tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88406126893106482442024-02-19T00:11:17.717-05:00the wildflower journalsin this wild life, I'm choosing to bloomLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.comBlogger279125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-81177984906010510872023-03-01T07:00:00.002-05:002023-03-01T07:00:00.196-05:00Spring Bucket List 2023<p style="text-align: center;"> Anyone else super excited about springtime? Here's my bucket list for the season...</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQY_4EqFFv3m9J-F_IhQl4nuuOSGF7QWzQ6siNWpR_oNP2e6jlHppe0_n_FQn6CZbDtq7XVC2arPKSy1Ra5una1LjRLJEXo-F7flk-eFOFbwmLxuoI09TKv66w9IzRQSIMyW1ntdyKN_AR34FMzxoWt2gIkQuTUy90Mrpym-w6WbcnS4yprzjNY3G/s2304/Spring%202023%20Bucket%20List.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1728" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQY_4EqFFv3m9J-F_IhQl4nuuOSGF7QWzQ6siNWpR_oNP2e6jlHppe0_n_FQn6CZbDtq7XVC2arPKSy1Ra5una1LjRLJEXo-F7flk-eFOFbwmLxuoI09TKv66w9IzRQSIMyW1ntdyKN_AR34FMzxoWt2gIkQuTUy90Mrpym-w6WbcnS4yprzjNY3G/w480-h640/Spring%202023%20Bucket%20List.png" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-2647490896345912752023-02-16T22:46:00.002-05:002023-02-16T22:50:32.177-05:00Baby Girl's Bedside Nursery Nook<p style="text-align: center;"> I have to admit, I was pretty bummed when I came to the realization that baby girl wasn't going to have her own designated nursery right away. Our house has 3 bedrooms - one for my husband & I, one for our toddler son, & the other is my husband's work from home office {not to mention our throw all the junk in room}. It just wasn't feasible to try & move my husband's office right now {though we plan to in the future months (fingers crossed)}. So, I did my best to make her little bedside nursery nook as cozy & cute as possible {& budget friendly, too, because that's just part of my DNA (hope she gets that gene, too)}. Here's how it turned out...</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZg1X0QeVVxhL8RZWVPo7KhoOVvMOYL6WrTYtRDgxMVVIVCyztzlIBTaII8jNJ_49xcA0jOg9droJTHqsetEytWMXYqPNnE11ri1SbRp4MWpeA0XnZQCT2IU1FXeHo2BEGTBF2L13DjZP0dpHgJPPvXnGLvuiC0DRF6n-czDuBs-YeFJw2xFLADaOe/s3264/baby%20girl%205za.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2690" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZg1X0QeVVxhL8RZWVPo7KhoOVvMOYL6WrTYtRDgxMVVIVCyztzlIBTaII8jNJ_49xcA0jOg9droJTHqsetEytWMXYqPNnE11ri1SbRp4MWpeA0XnZQCT2IU1FXeHo2BEGTBF2L13DjZP0dpHgJPPvXnGLvuiC0DRF6n-czDuBs-YeFJw2xFLADaOe/w528-h640/baby%20girl%205za.jpg" width="528" /></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Let me know if you have any questions about specific items & I'll do my best to tell you where they're from. For a super quick rundown the thrifted items are: the peg rail on the wall, the birdhouse nightlight, the wooden alphabet blocks {I actually scored the whole set minus one or two}, the <i>Princess Tales</i> paperback book {the lamp is sitting on top of}, the little wooden pale blue house, the gray baby shoes, the bassinet, the Holly Hobby baby doll {sitting in the bassinet}, & the Cuddle + Kind Daisy Cat {that was scored on Poshmark}. The small white framed piece was my 2 year old son's contribution to his little sister's space & a fun & simple way to make him feel even more a part of things.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Today was my last OB appointment, tomorrow is my due date, & an induction is scheduled for this Tuesday if this little lady doesn't make her appearance before then! Prayers appreciated!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Much Love,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Laura</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">P.S.: If you haven't already seen my nursery mood board - for when baby girl actually gets her own room in the future - check it out <u><a href="http://thewildflowerjournals.blogspot.com/2023/02/baby-girl-nursery-mood-board-some-kinda.html" target="_blank">here</a></u>.</div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-24235816764188649992023-02-04T22:31:00.005-05:002023-02-04T22:36:41.087-05:00A Word for 2023<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Pj8V_A23hQXPqyaf6HJnGdIAliz4ltrnq7v5CwXiTYVHSnICFglPNz_akYdIgbG_Pih4Q59nARP9idPjcQpgdk4gavV0vWQ5dI8sJqJNv3B2iJ-ZfTcLvl9q8EU0P3gug8zM3GC7oiXAOe_e7c0xiEZRnHKpQtSbo_1g5kzm01GlvfRzO9WMfpA4/s2304/Seek.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1728" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Pj8V_A23hQXPqyaf6HJnGdIAliz4ltrnq7v5CwXiTYVHSnICFglPNz_akYdIgbG_Pih4Q59nARP9idPjcQpgdk4gavV0vWQ5dI8sJqJNv3B2iJ-ZfTcLvl9q8EU0P3gug8zM3GC7oiXAOe_e7c0xiEZRnHKpQtSbo_1g5kzm01GlvfRzO9WMfpA4/w480-h640/Seek.png" width="480" /></a></div><p></p><p>I've been seeking things like we all do. (Did you realize the fact that we're all seeking?) We're all seekers of something - typically always <i>somethings</i> plural. But, what are you seeking first? What are you seeking the most? </p><p>Lately, this has been hitting me hard. I feel like I've been seeking things - a tidy home, a better marriage, to be a better mama, to be more beautiful inside & out, to find the perfect wallpaper for baby girl's nursery, to find the peace amidst the crazy pain of this broken place called our world, to find the best pregnancy safe face serum for this now over 35 mama... The list could go on pretty much into infinity. But what about Jesus?</p><p>This verse is it for me right now. <b>"But seek first His kingdom & His righteousness, & all these things will be given to you as well." -Matthew 6:33 NIV</b>. The words that feel most important to me are <i>first</i> & <i>His</i> (His referring to the Lord). Am I seeking Him first, or has His spot been jumbled somehow by the cares of this world & my own selfish sinfulness? Am I seeking His kingdom, or trying to build one of my own design? Honestly, I'm not happy with my answers, & honestly (again), it explains much of the anxiety I feel. The desire to be in control, to be safe, to have what I want when I want it, to be what the world says is best. I feel as if in this mess, I have lost my first Love (like the church in Ephesus in Revelation 2). And, well, these other "loves" just don't compare & always end in disappointment, & yet I chase them. Seek them. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>Lord, forgive me. Lord, bring me back to You, my first & truest Love. You are what I want to be seeking first & most & hardest. You, & you alone, are the one to satisfy the longings of my heart. May I fall deeper in love with you each & every day. Help me, Lord, to seek You first & Your kingdom & Your righteousness. In Jesus' Name, Amen.</i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>"You will seek Me & find Me when you seek Me with all your heart." -</b><b>Jeremiah 29:13</b></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-67205846325683481402023-02-01T16:35:00.002-05:002023-02-01T16:36:43.509-05:00Baby Girl Nursery Mood Board + Some Kinda Crazy Story Time<p style="text-align: center;"> So, this is how I am. Years ago now, early on in our marriage, <i>waaay</i> before any baby ever blessed my belly, my husband & I found ourselves on a little date night in Cracker Barrel. There, I happened upon what seemed like the cutest thing ever at the time - an expensive swan rocking toy. Somehow my dear sweet husband let me leave the store with this big ole' pricey thing. He knew I loved to save things for the one day maybe dreams. Just like I had done with greeting cards I purchased for him, long before I knew who <i>him</i> was. Does this sound crazy? I'm thinking this sounds crazy. Pretty sure now it probably was, but again, this is how I am. So, we took this large toy home to our apartment, & literally had no place to store it. It sat in our living room much of the time, & if anyone happened to stop by we'd hurriedly move it to our bedroom & shut the door. After all, we didn't want anyone to think we were pregnant when we obviously weren't. Fast forward to our sweet surprise of Reed. We were sure he would be a girl & he would ride this fancy swan one day {which, full disclosure, he has ridden it some even though he's a boy}. Surprise, God had a little boy in store for us first, & now we wouldn't have it any other way. Honestly, I thought we might never have a little girl & that was okay because God knew best. But, what would I do with this swan? Fast forward some more, & guess what God blessed us with? Another surprise baby for this PCOS mama, & this time a girl! My mom has 6 grandsons, & this will be the 1st granddaughter, & I am truly so very shocked that we now have a reason to have this big fancy swan rocker I bought all those years ago. All that to say, God is<i> sooo </i>good, & He has good plans! Also, all that to say, I've been stumped on whether to go full on all Swan Lake nursery, or go where my heart is kind of pulling me now to some kind of mashed up enchanted secret garden theme where obviously magical crown wearing swans live, too. Obviously. Anywho, that is where I'm going to - this loose flowery theme with some whimsical creatures here & there, & maybe a Frances Hodgson Burnett quote sprinkled in for good measure.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Here's the mood board...</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7iwZEAB0-4EA62TYATYShPpgFlra-mXsqK9QITF1fH7LnMzonMpeRFy4jT8HqSJRcZrzkaXz3nQNV1bi8gsfNusnWOItHYksDCtTvfPGretolzrSwjQ2cqqeLkXLT0WQ5gu6Z4xmH7QZ5gmNJpP5S14R4LhjzE4BVCGEa2btl6qgSP3XSkuAI-Wm4/s2304/Enchanted%20Secret%20Garden%20Nursery.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1728" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7iwZEAB0-4EA62TYATYShPpgFlra-mXsqK9QITF1fH7LnMzonMpeRFy4jT8HqSJRcZrzkaXz3nQNV1bi8gsfNusnWOItHYksDCtTvfPGretolzrSwjQ2cqqeLkXLT0WQ5gu6Z4xmH7QZ5gmNJpP5S14R4LhjzE4BVCGEa2btl6qgSP3XSkuAI-Wm4/w480-h640/Enchanted%20Secret%20Garden%20Nursery.png" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;">P.S.: Leave me a comment if you're interested in where something's from, & I'll be sure to get you the link! Also, check out my full Pinterest baby girl nursery board <u><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/girlfive/sweet-baby-girl-nursery/" target="_blank">here</a></u>.</p><p style="text-align: center;">P.P.S.: This girl is coming soon, & this mama is going to have to keep dreaming her nursery dreams for awhile longer, because baby girl's nursery space is still her daddy's office {not to mention our throw-all-the-junk-in room}. We'll work it out in time, & baby girl will be rooming with us for the first several months anyhow. I did buy the rug shown above, though, so that's a start.</p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-77098944181253645612022-12-06T16:58:00.006-05:002022-12-06T17:00:39.194-05:00Our 2nd Baby's Gender Reveal<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="285" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/auFtePcxnrM" title="YouTube video player" width="530"></iframe><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We are all so excited to meet this little one!</div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-31795955283245867272022-12-01T23:13:00.003-05:002022-12-01T23:13:40.073-05:00My Favorite Christ Centered Christmas Children's Books<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlX8BIGiQBwJxu01byCQNO5OZ4IBneGxWcpHfHKMIZ1ytf1nqP9DHLIpGtJJl5ztCLsJtCo_X__Z_ihSIwl7onKpezpAPfZqgkUyTrxO2aW6g56aCRzHA7om_wd2rtFxyil-8o_B4Nk-J__fFTH-JPLMFD9RNmIA6owXzx6xZ28Ble1jbtdTPmNR35/s2304/Christ%20Centered%20Christmas%20Books%20for%20Kiddos.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1728" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlX8BIGiQBwJxu01byCQNO5OZ4IBneGxWcpHfHKMIZ1ytf1nqP9DHLIpGtJJl5ztCLsJtCo_X__Z_ihSIwl7onKpezpAPfZqgkUyTrxO2aW6g56aCRzHA7om_wd2rtFxyil-8o_B4Nk-J__fFTH-JPLMFD9RNmIA6owXzx6xZ28Ble1jbtdTPmNR35/w480-h640/Christ%20Centered%20Christmas%20Books%20for%20Kiddos.png" width="480" /></a></div><p> There's something simply magical about snuggling by the light of the Christmas tree in cozy Christmas PJs to read a story with your little{s}. At least, I imagine there is. My two year old toddler guy is typically struggling out of my lap & forever running wild, & honestly the best times I find to read to him are when he's confined to a high chair {just keeping it real here}. I can roll the highchair out tree side at least, so there's that. Anywho, there are <i>so</i> many Christmas books out there for kiddos - more secular than not most of the time, but there are still plenty that spread the message of the true meaning of Christmas if you know where to look. Here's some of our favorites... {Also, we thrifted almost all of these!}</p><p>1. <i><a href="https://www.christianbook.com/my-merry-christmas-sally-lloyd-jones/9781433648953/pd/648953?en=google&event=SHOP&kw=childrens-books-0-20%7C648953&p=1179710&utm_source=google&dv=c&gclid=Cj0KCQiAvqGcBhCJARIsAFQ5ke4t1QJqWebl4SlsbRAO7Ox81WxdiA7au9HFgUzIHkPbcxms9F0md1YaAu3qEALw_wcB" target="_blank">My Merry Christmas</a></i> by Sally Lloyd-Jones</p><p>2. <i><a href="https://www.christianbook.com/god-gave-us-christmas/lisa-bergren/9781400071753/pd/071755?product_redirect=1&search_term=god%20gave%20us%20&Ntt=071755&item_code=&ps_exit=PRODUCT|legacy&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP" target="_blank">God Gave Us Christmas</a></i> by Lisa Tawn Bergren</p><p>3. <i><a href="https://www.christianbook.com/the-christmas-baby-marion-bauer/9781481444255/pd/1444255?event=ESRCG" target="_blank">The Christmas Baby</a></i> by Marion Dane Bauer</p><p>4. <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Nativity-Flap-Book-Usborne/dp/0794525598/ref=asc_df_0794525598/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=385480457215&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16749647968195093250&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1015303&hvtargid=pla-843012021966&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=77500929534&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=385480457215&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16749647968195093250&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1015303&hvtargid=pla-843012021966" target="_blank">Usborne Nativity Flap Book</a></i> by Sam Taplin</p><p>5. <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Legend-Candy-Cane-Walburg-1997-10-19/dp/B017YC4372/ref=sr_1_3?crid=X4N0ENGS4O5C&keywords=legend+of+the+candy+cane+book&qid=1669953419&s=books&sprefix=legend+of+the+can%2Cstripbooks%2C88&sr=1-3" target="_blank">The Legend of the Candy Cane</a></i> by Lori Walburg</p><p>6. <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Story-Christmas-Patricia-Pingry/dp/0824918452/ref=asc_df_0824918452/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312695551910&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8659843070823958663&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1015303&hvtargid=pla-569014800126&psc=1" target="_blank">The Story of Christmas</a></i> by Patricia A. Pingry</p><p>7. <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Winter-Poems-Prayers-Weather-Windows/dp/0570071690" target="_blank">Winter: Poems, Songs, Prayers</a></i> by Concordia Publishing House</p><p>8. <i><a href="https://www.christianbook.com/this-is-the-stable/cynthia-cotton/9780312384210/pd/384210?product_redirect=1&search_term=this%20is%20the%20stable&Ntt=384210&item_code=&ps_exit=PRODUCT|legacy&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP" target="_blank">This is the Stable</a></i> by Cynthia Cotton</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidVvqPLoNyKgMVTKML1qa0Kpy0VkGsBfNrYLRw5WXyXRreynlw3JYzJH26TrHIgEze-gddCNi1Re9IKibvi9oYnKMUPir6O4r1NXmDPNrH9QsWmTwfboYISQo_k5yE7PTE8xkGGOOJeh-uhuCI2S6O1GxpzoG3mmvSHqY5v7gUjGR8VPO1nTq4Y83i/s2304/Christ%20Centered%20Christmas%20Books%20for%20Kiddos%20(1).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1728" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidVvqPLoNyKgMVTKML1qa0Kpy0VkGsBfNrYLRw5WXyXRreynlw3JYzJH26TrHIgEze-gddCNi1Re9IKibvi9oYnKMUPir6O4r1NXmDPNrH9QsWmTwfboYISQo_k5yE7PTE8xkGGOOJeh-uhuCI2S6O1GxpzoG3mmvSHqY5v7gUjGR8VPO1nTq4Y83i/w480-h640/Christ%20Centered%20Christmas%20Books%20for%20Kiddos%20(1).png" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Truly there are so many other children's book gems out there that still point to Jesus as the reason for the season - these are just the few that grace our collection. Let me know in a comment if you have any recommendations to add to this category!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Much Merry Reading,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Laura</div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-65316127016224886952022-11-30T21:02:00.001-05:002022-12-01T23:14:59.422-05:00Keeping Christ in Christmas<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlVXlV4Z9j-O-oUyPeAs1SeCLv1fWJcm5MHP0PY2WXy3RbaHOOY7rKatDeBTKayvO7_YIKKom2nMOdm0XNqKZ9NoCt1YAFXuYThCme3E9dNJtRT5XaWwBgrs4hYwHhH92Bfk0O-7hRDAS8KW2x4z2VB5e9RuFyVMPc7xMvtqqKZUKceSop3s19KES/s2304/Keeping%20Christ.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1728" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlVXlV4Z9j-O-oUyPeAs1SeCLv1fWJcm5MHP0PY2WXy3RbaHOOY7rKatDeBTKayvO7_YIKKom2nMOdm0XNqKZ9NoCt1YAFXuYThCme3E9dNJtRT5XaWwBgrs4hYwHhH92Bfk0O-7hRDAS8KW2x4z2VB5e9RuFyVMPc7xMvtqqKZUKceSop3s19KES/w480-h640/Keeping%20Christ.png" width="480" /></a><br /><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">There is a hubbub at Christmastime unlike any other. Lights blare, a soundtrack booms of "Santa Baby" & "All I Want for Christmas is You," advertisements entice, hurry & stress seem permissible & downright necessary, overspending & debt are the norm, & the true meaning of the day gets lost in all the noise & flash. It is the most important story for all of humanity, & yet it is not what this old world wants us to see or hear this time of year.</p><p>The enemy has done his best to take over this holy day & make it as worldly as possible. So then, how do we keep the focus on the true meaning of the season in our hearts & homes, & in the hearts of our kids? As mamas & homemakers, we have the power to take this day back for what it is - the birthday of our blessed Savior. Here are a few simple ways we use special traditions to point our kiddos {& ourselves} back to Jesus amidst the crazy the world puts on display.</p><p>-<b>Have a simple birthday party for Jesus. </b>Make cupcakes or a cake together, sing the birthday song to Jesus, & talk about ways to give "gifts" to Jesus in behavior, praise, prayer, & obedience.</p><p>-<b>Find a child friendly nativity for your littles to play with. </b> We have a secondhand <u><a href="https://www.christianbook.com/fisher-price-little-people-nativity/pd/06262X?en=google&event=SHOP&kw=toys-20-40%7C06262X&p=1179710&utm_source=google&dv=c&cb_src=google&cb_typ=shopping&cb_cmp=1532686926&cb_adg=63995803812&cb_kyw=&gclid=Cj0KCQiAm5ycBhCXARIsAPldzoVqAubZJtA2xfLeNMZWFp7avjnw5dD5n1z4oZ53LVhJzSF6XbnTjTMaAsbMEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Little People</a></u> one our son loves.</p><p>-<b>Read scripture daily this December as a family.</b> Luke has 24 chapters; read one a day & you get through the entire book by December 24th, letting you then reread the passage of the birth of Christ on Christmas day. There are also scripture advent calendar ideas via Pinterest or just plain old Google to explore.</p><p>-<b>Place baby Jesus under the tree.</b> For our current season with a busy & curious toddler, we take a little plastic baby doll we literally found at the Dollar Tree, wrap him in cloth, & place him in a simple basket filled with "hay" {craft store raffia}. This let's us have so many moments to talk about how Jesus is the true & best gift. Also, the child friendly nativity option talked about above, could be placed under the tree, too, for little ones to engage in. If you have older kiddos, you might place a whole fragile nativity set under the tree.</p><p>-<b>Find Christmas children's books that point to Christ.</b> We have a LOT of Christmas books in our house, & while it's true that not every one is about the real reason for the season, the ones that are are by far my most favorite to read to my son. I've created a whole post sharing my favorite faith filled Christmas books for kiddos you can find <u><a href="http://thewildflowerjournals.blogspot.com/2022/12/my-favorite-christ-centered-christmas.html" target="_blank">here</a></u>.</p><p><b>-Give to others as a family this Christmas.</b> Find ways to serve, give, & love on others this season as a family, all because of Jesus. This could mean visiting a nursing home or shut-ins from your church, giving Christmas goodies to your neighbors, filling a shoe box for <a href="https://www.samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/buildonline/?utm_source=Ggl&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=m_YGOC-B22V&utm_content=BASBOAd&gclid=Cj0KCQiAm5ycBhCXARIsAPldzoWK1Lyl9Cz3FdjwHM2JxJauBEA65fiS93V9lqcOLreOtJOMLwN3DuAaAkpCEALw_wcB" style="text-decoration-line: underline;" target="_blank">Operation Christmas Child</a> {note the deadline for collecting these is typically in November}, helping out at a food bank or shelter... The possibilities really are endless. Make sure you use these moments of serving, to remind your kiddos {& yourself} that "We love because He first loved us." -1 John 4:19, & the greatest way God shows us His love is in giving us Jesus.</p><p>-<b>Place an importance on attending church this Christmas.</b> This December 25th {2022} actually falls on a Sunday. I have been amazed to hear Christian families rationalize not attending church on this day because they were too busy with celebrating the holiday. How crazy this seems to me, when the whole reason for this holy holiday is Jesus! We don't take a vacation from church {literally, growing up & going on vacation, we always found a church to attend come Sunday & that left a great mark on me to the importance of our faith}. Make a statement to your family, that Christ truly is the center of Christmas. And, yes, we will be at the Christmas Eve service the night before, too. 😉</p><p style="text-align: center;">Bonus Ideas:</p><p style="text-align: center;">-<b>Display special Christmas decor in your home that focuses on Jesus.</b></p><p style="text-align: center;">-<b>Try the Elf on the Shelf alternative <u><a href="https://www.christianbook.com/shepherd-search-advent-activity-nativity-keepsake/9781644543542/pd/3668784?en=google&event=SHOP&kw=calendars-20-40%7C3668784&p=1179710&utm_source=google&dv=c&cb_src=google&cb_typ=shopping&cb_cmp=18952262772&cb_adg=143654563357&cb_kyw=&gclid=Cj0KCQiAm5ycBhCXARIsAPldzoVKZWB_T3euFTKNOla9Cmx3k2oJhZifk3OLpiKdbpOKB5iOlu05_1YaAnKfEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Shepherd on the Search</a></u>.</b> I really want to look into this for next year when my little boy will be 3. I'll be keeping my eye out for after Christmas sales on this!</p><p style="text-align: center;">-<b>Teach your kiddos the old Christmas hymns & carols of the faith.</b></p><p style="text-align: center;">What are some ways you keep Christ at the center of Christmas? I'd love to know, leave me a comment!</p><p style="text-align: center;">Merry {Christ}mas,</p><p style="text-align: center;">Laura</p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-59992245469980213862022-11-18T22:28:00.001-05:002022-11-19T14:01:02.840-05:00Well... Guess What?<p style="text-align: center;"> After my "return" to this little ole' blog in late April of this year, I quickly disappeared yet again with the busyness of life & a broken laptop. And then, well, we had a sweet surprise! We're expecting our 2nd little one in February 2023! Can't wait to meet this newest little Valentine!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVL7eLclziGWl76_1NPLpHbY-xi1VSR9bylfd1MC8YkVzQC5MymkJnARZggoSUsMo7o5JadynMUb7fPn2ThsqV--2PqPhl77-0bi58GCpNEaj0WBrdXdJS64cMqDuYhbmog5-Zqk7pBQaEDDl9M6pM-GOPFiVMBRQ9atcsMb2eSXYKIm1QNagludIz/s1125/Maternity.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="728" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVL7eLclziGWl76_1NPLpHbY-xi1VSR9bylfd1MC8YkVzQC5MymkJnARZggoSUsMo7o5JadynMUb7fPn2ThsqV--2PqPhl77-0bi58GCpNEaj0WBrdXdJS64cMqDuYhbmog5-Zqk7pBQaEDDl9M6pM-GOPFiVMBRQ9atcsMb2eSXYKIm1QNagludIz/w414-h640/Maternity.jpg" width="414" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">P.S.: I also got a new laptop, so I'm going to try & be "back" once again. We shall see. Fingers crossed.</p><p style="text-align: center;">P.P.S.: Hoping to get a gender reveal video up soon!</p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-21060101785168296232022-05-04T22:12:00.003-04:002022-05-04T22:15:27.391-04:00Mother's Day Read Alouds for Babies & Toddlers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq6twywFJ13sheWu920nLf3rYoweX1Dy2w8p-Dx1h8HLUa8UpZ1SXR_F2ua0Y4zpKmROjy1m6dQrZEB6XGx8ouUWl7MXqP782jg0HeU-T8DzcuWhadrYrGq-PlblJejJrUWaxL5yohBBsNp4It82xPkxNXoqOdf3jPnDISX-b5JCEAz6JmJbZ3ngmb/s1200/may%202022%201a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq6twywFJ13sheWu920nLf3rYoweX1Dy2w8p-Dx1h8HLUa8UpZ1SXR_F2ua0Y4zpKmROjy1m6dQrZEB6XGx8ouUWl7MXqP782jg0HeU-T8DzcuWhadrYrGq-PlblJejJrUWaxL5yohBBsNp4It82xPkxNXoqOdf3jPnDISX-b5JCEAz6JmJbZ3ngmb/w400-h400/may%202022%201a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Celebrate Mother's Day with the special little one{s} in your life & this mix of fun + sentimental read alouds perfect for babies & toddlers!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From left to right.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1. <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Does-Kangaroo-Have-Mother-Too/dp/006443642X#:~:text=Of%20course%20they%20do%E2%80%94just,of%20animal%20has%20a%20mother." target="_blank">Does a Kangaroo Have a Mother, Too?</a></u> by Eric Carle</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2. <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Grandma-Kisses-Laura-Neutzling/dp/071803659X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2K2ZKYBTYLJBR&keywords=grandma+kisses&qid=1651716268&s=books&sprefix=grandma+kisses%2Cstripbooks%2C105&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Grandma Kisses</a></u> by Laura Neutzling</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">3. <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Love-You-Because-Youre/dp/0545029317/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3PMZM6ZIJHQIA&keywords=i+love+you+because+you%27re+you&qid=1651716331&s=books&sprefix=i+love+you+because+%2Cstripbooks%2C131&sr=1-1" target="_blank">I Love You Because You're You</a></u> by Liza Baker</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">4. <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/You-Made-Mother-Laurenne-Sala/dp/0062358863/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1CZ8Z0IX7BA4X&keywords=you+made+me+a+mother&qid=1651716400&s=books&sprefix=you+made+%2Cstripbooks%2C121&sr=1-1" target="_blank">You Made Me a Mother</a></u> by Laurenne Sala</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">5. <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Are-You-Mother-P-D-Eastman/dp/0394800184/ref=sr_1_1?crid=CK1RI35VG4YU&keywords=are+you+my+mother&qid=1651716881&s=books&sprefix=are+you+my+mother%2Cstripbooks%2C363&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Are You My Mother?</a></u> by P.D. Eastman</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">6. <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Littles-They-Grow-Kelly-DiPucchio/dp/1984829858/ref=sr_1_1?crid=19YWTRTF377XL&keywords=littles+and+how+they+grow&qid=1651716526&s=books&sprefix=littles+%2Cstripbooks%2C182&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Littles: And How They Grow</a></u> by Kelly DiPucchio</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Let me know if you have any Mother's Day book recommendations!</div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-43370195689883733822022-04-28T23:28:00.001-04:002022-04-28T23:28:45.107-04:00Introducing Our Son...<p style="text-align: center;">Um, yes, I know he's almost 2.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Maybe introducing him this late seems a bit much, but we'll just blame it on COVID & mama's tiredness & major absence from this little ole' blog. Nevertheless, here he is our sweet little bundle, not quite so little anymore.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0lJH5Hlo-ewvPF7Xdpgz8v4ORnkdW9J_4AYPk_2Fmhuq70lhtk_3PBKm6y004cOhGqJf-fsT6gJnT6NN6pKVrcqT1EEVo6ALBFFf19_mKZcTSDkkBUGDfUOE-YHC6q0CtkXDrStKTNpRziTI5LzIFUZ-2gQLgSRumXvNAyeYLNXqJSk1eba6dKtN/s846/june%202020%2026z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="846" data-original-width="804" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0lJH5Hlo-ewvPF7Xdpgz8v4ORnkdW9J_4AYPk_2Fmhuq70lhtk_3PBKm6y004cOhGqJf-fsT6gJnT6NN6pKVrcqT1EEVo6ALBFFf19_mKZcTSDkkBUGDfUOE-YHC6q0CtkXDrStKTNpRziTI5LzIFUZ-2gQLgSRumXvNAyeYLNXqJSk1eba6dKtN/w380-h400/june%202020%2026z.jpg" width="380" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">Reed Maverick</p><p style="text-align: center;">7 lbs. 7 oz.</p><p style="text-align: center;">21 in. long</p><p style="text-align: center;">June 20, 2020</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36mJV9FrZZRPvm0RqkcX1fBeSw_cooGEM7DvseDIyLVPpGfdgbU1crkIC8qUPcOxzy5nvmCPH01nV2K8VtIrjUKbzEfEHfSNr1ZIKp1D-dV5RXvsoA0IEQNhpQ7ZPm5g4YDwPx1jb6R0WufmOq3krxBorbYCVeoJIE1ruxs9wSWdStlvZ7pymabaY/s3264/baby%20reed%20blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="3264" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36mJV9FrZZRPvm0RqkcX1fBeSw_cooGEM7DvseDIyLVPpGfdgbU1crkIC8qUPcOxzy5nvmCPH01nV2K8VtIrjUKbzEfEHfSNr1ZIKp1D-dV5RXvsoA0IEQNhpQ7ZPm5g4YDwPx1jb6R0WufmOq3krxBorbYCVeoJIE1ruxs9wSWdStlvZ7pymabaY/w400-h400/baby%20reed%20blog.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And now here he is today... Yes, all the quips are true. They grow so fast, & the days are long & the years are short, but oh so sweet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0GQo0tepPEPnHZUfii_5EQks0iIPyIngI61cbVB1LtaS7LmrMdAu-tyQCuMpe0wZavXVAKVZ_akPrLoNxGsLm9A12lYAoXP2V3YiYw7NAMsjrS45qlwPcmcxtRe0GjtUF-vGULOkk9J9S8LE5bhmPz1YZljcAywwPIq68xAQOv0dTk6uwGvo_pQEo/s3264/baby%20reed%20blog%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="3264" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0GQo0tepPEPnHZUfii_5EQks0iIPyIngI61cbVB1LtaS7LmrMdAu-tyQCuMpe0wZavXVAKVZ_akPrLoNxGsLm9A12lYAoXP2V3YiYw7NAMsjrS45qlwPcmcxtRe0GjtUF-vGULOkk9J9S8LE5bhmPz1YZljcAywwPIq68xAQOv0dTk6uwGvo_pQEo/w400-h400/baby%20reed%20blog%202.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-17373854475844394432022-04-27T23:52:00.005-04:002022-04-27T23:52:56.752-04:00Long Time No See {I'm Back!}<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl3BzKr7NF8yvbMJZlDqmgF4aa5LbvDztf60yC8e7X0Qh7HLF4s1Rms2l7f2wdqmo3iaBwjVSgvo-U0LImhLnU2fgMpJJSfZxKsdfublwxDvDwYsjSe9Vy44GNqdEUjVl_UC18suGIrkXlZeNceMFRf-B7bbDhn5WB-gLMH9wIacuWGDI5LaqrhA5x/s878/I'm%20back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="878" data-original-width="832" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl3BzKr7NF8yvbMJZlDqmgF4aa5LbvDztf60yC8e7X0Qh7HLF4s1Rms2l7f2wdqmo3iaBwjVSgvo-U0LImhLnU2fgMpJJSfZxKsdfublwxDvDwYsjSe9Vy44GNqdEUjVl_UC18suGIrkXlZeNceMFRf-B7bbDhn5WB-gLMH9wIacuWGDI5LaqrhA5x/w379-h400/I'm%20back.jpg" width="379" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>You guys, if any of you are still out there, I have missed you! And I have missed this space to write in, & share in, & be creative in so very very much. Last time I was on here I was majorly a pregnant girl waddling about with such a grateful {& pretty nervous, let's be honest} heart. Now, I'm a mama to our sweet boy about to celebrate my 2nd Mother's Day ever {with him outside the womb} at 35 years of age {& he's about to turn 2 in June!!!}. So much has happened since that last post, & a lot of it feels like a blur, a true swirling whirling whirlwind of time. We've got a lot to catch up on! I realize that I've missed this outlet & special space, & I love using it to chronicle these days that I so don't want to forget. I'm back, you guys! <i>I am back</i>!</p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Love,</p><p style="text-align: center;">Laura</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">P.S.: I promise to introduce you to my boy next!</p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-86850556169140953752020-03-04T11:58:00.000-05:002020-03-04T11:58:10.977-05:00Baby's Gender Reveal Video!<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="285" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cc7hstOozwA" width="530"></iframe>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-38596590738943107402020-02-13T15:23:00.000-05:002020-02-13T15:23:12.559-05:00My Photo Pregnancy Diary // Weeks 17-21<div style="text-align: center;">
// January 2020 //</div>
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// February 2020 //</div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-83659325077435234472020-02-05T13:09:00.001-05:002020-02-05T13:10:18.726-05:00Valentine's Wish List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrw2JJoPIoiVSIVarKLUno_iBb2BysF09xTIq4SqQYKWZmXZhBh5hg1raQpVBK8vj8ivC_qWKGwFwgnOfAFSikE6LuEfSaX5DnTp4zV7HKHfpqeeMmfydH8PbVJ4p1TWOQtR_yUbISRmo/s1600/vday+2020+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1356" data-original-width="1600" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrw2JJoPIoiVSIVarKLUno_iBb2BysF09xTIq4SqQYKWZmXZhBh5hg1raQpVBK8vj8ivC_qWKGwFwgnOfAFSikE6LuEfSaX5DnTp4zV7HKHfpqeeMmfydH8PbVJ4p1TWOQtR_yUbISRmo/s400/vday+2020+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love Valentine's Day. I always have. Even when I was single - it's true! Now that I'm married & preggo this year it just makes it even more special. I can't believe this is going to be our last Valentine's Day just the two of us! It's crazy, but my basketball smuggling tummy size keeps me grounded in the reality of it all. </div>
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Here's some things I'd love to receive this February 14th...</div>
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1. chocolate - maybe a mix of milk & dark<br />
2. mini rose potted plant - this way it won't be a wilted bouquet in a week {let's hope}<br />
<u><a href="https://www.target.com/p/maternity-floral-print-short-sleeve-knit-maxi-dress-isabel-maternity-by-ingrid-isabel/-/A-78614016?preselect=78136689#lnk=sametab" target="_blank">3.</a></u> <i>or</i> <u><a href="https://www.target.com/p/maternity-floral-print-short-sleeve-smocked-maxi-dress-isabel-maternity-by-ingrid-isabel-blush/-/A-78361762?preselect=77787614#lnk=sametab" target="_blank">4.</a></u> maternity dress - pick one {Dan, which one do you think I'd look best in?}Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-48564116363406124932020-01-28T14:24:00.000-05:002020-01-28T14:27:56.224-05:00My Photo Pregnancy Diary // Weeks 12-16<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The 1st trimester exhaustion + nausea + anxiety kept me from being very motivated to do much - much less take bump photos. But starting at 12 weeks I've been trying to keep up with it. Here's a look at my weeks 12-16.</div>
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// December 2019 //</div>
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// January 2020 //</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgps9bT7wlocu2KnW024141CowSGk0u6ezaTFoeifTm-vtqyesrNtJDh_yUAptjK59b9iVw2ApOypOubZvajGrN_SA0A4s6RHpC0XGAgONYcgGhqWyjVcIaxzW3mflqrJEf0qdckfVv9L8/s1600/16+weeks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="1173" height="383" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgps9bT7wlocu2KnW024141CowSGk0u6ezaTFoeifTm-vtqyesrNtJDh_yUAptjK59b9iVw2ApOypOubZvajGrN_SA0A4s6RHpC0XGAgONYcgGhqWyjVcIaxzW3mflqrJEf0qdckfVv9L8/s400/16+weeks.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-91316455261233615382020-01-27T19:37:00.000-05:002020-01-27T19:37:04.363-05:001st Trimester Faves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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These are the things I loved in my 1st 3 months of pregnancy...</div>
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1. <u><a href="https://www.target.com/p/vitafusion-prenatal-multivitamin-dietary-supplement-gummies-lemon-raspberry-lemonade-90ct/-/A-12353429?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&fndsrc=tgtao&CPNG=PLA_Health%2BShopping_Brand&adgroup=SC_Health&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9011443&ds_rl=1246978&ds_rl=1247077&ds_rl=1246978&gclid=CjwKCAiAob3vBRAUEiwAIbs5Tsy3-C0vSBBa9KQIiKpQ-0RpGcF0BKMQi0QZUKC-A-KiKYIRRbYf1xoC4BEQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Vitafusion PreNatal Multivitamin Gummies</a></u><br />
Let me premise this by saying I am <i>the worst</i> pill taker ever. There is some kind of weird phobia thing going on with me & I have a terrible {read: <strike>almost</strike> often impossible} time swallowing meds. This being the case, I knew I wanted a gummy prenatal vitamin if at all possible. This one by Vitafusion fits the bill! It's got a great raspberry lemonade flavor + is gentle on the stomach. I take 2 every day!<br />
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2. <u><a href="https://warners.com/intimates/easy-does-it-wire-free-no-dig/" target="_blank">Warner's Easy Does It Wire-Free No Dig Bra</a></u><br />
I had found a couple of these at Marshalls before I was even pregnant & snagged 'em because I've always loved Warner's + these looked extra comfy {which they did not disappoint}. And when pregnancy hit & things started changing {& hurting} in that area, I found this bra was the only one I owned that felt good on. Basically I've had only these 2 bras on constant rotation that I've lived in the last couple of months!<br />
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3. <u><a href="https://www.target.com/p/goody-ouchless-thick-hair-elastics-10ct/-/A-53349196" target="_blank">Hair Ties</a></u><br />
Yep, good old fashioned hair ties! Why, you may ask? Well, they help extend your pants for just a little while longer & give you a little more confidence than just wearing your pants unbuttoned with a long top + hoping for the best. I have done both, & wholeheartedly vote on the hair ties!<br />
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4. <u><a href="https://www.target.com/p/love-beauty-planet-murumuru-butter-and-rose-oil-hand-and-body-lotion-13-5oz/-/A-75558431" target="_blank">Love Beauty & Planet Murumuru Butter & Rose Oil Hand & Body Lotion</a></u><br />
A few reasons why I love this: it's safe to use during pregnancy + dye-free, paraben-free, & plant-based! It doesn't hurt that it smells great + really works on dry skin {which I experienced a lot at the start of my pregnancy}. There are loads of other scents + products in this line to try & I just discovered this comes in a <u><a href="https://www.target.com/p/love-beauty-and-planet-rose-hand-and-body-lotion-9-17-fl-oz/-/A-76149637" target="_blank">body butter</a></u>, too!<br />
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5. <u><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/IntermountainMoms" target="_blank">Intermountain Moms Youtube Channel</a></u><br />
I stumbled across this Youtube channel when looking up baby related videos one day, & it has been such a wealth of information. If you are expecting, especially for the first time, I highly recommend taking a look at these videos. I think they have some uploads from years & years ago which I have not looked at, but the newer ones specifically with Nurse Dani are awesome.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-54955036391444141562020-01-01T11:15:00.001-05:002020-01-01T11:29:32.246-05:00Things I Want To Do This January<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixgs3lZ-jQvfTlSqM1OFdAI1RFjk4Y2DYrSs4ld2Uowh1i8o5jFgP_R_I0LIa1e5AOqA7hyphenhyphenJblf_i1o4lpwzBKnLBqnXuLF-7Ja3fH8rH8wcqsIMNxbIFuTmT7lJJtqaGsZ2lTAvy27-c/s1600/january+2020+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="244" data-original-width="334" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixgs3lZ-jQvfTlSqM1OFdAI1RFjk4Y2DYrSs4ld2Uowh1i8o5jFgP_R_I0LIa1e5AOqA7hyphenhyphenJblf_i1o4lpwzBKnLBqnXuLF-7Ja3fH8rH8wcqsIMNxbIFuTmT7lJJtqaGsZ2lTAvy27-c/s320/january+2020+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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1. Listen to 1 {or more} Revive Our Hearts <u><a href="https://www.reviveourhearts.com/podcast/revive-our-hearts/" target="_blank">podcasts</a></u> daily. These are around 25 minutes of solid Biblical teaching, wisdom, & hope designed for women by women. These bless my soul & there are tons you can listen to for free or download for free on <u><a href="http://reviveourhearts.com/" target="_blank">reviveourhearts.com</a></u>. You can also search lots of <u><a href="https://www.reviveourhearts.com/resource-library/topics/" target="_blank">topics</a></u> to find the podcast that speaks most to you in your current season. I think my January 1st one will be <a href="https://www.reviveourhearts.com/podcast/revive-our-hearts/facing-future-without-fear/" style="text-decoration-line: underline;" target="_blank">this</a> followed by <u><a href="https://www.reviveourhearts.com/podcast/revive-our-hearts/start-your-day-with-god-2/" target="_blank">this</a></u>.<br />
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2. Read 1 book {at least}.<br />
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3. Clean + declutter our apartment. It needs it. Desperately.<br />
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4. Take a 15 minute walk daily {either outside, at a store/mall, or on the treadmill at our apartment's community gym}.<br />
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5. Journal more. At least once a week.<br />
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These are the things I want to accomplish this January. Some of them, like listening to Revive Our Hearts, reading, walking, journaling, etc. I may just want to carry through to other months or even the whole year, but this is my start. There are also things I've been doing that I want to continue in 2020 {& do better with more intentionality}, like reading my Bible daily, drinking lots of water {#pregnancylife}, & others. I can't wait to see how God works in this year & in my heart.<br />
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What are some of your goals for this new decade?</div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-86492611030964402332019-12-31T21:28:00.003-05:002019-12-31T21:36:20.252-05:00Finding Out We Are Pregnant!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCtf1drwj-t3I4KA3qVWAmM8dw-n_ktWeRFy_2WyO5HsR_w0y5CZDjbPsVXn-fXhV2VyHOFniiPOuSYdk20xwAp4sWggS8_lheYtPdtbIHhAlqG5Vx4_nIhRgBY6kSf4RtGcug7_43qes/s1600/baby+12a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1101" data-original-width="743" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCtf1drwj-t3I4KA3qVWAmM8dw-n_ktWeRFy_2WyO5HsR_w0y5CZDjbPsVXn-fXhV2VyHOFniiPOuSYdk20xwAp4sWggS8_lheYtPdtbIHhAlqG5Vx4_nIhRgBY6kSf4RtGcug7_43qes/s640/baby+12a.jpg" width="430" /></a></div>
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It's funny, I remember that morning taking my prenatal vitamin like I had for what felt like <i>forever </i>{doctor advised it when I told her we were wanting to start trying over a year ago}, & I thought briefly to myself, "Why am I even taking this?" That day at school I felt off & irritable & tired & I decided to take a pregnancy test when I got home. But, I didn't have high hopes. I had taken one a few days before & nothing, so I was pretty much certain it was a fluke. In fact, when you have PCOS & your period is already late 9 times out of 10, you can find yourself taking a lot of pregnancy tests. For some in the past I had been really hopeful, but this one not so much. In fact, I dipped the pee stick, laid it on top of its wrapper on the counter, & jumped in the shower, not even bothering to look at the thing until I got out. I did not think I was pregnant. Of all the countless tests I had taken since our marriage began none felt less likely to be positive than this one - but I guess deep down I had enough smidgen of hope to check & see. What's impossible for God, right? Imagine my surprise when I got out & gazed down at the test. <i>Wait... Is that a faint line?! </i>I honestly remember saying out loud, something to the effect of, "That's not supposed to be there!" a couple times over before kneeling, praying, thanking, laughing, crying, praising, dizzy reeling from all the emotions & the wondering is this really <i>real</i>?<br />
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Day I Found Out: October 8, 2019<br />
Day I Told Dan: I think it was after midnight, so technically October 9, 2019<br />
Day We Saw Our Baby for the 1st Time: November 6, 2019<br />
Due Date: June 18, 2020<br />
God is Good: <i>ALL</i> the timeLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-4519352364240375252019-12-16T10:46:00.000-05:002019-12-16T10:46:33.672-05:00We Are Expecting!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Can you believe it?! This is a shock, &, first & foremost, a praise. More deets coming soon!</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-91492614175493139172019-11-24T14:22:00.002-05:002019-11-24T14:22:44.565-05:00My Favorite {2 Ingredient!} Pumpkin Muffins<div style="text-align: center;">
Easy recipes are pretty much the only recipes I do. And this one is definitely that with only 2 ingredients! I've made this tasty {& pretty healthy} fall treat with both chocolate cake mix & spice cake mix, & it's yummy either way! If you like more chocolate-y flavors, than I suggest trying a chocolate or devil's food cake mix. However, this go around I'm using a spice cake mix. I found the pumpkin flavors come through even more when you use this mix as opposed to a chocolate one.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhAIZAH94v5zHsiv94SUb9n6y8za4n4vFG17yKZdTPSeliRWn5JAFx2awXsp-wbTSMatOlcDBARh10L18DOpaXOhknLpmaQLWq3kQQZwod_-eGkSdO8WiGn6dqXtP2vNXRylum9Dd56FY/s1600/november+2019+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="846" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhAIZAH94v5zHsiv94SUb9n6y8za4n4vFG17yKZdTPSeliRWn5JAFx2awXsp-wbTSMatOlcDBARh10L18DOpaXOhknLpmaQLWq3kQQZwod_-eGkSdO8WiGn6dqXtP2vNXRylum9Dd56FY/s640/november+2019+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Here's what you need: a spice cake mix {or chocolate if you like} + a 15 oz. can of pure pumpkin {note: <i>NOT</i> pumpkin pie filling}. That's legitimately it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-F4hJ5pcVhoaHV6LVVBLRE3Za5damZb2UOj73kOVamWokfRzZF2pddKQSkN1WZwH897ktAMKY9SQZoY0KhzOYpBaJi6Jk9Si9RM2NgkXRFucRZj7DVPfp1wn8dll-r5Kva5zc0gVi0hw/s1600/november+2019+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="846" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-F4hJ5pcVhoaHV6LVVBLRE3Za5damZb2UOj73kOVamWokfRzZF2pddKQSkN1WZwH897ktAMKY9SQZoY0KhzOYpBaJi6Jk9Si9RM2NgkXRFucRZj7DVPfp1wn8dll-r5Kva5zc0gVi0hw/s640/november+2019+3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Preheat the oven to 325° F. Add muffin liners to your muffin tin or simply spray your bare muffin tin well with a non-stick baking spray. Add the cake mix powder & the pure canned pumpkin together in a large bowl & stir well {until you don't see any more cake mix powder}. Scoop the mixture into your muffin tin & bake for about 20 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the middle of some of your muffins to see if it comes out clean - if it does they should be done!<br />
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I hope you enjoy these easy-peasy pumpkin muffins with your family this season!<br />
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P.S.: The pumpkin makes them <i>so</i> moist! </div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-18587269717202855762019-11-05T19:29:00.001-05:002019-11-05T19:29:59.023-05:0033 Realizations from this 33 Year Old<div style="text-align: center;">
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Today's the day - my birthday. 33 years on this planet & here's a few things I know...<br />
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1. God sees you.<br />
2. He loves you more than you can fathom.<br />
3. He is sovereign & has good in store for us.<br />
4. He really does know best.<br />
5. His timing really is perfect.<br />
6. Drink more water. It is good for you, calorie free, & practically free.<br />
7. Exercise is worth it in so many ways.<br />
8. Start your day with prayer + keep it going<i> alll </i>day.<br />
9. Sometimes you just might need to watch a Disney movie.<br />
10. Eat more fiber.<br />
11. Eat more fruits + veggies.<br />
12. Comparison will always be an option in this world, but so is the ability to say <i>no</i> to it.<br />
13. Worry truly gets you nothing good + wastes your precious time.<br />
14. Don't forget all the prayers He's answered + all the things you have now that used to fill your prayer life.<br />
15. Practice gratitude in word + deed.<br />
16. Read your Bible for yourself - never take what others preach as gospel until you compare it to His Word.<br />
17. Figure out your gifts + talents {everybody has 'em}, then use 'em for the Lord.<br />
18. Always tithe what you've been blessed to earn.<br />
19. Laugh lots.<br />
20. If it's possible for you, get a good night's sleep as often as you can.<br />
21. Don't let the opportunities to speak kind, life-giving words to others slip by.<br />
22. Say "<i>I love you</i>" often to the people you love.<br />
23. Act out "<i>I love you</i>" often to the people you love.<br />
24. Don't take people + things + circumstances for granted - life is short & not too much is guaranteed.<br />
25. Try to make every day special.<br />
26. Sometimes you need to eat dessert first.<br />
27. Nature is free therapy - go get out in God's creation.<br />
28. Learn to laugh at yourself + don't sweat the small stuff.<br />
29. With Jesus you truly are forgiven + free - live like that.<br />
30. You are never alone.<br />
31. Thrift stores can be unexpected treasure troves.<br />
32. Put your phone down more - you'll find real life is out there happening & you could actually be a part of it!<br />
33. True beauty doesn't wash off or fade & is more valuable than the superficial stuff.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-5755355378611702462019-10-13T17:27:00.000-04:002019-10-13T17:27:48.395-04:00Transitioning Into Fall FashionThe in between of summer & fall can be tricky in the style department, especially if you live in a place where the temperatures say <i>heat wave</i> long into the autumn months. That's me right now in Georgia for sure! Here's a few tips to start dressing for fall without sweating it up!<br />
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Tip 1: Fall Colors in Warm Weather Styles</div>
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There are certain colors that just feel fall<i>ish</i>. Some of my current faves are shades of rusty burnt oranges, rich gem toned plums & dark teals, mustards, navys, and deep coral-y scarlets.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifdT2ELDGCjxRJ5QN9PjGSSwCOOOv9vEoyZS9gtY_OyhMz7w6KGjtQA3AOTF1ByQ9StsfyseP6wiBiX7GWXumm26AKchDgxcwxsP_-H7PyWDvUq9APj11qBVJHU_IHW5gEitTFplesJ2g/s1600/fall+fashion+2019+colors1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1143" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifdT2ELDGCjxRJ5QN9PjGSSwCOOOv9vEoyZS9gtY_OyhMz7w6KGjtQA3AOTF1ByQ9StsfyseP6wiBiX7GWXumm26AKchDgxcwxsP_-H7PyWDvUq9APj11qBVJHU_IHW5gEitTFplesJ2g/s640/fall+fashion+2019+colors1.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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<u><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Women-s-Short-Sleeve-Lettuce-Edge-T-Shirt-2-Pack/400801125?variantFieldId=actual_color" target="_blank">1.</a></u> // <u><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Time-and-Tru-Paperbag-Wide-Leg-Pant-Women-s/294459496" target="_blank">2.</a></u> // <u><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Time-and-Tru-Norah-Crossbody/263755901" target="_blank">3.</a></u></div>
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My jumpsuit is from A New Day via Goodwill for $2.99!</div>
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Tip 2: Plaid in Warm Weather Styles</div>
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In my opinion, nothing says classic fall like plaid. However, a tartan-esque sweater dress may not be on the bill right now. Thankfully, if you dig a little you can find loads of pretty autumn perfect plaid in more summery styles.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6mdorVBzJPnS_6ic9AqoSkp1tI9grk1Gvof_ykqsp0zqV6qtsUy57BgZW7SVJcoBaU32L7NcCR0p4lAQMbbd2nx98d6oK4guMgmihTukMwLt5PxY4EpTSTBX4RiMf9PGIJKYhgSThKcE/s1600/fall+fashion+2019+plaid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1143" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6mdorVBzJPnS_6ic9AqoSkp1tI9grk1Gvof_ykqsp0zqV6qtsUy57BgZW7SVJcoBaU32L7NcCR0p4lAQMbbd2nx98d6oK4guMgmihTukMwLt5PxY4EpTSTBX4RiMf9PGIJKYhgSThKcE/s640/fall+fashion+2019+plaid.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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<u><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Women-s-Ruffle-Sleeve-Tank-Top/208056831" target="_blank">1.</a></u> // <u><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Time-And-Tru-Plaid-Cap/457251869?selected=true" target="_blank">2.</a></u> // <u><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Time-and-Tru-Juliet-Backpack/845066157?variantFieldId=actual_color" target="_blank">3.</a></u></div>
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My top is Ann Taylor Loft via Clothes Mentor.</div>
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Tip 3: "Open" Style Boots</div>
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These are what I mean by "open" boots. Yes, they've got cutouts, bare heels, peep toes, & the like - all for allowing some extra breeze & air flow perfect for transitioning into the season.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-97oSitG2urlxpc2L_6Hf_TGoQtZuie6hCMkek8g2KHm9vtsalqbNz2y0YHM8kwROzlyAIg_Q0KTA7cHspJFh2YrebhwZenJb3FcwB7hl9DJnmSQVP8NrC14FArUdLf8FYJa4BQFykU/s1600/fall+style+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1143" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-97oSitG2urlxpc2L_6Hf_TGoQtZuie6hCMkek8g2KHm9vtsalqbNz2y0YHM8kwROzlyAIg_Q0KTA7cHspJFh2YrebhwZenJb3FcwB7hl9DJnmSQVP8NrC14FArUdLf8FYJa4BQFykU/s640/fall+style+5.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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<u><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Womens-Time-And-Tru-Peep-Toe-Ww/529164967" target="_blank">1.</a></u> // <u><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Women-s-Time-and-Tru-Peep-Toe-Lace-Up-Booties/372968618" target="_blank">2.</a></u> // <u><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Womens-Time-And-Tru-Open-Shank/603268877" target="_blank">3.</a></u> // <u><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Womens-Time-and-Tru-Wide-Width-Peep-Toe-Buckle-Booties/173285018" target="_blank">4.</a></u></div>
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P.S.: Here's a link to my Pinterest <u><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/girlfive/style-file/" target="_blank">style board</a></u> - it's not all fall fashion, but a lot of my recent pins are!</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-31235977680569069962019-09-23T20:05:00.001-04:002019-09-23T20:14:19.830-04:00Decorating for Fall {Ideas & Inspo to Make Your Place Cozy + Fallish}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZ9y_LYnTk8Ofjm_rqqK1S9-uDlrU4g6gzJeWGcAKkEe6TZXxjbGEB9a3GyvQ4nuwZBtKAmkAAZTwvbrGBkMfae5oN1k1Sp6FBoDpgYTUi41U-1ijxKflO7ncYvRgg6_jRuUwdB6P5Ys/s1600/fall+house+2019c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1117" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZ9y_LYnTk8Ofjm_rqqK1S9-uDlrU4g6gzJeWGcAKkEe6TZXxjbGEB9a3GyvQ4nuwZBtKAmkAAZTwvbrGBkMfae5oN1k1Sp6FBoDpgYTUi41U-1ijxKflO7ncYvRgg6_jRuUwdB6P5Ys/s640/fall+house+2019c.jpg" width="446" /></a></div>
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Ever since my 1st little solo apartment back in the day I've loved decorating for every season + every holiday. It's just part of my DNA, I guess. Fall, which just happens to be my most favorite season, is definitely no exception.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrTHRD4ExG9qefDD7sGhuUuhuO0xRP484FX1r7lWNCTYBP1O_KtWOqFBaowbqr3-S6liEqhow6l2AsCoct0eeq-g2E54RFo1RtmDw2WoCwEqG1iY4xudxcQ3JAunYGU4b0LPA5jZwwMg/s1600/border+between.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="100" data-original-width="760" height="52" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrTHRD4ExG9qefDD7sGhuUuhuO0xRP484FX1r7lWNCTYBP1O_KtWOqFBaowbqr3-S6liEqhow6l2AsCoct0eeq-g2E54RFo1RtmDw2WoCwEqG1iY4xudxcQ3JAunYGU4b0LPA5jZwwMg/s400/border+between.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If I could sum up fall in just one word it would be <i>cozy</i>. There's a crispness you can feel as the weather turns hints of chilly. Bonfires, hayrides, corn mazes, and all manner of get-togethers bring us closer to one another & keep our spirits toasty warm. Soft worn flannels, chunky knit sweaters, & sleek leather boots make their comeback to our closet space. Coziness in every sense of the word seems to reign supreme!</div>
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I want my home to be like that - a haven of cozy - year round, but none more so as when September rolls around bringing with it sweet ole' autumn &, riding on its coattails, the promise of winter & Christmas & merry anything & everything.</div>
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Here are just a few ideas that I use to make my home cozy + ready for fall! I hope you find some inspiration for your place, too!</div>
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This blanket ladder from Dan is one of my all time favorite birthday gifts from him {even if I did pick it out & he just paid the tab}! We got it at a local artisan/antique market for around $30, & while it's not old in the least, I love the extra wide rungs and wood stain {& the price was pretty darn good, too}. Fall is the perfect time to pull out your blankets + keep them handy - whether in an over-sized basket, casually draped over a couch, or on a blanket ladder like this one.</div>
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Twinkle lights always amp up the cozy factor in my opinion. These are from Target's Dollar Spot several years ago, but they always seem to have a current version or two each season around the $3 price point; so be sure to check your local store. </div>
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You can flip this little metal <u><a href="https://www.target.com/p/reversible-sign-let-s-go-out-let-s-stay-in-cream-hearth-hand-153-with-magnolia/-/A-54172256?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&fndsrc=tgtao&CPNG=PLA_Home%2BDecor%2BShopping_Brand&adgroup=SC_Home%2BDecor&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9011443&gclid=Cj0KCQjwt5zsBRD8ARIsAJfI4BhZWMjZwwK0mR3S7ESf1hwg2lXFmEN9JHipsRz-lYaosCHmtft-5ccaAqRiEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">sign</a></u> from Target's Hearth & Hand by Magnolia collection to say either "Let's Stay In" or "Let's Go Out." I'm channeling my inner Joanna Gaines & thinking she would say be a homebody. This is the perfect time of year to stay in your fixer-upper + be cozy! A trio of vintage Nancy Drew mysteries fit nicely between the legs of our lamp just waiting to be read some spooky evening. The little faux black pumpkin was a super easy upcycle with a bit of matte black craft paint + chalk.</div>
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You'll spy quite a few of these small felted <u><a href="https://www.target.com/p/8pk-felt-pumpkins-bullseye-39-s-playground-8482/-/A-54570567" target="_blank">pumpkins/gourds</a></u> scattered about my place this autumn! I snagged them at Target's Dollar Spot earlier in the month. They were only a dollar a piece! Faux or real, pumpkins are always a good idea!</div>
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While our apartment doesn't boast a mantelpiece, I've tried to work around that a bit by adding a couple floating shelves next to our wall mounted TV. These are one of my favorite places to decorate each season. The gold leaf {on the wall}, blue glass bottle, & rattan keepsake box are all thrifted {though I know the 1st 2 items originally came from Target}. The velvety pumpkin is from Walmart a year or 2 ago & the sprig of faux <u><a href="https://www.target.com/p/8pk-wheat-picks-bullseye-s-playground-153/-/A-54595962" target="_blank">wheat</a></u> was $1 from this year's Target Dollar Spot!</div>
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I saw this quote floating around the Internet a couple years ago & turned it into a Word document + printed it out. It's super simple, but it's one of my favorite things to bring out each fall - sometimes it ends up in a frame, sometimes it just finds a place on a miniature easel, or gets hung up with a bit of washi tape.</div>
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I made this glowing-eyed black cat last year {read more on that <u><a href="https://thewildflowerjournals.blogspot.com/2018/09/dollar-store-upcycle-spooky-cat.html" target="_blank">here</a></u>}, as well as the bunting.</div>
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While this isn't strictly a fall thing {I have it up year round with different knickknacks}, this bamboo steamer I turned into a mini shelf adds a bit of texture to a wall space, which in turn adds coziness. I love to hang unexpected things on walls. I have several bamboo steamer shelves, art hung from wooden pant hangers, woven art wall hangings, a little feathery white owl on a perch, & some antique-looking keys to name a few.</div>
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I keep it pretty minimal in the kitchen - the extent of it being a pair of white ceramic squirrels {again from Target's Dollar Spot a few years ago}, black & white striped straws in a jar by our coffee/drink station, + my chalkboard sign I update every season {or whenever I feel the whim}. Never underestimate the power of smell when making your home autumn ready! Whether it's a scented candle, a plug-in, a spray, whatever - just make it something you love that makes you feel in the fall spirit.</div>
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I don't know if you're like me in this, but it takes awhile for me to be completely "finished" decorating for a new season {if I even ever get there}. It will likely morph & change as the holidays differ & the days get deeper into the heart of my most favorite season {&, let's be honest, I go shopping or thrifting again or DIY something new}, but I've got a start that I'm happy with {or can change pretty easily if I change my mind}. This cozy making decor stuff is definitely an ongoing process! Give yourself grace, sister. Ain't none of us down here in the business of perfection & some things in our homes are beyond our mortal control. Love what you got + make it your own. A big budget is not necessary for coziness, my friend - & I just may be the most frugal of all.</div>
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What are some tips + tricks you use to make your place cozy & ready for fall?</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-63732307961189122642019-09-15T22:44:00.002-04:002019-09-15T22:44:58.334-04:00Year 3 in 100 Pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840612689310648244.post-80885771574193627992019-09-12T18:48:00.000-04:002019-09-12T18:50:58.454-04:00Our Wedding Video<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/feXfYFSHRVI" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
This September marks 3 years of love for me & my husband Dan. In some ways it feels longer & in some ways it seems like just yesterday. I thought I'd share our little wedding video for you today. No, I didn't splurge on a fancy videographer or even photographer for our day, but I think the sweet little shaky blurry film captured by family turned into the perfect memory for us. Oh, & keep an eye out for my favorite part at the beginning, where God sends a butterfly our way! {We saw quite a few that day actually.}<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">❤</span><br />
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Happy anniversary, Dan! You are my love forever!</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05122206120740922608noreply@blogger.com0