Southern Somedays

Update on my Little Man

2012-01-28T11:57:00.001-05:00

Source: asortoffairytalegirl.blogspot.com via Southern on Pinterest

Yesterday we finally got to see a Pediatric Neurologist at MUSC. They also ran a short EEG. Fortunately, that EEG showed nothing irregular! The Dr. ordered a longer 72 hour EEG. I should hear from them sometime next week for scheduling of that test. DS2 will be able to do it from home rather than stay in the hospital which is GREAT!

What I do know from the results of all the tests DS2 has had is… he is healthy as a horse; for that I am so thankful. So, we have no definitive diagnosis on what caused the seizures. I am so relieved that we have found nothing wrong with my sweet little man, but also find it unsettling not to have some concrete reason why.

Why are we so much more comfortable with black and white answers? I want something that says 2+2=4, not a “we may never know why this happened.” BUT, that is where faith comes in. I believe God has His hand on this child of mine. He is feeling great today and I am going to stand on that!

If you need to catch up on what started this journey

check in out HERE

More from St. Helana Island, SC

2012-01-25T09:18:00.000-05:00

After we left the State Park we headed over to the other side of the island to see the Chapel of Ease constructed in the 1740s ....

The Chapel of Ease was constructed so that the Planters that lived too far from the "city" churches could worship closer to home. What remains is an example of a construction method called tabby which creates a concrete out of lime, sand and oyster shells. It was, during it's hey day, called the White Church because of the white color brought by all those shells.

It is really amazing to see these ruins and think of all the families that passed through the doors when it was still a place of worship. It was abandoned by the white planters in 1861 just prior to Northern invasion when they left the area. Afterwards it is said to have been used by Union forces and later freed slaves before it met its destruction in a massive forest fire in 1886.

It is a beautiful and mysterious place and the cemetery is still somewhat intact, although most of the graves have become almost indistinguishable. There is also an open mausoleum, which is a bit unsettling to take a peek into!

One plot in the cemetery contains the graves of several children, the oldest being 7, from a single family. The children all died within days of one another in 1839. I can't help but wonder what kind of illness swept through and envision the heart broken parents standing in that cemetery.

Of course, a place like this can't help but have all kinds of legends and stories connected to it. This a great video that shows you more Chapel of Ease, St. Helena Island, SC or this web page for more details on the haunting stories The ghost of St. Helena's Chapel of Ease and Land's End Light

After visiting the Chapel of Ease we headed on to Fort Fremont at the end of the Island. It was quite an impressive, albeit creepy, structure built in built in 1899. "It was one of six fortifications designed to protect the southeastern coast during the Spanish American War. The original Fort site had 170 acres and was manned by a force of 110 personal. The main weapon systems consisted of Battery Jesup which had three 10-inch breech-loaded disappearing cannons and Battery Fornance which had two 4.7-inch rapid fire guns." ~Fort Fremont History

Fort Fremont was deactivated as a military installation in the early 1920s. It was sold into private hands in the 1930s and fell to the undergrowth and thick St. Helena's Island vegetation and to vandals. Currently it is owned by Beaufort County and is it is open to the public. It is a massive structure and completely open to explore, although I would encourage you to bring flash lights as most of the rooms are underground and very dark (thus creepy).

From the coastal side you couldn't even tell the Fort was there as it is hidden by the bluff. Amazingly it rests on the shores of the most beautiful and quiet beach. The park currently has has 900 feet of beach frontage on Port Royal Sound. We were just stunned at how pristine and lovely this beach was. It was a hidden gem. You can find more information about the Fort at this link Fort Fremont.

I hope you enjoyed coming along and seeing what fun

we had on St. Helena Island!

Weekend Road Trip: St. Helena Island, SC

2012-01-24T11:35:00.002-05:00

This past Sunday we decided we had gotten a full 3 weeks into 2012 so a ROAD TRIP was in order. I do believe we have a bit of gypsy in our bones and we catch wander lust from time to time. This trip was inspired by a show we saw (about 3 weeks ago...hmmm?) about St. Helena Island, South Carolina and the wonderful Gullah Culture that is rooted there along with a unique style of art and food.

I did mention food, right????

Our first stop was for sustenance

because you can't explore on an empty stomach.

We found our way to Gullah Grub.

It was a real treat! Chef/Owner Chef Bill Green
has been cooking for nearly a half century
and has been featured on Martha Stewart Living and
Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations.

Inside the restaurant is filled with great Gullah art and artifacts...

including the snarling gentleman in the corner.

We all came away full after ~~stuffing ourselves with~~ sampling yummies like Shrimp & Grits, Shrimp Gumbo, BBQ, red rice, lima beans, cornbread and the best collard greens I think I have ever tasted.

After getting nourishment for our journey we headed over to Hunting Island State Park to visit the lighthouse. The Hunting Island historic lighthouse is the only lighthouse open to the public to climb in the state. It was tall.....

Did I mention the plan was to climb to the top?

up....up....10 stories, as the stairs got narrower

and narrower with each story

The view from the top.

See that dot on the ground? That would be me...yep, I chickened out about 3 stories up. I had to go back down. I didn't realized that I apparently have a thing about heights, or maybe small steps??? But don't I look just tiny in this photo?

Check back for my next post continuing all the fun things we saw while visiting Gullah Gullah Island (do any of you remember that show?)

A Wow Mommy Moment

2012-01-19T16:36:00.001-05:00

Source: browse.deviantart.com via Bob on Pinterest

You know those Mom Days when you really think boarding school sounds really good? I had one of those yesterday with my oldest DS. He got in trouble because he let his grades slip…which on my radar is a pretty high offense. This is a song and dance I have done regularly with this child as he isn’t crazy about the whole book learning part of school (the social scene is a totally different thing, trust me he is really good at that…) So yesterday I pulled out the big guns and laid down some pretty hefty consequences that I intend to stand behind. He got mad…heck, if I were 15.... I would have gotten mad too.

But this afternoon, after he did his homework, he came into my office and said the words that almost took my breath away. He said, “Thanks for caring.” Of course, I was stunned and ask about what and then he said, “About my school and all.”

Wow, just wow……

Chewy Chocolate Cookies & Cream Cookies!

2012-01-17T08:57:00.001-05:00

This past weekend I baked Jaclyn @ Cooking Classy's Chocolate Cookies & Cream cookies. I had planned to try these before Christmas but didn't manage to get around to it. Though I did try 2 other cookie recipes from Jaclyn (Peppermint Brownie Cookies & Marshmellow Brownie Cookies) and they were both devine!

So, I have to fess up, these aren't for those trying to cut calories but they are soooo good (I am channeling Mr. Food here, folks!) My DH, who is a professed chocoholic, fell just a little bit more in love with me after he had these....seriously girls, they put a spark in his eye!

Chocolate Cookies & Cream Cookies

Ingredients:

1 (18.3 oz) pkg brownie mix

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

3 Tbsp packed light-brown sugar

1/4 tsp salt

2 large eggs

2 Tbsp milk

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 recipe vanilla cream frosting, recipe follows

12 Oreos, finely chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a cookie sheet with non stick spray and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together brownie mix, flour, brown sugar and salt. Add in eggs and milk and stir with a large spoon. Add in melted butter and vanilla and stir until well blended. Spoon dough by heaping tablespoonfuls onto greased cookie sheet (you can fit 12 per sheet). Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before frosting. Once cool, frost each cookie and sprinkle with chopped Oreos.

Vanilla Cream Frosting

Ingredients:

4 cups powdered sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

6 Tbsp heavy cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 salt

In a large mixing bowl, with an electric mixer, whip together sugar, butter and cream until fluffy. Stir in vanilla and salt, blend well.

Word of the Year...Intentional

2012-01-16T11:47:00.000-05:00

2012 rolled into our lives when things were a bit (understatement) chaotic and for the first time in a long time I didn't even consider resolutions or goals or even spend much time looking back on 2011, which has always been my way. So, when I came across Layla's @ The Lettered Cottage Word of the Year Linky Party it got me thinking. Not new thoughts but thoughts that have been rolling through my head continually since we almost lost our precious youngest son on December 27, 2011. The word that seems best to sum up what I am thinking and feeling is Intentional.

Intentional is defined as: Done on purpose; deliberate.
Synonyms are: deliberate - wilful - willful - purposeful - intended

I have always tried to be an intentional person; someone who pays attention and doesn't miss the details. But somewhere along the line I have become distracted and realize that I have become someone who does miss the details and doesn't see and appreciate the small stuff. Sometime, some how...I just stopped focusing on what is really important. I stopped seeing the beauty in each moment. Maybe I just got too busy, maybe I just go too lazy, either way...my desire, my prayer, my goal for 2012 is to live more intentionally.

I want to live on purpose, I want to be deliberate in my relationships. I want to be willful in showing love. I want to be purposeful in my prayers, actions and even in my quiet moments.

Do you have a Word of the Year?

Walgreens and Pharmacy Choice!

2012-01-15T18:01:00.001-05:00

This post brought to you by Walgreens. All opinions are 100% mine.

Have you been effected by the recent changes created by pharmacy insurance plans managed by Express Scripts? I am talking about the recent inability of Express Scripts to come to an agreement with nationwide chain Walgreens, which means as of January 1, 2012 countless Walgreens pharmacy customers can no longer choose to have their prescriptions filled there if they want to have them covered by their insurance benefits.

We become aware of the impending change many months ago as Walgreens began to inform us though letters and flyers that this change was on the horizon as Express Scripts became more and more difficult to negotiate with. Walgreens says during negotiations that it didn’t ask for rate increases and offered to hold rates steady for commercial plans but Express Scripts rejected the offer. Unfortunately, Express Scripts doesn’t just effect the commercial insured it also heavily influences the pharmacy choices of our military and military families. Walgreens went a step further in trying to negotiate on the military package. Walgreens stated in a press release, Walgreens and Express Scripts that it “Offered to negotiate the Tricare renewal separately from Express Scripts’ commercial business in order to continue to provide Walgreens services on an uninterrupted basis to all active and retired military personnel. Offered to lower Tricare reimbursement rates across the board resulting in double-digit million dollar savings to the U.S. military and taxpayers over the next few years; and provided an ironclad guarantee that Walgreens prices would match or beat the average costs per adjusted prescription of all other retail pharmacies in the Tricare network. Those costs would be compared on an apples-to-apples basis and verified by an objective third party each quarter. Walgreens also committed to reimbursing Tricare for any overage following the end of each quarterly review. ”

We are Walgreens customers and prior to January 1, 2012 our insurance pharmacy coverage was with Express Scripts. Fortunately, for us, my husband’s company chose to change pharmacy providers at the end of 2011 so we can continue to use Walgreens. Walgreens is our pharmacy because they are convenient to our home, work and school, not to mention they have a 24 hour pharmacy and with children it seems we have used it more times than we could have ever imagined. We also have a daughter who goes to school out of state and her local Walgreens has made it easy to keep her medications filled and transferred as needed. Sadly, many satisfied Walgreens customers no longer have this freedom to choose what works best for their family thanks to Express Scripts.

One help for those families affected by this change is a special discount on annual membership for the Prescription Savings Club at Walgreens. For a $10 per year membership, everyone in your immediate family is covered, including a spouse, dependents 22 and younger and pets. Individuals may join for $5. Join and receive discount prices on your prescriptions. Other benefits include: Savings on more than 8,000 brand-name and all generic medications, discounts on flu shots, pet prescriptions, nebulizer and diabetic supplies and bonuses when you purchase Walgreens brand products and photo finishing services! Show your support for Walgreens by following Walgreens on Twitter liking Walgreens on Facebook

I must have spoken too soon!

2012-01-14T14:27:00.000-05:00

Source: google.com via Katy on Pinterest

Yes, almost as soon as I posted yesterday about how well DS2 was doing I got a call from the school. He was dizzy, with blurred vision, severe headache and shaking. Of course, I was at the school in about 5 minutes flat. Fortunately, this was nothing like the previous episode as he was aware and responding all throughout and had no breathing issues. I called our Dr. and was told to take him to the Emergency Room. So, off we went for an unexpected Friday Afternoon Adventure (not one I would really recommend.)

By the time our Dr. was able to get to the ER to meet us, DS2 was feeling better and all tests looked fine. There is no definative way to know what was going one with DS2 during the actual episode, and it is possible it was a partial seizure but the Dr. is not sure. They are hesitant to give him anything medicine wise right now for fear it might mask what ever perplexing problem we are dealing with. So, the positive to come out of it...apparently we will be getting a much quicker appointment with the specialist now. The saga continues....

MRI and an Update

2012-01-13T08:57:00.001-05:00

My sweet boy is doing well. No more scares! We had an MRI yesterday and have an appointment scheduled (of course not as soon as I would like!) with a pediatric neurologist in Charleston at MUSC (Medical University of South Carolina for those of you not from my neck of the woods!) The only on going issue DS2 is having is regular headaches but otherwise he is 100%. Of course, I am watching him like a hawk and very protective of his tiredness level.

Our Dr. here is keeping a close eye on him until we get to see the neurologist and was able to review the MRI yesterday as well. He called me immediately to let me know there was no sign of a mass or ...tumor which is such a HUGE relief. Hopefully we will know more in a few weeks after we see the specialist at MUSC.

Praising God and praying this was a one time incident with no repeat! Thank you for all the prayers and support we have received, I don't know how I would have made it through the last couple of weeks without it.

Monday Musings

2012-01-09T08:24:00.000-05:00

Source: paloma81.blogspot.com via Bella on Pinterest

Just a quick update from our house; my youngest son is doing well. He is back in school and seemingly back in the groove and full of energy. We are waiting on the appointment with the Pediatric Neurologist. My daughter is home for a couple of days and last night all 3 of my children were in rare form and this house was filled with laughter and joy. For that I am more thankful than I can express.

Somehow though, we seem to be in the cross hairs of something because a couple of (non related to my youngest son) issues have arisen that have me shaking my head and wondering, "what else?" Yes...mostly I seem to be asking God, "What else?" I feel like a little kid most of the time when I come to God in prayer these days. I probably sound like a spoiled child to Him for the most part, I am sure. "What else, God?" But, I will still go before Him, knowing He is there and loving me. I am thankful that even in my most drained, tired, angry, fearful moments He is there.

This morning, after I dropped my boys off at school, I heard this quote on the radio and it felt like balm for my emotions:

"The enemy wouldn't be attacking you if something valuable wasn't inside of you!

Thieves don't break into empty houses!

You've got purpose!"

~author unknown

Happy Birthday!

2012-01-06T09:25:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a big day around here! It started off bright and early at the DMV. You see my oldest son (DS1) had one of those milestone birthdays that opens up a whole new world for him... and us (yep...us.) He is now the proud owner of a Beginner Drivers Permit. Boy...it just seems like yesterday he was cruising around the yard in his Power Wheels jeep. If we could only figure out a way to keep him in the yard now....

This birthday feels pretty special to me in a unique way, because this brave young man saved his little brother's life last week. I am not sure that is something a lot of 15 year olds have experienced, but he has. Last night when we went out for a special Birthday dinner celebration I couldn't help but be extra thankful for the wonderful faces around that table.

Happy Birthday to my sweet boy! I am so honored and proud to be his Mom.

A Good Report from the Cardiologist!!!

2012-01-03T13:43:00.003-05:00

We just left the Pediatric Cardiologist and he says the tests indicate nothing heart related as far as he sees. He ran more tests and nothing was abnormal. We even got to see a sonogram of DS2's heart and he thought that was pretty cool. It showed no abnormalities or damage. We will be using an "event monitor" over the next month to check as needed but fortunately, the one thing that the original EKG indicated is not present and that is a HUGE blessing. The Dr. also lifted the "no physical activity" order which is music a little boy's ears!

Although this doesn't give us any answers as to why we almost lost our sweet boy, it at least rules out some of the things we were fearing. And no matter what, God is good...all the time!

Next we will be seeing a Pediatric Neurologist and I will keep you posted. Thank you so much for all your kind words, comments and prayers. It has been so comforting to hear from friends (even those I have never met) during this time.

2011, Ending in Prayer (Part 3)

2012-01-02T17:40:00.000-05:00

For background please read here for Part 1 and Part 2 of this journey.

At the hospital, my little guy was responding well and the pediatrician diagnosed him with having experience fainting and an extended seizure. It is called extended because it lasted for more than 5 minutes, which is not normal. He was talking, walking and physically seemed to have no lasting issues. An EKG was performed and the pediatrician mentioned some irregularities but it needed to be looked at by a cardiologist. My little man was tired and drifted in and out of sleep, which is apparently normal after a seizure experience. We were told this could happen again or it might not…there isn’t a sure way to know. They released us with some emergency meds to administer in case of another extended seizure and told us to follow up with his Doctor at home (an appointment I made from the emergency room!)

We left GA early on Wednesday (the 28^th) for home and on our way home we got a call from the hospital telling us that the cardiologist had looked at his EKG and needed us to follow up with our DR. ASAP. The hospital called and faxed our Dr. the information and EKG results so they would be waiting for us at our appointment the next day. When we reported to our Dr. the next morning he had already gone over our results sent from the hospital and felt we needed to see a Pediatric Cardiologist. He also performed an EKG in his office just for comparison. We are now awaiting a visit with the Pediatric Cardiologist (their offices have been closed for the holidays until in the morning.) My sweet, but very active little boy is on a strict No physical/sports activity order until we know more.

He is doing well and just seems a bit tired at times. Today was the first day back to school and until we have further information we are only going for ½ days. By picking him up at lunch he will avoid the excitement and temptation of P.E. & recess. His teachers are also very supportive and are keeping an eye on him to make sure he seems OK and isn’t over exerting himself. Leaving him at school this morning was one of the hardest things I have had to do. It left me in a panic on so many levels. This is worse than when I had newborns, I think. It is very scary. But…I know the one who is in control and I trust Him.

It isn’t only us who is carrying this burden, but my oldest son (who turns 15 this week) is struggling to deal with it as well. He was there even before we were, and felt the fear and feelings of inadequacy in a way that most adults never experience… much less a child. Our daughter left to go back to college yesterday and I know she has carried a huge weight back with her as well. We are all feeling the need to nest and draw close to each other and just be together.

I would like to say that I have been all sugar and roses during this ordeal, but I have not. Both my husband and I are tired, stressed and yes…fearful. I don’t know how we can’t be. The future is uncertain (feeling more so than usual.) We don’t know what the next round of doctor’s visits will bring. For me, I am spending a lot of time in prayer…for it is where I find my energy, my encouragement, the only place I can find peace.

This is a link to a song that is touching me like never before as I walk through each day: “My Savior My God” by Arron Shust. I hope you will click over and listen to it and be blessed (for some reason I am not being able to embed it!) Just the opening lyrics seem written just for a time as this:

I am not skilled to understand
What God has willed, what God has planned
I only know at his right hand
Stands one who is my savior

Thank you all for your prayers, comments and concerns.

I continue to covet them as we move forward in trying to discover what is going on with our little man.

2011, Ending in Prayer (Part 2)

2011-12-31T14:01:00.000-05:00

If you haven't read 2011, Ending in Prayer (Part 1) you may want to go HERE to catch up! .... I know in my heart that God himself breathed life into that child and that He was there in that very moment. When my world was crumbling God knew. He was in control. At this point those wonderful men, called EMTs took over and we placed the care of our son into their very capable hands. It took them 15 to 20 minutes to stabilize him in the ambulance. Then we had an additional 45 minute drive to the hospital. I don’t think time has ever stood quite so still. The first part of this ordeal felt like it was flying by at the speed of light and then it halted and moved like a snail. My DH (dear husband) road in the ambulance with my son. My FIL (Father In-law) drove me, my older son, daughter and MIL (Mother in-law) to the hospital right behind the ambulance. About 30 minutes into the trip my DH texted me and said, “He is responding.” No more precious words were ever texted….until the next text, “He is responding well.” I felt like I could breathe.

During our ride to the hospital I prayed, held my oldest son who was just over wrought and I sent messages to friends begging them to please pray. I know those prayers were heard because my little boy was alive and improving. We were so blessed by so many people praying for us so quickly, all over the country as word spread that he was in trouble. The family of Christ stepped up and raised us up in our time of need.

As we exited the freeway to the hospital and stopped at a stop light, I saw some activity in the back of the ambulance as the EMTs raised my little guy up just enough so he could see us out the back window of the ambulance and I saw the greatest sight…his sweet hand waved to us. God is so good… (To be continued…)

2011, Ending in Prayers (Part 1)

2011-12-30T21:21:00.001-05:00

I mentally began writing this post in my head on Christmas night, thinking it would be filled with high lights of the last few days and how we celebrated Christmas. But sometimes life has other ideas. First off, we did have a wonderful Christmas! Christmas Eve we enjoyed a beautiful and touching candlelight service at our church followed by dinner at our house with some dear friends. Then we set up the camera to try to capture a picture of the Jolly Old Elf when he made his anticipated delivery…of which we were successful! YES!!!! On Christmas Day we awoke early (yep, early…) and had a wonderful time opening presents and sharing with each other before church. Then came home and all put our jammies back on and spent the day playing with new toys, napping and eating (way too much!) It was a perfect Christmas Day. On the 26th we traveled to GA to spend the day with my parents and celebrate with them before headed to my in-laws.

This is where my post veers off from where I had planned and why I haven’t updated or posted this week. I haven't been sure I should write about this or even if I could, but I have said I wanted to be transparent and this is where and what we are dealing with now...

On Tuesday after Christmas we experience one of those moments in life that you know will be forever cemented in your mind. After lunch my boys went outside to play in the woods behind their Grandparents house (one of their favorite things to do). A bit later, as we were all still sitting around the table in the kitchen, we heard my oldest start to yell. At first, honestly, we thought it was the yells of playing boys…until my husband stepped out on the deck to hear my oldest so scream, “He is unresponsive, Help!” as he crouched over his younger brother. My husband began to run and I followed behind. He reached my youngest son before me and I yelled asking if we should call 911. He said yes. When I reach my son, he was blue, not breathing and gurgling…and we had no idea what had happened. My older son told us the last thing his brother said was, “I am blind! I can’t see!” and then he did a half spin and started to fall. My sweet oldest son acted quickly and caught his baby brother and laid him on the ground before calling out for help. He had no idea what had happened.

I stood there… looking down into the face of my baby boy…he looked unlike anything I have ever seen. He was blue and pasty and I didn’t know why. This is the child that plays hard, loves hard and is this missing piece of our family puzzle that we didn’t know was missing until he joined us. Truly I couldn’t tell you what I was feeling because it was unlike anything I have ever experienced.

I dropped down on that cold, muddy ground and with all my heart called out to the only one I knew could help us at that moment….God. I prayed and I prayed harder and louder than I have ever prayed. I needed the help of my God; I need Him and His power more than any single thing in life.

After trying to determine if my son had received an injury my husband grabbed him up and began to run out of the woods. As he began to run, a small moan escaped that little body. When my husband dropped to the ground with him as the ambulance was arriving my son opened his eyes, but there was no responsiveness….no acknowledgement of anything. Still not knowing what was wrong and desperate to help I thought maybe he was choking but his jaws were clamped together and I had to use 2 hands to pry them open to try to see if his airway was blocked. His jaws never relaxed but at this point we had shallow breathing…. (To be continued)

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T11:10:00.000-05:00

From my house to yours I am wishing you the most blessed of Christmas celebrations. I pray that you will find the true meaning of this season and celebrate the birth of a Savior...

born as a babe in a manger.

Loving God, Help us remember the birth of Jesus,
that we may share in the song of the angels,
the gladness of the shepherds,
and worship of the wise men.

Close the door of hate
and open the door of love all over the world.
Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting.
Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings,
and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.

May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children,
and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts,
forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus' sake. Amen.

-- Robert Louis Stevenson

The Lucky Winner of the My Memories Suite Scrapbooking Software Giveaway is...

2011-12-23T10:55:00.000-05:00

Far From Camelot

Beth @ Far from Camelot!!!!

Beth entered early and took advantage of every entry! I know she is going to love this new software and I can't wait to see what fun projects she comes up with!!!

Merry Christmas Eve, Eve!!!!

Christmas Caroling...

2011-12-22T10:21:00.003-05:00

Our Children's Ministry hosted a night of Christmas Caroling last night and even though the weather was a bit yucky (not yucky by other areas standards but wet and drizzly which is yucky by our standards) we had a great time!

This is my little comedian who, by the way,

picked his own version of Christmas inspired attire to wear!

We started off the night singing carols up and down the hallways of a local retirement home

and then making stops to visit the residents there that are members of our church.

"The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loudly for all to hear."

After our stop at the retirement home we caroled at the home of members that lived close by.

It was a night of true Christmas cheer!

Do you go caroling? Is it with friends & family or with your church or other organization? I never went as a child, so for me I feel kind of like a child when we go. My children, having been many times probably don't think much about it, but I think it is magical!

Today is the LAST day to enter my giveaway for a chance to win your own FANTASTIC scrapbooking/crafting software:

ENTER HERE

My Sisser is Home from College...

2011-12-21T15:56:00.000-05:00

and she seems to think she must fix my hairs...

Celebrating the Birth of a Savior!

2011-12-19T11:14:00.000-05:00

The shopping is done, the parties from here on out are intimate and special, the stress is lightened...

it is time to truly celebrate the birth of a Savior!

Yesterday morning my church presented their Annual Christmas Cantata along with a play done by our Children's Ministry. It was so touching. As I sat there in the service, I felt as if Christmas had truly descended and it was time to celebrate Jesus' birth. Something in that sacred place, with the music touching the Heavens and voices of young and old lifted up, brought me the peace and beauty of the season. It was delightful.

My sweet baby boy was part of the Children's Ministry production.

I hope you are finding time to truly experience what this season is about,

peace, love, joy and the birth of a King.

Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion!

Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem!

Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he,

humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.

Zechariah 9:9

Enter the My Memories Suite Scrapbooking Giveway!

2011-12-17T14:43:00.000-05:00

One lucky winner will will a FREE My Memories Scrapbooking/Crafting software program!

Go HERE to enter!

Wise words on Worry...

2011-12-16T09:30:00.001-05:00

Source: spirituallythinking.blogspot.com via Centsational on Pinterest

This quote is from Corrie Ten Boom (who, if you haven't read about her or know her story, is pretty amazing and inspiring and worth checking out!) and I am trying to take it to heart and practice it every day! Though I tend to then worry about whether or not I am just living in denial (yes....obsessive, I know!) but I keep trying to focus on this verse from Matthew:

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow,

for tomorrow will worry about itself.

Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 6:34 (NIV)

Can you tell I am a worrier??? Yes, it is true. I am a planner, an organizer, and by nature an obsessive worrier. It is genetic, I come from a long line of obsessive worriers. We literally have it down to a hyperventilating, hand wringing science. One thing that is coming out of the current trials I am dealing with is having to face that I have no control. Really, it is so much bigger than I am. So, I am trying out the experience of living in this very moment (which is really hard if you are always worrying about the next moment) and having faith enough to get through it. Since I have no control, there is no need to worry. You see, my worry comes out of the struggle to have some sense of control over situations and fear. I have no control...and God is with me so I will not fear...and I will hold boldly to that in this moment!

Marshmallow Brownie Cookies, Oh my....

2011-12-14T08:58:00.003-05:00

I couple of days ago I made Jaclyn's (of Cooking Classy) Peppermint Brownie Cookies and they were wonderful, but yesterday I tried her Marshmallow Brownie cookies and they are to die for...really!

My DH came home and tried one and promptly said, "Oh...wow...it is like a party in my mouth!" Now if that isn't an endorsement, I don't know what is!

I have to admit.... I had one this morning and it was better than yesterday!!! I am love with these super, chocolaty dream cookies.

Can you tell I like to cook around Christmas? I love trying new, totally healthy (NOT) recipes and sharing them with friends and family. Hey, we can talk health and getting skinny in the new year!

Marshmallow Brownie Cookies

Yields about 3 dozen

Ingredients:

1 (18.3 oz) pkg brownie mix (I used Betty Crocker fudge brownie mix)

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup packed light-brown sugar

1/4 tsp salt

2 large eggs

2 Tbsp milk

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups mini marshmallows

3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

3 Tbsp butter

3 Tbsp water

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a cookie sheet and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together brownie mix, flour, brown sugar and salt. Add in eggs and milk and stir with a large spoon. Add in melted butter and vanilla and stir until well blended. Spoon dough by heaping tablespoonfuls onto greased cookie sheet (you can fit 12 per sheet). Bake for 9 minutes and remove from oven and top each cookie with about 6 - 7 marshmallows (you may have to push down on the marshmallows slightly to keep them from rolling off). Move oven rack near the top of the oven and return cookies to oven to bake 2 more minutes until marshmallows soften. Remove from oven and set cookies aside. In a small microwave safe mixing bowl combine chocolate chips, butter and water. Microwave chocolate on 50% in 30 intervals stirring after each interval until melted and smooth. Pour mixture into a small ziploc bag. Cut a small tip off the end and drizzle over marshmallow brownies cookies. Store cookies in an airtight container.

Y'all just have to try these...they are amazing.

Today I plan to try Jaclyn's Cookies & Cream Brownie Cookies!

*Thanks Jaclyn for all the great recipes!!!

Please don't forget to enter my giveaway HERE!

Great Christmas Deal from Sprint on HTC EVO 4G or EVO

2011-12-13T19:01:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Sprint for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

I’ll admit it, I am a late comer to the smart phone party! Truthfully, I was one of those folks who really thought all the hype about smart phones was a bunch of hooey! I have even been known to make fun (playfully, of course) of friends and family who just seemed addicted to their phones…and then I caught the bug. Now, I am totally in love with mine. I just love the ability to check email, look up directions, compare prices (YEP, that is totally cool!), browse Twitter & Facebook, all at the light touch of a finger! I am also a huge fan of texting and photo sharing, all of which I attribute to being the mom of teenagers (that sounds acceptable…right?)

My oldest child had a smart phone long before I did. It was a 2nd generation Android powered phone and it gave her many years of good use (and survived some pretty rough treatment as well). So I am excited to be able to share a great deal that Sprint has going on right now featuring the Android powered HTC EVO™ 4G or EVO™. For a limited time you can get the HTC EVO™ 4G or EVO™ Shift for FREE only on Sprint here: Android™ powered EVO 4G devices and you can also get waived activation for new lines of service and free shipping from Sprint!

Now wouldn’t your stockings be stuffed in style if they had one of these in them come Christmas morning? Check out all the great holiday deals from Sprint here: Android™ powered EVO 4G devices

More Great Holiday deals on And

Yummies: Brownie Peppermint Cookies

2011-12-12T18:04:00.001-05:00

I made these super yummy cookies today! Of course, like all good things, I found the recipe on Pinterest (if you need an invite please leave me a comment with your email and I will get you one.) It was from Jaclyn @ Cooking Classy and I just had to try it because I am total sucker for anything that combines chocolate and mint. They were easy and I think almost too good because I want to eat more than I want to share!

Brownie Peppermint Cookies

1 (18.3 oz) pkg brownie mix
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup packed light-brown sugar
1/4 tsp salt
2 large eggs
2 Tbsp milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 tsp peppermint extract
1 recipe vanilla cream frosting, recipe follows
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy canes

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a cookie sheet and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together brownie mix, flour, brown sugar and salt. Add in eggs and milk and stir with a large spoon. Add in melted butter, vanilla and peppermint extract, stir until well blended. Spoon dough by heaping tablespoonfuls onto greased cookie sheet (you can fit 12 per sheet). Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before frosting. Once cool, frost each cookie and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.

Vanilla Cream Frosting

4 cups powdered sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

6 Tbsp heavy cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 tsp salt

In a large mixing bowl, with an electric mixer, whip together sugar, butter and cream until fluffy. Stir in vanilla and salt, blend well.

Makes about 3 dozen

Monday Musings: Gethsemane?

2011-12-12T10:06:00.000-05:00

The word Gethsemane means “crushed olives.” And from crushed olives comes oil that heals, illuminates, and nourishes. We all have our Gethsemane. To understand and embrace yours, look at the night Christ spent there before going to the cross: “Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them…‘My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch [pray] with me.’ Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, ‘My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will’” (vv.36-39 NIV). Notice: (1) Gethsemane is where your prayers are not answered as you’d like them to be. God understands how you feel, and He has a better plan in mind. (2) Gethsemane is where those closest to you cannot help. Like Christ’s disciples, they will pray with you for a while but then grow tired and give up. At this point, you pray alone. You go on alone. (3) Gethsemane is where you feel the full weight of God’s will. The Old Testament prophets spoke of “the burden of the Word of the Lord.” Luke tells us that in Gethsemane Jesus was “full of pain” and that “his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground” (See Lk 22:44). We used to sing in church, “All that I have, all that I am, all I shall ever be; cannot repay the love debt I owe; I surrender to Thee!” If you’re finding it easier to sing than to surrender, you’re in Gethsemane! originally written by Word For You Today.

The above was in my devotional last Friday. It ruminated with me all weekend as it was one of those wonderful gifts that God provides at just the right time. I couldn’t help but see clearly how these words are written just for me:

(1) Gethsemane is where your prayers are not answered as you’d like them to be. God understands how you feel, and He has a better plan in mind.This one is a hard one. I have prayed, and prayed specific prayers and they have not been answered in the way I would have liked. I wanted something else, God knows what I need. He knows what will bring glory to Him, He has a far greater plan than I could have…so now I am (and sometimes struggle) with thanking Him for His plan and awe filled that I am part of it.

(2) Gethsemane is where those closest to you cannot help. Like Christ’s disciples, they will pray with you for a while but then grow tired and give up. At this point, you pray alone. You go on alone. Oh, how these words are written for my heart. The situation that I face is so much bigger than I am and, unfortunately it isn’t something others can fix. I must face it…but HE is there and it is not bigger than He is! I can feel secure in knowing that no matter what the earthly situation is that He will never desert me and will be there in the end.

(3) Gethsemane is where you feel the full weight of God’s will. The Old Testament prophets spoke of “the burden of the Word of the Lord.” Luke tells us that in Gethsemane Jesus was “full of pain” and that “his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground” (See Lk 22:44) As a Christian, I have to admit (though I wish it weren't true), I often struggle with God’s will. It isn’t always easy to accept and just skip merrily down the path saying, “Oh, no matter, it is God’s will.” At least for me, it isn’t always easy. I want everything to work out the way I want them to work. I want. The basic truth is…I want MY will. I have moments of pure anxiety and fear which are born out of the desire for my will and my heart struggling with what is God’s will. My will is comfortable, easy, even if it isn’t what is best. God’s will is perfect, complete, and best, but sometimes is painful for me…just as Jesus (full of sinless perfection and grace) felt the pain of God’s will in the garden that night.

After reading these words, I know that I am in my Gethsemane. I am alone with God in my Gethsemane and I am praying for the healing, illumination and nourishment that come from the oil of those crushed olives and I am thanks filled.

Because you can never have too many friends...

2011-12-11T11:00:00.000-05:00

Source: theberry.com via Caitlin on Pinterest

If you would be so kind as to click on the left to join this site and become a bloggy friend I would appreciate it so much! Because, truly, you can never have too many friends!

Also, don't forget to enter my giveaway for a chance to win your very own digital scrapbooking software from My Memories! ENTER HERE

Happy Anniversary...23 years!

2011-12-10T00:05:00.003-05:00

Photography by Alvin Stewart Photography

It has been 23 years since we walked down the aisle and said I do. Back then I couldn't imagine the road we would travel or the curves we would encounter...and survive. What a journey it has been and what a journey it will continue to be. I would say I do to this man, without question, again because I love him more now than ever before. It has been a wonder filled 23 years.

For reals...

2011-12-09T17:27:00.000-05:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Susan on Pinterest

My Memories Digital Scrapbooking Software Giveaway!

2011-12-08T10:58:00.003-05:00

My Memories Digital Scrapbooking Suite

I am super excited to be hosting a giveaway for this great software program! I have been learning the ins and outs of this program and I am just thrilled with all the options and possibilities it offers! I used to be a devoted traditional scrapbooker but over the last few years, as my photos all became digital, I pretty much stopped scrapping. So, I am interested in digital scrapping and I have 1000s of photo to work with! My Memories software is very easy to use and offers major flexibility...and isn't near as messy as traditional scrapping and is less expensive!

Look at what I made in about 5 minutes!

It was my 1st attempt using the software and I was pretty pleased with the outcome!

I did mention a giveaway, didn't I???? The sweet folks over at My Memories are offering one lucky Southern Somedays reader a FREE copy of the latest My Memories Scrapbooking software (a $39.95 value!) which is the same one I used to make the above page!

Oh, and if the idea of getting new scrapbooking inspiration isn't enough to get you excited this software can also help you with your blog and there are some great tutorials on how to make you own custom headers and such! Just watch this video (and the many others) to see how Make your own custom Blog Header with My Memories

To enter for a chance to win:

Go to My Memories and look at their great digital paper packs and then come back here and tell me which was your favorite in a comment on this post. Thank is all!!!!

For extra entries (NOT required, of course) you may also do the following
(please leave a separate comment for each extra entry):

*Follow the My Memories Blog (which is full of great tips!)
*Like My Memories on Facebook
*Follow My Memories on Twitter
*Blog about my giveaway (leave me a link to your post)
*Tweet about the giveaway (include @SouthernSmdays so I will see it!)
Just remember to leave separate comment for each extra entry to be counted!

I will announce a winner on December 22, 2011! Good luck!!!!

If you are totally excited and don't won't to wait for the giveaway and want to start scrapping today, you can buy your own copy of the software and My Memories is offering Southern Somedays readers a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - $20 value! Just click here: My Memories and use this code to save: STMMMS65406

Florence Symphony Guild's Holiday Homes Tour 2011

2011-12-05T10:34:00.001-05:00

Yesterday the Florence Symphony Guild hosted a Holiday Homes Tour so I thought I would share just few pictures here to get you in the mood for Christmas. You can visit the entire album here: FSG Holiday Homes Tour 2011. After seeing all the gorgeous homes, it was hard not to walk away without a bit of Christmas cheer.

Don't forget to check out all the photos here:

Florence Symphony Guild's Holiday Homes Tour 2011

Blogger Commenting Problems...(solved)

2011-12-03T11:17:00.003-05:00

UPDATE: Thanks to some wonderful bloggers it seems I have resolved my commenting problem (outlined below) by simply unchecking the "remember me" box when signing into my Google account. I just wish I had asked earlier! THANK YOU for all the help!

Has anyone had problems over the last few months commenting on blogs? I have repeatedly tried to figure out a solution to this problem but can't seem to figure it out. Sometimes when leaving a comment I have to choose "Google Account" and then it asks to to sign in when I am already signed in and continues to do that over and over and never lets me post the comment. AND lately I have been running into this error message:

It is getting frustrated because I can't leave comments on so many of my favorite blogs. I like leaving comments and thanking people for sharing their thoughts!!!! Help!!!!

Anyone else??????

So, do you Sew?

2011-12-02T09:17:00.000-05:00

Are you a seamstress? I. Am. Not.

It is sad really that this skill has evaded me for 40+ years...and especially through the years when I had small children. It isn't that I had no interest. I had lots of interest....just not a lot of stick-to-itness. Some how, I missed those classes when I was in school and I came from a Mother who apparently hated to sew. But now that I am completely addicted to Pinterest my desire to be able to sew has reared it's crafty head again. There are just too many cute things!!!! I love fabric and feel like I could do so much if I just knew how to sew. I have a friend who says she can teach me and I think I just might have to take her up on her offer (and hope we remain friends through the learning process!)

Here are some of the things I am in love with on Pinterst that have me lusting after the ability to sew:

Source: mama-says-sew.blogspot.com via Bella on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Bella on Pinterest

Source: underwear.sew-ing.com via Kimberly on Pinterest

Source: gap.com via Ashley on Pinterest

Just a reminder....

2011-11-29T09:00:00.000-05:00

26 days....that is all....

Source: google.com via Bella on Pinterest

Monday Musings: Christmas with a Capital C

2011-11-28T09:43:00.001-05:00

Source: google.com via Bella on Pinterest

On Sunday night, after the boys were in bed, DH and I decided to watch a Christmas movie. On Netflix we found Christmas with a Capital C. Although we weren’t necessarily looking for a deeply spiritual movie, this one(which includes Ted McGinley & Baldwin brother, Daniel) surprised me with its message. Set in Alaska, though it could have been anywhere in the United States, the theme on the surface appears to deal with the legal issues of Christian Christmas displays on public property (I believe the place in question was City Hall?) We have all heard about legal issues arising around the country about this very thing which led credence to the plot. Of course, the story line played up the stereo typical hard lined Christian view point verses an “evil” opposition to the display, but it also balances the issues with some pretty thought provoking twists. On the surface the plot seems to focus on the legal issues, but I think the true plot lies with a little girl who decides to act on her faith rather than look for a legal way to keep Christ in Christmas. She enlists her Mom and others to put feet to their faith through attitude and deeds to spread love and care through the community.

Now, I am not downplaying the need for Christians to work hard to defend their faith and rights one iota, but one line that really caught my attention (I am paraphrasing) was when a minister suggested that although the Nativity is a wonderful symbol, we as Christians, must be careful not to make an idol of it. Wow….have I been guilty of that? Have I been so hard lined to defend symbols and wording that I have lost the spirit and intent of those very words and symbols? I didn’t expect to be challenged by Christmas with a Capital C (and I am not sure my challenge is exactly what the writers were going for)… either way, I know I need to put more feet to my faith and make sure my heart is about sharing Christ’s love rather than making a point.

It is a great movie, especially if you look for the true message and past the stereo typical us versus them mentality!

My letter to Santa

2011-11-25T12:45:00.002-05:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Kristen on Pinterest

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T10:43:00.000-05:00

Source: pinterest.com via Bella on Pinterest

Happy Thanksgiving, dear friends!
What a wonderful day to celebrate all our many blessings.
I pray that your day is filled with thankfulness and abundant joy.

Southern Christmas Show in Charlotte, NC Part 2

2011-11-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

Here are some quick photos I snapped while at the show. Please excuse the quality as I was using my phone rather than a real camera!

So, are you all ready to get your decorating done???

Southern Christmas Show in Charlotte, NC Part 1

2011-11-22T10:01:00.002-05:00

Last Saturday, at the crack of dawn, a friend and I headed towards Charlotte for our Annual trek to the 44th Southern Christmas Show in Charlotte at The Park Expo & Conference Center. Why so early? Mostly because we literally stay all day! With over 500 vendors from around the country, there is so much to do and see. We spent about 9 hours Christmas shopping, eating and getting lots and lots of great decorating and craft ideas. There are certain vendors that we look for every year such as Southern Supreme Fruitcakes (hey, no fruitcake jokes...these are delicious!) and always some new ones to tickle our fancy. It is a great place to find unique gift items and I was lucky enough to get quite a few names checked off my list.

This year's show had a retro theme which I especially love, since in the last couple of years I have realize just how much I love Americana and things that take me back to when life just seemed simpler. (This is why I am totally over the moon with the old glass Christmas ornaments I have from my Grandmother). When we entered the Expo Center we were greeted with a full sized, mid-century modern ranch house complete with an Aluminum Christmas tree and the familiar color wheel. I was captivated from the first peek...and especially with the 1963 Ford Fairlane in the carport!

Notice the gift wrapped front door, my Grandmother used to do that!

Also, at the show there are some beautiful designer Christmas trees like this retro inspired one!

Christmas wonderland!

Lite Brite and Raggedy Andy, anyone?

When I was a child I played with a doll similar to this

that had belonged to my Mother.

Oh, I had a Mrs. Beasley doll and she was one of my favorites!

Check back tomorrow for more photos of the designer show rooms and decorations!

Monday Musings...

2011-11-21T19:21:00.001-05:00

Source: borntomakeanimpact.tumblr.com via Arielle on Pinterest

These are beautiful words, a beautiful reminder that God is there. He is there in times of trouble when you feel alone and when you don't feel like you have gotten an answer. He is there when you feel forsaken.

It is so easy to feel like giving up. When you have prayed all you feel like you can pray, and it is hard to muster just one more...these words encourage us, promise us...give us hope. I am in one of those seasons where I have prayed and sometimes it feels like there is no help, no answer... but I know....I know....He is there. The words are gently calling me out and reminding me to be patient, that God does answer prayers and instructs me to continue to pray...."NEVER stopping praying." How much do I want to just give up and give in and my flesh wants to accept that God has forsaken me...but I have faith in Him and in His plans. He is with me and loves me. God promises in Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. " True to His instructions my hope makes me glad.

Frugal Friday: Black Friday Ads

2011-11-18T12:54:00.001-05:00

Are you a Black Friday shopper? I used to be every, single year, but not so much over the last few years. That is probably because I have been the one to cook Thanksgiving Dinner and I have been too pooped to shop but I my husband has been known to head out (along with DD) if there was something in particular we hoped to get a deal on. Fortunately, there is a website: Black Friday Ads - The Official Black Friday 2011 Website for Black Friday Deals that makes planning your Black Friday ~~attack combat~~ shopping trip easier if you are ~~brave enough~~ inclined to join the masses! For weeks now, they have been gathering and sharing all the leaked information from major retails about their specials. Check it out and you can decide if you want to do the Black Friday shopping dance and save some money!

A Public Service Announcement....

2011-11-17T10:04:00.002-05:00

IT is only 7 days until THANKSGIVING and only 38 DAYS until Chrismtas!!!!

Source: pinkpreppypartygirl.blogspot.com via Bella on Pinterest

Sorry for no blog posts this week. It has been busy and stress filled, and there have been things each day this week that have kept me away from home and blogging (and I have the laundry that needs folding/ironing to prove it!) Today will find me rangling dust bunnies and trying to make some headway in the disaster that is my house!!!

It has also been a really stressful week in dealing with our old house - we moved out of it about 18 months ago due to DH's job change. We have been trying to negotiate a short sale of it due to the market value having dropped so low and that hasn't been very sucessful. The mortgage is underwater, by a lot, and there is no way we can sell it, nor can we afford to keep it. The process is frustrating and the bank has already been so slow to act that we have lost one buyer (with a super offer) already. We received another offer this week - much lower - and just don't know how it is all going to pan out. I do ask for and covet your prayers in this situation as it is wearing us thin and I feel the weight of this all day, every day. After 18 months of dealing with this, I have just about had it. (Yes, you guessed it...this is all part of my need for transparency!) This is a situation we never, in a million years, dreamed we would be facing and it is completely overwhelming at times. But I am steadfast in my knowledge that God is in control and all of this is part of His plan. Thank you, dear blog friends for your prayers in advance.

I am clinging to:

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD,

“plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

plans to give you hope and a future."

~ Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Thank you on Veterans Day!!!

2011-11-11T09:21:00.001-05:00

I am so grateful to the men and women who have sacrificed to defend and build this great nation. I am also thankful and indebted to the families who have, and continue to, stand behind the brave men and women of our armed forces. Our nation is blessed and I am so glad to be an American. I am especially proud of two of my hero's and want to say Thank You to them for making my world a safer and better place.

My Father-in-love, who served in the U.S. Air Force.

I know what kind of man he is by the quality of the sons he reared!

Thank you, Papaw!

And my Daddy,

who was away from me for the 1st year of my life
because he was in Vietnam.

He was recognized for heroism during military operations against hostile forces with 3 commendation medals and 3 bronze stars. He was stationed at Chu Chi home base during his tour in 69-70.

Take time today to thank a Veteran and our currently serving Service Men and Women

(and their families.)

They are the reason we are free!

47...

2011-11-09T09:05:00.001-05:00

Source: bluevelvetvintage.com via Bella on Pinterest

Yes, only 47 days until Christmas! Every year I get excited about the holidays, but this year I think I am looking forward to them more than usual. Maybe it is because we are more settled here than we were last year? Maybe because 2011 has been a particularly stressful year and I am desperate for the joy and comfort that the holidays bring? Who knows?

I do know that I am looking forward to twinkling lights, Christmas music (well, I have already been indulging in that very liberally), Christmas movies, quiet evenings reading with my kids while the Christmas tree stands guard, baking and doing crafts with my children, parties with friends and family. I am even looking forward to seeing Santa out and about!

The stress of 2011 won't be gone when the holidays are, and will still be there in 2012, but I am so looking forward to sometime just to focus on this miraculous holiday! We are facing some hard issues personally, but we are still so very blessed and I am assured that God has a plan and He is in control. Christmas will still happen and the celebration is what I need....isn't it what we have all needed...to celebrate the birth of a Savior?

Supper Club and True Friendship

2011-11-07T11:39:00.000-05:00

Source: jamiecooksitup.blogspot.com via Bella on Pinterest

This past Saturday, we hosted Supper Club at our house for the 1^st time. We did a “Thanksgiving” inspired menu which gave us all a chance to try any new recipes before the holidays arrive. For the appetizer I did Cranberry Salsa and it was amazing! I don’t mean just good…I mean the kind of amazing that had me dreaming of getting at the left-overs on Sunday morning during church! I found the recipe at Jamie Cooks It Up.

Our Supper Club is a small group with just a few couples. We get together once a month (during the school year and taking a break during the summer since everyone is traveling.) We were invited into this intimate group less than a year ago, but the friendships that have grown out of this group have been such a blessing. These couples feel more like family than friends. I can’t believe that I didn’t know most of them at this time last year.

I have been feeling off center lately and our Saturday night with the Supper Club was the best time I have had in weeks and it got me to thinking about how important friends are. I don’t mean acquaintances you have fun with, but the true, deep down friendships that are there during the good and the bad. The friends who step up and see you through the bad are a rare breed. In all honesty, I have had far too few of these friendships. So now I am reveling in having friends that go beyond a few drinks and laughs but the ones who you can really talk to, share with, support and call when you need a little support yourself. Having these people in my life is giving me courage to be more transparent and comfortable with myself. They are teaching me what friendship looks like.

Frugal Friday

2011-11-04T07:50:00.001-05:00

I want to tell you about my new favorite store, Aldi! That sounds really funny considering I drove by the Aldi store daily for about a year and a half, until recently when I decide I had to check it out. My curiosity peaked after reading one of my favorite blogs, Blue Chateau Interiors. Carole, at Blue Chateau, shares how she cut her family's food budget drastically without using coupons just by shopping at Aldi. After that endorsement I had to give it a try.

I stopped in one day just to look around and figure out the system. See, at Aldi, things are a bit different than at traditional American groceries. 1st off, you have to "rent" your shopping cart. This really isn't a big deal because the quarter you deposit to receive a cart is given back to you when you return it. Also, you have to bring your own bags or buy bags from them (my local Aldi sells paper or plastic bags for .10 a piece) and bag your own items. Fortunately, the Aldi folks have a nice counter space right past the checkout lines so you can sort and bag yourself as needed. I take my own re-usable shopping bags and 1 large clothes basket (which I leave in the car) if I am doing a large shopping trip. Then I bag up can goods and such and then put all the rest in the basket at the car and then return my cart. It is a bit different from traditional stores but not much different from your warehouse club experiences (well, except for the pricing!) Also, I like that Aldi carries all the seasonal specials and even some household and gift items. You can also preview their sales ads in advance online to see current specials.

But why has Aldi become my favorite? Quite simply the price and value! Over the last few weeks we have tried many different products from Aldi and have been pleased with the quality of each and thrilled with the pricing.

In the past year or so, it seems grocery prices have climbed and continue to reach new heights every week. Our grocery bills were out of control and I found myself frustrated and discouraged every time I had to do a shopping trip. I know a lot of folks are dedicated couponers and in the past I have used a lot of them (but I am no ultimate couponer) and just couldn't seem to get into the swing of it after our move a year and a half ago. So, when I found Aldi...I felt like I finally had some control over our grocery bill! It was such a relief to see an actual difference in pricing!

This is an example of a quick stop in Aldi for some odds and ends. I got all this (including the fresh and so yummy pineapple) for $8.35 including tax. I guarantee if I had gone to my traditional grocery I would have spent somewhere between $13 & $15 for the same items.

Check out Carole's post on "How to Shop at Aldi"

for more encouragment to jump on the Aldi bandwagon!

So I am an Aldi convert! Have you tried it yet?

Into My Heart...

2011-11-02T07:47:00.000-05:00

Source: travel.nationalgeographic.com via Natalie on Pinterest

I love reading all different kinds of blogs, some light and funny, some showcase great talent & craftiness, and some that share a journey and then there are those others that defy category (you know who you are!) Southern Somedays probably fits more into the light ~~and non-serious~~ category and that has been Ok for the most part, but now I am feeling a tug on my heart telling me I should share more of my heart, more of my journey...also known as "be more transparent." That is a hard one... especially when people you know IRL read your blog. I actually debated starting another anonymous blog for sharing but then felt really compelled to just share more of my heart, my struggles, here on Southern Somedays. I know I may lose a few readers and, of course risk some cutting commentary, but I really feel I need to open up more here about who I am and not just the pretty parts of life. Though, don't worry, I don't plan on becoming all doom and gloom (although I may have my moments) Trust me when I say...this is going to be hard.

I hope you will stick with me and share your hearts as well.

Pizza boys are cuter than I remember...

2011-11-01T16:00:00.001-05:00

We are definitely not into scary when it comes to Halloween around here, so my youngest DS decided to be cheesy, pardon the pun!

Rather than trick or treating (because to be quite honest, I don't really like Halloween...yes, it is true), our family spent the evening helping out at our Church's festival. DS2 filled his pizza box with candies and spent the evening giving it out. He really had a great time and looked very cute to boot!

Sunday in Savannah

2011-11-01T07:45:00.000-05:00

For DD's recent birthday we spent the day in Savannah...

We started here, at Paula Deen's Lady & Sons.

This is the crowd waiting to be seated for Sunday lunch.

Fortunately for us we didn't have to wait very long.

It wasn't our first visit, but the food was much better than our previous time (which was good...but something about this time was even better.) If you are ever in Savannah it is worth a stop!

Some how my oldest is getting very close to being my smallest!

The birthday girl with her baby brother.

It has been interesting to watch how much the boys

miss their big sister now that she is away at school.

My youngest DS is a huge history buff so a day in Savannah is right up his alley.

We couldn't have asked for better weather for strolling the Riverfront.

I had to leave you with a picture of the infamous Mercer House, especially since my book club just finished reading Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. We also watched the movie at our last meeting - complete with popcorn and lots of candies.

Don't forget that today is...

2011-10-31T09:36:00.000-05:00

ONLY 55 Days until Christmas!!!!

Source: flickr.com via Arielle on Pinterest

What???

Did you think I was going to say something else???

Phi Mu Family Weekend!

2011-10-27T07:46:00.000-05:00

This was going to be my {Semi} Wordless Wednesday with Daphne @ Flip Flops & Pearls post but for some reason Blogger was not cooperating with me yesterday so I guess it will be and odd ball Picture Filled Thursday!

Last weekend we traveled to DD's college to celebrate the Phi Mu Family Weekend. The girls always do a great job planning and hosting the Family Weekend events. It is a fun time and we love meeting here "sisters" and getting a little taste of the fun they share.

I think the little man misses his sister!

Only 61 more days......

2011-10-24T15:31:00.000-05:00

Source: google.com via Emily on Pinterest

Are ya ready?

Frugal Friday!

2011-10-21T08:10:00.001-05:00

I haven't done a Frugal Friday post in I don't know how long, and I think it is high time I bring it back! Remember, the definition of Frugal is:

economical in use or expenditure; prudently saving or sparing; not wasteful: Synonyms: thrifty, chary, provident, careful, prudent, penny-wise,.

From that definition I draw the point that Frugal doesn't mean being cheap or skimping on quality but rather being careful to get the best out of life in the most "prudent and not wasteful" way. To me frugal doesn't refer to someone who is so tight fisted that they miss out on life, but rather someone who cares enough to shop wisely. Frugal means making carful choices about spending so that you can spend money where you most want to. I know I would love to be thought of as someone who is "thrifty, provident, careful, prudent and penny-wise."

Today Frugal Friday comes from the beauty section. We all know how expensive cosmetics can be (even drugstore brands!) Most of the time they cost so much I hesitate about "trying things out" and stick to tried and true; but now I have found a brand that makes me want to try out all the new looks for a price I can stomach. I have been using Elf Cosmetics for the last few weeks and I have been very, very pleased with the quality and especially the price....starting at $1.00!!!! I picked mine up at Target on a whim, since each product was anywhere from $1.00 to $3.00 I thought why not. I didn't truly expect to get great quality at that price point....boy, was I wrong!

Source

This has become my go-to eyeshadow (in Butternut.)

It brightens my eyes and is long wearing and perfect for every day at only $1.00!

Source

I bought this a few days ago just to try it. I haven't ever used an eyeliner pen before (only pencils). Once I got the hang of application, I have decided it is wonderful and haven't gotten any dark smudges under my eyes as the day wears on. Again...only $1.00!

Source

This is my new favorite tool! This is the Total Face Brush
and it is amazing! I use it to apply powder and it is the softest
and lightest brush I have ever used. LOVE IT!
Not to mention...it was only (you guessed it) a $1.00!!!

So, Frugalistas, have you found any great buys in the beauty section lately?

Check back next week when I share about my experiences in grocery shopping at ALDI!

Happy Birthday, Baby Girl!

2011-10-20T08:16:00.000-05:00

Can it be that 20 years have passed? I can't believe my baby girl turns 20 today. It is strange to think she is an adult. She has grown into a wonderful young lady, one that I am so proud to call my daughter. I cherish this girl!

A daughter is the happy memories of the past,

the joyful moments of the present,

and the hope and promise of the future.

~Author Unknown

Fall Has Arrived!

2011-10-17T08:09:00.000-05:00

The temps may still be climbing into the high 80s most days

and the leaves may not be changing, but Fall has arrived!

Mums and pansies always make me feel like Fall is here!

Not to mention, I really love pumpkins.

Welcome!

I love sweet pansy faces and how they smile all winter.

This is my wreath this year.

I decided I wanted a new one and this is what I came up with.

Are you Addicted...to Pinterest?

2011-10-15T17:33:00.000-05:00

Oh boy am I! It took me a little while to figure it out, but now I am a pinning fool. There are just too many good ideas! It is full of great recipes, unique crafts, gorgeous florals, beautiful interiors...not to mention the clothes!

If you would like to partake in the Pinterest fun leave your email and I will get you an invite!

Now, off to pin....

Contemplating a Change...

2011-10-14T08:48:00.002-05:00

When you think you want to shake things up a bit, does it take you a while to decide when and where you should start shaking? It does for me!

As I have mentioned in numerous posts, I am in a season of transition and my tastes in home decor, fashion and just about everything seems in flux. Why??? Who knows? All I know is I seem to be search for my niche all around.

So that brings me to my blog. I have loved my blog design for many years and haven't felt the need to change it up because it was unique and frankly, I was pretty attached and comfortable with it. But...lately I have felt it was time to change it up, get a new look, bring some spark...what ever you want to call it. I think it is time for a new look and to get some excitement back into my blog life!

I would love to get suggestions on great blog designers that aren't too expensive (THAT is a HUGE point) and one can help me get my groove back in blog land! Also, what do you like best about blogs you read. Blogging has come a long way from when I started this blog, and I am open to suggestions on what you think works best, looks best and makes for an enjoyable blog reading experience. So come on, y'all share...

Monday Mommy Musings...Fashion Struggles

2011-10-10T09:51:00.003-05:00

NY & Company

The last year, or so, has found me at an age where at times I find myself struggling a bit with adjusting to this new season of life - you know the one that seems to arrive after that 40th birthday . Some of the struggles have been pretty easy to adjust to when I realized that, hey....it is better on this side of the fence (see this post: Looking Backwards.)

Then there are other areas where I don't quite know where I fit. Fashion is a major one. I do NOT want to be one of those Moms who dresses (or tries to dress) like a 20 year old. For the record, my 14 year old son calls those the "fancy Moms" and not in a flattering "fancy" kind of way... Yes, I can still get into most of the 20 year old wear but, frankly, that look just doesn't quite fly anymore. On the other hand, I am not ready for geriatric wear either. The thing I find most frustrating when shopping is that most petite departments seem to think if you are not a Junior, but are petite, you want to dress like you are 90! WHAT is that about???

Also, (like it or not) I can't seem to wear the heels I used to wear daily. This has been a big source of stress!!! For what ever reason, the balls of my feet and one of my knees seem to launch all kinds of complaints when I try to pull that off. So this year I have bought several pairs of flats. I do like them and have tried to make sure they were really cute...but I still struggle with not wearing heels. That little voice in my heads seems to taunt me with "I thought YOU would always wear heels...blah...blah...blah." I don't want to be condemned to the land of ugly, prison guard shoes.

So, if you are looking for me at the mall you may find me wandering around with a vague look on my face trying to find something to wear that falls somewhere between the low rider jeans, duck embroidered sweatshirts and yoga pants.....

Linking with Amanda's Weekend Bloggy Reading Party!

In High Cotton...

2011-10-09T08:55:00.002-05:00

My little man (DS2) and I visited a cotton field last week and had some cotton pickin' fun!

I grew up in the South, but not any where cotton was grown. Actually, the South I grew up in wasn't terribley agricultural at all, other than individual gardens. My grandparents always had big gardens but it was in no way farming so living in a part of the South where people still make their livings by farming is quite interesting for us. I am pretty fascinated by the crops and the big, monster machinery used for harvests, and so is my little man. DS2 picking a huge bag of cotton and I practically had to drag him away.

TV Tuesday... SuperNanny to the Rescue!

2011-10-04T09:02:00.000-05:00

Yes, apparently after not writing about TV in over 5 years of blogging, I have now decided to write about it two weeks in a row! I am just afraid to even consider what that may mean about my reality these days.

Do you ever watch SuperNanny? I do and for a really self serving reason; when I watch the show it makes me feel a whole lot better about my own kiddos. AND when we watch as a family my kids always tell me they are glad I am their Mom...isn't that reason enough to watch??? Is that mean? Probably. Though, I really like Jo and her no nonsense approach to family life and that she seems to call out parents on their lack of parenting and how they are responsible for the atmosphere and climate of their own home. Often, on the show, Jo touches on more than child behavior and addresses the adults in the situation even more than the children and she isn't afraid to call it as she sees it. I imagine her help goes a lot farther than just making the kids get into bed on time.

Anyway, I read today that SuperNanny is now casting for families in America! Do you know of anyone who could benefit from a little SuperNanny love and guidance?

If you or a friend or family would like to be considered contact ShedMedia here for an application: Be on SuperNanny!

Wonder if they take anonymous nominations??? heheheh...

83 Days Until....

2011-10-03T07:44:00.000-05:00

Christmas! Yes, I am counting down.

Yesterday, though, someone asked me, "Why are counting down the days until Christmas already?" It was asked not entirely in a rude way, but asked in an almost accusatory tone, as if I had violated some terms of service of which I was unaware. Instead of being taken aback by the delivery of the question, it actually got me to thinking clearly about why I like to count down, not just to Christmas, but the entire holiday season.

I have learned that if I want to fully enjoy the season (from Thanksgiving all the way through Christmas) I have to be organized ahead of time. I love everything about Thanksgiving and Christmas - except the stress and busyness. My solution is to do as much as possible before the season begins. I want my decorating done early and most, if not all, of my shopping done and wrapped early. I like menus planned and parties scheduled.

Doing much of the prep. ahead of time, frees me to enjoy the best part of the season...the people and the celebration of Jesus' birth.

I want to be free to share special times with my family... baking, doing crafts, watching Christmas movies or reading Christmas stories... without feeling a to-do list a mile long weighing on my shoulders. Taking care of the holiday stresses BEFORE the holiday arrives, frees us to have friends over, go to parties, attend Christmas concerts or just head out simply to drive around and enjoy the sights of the season. All the preplanning and organizing actually allows us to be spontaneous during the holidays because there is no pressure to get this or that done. We are free to savor the fleeting moments of this special time. I don't want my children's memories of the holiday season to revolve around a cranky Mom who seems frazzled and stressed out and ready to get Christmas over and done with.

So, it may seem bizarre to some that I start thinking and planning so far in advance, but it makes our Christmas less stressful and we make more memories with our friends and family.

And the winner of the Betty Crocker prize pack is....

2011-10-02T15:09:00.000-05:00

Amy Lauren!!!!

Amy, you win a great prize pack from Betty Crocker!

I hope you enjoy those yummy Molasses Cookies!

Thanks so much to My Blog Spark and Betty Crocker for a great giveaway.

Contact me via comments (I won't publish your info!) or

email at BellaMichelleSC@gmail.com

Man Dinner...

2011-09-29T09:05:00.003-05:00

One night this week, I was told not to plan dinner at all. We were having a "Man Dinner". Now, I am not sure what I thought Man Dinner would be, but it turned out pretty good for me. What my boys [Men] defined "Man Dinner" to mean was that they planned the menu, shopped and prepared the entire meal. Good thing, because I was NOT up for eating Slim Jims and Gummies for dinner.

Oldest DS learned a thing or two about chopping!

The little man did his fair share as well.

They even got roses for the table!

I am thinking I could get used to "Man Dinner" quite frequently...

TV time....

2011-09-27T07:46:00.000-05:00

I have been blogging for over 5 years and I don't think (now, I don't promise but I don't think) I have ever written about TV shows. I know a lot of bloggers are very into TV show writing but I was always kind of left standing alone where that topic was concerned because, to be quite honest, I haven't ever been much of a TV watcher. Even when I was a teen, I didn't watch much TV. It was the technology that I never seem to catch. But apparently, for me at least, somewhere after crossing that 40 number I started watching TV. Yes, I know this bodes well for my future.

This year I have found 3 shows already that I am loving and I really hope they make a go of it.

We (DH & I) watched this pilot last week and we both really liked it. There is a lot of mystery, and flashbacks in this new show all set in the background of the Hamptons and "the beautiful people." It is a lot like a great beach read; it is shallow and fun but intriguing enough to make you want to see more. You can catch Revenge on ABC Wednesday's at 10:00 pm.

DH and I watched the pilot on Sunday night and I loved it. He wasn't as excited but I really loved it. Apparently I am on this really retro/early 60s jag right now because of shows like Mad Men and movies like The Help. I loved the clothes, the hair, the makeup! It is all so glamorous in a way that we seem to have lost in this modern age. I also was drawn in by the "spy" subplot that looks to be very interesting! The girls are all beautiful, smart and funny - just what you would expect from "modern girls." Pan Am is on ABC on Sundays at 10 PM.

I watched this little gem last night and really liked it! This is a multi layered story that has potential with a variety of strong characters and I can't wait to see where it takes us. It was particularly nice to see Scott Porter (formerly Jason Street on Friday Night Lights) up and walking around...well, except when he gets run down by an elderly man....but that is only a minor story line! I was proud that Hart of Dixie didn't seem to want to totally mutilate the Southern accents, although they have several variations represented (cause y'all do know that all Southerners don't sounds alike, right???) See Hart of Dixie on CW on Mondays at 10 PM. It looks like it will be a lot of fun!

So, these along with a few comedies that I have grown attached to in the last year (Raising Hope, The Middle, Modern Family) and my bizarre fascination with Hoarders, Buried Alive, I actually might be morphing into a Television Watcher...I swan! My only issue with these new shows is that they are all on at 10 pm...which, sadly, is kind of late for me on a consistent basis. Y'all I tell you I am getting old!!! I very well may need to investigate some of this modern technology that I keep reading about that allows you to record a show and watch it later...what is it called...a VCR or something?

I love Molasses Cookies!

2011-09-24T16:13:00.002-05:00

Last week I received the opportunity to review Betty Crocker's Molasses cookie mix through Blogspark and let me tell you they were GOOD. Not just good, but....really GOOD.

I love molasses cookies but haven't had the best of luck making them from scratch. First off, working with molasses can be, well...a mess and then my homemade ones always get too crunchy and never stay thick, moist and chewy. No worries now, because these cookies were perfect and I was done, start to finish, in about 20 minutes (which is a good thing in my world!)

It has been a couple of days since I made them and they are still moist and chewy and in my cookie world the perfect snack for fall.

To share the cookie love, Betty Crocker has agreed to award one Southern Somedays reader a prize pack of their own:

How cool is that?

If you would like to enter, please leave me comment on this post telling me what your favorite occasion for baking Molasses cookies.

For additional entries you may:

Like Betty Crocker's page on Facebook

Follow Betty Crocker on Twitter

Tweet about my giveaway.

Share about my giveaway on Facebook.

***Please not each additional action in a separate comment so your additional entries will be easily counted. I will announce a winner on October 1, 2011.

In addition, you can visit Betty Crocker Molasses Cookie Coupon to download a printable coupon for $0.75 off the purchase of one (1) Betty Crocker® Molasses Cookie mix pouch today!

Happy Fall, Y'all!

2011-09-23T09:18:00.002-05:00

I love FALL! It really is my favorite time of the year. I don't know why, but I have always been like this. I feel more creative, positive and energetic in the fall. My optimism sores during September through December. I love the sounds, sights and smells of Fall...it all makes me happy.

Do you have a favorite season? A season where you feel all is right with the world and your past, present and future seem rolled up into one glorious gift?

Delicious autumn!

My very soul is wedded to it,

and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth

seeking the successive autumns.

~George Eliot

Would you like a Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer??? Giveaway Alert!

2011-09-21T10:55:00.000-05:00

Boy, would I!!!!

Sandy of the wonderful Reluctant Entertainer is partnering with Kitchen Aid and giving away one of these delights...and you get to pick the color!

Hope on OVER and find out how to enter for a chance at your own kitchen dream machine!

It is the season for Gumbo...

2011-09-20T07:39:00.001-05:00

Last weekend my DD was home from college and much to our delight she was in the mood to cook. Saturday morning she baked cinnamon rolls and then on Saturday night she decided that she was in the mood for some Gumbo. It was rainy and cool so it was really the perfect dish. The recipe that she used was from the recent Taste of Home magazine "Heartwarming Soups" and it was delicious!!! I am pretty impressed with my 19 year old chef if I do say so myself.

New Orleans Gumbo

2 cups chicken broth
1 cup uncooked converted rice
2 celery ribs, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (23 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 pound kielbasa or Polish sausage, cute into 1/2-inch slices
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon pepper
2 bay leaves
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cold water
1 pound uncooked medium shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 large green pepper, chopped
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley

1. In a large saucepan, bring broth to a boil. Stir in the rice, celery, onion and garlic. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 20 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, in a Dutch oven, bring the tomatoes, chicken, kielbasa, thyme, pepper, bay leaves and cayenne to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Combine flour and water until smooth; gradually stir into chicken mixture. Stir in shrimp and green pepper. Cook, uncovered, over medium heat for 4-6 minutes or until shrimp turn pink and gumbo is thickened. Discard bay leaves.

4. Remove rice from the heat and let stand for 5 minutes; stir in parsley. Serve with gumbo.

Yield: 8 servings (2 quarts gumbo; 4 cups rice)

It is pretty cool having your child cook for you when she comes home!

I could probably get used to that.

Linking up with Amanda @ Serenity Now and her Family Friendly Food Week!

Study Buddies...

2011-09-12T15:09:00.000-05:00

DS2 and the furbaby study spelling!

I think it is fair to say that the furbabies miss my baby boy when he is at school.

September 11th...never forget.

2011-09-11T12:54:00.000-05:00

Photo Source: Albany Times Union

It has been 10 years. Do you still remember? I will never forget.

This is a snapshot from my son's baby book. These were the photos taken of us during the exact moments that our world was changing a 1000 miles away. This is a post I wrote which includes a description of where we were during that time: 9-11 Remembering

I look into the face of my now 10 year old son and can't help but be sad for the changes that came about on that fateful day. It still brings tears to my eyes. As painful and emotional as it is for me...and I didn't lose anyone...my heart breaks for all those 10 year olds out there (and all the other family members and friends) who lost loved ones that day. I pray for those left grieving.

God Bless the U.S.A.

NEVER FORGET.

Boys of Fall...

2011-09-09T07:44:00.001-05:00

It is that time of year again, when football season is in full swing. We had game 3 last night of my son's JV season. I still marvel at the fact that I have a football player. He spent so many years playing baseball, practically year round, and never playing even little league football. Now he is playing his 2nd season of football and loves it completely. He has scored in every game this season and looks like he might end up a pretty decent player.

And he wears these badges of honor with pride (they are cleat marks.)

Something I (the Mom) don't quite understand....

10 is the magical number...

2011-09-05T10:27:00.001-05:00

My baby boy is 10 today. He is in those all coveted double digits. He wanted an Ipod for his birthday...what happened to wanting little cars and such? I can't believe my youngest child is 10.

I love this little man so very much. He is light and joy and fun rolled into one. He is my child that fully loves life and wraps it in a sweet, compassionate spirit that I so desperately want to preserve. It gets harder as they age to protect them and keep their spirits in tact. That is why I always feel a bit sad at each passing birthday, knowing they are that much closer to life outside the protective confines of home.

My wish for my sweet, youngest is that he always love life as much as he does now and he continues to grow into a man after God's own heart.

Happy National Dog Day 2011!

2011-08-26T11:17:00.000-05:00

Did you know it was National Dog Day???

How are you celebrating???

I am going to start the party by showing you a couple of pictures of my fuzzy mut, Macy:

This was taken right after she got her "summer hair cut" and she wasn't too pleased.

But, I just love those big, old, brown eyes!

Here she is, feeling a bit better about her new do!

From the National Dog Day Website I found these 50 ways to celebrate the Canines in our lives:

1. Adopt a dog from your local shelter or pure breed rescue organization. Volunteer at your local shelter and offer to walk a dog or play with a dog, clean cages or anything else they need help with.

2. R U prepared for a new dog? Purchase "The Good Behavior Book for Dogs" {Rockport/Quarry Books} to help you with everything you need to know to raise a well behaved and happy dog!

3. Donate blankets, food and toys to organizations such as Blankets of Love.

4. Organize a peaceful demonstration in front of your community pet store that sells puppies.

5. Write your Congressman and ask that he/she support the ban of Puppy Mills in your state.

6. Assist an ill or elderly neighbor by walking their dog.

7. Have a National Dog Day party and invite all your friends and their dogs!

8. Join a fun, dog friendly community online and post pics of your pooch for the world to ooh and ahh over!

9. Host a National Dog Day event to raise money for your local animal shelter.

10. Have a Witty Wocks made to preserve the likeness of your dog forever.

11. Have a portrait paintedof your dog to suspend the fleeting magic of dogdom.

12. Buy your dog a fun new dog toy.

13. Give your dog some fun exercise by taking him or her to a doggy play resort.

15. Brush your dog to eliminate excess fur.

16. Give your dog a massage or holistic spa treatment.

17. Get your dog some leash training lessons.

18. Buy your dog a cute new outfit or fashionable collar and leash.

19. Purchase a fabulous new carrier for your small breed dog like this one from Mommy Bus.

20. Take your dog to the beach.

21. Throw out all your chemical cleaners and purchase non-toxic cleaners for your home to keep your dog cancer-free!

22. Dog-proof your home and yard with a "dog safe" inspection by pet safety expert, Colleen Paige

23. Buy your dog a beautifully designed original accessory like these beaded collars from ZanyZak.

24. Install a car safety harness to keep your dog safe during travel from

25. If you haven't already, switch to a holistic brand of dog food to keep your dog healthy.

26. Hire a pet photographer to capture your dog's life moments, such as Susan Sabo.

27. Pamper your dog in pure luxury by purchasing something fabulous from a popular shop.

28. Buy your dog a chic and comfy new bed.

29. Take your dog on a pet friendly vacation.

30. Buy yourself and your dog some matching tee shirts!

31. Create a profile and share your dog photos at Purina's petcentric.com

32. Have a custom Dog House built for your dog.

33. Buy a dog gate to keep your dog out of hazardous areas of the home.

34. Dog-proof your pool to prevent the risk of drowning.

35. Buy a canine first aid kit and put it in your car in case of injury while away from home.

36. Microchip & I.D. Tag your dog so the shelter can locate you if he gets lost.

37. Make sure your dog has all vaccines and a regular health exam.

38. Wear a tee shirt with a cute dog on it.

39. Switch to filtered water only from now on, to prevent illnesses related to toxins in normal water supplies.

40. Teach your children and their friends to be kind to your dog by never pulling on his ears or tail.

41. Pledge to walk your dog every day for proper health and behavior management.

42. Teach your dog some obedience skills.

43. Take your dog to an elderly community and spread some love.

44. If you like your little dog to snuggle in bed with you, buy him some doggie steps to make it easy for him to join you.

45. Buy your dog a designer crate that fits with your interior décor style.

46. Make your home pet friendly by choosing pet friendly fabrics that hold up to your dog's wear and tear.

47. Install a fence around your unfenced yard so your dog can run and enjoy some freedom at home.

48. Pledge to never chain your dog to a tree or doghouse. Always include your dog in your family by letting him live inside the home with you.

49. Carpet any stairs you may have to reduce risk of injury to your dog by slipping and falling.

50. And last but not least - pledge to never yell at or hit your dog...to be patient and kind and give your dog lots of love and praise every day.

Sweet {Semi} Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-24T08:46:00.001-05:00

Gumball.com

Forever More Events

Candy Buffet by Becky

Jerry's Nut House

Budget Dream Weddings

Orange County Event Services

In honor of the sweetest Daphne @ Flip Flops & Pearls!

And the winner is....

2011-08-24T08:05:00.000-05:00

Sara from Simply Sara!!!! Sara wins the 2 Preppy Girls personalized towel wrap!

Sara, please email me your information bellamichellesc@gmail.com (or you can leave it in a comment and I won't publish it,as I have comment moderation.) Congratulations and I hope you love your towel wrap!

Y'all be sure to check out Sara's blog also, it is so cute!

Simply Sara

Back to School and Welcome to High School!

2011-08-16T09:24:00.000-05:00

My boys went back to school today! It was a little different for DS1, as it is his 1st Day of High School!!!! I just can't believe he is there already and I know all to well how quickly the next four years will fly. Many times in the recent days I have thought about how tiny and small he was when he first went off to school. Wow, how times have changed. Here he is in his 1st grade picture!

The 1st Day of School is always a "Mama Drama" day for me as I kinda feel sad when I have dropped them off and know that we are yet another year closer to the end of their school careers; but on the other hand, this year, I was glad for them to go back because I have been craving routine that we don't seem to have in the summer months.

DD has been back at college since July 31st so I think once she went back the boys and I got into the "back to school" mode so they were ready for the school year to begin as well.

We had a smooth 1st morning, with everyone up, dressed, fed and rooms straightened with time to spare. I hope that is a sign of things to come!!!

This is going to be a great year.

Another GREAT giveaway!!!

2011-08-11T07:55:00.003-05:00

I am super excited (doesn't "super excited" make it even better?) to be hosting a giveaway from 2 Preppy Girls! IF you aren't familiar with 2PGs you need to check them out for all your personalized and monogrammed needs...such CUTE things!!!!

AND

2 Preppy Girls is offering to one lucky Southern Somedays reader this adorable zebra spa/shower wrap - in YOUR choice of Lime, Pink or Black and they will monogram it too!

Of course, this cute shower wrap isn't the only adorable thing on the 2 Preppy Girls site. This season has seen the arrival of some adorable things for back to school and on the sports field...so from the shower to the course 2 Preppy Girls has got you covered.

Please check out the wonderful all the goodies in the 2 Preppy Girls Pro Shop!

To enter for a chance to win the 2 Preppy Girls Giveaway please:

1. Fan 2 Preppy Girls on Facebook HERE
2. Follow 2 Preppy Girls on Twitter HERE
3. Visit the 2 Preppy Girls site and tell me what your favorite Proshop item is in your comment.

*one comment is all that is required to let me know you have completed the requirements

I will pick a winner on August 19th!

Garden & Gun on Redefining the Southern Belle

2011-08-04T16:07:00.002-05:00

Y'all know I have an on going love affair with magazines and particularly with Garden & Gun, but this month the G&G folks out did themselves! Writer, Allison Glock, tackles that near and dear to my heart subject of the Southern Belle in her article, Redefining the Southern Belle . Glock does an amazing job sharing insight into the wonderfully complex and beautifully elegant creature known as the Southern Belle! Now, go read (and if you haven't already, subscribe to Garden & Gun!)

Linking back to Amanda's Weeekend Bloggy Reading Party!

{Semi} Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-03T08:20:00.001-05:00

My neighbors often release Chinese Sky Lanterns (also known as Wish Lanterns)

into the night sky and I love it! I think they are magical.

Linking up with Daphne at Flip Flops & Pearls for Semi Wordless Wednesday!

Back to School Meal Planning...What do you do to make life easier?

2011-08-01T08:48:00.006-05:00

My sweet blog friend, Leigh @ Hines-Sight Blog is having a fun link up today that is so timely for those of us getting ready to get on the "Back to School" train (a train, by the way, that flies at the speed of light it seems). Leigh is hosting a Meal Planning Made Easy linky party to help us get motivated with new ideas and recipes for the busy school year!

Knowing this linking party was coming up and seeing as how I am desperate to start this school year being ultra organized (yep...a bit obsessive...but that is the way I roll) I couldn't resist picking up this little recipe booklet from the Taste of Home folks. It is filled with some yummy, healthy and most importantly... quick and easy recipes. I particularly appreciate how many of the recipes give instructions on how to make ahead and how to use them from frozen! There are offerings for breakfast, lunch, dinner, healthy snacks along with some slow cooker recipes. I can't wait to try many of the recipes because so many sound like they will be big hits with my boys.

The 1st recipe I am going to try is:

Good-Morning Granola (submitted by to TOH by Mary Bilyeu from Ann Arbor, Michigan who says, "This is ridiculously easy to make and has lots of healthy ingredients. It's a great way to start your day and keep you going. With pretty packaging, this tasty granola makes a nice gift or bake sale item."

4 cups old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup toasted wheat germ
1/2 cup sliced almonds
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup honey
2 teaspoons canola oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup dried cherries
1 cup dried cranberries

Step 1 In a large bowl, combine the first 5 ingredients; set aside. In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, honey and oil. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla. Pour over oat mixture and mix well.

Step 2 Transfer to a 15 in. x 10 in. x 1 in. baking pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown, stirring every 10 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3 Stir in dried fruits. Store in an airtight container. Serve with yogurt if desired.

As far as back to school prep., I have already managed to do all our back to school shopping, clothes and supplies included so I am feeling so ahead of the game, especially since school doesn't start until August 16th!

Y'all pop over to Leigh's and link up your Meal Planning ideas!

Just another article to make me excited about the movie: The Help

2011-07-14T15:45:00.001-05:00

As if I needed anymore encouragement or reason to be excited about the movie based on the novel, The Help by Kathryn Stockett, along comes this article by Vanessa Gregory in Food & Wine magazine: The Help: Southern Food. We Southerners have deep seated love affairs with not only our land but also our food and from my travels I haven't ever found anything like it! I can believe it when the director, Tate Tayler (according to the article) says, "About 20 minutes into the movie, you're craving fried chicken."

Monday Mommy Musings: I have been a very bad blogger...

2011-07-11T10:21:00.001-05:00

Yes, I said it. I have been a bad blogger as of late. It isn't that I don't love all you wonderful blog friends, but rather I have been spending a bit more time with my kiddos. Some how it seems there can be times when there isn't time for both. We are getting down to the wire on how much time we have left before they all go back to school. DD has to be back on campus to prepare for Recruitment (RUSH for all us oldies) on July 31st!!! So we have only 19 days until she is gone and my boys go back to school on August 15th (not much more than a month). Also, making those times shorter, DD will be spending a few days on a trip with a friend and my oldest DS will be at camp for a week and a weekend retreat before school starts. My youngest is in Music camp this week.

So, please forgive my hit or miss blogging schedule. I don't want to miss a thing!

A Southern Belle's Ten Golden Rules

2011-06-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

As it has been quite quiet around these parts, well except for the big pool party we hosted on Monday night and the 4th of July Church wide picnic we attended last night...but I digress. These events have kept me a bit busy and not able to come up with suitable blogs posts so I thought I would just share a bit from one of my favorite little Southern gems, A Southern Belle Primer: Why Princess Margaret Will Never Be a Kappa Kappa Gamma.

A Southern Belle's Ten Golden Rules

1. Never serve pink lemonade at your Junior League committe meetins. It has Communist overtones.

2. Always wear white when you walk down the aisle (even it it's for the third time).

3. Never wear white shoes before Easter or after Labor Day. The only exception, of course, is if your a bride. Bridesmaids, however, must never where white shoes. Bridesmaids' shoes should match the punch.

4. It doesn't matter if you marry a man who doesn't know the difference between a shrimp fork and a pickle fork; you can always teach him. Just make sure he can afford to buy you both.

5. Never date your sorority sister's ex-husband until at least three years after the divorce. You might need her to write your daughter a Kappa Kappa Gamma recommendation one day. Just remember it's a lot easier to find a new man than it is to get your daughter into Kappa.

6. Never marry a man whose mother and grandmother owned silver plate instead of real silver. He's not used to quality and he'll try to cheat you on the divorce settlement.

7. It's never to soon to write a thank-you note. Some belles take the notes and a pen with them to a party. In the middle of the evening they go into the ladies' room and write a thank-you describing how much they enjoyed the dinner (naming specific items). They then put the note in the mailbox as they leave. The hostess receives it first thing in the morning. Sure this is compulsive, but you're going to have to be compulsive if you wnat to be president of Junior Leaugue.

8. Never show your bosum before evening and never wear an ankle bracelet before anything. Girls who wear ankle bracelets usually end up twirling batons. The has never been a baton twirler who became Miss American and there certainly never been a baton twirler in Junior League.

9. Never chew gum in public and never smoke on the street.

10. Buy low, sell high.*

*Schwarts, Maryln, A Southern Belle Primer, Or Why Princess Margaret will never be a Kappa Kappa Gamma/Maryln Schwartz. - 1 edition, 1991, Doubleday

For more funnies get your own copy at:

My personal vice...

2011-06-24T08:47:00.001-05:00

Photo Property of

This week hasn't been the easiest of weeks (ask anyone who lives with me!) You see, I decided I needed a little personal rehab from my addiction to...caffeine. Oh, the shame! My caffeine was delivered daily through a steady stream of Diet Dr. Pepper or Diet Coke, preferably in a Route 44 cup from Sonic...oh, Sonic, how I love thee....whoops that is a slippery slope. I am not a coffee drinker but somehow morhped into someone was desperately hopped up on caffeine from sodas. I mean, like I was very serious about my soda! First thing in the morning I would stumble to the fridge for that first hit before stopping by the medicine cabinet for my 1st round of headache meds...it was a vicious cycle. So last week, after realizing just how many OTC pain meds I was taking, I decided it was probably related to my massive intake of soda/caffeine and some kind of rebound on the headache (and the OTC meds.) Fast forward to this week, I have had no caffeine (soda or other form) since Sunday night. Also, I have NO OTC meds for headaches!!! Headaches, I have had...but, of course, they were worse the first 2 or 3 days off the beautiful amber liquid. Here I am, entering day 5...and no one has died...~~yet~~...just call me Dr. Drew!

Retail Therapy Thursday: The BEST wedding or shower gift

2011-06-23T17:22:00.000-05:00

Do you have one of these? I think they are just wonderful!!! There are so many uses for them from return addresses, goody bags, thank yous or even making your own stationary or card inserts. They also make a super gift for any soon to be Bride because what Bride doesn't enjoy seeing her new initial or monogram on everything? These little gems are on sale right now! I have seen them in shops locally for upwards of $50 but at 2 Preppy Girls they are only $30. One really thing that is pretty neat about these stampers is that if you already have the PSA stamper body, then they can purchase only the new designs or address info disks - just fill out the same screens but use the drop down box that says new info disk only. You can buy interchangeable anytime!

{Semi} Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T11:50:00.001-05:00

This past week found me kind of busy and blogger hasn't liked me a whole lot, so I didn't do a Father's Day post! Today, though, I am posting a photo of my Mother's Father, who died many years before I was born, as part of {Semi} Wordless Wednesday over at Flip Flops & Pearls. I just love this old photo, from the vintage recliner to the Coke calendar hanging on the wall. Sometimes I think I was just born too late!

Monday Mommy Musings

2011-06-13T12:24:00.000-05:00

This week is VBS at my church and for the first time in many years I feel a renewed sense of excitement about being involved. Last year we were in the middle of a move so we didn't participate in VBS and maybe that is why I am more excited than usual. Either way, I am honored to be part of VBS! It is so much fun meeting and greeting all those sweet little faces. This year I am acutely aware of how my response to these impressionable little people can make or break their view on church and possibly in a greater sense... what being a Christian represents. If a child looks up and only sees impatient and scowling big people in relation to church, that is what they will associate with being a Christian (that stands true for all of us!) On the other hand, if they feel welcomed and accepted their heart will be softened and open to learning about Christ and true Christianity.

I cringe to think of the times when I might have not been the best example or face of Christ to another...especially to my own children. Did my response close up a heart? Did my thoughtlessness cause someone to avoid church or Christ? It is heartbreaking to think how casually I have often taken my position as a Christian. I am trying to remember that I don't know what is happening in these children's lives and if I can make their day just a little bit brighter I want to take advantage of that opportunity. The world is such a hard, cold place...I hope that VBS can be a wonderful, warm, fun, place for these sweet little souls even if it is just for a little while.

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me,

and do not hinder them,

for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these

~Matthew 19:14 (NIV)

{Semi} Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-08T07:37:00.000-05:00

Look who stopped for a visit,

Isn't he handsome?

Do you entertain outdoors in the Summer?

2011-06-07T09:19:00.002-05:00

Do you like to entertain (whether for friends or just for your own family) outdoors during the Summer months? We do. One of our favorite things about our house is that we have a wonderful back yard with plenty of space to have friends. But even when we have lived in different houses without such space, we usually utilized what we did have (which even sometimes included the driveway!). I think spending time outdoors just makes the time sweeter!

Sandy, over at the Reluctant Entertainer, is doing a wonderful series called "30 Days of Summer Entertaining" which has been great and makes me want to take every opportunity this summer to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family! Check it out:

30 Days of Summer Entertaining

Also, if you are like me and are alwasy looking for motivation and inspiration for simple ways to share your life with your friends and practice the art of hospitality check out Sandy's book, The Reluctant Entertainer

Monday Mommy Musings

2011-06-06T16:51:00.000-05:00

my youngest when he was 4

Today has been one of those busy “Mom Days”. You know the ones where you have tons of laundry to fold, a grocery list to make, shopping and errands to do. Nothing hard, just time consuming. One of those days when I feel like I have missed so much time with my children. But also today, as I have gone about my tasks, I have had some heavy thoughts on my mind about being a Mother.

Last night, a friend told me the background of a couple of children I am acquainted with. They have been casual playmates of my children in different activities, but we don’t really know their family and from what I have seen they always seem to be happy go lucky…normal, everyday children. I was heartbroken to find out that these children have faced horrible abuse and unimaginable horrors in their short little lives. And the saddest thing…these terrible unspeakable pains were heaped upon them from the very people that should have loved and protected them most, their parents….and as a Mom, it horrifies me to know that a Mother could do something like this. My friend was not sharing in a gossipy way but as one Mom to another...sharing her heart with me.

So, my mind and heart have wandered around today pondering on the perils of children who have had their smiles, laughter and had childhoods ripped from them by the very people they love the most. Of course, you always hear of abuse and I know it has been around since the beginning of time. but that is no reason not to be shocked and angered by its presence. Unfortunately, we can become so complacent and just think “Oh, how sad” but never stop and really think about what it means to a little heart and soul. Wounds may heal, but those scars remain.

Today when I was out doing my errands, I felt like I was a acutely aware of each set of little eyes that looked up at me. I went out of my way to look directly at each little soul and smile, because it breaks my heart to think there are children who don’t know what it is like to have someone smile at them each and every day. I don’t really know where I am going with this post; it was just on my mind…Now I am off to hug my boys.

Retail Therapy Thursday!

2011-06-02T15:22:00.000-05:00

Now that this sweet pup (Macy) is part of our family, I have realized it opens up a whole new avenue for retail therapy! I didn't realize all the fun options I have for making this little ball of fur look even cuter than she already is. Of course, one of the first things she needs is a cute and oh, so preppy dog collar and leash. Of course, I turned to my favorite prepster supplier 2 Preppy Girls and found these adorable Preppy Personalized Dog Collars and Leashes:

Preppy Personalized Dog Collars and Leashes

They are fully personalizable with your choice of 6 base webbing colors and a wonderful selection of 26 different ribbons and 13 thread colors. You even have a choice of fonts.

Arent' they cute????

Now all I have to do is decide which one my pamerped pooch is going to be sporting! Decisions....Decisions.....

{Semi} Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-01T07:19:00.001-05:00

My grandmother feeding my Mother...but notice,even back then,

Coke was the real thing!

Please see "The Legal Stuff" to the left.