Paisley Peacock

grrrrrr....

2009-05-17T15:05:00.000-07:00

For those of you who may have been wondering if I fell off a bridge {or jumped}...I have not! Sadly, my computer has. It has been insane torture. Torture.
Back in the end of April, my computer picked up a really cool virus {thanks for the protection antivirus software!} so my girl was completely wiped out. Which meant I went without the ol' laptop for two weeks while she was hospitalized and brought back to life. Then I was allowed to see her again...it was like bringing your newborn home from hospital! So exciting- I held her in my lap in the passenger seat of the car {okay-not quite like when I brought my kids home from the hospital- but you get it!}
Now you think everything is back to the way it was- surfing the net, buying from my preferred sites, checking in on my daily favs....wrong! Ever since I got my girl back she has been acting strange- kicking me off the internet, freezing up, not allowing accessing to certain sites. I am sure you feel my frustration.
I am hoping to clear this matter up this week.

Keep your fingers crossed!

it's raining, it's pouring

2009-04-20T16:50:00.001-07:00

...wish I was snoring! Yes, it was my first day back to work after my lovely- well deserved break. It was a rough one too- it was rainy and gloomy- making it that much harder to start the day. Better believe I got my double shot of espresso today! And to top the day off I accumulated a killer headache...
wishing for a brighter tomorrow!

{image/pocket memories}

weekend wishes

2009-04-17T14:01:00.000-07:00

Here's to a fabulous weekend! It is gorgeous out- so if you must partake in some serious shopping- I suggest doing it outside...you never know, it may snow next week!

{thanks/sarah kaye}

chicken + chips = yummm

2009-04-15T16:52:00.000-07:00

{White Chicken Tortilla Soup}

I made this super easy- even more delicious than it looks number tonight- courtesy of Miss Erica. She posted this recipe a few days ago and I have been salivating ever since. It was seriously so good- there are no leftovers {I recommend doubling the recipe now that I know!} The best thing about this soup besides the fact that it is scrumptious...you can find most ingredients right in your kitchen.

sole searching...

2009-04-14T13:20:00.001-07:00

Yes...I am on a mission to place some of my most prized possessions on display in a neatly, organized matter. My shoes are in desperate need of a new home. I am afraid to even show {or tell} you their current living quarters. Someone should take my shoes away from me.

How do you store and organize your pretties? How many shoes do you have to work with?

Help a girl out...
Here are my guidelines for organizing:
1. needs to be in my closet
2. would like easily accessible {open} storage...so I can see all of them!
3. needs to be on the floor

{eye candy/vogue}

happy easter

2009-04-12T17:53:00.001-07:00

to all you chicks...

easter wishes for peeps, reese's eggs, and chocolate bunnies

oh happy day

2009-04-11T18:30:00.000-07:00

What could possibly make the day before the beloved giant bunny brings baskets full of sugar to your house that much better????
drum roll please...

That is right. I am certain I am the last person on earth to do it- but it happened today...I caved and got Directv-DVR- the whole package. I have never in my life seen my children so happy. You would have thought we won the lottery. Or bought a whole pet store. Hannah actually hugged me and told me she loved me! For the first time in our lives- we have cable. Pathetic {I am aware of this}.
We finished this joyous day {or holiday to my children} with some egg dying fun.

Lil Jackson was so impressed with this concept {he must not have remembered from last year!} He had to dunk his egg in every color- by himself of course!

{Hannah and Jackson were so proud of their eggs!}

And speaking of that cute giant bunny...

I hope yours does not look like this!

breakin into spring

2009-04-10T17:22:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was my offical last day of students...yippee! Which can only mean one thing- it is time for spring break! That is right- it is time for me to relax, sleep past 6 a.m., and not do anything work related. Ahhhhh.

I will be engaging in some-
: much needed spring cleaning
: pampering myself {hair, mani, pedi}
: crafting
: visiting some of my favorite people

I wish you all could see me smiling....

{image/paul costello}

egg-stra sweet

2009-04-06T16:59:00.000-07:00

It is always a treat to pull out my decorations for the holidays...I can never remember exactly what I have from year to year- so it feels a bit like my birthday when I pull them out from storage! I love that feeling! I also love adding to my holiday decor each year...making the old new, embelishing those "could-be-cuter" items with my touch, or finding those perfect ideas from martha.

This year...the newest addition to my easter decor are these super sweet eggs that I made awhile back with my favorite friend.

Not only are these eggs dressed to impress- you never have to worry about them spoiling or fret that the dye is going to rub off.

{Each egg is wrapped up in yummy layers of yarn & ribbon}

{Then adorned with some of my favorite baubles}

Hope the Easter Bunny approves.

note: these darling eggs were not inspired by martha...but someone similiar- ashley's momma! she's pretty clever like that too.

speaking of pranks....

2009-04-01T17:46:00.000-07:00

Have you seen this??

Hilarious!

{I looove Ellen}

searching for spring

2009-03-30T16:39:00.000-07:00

With a dusting of snow covering my car this morning- I was hoping spring would try just a tad harder to make my life a bit more brighter. Pretty, pretty please!

{image/irene suchocki}

be aware...

2009-03-28T18:13:00.000-07:00

World Autism Awareness Day is officially April 2. This is a day to raise awareness about the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for those affected by autism...something very near and dear to my heart. For those of you that do not know- I see the impact autism has on a daily basis because I have the privilege of being a teacher at a private school for children with autism.

So, I am encouraging you to mark your calendars and check out World Autism Awareness Day for more information on how you can get involved, increase awareness, and even see a list of events in your area.
Chances are, someone you love {or know} is affected by autism.
Another fantastic resource to check out is Autism Speaks.

thanks, martha

2009-03-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

I look forward to decorating...especially for holidays! So, now that St. Patty's Day is behind us, I can officially begin filling my house with the next holiday decor. Hey, if Martha puts the ideas up on the main page of her site, it must be time. I mean, I am not going to argue.

Check out all the motivation...

{eggcups make the perfect budvase}

{glitter makes everything lovely- as you can see}

{crepe paper adds a delicate touch to these sweet eggs}

{this bunny looks good enough to eat...yum!}

{dishes for sweets all dressed up as fuzzy nests}

When do YOU put up your Spring/Easter Decor?

{inspiration/martha}

charmed

2009-03-15T17:30:00.001-07:00

In. Love. Yup, I am loving these charms. These my pretties are custom silhouette pendants. The fact alone that they are silhouettes makes them good enough to eat- but imagine the silhouette of your lil one around your neck. Just lovely. They have a vintage flair to them that makes me drool a bit but yet seem so stylish.

These scrumptious delights can even be double sided- all you do is send them your profile pictures, pick the ring style and sizes- and the talentedd people over at lucky me beads will make your heart stop and melt. I mean, what's not to love here?

{eye candy/ lucky me beads}

playing catch up

2009-03-13T16:44:00.000-07:00

At work, at home {le blog}- life in general- I am playing catch up. This week just seems like a complete blur to me. Here are some highlights from my week that my brain could conjure up at the moment...

{been helping this friend out who is immobile and wheel chair bound now for quite some time}

{got these little lovelies from the super cool Erica- loooove them}

AND this is what happened to several of the cars in the parking lot where I park earlier this week. Lovely, right? Fortunately, this is not my car, but about 15 of my co-workers cars looked like this or much worse with all of their belongings inside stolen. Just horrible.

thank goodness for Miss Erica...you made my week!

{eye candy/little lovelies}

sad eyes

2009-03-03T15:17:00.000-08:00

You may remember when I was in desperate need of some eye tips...well I back again for more. I thought I had met my match- I followed the advice of my deary Miss B. And it proved deccent on the eyes but not love at first sight. So- I moved on and purchased this over the weekend and the lady at the counter swore by it {of course she did, right}. One of my friends also uses it. So, I was pumped. No more racoon eyes for me! WRONG. And it's supposed to be waterproof! Seriously, what is wrong with me?
Okay- the issue is at the end of the day I have black smudge on my eyelids {I'm assuming it is because my eyelashes are long and are rubbing against my eyelid}.

Some suggestions- pretty, pretty pleeeeease!

take me away

2009-03-02T15:04:00.000-08:00

It is now March. But the weather here is still cold. I am done. The temps here are in the single digits...and if you ladies are enjoying sun and warm weather beaming down on you- do not tell me about it. I am jealous. I cannot stop dreaming of sunshine and double-digit temps. Someone please share!
I really need to move...

{image/flickr}

hold my gold

2009-02-24T15:58:00.000-08:00

This is the conversation that took place between me and my eight-year-old today:

M{Me} /H {Hannah}

Lil Jackson told his sister that he did not want to wear a necklace. And the rest of the conversation is gold...
M: Well, that's okay Jackson, boys don't wear necklaces.
H: Umm, yeah they do Mommy. It's not called a necklace though. It's called bling bling.
M: Oh. Bling Bling? Okay. What's that?
H: Geez Mommy {Imagine lots of sighing and eye rolling with this} It's like real sparkly and shiny and big. And boys wear it.
M: Oh I see. Does Daddy wear bling bling?
H: No. He is too old. Only young boys wear bling bling. Your not understanding. You're too old.
M: Oh. Well how about my ring {holding up my wedding ring} is this bling bling?
H: Uh, no. It's too small.

{image/flickr}

on the menu

2009-02-23T09:16:00.000-08:00

I am a bit under the weather today...so I stayed home to rest up and hopefully get my body back on track.

I was hoping that Miss Martha- my pseudo mother- would be over to whip up her famous garlic bread soup. I am certain that would cure all my ailments. Mmmmmmmm.

I will keep my fingers crossed, but in case she has other plans, I am all over this tempting recipe today!

{image/martha}

another one bites the dust

2009-02-22T16:17:00.000-08:00

While out running some errands today, I discovered that one of my favorite home stores is going out of business!! That is right, you can now add Z Gallerie to the delete list.

How sad...however, this fabulous store may be leaving its current home here in Ohio {along with 25 other stores nationwide} but I am informed you can still shop for their luxe pillows, glittery sprays, and shiny frames online.
Unfortunately, by the time I heard of this {I guess this is what happens when you never watch the news!} all the good stuff was snatched up. Darn it. But I was able to buy a few of these clever books...

They are full of 36 rejection letters {postcard style}...quite perfect for my humor. Who doesn't love a little dis here and there? Plus it was a great on the spot pick-me-up!

I survived...

2009-02-22T06:34:00.000-08:00

Miss Hannah had a her first sleepover last night!
It was a night filled with pizza : candy : movies : wii playing : silly stories : non-stop giggling : hiding from her little brother : making my house a mess : staying up until the wee hours of the night : more movies : nail painting and I survived!
I only had to come out and tell them they were to too loud four times {which I was impressed with!} I had forgotten how noisy and silly girls can be...my poor mother.

swoonworthy

2009-02-16T14:44:00.000-08:00

This, my friends, has become my newest obsession. A little clutch all dressed in peacock feathers...it is like it was made for me! I have been eyeing this bird for awhile now and I have been known on several occasions to make impulse purchases, so I am sure this feathered friend will find its way into my hands shortly!

{just look at the teal silk lining and the details on those feathers...sigh}

Venture on over to Red Ruby Rose to check out this lovely along with the rest of her yummy eye candy.

avec amour

2009-02-14T05:12:00.000-08:00

Happy day of love to you all. I hope you enjoy your day filled with chocolates and the company of those you hold close to your heart.

AND today is even more special because it is my sweet friend Jane's birthday!

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY MISS JANIE!

{heart art/jenni penni}

xoxo

2009-02-11T17:06:00.001-08:00

Tonight was the night that I would begin my heart day bake-off...how cute are these "XO" cookies? Love 'em! My students do not have school on Friday {yay!} so our Valentine festivities are taking place tomorrow. These scrumptious cut-outs are for my students to decorate at our party and take home as treats. Yummmmy!

ps. got those adorable cookie cutters from here

baking inspiration

2009-02-10T16:53:00.000-08:00

With the holiday of looooove sneaking up on us, that means it is time for me to think about cookies and cupcakes! I like baking, I do. It lets me use some of my creativity and eat all at the same time...two of my favorite hobbies! So, I thought this yummy print was the perfect motivator for my big baking day!

{inspiration/prettyfnmess}

oh baby!

2009-02-07T05:42:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, I had the honor of attending a baby shower for my momma-to-be friend {shown front & center}. We go way back to the days of junior high, so it was so nice to catch up and see everyone from back home.

But what I really wanted to share with was this super, fun game that we played. I know some people do not enjoy playing games at baby showers or bridal showers, but I am all about 'em! But maybe that is just because I am so good at them. But at some point, we all have or will throw a shower for someone...so here is a fun idea you can have on hand!

First, everyone gets a paper plate and pen {pretty cheap game!}. Next, you make all of the guests look like fools by placing the plates on their heads...as you can see how silly I look in the middle here. Now- the fun starts! Everyone puts their artistic skills to use and draws a baby while the plate is on the top of their head...tricky!

Ahhhh....the outcome is so good. Some look like absolutely nothing at all. Others look like my eight-year-old daughter drew them. The above plate is mine. I am actually pretty proud of it and with good reason. The bottom swirly on this babe was intended to be a belly button but it turns out the baby is going to be a boy- so it makes my drawing even better! {just so you all know!!}

{Yes, I would like to let you all know, I was the winner}

thanks to janie bird for the photos!

love is in the air

2009-02-05T16:45:00.000-08:00

There is something about Valentines Day that I just adore. I know it has a bad rep for being a retail holiday, but I completely disagree. I think there is so much more to the day than chocolate and flowers. Maybe it's the fact that this holiday is mostly in my favorite color- pink! So I thought we could use some LOVE inspiration since Valentines Day is less than a week away...so bring on the chocolate.

{eye candy/martha}

{your love card/pearl & marmalade}

{i love you card/lepapierdesigns}

one lucky bird

2009-02-02T15:43:00.000-08:00

Awhile back, I was oh-so-lucky enough to win this gorgeous necklace from the talented and generous gals over at archive jewelry. The extremely clever Miss B. over at the blah, blah, blahg was hosting {yet again} a fabulous giveaway and picked me!
I had completely forgotten all about it, until I arrived home from work today. What a delightful- and much needed- surprise on a Monday! It is super cute...the locket actually opens, and it is mine, all mine!
If you enjoy some pretty procrastination and some pretty free stuff...check her out. She is a hoot and right now is giving away 28 days {yes, the same amount of days in the current month} full of sweetness, or what she likes to call the bright side project.
Thanks again for the love birds Miss B. Love. It.

no more monkeys...

2009-01-27T16:13:00.000-08:00

Jumping on the bed!

The kiddos and I were able to enjoy a very short but sweet visit with Miss Jessica, excuse me, Dr. Jessica this past weekend! It was a very impromptu visit with our on-call friend...but we were finally able to see her new place and as you can see these two monkeys were sure to try out her new bed! They also were spoiled with ice cream from here. Way too much fun for one day, right?

a spoonfull of vitamin c

2009-01-25T06:26:00.000-08:00

I have been trying my hardest to avoid every nasty germ that has come my way. Every student in my class was out at some point last week with something or other, lil J has signs everywhere at daycare informing us of what sickly bug is afloat...it seems as though I am doomed. Just doomed. So I have been drinking my daily dose of oj, popping vitamin c + zinc tabs, and scrubbing my hands better than a surgeon prepping for the o.r.
But despite my fantastic efforts- I awoke today with a case of the sniffles! Yes, the sniffles, gasp! I am hoping, wishing, and crossing my {clean} fingers that my efforts have not gone unnoticed and that I can minimize or stop my cold dead in its tracks!
Anyone have some awesome butt-kicking germ defense??

girls weekend!

2009-01-18T18:28:00.001-08:00

Hope you all had a lovely and warm weekend! Despite the blistering negative temperatures in my neck of the woods- I managed to brave the cold and make a road trip. I ventured to PA to visit my dearest friend ashley. We had a fun-filled, girly girl weekend- with NO kiddos and NO hubbies!

We had a fabulous time...

we shopped til I dropped {literally} : tried a new mexican restaurant : slept in : shopped some more : checked out the amazing views of PA : crafted some goodies : enjoyed yummy mexican dip : watched catch & release : slept in some more : had a photo session...

It was so good to see you my dear and those sweet lil yorkie boys! I miss you all entirely too much. It was such a treat to have the weekend all to ourselves...cannot wait to come back!

i'd like to thank the academy

2009-01-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

Well someone out there likes me- who knew? Not only do they like me, but they have awarded my blog lovable. Aww, shucks Miss Ashley- I am honored!
And with any award, there is an acceptance speech expected {in only one word!} so, here goes:

1. Where is your cell phone? lap
2. Where is your significant other? pager
3. Your hair color? copper
4. Your mother? grandma
5. Your father? grandpa
6. Your favorite thing? laughing
7. Your dream last night? real
8. Your goal? organized
9. The room you are in? red
10. Your hobby? creating
11. Your fear? loneliness
12. Where do you want to be in six years? happy
13. Where were you last night? bed
14. What you are not? fake
15. One of your wish list items? camera
16. Where you grew up? fremont
17. The last thing you did? eat
18. What you are wearing? coco chanel
19. Your TV? scoobydoo
20. Your pet? naughty
21. Your computer? dell
22. Your mood? blah
23. Missing someone? always
24. Your car? honda
25. Something you are not wearing? shoes
26. Favorite story? life
27. Your Summer? lemonade
28. Love someone? deeply
29. Your favorite color? turquoise/pink
30. When was the last time you laughed? today
31. Last time you cried? forget

Now it is my turn. I have lots of people {blogs} that I openly stalk. Some I know way more about than others- so I decided to award those lovable blogs that I deem stalk worthy- and that I wish to know more about. I think you will agree- these ladies are extremely lovable! I just hope they have time for lil ol' me!

: michelle - who is always sharing her lovely little inspirations :

: erica- who brings sexy back on a daily basis :

: ashley- who is one cool bird with an incredible eye for detail :

Thanks again Mrs. C.! Ok ladies- I hope you will glady accept your award! Have at it {in only one word!} and congrats for all the eye candy, belly laughs, and inspiration.

and the winner is....

2009-01-12T16:44:00.000-08:00

{The ever-so-gorgeous Eva Mendes}

Now, I cannot actually tell you who won what awards last night at the Golden Globes. I do not watch that part of the show- that is a little boring to me. I only pay attention to the important parts- that my friends is the red carpet. I love watching everyone arrive all glitzed and glammed. And I really think Miss Mendes stole the show...her Dior dress with the vintage style pouf- yummm! Here are a few of my other favs:

{Evan Rachel Wood . : . Christina Applegate}

And perhaps my favorite thing to watch on the red carpet {and in person!} are the ridiculous- "uhh- what is she wearing" dresses. Fun, right?! Here are two ladies that should really consider investing in a new stylist:

{Beyonce Knowles . : . Jenifer Lopez}

What were your favs & favs to hate?

{images/e!online}

tempted

2009-01-10T08:17:00.000-08:00

With the inches of {unwanted} snow that is steadily accumulating here in the Midwest...I have resorted to alleviate my winter blues through the power of online shopping.

And the fresh and vibrant colors of j.crew have dewinterized my soul.

{images/jcrew}

keep calm

2009-01-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

{my motto for the week}

After a two week hiatus- it is back to the daily grind. Sigh. Back to taking kids to school, going to work, working my lil behind off, picking the kids up, cooking dinner, helping out with homework, household chores {lying}, and finally crashing on my pillow only to start all over. Grrrr....I detest the daily grind.

{image/rachel ashwell}

eyes in need

2009-01-03T20:06:00.000-08:00

I have searched high and low for the perfect mascara for my eyes to feel {wink} worthy. I am afraid that once again my efforts have failed. You name it, I am certain these lashes have tried it...
I am really not asking for much. I do not need super-enhancing, volumizing, thickening, or lengthening for these eyes of mine. I just do not want to look like a raccoon at the end of the day. That's not asking for too much, right?
I am open, fine - begging, for your suggestions...

{images/flickr}

wanted: yummy bedding

2009-01-02T15:30:00.000-08:00

With a new year ahead of me, I am on the prowl for an update for la chambre. I love the shabby chic look and these choices seem to soothe my eye. I am very much a girly girl- I {heart} ruffles, adore patterns, and tend to gravitate towards anything pink and turquoise. Ahh, the choices...

#1 Pine Cone Hill
#2 Rachel Ashwell
#3 Anthro
#4 Layla Grayce
#5 Rachel Ashwell

hello 2009

2009-01-01T19:45:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe that we have put yet another year behind us. I will miss you, 2008...we did have some nice times. But here's to a brand new year - a new year filled with health, happiness, and shopping. May your year be filled with all the very best that life has to offer.

{image/superstock}

holiday wishes...

2008-12-25T09:08:00.000-08:00

filled with warm memories! I hope you all have a wonderful holiday spent with those you love most.

all I want for christmas...

2008-12-14T16:48:00.001-08:00

Is my baby boy's front tooth! Yes, I am updating my wish list. Lil Jackson is officially toothless and will be for many years until that permanent pearly white peaks its head. I am so sad.
So, how did this all take place I am sure you are wondering? Well, for those of you that do not know my son, he is a bit on the crazy {think 911 on speed-dial} side. He is always involved in some type of stunt accident...last month's accident was falling down on my wooden magazine holder- mouth first. And now his tooth has finally decided it is time to fall out- very sad. He was just eating a cracker and out came the tooth. We never found the tooth. Jackson says he "ate it". Eeekkk.
I do suppose it could be worse, but that tooth is not going to make its grand entrance for at least another 4-6 years!! That is a looong time {especially in pictures!}

making a list...

2008-12-12T17:33:00.000-08:00

I love lists. If there were an occupation for list making I would be amazing at it. My favorite kind of lists to make are WISH lists- who doesn't love that?! With the holiday season sneaking up around the corner- I could not stop myself from making a list for lil ol'e me.

Here's a peak at just a {few} favs that made it on my list...

I just l-o-v-e this ruffle tee from the talented people at artlab

I am a sucker for peacocks {who knew?!} so these personalized cards by Farouche are perfect for this bird

Ahhh...now this I have tried on several times. The famous Tattersall print that is all over Coach at the moment- so classic. And I want it. Bad.

So- what's on your wish list?

trouble

2008-12-11T16:44:00.000-08:00

See this cute guy? He has "trouble" written all over that handsome grin. It just screams naughty! If you remember a few days back, I mentioned that I have been somewhat busy healing Lil J's stunt accidents? Well...one of those stunt accidents involved knocking his front teeth VERY loose {actually knocked them all the way back- but they were able to be pushed back into place- ouch!}.

So, they have been dangling for weeks but apparently not all of his teachers at daycare have noticed? I picked him up today with a very apologetic incident report attached to his communication note stating that Jackson had fallen down {actually rode his bike into another kid and flipped off the bike, to be exact} and knocked his front teeth loose!!

Hmmm...I suppose I should let them all in on the secret.

do you believe?

2008-12-08T15:53:00.000-08:00

This is the question my {8 year old} daughter asked me last night...do you believe in Santa? As I swallowed the giant lump in my throat, I answered the question I have been dreading since becoming a parent- "Of course!"

Turns out she is the only one in her third grade class who still believes.

"My friends say your parents just buy the presents and put it all under the tree," she explains. I assure her that is just silly...only Santa can take on such a job. She agrees without any doubt - and I am so happy to know that she has not given in to the evil pressures of third grade! Ahhh- I can savor at least one more year of creating magical memories for my children.

That is when Miss Hannah {who is amazingly clever} states- "This year, I will know Santa is real if there is a Nintendo Wii under the tree because you and daddy would never buy that for me!"

Okay, so maybe LAST year was my last year of creating magical memories!

getting it together

2008-12-07T16:32:00.000-08:00

Yes, my friends...it has been ages since we last spoke. I would love to recap the last few month's events for you all, however, I am afraid I have no recollection of my life for this stretch of time. Sad, but very true. I have become one busy mama these days...working long hours, taking kids to gymnastics and girl scouts, healing all of my sons stunt accidents, and somehow {barely} managing the household. Sounds easy but I promise you, it is not. You see, the husband around here has become a slave to his residency program...leaving poor me to do all the hard work. I have basically become a "single" mom.

Well, I decided to stop whining - end my self pity party - and get back to some of the things I love so much...
So, you will be seeing lots more of me around here, whether you like it or not! I hope that you like it.

{image/superstock}

make a wish my friend!

2008-08-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Ashley!! I hope all your wishes come true my sweet friend! I am sad that I am not able to celebrate your special day with you. I hope your day is filled with all of your favorite things {minus me!} Enjoy the whole day- you deserve every second of it! Love and miss you lots!!

{image/superstock}

bragging rights

2008-07-08T17:42:00.001-07:00

I am really not one to brag {completely false, but thought I would sound polite} however, I do feel that I have earned the right to brag about these two gorgeous littles! I was scrolling through some pictures of my children and could not help myself from wanting to brag a bit about their cuteness! So, here goes...

{magazine worthy, yes?!}

{oh, so cute and sassy!}

{100% edible}

{sweet lil miss}

And that concludes my boasting for the day. Cute, right? I am not just saying this because I am their momma either, they are way more stunning in person. I once considered making babies just to sell because I thought maybe that was my "million dollar idea"...but I do not think I could ever give them up! I am pretty sure I could make some good money though.

weekend fun

2008-07-06T17:27:00.000-07:00

We packed up the family and ventured on over to Pennsylvania for the weekend to visit our favorite people...Ashley & Brandon {Wilson & Stanley too!}

It was a much needed visit since we all have not had a chance to hang out like we used now that our once neighbors have moved across the state border. The girls got to catch up on some shopping, while the boys ever so reluctantly followed behind. Our lovely hostesses were also kind enough to share some of their new favorite spots with us...

The Duquesne Incline...an absolutely gorgeous sight!

.: Me and Ashley :.

.: Miss Hannah checking out the view :.

.: Lil Jackson enjoying his "choo-choo" ride down the mountain :.

We had a fabulous PA visit filled with good food, great memories, and irreplaceable friends...thanks so much Ashy & B- we love you guys!

happy fourth

2008-07-04T05:08:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a safe and lovely Independence Day!

chandelier giveaway!

2008-06-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

The super talented people over at Scribble It are hosting a cool giveaway. All you have to do is leave a comment on their blog! How easy is that!? So- what exactly do you win?

A vintage chandelier wall decal in just about any color!

But hurry on over, the fun ends June 30th. Be sure to visit their cute shop for more of their fabulous wall art!

why I love etsy

2008-06-28T17:40:00.001-07:00

Oh, let me count the ways...

.: stunning couture choker :.

.: darling cameo and ruffled onsies :.

.: chic silhouette greetings :.

.: sweet silhouette necklace :.

Just a few of my favorite etsy finds of the day!

the writing machine

2008-06-24T15:54:00.000-07:00

Do I collect typewriters? No. But someone at work was just going to throw these away...that is not okay! You never know when my laptop may give out and I may have to resort to those typing skills that Ms. Kolesar tried so hard to teach to me back in junior high. Not to mention the Underwood on the right might look kind of cool displayed about my house somewhere!

red-faced and sorry

2008-06-22T15:23:00.000-07:00

I am a bit embarrassed...I just cannot seem to get this blogging thing down, well, at least make it a part of my routine. It occurred to me {and flattered me a bit} after I received a few hate messages regarding my lack of blogging, that maybe I should come back and visit. Okay, okay, okay...I am back! I did not realize that I had a so many "behind the scene" readers who opt not to leave messages for whatever reasons {those readers like Jessica, Jane, & Katie P.- to accidentally call out a few} Sorry readers, but I cannot entertain and delight you if you do not show your face every once and a while. So, here is the deal... I will promise to become a better, more frequent blogger, if you secret readers will promise to drop a few comments here and there. Sounds fair to me.

market fresh

2008-05-31T11:56:00.000-07:00

What says "summer" more than crisp sweet corn and fresh fruits? Absolutely nothing! That is why I ventured out early this morning and made a stop at Cleveland's famous West Side Market. I love stopping in this market...the prices are unbelievable, the food is delicious, and it is only minutes from our little suburb. Plus one vendor has the BEST apple fritters I have ever sank my teeth into - they alone are worth the trip!

{rows of rainbow colored pasta : sweet little ladybug cakes}

{the freshest produce waiting to be scooped up}

field trip day!

2008-05-27T15:40:00.000-07:00

That's right, Tuesdays at The Lerner School are field trip days. Our class bundled up and ventured out to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo....in Cleveland's lovely 50-degree weather today!It turned out to be a nice {dry} day, but was a bit on the chilly side! The kids sure did not seem to mind. We tried to hit up all the indoor animals, but I guess the animals preferred the breezy air, which left us shivering outside most of the day!

{a few shots of the animals}

{train ride!}

in need of some TLC

2008-05-26T16:55:00.000-07:00

Oh, my poor, poor topiary....she was sent away to the in-laws for the winter {not very good lighting at my place} and arrived today looking like this! My very kind father-in-law has been blessed with a green thumb, however, I do not think he caught on to the idea of "shaping" the ivy around the wire! I was able to wrap all those branches back around and up the wire. I must say it looks so much better than when it first arrived today...hopefully with a little more TLC, she will be as good as new!

a special visit

2008-05-24T17:22:00.000-07:00

Special visitors arrived earlier this week all the way from North Carolina...my mom and aunt. Miss Hannah and Lil Jackson were ever so excited to see their grandma, especially since grandma is usually loaded with goodies and is ready to let them do whatever it is that their little minds can conjure up!
We wrapped up our visit today with perfect weather, good food, and family.

{me, littles, and my mama}

{me, aunt donna, and my brother}

{the girls: me, mom, grandma, & the lil miss}

{Jackson & Hannah with their cute lil cousin in the middle, Mr. Evan}

{the whole gang}

party from the past

2008-05-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Since I neglected to throw lil Jackson a real party this year- I thought I would share some pics from his first birthday party! It turned out to be such a cute {circus themed} party and I never had a chance to show it off...so I figured now is better than never! Here is the birthday boy...so sweet and little {and bald!} in his precious birthday shirt!

And finally...a sweet ending to a year of first giggles, kisses, and big boy steps!

birthday wishes for you

2008-05-16T16:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday my sweet boy! You have grown into such the lil man over the past two years...it is so hard to believe that I was ever able to hold you in my arms. I hope all your wishes come true bubba- I love you so much!

it's so hard to say good-bye...

2008-05-12T18:45:00.000-07:00

How do you say good-bye to your dearest friend...the one who puts up with your stubbornness or your taste in music? The one person who knows within seconds of you answering your phone that you need her, a friend that knows what damask, glass glitter, and finials are {and how important they are!}...how do you tell your bestest favorite friend "see you in a couple weekends"?
I do not know how to sum up the memories my dear friend- you mean the world to me and I wish you all the best as you begin your new adventure. Thank you for letting me be a part of your journey...I look forward to all the memories that are yet to come.
I will miss you Ashley.

one lucky mama

2008-05-11T19:34:00.000-07:00

I am so proud to be the mother of my two gorgeous children...they amaze me each and every day! It is hard to believe that they are all mine. I love you Miss Hannah and Lil Jackson- you are my everything and I am so happy to have this day with you!

Happy Mama's Day to all you fabulous mothers...this day is for you.

missing...

2008-04-16T16:34:00.001-07:00

a skinny, red-headed, southern girl. She talks A LOT and sometimes speaks at such a fast rate, her rambles can often be mistaken as incoherent jargon. Do not be frightened by this Texan gal...she can easily be appeased by pretty patterns and "dusty" items. If you have seen this friend of mine, please, send her my way!

living the wasted life

2008-04-15T15:41:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am afraid that I have been wasting a bit of my life away by decluttering and organizing. With two fast-growing, high maintenance kiddos {wonder where they get that from?!} we have accumulated more toys and clothes than I ever imagined owning! And with the weather getting nice, I somehow feel the need to get organized. I even bought some cute accessories to help me get organized {in style of course!}...like a new desk and other small office items. Hopefully all the new gear will motivate me to STAY organized!

I'm baaack!

2008-04-12T13:36:00.000-07:00

But please do not ask where I have been, I honestly could not give you an answer! I have been busy, but it is very pathetic that I just started this blog and have already felt the need to take a break.
I feel as though I have to show you all something productive I did while I was {mentally} away...and this was all I could come up with!! Yes, I made a memory board. Please try to contain your excitement. Although, I must say, the fabric is pretty gorgeous- so you can get excited about that!

I apologize to my loyal {3} readers, I am officially back now!

latest obsession

2008-03-30T05:17:00.000-07:00

Actually, I have been obsessed for quite some time, but with Mother's Day approaching, I have been a little more obsessed than usual. These beauties are the incredible work of Heather Moore, an artist that is based right here in Cleveland, Ohio! Check out some of this scrumptious eye candy...I love that you can personalize these pieces right down to the color of the stones! There are different styles of tags that are hand stamped with anything your little heart could possibly desire...imagine the possibilities!

I personally have been dreaming of a tag for each of my little muffins...with their name {or monogram} on the front, and their birth date on the back. Plus, there is always room to add more charms!

So, why don't I just stop whining and go buy them you ask? Well, I am afraid that like everything else my eyes gravitate towards, they are a little out of my budget! That doesn't mean I have to stop dreaming {or begging for them}. I suppose it is a good thing that I only have two children!

looking for love...

2008-03-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

And I must be looking in all the wrong places! I recently bought this gorgeous desk for my "office" {which I will share with you soon}, and now my desk is in desperate need of a fabulous, ultra femme chair to match. I have the perfect vision in my head, but just cannot seem to find that vision anywhere! Ugh, that is the story of my life. I just need something pink and/or turquoise in a great pattern, a monogram, and a ruffle...is that too much to ask for?!PB Teen has some cute chairs that I could "embellish" and make my own. How cute would this chair be with a monogram right in the middle of some pink damask?? And this little beauty could use a monogram and some ruffles...plus it would be fun to swivel and slide around on! However, I am not sure my budget can handle buying a $300 chair, only to embellish it. What ever is a girl to do?

a joyous easter

2008-03-23T12:00:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter to you all! I thought I would take a moment to share a few of our Easter moments...Miss Hannah and Mr. Jackson have been so cute enjoying their Easter so far. They decided to check if their baskets were delivered around 6:30 a.m.. It is a good thing that bunny was smart and delivered baskets and hid eggs right around 6:20 a.m. {talk about a close call}!

Check out the baskets filled with all kinds of goodies...

How sweet are these two?!

And here I am with my two favorite little people!

Hope you all had extra special visits from the Easter bunny & are enjoying all your Easter festivities!

the perfect ending

2008-03-21T17:17:00.000-07:00

It is finally Friday....I felt like this day would never come! It has been one of those weeks around here, so when I woke up this morning, I was thrilled to finish the work week. And what exactly would be the perfect ending to a not-so-perfect week you ask yourself??Ok, ok... I am being completely sarcastic, and no this is not actually MY car. I did, however, hit the biggest pothole this morning that blew my tire instantly! This picture is only what I imagined the pothole looked like. I had a super nice guy at work change my tire for me {in the freezing cold}....only to leave work with my spare tire flat! Ugh, I guess my week could have been worse, but it also could have been a heck of a lot better. Here's to a good, pothole-free week ahead!

is it friday?

2008-03-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

This is exactly how I feel...exhausted and completely worthless {minus the heels and apron}!
I am pretty sure it is only Tuesday and I have been ready for the weekend since last Sunday. Next week, I have the entire week off to play and catch up on some much needed beauty sleep! Until then, I will keep dragging myself from here to there and continue to convince my children that 7 o'clock is a great time to get ready for bed!

happy st. patrick's day

2008-03-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

"For each petal on the shamrock, this brings a wish your way -good health, good luck, and happiness, for today and every day". ~Author Unknown

tempting the taste buds

2008-03-16T06:33:00.000-07:00

Don't ask why, although I will give you plenty of reasons, but I have been dieting for the last two weeks. For those of you that know me well, you know that I have a major weakness for food! If I found an opened candy bar on the floor of a public bathroom, I would most likely eat it...yes, I am weak and disgusting. Sweets are my ultimate weakness. I have actually been doing really well eliminating sweets from my diet, but they are all that occupy my mind lately!

So, while thinking about sweets, I found this amazing seller on etsy...she sells cookies!! And she sells gorgeous cookies....

How delicious do these look? They are from Ullja's European Bakery. To help me feel better, each of her cookies are only 85 calories {that's good, right?}. I am going to reward myself soon with an order from Miss Ullja! My only dilemma is which flavor do I choose??

Mint chocolate chip is my all time favorite, and look how she makes them look like little ice cream scoops...yummmmy! Here are a few more to help stimulate your senses:If anyone has tried any of these tasty morsels, let me know your thoughts {and your favorites!}

starting 'em young

2008-03-11T17:39:00.000-07:00

So, I caught Miss Hannah {which I will remind you is 7 years old!} checking out the Tiffany & Co. catalogue. Yes, you read correctly...The Tiffany & Co. catalogue! I of course laughed out loud, however, her father was not as impressed! I only wish I could have captured his facial expression. It was beyond priceless!
She even picked out a few items that she liked...one was a gorgeous diamond pendant that only cost $7,500! I guess her father should be concerned, she definitely has her mother's taste.

bring on the wellies!

2008-03-09T17:49:00.000-07:00

The snow is finally melting...which means everything is a mess! I ventured out to do a little shopping, and I found myself rolling up my poor jeans as they were soaked from the melted snow! Ugh, I kept thinking I should have slipped my wellies on.

I found some gorgeous wellingtons that I am pretty sure I cannot live without!

I love anything toile and these beauties would look perfect on my two little feet...

And how about these lovely pink tweed wellies...yummy!
These are definitely being added to my list of "do not need, but really want" list!

snow, snow, go away!

2008-03-08T14:08:00.000-08:00

If you happen to live in northeast Ohio, then you know we are getting way too much snow here! If you don't live here...I am extremely jealous and please do not tell me about the lovely weather you are having! I personally despise the snow- absolutely hate it. My children, however, would sell their souls to be outside in the snow {I sometimes wonder if they are actually my children}. The snow has been coming down since Friday afternoon and has not stopped yet!

I thought I would share some pics of our Cleveland winter wonderland...

Yes, I put my children to work here at a young age! Mr. Jackson and Miss Hannah are busy shoveling the foot of snow from the driveway...

The first pic was taken at 7 a.m. and the bottom pic was taken after lunch! You can barely see my broken washer that is waiting for this weeks garbage...

And here is Roo-Roo begging at the door to get out of the cold! She looks like a little deer when she is out in the snow!

Hope you all are staying warm. Please send sunshine and warm weather my way!

blog virgin...

2008-03-04T16:55:00.000-08:00

Not for long!! I have finally given in to the peer pressure and ventured into the blog world. Very exciting, I know! There are so many other fabulous bloggers out there that have inspired me...I hope that I can one day be a member of this group!
My life is very unpredictable, never a dull moment: I work full-time, have a hubby in med school, am the mother to two gorgeous children {7 years and 21 months}, as well as the owner of an extremely hyperactive dog who requires more attention than my children! I promise, you will be entertained!
This new adventure in my life deserves a great deal of gratitude to two extremely talented and kind-hearted ladies: my dearest friend Ashley of Teacups and Tadpoles and the lovely Miss B. of The Bella Bella Co.. Thanks for all your help ladies and I hope you all will get your daily grins here at Paisley Peacock!