the season is over.


Sometimes the backyard can offer the most summer fun, and I am looking forward to this summer even more than the last. Rowan is at the age where everything is an adventure. It is such a delight to watch him explore. Kids are only little for such a little while, and I want to soak it all up! Here are a few of the things we are looking forward to: 

Chasing fireflies
Making homemade popsicles
Having a water balloon fight
Cooking s'mores over the campfire
Going to the drive-in
Visiting all of the parks in town
Camping at the lake
Pedal boating on Papa's pond
Coloring with sidewalk chalk
Trying new sno cone flavors
Building a sand castle at the beach
Having a picnic
Picking peaches at the local orchard

We are lucky to live in an area that has a lot of outdoor fun, but I am also hoping to squeeze in a few trips to the library...on those days when the heat is just too much. What are your favorite summertime activities? I would love some suggestions to add to my list! Jessica Garvin from Garvin and Co. has a tradition of writing down a summer bucket list, which is a really cute idea if your kids are bigger. What a fun way to keep them excited about the season. If I did that with Rowan the list would only consist of swimming. For now I will make the list and plan the fun. ;)

Faves

Friday, May 26, 2017

Who is ready for the weekend? We have some fun stuff planned and I know Rowan is going to enjoy it. I can't wait to spend the whole weekend with my babe and our baby big boy.

I thought I would share some favorites with you. Hope you enjoy!


These swaddle sacks from Fawn and Sage are so cute. I remember how much Rowan loved to be swaddled. This time around I want to keep a nice little collection handy. I love the design of these and the fact that they come with a matching hat!

The Magnolia Journal is easily one of my favorite magazines these days. It is filled with inspiration...and it actually reads more like a book than a magazine. I really look forward to curling up with the quarterly issues and reading every word.

I am going to be living in light weight dresses this summer. This simple maxi dress looks perfect for the warmer season!

I have been gathering nursery inspiration, and while we are no where close to starting that room (because it is still our room right now) I have found some pieces that I really want to include. This sign from House of Belonging is calling my name. It will fit perfectly over the baby's crib!

Rowan is always asking for "ice cweam" and he loves strawberries, so this recipe may be perfect! We are going to the local strawberry patch this weekend to do some picking, and I plan to make some yummy frozen yogurt pops right away...he doesn't have to know that it isn't really ice cream! 



Master Bathroom Tile

Tuesday, May 16, 2017

Okay, the house project has so far consisted of removing the patio off of the back of the house, cutting down a tree, digging a hole for the basement, refilling said hole, and praying that the rain stops and our back yard dries up so we can dig again. 

However, lack of progress does not mean lack of planning...and planning for pretty things may be the only way I keep my sanity. I am not the gal to come to for the building details like lumber and drywall and whatnot. I am more worried about what it is going to look like when the whole project is finished, and that means I am focused on the tile and flooring and paint. I have been pinning lots of inspiration, and recently got some tile samples in the mail that are beautiful!

I am really wanting a clean, bright, farmhouse look in the addition. I found these beautiful floor tiles that feel natural, and not too dark. Floor & Decor has great choices to choose from! I originally searched there site looking for tile for our shower, but ended up finding some for the floor as well. Dane wanted something textured and natural, and I wanted subway tile. After lots of scrolling I fell in love with the idea of pebble tiles on the floor and the herringbone subway tile for the walls! It is a pretty combination both of our wishlists. Don't you agree?! 


I love the gray tones that could easily be changed up a bit with some different wall colors or bright accessories. I like to switch up art work and such, so a neutral base is a good place to start! 
So, hopefully ordering tile samples counts as progress! I am imagining my family doing life in the new addition, but it will be so much better when I start to see walls going up. I promise I will share details as we continue...just pray that we get to do that soon! I am doing my very best not to stress out about it. 

"For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything."
Hebrews 3:4

Family Fun Day

Tuesday, May 02, 2017

Over the weekend we decided to take a little trip to visit The Magic House. We have broke ground on our home addition, but it has been both problematic and stressful. A little time away was what we all needed. Plus, there may not be much time for fun family trips once the building begins. 

A little lot of rain didn't keep us from having fun. The Magic House was loaded with fun things for Rowan to do. He especially loved the water table. Luckily, they have drains in the floor...he wasn't exactly good at keeping water in the table. He also loved the kid sized grocery store, where he loaded up on milk...I am not surprised, and he was super proud of himself for climbing through wavy jungle gym. 


Sometime you just have to step away from the stress and have a family fun day! There is nothing I enjoy more than watching this boy learn and use his imagination.

Finding Balance

Friday, April 28, 2017

Sometimes we women try to do all the things. I don't know about you, but I feel like I can only keep a few parts of my life organized and functioning smoothly at a time. I feel like it really comes down to how you feel at the end of the day. If I feel like I have neglected my house or my business, I will put extra effort in that area the next day. This is something that I am constantly working on...trying to keep it together. I have personally become more willing to say no to things that don't make me feel fulfilled or that take up time that I could be spending doing something that I love. At the end of the day, I want to feel like I have lived a day of purpose.

While trying to be better at balancing life, I have read several books with tips and life lessons to encourage mindful decision making and thoughtful use of time. And I was so excited to learn about Oola for Women. What is Oola? Well according to the authors, Oola is that state of awesomeness you experience when your life is balanced and growing in all the key areas of health and well-being. Sign me up for this awesomeness, please! The book talks about finding balance in the seven key areas of life: faith, family, friends, fun, field, fitness, and finance. (Oh, and for all of my oily friends out there...they have an entire line of Young Living Essential Oils that correspond with each of those areas...that is actually how I first heard of Oola.) 


This book is filled with encouragement for women seeking a balanced life, and the personal stories within the pages have both made me cry and given me so much hope! I am pretty much recommending it to every woman I know! :) 

You can preorder your own copy from Barnes and Noble or Amazon! And even if you don't think you need any help in the balancing life department, I encourage you to follow oolalife on Instagram! Everyone could use some positive reminders once in a while, mmmiright?  

20 Weeks

Wednesday, April 26, 2017

This pregnancy is really flying by! I cannot believe we are halfway done, and will be meeting our new baby boy in a few short months. Part of me hopes that September would just hurry up and get here so I can snuggle and kiss this babe...and then there is the other part of me...the one that realizes we have a lot of stuff to get done and a lot of fun to be had as a family of three before baby bear makes his appearance. Oh, and he still has no name...in case you were wondering.


I am no longer sick, but I was really expecting to get some energy back after we made it to the second trimester. I guess chasing a toddler around pretty much takes care of that. I am going to have my hands full once the baby arrives...he is already an active little thing. I have been feeling him move around for the last couple of weeks, and it is so much fun! And we got to see all of his squirming today, at our 20 week ultrasound. 

I have been craving ice cold water and vegetables...in fact, I may or may not have purchased this pretty cook book in the middle of one of my cravings for asparagus. Amazon Prime is such an enabler. As far as getting the house ready...that is supposed to start this week! I cannot wait, but I also feel like our lives are about to get a lot more hectic. I will be sharing all of those details soon!  

Easter Basket

Thursday, March 30, 2017

Easter is right around the corner and I am trying to get some goodies together for Rowan's basket. Putting together his Easter basket has become one of my favorite traditions. Honestly, I would rather give him a few small gifts, than a ton of sweet treats...mainly because Dane and I are the ones that have to deal with sugary Rowan at the end of the day. However, I have included a few of his favorite snacks in years past. This year that might be a bunch of bananas...he is always asking for them! Here is a rundown of what I have been eyeing this year.


We are still using this basket from Target that I picked up a couple years ago. It looks so cute filled with Easter grass, and it serves as storage throughout the year!

Disclaimer: I am not usually this organized when it comes to Easter, but I have already grabbed a couple of these goodies. SUCCESS! Now watch me wait until the very last minute to get the rest of it together...and don't even ask me what we are wearing! 

It's a...

Tuesday, March 21, 2017

BOY! We are excited to share that we will be welcoming another sweet boy to our family in September! 



I will be honest, I had a feeling this baby was a girl, (only based on the fact that the pregnancy has been much different than my first) but I was so excited to find out that Rowan was getting a little brother. I can already imagine all of the messes and fun they will make together. 

Thank you for all of the prayers and good wishes for this precious babe. 

Color Inspiration

Wednesday, March 08, 2017

We have been spoiled with some beautiful weather during these winter months. I have been longing to open all the windows, breathe in the fresh air, and pretend that spring is here to stay. I can't wait until our neighborhood awakens with green grass and flowers and leaves filling the trees. Luckily, we don't have to wait for spring to add some green to our lives. With the addition about to begin, I have had decor and home design on my mind a lot lately. Clean, crisp whites, fresh greens, and natural light give me all the heart eyes! 

Pantone recently announced their color of the year, Greenery, and I am a fan. I thought I would share some tips on how to incorporate the color into your space. Painting a room green may not be your thing, but there are lots of other ways to add a splash of the trending color. (Disclaimer: I am NOT a design expert...this is just how I would use the color in my space.)


Find a collection of little green accents: I love the idea of grouping a bunch of green books together. This can be a very inexpensive addition to your space. Go on a hunt at your local thrift store or yard sales to find old books with green covers. Even if you have no intention of reading them, they will make a creative statement. 

Find a fun piece of green furniture: Add a colorful couch to an otherwise neutral space. There are so many spaces that this would work in...exposed brick anyone!? Don't know where to find a green couch? This one from IKEA is perfect! You could also find a cool green chair to pair with an existing leather couch, or to stick in the corner of a room to create a little reading nook. The options are endless! 

DIY some green furniture: Don't want to go out and spend a ton of money on a green furniture that you may get tired of after a year? That is totally understandable. Hit up your local thrift store to find a piece of furniture that could use some TLC. A couple coats of green paint will have you on trend with color of the year. And there is no shame in repainting it down the road if your tastes change! 

Paint a green accent wall: One quick and easy way to add a splash of color to any space is paint. However, instead of painting a whole room green, try a small area of the room. I love the example above, because the green is hidden and unexpected, but it adds so much personality to the space. 

I must have flowers always and always. - Claude Monet

The easiest (and probably my favorite) way to get some greenery in your life, is to invest in some plants. I love the look of fresh flowers on the counter or a cute succulent in the window. Plants always seem to add life to any space! 

These tips could really be used with any color that you wish to incorporate into your space. The key to a happy home is creating a space that you love and feel comfortable in. :) 

Oh Brother...or Sister

Sunday, March 05, 2017

Rowan has some exciting news to share...


We are going to be adding a baby brother or sister to our "goop skeezes" in September. 
Rowan loves a good group squeeze.

We are so excited to be adding to our family. I am sure Rowan is going to be the sweetest big brother, and I can't wait to watch our babes become the best of friends. 

Also, Row is nearly impossible to photograph...he kept getting distracted by baby goats and crunchy leaves.


Hope you all are enjoying your weekend! 

Home Sweet Home

Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Our sweet little house has served us well for the last 5 years, but we are ready for a little bit of a change. Over the past few months our home has felt a bit more cramped. So....we are adding on! Not where you thought that was going? I am still a little surprised myself. We have long been dreaming of the day when we found a little place nestled in the country. However, with that dreaming, came a feeling that our home was just not...well, home. Instead, it felt more like a waiting place until we got to where we wanted to be. We are not quite ready to commit to our forever homestead, so we decided to turn our little house into something that we loved and weren't waiting and dreaming to leave. 


Once the decision was made, it seemed like the best plan we had ever thought of. We quickly drew up plans and have been dreaming of our new space...plus, doing a lot of adulty stuff that comes with it. I can't wait to share all of the fun details with you!

Grown Up Art

Sunday, February 05, 2017

When I was younger I loved DIY art. I would buy paint and canvases and make all sorts of "masterpieces" for my room. As I have grown up, my tastes have changed, and I have developed an appreciation for beautiful, well crafted art. It seems that I am especially drawn to watercolor prints, photography, and signs with beautiful words and calligraphy...and I love the mixture of canvases and frames. Below are just a few of the pieces that I am loving right now.


1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5

The thought of a beautiful gallery wall filled with art, family pictures, and some fun decor is giving me all the heart eyes!

A Curious Boy to Celebrate

Monday, January 09, 2017

Our curious little man turned TWO a couple weeks ago, and we finally got to celebrate over the weekend. Rowan is obsessed with Curious George, and I had decided a few months ago that I wanted to somehow incorporate George into his birthday party. We decided to serve some of George's favorite treats. We had a banana split bar, donuts, a little cake for the birthday boy, and some banana shaped cookies for guests to take home. My mom made the birthday cake, and it turned out so wonderful! Rowan LOVED it!





I kept the decorations pretty simple, and I love how it turned out. I was so excited to find a bunch of awesome quotes about curiosity and make up prints to display on the cake table. Rowan is also in love with "ba-oooons" and we had plenty there! We had TONS of yellow balloons and clear balloons filled with yellow confetti...which the kids loved! They are fun to pop, but not as much fun to clean up! 

Rowan had the best time celebrating his birthday with so many of his family and friends, and he sure was tired afterwards! 

"Blessed are the curious, for they shall have adventures." - L. Drachman