Showing posts with label miscellaneous. Show all posts
Showing posts with label miscellaneous. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Summers in Vegas

Summers in Vegas
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
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Now that summer is (technically) over, this is what our first summer in Vegas looked like...

...warm HOT weather.

...SUNSHINE. Never ending sunshine.

...downpour for 10 minutes and then there's sunshine again.

...eating dinner outside.

...afternoons inside somewhere in the AC a/k/a hibernating.

...shorts, tank tops, dresses, sandals. REPEAT. The less clothing the better.

...pool time...pool time...pool time.

...sunscreen.

...swimsuits.

...sweating all.the.time. Even at night.

This will be our first winter in Vegas and it will be interesting to say the least. I know it's different for people that grew up in Vegas, but people wearing down jackets is just silly to me. Anywho, here is to more new experiences and firsts

Until next time.
Monday, August 31, 2015

Want List {September 2015}

Want List {September 2015}
Monday, August 31, 2015
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I talked about wanting a new blog design HERE. I just feel like I need to change things up a bit. It's been two years since my last blog redesign. I feel like it's the equivalent to buying a new purse, you need to change up your look every once in awhile. It puts a little more pep in your step. Nothing expensive or extravagant, just something simple, but new.

Speaking of new purses. I am going to try and sell some of my older COACH purses. We'll see how that goes. I'm not sure exactly how to do it, but I need to. Do apps like POSHMARK really work or is EBAY better? I have way too many that I don't use and would love to give them new homes.

I have my eye on a couple new purses from JustFab, but have been hesitating on biting the bullet. Again, something new, nothing expensive, just new. I want the BROOKS in Cobalt and the ZACHARY in white.




I also want THESE boots from JustFab. I think they would be a great addition to my winter wardrobe. Even though winter in Vegas is completely different than winter in Minnesota, I love the color and detail.

Wayne recently took over our home laptop for work purposes. Which is a good thing, because now he can work from home which is super exciting. BUT now I feel myself having to sit at our desktop computer for everything which isn't always possible or comfortable for long periods of time. First world problems I tell you.  I miss being able to sit in the rocking chair or on the couch or in bed and having that flexibility. I have my eye on THIS one. It's nothing special or huge. Just a very basic PC. For what I use it for I think it would be just fine. And it's pink and girly.



I need a new wallet and have had my eye on a Michael Kors wallet for quite sometime. I like THIS one in Chili. I've had the same Coach wallet since high school and it's starting to fall apart. I would like to find a nice one to replace it.

I want a good pair of cowboy boots. I have wanted a pair for awhile, but they can be expensive. There is a country festival coming to Vegas in October and I would love to get a pair before then, but we'll see. I really like these. Brown and simple with a little bit of detail.

 That's all for now friends. Anything you've been wanting lately?
Monday, September 8, 2014

I'm Back!

I'm Back!
Monday, September 8, 2014
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Well Hello Friends,

After taking the summer off, I am BACK! It was an unintentional break, but much needed.

I wanted to spend as much time as I could enjoying the beautiful Minnesota summer with my family. It's only the second week of September and we're already forecasted for 50's this week. Ugh. (Summer don't leave us yet!) It always goes way too fast!

A quick little update:

I started a new job at the beginning of June after a month long transition from my old job, into a temp position, and then into my current position. After three months at the new firm, it's still going great. I love my two bosses and everyone I work with. I really missed the big firm environment with the staff meetings, treat days and even a monthly firm lunch. And even though I am much, MUCH busier (read = not much personal time during the work day), it's truly a great place to work.

Hailey turned 3 years old over the summer and is doing great. She's continuing in her pre-school classroom at her daycare center. She is getting so big and I fear her turning 4 years old will be here before I know it. Wah! She's truly developing into her own little person with her own opinions and likes/dislikes. She started dance class this past Saturday and although it's quite a commitment on the parents part, I am excited to see her grow and learn.



Wayne also turned another year older this summer and stayed busy with lots of work events, softball  and we made it through another year of the State Fair!

After both of us taking a haitus from the gym this summer, we are greatly looking forward to getting back at it very soon!

I have missed you all and the blogging world and so happy to be back!


Friday, March 28, 2014

Friday Favorites {03.28.2014}

Friday Favorites {03.28.2014}
Friday, March 28, 2014
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I was going to post this on Wednesday for "What I'm Loving Wednesday", but of course life got in the way, so I re-titled it and decided to do Friday Favorites!

I'm not linking up with anyone this week.

Just throwing out there some of my favorite things lately!

*****
If you know me, you know I am a huge fan and long time viewer of the show The Bachelor/ette. I am also a big fan of Ashley & JP. They announced this week that they are pregnant! I love hearing that some of these reality TV relationships actually make it and succeed.


*****

Another magazine cover. Have they always had this People Country Special? Is it a monthly thing? Or just a special? I don't know, but I LOVE Miranda Lambert and need to look into this. Isn't she pretty?


*****

These are a few products I have been loving lately:

Equate Cocoa Butter Body Conditioning Lotion - I have loved the way it smells and works on my dry skin this winter, plus it's on the cheaper side, so it's good for the wallet, too. It really soaks into the skin and doesn't come off leaving my hands sticky as some lotions do. I just love it all around.

The Curve from NYX (liquid liner) - Ulta had a BOGO sale on all NYX products awhile back, so I decided to take advantage of it. I actually got 4 things, but this has been my favorite so far. I love everything about it.

*****

Jared Allen to Da Bears: Although this one makes me sad because he is not a Viking anymore, I am happy for him that he gets to continue to play football and his career is not ending.


*****

Taco Salad: I made this for dinner earlier in the week and have been eating from it all week long. I HAVE to have Doritos with mine.


*****

I am so excited to see some of my blogger friends tomorrow at the 2nd Annual Favorite Things Party. I will be sure to re-cap it sometime next week, as I am sure many of the other bloggers will be doing. I didn't get a chance to go last year, but it looks like there will be twice as many people going. I will get to meet some new faces as well as see some of my favorites.

*****

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I love this show and it has been so good lately. I don't want to give anything away if people are still getting caught up, but it's fast become one of my favorites this season. The twists and turns are really starting to come out. Does anyone else watch this show or just me?

That's about it for this week. Hope you have a great weekend!

Come connect with me:

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Lent {2014}

Lent {2014}
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
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Hi friends. Sorry I have been MIA. It's been a crazy couple of weeks with me being sick and still recovering and then a sick Hubby AND a sick little one. It's just so exhausting and I feel like I am JUST getting my world back on track and into some sort of routine again.

I wanted to touch on the subject of Lent and what I am giving up this year. I usually try and think hard about something sort of sacrificing in my life and go with it. This year is no different and although I have struggled with it (it hasn't even been a week, yet), I am so glad I decided on this particular thing to "give up."

This is NOT a religious post by any means, but more of sharing with you all and holding myself accountable in this little journey until April 20th, which is Easter.



That's right folks. You read it. I am going to refrain from personal clothes shopping for myself until after Easter.

A few exceptions I am giving myself...I have several special occasions between now and April 20th (Easter):

A Bachelorrete party;
A wedding shower;
2 birthday parties;
2 SURPRISE birthday parties;
A wedding;
A baby shower; and
Oh yes, my birthday.

Uffda. That seems like a lot between now and then, but such is life. I will be allowing myself to MAYBE purchase something for those, but I am limiting it to those occasions only and ONLY if I need something.

I LOVE to shop (especially online), so when I told my Mom and sisters about this, they were like,.."Wha? Huh? Well, good luck with that!"

My Mom already asked me if I wanted to go shopping this past Saturday when I was down there visiting. Um. Yes, I would LOVE to, but no, I am going to refrain.

So that's that. I'm not limiting myself as far as make-up or toiletry items are concerned. I just can't go that far. But I think if I put a limit on my general spending, it will be a step in the right direction for saving money and make us one step closer to that HOUSE!

Are you giving anything up for Lent?

Come connect with me:
Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Bloglovin | Google+
Monday, February 3, 2014

3 Tips for the Instagram User

3 Tips for the Instagram User
Monday, February 3, 2014
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When I pull up a new account that I am thinking of following, I try and give them the benefit of the doubt. I try and not judge an account by it's pictures, even though sometimes it can be hard.  Here are my 3 very simple guidelines when following or unfollowing an Instagram account.

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Visual Portfolio of Your Life.

I want to see a life. Not just things or products or food, but people, too. Actual people doing actual things. Of course I like seeing those products or food items, etc., but I also like seeing that there is an actual person (or family) behind the account that I can connect with and not just a robot. Which brings me to my second point.

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Connect.

One of the things I like most about Instagram is the connection with other people. I like looking at a moment in their day, week, or life and either learning something FROM them or relating TO them somehow. I like when people comment on my pictures (obviously), but I like it even more when I comment on other people's pictures and actually get some sort of response from them. Even if it's a simple "Thanks." A small acknowledgment goes a long way and it helps me strengthen not only blogger relationships, but real life relationships as well. 

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Make it Inviting.

This one is a two in one. This not only relates to the pictures in the feed itself, but your account as a whole. If that makes any sense. By no means do the pictures have to be fancy (you all know mine are not), but I guess what I'm trying to say is also be vulnerable. It's not about making just the pictures somewhat appealing to look at visually, but being honest, genuine and open with your life as a whole.

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Pretty simple, right? Now go Instagram!!

You can find me @MrsMamaD


Wednesday, November 6, 2013

8 Must Haves for Attending a Blog Conference

8 Must Haves for Attending a Blog Conference
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
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These are my 8 must have items if you are attending a conference or thinking about attending a conference.

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(1) Paper & (2) Pen

There is a reason I put this first. I bought a cute little notebook from Target that I still use for all things blog related.  I took so many great notes throughout the day that I still look back on for reminders. I wanted to make sure I was getting all of the speakers tips down as they were speaking, as well as anything else I wanted to jot down throughout the day. Also, it's all in one place so I can easily find it.

The personalized pen I got with my business cards and I LOVE it!  

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(3) Business Cards

I invested in these and I'm so glad I did. I went through VistaPrint and also got the pen pictured above. They also have tons of other products that you can customize. They both match my blog design, which I highly recommend. . That way when people go and visit your blog or site, they will easily relate to it cause they have seen it before. It was so great to exchange these with the other ladies I met. After getting home, I could review them, go visit their blog and/or go follow them on their social media outlets. I even wrote a few notes on them as people were giving them to me. If something stood out in our conversation or we had something in common, I jotted that down on the card for reference later.

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(4) Electronics i.e. iPad and/or iPhone

I'm so glad I decided to bring my iPad along. I actually ended up using this more throughout the day than my iPhone, which was great because the battery lasts so much longer. I didn't use my iPhone as much, which meant that my iPhone stayed pretty well charged. I can't go anywhere without my phone (mostly for child/babysitter reasons), but I keep a digital calendar and I also used this to take a few pictures of things, since I didn't bring an actual camera. I could keep it in my pocket at all times and was pretty covered throughout the day.

I used my iPad mostly to take some photos of slides from the various speakers slideshows. If I felt like there was just too much information to write down, then I would snap a picture of the slide for later use.

(5) Chargers

I actually bring these everywhere with me anyways, but I would say especially to a conference. I personally didn't need them, but I did have a couple people who borrowed mine and were in need of them. 

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(6) Calendar or Planner

Like I said above. I do keep a digital calendar in my phone, but I need, need, need my handwritten calendar for further planning and notes. There is just nothing like it. Visit Erin Condren for a planner like the one shown above. I love how I can customize it to show my life and personality.

(7) Cute & Comfortable Outfit

I knew it was going to be a long day, so I went with business casual pants, a dressy tee, and a cardigan with flats. It's an outfit that I actually wear to work. I felt good in what I was wearing and I am so glad I brought a cardigan as I was constantly hot/cold. Also, I am glad I wore flats. There is nothing worse than hurting feet while you're trying to mingle and make conversation.

(8) Confidence

I was terrified at first to put myself out there, but you know what? So was everyone else. And if they aren't they are a liar. Everyone is in the same boat. Everyone is putting themselves out there. Be confident in your brand and in yourself. There is no one else out there like you.

Find me:

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

The Sunshine Award (2013)

The Sunshine Award (2013)
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
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So instead of a depressing 9/11 post with pictures, videos, etc., I decided to keep it positive and complete my Sunshine Award. We are never going to forget what happened on 9/11 and no amount of pictures, etc. will make me feel any better about it. Plus, it's all we see online or on the news. So that's that. All I can say is God Bless America.

I was so honored when I read that Kayla from Kayla Layla nominated me for a Sunshine Award! As I said in THIS POST, I just can't get enough of her.

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A Sunshine Award is given to bloggers whose posts brighten your day.

Here are the rules:

1. Include award logo in a post or on your blog (above).

2. Link to the person who nominated you.

3. Answer 10 questions about yourself.

4. Nominate 10 bloggers to receive the award.

5. Link your nominees to the post and comment on their blogs letting them know they’ve been nominated.

Here are Kayla's Questions for her nominees and my answers:

1. If you were a Real Housewife, what would your tagline be? If you don't watch it, I'll give you an example of what mine would be. "There's nothing wrong with being classy, sassy, and a bit smart ass-y!"

So I have to be honest. I have never seen an episode of any of the RH's series. Never. Ever. So I had to do a little research of what a tag-line was all about. I thought Kelly Killoren-Bensimon's line from S2 & S3 of DC fit me perfectly.

"I've created a great life and I love living it."

I don't know who Kelly is and it's a little more generic, but I could totally see myself changing my blog line to that instead of what I have now.

2. What is your favorite boy band of all time?

If you know me, you know I love ALL things Boy Band. For realz. You name em, I love them. But, if I had to pick just one, it would be The Backstreet Boys. They were the epitome of my teenage years.

3. Which member of The Brady Bunch can you most relate to?

Probably Marsha Brady. We both  have the oldest child syndrome. 

4. Will you be wearing white now that Labor Day has passed?

Yea. I'm not much of a rule follower with clothes and in Minnesota, if the weather is nice you wear it as long as you can, whether it be shorts, capris or dresses.

5. Nacho Cheese or Cooler Ranch Doritos?

I like both. Depends on my mood, but I usually prefer and have at home Nacho Cheese.

6. Describe something about yourself that you secretly love and wish others noticed more.

I don't know on this one. I have a lot of work to do on my post baby body, so it wouldn't be anything with that. The two things I normally get compliments on are my eyes and my dimple. That's pretty much it and that's totally fine by me.

7. Would you rather be deaf or blind?

Probably deaf. If I couldn't see my Hubs, Hailey, my family and friends, etc., I don't know what I would do.

8. Maury's Paternity Tests episodes or Out of Control Teens?

Both make me sad, but at least Paternity Tests is a brand newish life with potential. My heart breaks from seeing struggling people, especially teens.

9. If you could go back in time for 24 hours, where would you go and what would you do?

I would love to go back and re-live my wedding day. I know a lot of people would say their child's birth, but honestly, it was a painful couple days after she was born and although I'm so happy she is here and we are both healthy, I rather not re-live that pain of that day or time.

10. Who's sexier? Larry King or Steve Buscemi?

I would choose Steve Buscemi. I think one of his best traits is that he is funny, and that's one of my top must have traits. Also, I love him in the movie Armageddon. It's one of my all time favorite movies and I LOVE his character, Rockhound.

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The 10 bloggers that I am nominating are:

1. Sarah from Dreaming About Baby
2. Sarah from Midwest Pillowtalk
3. Jenn from Squishy Cheeks & Cupcakes
4. Kelly from Four Kids, a mini-van and a lot of love
5. Gabriella from Ramblings of a Girl
6. Katie from This is My Life
7. Jen from Wonderfully Unkempt
8. Momma B from Momma B Blog
9. Kenzie from Life According to Kenz
10. Andrea from Love Is

And the 10 questions I want them to answer are:

1. What is your favorite boy band of all time? If you are not a boy band fan, let us know why.

2. What is your favorite vacation spot?

3. What is the hardest thing you've ever had to do?

4. Wine, beer, or mixed drinks? What kind?

5. What's one thing you've been putting off?

6. Sweet or salty snacks? What is it?

7. If you could go back in time for 24 hours, where would you go and what would you do?

8. What is your next big goal for yourself?

9. What is your favorite app on your phone (or website if you don’t have a smartphone) BESIDES the usual social media ones (i.e. Facebook, IG, Twitter)?

10. Where is your favorite place to shop? For yourself.

I look forward to hearing from all of you lovely ladies!!!


Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Tuesday Tidbits {09.03.2013]

Tuesday Tidbits {09.03.2013]
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
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First off...WOWZA. I can't believe it's September already and we are experiencing fall weather. Not sure how I feel about that one yet. I know everyone is jumping on the Blogtember that is happening over at SOML, but I just am not that organized for that right now.

The MN State Fair is done and I, for one, am so happy about it. I finally have my Husband back and my life can go back to some kind of normal. We went 2 times this year, which is less than normal, but plenty this year with the heat. We got in all the yummy foods we needed and then some.

I usually take weekends off for blog posts and I counted yesterday as part of the weekend. So no Music Monday yesterday, but I'm already thinking of next week, so stay tuned.

My Babygirl starts full time daycare this week. Both of us decided to take her this morning, since she starts in a new room, with a new cubby, new(ish) teachers and new(ish) friends. Usually Wayne drops off and I pick up, but we both decided to go to make the transition complete. She's already been in this class off and on for about a month now, but she will officially be moved over starting today. We'll see how we all are at the end of the week. I know that a lot of parents are going through the whole 1st day of school business, so just know that I kind of get it, too, OK? OK.

We have regressed in the whole potty training department. She did SO good at the fair both Friday AND Saturday and then for some reason on Sunday she just wasn't into it. We were home most of the day, too and it just wasn't clicking. It's so hard to not get frustrated or discouraged, but I'm trying to not let it get to me. Monday was more of the same. I'm hoping to get her back on track this week and keep at it and hopefully school will help me re-enforce it as well.

Anyways, that's all I got for today. Hope everyone had a great long holiday weekend and I hope you all have a great first week of September.

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Never, Ever, Ever {08.27.2013}

Never, Ever, Ever {08.27.2013}
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
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I'm linking up with Neely today.

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Never, Ever, Ever...

will I hate taking a nap. I love my sleep, what can I say.

are there enough hours in the day. Never.

would I hate our summers here in Minnesota. Ever.

will I not own at least one dog. As hard as it is sometimes, they complete me.

stop being grateful for my wonderful family. Their support is like nothing else.

would I say no to going to the State Fair. I won't be going until this Friday. Wah!

would I hate sleeping in. Like I said, I LOVE my sleep.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

10 Favorite Things

10 Favorite Things
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
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I saw this on Sarah's blog and knew I wanted to do it, too!

TEN of my favorite foods:
- Chocolate cake
- Leann Chin
- My Mom's spaghetti
- Canadian Bacon + green olive pizza
- Mashed potatoes + gravy
- My Grandma's spaghetti hotdish
- Strawberries
- Ice Cream
- Chips + Salsa
- Popcorn with melted butter + salt

NINE of my all-time favorite movies:
- Shawshank Redemption
- Pretty Woman
- 17 Again
- The Blindside (pretty much anything with Sandra Bullock)
- Dirty Dancing
- Sweet Home Alabama
- Stepbrothers
- Seven
- The Hangover (#1)

EIGHT celebrities I'd like to marry:
- Channing Tatum
- Ryan Reynolds
- Zac Efron
- Taylor Kitsch
- Joe Manganiello
- Maksim Chmerkovskiy
- Paul Walker
- Ryan Gosling

SEVEN things I'm loving right now:
- Hailey, who is constantly keeping me on my toes.
- Wayne. No explanation needed ever.
- Slow days at work.
- Gearing up for the State Fair.
- NFL Football.
- My family. So thankful for them every single day.
- My friends. They bring such joy and fun to my life.

SIX places I'd like to visit someday:
- Santorini, Greece
- Germany
- London, England
- Paris, France
- Australia
- Rome, Italy

FIVE games I played as a child:
- Candyland
- Monopoly
- Guess Who
- Chutes & Ladders
- Capture the flag (outside game).

FOUR things I'd rather never see again:
- Cancer
- Child abuse
- Animal abuse
- Hungry people in the world

THREE things I'd like to do this year:
- Take a vacation
- Buy a house
- Baby #2

In that order, please.

TWO facts about me:
- I broke both of my wrists in the 3rd grade...at the same time.
- I'm a picky eater.

ONE meaning behind my blog name:
- I am a Mrs, A Mama and my last name starts with D. Also, my Hubs is known as Big D and people started calling me Mrs D or Mama D, so I decided to combine them and go with it.
Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Never Ever Ever {08.13.2013}

Never Ever Ever {08.13.2013}
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
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This is my first time doing this link up with the lovely ladies above.

Never Ever Ever......

Will I love the fact that Hailey is growing up way too fast.

Will I hate reality tv.

Will I say "No, I don't like Zumba."

Will I not carry a phone charger in my purse (Stole this from Neely as it is so true! I also carry my iPad charger with me at all times, too).

Will I not love a rainy, lazy day.

Will I not be excited for NFL football to start!

Will I not love Britney Spears.

Will I say "No, I DON'T want to go to the MN State Fair."

Will I ever be a morning person. Just. No.
Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Childhood Story

Childhood Story
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
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Welcome to my "Blog Every Day in May Challenge" going on over at Jenni's Story of My Life.

Go see the list HERE for the whole month.

Disclaimer: I know it is not May anymore, but I only got half way through the month's challenge and want to finish with these topics. 

Day 18 for Saturday, May 18th: Tell a story from your childhood. Dig deep and try to be descriptive about what you remember and how you felt.

The one major event that sticks out to me is the day my sister, Keli Jo, passed away from SIDS. It was March 15th. It was a hot and sunny day. I was in the 6th grade. I remember playing with her that morning before school. I remember vividly getting off the bus and greeting my aunt Jamie. I thought it was weird that she was there after a school day in the middle of the week. Internally I was asking myself why, but didn't actually say anything.

I remember walking the block up to my house from the bus. I remember it being the longest walk of my life. I didn't want to run, for fear of the unknown, so I just kept walking. I knew something was up. The air had changed. I don't remember if Jamie was talking to me. I think my little brother was there too. But I just kept walking. I knew I wanted to get to my Mom and Dad as soon I could.

I remember walking in the door to our house and seeing all these people. I remember walking up the stairs of our split level house to even more people. I don't remember exactly who was all there. A handful of close family and friends. I know our pastor for sure.

I remember my parents sitting me down on the couch and telling me that Keli had died and that she was in heaven and she wasn't coming back and if I had any questions or wanted to say anything. I honestly don't remember what else they said or if I said anything. All's I remember is tears. Lots and lots of tears and crying. I remember the feeling of hopelessness that I wouldn't get to hold her again or kiss her again or even say goodbye. She was just 3 months old. Babies weren't supposed to die, only old people. In my brain that's what I was thinking and up until that point that was the only form of death I had experienced. I changed that day. My Mom changed that day. My Dad changed that day. My brother changed that day. My family as a whole changed that day.

Still until this day, I give both my parents credit for sticking together. They roughed out the hard times. Also, now that I have my own daughter, I can't imagine the amount of pain they each went through respectively. I don't know if I would be strong enough to get through it. I know why they did. For me and my brother. And I do believe that everything happens for a reason. Even death.

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I know that my Mom's birthday (12/17) will be a hard day for the rest of our lives. It was also her birthday. I also know that March 15th is a hard day as that is the day she passed. I know she would have turned 18 this past December and she would have graduated this year in June.

I also know that without that great loss, we wouldn't have Amie and Kate. I don't know what my life would have been like with Keli, but I do know what it is like with Amie & Kate and by God how blessed am I to have those two in my life.
Thursday, January 31, 2013

New look!!!

New look!!!
Thursday, January 31, 2013
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Hey y'all!

So I got a new look here and I love it! I came up with the concept and my friend Lauren implemented it. She did such a great job. I think it's basic and to the point and totally me. I'm hoping this design will help me get out of my blogging funk and kick my butt into gear to get caught up and stay caught up.

Yay for new things!

Photobucket
Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Show and Tell: Baby Talk

Show and Tell: Baby Talk
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
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Going to link up with Becky at From Mrs to Mama for:


1. Tell us your favorite baby names? Aside from your own babies, if you have some :)

We knew we always wanted Hailey Jo as a girl name. No questions about it. We just really liked the name Hailey and Jo is my Mom's middle name and we think the two fit together perfect.

Then for a boy name we thought we had Joseph Todd all picked out. Joseph is my Grandpa's middle name and Todd is my Hub's Dad's name who died when he was 12. I like names that can be shortened or have nick names so I was totally loving the 2 together with all the different possibilites. I also like having at least 1 of the names come from somewhere meaningful.

Then when we actually got pregnant and decided we weren't thrilled with our boy name, we started over. We decided on Carter James. Carter because we love it and James because it was my Hub's Great Uncles' middle name. So there you have it.

I do like William for another boy name. And I like Eva or Ava for a girl name. It has to go good with Hailey, but I wouldn't want it to be anything too similar either.

2. Show me your "dream" nursery {can be your baby's nursery or one that you love}

While it's not necessarily my "dream" nursery, it is perfect for us and fits our needs. See Hailey's Bedroom HERE.

A couple girl rooms I like:

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And for a boy:

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3. How many children would you like to have? How far apart?

I am 1 of 4. Hubs is 1 of 2. We definitely want at least 2. I always wanted 4, but now that I have 1 and she is a lot of work sometimes, I'm thinking we will go for 2 and then decide from there. Hubs is set on 2. He doesn't think we should outnumber ourselves. I think it will also depend on if baby #2 is a boy or girl.

I want to wait until Hailey is at least 2 or 2 1/2 years old before even trying. I don't want her to grow up too fast and be worrying about another pregnancy. I also want to enjoy her and see all her FIRSTS. I also want her to be able to be a good big sister and help us when she can with her little brother or sister. I think it's important to make them feel as involved as possible. If Hubs had it is his way, we would have started on #2 awhile ago.Ha!

4. Tell us what you think the importance of parenting is?

What a loaded question. I think there are so many important things about being a parent and not one specific right answer. I think most of it depends on your values and how you were raised. You either want to do some of the same things as your parents did or you want to do some things differently. I think for us a few that stick out are:

Being a good role-model and setting a good example. As not only a mother and father, but Husband and Wife.
Not just teaching values with words, but practicing them, too.
Being affectionate. Showing and telling them. Saying I love you and giving hugs and kisses.
Letting them explore and be their own person, but also set boundaries and rules.

5. Show us your favorite newborn photo {can be your children or random}

I posted a few of my favorites from Hailey's newborn photoshoot HERE.

6. Tell us some things you promise to never do as a parent {and if you are a parent, did you stick to it}.

I can only think of a couple.

I always thought onesies were not an appropriate outfit. Now that I have my own, that's all she wore this summer. Everywhere. All the time. They are just so easy.

I always thought my kid would wear shoes all the time, even if they didn't need to. Nope. We went (and sometimes still) go places shoe-less. Hailey wasn't a fan of shoes up until the last month or so. Good thing, because winter is on it's way and she won't have a choice.

Go visit Becky and link up!

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Wednesday, August 8, 2012

7 Questions {08.08.2012}

7 Questions {08.08.2012}
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
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Linking up with Gentri Lee's 7 Questions


1. The Olympics are awesome! What's your favorite Summer Olympic event to watch?

I love swimming, gymnastics and sand volleyball. I know they are probably the most popular, but I don't care.

2. If you could compete in an Olympic event (either season), which would it be?

And be good at it? Gymnastics. I would love to be able to flip and fly like some of those ladies! Plus, I would be in great shape.

3. Would you rather be tickled to death or poked (by finger) constantly for the rest of your life?

OMG! Such a hard question. Probably poked, because I hate being tickled.

4. Do you keep your nails long or short? Square or round?

My real nails...short. Right now I have fakes on and have had them since February. The fakes are square-ish.

5. Do you think you're funny?

Sometimes. Few and far between. My Hubs on the other hand is the funniest person ever!

6. When you have something you're looking forward to SO much, but it's still a ways off, what do you do to keep yourself distracted?

I try and look forward to something else in between the big stuff. Even if it's something small.

7. You've just won an Olympic Gold Medal! What are you going to do next?!?!

Go on vacation to somewhere tropical and exotic. Please. And. Thank You. 

Mrs. Mama D
Tuesday, July 17, 2012

411 on MrsMamaD

411 on MrsMamaD
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
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I am linking up with Becky for the 411.


1. How long have you been blogging? And what got you started on blogging? Has your blog changed?

March of 2010. My Husband and I had decided to start a family and I wanted to get my blog up and going before I was actually pregnant. I had some high school Facebook friends that were posting about their blogs with their family happenings and I thought it was a great idea. I'm a scrapbooker, but have fallen in love with blogging. It's so much easier, fast and cheaper!

P.S. I still scrapbook. I can't totally give it up.

My blog is about my life...Hailey, Wayne, my pups, social media, tv, movies, fashion. Anything and everything.

2. Did you go to college? If so where, and what did you study?

Minnesota School of Business. Associate's in Applied Science for Paralegal. Have been in the law field since 2003.

3. Where have you traveled?

Mostly to Florida. Husband had family there. They moved to New York 2 years ago and we just took our first trip to visit them at the end of June.

I have been to LA once for a work trip for the Hubs.

Kansas a few times when I was young to visit family.

Arkansas to visit family a couple times in the last couple years.

I have never been outside of the US, but hope to go someday!

4. If you won the lottery, what would be the first thing you would buy?

A house. In the process of looking, but not seeing anything I love.

5. What are your 3 biggest pet peeves?

1. Ignorant people.
2. Sitting in traffic.
3.People who don't know common courtesy.

6. What is your favorite movie?

Depends on my mood. I love Taken with Liam Neeson. I love 17 Again with Zac Efron. I love Sweet Home Alabama with Resse Witherspoon. I could watch these movies over and over again.

7. What is your drink of choice; wine, beer, or liquor. Or Water, Soda, Tea?

Non-alcoholic: coke or water
Alcoholic: Riesling or Pinot or Mich Golden Light

8. What is something you enjoy to do when you have me time?

Blog, TV/DVR, read, scrapbook, photography.

Don't have much time to read since Hailey was born, but I still try and fit it in when I can.

9. If you could have a $10,000 shopping spree to one store, which store would it be?

Target. You can find anything and everything there.

10. Share with us an embarrassing moment of your past? Or present.

The only thing I can think of is sometimes in certain heels I can be clumsy and I can trip over my feet. That can be a weekly occurrence.

11. What day would you love to relive again?

My wedding day. Hands down. I loved it so much. It was perfect and I wouldn't have changed anything about it

Most people pick their children's birth days, but Hailey's wasn't great for her or me, so I rather not re-live that.

12. If your life was turned into a movie... what actor would play you?

Jennifer Garner. I've been told I look like her, which is OK in my book. Plus I totally LOVE everything about her.

13. What are the jobs you had in high school/college/the early years?

I had one. Photographer at Proex. I started when I was 16 and did that until I was 20, out of college and had a legal job.

14. Show us a picture from high school or college.

My digital pics start in 2005. This is summer 2005. The summer before my Grandpa passed. I was 22 in this picture.

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That's me. Top left in the white shirt.

15. If you could travel anywhere in the world, all expenses paid, where would you go?

Greece. I have always wanted to go there. And I mean the Greece you see in the movies. Yes, that Greece.

16. Show us the most current picture of you or you and your family.

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The 3 of us on our plane ride to New York. Love it!

17. Where do you see your life 5 years from now?

Going on 11 years of marriage (Going on 6 right now).
Hailey starting school with a younger sibling (or 2).
In a house...finally.
Still in the family law field as a paralegal somewhere.
Still doing photography on the side.
Still loving and living life.

Thanks for visiting!

Mrs. Mama D
Thursday, March 29, 2012

Tag! You're It!

Tag! You're It!
Thursday, March 29, 2012
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I love finding new blogs and making new friends.

I've been tagged by Momma B. Go check out her blog HERE!

I found her blog, not too long ago, then I found out she lives in Minnesota and is also a Legal Assistant, too. 

What a small world!

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The rules:
*Post these rules.
*Answer the 11 questions that the tagger posted for you.
*Create 11 questions of your own to ask the people that you're about to tag.
*Tag 11 people and link them with your post (and let them know they've been tagged!).

Here are the questions I received:

1. When did you start blogging?

March of 2010.

2. What made you start your blog?

My Husband and I had decided to start a family and I wanted to get my blog up and going before I was actually pregnant. I had some high school Facebook friends that were posting about their blogs with their family happenings and I thought it was a great idea. I'm a scrapbooker, but have fallen in love with blogging. It's so much easier, fast and cheaper!

P.S. I still scrapbook. I can't totally give it up.

3. What do you like to read about on other people's blogs?

Anything and everything to do with relationships, kids, products, fashion, celebrities, entertainment, etc. You name it, I'm interested.

4. Have you ever regretted anything you've blogged?

No. I try and keep my blog positive, so I try not to do ranting and raving posts.

5. What state/country are you from?

Minnesota!

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(source)

6. Where was the last place you went on vacation?

I took a mini-vacatin back in October for a long weekend down to Arkansas. My Great-Grandma lives down there and it was great for her to meet Hailey. I'm so glad we did, because now she has been in Hospice since the middle of February. Before that it was April of 2010 when i went with Green Grandma down to Florida for a week.

7. Would you go back?

Yes to both. I've been to Arkansas 2 times and to Florida a few times now to visit family and friends that live there.

8. Where's your favorite place to shop?

New York and Company and Maurices. Love everything at both of those stores!

9. What's your favorite nail polish?

Not huge into nail polish. I usually get my nails done at a salon. I guess OPI is my favorite.

10. Are you a 'pinner'?

Yes. You can find me HERE. Follow me and leave a comment with yours and I will follow you back!

11. Have you ever done anything you've pinned? Made a recipe/project/etc...

Not yet. I'm thinking I might for Hailey's 1st birthday though.

Now, here is who I am tagging!




Gabriella from Two Peeps and a Pooch

Kait at Mrs. DIY and the Tennis Guy

Andrea at The Funso Four

I enjoy reading all of these lovely lady blogs! Go check them out!

And here are your 11 questions:

1. What is your favorite vacation spot?
2. What is your occupation?
3. What is your favorite movie?
4. What is your favorite TV show?
5. What is your favorite sport to watch? Team?
6. What is your favorite music group?
7. What is your favorite scent?
8. Who is your guy celebrity crush?
9.  Who is your girl celebrity crush?
10. What is your favorite book and why?
11. What is one thing I haven't asked that you would like to tell us about yourself?

 I tried to keep the questions short and easy.
Hope you can play along!
Thanks to Momma B for the tag!

Mrs. Mama D
Tuesday, September 6, 2011

A newborn's conversation with God . . .

A newborn's conversation with God . . .
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
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I got this in an email and couldn't resist posting. It touched my heart and is so true.

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A baby asked God, "They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow, but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?"

God said, "Your angel will be waiting for you and will take care of you."

The child further inquired, "But tell me, here in heaven I don't have to do anything but sing and smile to be happy."

God said, "Your angel will sing for you and will also smile for you. And you will feel your angel's love and be very happy."

Again the small child asked, "And how am I going to be able to understand when people talk to me if I don't know the language?"

God said, "Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words you will ever hear, and with much patience and care, your angel will teach you how to speak."

"And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?"

God said, "Your angel will place your hands together and will teach you how to pray."

"Who will protect me?"

God said, "Your angel will defend you even if it means risking its life."

"But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore."

God said, "Your angel will always talk to you about Me and will teach you the way to come back to Me, even though I will always be next to you."

At that moment there was much peace in Heaven, but voices from Earth could be heard and the child hurriedly asked, "God, if I am to leave now, please tell me my angel's name."

God said, You will simply call her, "Mom."

Leah
Friday, June 24, 2011

Funny Friday {06.24.2011}

Funny Friday {06.24.2011}
Friday, June 24, 2011
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A woman was sipping on a glass of wine, while sitting on the patio with her husband.

She says, "I love you so much, I don't know how I could ever live without you."

Her husband asks, "Is that you, or the wine talking?"

She replies, "It's me...talking to the wine."

Leah
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