I've Waited 8 Months for This Day....

Since becoming a momma, I'm trying to also be more "domestic." Actually, if you've noticed, for the last year or so, I've been more motivated to cook. I'm calling it "nesting." You call it whatever you want. :) But Honky Tonk Hubby, is enjoying it. I've been cooking and baking so much lately!

Months ago, I found Made It. Ate It. Loved It. And I LOVE it! One of the recipes I really wanted to try, was this bread. But I was pregnant, and didn't want to eat. Was sicker than I'd like to remember. But I printed it out. And knew, in a few short months, it would be cool enough to bake again. You know, not triple digits!

8 months later, I'm baking bread! I know!! I shocked myself. :) But this recipe seemed easy enough! I just had to try it. And my house, smells AMAZING right now!! Mouth watering, OMG-ing, I can't wait until the bread is baked....GOODNESS!!

I'm telling you, if I can do it, so can you! It's not that bad. And what is better than fresh bread and butter? When it's cool outside. And there's stew making in the crock pot. I can't wait for dinner! If you don't hear from me in days, I'm in a bread coma! ~Chels

Something for Momma

On Saturday afternoon, baby girl was fast asleep. Dinner was in the oven. Hubs was working on something outside. And I was enjoying the quiet time. There's not much of that around here. So you really enjoy those few precious moments.

And I thought, why not make something. I took a look in that folder. I tell you, my hubby just laughs at this folder on my laptop. Full of all sorts of projects. And I saw this bracelet. Perfect I thought! It's definitely turning to Fall around here. Not necessarily jacket weather. But we don't have to have the AC on, 24/7!! That's ALWAYS something to be happy about. :)

With Fall in the air, I want to start bringing out my boots, scarves, and stuff like that. To me, this bracelet falls into that category. Way back when I was still pregnant. Like in the Spring, I went on a bit of a craft supplies, shopping spree. Buying lots and lots of supplies. For all these projects I was going to work. Not everything got done. This is one of those projects....

I managed to make 3. But not before hubs came inside. And saw me twisting wire around a jar. To which, he asked if I was making Slinkys now. Funny man!! But before you wrap the bracelets, they do sorta look like a Slinky. Just more stable.

Honestly, this was a nice project to work on. Not too hard. A little mindless wrapping of supplies. And now, I have a fun bracelet. That I won't mind, if it gets dirty. Or baby spit all over. :)Now I'm thinking about those things. What would be OK, to wear, with my sweet baby girl. Oh, she just rocks my world! ~Chels

Topsy Gardening Pots

Do you remember when I blogged about some gardening ideas? There was 1 project on there, that I really wanted to make. Those topsy looking pots. I REALLY wanted to make them! That post was written back in February. It's now August!!

I'm the size of the moon! Weeks away from meeting our baby girl. And those pots are still on my mind! I'd been telling my mom-in-law about them. And when my in-laws came into town for our Baby Shower, they bought us all the supplies. And showed us this tutorial. :)

Well, for the last few weeks, everything has been sitting in our garage. We had meant, to get busy a few weekends ago. Actually, right after my in-laws bought the supplies, our mommas got busy painting. We have 20+ pots that are painted and ready! They had offered to make us these little guys, while they were here. But we wanted to spend time together. Enjoying the fact, that our family was here.

Here we are. Weeks away from meeting our daughter. In the crazy August heat! I'm the size of the moon. And all of a sudden, I need to finish 100 projects!! Crazy....even I know this! But I went shopping today. With a friend. And picked up a bunch of flowers, and some herbs. I figured now that we've made a little financial investment in the project, there is no putting it off!

My hubs agreed. Tomorrow, we're working on these cuties. As soon as we get home from the Farmers' Markey. I know! But this momma is in desperate need of fresh bread, produce, and plenty of Kettle Korn! Maybe even a fresh lemonade. :) ~Chels

Inspired

I think I've said it more than once, I'm not crafty. But I try. I'm always inspired by people's ideas. Especially when I sit and go through Pinterest, for hours and hours. That site is just so darn addicting!! So is Lola's blog! Either she's making something, or blogging about something she wants to make. That's where I seen this picture....

And now, I feel like our door NEEDS a wreath just like this! So much so, I wobbled to Hobby Lobby. Picked up some fun polka dot material. And some felt. And lace. Oh, and the wreath form. Now I'm going to sit under the AC, and try to make some crafty miracles happen. If all goes well, we should have a wreath. Hopefully by tomorrow! ~Chels

Making Some Crafty Memories :)

I have a secret to tell you. And you can't tell anyone! But my hubs and I, did a little crafting last night. It was such a HOT night. And I was looking through this folder of projects, that I want to get done, before our daughter is here. Let me tell you, it's HUGE!! With just over a month, I'm not sure everything is going to get done.

But we're not going to focus on that! What we're going to talk about is this. I was looking for something to work on. It's been so HOT outside. But we decided to turn on the sprinklers. Water the grass, and just enjoy the evening. Outside. As much as we could.

Well, hubs shocked me!! He brought out this bag of mine. It's been sitting in the garage for almost a month! With the supplies to make these bracelets. Yes, I said a month!! But you see, I wanted to ask my doctor, if I could use spray paint while pregnant. She told me, that she'd prefer me not to. But that I could work with these pens, outside. ONLY outside!!

That wasn't very good news for me. There are a few projects that I want to work on. But I need to use spray paint. So I've just been putting them off. I don't want to bother my hubs with painting bracelets, flower pots, letters, that weird looking bookshelf, etc. To my surprise, he actually wants to do all these things. Without me asking him!!

My hubs went to the side of the house, and painted a bunch of bracelets for me. A BUNCH!! I might have gone overboard buying them. But I found them on sale....for 25 cents a piece!! :) When they were dry, he brought them to me. Where our dogs and I, were enjoying the relaxing evening. They were eating some treats. I was having some fruit, and reading a magazine.

Hubs and I, spent the next 2 hours, writing on my bracelets. Well, I wrote on them. My hubs drew some fun pictures. When we went inside, hubs stayed in the garage for a few more minutes. Sealing the bracelets. I don't know the name of the stuff he used. But it's clear.

That's what my hubs and I did last night! And it was such a nice evening. Whenever I look at my precious bracelets, I'll remember this night. The wonderful memories that we made. And just how precious my husband is. Because who else can say, they spent the night making bracelets with their husband? And really enjoying it. I have to be the luckiest woman on earth. Because he LOVES me, with all HIS HEART!! Luv you too Suga' Boots!! ~Chels

Taco Tuesdays in a Crock Pot!!

I can't lie. Around here, "Taco Tuesdays" are a MUST!! I tell you, don't mess with our Tuesdays. When my hubby and I first met, we were poor college kids. Man, money was so incredibly tight! Most of the time, we'd hangout at the 4H house. Because everyone would just bring a few things, and we'd cook up a meal.

But on Tuesdays, it was "Taco Tuesday." We'd sometimes splurge, and go to our favorite Mexican restaurant. But most of the time, we'd go to Taco Bell. Get us a few cheapo tacos, and sit and talk. Some days, we'd head to the local park. Other times, we'd head to one of our houses, and catch up on our favorite shows. And when one of us was pulling an "All Nighter" at the library, the other would bring dinner. :)

When we got married and moved in together, not much changed. Other than, it's been a heck of a long time, since we went to Taco Bell! Now hubby has a better job. But we're still a 1 income family. Cooking is not just something I should do....it's almost necessity. To cut down on costs. And I'm totally cool with that. It's my way, to provide for my hubby. Since he works so darn hard!

I've been pretty good. We still eat our tacos every Tuesday. It's that one thing, that makes both my hubs and I, very happy!! Almost 90% of the time, we have ground beef tacos. I'm just not too skilled in cooking. Once in a while, we'll have leftover roast. I'll shred it, and cook it up with onions, peppers, and jalapenos. And if I'm being really lazy, I'll pick up a rotisserie chicken. I shred it up. And those tacos, usually get more "fancy" toppings than the rest. :)

But I feel like I'm in a rut! I want to keep our "Taco Tuesdays" going. But I wanted something a little different. And honestly, I haven't been wanting to cook much. I know I say this a lot, but it is so HOT here!! Living in the desert, sorta sucks the life out of you at times.

Well, you know what? Good friends are awesome! And not long ago, Rach blogged about this blog. She was working on a craft, for her boys. And had tried out some recipes. I thought, that this recipe sounded good. And super easy! Heck, Rach has 3 kids. Under 3!! And Mike is away, fighting that fire. If she can make these, so can I!

Life changing folks! So good!! I almost NEVER use my crock pot. I just don't know what to cook in there. And it takes up so much space. That it spends 98% of the time, tucked away under our kitchen sink. I know. Weird huh? But my hubs refuses to put cleaning supplies under there. Like most people. We've never had anything under there, except all the appliances, that we rarely use.

Thanks Rach! For sharing this blog with me. And helping me find this recipe. Something tells me, these are going to be regulars in our meals. They're easy, cheap, and so tasty! Heck ya! Things that we have on hand, all the time, chicken breasts and salsa. This is what we ate on Tuesday night. With fresh corn tortillas.You have to LOVE the local Mexican bakeries. :) Try this out! You won't regret it. Plus, clean up was super easy!! That's always a bonus in my book. ~Chels

Berry Fun

I don't know if I ever shared this on my blog. But the first summer that we lived here, we planted a bunch of berry bushes. Blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, etc. Yum! And every year, we've crossed our fingers. That the snow doesn't kill them. And neither does the heat. But we don't get fruit. Lots of pretty green leaves. But no fruit!! I'm starting to wonder about those little guys! We planted them, because we LOVE fruit that much. But we're still waiting on our first harvest....

But like I said, we LOVE fruit. Especially berries! And I've been dreaming of eating bowls and bowls, of fresh berries. One day. Fingers crossed. Instead, we took a drive yesterday. To the "local berry patch." By local, I mean 2 and a half hours away!!

But you know what? It was totally worth it!! Baskets, buckets, and what not later....I was one happy lady!! I had so many berries. And I've happily sat here, taking in as many as I can. Isn't that part of the Summer fun? Fresh and yummy berries. Maybe next year, our little plants will give us some berries.... ~Chels

Fruit Fun!!

I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July! We had so much fun! We had a bunch of friends over. And then, late in the evening, we headed over to J's house. For a little swimming and fireworks. :)

J had told a bunch of friends, that he was going to have fireworks. So we all planned on it. And I wanted to make some yummy treats. It was totally last minute. Since hubby came home Tuesday, with the news. :) But I knew, there just had to be something out there, that I could make.

Oh yes! Made It. Ate. Loved It. didn't disappoint! I'd seen these fruit pizzas a while back. And really wanted to make them. They look and sound so delicious!!

I was on a bit of a time crunch. Not going to lie! So skipped making the cookies. I actually used the mix in a pouch. You just add water. :) But I made all the rest. And these sweet treats were so good! I need to make them again. And soon! But this time, I'm going to follow this recipe. All of it! Who knows, I might just gain 10 lbs this week!! ~Chels

Can't Wait!!

My hubs and I decided to have some friends over. For the 4th of July. Which means I need to figure out something to cook. Oh my! I've been hunting down some good recipes. I thought maybe some kabobs would be good. But when I started thinking about that, it's a lot of cutting! My expanding pregnant belly and I, figured we'd like a much simpler route. Maybe for baby girl's 1st birthday...we'll do kabobs. :)

I kept hunting. And hunting. Hubs wanted to do burgers and hotdogs. But I wanted something much easier. I didn't want for my hubs, to have to be at the grill all day! Who wants to cook that much, when you have company over? Not me! That's when I found this recipe!!

Yes, it all sounds AMAZING!! The oven does most of the work. Oh, and I did buy the bagged coleslaw mix. 3 bags! Our fridge is now full of pretty ribs....waiting to be cooked. :) Pretty much, I just need to make the dressing for the coleslaw...and the sauce for the ribs.

Easy peasy. No? We also bought lots of fruit! Some hotdogs for the kids. And a few friends are bringing a salad or dessert. Man, I'm getting excited for Wednesday! Who's with me? Oh, and you have to check out this cooking blog. AMAZING recipes my friends!! ~Chels

New Favorite Meal

It's been H-O-T!! I've been getting fatter. I know I'm pregnant. But what never crossed my mind was, that I'd be this pregnant, during the HOTTEST time of year! Oh. My. GOODNESS!! I'd tell you to come and murder me. But really, that wouldn't solve much....

With all this heat, and expanding belly, I'm not doing much. Can't lie! From about 2pm on, I just want to lay down, turn up the AC, and nap!! I have absolutely no appetite whatsoever!! But I'm forcing myself to eat. For the sake of my daughter.

When I do eat, or cook, I want it to be easy. Simple. Light. Nothing complex. Nothing that is going to keep me in the kitchen all day. Or that is going to have me doing dishes all night. That's why I'm so happy, that Ashley posted this recipe!!

I've essentially taken the idea, and made similar pasta dishes, 2 or 3 times a week. All month long! We're talking, any veggies I can find in the fridge, are quickly sauteed. Then angel hair pasta is added. Then we eat. Some nights, I sprinkle some cheese on top. Other nights, hubs will grill up some chicken to go with our pasta. He eats it, I don't. One night, he even made us some fish. That was yummy!

I can say this much, I'm having a hard time with protein at the moment. Mornings all together are still tough. Food wise. But I can manage some eggs, and light protein. After that, it's a struggle for me to eat protein. I know it's important. But I just can't deal. So I try to eat peanut butter or beans for lunch. But this idea, is really good. Lots of veggies=lots of good vitamins!! ~Chels

Brilliant Idea!!

I'm trying to find things to keep me occupied. Inside. Preferably! I almost past out, Friday when I went grocery shopping. I walked from a close parking, right inside. At 10am! And thought I was just going to pass out. This heat, is really starting to get to me. And I'm coming to terms with, I MUST stay inside....during the "peak" heat hours. Ugh!

Like I said, I'm looking for things to keep me busy. Inside. If you have any ideas, please leave me a note! I'm going a little crazy here! But I've been looking for ideas, to make things. For our nursery. For our yard. Things like that. And I found something fun on Pinterest!!

Isn't it brilliant? A hula hoop chandelier!! Honestly, I've got plenty of Christmas lights. Hubs went a little crazy buying them up this past Christmas. Apparently, I just need some paint, lace, fabric, things like this. And a hula hoop! How fun! I'd actually like to make one of these. Maybe 3, for our back porch. But I'd prefer to hang ours with rope. What do you think?

Is this something that you'd try? Or that you even like? I'm I going nuts? I hope not. Because I think this would be so fun!! Especially under the summer sky. Just a little bit of twinkle, to make every night, extra special!! ~Chels

You'll NEVER Believe....

You'll NEVER believe what I've been up to today! NEVER!! Cleaning out old jars. You see, in our fridge, we have an entire door, of jars. Of jelly, salsa, dip, honey, sauces, etc. All these jars have nothing in them. They are essentially empty. But in the fridge.

I don't know what our problem is. Why we can't throw these jars out. Why we feel it's important to have an extra large jar of pickle juice, taking up all that room. But today, I got to it. I was pulling out jar after jar, after jar!! Why we feel like a jar with no jam should go back in the fridge....is just beyond me! I had like 30 jars on the counter....

I thought, I could make something with these. Then I stopped myself. Why would I do that? We can recycle them. Either way, I'd have to wash them. Peel labels off. And if I decided to recycle the jars, I'd have to get my hubs to drive them to the recycling place. Since we're not allowed to stick them in our recycling cans.

Well, about half through my washing, I just thought, my hubs will never agree to drive all these across town. Maybe I should make something. I swear to you, if anyone would have come over, they would have thought, this woman has lost her mind!! Talking to herself. With all these empty jars!

I took a break. While half the jars were drying. And I got on my laptop. I searched out easy crafts. To use up some of these jars. And you'll never believe what I stumbled on! This cute little picture. That lead to this post. :)

I think this would be such a fun idea! I've got so many jars. I could make of bunch of these. And put them around our porch, with flowers and candles. Brilliant. Now I just need to finish getting the writing and glue off, some of the jars. If you're wondering about that. Simple rubbing alcohol is taking it off, really easy!

Then I have to decide on some sort of color scheme. What do you recommend? I'd LOVE to hear your ideas. Or any other ideas, you might have. I'm telling you, we have like 40 or 50 jars in total. Maybe more. I'm totally embarrassed about this little fact....

On the other hand, I can finally stock the fridge again. You know with jam, cherries, pickles, etc. All of a sudden, our fridge looks so empty! But honestly, all the food is in the pantry. Just waiting to go in the fridge. :) ~Chels

I Surprised Him!!

My hubby totally surprised me for Mother's Day. I wasn't expecting anything. For real!! Because I'm pregnant. I know that I feel like a momma. But I'm not really a momma yet. Anyway, my hubs totally surprised me. And completely spoiled me on Mother's Day. I knew immediately, that I wanted to do the same for my love. :)

Weeks ago, I started thinking of what I could do. And I started planning. Ultimately, we went on a long drive to the mountains. Were I surprised my hubby with a new fishing pole, and a new tackle box. Jammed with all kinds of fishing stuff. We spent the day in the mountains. He fished. I enjoyed the quiet time. It's so great to connect with nature. Oh, and I cooked us up a big 'ol picnic lunch! We did end up, stopping at the cutest steakhouse, in the mountains. For dinner, on the way home!

But I know I surprised my hubby. First, that I was able to plan, and pull off the entire day! Second, because I cooked. And it was darn good. Most of what I made, were my hubby's favorite foods. I called my MIL weeks ago, and begged her to help me. Which wasn't a tough thing to do. She was happy to help!! :)

The one thing that I totally did on my own, was I made these ginormous cinnamon buns. For breakfast! I'd seen this recipe, months ago. And I'd been wanting to try it. But to me, it seemed like a "fancy recipe." Something you make on a "Special Day."

I'm pretty sure, that my hubby wondered why I crawled out of bed...at midnight. But I whispered to him, that I was having trouble sleeping. Lately, that has been true. It's just hard for me to sleep now. I'm guessing that it's due to my expanding baby belly. But I told him to go back to bed. I quickly made my way to the kitchen. And started these sweet treats. Knowing that they needed some time, to "do their thang!"

Then I went back to bed. On Friday, I'd prepped all the other food. Things were good to go. And I got up, extra early, on Sunday morning. I put the cinnamon rolls into the oven. With our main course. And headed back to bed. My hubby actually slept through all of this. I was shocked! After 15 minutes, I got out of bed. Pulled out our yummy goodness!! And grabbed my hubby's card.

He was shocked! I'm not sure if he was more shocked that I was celebrating him on Father's Day. Or that I had baked a batch of these sweets. And they were so good! I swear to you, 1 roll, was bigger than my hand!! OMG!!

After our sugary breakfast, we got ready for the day. Headed out to church. Then hit the road. It was a really WONDERFUL day! And I hope that we can turn this into a family tradition. Next year, having our baby girl with us! And these little guys, are going to be a regular for all our "Special Mornings!" ~Chels

Green Space

We're having a "hotter than usual" summer. That is saying a lot for the desert. You know what I mean? And it's only June! It doesn't help that I'm pregnant. Or that all I want to do, is make our yard, a green oasis. Just like Cari's yard. Oh, it's gorgeous!!

I want a green place, to relax in. To get away from all of this heat!! Something that's beautiful and inviting. I took to Pinterest for a little inspiration. And I just can't get over this space!!

That vertical box thing, just makes me smile! All these beautiful potted plants, make me happy! This whole space is so fresh. So green! I want a space like this!! Maybe add in a little water fountain, some comfy seating, and some good shade. Yes, we NEED a space just like this!! ~Chels

Tastes Like Summer!!

Let me just say 3 things. One, my sweet tooth is so intense right now. Two, I blame it all on my pregnancy. And three, I've made these sweet treats 5 times, since Shay posted the recipe. Just over a week ago!

I know, right? It's insane!! But I keep craving sweet treats. This one is sweet, has ice cream, oh and it tastes like summer! My grandma used to say that a lot, when I was little. When something just reminded you so much of summer...."It tastes just like Summer!"

Come on! This cookie has it all! Ice cream, strawberry, pineapple. coconut. And it's super easy to make. Run to the recipe....and don't blame me when you've gained 10 lbs. It's Shay's fault. I'm just passing along the great news!! ~Chels

For My Lova'

This week, my hubby and I celebrate 4 years of wedded bliss! On Thursday to be exact! Man, time does fly by! Now, we're just months away, from becoming parents. It's just crazy, how fast life moves.

Back to our anniversary. I wanted to do something special for my Lova'. Ya know, he's been so wonderful, during our pregnancy. Actually, he is wonderful all the time! That's why I married him. Ladies, I wasn't that crazy! I knew, this man was special. :)

I want to do something extra special. Take into account, it's like a million degrees here! We have had horrible smoke, from a fire that's a couple hours from us. Outside stuff, just ain't gonna happen. :( And here I had had my hopes on a starlight picnic. Maybe next year! Instead, I figured I'd make my hubs a special dinner. Inside. With the AC blasting!

And like any normal pregnant woman, when I think of food....I think of desserts!! I know, I shouldn't. But it's all I crave these days. And then I remembered. Those "no bake" cheesecakes. In a flippin' jar! Dang it, they look so good.

So I hauled my pregnant self down to Wally World. This morning. In nearly 100 degree weather....at 10AM. Ugh....the "Dog Days of Summer" are here!! I must have spent, 2 hours looking for those cute little jars. Then I gave up. My feet were getting all swollen. My belly was rumbling. Baby girl and momma were hungry. I bought my ingredients. Then hopped over to Subway. :)

One, I can't find any cute jars. To me, they make this dessert. I'll keep hunting. I've got a couple of days. Two, what the heck else am I going to serve? Honky Tonk Husband likes to eat. And until about 20 minutes ago, I hadn't realized, I don't have a menu planned! I need to get on that! ASAP!!

On a good note, I got my hubby's present. And it's all wrapped up! Yay for me! That rarely happens this early in the game. Maybe pregnancy is getting me more "on the ball." Do you have any dinner suggestions? Or plans. Any ideas? I'd LOVE to hear them! My hubby really is a special guy. And I want to show him on our special day! ~Chels

Starting My Search....

Goodness! It has been so HOT around. Like all of a sudden, someone turned up the thermostat! No lie!! Just a few days, I was in HEAVEN with the weather. Now, I don't want to leave the house! But we're getting a cold front...and should be back in the 90s through next week. :) And that makes me want to spend more and more time outside. You see, the Honky Tonky Husband and I, are investing a little money. In some good outdoor furniture.

We actually spent the better part of one entire day, looking at outdoor furniture. With no luck! We just didn't find anything we LOVED!! And if you know anything about outdoor furniture, well it's a good investment. You just don't want to buy something, for the sake of buying it. Only to find out, a month later....you really can't stand it.

We decided to put that shopping on the back burner. For another week. When there are less people at the stores. And I've done a little more research. I took to Pinterest. For a little inspiration. And I found this cute little picture. Oh my!!

A. Don't ya just LOVE this? B. This just screams summer to me. C. The colors are so fun! D. It looks like a combination, of a lot of different stuff. Not one of those sets you buy at Lowe's or HD. I'm just sayin'.

I just don't think my hubby will go for such girly colors. Not even with baby girl on the way. Nope! But I think if we can find a comfy looking bed like that, and a decent set of furniture, we can do this. Just paint everything white.

Love the pink! But I'm thinking, if we can work with yellow, turquoise, and lime green...this could be fun. And my hubby would love it too! Now I just need to start searching. I can't wait to have it done. What do you think? I'm I nuts? Or is this a good idea? ~Chels

Easy Peasy!!

I took to P.S.-I Made This again. :) And I found a really fun and easy project. For a Sequin Bracelet!! Yes, I just said a sequin bracelet. The idea is pretty genius if you ask me. And this is such an inexpensive project!!

Sometimes, I make things a little harder on myself, than they need to be. Like I had a few of these supplies on hand. Why? I have no clue!! Maybe something left over from a college project? Who knows! But I had 2 packages of sequins. They were packs of multicolored, different sized sequins. But I thought I could use them. :)

Can you guess where this is going? Well, it's taken me 3 hours....this far! To just separate all the sequins. Ugh! But I think it will make for a nicer looking bracelet. I had a bracelet that broke a year or 2 ago. At the time, I bought some of that beading elastic. To fix my bracelet. And never used it. Another thing I had on hand.

Like I said, I had a bracelet that had broken. I never found all the beads. So I had a handful left, sitting in my jewelry box. Because I had pretty much everything, I didn't head to the store. So I don't have a needle. It's taken a while to make these, but I've almost got 2 bracelets made. They are so easy to make. It would probably go a lot faster, if I had that needle....

Well, if you just go out and buy the supplies, I'd say, you'd have your bracelets made in no time! They are so fun. And I LOVE that they look much more expensive, than they are. Between, don't you just adore the gold bracelets in the picture. I wonder where those are from. If you know, please let me know! ~Chels

Beat the Heat with a Headband

Do you remember me telling you about P.S.-I Made This? I've been working on some of the projects. What I like about this site is, all the projects are very easy to make. And they're pretty easy on your checkbook. Do you know what I mean?

Honestly, most of the projects, on this site are simple. I've been using lots of things, that I find around the house. You should know this about me, I'm not crafty. I don't have lots of craft supplies. Heck, I've been using most of my hubby's things, to make my little crafts. That's why I LOVE this site!!

One of the crafts I was most excited about, was this Braided Headband. You see, in the desert heat, my hair is usually up in a messy ponytail, or bun. I figured, a few of these fun headbands, would be a nice change of pace. Something to "spice" up my 'do!

The site recommends using leather, some ball chain, and a shoelace. Me? I had cheapo purse, that had gotten a hole in it. Something that can't be fixed. I took my scissors to it. Then I got an old chain. Am I the only one that does this? I buy a necklace. Then I realize the chain isn't long enough. So I buy a long chain. Now I have a bunch of chains that aren't being used. Cheapo ones. Like from Wally World jewelry. :)

Literally, I went around my house. Hunting down supplies. Ribbons, old shirts, whatever could be braided. And I've been braiding away. I've got 4 headbands made. Super easy! It's taken me longer, to find the supplies, than to make the headbands. This would be a fun craft project to work on, with little girls. Anyone that can braid, can make one of these headbands. So fun! ~Chels

Made Me Smile!!

What a cute picture! What a cute little girl! Oh, it makes my heart burst with love! I just can't wait, to have my own daughter, in my arms. I can't wait to do things like this, with my little girl. :)

I was having a bit of a bad day. But when I logged onto Pinterest, and saw this picture, I just had to smile! And my little girl, decided to give her momma a little "here I am" movement. That reminded me, what is really important. ~Chels

Thin Mint Heaven!!

Every year, I count something down. Something that you won't expect. Girl Scout cookie time! And let me tell you, it's tough to find those little guys. Around here anyway! We must not have a troop around here. I'm not sure. But without fail, my hubby brings home 10 boxes. Every year. Bless my Lova'!!

Right now, those sweet delight, are long gone. I'm a little ashamed to admit, that hubs only got 3 cookies. 3 cookies people!! I ate the rest. Me and baby girl. :) And they were darn good! But I got real sad, when I found this recipe last night. Oh. My. Goodness! What am I going to do now??

Well, nothing gets by the man I love. We're completely out of thin mints. Hubs took to hunting out something similar today. Didn't even know he was going to the grocery store. I would have asked him to pick up some ice cream. And maybe some bagels with cream cheese. :) Can you tell what I'm craving?

Hubs did find a yummy cookie. I think they're made by Keebler. I'm not even positive. And a little too lazy to go look right now. But as we speak, I've got a batch of these in the oven. And our home smells AMAZING!! I can't wait to try them out.

On a side note, hubs bought 3 packages of those cookies. And I've already eaten 6 cookies! It's bad. And the Andres mint chips....from the baking aisle....are so good! Darn Lola!! You got me hooked on eating them, with vanilla ice cream. And by themselves. :) Can you tell that I like chocolate and mint? ~Chels

Which Do We Start On??

Tomorrow we find out, whether our Honky Tonk Baby is a boy or girl. I'm so excited!! And so nervous! This pregnancy just seems to be flying by! Here we are, already going to find out if we're going to have a son or a daughter....

It just got me thinking, how real this now feels. Tomorrow, we're halfway! And in 20 very short weeks, we'll be bringing our baby home. Hubs and I, just want a healthy baby. Monday night, after dinner, we both wrote down whether we thought we were having a boy or a girl. We both wrote the same answer! I guess tomorrow, we'll see if we were right.

Because I'm feeling so anxious, I've been searching through Pinterest. I found 2 boy projects, and 2 girl projects. Darn, I'm just so excited to know!! Do you know, we really haven't bought much for Honky Tonk Baby. Sad but true. Mostly because what do you buy? You know, until you know if you're having a boy or a girl.

We've picked up a few packs of white onesies. That I want to try and dye. But I haven't bought dye yet. We've bought our breast pump. And a few blankets. My hubs came home one day, with a stack of books. And some stuffed animals. That's it! We really need to find out whether we're going to be having a boy or a girl....

Remember those projects I was telling you about? Here they are. Hubs is taking some good notes. Even making out some lists. I'm 100% positive, that after our doctor's appointment tomorrow, we'll be heading to the store. Hopefully Target. But I'm sure, hubs will have his lists in hand. Wanting to head to Lowes or HD. :)

What do you think of this little tool bench? Incredible! Just like Daddy's! We even spotted the cutest set of Craftsman tools at K-Mart!! So adorable!!

How about a Firehouse? This would be adorable! Being that the firefighters run by our house, every morning. If we have a son, I'm sure he'll just adore that! Better yet, this is made our of a bookcase!!

This is what started my little search. :) You know that little space under your stairs. The one that no one knows what to do with. Well, turn it into a little playhouse!! LOVE the door! All I've got to say is....my hubby is in serious trouble....if our baby is a girl!!

And no playroom is complete, for a little girl, without her very own kitchen! Shut your mouth!! Isn't this just darling? Wow! I don't even know where to begin....

There you go. This pregnant lady, is ready to find out if her baby is a boy or a girl. I'm also ready to do some shopping. And put our baby's nursery together. I'm sure that Honky Tonk Baby's Godmother, and Godfather are anxious too! How in the world, am I going to get through the next 24 hours?? ~Chels

Our Easter Treats :)

How was your Easter? Ours was nice. Actually, it was just what we needed!! It was totally "low key." My hubby and I went to church. And then had a fun afternoon with friends. It was so nice to see Lola again! Glad she came out for a few days.

And because Lola and her man hosted Easter, no one had to worry about cooking. Lola is the best cook I know! Sorry to my momma and MIL, but it's the truth! I still wanted to make a little something. So I took to my new favorite blog. And made a triple batch of these sweet treats!! Which were gobbled up in record time!! :)

Oh, yes. They were delicious!! Not only were these Rice Krispies treats delicious. But they were fun. Last week, while buying some groceries, I found some Easter Sprinkles. And that's what I used. So fun! The kids really enjoyed them. Most of all, we just enjoyed the good times, with our dear friends. When you live so far away from family, good friends are so important! Not only did God give us his son. But he's blessed us, with some AMAZING friends! ~Chels

What the Peep??

O-M-G!! I saw this picture on Pinterest, and it made my heart just stop! Peeps and smores? It can't get any better!!

Oh yes it can! We made a quick stop at Albertsons on the way home from church. Bought our supplies. And recreated this happy little treat. Thank you Pinterest!! You made our Thursday night, so much happier, than we could have ever planned! ~Chels

GREAT Idea!!

I've been hanging out on Pinterest. It's seems like, that's all I do now. But the fact of the matter is, my nausea is so bad, I really can't do much else. I read blogs. And search through Pinterest. I force a meal down, 3 times a day. And I feel like death! My dear friend insists, that means I'm having a girl!!

While hanging out on Pinterest, I've been looking for nursery ideas. I know we're still 10 days away from finding out if we're having a boy or a girl. But we need to start getting some ideas. I've seen tons and tons of beautiful nurseries. But this one, just caught my eye!!

I personally LOVE these colors. The navy is so rich and gorgeous! The white is just the perfect lightness for a nursery. And that orange....it's so fun! I think this would be perfect for a boy's nursery. Although, I'm almost 100% positive, that this is a girl's nursery. I think this would also be great for a girl. But I'd use a bright pink! How fun!! Who knows, we might just be going this route, in a few short weeks! ~Chels

Life Changing...and Sweet and Sour Chicken!!

This is blog post, that we've all been waiting for. The one when I tell you, I'm really enjoying cooking. Oh, and I found a blog that will change your life! Because it's got the most AMAZING and DELICIOUS recipes around!! Go immediately here, and follow Made It. Ate It. Loved It.

Back to the post. Around here, we enjoy oriental food. Probably a little too much! But in this small town, there's not really a place to go. And you know, get good food. There is a place, on the college campus. But it's only open Monday-Friday, from August-May, from 11am-2pm. Not really making for the easiest place to dine. If you know what I mean....

Other than that, you can drive an hour away, end enjoy PF Changs. But for us, that's just not going to happen. It's like a once every 6 months, kind of thing. We do have a local place. But the only thing that is good, is the beef and broccoli. Oh, and the prices!! But we crave sweet and sour chicken, lo mein noodles, and good egg rolls.

When we dive up north, like once a year, we also eat at Panda Express. Like 5 times, in 2 days!! I know, we're crazy. But I so wish, that we had a Panda Express near us. The closest one, is 3 hours away! Can you see why, I need to learn how to cook? And why this blog, is making me so excited.

Well, not only have I found good egg rolls, at Costco! I can't remember the brand, but they're in the freezer section. Oh, and I've seen small packages at Wally World. But you pay less, if you buy the big box. Then I found this good lo mein recipe. I know! The stars were lining up. Lastly, I found this recipe for sweet and sour chicken!!

Can you tell what we're having for dinner? Um, hello! Look at this picture!! I just have to make this. I've already been to Albertsons twice. And it's not even lunchtime. Can I make it to dinner? Oh, the Honky Tonk Hubby is going to be so excited!! ~Chels

Earring Making....

We are invited to a few weddings this summer. Oh, only 5! And I don't want to go out and buy 5 separate outfits. Especially fancy maternity clothes. It just seems like a waste of money. If I wasn't pregnant, than I might feel differently. But that's still a lot of dressy clothes....

Being that most of the people going to all these weddings....are the same people, I need to change things up!! I've decided on 3 dresses. That should cover me for the weddings, a few Bridal Showers, and a few Baby Showers. :) It's going to be a busy summer for our friends!!

But I figured I could have fun with my accessories. Heck, I thought, I could even make a few things. First, I bought some really inexpensive shoes. 3 identical pair, brand new, for a total of $15! I glittered a fun pair....for a really fun wedding! Not too hard. Spray glue, lots of glitter, than my hubs sealed them....with some sort of clear spray. Fun, easy, and inexpensive!

I've also been making trips to Hobby Lobby. Pretty regularly. Using lots and lots of 40% coupons. I've made a bracelet, a necklace, and a fun hair accessory. See were I'm going here? I've been trying to make some fun stuff, to liven up my "fancy" outfits.

Then I took to Pinterest. And found this fun picture. Unlike most "Pins" on Pinterest, this one had a link. That worked. And took me to this website. Where I fell in LOVE!!! Hello!!! P.S.-I Made This....I LOVE YOU!!

I really liked the look of these earrings. I know, they're totally over the top! But for one wedding that we're going to, they're perfect! I just so happened to have some rose earrings. Very similar to these. Our local 99 cent store recently went out of business....and for no good reason at all, I stocked up on their flower earrings. :) I don't know when I'll use 30 pairs....but for $2.50 I couldn't leave them behind. :)

I also had a rhinestone necklace, that had broke. It sat in my jewelry box....for 6 years. Well, I dug it out. It's very similar to the trim in the picture. I also dug through my hubby's tackle box. And I found some new fishing string. And Krazy Glue! Score. All I had to do, was find the bottom rhinestone things. I actually just went to Wally World. And found some beautiful rhinestone buttons. I think I got 2 buttons for $3. Not bad!

This is what I'm working on right now. I've actually got a few other projects from P.S.-I Made This. I can't wait to share them with you! But you should definitely take a look around this website. I'm so glad that Pinterest lead me there. :) ~Chels

Very Fun!!

I've been searching out some good maternity pictures. I NEED ideas people! Fun ones! Preferably....were I'm not showing any real skin. I know, I know! But seriously. So I've been going through good 'ol Pinterest. And this picture in particular, made me smile. :)

What do you think? I would like some other ideas. Please leave me a note. Send me a picture. Post a link. Anything! I'd love to see more ideas. We really want some fun pictures. That our a little different. To document our baby. ~Chels

Colorful Fun!!

Some things just make the world, a very happy place. You know, like walking through Hobby Lobby. I know, it's just February. But I walked through all the aisles in Hobby Lobby. And I spent an extra long time, in the "Summer" aisles.

There were so many colorful things! Pinwheels for you yard. A heck of a lot of garden stuff. But also, lots of fun summer stuff. Like kitchen utensils. In all these fun and bright colors. It totally didn't help that everything in that section, was 40% off this week. I wanted it all! Including this cool cutting board. That has a fold out bowl attached. To put your peelings and stuff. Really cool! Well, I walked out with nothing....

But I still had all this on my mind. When I got home, we had this catalogue in the mail too! For the love of mankind, I couldn't help myself. I sat down, and looked through the whole thing. Filled with kitchen gadgets, tools, and essentials. We're talking pots and pans, towels, and decor. In the best colors ever!! Including some fun spoons. Wooden spoons. With fun colored, painted handles.

When my hubby came home, I was going to show them to him. Being that I had been so good all day. All day people! I didn't buy a thing we didn't need. And I paid all our bills. :) But I couldn't find that catalogue anywhere. :(

My hubby decided over the weekend, that we should go back to Hobby Lobby. Pick up a few things. Being that everything was on sale again. It's the 3rd week in a row, that these things were on sale! This time, I couldn't bring myself to spending the money. I know! I'm a fool. But we're saving up for a really good cause....our baby's nursery.

And honestly, in the back of my mind, I was still thinking about those spoons. I'm almost 100% positive, that they were 6 spoons for $20. Kinda a lot. But totally worth it! And I didn't want to blow money, on something that I wasn't 100% sure of. Yes, I liked the brightly colored spatulas, whisks, and gadgets. But even with the discount, they were $5 a piece. Oh, and then how would I decide on a color, or which to buy. We left....empty handed.

Then we crossed the road, and did our grocery shopping. Totally on the wrong day. At the wrong store. Wally World on a Saturday....is a MAJOR SIN!! Especially in this college town. Hobby Lobby's lines had been insane! This was ridiculous! At one point, 2 hours into shopping, 90 minutes in line....my hubby wondered away. He actually snuck to the McD's in the back. To get us a little snack. And on his way back to the front, he saw a package of wooden spoons. Hanging on the side of an aisle. And because I had shown my hubby, this picture earlier in the week, he brought them to me. :)

I left hubby with the his fries and ice cream, and our grocery cart. Still in line. And I made a beeline for the small craft department. How can you call 1 and 1/2 aisles, a "Craft Department?" Anyway, I picked up a few different colors of paint. And some sponge brushes.

Long story short, I spent my Saturday night, painting. I ended up using this picture as a good inspiration. And I'm happy that we still had some painters tape, in the closet. It helped make my handles straight. A few coats of paint later, we have some fun cooking utensils. Now I'll be on the lookout for more wooden utensils. Thank you Hobby Lobby and Pinterest for my new, colorful, and fun kitchen accessories! ~Chels

Indoor Tent

Fun in a tent! Who doesn't enjoy a tent? I know I do! It's probably, one of the only reasons I enjoy camping. Fun in a tent....can happen at all ages!! So when I was strolling around on Pinterest, and came across this....I was so excited!!

First of all, yes our baby NEEDS one of these tents! How much fun would this be? A little place to hide out in. Lots of time for fun playing, and reading. Imagine all the memories you could make. :)

Oh, and until baby is big enough....this momma and daddy, can have a little fun in there too! Because honestly, a tent is good for any age! Now where is my hubby? Wouldn't this be fun for Valentine's Day? ~Chels

Can We Say Fun??

Some ideas just make you smile. From ear to ear. With no explanation! You just smile. And walk on air. That's how I felt, when I seen this cute idea!

Oh Pinterest, how I LOVE you!! I just think this idea is genius. At least for us! Because out here, the weather is wild! For the last few winters, we've had an insane amount of snowfall!! Then we have a ridiculous amount of heat, in the summer. Say 40+ days of triple digits!! And the heat, is just unbearable between May and September.

This idea is just genius! I'm going to save it. In the back of my brain. And on this blog. So when our Honky Tonk Babe is about a year and a half, I'll start bugging my Honky Tonk Hubby. You know, to build us something like this! That way, we can play. No matter if we have 12 inches of snow, rain for days, or triple digits! Oh, I can't wait!! ~Chels

Fun Gardening Ideas

Maybe I've been watching too many garden shows. You know, on PBS. But they are really interesting. And now, I want to garden. Never mind that it's just February. Or that I have a "Black Thumb." Or even that on a good day, I've got "Morning Sickness" for 20 hours a day!

But I want to garden. The more I search, the more I want to dig in the dirt. Invest in garden projects. And grow something green! There are definitely a few projects, that are sticking out more than others. Because of Pinterest, I've got nearly 200 things, that I'd like to try. But 3, I'm hoping to finish this year. :)

I don't really know what this is. But it makes me think, of securing plants to our back fence. I've seen this done a few different ways. With brightly colored containers. And they just make me happy!!

This sculpture/pot makes me so incredibly happy! I want to make this. Like 5 of them. This weekend. And I want to buy tons of colorful flowers, to fill them with. Oh, this is such a great idea!!

How about this vertical box? I've seen the one on the Home Depot commercial. Filled with flowers. But I think, it would be fun to put herbs in the box. And attach the box, near our kitchen. For me, this would be the most useful of the 3 projects.

What other ideas should I work on? I've got a head full of ideas! Too bad, our bank account isn't endless. But I won't sit here and pine on that. Nope! I want to get started. ASAP. On some fun and useful yard projects! Hopefully, I can grow something green. :) ~Chels

Daydreaming About....

Now that you all know, that we're expecting....I can share something with ya. I find myself daydreaming, about babies and kiddos all day long!! I'm 9 weeks, 3 days today. I look more, "ate too many donuts," than pregnant. I've been super sick....for weeks. I swear to ya, there is no such thing as "morning sickness!!" It's all day, every day!

But enough of that, I've just been dreaming of kiddos. And how fun this new chapter of our life, is going to be. I sit here and try to imagine life with a little girl, and a little boy. Of crazy days, filled with toys, tantrums, and lots of cuddles. I think about all of that. And it just makes all of the "morning sickness" worth it!!

Come on! How can you not be excited, over a sweet little girl like this? Playing in the park. Right down the road. All smiles!

Or a cute little boy. Just like this. Jumping around. Taking a leap off of our back porch. Enjoying all that life has to offer! Being rough and tough. And all that stuff.

I sit here and imagine what life is going to be. How different our life is going to be. But how exciting life is about to become. I just can't wait! Until the day I get to snap pictures like these. ~Chels

When Times Get Tough....

Lately, life has been tough. I feel like someone has kicked me in the stomach. Or is sitting here, with their hands inside me, torturing my insides. I've been so sick! "Morning sickness," is killing me. Literally, I spend 20 hours laying down. A day!! Why don't women talk about this stuff?

I've been feeling really bad. I mutter up enough energy to make my hubby some breakfast, take my vitamins, and shove something down my throat....every morning. Then I lay down. For hours and hours. Praying that it stays down. In the afternoon, I manage to get up again, throw in a load of laundry, and shove some lunch down my throat. Then I take a nap, until my hubby gets home.

Talk about feeling like crap! He comes home, to a messy home, no dinner, and a wife that looks like death. Poor man. If he wanted a divorce right now, I'd totally understand! My hubby comes home, from working 10 hours. And has to cook dinner. Then I feel really bad. And I try to do more laundry. And I cry. Cry every evening, in the middle of our bedroom.

To which my hubby comes to hold me. And tell me, it's OK. That life isn't always going to be like this. There is a reason. And that is, I'm growing  us a strong and healthy baby. My hubby reminds me that life isn't always going to be like this. That I'm doing something, that he can't do. Grow a baby. And he is more than happy, to pick up my slack.

Yes, my hubby makes us dinner. Preps both of our lunches. Finishes the laundry that I started earlier. Cleans the yard. And has started helping out with the housework. I pray, that this will not last much longer. I just don't know if I have it in me, to continue this way.

Last night, my hubby reminded me of our wedding vows. "For better, or for worse. In sickness, and in health." You never think about those things, when you're getting married. But on the tough days, the wedding vows, really do take on a new meaning. A more meaningful definition of marriage.

I know, in my heart, that all of this is for the well being of our baby. And our family. It doesn't make it easier. But it makes it easier to understand. I know, that I have an AMAZING husband. Lately, I've grown to know, he is so much more amazing, than I could ever dream up. He's so loving, caring, and understanding. I'm so thankful for my hubby! Yes, he makes my grey skies happy. He finds ways to make me smile, when no one else can. I'm so lucky to have him! Our baby is so lucky, that he is going to be their daddy!! ~Chels