tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28905359832262578822021-10-04T20:14:41.600-05:00Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]Blogger1202125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-70816235052836683912021-01-19T08:00:00.:002021-01-19T08:00:05.473-06:00I mentioned yesterday that last week took on a different role for Avery, and myself.&nbsp;<div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">January 13th, a day I will remember for a long time. The two days leading up to that day were a whirlwind, and an emotional rollercoaster to say the least.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp; </span><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Avery has been asking to go to "big" school since the middle of October. But, due to her illness back at the end of June we chose to keep her home and safe.</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp;</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Since Christmas break, and especially the beginning of last week, it was becoming very clear that she was needing a change. And, this change would break my heart. So last week we submitted her paperwork for public school. She went on a tour with her counselor for 1st grade, without me. Without me, because due to covid, parents aren't allowed in the building. I cried the entire time. She came back to the vehicle smiling and so excited to tell me all about her new school. And before we made it back home, I received the call that she had been enrolled, and could start the following day. The lady on the phone gave me a little info to get us started, and gave me her teachers name.</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp;</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I immediately came home to check the teacher list to see and read who would be taking on the roll as her new teacher. More tears fell, but this time it was tears of JOY. Y'all her teacher could not be more perfect for her and our family. And I'm certain Avery will love her.</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Her teacher was out last week, but Avery insisted she wanted to go ahead and&nbsp;</span>start so<span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp;she could meet her new classmates. Lenley and I&nbsp;</span>dropped<span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp;her off in the car rider line and before we left the school Len said, "mom I miss Avery" and little did she know, I was crying too!&nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gdwyBYfKXhI/YAXYJtjdRZI/AAAAAAAAPik/nqapqo8MuRkxK2DTRHQlRGyosUD8DYORQCLcBGAsYHQ/image0.heic" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1662" data-original-width="1247" height="400" src="/-gdwyBYfKXhI/YAXYJtjdRZI/AAAAAAAAPik/nqapqo8MuRkxK2DTRHQlRGyosUD8DYORQCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/image0.webp" width="300" /></a></div>That first day I got an email from her teacher with the cutest, and biggest smile I've ever seen on her face. Well, the only other time was when she met Rosie for the first time. So all the tears, all the worry, all the stress... it just kinda melted away with this one picture. When I picked her up her exact words were, "this was the best day ever!"</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">She was very excited to go back to school the next day, and that day had some emotional moments for her. Her school day is now 7 hrs and not the 3.5 we were doing at home every weekday. Her day starts earlier, as in she was used to getting up at 7:45, not being in her class ready to work by that time.&nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some things however have&nbsp;</span>improved<span style="font-family: inherit;">. One, Terry is home when we have to get up and he helps get the girls up and moving. I'm not a morning person, he is, and that's made a big difference for the girls, and me. Avery is loving the interactions with her classmates, and has even shown an interest in eating from the&nbsp;</span>cafeteria. She said her favorite day will be mozzarella stick day.</div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lenley is not a fan of the afternoon car rider line. But I&nbsp;</span>figured<span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp;out Friday that she could bring their Switch in the car, so that made the time go by a little faster for her. It also kept her from talking my ears off.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">All of the events of last week were a <b>HUGE</b> change for all of us. I'm hoping the routine will set in soon and it will become second nature to us all. I'm most excited about hearing how her first day with her teacher is. We watched her&nbsp;</span>welcome video and Avery is really happy she is in her class. We've also been working with her this weekend to get her used to some of the work they are doing in class. Common core will be a learning curve for all of us. Hopefully we will all adjust and catch on quickly.</div><div><br /></div><div>Prayers for another good week. Prayers to keep her healthy and safe. Prayers for an easy adjustment in our daily schedules. And prayers for this mama who is no longer in control.</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/BmJi195MSzQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]25http://www.sowelllife.com/2021/01/from-homeschool-to-public-school.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-616120783257053902021-01-18T11:25:00.:002021-01-18T11:26:40.226-06:00This weekend was supposed to go differently than it did, but that's okay. Avery was excited to go to my parent's house, and at the last minute she decided to not go. I truly think all the changes of last week with starting a new school, a different routine, and not being with me 24/7 had her wanting her mama. More on that later...<div><br /></div><div><b>Friday evening</b> we ordered pizza and chilled. The week was emotional, and we were all exhausted. We stayed up an hour later and called it a night.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hnf3ViJCBWg/YAXC6hFT2SI/AAAAAAAAPiM/nsTfLwpOlMAjVP_YiOwTXLounId-ceihQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_8440.heic" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="/-Hnf3ViJCBWg/YAXC6hFT2SI/AAAAAAAAPiM/nsTfLwpOlMAjVP_YiOwTXLounId-ceihQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_8440.webp" width="320" /></a></div><b>Saturday morning</b> Terry and the girls let me sleep in. It was needed and felt great. I think the only reason they woke me up at 9 was because they wanted cinnamon rolls, and daddy didn't know how to make them. We spent the morning snuggling and having tickle fights before getting ready for one of their friends birthday drive by.</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Saturday afternoon</b> was full of sugar and sweets from Brayden's birthday. They had fun seeing him, and getting all the sugar. They got to ride in their daddy's work SUV for the drive by, and I'm pretty sure that made their day. We spent that evening grilling and hanging out in the living room. Not to mention we let them "wing it" and that's always a treat for them. (<i>Wing it means a wipe down, and not a bath or shower.</i>)</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FtuNUK9vLGA/YAXCvLLDiZI/AAAAAAAAPiE/ona9dIW4ijEnplaL1oxCgdASwbIR2v_ewCLcBGAsYHQ/IMG_8464.heic" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1932" data-original-width="1449" height="320" src="/-FtuNUK9vLGA/YAXCvLLDiZI/AAAAAAAAPiE/ona9dIW4ijEnplaL1oxCgdASwbIR2v_ewCLcBGAsYHQ/w240-h320/IMG_8464.webp" width="240" /></a></div><b>Sunday morning</b> we used the hot chocolate bombs that we got from Brayden's party and holy moly they were good. The girls thought it was fun to see the marshmallows pop out, and to have green hot chocolate. Once the girls got settled playing, I tuned in to a church service back in Mississippi. I didn't make it through the first five minutes without crying. The pastor's wife passed away at a very young age from complications of covid the day before, and the entire congregation and worship leaders — you could just see it on their faces. The sadness, the hurt, the emptiness they felt, it was there and hard to see. I still see the joy on her face that I always saw when I saw pictures of her, and that's what brings me comfort — knowing she is showing that smile in the presence of Our Lord and Savior.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sunday afternoon and evening</b> was spent with some friends at their house for a cookout. Sometimes you just need a minute with adults and to let the kiddos play. It was nice to relax and have some laughs. After the heaviness of the week, and weekend, it was needed. And let's not forget all the food, it was delicious. I think if I always have the choice of what to have for a meal, it's finger foods and dips, and appetizers. A variety of yummy food always makes for a happy and content mama.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-7oKZgcpJun4/YAXDJLhLCCI/AAAAAAAAPiU/fAo6tu8CPy009Tw5aFOFnMNGwipWCArxACLcBGAsYHQ/IMG_8468.webp" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="240" src="/-7oKZgcpJun4/YAXDJLhLCCI/AAAAAAAAPiU/fAo6tu8CPy009Tw5aFOFnMNGwipWCArxACLcBGAsYHQ/IMG_8468.webp" width="240" /></a></div>And here it is <b>Monday morning</b>... there is no school today. Avery was up at 6:45 ready for the day. (<i>Who wants to place bets on if she does this tomorrow morning?</i>) She stood by the window waiting to see if any friends were coming out to play. Lenley was like me, still in pjs and just wanting to sleep some more. Now their friends are here playing, and it's giving me a moment to catch up on laundry, some organizing, and well, writing.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tomorrow</b> starts Avery's 4th day at her new school. She also meets her new teacher tomorrow morning. While last week had it challenges, I'm sure more challenges will come. I'm just thankful for my tribe who keep me sane and uplifted. I'm pretty sure I wouldn't have made it last week without them.<br /><br /> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<p><br /></p></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/ExCN2NltToM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]1http://www.sowelllife.com/2021/01/weekend-update.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-63010587862661866382021-01-03T11:00:00.:002021-01-03T15:54:23.686-06:002020 will be known for most who were at home as the year of home projects. If you drove by a Lowes or Home Depot, those parking lots were full of vehicles just waiting to be filled with the items needed for the projects at home.<div><br /></div><div>We really didn't do any major projects. Terry cleaned out the garage, we tried to organize a few things, but really it was mainly just two parents trying to survive with two little girls who wanted to constantly be doing something—usually outside.</div><div><br /></div><div>I got a gift card to amazon for Christmas, one of my favorite places to order something and have it arrive fast. And I decided to get a few things to help organize the refrigerator, weirdly enough. I'm a Coke Zero kinda girl. When others say they have to have their coffee first thing in the morning, well, don't talk to me until I've had a few sips of my Coke Zero. Seriously. The outcome is much better with it in my system than without.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-TQxA1gHi6Lg/X_H11RxCn6I/AAAAAAAAPhk/Bqval-aq8nwxW8nkz6bHWuTsalgyxNAWQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1500/71JiV3P6pvL._AC_SL1500_.webp" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1004" data-original-width="1500" src="/-TQxA1gHi6Lg/X_H11RxCn6I/AAAAAAAAPhk/Bqval-aq8nwxW8nkz6bHWuTsalgyxNAWQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/71JiV3P6pvL._AC_SL1500_.webp" width="320" /></a></div>I have a running list of things I would like to purchase on Amazon. Did you know you could do that? You can even share it with people when they ask what you'd like for your birthday, Christmas, etc. So I started adding some organization things back in December, and took the plunge at the end of the year to we can get a few things organized. And to kick things off we started with the fridge.</div><div><br /></div><div>This plastic <a href="https://amzn.to/2KWq6FI" target="_blank">turntable</a> is perfect for all Terry's different pickles, and salsas. I purchased two, but so far we have only put one into place. I'm kinda thinking I might us the second one in our master bathroom for under the sink for some organization there.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-EgSblTeiPso/X_H18Uv7XiI/AAAAAAAAPho/nYoiuNBjTRMHEbhbMtxC6gfhGir_XgYxwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1500/81oN54MvkLL._AC_SL1500_.webp" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1363" data-original-width="1500" src="/-EgSblTeiPso/X_H18Uv7XiI/AAAAAAAAPho/nYoiuNBjTRMHEbhbMtxC6gfhGir_XgYxwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/81oN54MvkLL._AC_SL1500_.webp" width="320" /></a></div>And to get rid of twelve pack boxes in the fridge, I got these can <a href="https://amzn.to/3hLnzKA" target="_blank">organizers</a>. It came as a four pack, so we have two in our main fridge and two in the fridge downstairs. Just makes it a lot cleaner to look at in the fridge in my opinion.</div><div><br /></div><div>Trust me, we have plenty of other things to organize in this house, but I feel like that's a good start. I have two more of those turntables in my cart now because I'm thinking I might use one in the spice cabinet, because it's a mess. And maybe one in the pantry. Oh, and the can organizer would be good in the pantry too, to get those green bean, cream of chicken and rotel cans from taking up so much room.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>I'll holla at y'all later... just gave myself some more ideas for organizing. I'm pretty sure Terry will be flipping out in a second.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy New Year, y'all! And happy organizing!&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div><p><br /></p></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/TX6IMmz7QpE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]0http://www.sowelllife.com/2021/01/organizing-chaos.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-71793195133603619812020-03-27T11:00:00.:002020-03-27T11:35:17.375-05:00I cried last night. It's been awhile since I've shed that many tears. Last night's tears were not for me, but for my babies. Yesterday in a news conference, it was announced that schools would remain closed for the rest of the year. Something about online learning, blah, blah, blah — I stopped listening after I heard remain closed.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-_uGbP6VUGqQ/Xn4fcQcV03I/AAAAAAAAPdg/QsBE8OZQgiYNT18NGFRXc1hQAbE-ecV2wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_3011.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="/-_uGbP6VUGqQ/Xn4fcQcV03I/AAAAAAAAPdg/QsBE8OZQgiYNT18NGFRXc1hQAbE-ecV2wCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_3011.webp" width="360" /></a></div>While I don't have a senior in high school, and honestly I can't imagine how they are feeling right now, I have a kindergartener and I feel like her first lasts were robbed from her. She doesn't know we aren't going back to school, yet. I also didn't let myself breakdown until all were in bed asleep. No need for them to see me cry when I'm sure they won't understand, and probably won't until they are much older.<br /><br />You see Avery's class, well, I'd say 90% of them, have been together since starting at Westwood. Next year we all go our own direction — some repeating at public school due to birth dates, and some moving on to 1st grade. This bond they've had will be broken. And I thought I had two more months to prepare for this. All of us moms have always joked at the end of the year programs that we ball like little babies for the graduating class, and last year it set in that next year it would be our babies. We've been told we will still have a graduation, but it won't be the same.<br /><br />This was Avery's first real year of school. And we have been blessed with so many wonderful teachers at our preschool, but Mrs. Kim holds a special place in our hearts. To see how far Avery has come in this school year is mind blowing. She LOVES school. And I consider that a gift passed down from Mrs. Kim. She will continue to send us lesson plans daily for us to teach our kids at home, but I'd give anything for Avery to be back in her class learning with her friends.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-Wf3GFWEqW20/Xn4fcbajylI/AAAAAAAAPdk/8K9w5DDELdUMW71NOpV5r5vgc-QgDOCzgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_3012.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="/-Wf3GFWEqW20/Xn4fcbajylI/AAAAAAAAPdk/8K9w5DDELdUMW71NOpV5r5vgc-QgDOCzgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_3012.webp" width="360" /></a></div>I know this is for the health and safety of our kids, but it doesn't seem real. As Mrs. Kim said last night, it feels like a TV show and we are watching it all unfold. I just wish it wasn't our reality. Our family is blessed beyond all measures that Lenley will be in Mrs. Kim's class next year. That is one little bit of hope I'm holding on to. I know she will be in great hands with her, and thankful that over 50% of her friends that she's been with will be back with her next year. We've had Mrs. Shannon for the past three years, twice with Avery in 3K &amp; 4K, and Len with 4K. So it doesn't seem right that I won't be dropping a kid off in her class next year. Over those past three years Mrs. Shannon and I developed a great friendship and I'm so thankful for that!<br /><br />As for Avery, we aren't sure what lies ahead for 1st grade. Is she ready? Absolutely. It doesn't matter if school is over for the year or she had another two months, Mrs. Kim has her prepared and I'm so thankful for that. The problem is — we aren't sure where she is going. We have options, but those options don't feel right. You know that mom gut feeling, well, that's what I have. We've had meetings with the church executive team and other parents who are praying and pushing for a 1st grade to be started at Westwood. All efforts and hearts seem like this is the right direction for our kids, especially Avery. For the first time all year, I had a peace about where she would attend school next year. Right now, I'm still not 100% sure 1st grade will happen. The last meeting was two days before quarantine. But my prayer remains, that our church will help us make it happen for the 20-21 school year.<br /><br />I'm sure I'll still shed some tears over the next few months about this. And I know I'm not the only one going through this. So hang in there. Whether you are a parent or a student, we all feel your heartache. And for our precious teachers, know how much we love you. We know your year with our babies was cut short, and it wasn't to your liking either. Our kindergarten class will always be a family. And as soon as this quarantine and virus is at bay, we are going to party with our babies and give all the hugs — yeah, and probably cry some, too. &nbsp; <br /><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/DMtNuZ13BEE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]3http://www.sowelllife.com/2020/03/confession.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-10075231330908364322020-03-26T10:00:00.:002020-03-26T10:00:00.976-05:00<h2>&nbsp;<span style="font-family: MicrosoftSansSerif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold;">When quarantine is over I can’t wait to...</span></h2><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span class="s2">eat chips with cheese dip and drink the biggest glass of sweet tea. Those Mexican restaurants really know how to make some amazing sweet tea.&nbsp;</span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><a href="/-_jb7WS8TEGM/XnzCgSU-vrI/AAAAAAAAPco/6NeIujMWAlcvmQa1R1d7Ofnd2rT6ilEKQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/BFB28857-2BC6-4BFA-B098-A61EC3A7A3BF.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1472" data-original-width="828" height="640" src="/-_jb7WS8TEGM/XnzCgSU-vrI/AAAAAAAAPco/6NeIujMWAlcvmQa1R1d7Ofnd2rT6ilEKQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/BFB28857-2BC6-4BFA-B098-A61EC3A7A3BF.webp" width="360" /></a><span class="s2">enjoy friends and family time! FaceTime, zoom, phone calls... they’re all nice to have, but I really miss hugs and company.&nbsp;</span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span class="s2">take a trip somewhere, anywhere! Beach, mountains, state park, heck I’ll even settle for a hotel suite here in town. I just want a different scene.&nbsp;</span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span class="s2">celebrate our eight year anniversary. I was sick on the day of our anniversary and then quarantine happened the next day.&nbsp;</span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span class="s2">take the kids to the zoo, water park, we’ll even settle for a lunch at our favorite McAlisters at this point.&nbsp;</span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span class="s2">see my little three year old friends at church. I’ve missed their funny stories and hugs.&nbsp;</span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span class="s2">see how our city, state and country grows from this.&nbsp;</span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span class="s2">tell any and everyone I know in healthcare what a rockstar they really are.&nbsp;</span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span class="s2">go through the Chick-fil-a drive through for my favorite ice water on the planet!</span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span class="s2">take the family to an ice cream shoppe and get a brain freeze!</span></blockquote><br /><br /><div class="p2" style="font-family: MicrosoftSansSerif; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s2"></span></div><div class="p2" style="font-family: MicrosoftSansSerif; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s2"></span></div><div class="p2" style="font-family: MicrosoftSansSerif; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s2"></span></div><div class="p2" style="font-family: MicrosoftSansSerif; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s2"></span></div><div class="p2" style="font-family: MicrosoftSansSerif; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s2"></span></div><div class="p2" style="font-family: MicrosoftSansSerif; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s2"></span></div><div class="p2" style="font-family: MicrosoftSansSerif; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s2"></span></div><div class="p2" style="font-family: MicrosoftSansSerif; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s2"></span></div><div class="p2" style="font-family: MicrosoftSansSerif; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;"><span class="s2"></span></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/R4pi0L6UrsE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]3http://www.sowelllife.com/2020/03/my-how-my-bucket-list-has-changed.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-11321863185884580932020-03-24T17:00:00.:002020-03-24T20:20:12.420-05:00Just like many of you, our days and weeks for the past ten days have been interesting to say the least. The virus known as COVID-19 changed our daily lives, especially the lives of our children.<br /><br />In two weeks the girls have gone from attending one of the best preschools in the state, to being homeschooled by, <i>well</i>, me. Ask all my friends, I've always said that I was not meant to be a homeschool mom. However, I've always said I'd never say never. <i>(I learned that I long time ago because we've eaten our words thousands of times!)</i><br /><br />One of my girls is in kindergarten and the other is in 4K. Their brains are little sponges right now, and honestly I just want to keep some normalcy in our lives. So we are having school every morning. Technically this week was supposed to be Spring break for them. It was going to be my Spring break, too. They were going to my parent's house and farm to have some fun, and I was going to get a much need break so I could spring clean, etc. But, alas, the COVID-19 quarantine happened.<br /><br />We are still having a few minutes of school every morning. I'm talking thirty minutes to an hour. And this week we are taking time to go over things they've already learned this year. I honestly just want some routine for them, and me. We haven't been enforcing bedtime, and we do sleep in. I feel like we need it to keep our bodies well. So we make sure we are getting at least ten/eleven hours of sleep. I say we, but that does not include Terry. He is still going to work daily.<br /><br /><a href="/-wTTgtn6M6Wg/XnqB4iq_bgI/AAAAAAAAPcQ/6UzVANGyFAkGcyRJuLgPI46hULWrDA5ugCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2970.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="/-wTTgtn6M6Wg/XnqB4iq_bgI/AAAAAAAAPcQ/6UzVANGyFAkGcyRJuLgPI46hULWrDA5ugCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2970.webp" width="360" /></a>Avery has absolutely loved her kindergarten year with her friends and her amazing teacher, Mrs. Kim. She has taught my baby more than I could ever dream she would learn in such a small time. And I'm still hopeful we will get to go back to finish out the year, though I have my doubts just like many of you. I'm so thankful for her teacher sending out worksheets for us to print so we can keep on learning. Avery loves that what I have her working on is worksheets and pages that she would normally see at school. She wanted to keep her routine of having a snack after her first morning worksheet, and I let them listen to <a href="https://www.storylineonline.net/books/harry-the-dirty-dog/?fbclid=IwAR0LUmEDpEjtCYNJBhuo_mxmfwqMzpRLjTwD8TZpaDICubDWzSfL_5RXEAs" target="_blank">Storyline Online</a> while they enjoy their snack. Lenley is not really liking "<i>playing schoo</i>l" with mommy. She has a different love language than her sister, and honestly, I think this new routine is not her style. But, each day is getting a little better. I'm trying to figure out ways to keep her interested, and usually that doesn't mean giving her busy work. She likes to be engaged with me learning.<br /><br />So these these days look a lot different than they did weeks ago. I can now add homeschool mom/teacher to my long list of duties being their mom. How long will we continue on this path, I'm not sure. I can say that God has definitely showed me that something that I thought I could "<i>never</i>" do, I can. His way is always best, and we will just have to trust Him and trust this process.<br /><br />I ask that you pray for all of us parents and kiddos. Not only are we doing things we never thought we would be doing, but we are together 24/7. I'm sure other kids are like mine and missing their friends, teachers, playdates, extra curricular activities like dance and sports, and many other things. It's been ten days and nerves are shot — not just from being with each other every waking minute, but hearing news and health reports, too.<br /><br />I'll leave you with this...<br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."</blockquote><br />&nbsp; <img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/m_EDVNKforM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]1http://www.sowelllife.com/2020/03/homeschool-mom.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-38279242730953300972018-06-12T15:15:00.:002018-06-12T15:15:09.331-05:00Just some of my ramblings on this Tuesday... things I want to look back and remember.<br /><br />1— <b>48 hrs without a phone</b> is something I never want to have happen again. My phone that was less than a year old completely died Saturday evening. I'm talking it wasn't even the battery, just a hardware issue and there was no fixing it. Of course this would happen when we are out of town, and in the most inconvenient time. It also happened on the very last day of it's warranty. Coincidence? I think not. Being without my phone was hard. Not because of social media, but it's really the only way I can communicate with anyone since we do not have a home phone. It's crazy how I've (we've) become dependent on a cell phone in the past ten years. So after almost two hours at the Apple store, I now have a new phone. And thank goodness for iCloud, because everything was restored and I didn't lose not a video, picture or text. Also, thankful for friends who let you drop your girls off at their house so you don't have to say "DON'T TOUCH THAT" 500 times in the store. I couldn't be happier to have access to the world again.<br /><br /><a href="/-SQnVJMT2YFc/WyAnKedsvLI/AAAAAAAAPYs/jg8mQRfllcsmYVNEgwQ0tZILWMMWLLkKACLcBGAs/s1600/collage.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-SQnVJMT2YFc/WyAnKedsvLI/AAAAAAAAPYs/jg8mQRfllcsmYVNEgwQ0tZILWMMWLLkKACLcBGAs/s400/collage.webp" width="266" /></a>2 — <b>Ganny and Papa summer camp</b> happened last week. This is the second time we've let them go without us to their house. Both times they've had a ball. Of course, they stayed busy going to the pool, splash pad, MAEX, and playing outside. Plus, I think all the clothes I sent stayed cleaned because they lived in their Cinderella and Snow White princess dresses all week... when they weren't in their swimsuits, of course.<br /><br />3 — <b>No more diapers</b> for Lenny! Which means no more diapers in the house! Can I get a Hallelujah? Can I get an Amen? We've known she was getting ready for the past few months, and the week before they went to Ganny and Papas house I started letting her wear panties. Well, two weeks later and she's done with the diapers. And doing really good. We've only seen a few accidents, and those are few and far between. Another season is over and it just shows us how quickly these girls are growing up. Which is exciting and sad all at the same time. &nbsp; <br /><br />4 — <b>Date your spouse</b> has always been a phrase I've seen or heard, but we really took it heart and applied it last week while the girls were at Ganny and Papas. Four straight nights of dates for us, which might be more than we've had since Avery was born. It was so nice to be able to enjoy time with just the two of us. Did we miss the girls, of course we did. But we've also missed time with just the two of us alone. We cooked together and watched a movie at home, went out to eat and saw a movie in the theater, ordered take out and watched another movie at home, and then finished up our week of dates with a dinner date. While we know it seems like a long time before we will be empty nesters, we also know that it will happened sooner than later and we want to make sure we know how to be alone together and enjoy our time together now and when that time comes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-vcluO5etZVI/WyAnZ9jU2iI/AAAAAAAAPY0/h06KSgqlGG4x2YpRo7W2EPAuD0wwVwAcQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9481.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1203" height="320" src="/-vcluO5etZVI/WyAnZ9jU2iI/AAAAAAAAPY0/h06KSgqlGG4x2YpRo7W2EPAuD0wwVwAcQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_9481.webp" width="240" /></a><a href="/-sUH9_EatBBc/WyAnZ3AKNXI/AAAAAAAAPYw/hzrEIyN_FPMweCkFkhTfnfeUpDGKP22mgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9528.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1203" height="320" src="/-sUH9_EatBBc/WyAnZ3AKNXI/AAAAAAAAPYw/hzrEIyN_FPMweCkFkhTfnfeUpDGKP22mgCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_9528.webp" width="240" /></a></div><br />5 — <b>Summer days</b> are here. I'm talking the sticky hot humid days of Alabama summer. If I had to sum up a word for summer, I'd replace it with S W E A T. In other words, sweat season is here. And I don't like it. I wasn't one of those who complained when it was in the 20s and 30s this past winter. Nope, I was the one loving every minute of it. The only thing that makes summer bearable is pool days. Maybe it's because we can't tell if it's sweat or water from the pool. HA! So if you are looking for us this summer, just head to our neighborhood pool. That's where you'll find us!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-0z15qjJRYKM/WyAnhrucrdI/AAAAAAAAPY8/PbV803sGptkzH7i2zrHze0THaJUW-xFDgCLcBGAs/s1600/collage1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="/-0z15qjJRYKM/WyAnhrucrdI/AAAAAAAAPY8/PbV803sGptkzH7i2zrHze0THaJUW-xFDgCLcBGAs/s400/collage1.webp" width="400" /></a></div><br /><img align="left" src="/albums/af319/laralheis/822356f7.webp" style="border: 0px;" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/M4OwbQAPwp4" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]3http://www.sowelllife.com/2018/06/tuesday-thoughts.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-63035112874921718322018-05-12T08:30:00.:002018-05-12T08:30:24.764-05:00<div style="line-height: normal;"><a href="/-J64ykE3ZvBA/WvbqW1qDqJI/AAAAAAAAPXg/km1d-0UYcg8iGB4e_brTyWL6Jiuuns9SQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8740.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-J64ykE3ZvBA/WvbqW1qDqJI/AAAAAAAAPXg/km1d-0UYcg8iGB4e_brTyWL6Jiuuns9SQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_8740.webp" width="266" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">As a little girl a long, long time ago I would play with my baby dolls and pretend I was their mother. As a teenager (<i>only a few years ago, wink</i>) I would babysit babies and children from our church. I learned changing poopy diapers was, well gross and that kids have a mine of their own and can’t always be easily persuaded to watch something other than cartoons on tv. As a young adult I watched friends get married and have children of their own. I treated their children like they were my own, spoiling them and loving them. As a thirty something year old wife, I lost our first child at eleven weeks. After months of trying after our loss, I wondered if I would ever have a child of my own. I prayed and begged God to give me a second chance at being a mom.&nbsp;</span></div><div style="line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Then one day I had a feeling I needed to take a test so I took two. Both were positive. The only thing I could do was cry and shout praises and thanks because I knew it was God who had blessed us with the hope another child. A child we both knew we longed for and already loved.&nbsp;</span></div><div style="line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><a href="/-1hxrN8VTXQo/WvbqW7Qxw7I/AAAAAAAAPXo/QsnEa7BolPYiIUVczR2iC-kP0Qpqvk9hACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8741.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-1hxrN8VTXQo/WvbqW7Qxw7I/AAAAAAAAPXo/QsnEa7BolPYiIUVczR2iC-kP0Qpqvk9hACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_8741.webp" width="266" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">She was born nine months later and changed my world. Suddenly my wants and desires were centered around her. I never wanted to put her down. I never wanted to leave her. I wanted to give her the world. And at the time that meant any and everything from Target and Toys R Us. She was her daddy’s girl and her mamas world! She still is. She’s now a little girl who wears her heart on her sleeve, who loves her mommy and daddy, and also her little sister.&nbsp;</span></div><div style="line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Getting pregnant the third time was much easier than the second time. It happened so fast and we were now going to have two girls fifteen months apart! Some say because we got pregnant so close together that we made Avery grow up faster than she needed to. Maybe yes, but also no. God knew she needed a little sister, and he knew we needed another little girl, but this time a feisty and spunky little squirt. She completed our family. She also changed our world because now we have two little girls that are Daddy’s girls and their mamas world.&nbsp;</span></div><div style="line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><a href="/-ICvqhFcymRE/WvbqW-v1l8I/AAAAAAAAPXw/RuES5c6to9oqR4zCGVSSt86fKp1z_oAugCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_8743.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-ICvqhFcymRE/WvbqW-v1l8I/AAAAAAAAPXw/RuES5c6to9oqR4zCGVSSt86fKp1z_oAugCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_8743.webp" width="266" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">Being a mom hasn’t been the easiest job I’ve ever had. It’s tough, y’all! It’s a blessing for sure. It’s questioning everyday if you are raising them the way you should. It’s learning that Gods grace is enough for you, and that we should show grace to them. It’s trying. It’s rewarding! It’s laughing at their funny dances and silly sayings. It’s worrying everyday if you are enough. It’s loving them more than you love yourself - ten times more!&nbsp;</span></div><div style="line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I am their mother, mama, mom. I’m the only mom they have (<i>whether they like it or not</i>). I’m doing the best I can at making decisions that are best for them, and for us as a family. I know we only get one shot at raising them right. I pray that even though my parenting ways may differ from other moms that my way is best for us and them. I pray I’m not screwing up their childhood. I pray they know how much I love them, always.&nbsp;</span></div><div style="line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It was the desire of my heart to be a mom. And my dreams are now my reality. Everyday is a blessing with them. And everyday I thank the good Lord above&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">for making me their mama.&nbsp;</span></div><div style="line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This Mother’s Day we know a few who are waiting for their turn to be a mom. Terry and I know how it feels to long for a baby, and it can be just as hard on the husband as it is for the wife. We pray their wait isn’t long. We hope this next year brings tears of joy for Mother’s Day!&nbsp;</span></div><div style="line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For all the moms of preschoolers, we just have to keep telling ourselves that we are enough. We are enough as a mom and a wife! And that the terrible twos, threenager, and fournado years won’t last forever.&nbsp;</span></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/TUvgA8dRW6E" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]1http://www.sowelllife.com/2018/05/the-desires-of-my-heart.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-14849373117757704492018-05-09T15:12:00.:002018-05-09T15:20:03.428-05:00It's <b>H O T</b> in the South y'all. I'm talking Spring completely skipped right over us. And if we weren't already a glutton for punishment, we went to the strawberry patch to pick us a batch of strawberries earlier this week. I'm not sure I even made it to the passenger side of the vehicle to get the girls out before I was doing some <b><i>major</i></b>&nbsp;<strike>glistening</strike><b>&nbsp;</b>sweatin'. But our sweet friends asked us to go and we were excited because this would be our first time pickin' strawberries.<br /><br />The patch we went to was about a forty-five minute drive from our house. It didn't take us long to pick our buckets full. We were worried they wouldn't have many left — wrong! They had so many ripe strawberries that we didn't even go all the way down our two rows before filling up four buckets.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-aQpVMKRZBwQ/WvNL_RGRJjI/AAAAAAAAPWg/f7uuCb1u-oQVMiO9Q5KEtnuGb1xzTqA9QCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-2.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="/-aQpVMKRZBwQ/WvNL_RGRJjI/AAAAAAAAPWg/f7uuCb1u-oQVMiO9Q5KEtnuGb1xzTqA9QCLcBGAs/s400/Image-1-2.webp" width="400" /></a></div>&nbsp; <br />Avery kept telling me on the way to the field that she couldn't wait to make a strawberry cake. And seeing as how I've never made anything with strawberries in it, I had no clue how many strawberries it would take. Needless to say, four buckets = strawberries running out our ears. So we have been sharing a couple of buckets with our neighbors and friends since I found out most recipes only call for a cup or less. Whoops!<br /><br />Did I mention that it's <b>H O T</b>? And I'm not about to turn that oven on to make it even hotter in here. <i>(Y'all I'm sure our sweet neighbor is reading this and laughing. She knows to wear a sweater to our house because I like it freezing in here!)</i> Since I didn't want to turn the oven on I got to thinking about a good way we could use the strawberries. Smoothies. Yes. But Avery <i>really</i> wanted to "bake" something. So I thought about the very first recipe my mom taught me — Lemon Ice Box Pie. It's the first thing she let me make on my own to carry to church and other functions when I was in high school. I thought incorporating the strawberries in that recipe might be a fun idea. And, well, it was perfect!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-GCCOmmnJbL4/WvNVL22LpZI/AAAAAAAAPXE/AJkYFc9DM8ApWBWsK-56sk_I6NaeYizhACLcBGAs/s1600/StrawberryLemonadePie.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="/-GCCOmmnJbL4/WvNVL22LpZI/AAAAAAAAPXE/AJkYFc9DM8ApWBWsK-56sk_I6NaeYizhACLcBGAs/s640/StrawberryLemonadePie.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Ingredients:<br />1/4 cup of lemon juice<br />1 1/2 cups of pureed strawberries<br />1 14 oz. of sweetened condensed milk<br />1 8 oz. tub of cool whip (thawed)<br />1 graham cracker ready crust<br /><br /><br />Directions:<br />Combine lemon juice, strawberry puree and sweetened condensed milk and whisk together until blended. Add the entire tub of cool whip folding it in with the previous ingredients. Pour into the graham cracker crust and let it set in the fridge for three to four hours. When serving, garish with more strawberry puree and/or lemon zest.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-NfI-R2YlWoY/WvNX5CxrzDI/AAAAAAAAPXQ/8lVRBak7-F8BQ2yhfejjlk8mZpssDnuAACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5198.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="/-NfI-R2YlWoY/WvNX5CxrzDI/AAAAAAAAPXQ/8lVRBak7-F8BQ2yhfejjlk8mZpssDnuAACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_5198.webp" width="426" /></a></div><br />This is the perfect cool treat for these crazy summer days!<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/K20PBO8pQjc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]1http://www.sowelllife.com/2018/05/strawberry-lemonade-pie.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-77827364177081698652017-08-15T10:00:00.:002017-08-15T10:00:01.:00Libraries are filled with books written about people's lives — their childhood, school age, college days, adulthood, marriage, parenthood, and so on. If our family had a book, this last chapter would have been called "It's Hard to Say Goodbye"!&nbsp;<div><br /></div><div>Last year during Avy and Lenny's school year, we met a family who had kids in the same classes as ours. Our kids were instant friends, but us moms didn't really get introduced until a few months later. It wasn't until after Christmas that our (the moms) friendship really took off! We realized we had more in common that we could have ever imagined. And my girls loved their mom, and her kids loved me. We started taking zoo trips together, and even had a few playdates mixed in before school ended. Of course, a few weeks before school ended she dropped a bomb on me. Her husband had been promoted and was being transferred to a new location. Crushed. Knowing our our kids loved each other, we knew this was going to be hard on all of us.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-GVMx_DDDBj0/WZMJDlwXbbI/AAAAAAAAPVs/890jo_CN8UoMB6Z7Ya14w_uO-C39wNepACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2610.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="/-GVMx_DDDBj0/WZMJDlwXbbI/AAAAAAAAPVs/890jo_CN8UoMB6Z7Ya14w_uO-C39wNepACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2610.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-6e7aEz2W6Ms/WZMJDCbQdnI/AAAAAAAAPVo/aXbVwWlKyrYK4MxjbpaQL60KMZNzaTsOQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5275.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-6e7aEz2W6Ms/WZMJDCbQdnI/AAAAAAAAPVo/aXbVwWlKyrYK4MxjbpaQL60KMZNzaTsOQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_5275.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>So we made a vow to do as much together as humanly possible this summer to get the most out of their last days here in Bham. And we did just that. From the zoo to the children's museum, to playdates and lunch dates, from swimming lessons and swimming playtime, and yes, even soccer dates — we had the best summer together. And then first of August came and we had to say goodbye.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-0MSyp0MFnA4/WZMIxQCP5rI/AAAAAAAAPVk/ynHIkN91G1Ee0oHRoE7deavII_76G3-GQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_5009.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="/-0MSyp0MFnA4/WZMIxQCP5rI/AAAAAAAAPVk/ynHIkN91G1Ee0oHRoE7deavII_76G3-GQCK4BGAYYCw/s640/IMG_5009.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I don't think it hit our kids when they left, but it's been a little over a week and they keep asking where Becca and Stephen are. Hurts this mama's heart, but I'm so thankful for social media and phone calls so we can keep in touch. Such a fun and memorable summer with the Reyes family. So thankful He made our paths cross, even if it was only for a short amount of time. We are praying for their new journey in Florida, and planning a visit with them soon!&nbsp;</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/eA06P82_n3w" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]3http://www.sowelllife.com/2017/08/the-closing-of-another-chapter.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-76738949237935109292017-08-04T06:00:00.:002017-08-04T06:00:27.965-05:00When summer begins we see all our friends heading to the beach, but our beach vacation is always towards the end of the summer before school starts back. Sometimes I see their pictures and get a little jealous, and then I remember we will be at the beach soon enough. The summer always seems to pass by quickly!<br /><br /><a href="/-MwwAyPnn6uo/WYIpUROz6bI/AAAAAAAAPS0/mWaCrNg-vsIc-zWw_NT3x39yKwi4sCcUgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4585.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="/-MwwAyPnn6uo/WYIpUROz6bI/AAAAAAAAPS0/mWaCrNg-vsIc-zWw_NT3x39yKwi4sCcUgCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4585.webp" width="300" /></a>We normally stay in Peridio Key, but this year Terry's parents opted for a bigger place — a beach house in Laguna Key. It was huge — six bedrooms, four and a half baths, and the kitchen was any cooks dream! The girls had plenty of room to run, and that's important for toddlers.<br /><br />We couldn't check in until later in the afternoon, but we left out early, like seven a.m. early. The interstate starts backing up around eight a.m. where we live and it stays that way until mid afternoon. Well, we have two toddlers and one is potty trained and you do NOT want to be in the car all day long. Terry and I agree that sitting still on the interstate is the devil! So when we arrived at the beach at lunch we planned a fun afternoon to tire them out before we could check into the beach house. We ate lunch, played in the sand, watched boats going in and out of the harbor, and went to a splash pad before getting back in the vehicle so they could get in a nap before meeting up with the rest of the family.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-r4fWP-gcJIQ/WYIsA6hT8mI/AAAAAAAAPS8/0Hg3zUhCXrwbOX30dsxt0FIbUYcSiNXoACLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-r4fWP-gcJIQ/WYIsA6hT8mI/AAAAAAAAPS8/0Hg3zUhCXrwbOX30dsxt0FIbUYcSiNXoACLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />Once we got settled in and halfway unpacked, we ate dinner at the beach house — <a href="http://www.janinospizza.com/contact.html" target="_blank">Janino's Pizza</a>. It was also Terry's birthday so we celebrated with a little cake, too. The girls went out with the cousins and their dads for a late night swim and then we got settled in for the night so we could start off our first full day ready to go!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-y4C-2_5ZdgI/WYIsx4uVI5I/AAAAAAAAPTA/FZB2bfi0bwYp9kikOkmcsVs6erTNh7cmwCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-2.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-y4C-2_5ZdgI/WYIsx4uVI5I/AAAAAAAAPTA/FZB2bfi0bwYp9kikOkmcsVs6erTNh7cmwCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-2.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />We love being at the beach, but we aren't the kind of people who sit on the beach all day and cool off in the ocean. No, we would be those people who love to spend the morning at the pool, and then enjoy a relaxing afternoon before getting ready to go out to eat for dinner. I could sit and watch the waves all day everyday, but I like to do that from a window or balcony. We do love to walk on the beach after dinner, but not every night.<br /><br />Sunday morning, we got up and headed out for the pool. It was a beautiful morning, but we didn't stay out long. Terry and I scheduled a beach session with a <a href="http://www.chleephotography.com/" target="_blank">photographer</a> we know from our hometown for late that afternoon and we wanted our girls to get a nap so they would be in a good mood. (We haven't gotten our pictures back, yet, but I'll share them once we get them in!) We left out for our beach session and met up with the rest of the family at <a href="http://shippsrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Shipps Harbor Grill</a>, which happens to be all of our family's favorites restaurant at the beach. Those gouda mashed potatoes are to die for! It was also my mother-in-law's birthday, so we celebrated back at the beach house with an ice cream cake.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-CejPtU_hP9w/WYIvk0i8sTI/AAAAAAAAPTM/c6UGDsQBbA8RFBvWovVhik6jH81WLQ_hQCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-4.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-CejPtU_hP9w/WYIvk0i8sTI/AAAAAAAAPTM/c6UGDsQBbA8RFBvWovVhik6jH81WLQ_hQCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-4.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />Monday looked like a rainy morning, so just the girls ventured out to see what we could get into. We had plans to visit the outlet mall, but decided since it was so close to lunch to dine in at&nbsp;<a href="http://lulubuffett.com/gulf-shores/" target="_blank">Lulu's</a>&nbsp;instead. Avery and Hannah built a sand castle while we waited for our food, which is always good. There weren't many boats out to watch pass by, but we saw a few and a tons of birds! After lunch we ended back up at the splash pad. My girls thought this was the best thing ever!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-ZVZDHU2dG50/WYIyGxvi-pI/AAAAAAAAPTY/l-RTtWTJf64xP5Pkz2ZhlJzI_SRkMSLogCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-5.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-ZVZDHU2dG50/WYIyGxvi-pI/AAAAAAAAPTY/l-RTtWTJf64xP5Pkz2ZhlJzI_SRkMSLogCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-5.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />For dinner we went to another favorite, <a href="http://cottons1985.com/" target="_blank">Cotton's</a>. They have a delicious filet, and the girls love their virgin banana "icee's" while the adults like the non virgin ones!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-THwsLKV4MTc/WYIykC4PziI/AAAAAAAAPTc/cR4uzdhMToQpRQJq0bKtqJ974Rf6atqRgCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-6.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-THwsLKV4MTc/WYIykC4PziI/AAAAAAAAPTc/cR4uzdhMToQpRQJq0bKtqJ974Rf6atqRgCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-6.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />Once we got back from dinner, the girls wanted to go for a night time swim. I decided I wanted to walk out on the pier to capture that evenings sunset. Well, the sign on the pier says "Alligators on site, please be careful" and of course, who would have guessed that I'd actually see one on my way out! I called Terry, Hannah, and no one answered. So I called my sister-in-law, Cathy, and she answered and said they were coming out. I mainly wanted someone to stay and watch it while I went further out. I didn't want to come back and not know where it was. Well, while I was out taking the sunset pictures my brother-in-law watched the alligator eat a duck! We didn't see him (or her) the rest of the trip, but once was all I needed to know that we needed to be careful!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-Qzf-pS-oCrg/WYI0RuAGrgI/AAAAAAAAPTo/1UE5zWCO9cgg0VvjyMb1-Mr4Iow8ua49wCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-7.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-Qzf-pS-oCrg/WYI0RuAGrgI/AAAAAAAAPTo/1UE5zWCO9cgg0VvjyMb1-Mr4Iow8ua49wCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-7.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />It was back to the pool the next morning for more sun and fun. And after lunch, we all headed out on the pier (yes where the alligator was) to do some fishing. Jellyfish were everywhere and they actually caught some fish, though none were kept.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-lpUTNTeFuHg/WYI023evSYI/AAAAAAAAPTs/0NK77umEdSkckvziXqA6EoEE6wSMcTHCACLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-8.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-lpUTNTeFuHg/WYI023evSYI/AAAAAAAAPTs/0NK77umEdSkckvziXqA6EoEE6wSMcTHCACLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-8.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />That evening for dinner we went to <a href="http://nolansrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Nolan's</a>! This was my first time to dine there, and it was delicious. &nbsp;Everyone ordered something different and everyone was happy with their meals. It's a little fancy for the beach, but perfect for a night out for celebrating!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-0bEUgFFqrPo/WYI1xd90IHI/AAAAAAAAPT4/73ZrvNYcjzgYQi3uVsTEhjeb_BZAL1ZNACLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-9.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-0bEUgFFqrPo/WYI1xd90IHI/AAAAAAAAPT4/73ZrvNYcjzgYQi3uVsTEhjeb_BZAL1ZNACLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-9.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />This was my brother-in-laws last night to be with us on vacation so we went back out on the pier to take some family pictures of he and his family, and of the grand girls with their grandparents. While I am a photographer and love to take pictures, it is a pain in the rear end to set up and take pictures of yourself with your family. Which is why Terry and I paid to have our family pictures taken by someone else. But Hannah did manage to get one good one of our family that evening. I told the others I would take their photos if that's what they wanted. We're at the beach, so it's either sand and wind, or on the pier with wind. So they chose on the pier. Either way you're going to have wind. So <b>all</b> pictures have that wind blown look, cause that's the way all beach pictures are.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-huMJrOqgkXI/WYI4OK0I65I/AAAAAAAAPUE/JmqlRGtizj4eKEbLn-bMQZRVIdUo5kpFACLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-10.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-huMJrOqgkXI/WYI4OK0I65I/AAAAAAAAPUE/JmqlRGtizj4eKEbLn-bMQZRVIdUo5kpFACLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-10.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />Wednesday was another pool morning before the rain set in for the day. When we went out to <a href="http://www.gilbeysseafoodandsteaks.com/" target="_blank">Gibley's</a> for dinner and came home to a gorgeous rainbow!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-CrvNHIFboCI/WYI-SyTimcI/AAAAAAAAPUY/dH3wP5OH5BMfSjDsHIfl9E3uIXzl6ufHACLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-11.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-CrvNHIFboCI/WYI-SyTimcI/AAAAAAAAPUY/dH3wP5OH5BMfSjDsHIfl9E3uIXzl6ufHACLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-11.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />Thursday was our last morning at the pool. We made the most of it and stayed out there until we were too hungry to swim and sun. We came back in to get ready for dinner. We tried three different places but all their wait times were crazy long, so we ended up at a new to us place closer to the beach house. Oddly enough it was called <a href="http://beachhousegs.com/" target="_blank">The Beach House</a>. It was a fun place and we really liked the food. Terry said it was so good he could eat there again the next night. Ha!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-t0qn1Q3XnAI/WYI_pjDd5FI/AAAAAAAAPUc/oNhBvYh3J6wiNQyTbdohGjLdTuY0G6_ngCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-12.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-t0qn1Q3XnAI/WYI_pjDd5FI/AAAAAAAAPUc/oNhBvYh3J6wiNQyTbdohGjLdTuY0G6_ngCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-12.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />That night we took the girls out on the beach for a walk and to see the sun set. It was a gorgeous night, and they loved the little waves crashing at their feet. This was the first time Little Bit actually liked the sand! She liked it so much she didn't want to leave it!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-M4bFZKfrVWk/WYJAxcVSsvI/AAAAAAAAPUg/33A46My_5ogQ4OBVIti2cbQjEaEzPdH0wCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-13.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-M4bFZKfrVWk/WYJAxcVSsvI/AAAAAAAAPUg/33A46My_5ogQ4OBVIti2cbQjEaEzPdH0wCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-13.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />Friday! If you ask the girls what their favorite part of the beach way... they say they loved Friday more than any other day at the beach. Why? Because we went to <a href="http://www.funatthetrack.com/" target="_blank">The Track</a>. They got to ride swings, the carousel, the train, and some spinner thing! If it wasn't so dang hot, we probably would have stayed there all day long! But we ended up running over to the outlet mall and then back to the beach house to get ready for dinner. But don't worry, after dinner we went back to The Track to finish using all our points. I promise you Little Bit rode the carousel ten times back to back. The guy running it didn't even make her get off! Ha! Dinner was at <a href="http://mikeesseafood.com/menu/" target="_blank">Mikee's</a> and it was delicious! We tried a lot of things on the starter menu in addition to our main course meals. We've eaten there before and it was ever bit as good as we remembered.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-zm7esMiRUWY/WYJCT41I8wI/AAAAAAAAPUo/jaAOmMCXu4oWY2QpKbH10EF0w_jJzmwRgCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-14.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-zm7esMiRUWY/WYJCT41I8wI/AAAAAAAAPUo/jaAOmMCXu4oWY2QpKbH10EF0w_jJzmwRgCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-14.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-I6PT_zT-a2s/WYJCYzYP7dI/AAAAAAAAPUs/433o8BukHSQOoNIbKq4OvTRf4DbElCCMQCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-15.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-I6PT_zT-a2s/WYJCYzYP7dI/AAAAAAAAPUs/433o8BukHSQOoNIbKq4OvTRf4DbElCCMQCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-15.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />No one likes to leave vacation, but our girls really didn't want to leave. Well, they really just wanted us to take them back to The Track again. While it was good to get away, it's always great to get back home. But we made a few stops on our way home. We shopped at Bass Pro and we stopped to get some ice cream at <a href="http://www.durbinfarms.com/" target="_blank">Durbin Farms</a>. Traffic was a nightmare the closer we got home, so we took the backroads and made it home before dark!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-c7OB8wx4-fY/WYJJNIJ6FxI/AAAAAAAAPVA/PlKloqhUj1EdkeW1v2mu_kb44a-FJ78pgCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-16.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-c7OB8wx4-fY/WYJJNIJ6FxI/AAAAAAAAPVA/PlKloqhUj1EdkeW1v2mu_kb44a-FJ78pgCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-16.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />Another beach trip is in the books. And we have a whole year to rest up and get prepared for our next beach adventure! I'm so thankful we had a week with Terry even though there were work phone calls here and there. But I'm thankful we made memories together for our little family that our girls will never forget!<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/4JHCacLaYKc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]2http://www.sowelllife.com/2017/08/laguna-key-2017.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-3032699011722844722017-08-02T14:15:00.:002017-08-02T14:15:02.:00If you blinked, you missed July. Or at least that's how it seemed to be for us. It was so crazy, I didn't even have a chance to blog about our adventures. So today I'm going to give you a glimpse at our crazy, fun month of July. We just got back from our beach vacation, and I'll give y'all a look at our beach days in a separate post soon!<br /><br /><h4>4th of July at the lake</h4>We love our annual lake time with our family at Logan Martin Lake. This year, we celebrated the 4th a few days early on July 1st. Terry's family made the drive over that morning and went with us to celebrate! It was a great day to spend time with family, and catch up! The weather was so nice until 6 o'clock and then the storms started rolling in. We had to get back home to get the girls a bath and put them to bed so we missed the wonderful firework show that Shannon puts on every year. Completely bummed about it, but we go to see it on facebook the next morning thanks to his wife, Susan!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-8EkthbjkC4Y/WYHvw4xWBBI/AAAAAAAAPRE/vIO3ZdNivTY9UAb6b2AWAoD78-3eSgkOQCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-2.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-8EkthbjkC4Y/WYHvw4xWBBI/AAAAAAAAPRE/vIO3ZdNivTY9UAb6b2AWAoD78-3eSgkOQCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-2.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h4>Hannah came to visit</h4>Our oldest niece, Hannah, came to stay with us for a couple of weeks in July. We were excited to have her with us, and our girls especially loved her visit. They LOVE Hann, and enjoyed every minute of our adventures while she was with us. She's a great babysitter, and we took full advantage of her being here and had some quality time just the hubs and I, twice! We went swimming, a lot! We shopped, a lot! All fun things that we girls enjoy. When we had to take her home both girls were crying because she wasn't in the car with us. We look forward to her visit next summer, and maybe we can talk her sister in to coming with her, too.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-4qwcW4jW_TA/WYH2f-t7vVI/AAAAAAAAPRU/AvR3g5iPqNsF_u8cp0kMpbrP3wOMQH6gwCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-3.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-4qwcW4jW_TA/WYH2f-t7vVI/AAAAAAAAPRU/AvR3g5iPqNsF_u8cp0kMpbrP3wOMQH6gwCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-3.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h4>Avery's bountiful garden</h4>Papa and Avery planted her garden late this year, and it's proven to be her best garden yet! She has three different kinds of tomatoes, two different kinds of peppers, watermelon, cantaloupe, corn, and squash! We've been handing out tomatoes to all our neighbors because they are so plentiful! I think it's slowly starting to dry up, so we will have to clean out the beds and get them ready for next summer.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-Bgxz2j8DFfM/WYINLw42IfI/AAAAAAAAPR0/Cj2tqUQK39Yn0r7h1Dp7_425-YcFaS3MQCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-5.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-Bgxz2j8DFfM/WYINLw42IfI/AAAAAAAAPR0/Cj2tqUQK39Yn0r7h1Dp7_425-YcFaS3MQCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-5.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><h4>Avery plays soccer shots</h4>Last spring at Avery's school they offered soccer shots and she was crushed that we didn't allow her play. When a friend told me they were having it this summer, I jumped online to sign her up. Of course, I didn't think about it being 100 degrees outside with mosquitoes, gnats, and it taking place around dinnertime. Even though her face is solid red, she's having a ball. We have a few more classes left this summer and then it's over. I'm so glad she's having a wonderful time, and learning soccer and life lessons, too! Coach Addison and Coach Ali have been great with her, and I know she's going to miss them!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-r8UqBP9wzqI/WYINZzsI4AI/AAAAAAAAPR4/igfpIndlaPw2eNrTenuQa8Xm975SiK12wCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-6.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-r8UqBP9wzqI/WYINZzsI4AI/AAAAAAAAPR4/igfpIndlaPw2eNrTenuQa8Xm975SiK12wCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-6.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h4>Unka B &amp; MarMar visit</h4>My brother and sister-in-law live in D.C. and we really only get to see them twice a year, three times if we are lucky! We try to facetime with them once a week, but it's just not the same as them being here with us. We've promised we will try to go visit them next year, we just haven't decided exactly when that will be. They came for a quick visit in July, and the girls had a ball. And, Unka B and MarMar might have spoiled them in the 24 hrs they were here. December can't get here soon enough so we can spend time with them again!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-WPORTcQmWvw/WYIOs0AxroI/AAAAAAAAPSA/2lPfeS6v8zIKNWprfvLH_IZkafwy3oBPwCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-7.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-WPORTcQmWvw/WYIOs0AxroI/AAAAAAAAPSA/2lPfeS6v8zIKNWprfvLH_IZkafwy3oBPwCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1-7.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h4>Pool days</h4>Our pool opened up the first weekend of May and even though we are in the south, it was still freezing until the end of June. We finally were able to get in without shaking to death, and the girls LOVE to be in the water. So we've been at the pool at least two or three days a week this July. Our babies have the cutest little tan lines and are swimming so good. Practice makes perfect, right? We can't wait to spend the rest of August at the pool!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-MHvCWO7SxbY/WYIekNZ7hTI/AAAAAAAAPSY/UiaKdBRLMIswYjXnURGfrWDtuv0Zb8eXQCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="/-MHvCWO7SxbY/WYIekNZ7hTI/AAAAAAAAPSY/UiaKdBRLMIswYjXnURGfrWDtuv0Zb8eXQCLcBGAs/s640/Image-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And that was our July in a nutshell. The last week and a half of July was spent at the beach. I'll have that post coming up next.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">How was your July? Our summer is flying by, but it sure is fun!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-WPORTcQmWvw/WYIOs0AxroI/AAAAAAAAPSA/2lPfeS6v8zIKNWprfvLH_IZkafwy3oBPwCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-7.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-27-8npRyrco/WYH6LubPW6I/AAAAAAAAPRg/mPrFQJHNAS8twWfdQPcRf-nfFgbb_biRgCLcBGAs/s1600/Image-1-4.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>&nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/4AReIKvx5SM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]2http://www.sowelllife.com/2017/08/july-happenings.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-47632132128062574972017-06-30T18:30:00.:002017-06-30T18:30:11.921-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-kJdJVyUo7Fw/WVbdOKhvwHI/AAAAAAAAPQM/KTW0NTPMfSsU83DkvHKXxsX4ruO9jS3BACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4134words.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="/-kJdJVyUo7Fw/WVbdOKhvwHI/AAAAAAAAPQM/KTW0NTPMfSsU83DkvHKXxsX4ruO9jS3BACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4134words.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />We have our annual Fourth of July at the lake this weekend and I always try to bring something that's homemade to the event. This week while I was scrolling through Pinterest, I found vanilla covered oreos with multi-colored sprinkles. So, the thought crossed my mind about making them red, white and blue. And y'all, it was so easy and they are perfect for all the little fingers that will be grabbing them off the dessert table.<br /><br />These are so easy to make, and my little Chefs enjoyed helping make these, too! And they have two thumbs up from them, too! Get your littles in the kitchen and have some fun making these. I found the red, white and blue sprinkles at Michaels, but I'm sure you can get them at any grocery store or craft store.&nbsp;<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-3fNzsKALRmc/WVbd87TkcAI/AAAAAAAAPQU/VrcqVz911okOeyZbFMOiBhrqjcWmfrp7gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4130-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="/-3fNzsKALRmc/WVbd87TkcAI/AAAAAAAAPQU/VrcqVz911okOeyZbFMOiBhrqjcWmfrp7gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4130-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />We used three packages of the Oreos, a full bottle of all the sprinkles, and two candiquik melts. Just follow the directions on the package of the candiquik, dip half of the oreo in, and then dip in a plate of sprinkles. We let them dry on some parchment paper before putting them in a container to take with us to the lake. Seriously, y'all, it's so easy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-94A7BVApkO0/WVbemI7JmJI/AAAAAAAAPQg/E0KjoxKLUgofkTn9DU615u0ulx7lusXSgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4131.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="/-94A7BVApkO0/WVbemI7JmJI/AAAAAAAAPQg/E0KjoxKLUgofkTn9DU615u0ulx7lusXSgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4131.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-W7bou8G9B84/WVbemJ3bDuI/AAAAAAAAPQc/UMZO4NRP9tw8tegvPE24fLsXXXZc3tDywCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4132.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="777" data-original-width="1166" height="426" src="/-W7bou8G9B84/WVbemJ3bDuI/AAAAAAAAPQc/UMZO4NRP9tw8tegvPE24fLsXXXZc3tDywCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4132.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-DmjJb5EqJbg/WVbemRY0FFI/AAAAAAAAPQk/FVefPMvuD9wxdzYVnPBcZIy06EwJ9yc5QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4133.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="714" height="640" src="/-DmjJb5EqJbg/WVbemRY0FFI/AAAAAAAAPQk/FVefPMvuD9wxdzYVnPBcZIy06EwJ9yc5QCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4133.webp" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-cfIl1Iy7FI8/WVbemoLguoI/AAAAAAAAPQo/T61I7t17TRcywRRDONQEtdmfwNpz5PzOQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4135.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="/-cfIl1Iy7FI8/WVbemoLguoI/AAAAAAAAPQo/T61I7t17TRcywRRDONQEtdmfwNpz5PzOQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4135.webp" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-aB5Kdibkpq8/WVben2vNEII/AAAAAAAAPQs/h8QM19_pCqsx9XvW55cj0oQngJiHJ1YKQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4136.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="/-aB5Kdibkpq8/WVben2vNEII/AAAAAAAAPQs/h8QM19_pCqsx9XvW55cj0oQngJiHJ1YKQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4136.webp" width="480" /></a></div><br />Y'all have a safe and Happy Fourth of July!! <br />&nbsp; <br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/lCDrrGcwnIk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]3http://www.sowelllife.com/2017/06/red-white-blue-oreos.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-46921214413674502922017-06-05T09:18:00.:002017-06-05T09:18:13.140-05:00When I became a mom three years ago, I knew things would change. Some of those things would change for only a few months/years, and others might be a lifetime change. And, I'm perfectly fine with that. One of those changes was my accessories. I don't wear the jewelry I used to, but I still wear my favorites so I don't really feel like I'm missing much in that department. But, when it came to a handbag/purse, that has been something I've really missed. Diaper bags are big and bulky enough without having to add additional bag to carry. And when you add a baby carrier with that, yep, you know quickly that leaving your handbag/purse behind is the best decision you'll ever make.<br /><br />Fast forward to where we are now. Our girls are toddlers, but we still need a bag to carry diapers, wipes, extra clothes for both girls, snacks, thermoses, and then I have items to pack, too. At first, I let them carry their backpacks and then I'd have my purse, but that wasn't working because I ended up carrying both of their bags, too. So, I decided I'd get a backpack for us to carry all of our stuff. And the one I got off of <a href="http://amzn.to/2rrkNBv" target="_blank">Amazon</a>, well, it apparently wasn't made to hold all the gear we needed. It ripped at the seam the first day we used it. I was so bummed about this, because this backpack was my style! I loved carrying it! Since this bag didn't work, it made me do some major digging on the internet for the perfect bag (for me). For over a week, I researched hundreds of bags and read even more reviews. I would drag my husband over to the computer at least a dozen times, and he would always say, "you are the one carrying it, you decide" and then I would second guess my opinion again. I'm sure a friend of mine would tell you that if I never mentioned diaper bag/backpacks ever again to her, she would be a okay with that! I really thought I wanted a backpack, but all of the reviews were leading me to a satchel. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-qTUIiXs02C8/WTTGbmBqksI/AAAAAAAAPPE/xMtslqz_7T8MKxBevnPVMrqc255l0Lo3QCLcB/s1600/IMG_3728.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1500" height="512" src="/-qTUIiXs02C8/WTTGbmBqksI/AAAAAAAAPPE/xMtslqz_7T8MKxBevnPVMrqc255l0Lo3QCLcB/s640/IMG_3728.webp" width="640" /></a></div>I bit the bullet last week, and decided to go with the <a href="http://amzn.to/2s7NUei" target="_blank">Skip Hop Chelsea Satchel</a>. It came in and I started filling it up with all of my items from the backpack that I was still carrying around with a ripped seam. It has so many pockets for all of our needs. And dare I say, I still have room in the bag for more?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-lbEkW_60iVw/WTTKdRv_kkI/AAAAAAAAPPQ/EogBQpSM6LYq_sItiKyujPg9aAv2SrMkgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3715.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="/-lbEkW_60iVw/WTTKdRv_kkI/AAAAAAAAPPQ/EogBQpSM6LYq_sItiKyujPg9aAv2SrMkgCLcB/s640/IMG_3715.webp" width="426" /></a></div><br />The bag is stylish and it looks great when I'm carrying it around. It has two pockets on the sides, one for each of the girls' thermoses. It has two pockets in the front with magnetic closure. I use one to store paci's for emergencies, and the other holds my lip gloss.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-zXvu2MlnObE/WTTLUxfI7tI/AAAAAAAAPPY/lFm88va05NYXenVvJ2k1eFrPpAZG9SMMACLcB/s1600/IMG_3718.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1174" data-original-width="1052" height="640" src="/-zXvu2MlnObE/WTTLUxfI7tI/AAAAAAAAPPY/lFm88va05NYXenVvJ2k1eFrPpAZG9SMMACLcB/s640/IMG_3718.webp" width="572" /></a></div><br />Then the bag has a zip up section that I keep all of my personal things in like my wallet, makeup, and eye glass case. It is deep and I have a lot of room left if I decide to add more items.&nbsp; There is also another small zipper section where I keep my keys and my cell phone. I can get to it easily, and it's a shallow pocket so I don't feel like I'm searching forever to find those two things.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-jPfYFEA2flE/WTTMC6U3KUI/AAAAAAAAPPg/9PprO4doB8wfZ5cRcY1ow0GDLUbF-SGngCLcB/s1600/IMG_3726.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="/-jPfYFEA2flE/WTTMC6U3KUI/AAAAAAAAPPg/9PprO4doB8wfZ5cRcY1ow0GDLUbF-SGngCLcB/s640/IMG_3726.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />The back pocket has a changing pad included with the bag. Right now I'm keeping it in there because we still need it, but once we are out of diapers, I can put my laptop, ipad, planner, etc, in that section.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-zz9Ud71Ukeg/WTTMc1-oKjI/AAAAAAAAPPk/MVvcMvGTW_YufKuN_j6YSGbxyhja90DbgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3725.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1255" data-original-width="1600" height="502" src="/-zz9Ud71Ukeg/WTTMc1-oKjI/AAAAAAAAPPk/MVvcMvGTW_YufKuN_j6YSGbxyhja90DbgCLcB/s640/IMG_3725.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />The center zipper compartment is huge! It has four pockets (two on each side) and it's deep. I keep the girls' extra change of clothes, wipes, diapers, and snacks in there and we still have room to add more. And with all of this in the bag, it still doesn't feel weighed down.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-mq-4qado6g4/WTVkbpQPYgI/AAAAAAAAPP0/a9lRrkrY4LYwaX_YAAkhBTh2UeX_KCAfACLcB/s1600/IMG_3727.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1034" data-original-width="1600" height="412" src="/-mq-4qado6g4/WTVkbpQPYgI/AAAAAAAAPP0/a9lRrkrY4LYwaX_YAAkhBTh2UeX_KCAfACLcB/s640/IMG_3727.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />Overall, I'm really pleased with this bag! We tried out the stroller straps at the grocery store yesterday, and it freed up so much space by not having it in the buggy! The girls have even told me they like mama's new bag.<br /><br />Do you have this bag? What are your thoughts on it? If you are a mama or mama-to-be, I highly recommend getting <a href="http://amzn.to/2s7NUei" target="_blank">this satchel</a>. They also have the Chelsea in a <a href="http://amzn.to/2rL18x4" target="_blank">backpack</a>, too!!<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/YI1P8cdXE04" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]1http://www.sowelllife.com/2017/06/skip-hop-satchel.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-50255817254937135842017-06-02T19:11:00.:002017-06-02T19:11:18.893-05:00In case you missed the memo, today is National Donut Day!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-55QDiG0D5_A/WTH7RDCX3OI/AAAAAAAAPOY/45kx2NDZBpcyPm9QoiuA8bUkeYpAHTOqwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3655.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="/-55QDiG0D5_A/WTH7RDCX3OI/AAAAAAAAPOY/45kx2NDZBpcyPm9QoiuA8bUkeYpAHTOqwCLcB/s640/IMG_3655.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />We celebrated the day by heading over to our favorite donut shop this morning to enjoy their yummy goodness! The gourmet donut shops have all these delicious donuts topped with oreos, bacon and maple syrup, nutella, and bananas and peanut butter — but this ole gal loves her "plain jane" donuts. I like them glazed and chocolate glazed, and that's really it!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-hELMmZm4VgM/WTH74qfDknI/AAAAAAAAPOc/_oKbH5YzzcYQ3z1-fXHRyb0JAaeMEeBigCLcB/s1600/IMG_3654.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="/-hELMmZm4VgM/WTH74qfDknI/AAAAAAAAPOc/_oKbH5YzzcYQ3z1-fXHRyb0JAaeMEeBigCLcB/s640/IMG_3654.webp" width="426" /></a></div><br />However, the girls prefer their donut topped with chocolate and sprinkles. Who can blame them? They are colorful, messy, and F U N! We each enjoyed a donut at the shop this morning, but of course we came home with more for tomorrow's breakfast and so daddy could enjoy some! Hope you got to celebrate this delicious the day! We sure did!!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-hpWuonrH4S4/WTH9oJPTpgI/AAAAAAAAPOs/T9yNPNv8pwgQHACbHIesgvnlvu1R_3q_wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3671.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-hpWuonrH4S4/WTH9oJPTpgI/AAAAAAAAPOs/T9yNPNv8pwgQHACbHIesgvnlvu1R_3q_wCLcB/s400/IMG_3671.webp" width="266" /></a><a href="/-nl0szx7QhF0/WTH9nwp8clI/AAAAAAAAPOo/cvWkahB3kvUx32NUbs5qyOO7ByeW0AgBwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3675.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-nl0szx7QhF0/WTH9nwp8clI/AAAAAAAAPOo/cvWkahB3kvUx32NUbs5qyOO7ByeW0AgBwCLcB/s400/IMG_3675.webp" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-02nrlrHN-SA/WTH9nFlCadI/AAAAAAAAPOg/P2ZnwI4Et4wvhnjaNVe7kHrtZz0BN9I5gCLcB/s1600/IMG_3673.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-02nrlrHN-SA/WTH9nFlCadI/AAAAAAAAPOg/P2ZnwI4Et4wvhnjaNVe7kHrtZz0BN9I5gCLcB/s400/IMG_3673.webp" width="266" /></a><a href="/-KFE2o5JfVPc/WTH9neIuvtI/AAAAAAAAPOk/Aq-kFrkEK2wRrolOUE4IUsPnZyEqqV9JQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3672.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-KFE2o5JfVPc/WTH9neIuvtI/AAAAAAAAPOk/Aq-kFrkEK2wRrolOUE4IUsPnZyEqqV9JQCLcB/s400/IMG_3672.webp" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/3nsOhKQC4cI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]2http://www.sowelllife.com/2017/06/donut-chocolate-sprinkles-yasss.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-40707674709608908072017-06-01T11:55:00.:002017-06-01T11:55:09.872-05:00I'm just going to put this out here — <b><span style="color: #674ea7;">E V E R Y O N E</span></b> loves to celebrate their birthday. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise. Birthdays, no matter how old you are, should be special. Go ahead, make a big deal out of your day; actually, make a <span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>B I G</b></span> deal <span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>A L L</b></span> month!<br /><br /><h4>Things that should always happen to celebrate your birthday:</h4><h4>• <span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>C A K E</b></span> — <span style="font-weight: normal;">there should always be cake! Chocolate on chocolate is my favorite.</span>&nbsp; &nbsp; </h4><h4>• <b><span style="color: #674ea7;">P R E S E N T S</span></b> — <span style="font-weight: normal;">something you want, something you need, and a surprise!</span></h4><h4>• <span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>D I N N E R</b></span> — <span style="font-weight: normal;">a meal at your favorite restaurant with family and friends!</span></h4><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">And speaking of presents... does anyone else clam up when someone asks you what you want? Knowing very good and well that you know exactly what you want, but you don't want to start spitting out all the things you want when someone asks? No? Yes? I'm not the only one? Well, that's okay. I have a solution. I'm making a running list of everything I want. Big, small, inexpensive, expensive — I'm listing it all out. And, I'm going to have the list readily available so when someone asks, I can look at that list and decide what I should tell them. Let's face it, I'm getting to that age where everything I want, and need, is expensive. So, I'm going to try to remember to think about small stuff to put on there, too.</span><br /><br /><a href="/-2EzMhgISQK4/WTAfRrLPqFI/AAAAAAAAPN4/1Ub6DUrEvow4z0zV3oKIksQ592OqJ30pACLcB/s1600/our-name-is-mud-wine-glass-30-something-3000856-0-1444044648000.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="/-2EzMhgISQK4/WTAfRrLPqFI/AAAAAAAAPN4/1Ub6DUrEvow4z0zV3oKIksQ592OqJ30pACLcB/s320/our-name-is-mud-wine-glass-30-something-3000856-0-1444044648000.webp" width="320" /></a><span style="font-weight: normal;">So, you want to know what a middle aged 30 year old wants for her birthday? Wait, am I really about to be a middle aged 30 year old? How did I get to be in my mid 30s? I used to think 40 and 50 were old, but the closer I get to those numbers, the more I'm realizing that it's not old. Sorry mom and dad for calling y'all old at 40! Okay, enough sulking. I'll just pour myself a big ole glass of prune juice and deal with it. Back to the presents. While I know I won't be getting all of these presents for my birthday this year, (<i>or I better not be, unless we won the lottery!</i>) this is just visual board to show things that I'm interested in not only for my birthday, but Christmases, Anniversaries, etc. And maybe it can give you some ideas if you are struggling on what I ask for. </span><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-plLmdxm4NBY/WTBBy91jspI/AAAAAAAAPOI/TKY-P7839m0b6gcdEe_t4R13dOMgpACkACLcB/s1600/30birthdaygiftguide.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1368" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="/-plLmdxm4NBY/WTBBy91jspI/AAAAAAAAPOI/TKY-P7839m0b6gcdEe_t4R13dOMgpACkACLcB/s640/30birthdaygiftguide.webp" width="538" /></a></div><br />1 - <span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Amazon Echo</b></span></span> I'm a music lover! I would have music playing 24/7 if I could get away with it. But I really want a bluetooth speaker to play my music that's portable so I can take it outside on our screened in porch and have it inside, too. I've been looking at this <a href="http://amzn.to/2rXBPIM" target="_blank">Echo on Amazon</a>, and I think this would not only give me the bluetooth speaker that I'm wanting, but it has so much more to offer as well! But, I also like <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0145L65S0/ref=twister_B06Y5BMZGN?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1" target="_blank">this one</a> because you can take it to the pool or outside and don't have to worry if it gets wet.<br /><br />2 - <span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Compact Camera</b></span></span> I love my Canon 6D, but it's really a pain to carry it to the zoo, pool, etc. And we are gearing up for our Disney vacation later this year, and I know I will not want to haul in another backpack with all the other stuff we already have to carry in for the girls. So, I've been doing a lot of research, and I've decided to go with this one from <a href="http://amzn.to/2siwvNt" target="_blank">Amazon</a>. You can preorder it now, or wait til June 6th to order. It's been a really long time since I've had a small point and shoot camera, and the reviews from last year's model of this one are terrific! So I can't wait to get my hands on this one and start photographing with it!<br /><br />3 - <span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>Third Wedding Band</b></span> Okay, okay, I know this technically isn't something to ask for, but I've been wanting a third band for awhile. I <span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>L O V E</b></span> my wedding set! However, I wouldn't mind adding a third band that's a little different to the mix. I like this one, but I'm open to others. This one is from <a href="https://diamondsdirect.com/catalogsearch/advanced/?a=1&amp;prod_type=wedding&amp;attr=wedding_gender&amp;opt=540&amp;dsgnr_id=&amp;prc_min=1&amp;prc_max=20000&amp;order_by=rnd&amp;limit=12&amp;pg_no=1&amp;url_prod_type=&amp;q=&amp;if_prd_id=10990" target="_blank">Diamonds Direct</a>. <br /><br />4 - <span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Birthstone Bands</b></span></span> I have a Mother's ring that Terry and the girls gave me two years ago. I love it, and wear it daily. I love the idea of stacking a solid band of their birthstones on either side of it. Or, some days just wearing the bands, to give a different look. If they offer these with their three band sale, I'd get our anniversary month (March) to have in the center just like my Mother's ring. <a href="https://www.everlyshop.com/birthstonebands" target="_blank">Everly Stackable Bands</a> are redesigning these birthstone bands and they will be for sale in a few weeks. I can't wait to see the redesign, and I have my fingers crossed that these will be on my hand in the future!<br /><br />5 - <span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Gift Cards</b></span></span> Yes I know it's generic, and very impersonal, but sometimes you can use these to help buy the gifts you are really wanting. So giving an <a href="http://amzn.to/2qESflr" target="_blank">Amazon</a> gift card, or even gift cards to go out to eat can make someones day. That's the gift that keeps on giving because by the time you get to use your gift card, you remember why and how you got it.<br /><br />6 - <span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Doormat</b></span></span> I can't tell you how many times I pass by the cute doormats at Target and love them, but never remember to purchase one. Well, we need one, badly. The one we've had is the one we've had since we got married. Except I do put a different one out for Fall and Christmas. So, I thought this would be a fun gift that is something we need, and want. <a href="http://www.target.com/p/hometrax-coir-mat-doormat-summer-flower-18-x-30/-/A-17249832" target="_blank">Target</a> has some really cute designs, but I think this one is <a href="http://www.target.com/p/hometrax-coir-mat-doormat-summer-flower-18-x-30/-/A-17249832" target="_blank">my favorite</a>!<br /><br />What do you ask for when your birthday rolls around? I might need to add it to my running list of things. ;)<br /><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/fpr0TOuGCxQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]16http://www.sowelllife.com/2017/06/hello-june-hello-birthday-month.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-59434578421764167612017-05-28T18:12:00.:002017-05-28T18:12:58.608-05:00We're right in the middle of our Memorial weekend, and we decided to spend the day outside as much as possible. Rain is in the forecast for all of next week, and we needed to get some energy out before we are forced indoors.<br /><br />This morning we took a trip to the zoo. We have a membership and the girls and I have gone four times this spring, but this was the first time daddy has gotten to go with us since we usually go during the week. We rode the train to see the pirate exhibit, saw the monkeys playing, elephants eating, birds making lots of noise, and even saw a friend that I haven't seen in a few years since she moved to Mobile! We even had lunch at the zoo today, and everyone ate their meals. S C O R E!!! And no zoo trip is complete without <strike>one</strike> three rides on the carousel. The pictures below are of one "patiently" waiting for the train to move and who is not into pictures, and one who couldn't be happier to be on her favorite giraffe on the carousel.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-pdK4q7mm-ec/WStST_SkjnI/AAAAAAAAPM0/MdPCWXO66ksfc4MFIjD8ua0-vHBUKD3oQCLcB/s1600/DSC02269.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="630" height="400" src="/-pdK4q7mm-ec/WStST_SkjnI/AAAAAAAAPM0/MdPCWXO66ksfc4MFIjD8ua0-vHBUKD3oQCLcB/s400/DSC02269.webp" width="251" /></a><a href="/-9XZyrCHIzmc/WStSTzIBoFI/AAAAAAAAPM4/GTIrdJpsVtYosAb57NepAx4xnWqijWbPQCLcB/s1600/DSC02275.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="664" height="400" src="/-9XZyrCHIzmc/WStSTzIBoFI/AAAAAAAAPM4/GTIrdJpsVtYosAb57NepAx4xnWqijWbPQCLcB/s400/DSC02275.webp" width="265" />&nbsp;</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Once we were home, one napped and one didn't. Let's just say the one who has been fussing all day isn't the one who napped. Even though she needed it. Late in the afternoon we went outside to enjoy some more time outdoors. I found some spray sidewalk chalk in the Target Dollar Bins a few weeks ago and went ahead and purchased for some summer fun. And for $4, it was well worth the money. We ALL had so much fun creating fun art in the driveway.<br /><br />I sorta made or attempted to make an American Flag. The red sidewalk chalk ended up more like pink. The girls and Terry worked on decorating the inside of a heart. Once I finished my sad attempt on the flag, the girls came over to add to it. So after all was said and done (and after the picture below was taken, it was red, blue, pink and green. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-Tf43GK-OnT0/WStWbiQVFiI/AAAAAAAAPNY/PBZLjRWRXf8YgWc1jUcaYUhQwOpNA1e2wCEw/s1600/IMG_3539.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="/-Tf43GK-OnT0/WStWbiQVFiI/AAAAAAAAPNY/PBZLjRWRXf8YgWc1jUcaYUhQwOpNA1e2wCEw/s640/IMG_3539.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-z8k0cjE93bw/WStWbJu29YI/AAAAAAAAPNU/e3AKwkor9G4_lsAc2dcuElryLbt4MGoRACEw/s1600/IMG_3536.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-z8k0cjE93bw/WStWbJu29YI/AAAAAAAAPNU/e3AKwkor9G4_lsAc2dcuElryLbt4MGoRACEw/s400/IMG_3536.webp" width="266" /></a><a href="/-5OE9a86VZhw/WStWcvS0DGI/AAAAAAAAPNg/7JpjUVpnJ4E4kfvl7yKECsVeAx7X-UcHACEw/s1600/IMG_3541.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-5OE9a86VZhw/WStWcvS0DGI/AAAAAAAAPNg/7JpjUVpnJ4E4kfvl7yKECsVeAx7X-UcHACEw/s400/IMG_3541.webp" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-iX-p57U5XH4/WStWdbrxDKI/AAAAAAAAPNo/pbfgP2zGuQkqx3r7tZlA93SCOqxKceyGQCEw/s1600/IMG_3543.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-iX-p57U5XH4/WStWdbrxDKI/AAAAAAAAPNo/pbfgP2zGuQkqx3r7tZlA93SCOqxKceyGQCEw/s400/IMG_3543.webp" width="266" /></a><a href="/-ODype13dB4U/WStWczEavyI/AAAAAAAAPNk/RilvpGyhAFMmXYsdMeo5Pbw70vxZM0gRwCEw/s1600/IMG_3542.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-ODype13dB4U/WStWczEavyI/AAAAAAAAPNk/RilvpGyhAFMmXYsdMeo5Pbw70vxZM0gRwCEw/s400/IMG_3542.webp" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-eYyBgVGotMY/WStWV32ThoI/AAAAAAAAPNE/Jn8ve5pxoC05r5uJBR4IYG0jxrHclSOjwCEw/s1600/IMG_3532.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="/-eYyBgVGotMY/WStWV32ThoI/AAAAAAAAPNE/Jn8ve5pxoC05r5uJBR4IYG0jxrHclSOjwCEw/s640/IMG_3532.webp" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/--g7dKIPxP7E/WStWaPP4uoI/AAAAAAAAPNM/ggLqaGxPQcED4V9O7pXaudavddGw4U6WgCEw/s1600/IMG_3534.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="/--g7dKIPxP7E/WStWaPP4uoI/AAAAAAAAPNM/ggLqaGxPQcED4V9O7pXaudavddGw4U6WgCEw/s640/IMG_3534.webp" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-TwNQw4a95oI/WStWaOKA4mI/AAAAAAAAPNI/bm0_t4zs2XIhbxYDNtAfJeWn4DMbihJ-wCEw/s1600/IMG_3533.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-TwNQw4a95oI/WStWaOKA4mI/AAAAAAAAPNI/bm0_t4zs2XIhbxYDNtAfJeWn4DMbihJ-wCEw/s400/IMG_3533.webp" width="266" /></a><a href="/-5OUUHCL4ZPc/WStWau2MaUI/AAAAAAAAPNQ/1G0AQO3X7jkQx3cchXWKg6NxI2zFd1TmQCEw/s1600/IMG_3535.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="/-5OUUHCL4ZPc/WStWau2MaUI/AAAAAAAAPNQ/1G0AQO3X7jkQx3cchXWKg6NxI2zFd1TmQCEw/s400/IMG_3535.webp" width="266" /></a></div><br />We're having a great weekend, but are humbled for the men and women who gave their all for our great country!<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/WdLlwAQJsXs" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]3http://www.sowelllife.com/2017/05/zoo-fun-spray-chalk-art.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-53637680103430247502017-05-23T18:30:00.:002017-05-23T18:30:32.174-05:00We've got a big birthday coming up in our house for a certain two year old! Sometimes I feel like Little Bit was just born, and at other times it seems like she's been a part of this family forever.<br /><br />We are keeping it low key this year with a family party, and then we are inviting some of our close family friends over the week of her birthday to help her celebrate. I've already started buying some of her presents, but of course, everyone is asking me what they should get her. So, I thought I'll post some of the things she likes, and some of the things we (or other family members) are getting her.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-QC8t1CBkC5k/WSTBWqx_QfI/AAAAAAAAPMg/PK9T0inkHZoK5r2SgdEHac5QS0aHHhmugCLcB/s1600/twoyeargiftguide.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-QC8t1CBkC5k/WSTBWqx_QfI/AAAAAAAAPMg/PK9T0inkHZoK5r2SgdEHac5QS0aHHhmugCLcB/s640/twoyeargiftguide.webp" width="538" /></a></div><br /><br />1 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Toddler Shopping Cart</b></span> Our little girl LOVES to push a play shopping cart at her grandparents house. It's also about fourteen years old, so they found this one online and are gifting her this version for her birthday. She's going to be so excited to have one at her house to play! If you have a little one who loves to shop, don't miss out on this little play shopping cart. It's on sale right now over on <a href="http://amzn.to/2qMtWo8" target="_blank">Amazon</a>!<br /><br />2 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Waffle Blocks {Farm}</b></span> I'll be honest, I've never wanted Legos in our house. But, I really feel like these will be hit with both of our girls. I went ahead and purchased this set for her birthday about a month ago and since our girls love the farm so much, I see endless hours of them playing with the blocks and animals. Purchase this exact set over on <a href="http://amzn.to/2q988nK" target="_blank">Amazon</a>, today!<br /><br />3 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Paw Patrol Foam Puzzle</b></span> We already own the Minnie Mouse version like this, so I know she's going to love this Paw Patrol puzzle. She can actually put the Minnie one together by herself. Paw Patrol is a new show she's just started watching, and one both she and her sister now love. You can get this one for under $10 at <a href="http://amzn.to/2qeeEpl" target="_blank">Amazon</a>. If your little one would rather have the Minnie or Frozen puzzle, those can be purchased <a href="http://amzn.to/2rxOJg2" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://amzn.to/2rxMKs5" target="_blank">here</a>. Come to think of it, I think we will add the Frozen version to our collection, too!!<br /><br />4 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Wooden Building Blocks</b></span> I know I already have waffle blocks listed, but these are different and are like the ones they have at school. Both of our girls loves to build with blocks, and I'm sad to say we don't currently own any. But we are about to remedy that! I love the bright colors, and the different shapes! I can't wait to see how tall their first tower is! Get your set for your kids or grand kids at <a href="http://amzn.to/2qekB5v" target="_blank">Amazon</a>.<br /><br />5 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Baby Doll High Chair</b></span> We have a lot of baby dolls in this house. And the girls love to take care of them. Up until here recently, they've been using their high chair for their baby dolls to use. Well, we said goodbye to the high chair and they were crushed because they couldn't play with it anymore. This is perfect for their playroom and will go great with the <a href="http://amzn.to/2qei4IH" target="_blank">triple bunk beds</a> they already have in their room! We will be ordering this one from <a href="http://amzn.to/2rO2FA3" target="_blank">Amazon</a>.<br /><br />If you've ever gone shopping with kids, you know it can be a hassle because they want E V E R Y T H I N G in sight. So Amazon Prime is the way I shop. I'm so thankful I can order and have most items within two days. We even have Sunday delivery where we live!<br /><br />Let me know if you have these items for your toddlers, or if you order them. I can't wait to see Little Bit's face when she opens these!<br /><br />Happy Shopping, y'all! <br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/WoZ5vdpygyg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]2http://www.sowelllife.com/2017/05/two-year-old-gift-ideas.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-64176270706041521912017-05-20T16:59:00.:002017-05-23T14:42:40.145-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-znGcygXUi4c/WSCuuaZD1WI/AAAAAAAAPMQ/80QTlEwdx04o2OJwcJ1D-7mw-qQFX_fMACLcB/s1600/itcosmeticsheader.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="/-znGcygXUi4c/WSCuuaZD1WI/AAAAAAAAPMQ/80QTlEwdx04o2OJwcJ1D-7mw-qQFX_fMACLcB/s640/itcosmeticsheader.webp" width="640" /></a></div>I'm not sure any female will admit that they don't love makeup. But, I bet more than half are still looking for their favorite brand. I was one of those half until November 2015. That's the year it all changed for me. The house was all decorated for Christmas and to get in the mood for buying gifts, I started watching QVC. That day happened to have an It Cosmetics special value featured. I watched that segment and ordered. When it came in, I loved everything! I loved how it was applied, how it looked on my face, and have it felt and wore on my face all day. However, it didn't come with one of my now favorites from It Cosmetics, their CC+ Full Coverage Cream. But, it did come with a sample of it and I as soon as I tried it, I knew it was the right makeup for me.<br /><br />I'm an "It Girl" and proud to be one. This isn't a sponsored post, although I'd love it if they sent me some new products to try. This is simply a post because I get so many compliments on my makeup everyday. And, it literally takes less than ten minutes to put on from start to finish. Probably less time most days cause let's be honest, with two kids three and under no one has time to be a makeup artist.<br /><br />Here are my must haves from It Cosmetics. I wear or use these products everyday. And you can get yours at QVC, Sephora, or Ulta. Some are only at one or two of those stores, but I'll try to tell you which ones when I post below about them.<br />&nbsp; <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-puPi0MDRBzY/WSCt9c4KbFI/AAAAAAAAPME/DA536B80GysHcAjV8nAIKbLixe_j6VejwCLcB/s1600/ItCosmetics.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-puPi0MDRBzY/WSCt9c4KbFI/AAAAAAAAPME/DA536B80GysHcAjV8nAIKbLixe_j6VejwCLcB/s640/ItCosmetics.webp" width="465" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Bye Bye Under Eye Illumination</b></span> This concealer is my magic wand. Seriously. Once I became a mom, my dark circles became my enemy. But this product keeps them at bay. I wear "light" because I like for it to be one step lighter than my makeup so it gives a little highlighter affect. I know this is sold at <a href="http://www.qvc.com/IT-Cosmetics-Bye-Bye-Under-Eye-Illumination-with-Brush.product.A280477.html?sc=SRCH" target="_blank">QVC</a> and it even comes with a brush, but it can also be purchased at <a href="http://www.sephora.com/bye-bye-under-eye-illumination-full-coverage-anti-aging-waterproof-concealer-P411402?skuId=1868280&amp;icid2=products%20grid:p411402" target="_blank">Sephora</a>. And that one little tube will last you half the year, even if you wear it everyday.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Je Ne Sais Quoi Complexion Perfection </b></span>Blush, Bye Bye Pores, Highlighter and Bronzer all in one! I'll be honest, I don't use the Bye Bye Pores much — but the others are well used, everyday. I use the bronzer under my cheek bone, the blush on my cheeks and the highlighter just about my cheek. I've purchased this at <a href="http://www.ulta.com/je-ne-sais-quoi-complexion-perfection?productId=xlsImpprod14831135" target="_blank">Ulta</a>, and will probably have to go back for more, soon!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>CC+ Full Coverage Cream Illumination </b></span>You know those filters on snapchat, or what's worse, those apps you buy to make your face look flawless? You don't have to use those anymore with this gem. It's lightweight, covers everything, and it only takes one pump. I apply it with an It Cosmetics brush like number 8. It stays on ALL day, even in the summer when I sweat or swim. AND, it has SPF 50+! Score! I wear light in the winter/spring and medium in the summer/fall. I get it at <a href="http://www.ulta.com/cc-cream-illumination-spf-50?productId=xlsImpprod12251079" target="_blank">Ulta</a>, <a href="http://www.sephora.com/your-skin-but-better-cc-illumination-cream-spf-50-P411884?skuId=1869015&amp;icid2=products%20grid:p411884" target="_blank">Sephora</a> or <a href="http://www.qvc.com/IT-Cosmetics-Full-Coverage-SPF-50-CC-Cream-Illumination-w-Plush-Brush.product.A266440.html?sc=SRCH" target="_blank">QVC</a>. (If you order at QVC, it's about $5 more and you get a brush to apply it with!) This small tube lasts me at least six months, sometimes longer — and I wear it everyday.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Bye Bye Lines Serium </b></span>Okay, I'll be honest. I got this as a sample and fell in love. It's not a miracle worker, but it does help with the fine lines around my eyes and mouth. It's pricey, but I got a full bottle in a QVC special value. Otherwise I probably wouldn't have bought a bottle. But, I'm glad it came with it — I kinda fell in love with it! Buy it at <a href="http://www.qvc.com/IT-Cosmetics-Bye-Bye-Lines-Advanced-Anti--Aging-Smoothing-Serum.product.A286625.html?sc=SRCH" target="_blank">QVC</a> or <a href="http://www.sephora.com/bye-bye-lines-serum-advanced-anti-aging-wrinkle-smoothing-miracle-concentrate-P411398?skuId=1868199&amp;icid2=products%20grid:p411398" target="_blank">Sephora</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>5 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Superhero Mascara </b></span>Holy lashes, y'all. And I'm not talking about the clumpy flaky lashes either. This mascara should be in everyone's makeup bag. Long, beautiful, lushus lashes. What every girl wants, right? My only issue is that it's not waterproof. Sold at <a href="http://www.qvc.com/IT-Cosmetics-Superhero-Elastic-Stretch-Volumizing-Mascara-Duo.product.A266445.html?sc=SRCH" target="_blank">QVC</a> (as a set of two for only $26!), <a href="http://www.sephora.com/superhero-elastic-stretch-volumizing-mascara-P411396?skuId=1868215&amp;keyword=IT%20COSMETICS%20Superhero%C2%99%20Elastic%20Stretch%20Volumizing%20Mascara" target="_blank">Sephora</a> and <a href="http://www.ulta.com/superhero-elastic-stretch-volumizing-mascara?productId=xlsImpprod13631067" target="_blank">Ulta</a>.<br /><br />6 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Brow Power Super Skinny </b></span>I've used their regular Brow Power pencil since 2015, but I decided to go with this one since you can pick your hair color. The universal pencil color works for me, but I really like this Super Skinny one better. I have really thin eyebrows, and this makes them fuller and more visible without looking fake or drawn on. You can purchase at <a href="http://www.qvc.com/IT-Cosmetics-Brow-Power-Super-Skinny-Pencil-%26-Brow-Power-Lift-Duo.product.A274400.html?sc=SRCH" target="_blank">QVC</a> and <a href="http://www.ulta.com/brow-power-super-skinny?productId=xlsImpprod13511167&amp;_requestid=19298665" target="_blank">Ulta</a>.<br /><br />7 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Confidence in a Cream </b></span>Hello hydration! Literally my favorite moisturizer, ever. Lightweight, not greasy, and won't break you out. Now that's what I call a win win! I don't wear it during the day under my makeup, but you can. I love to put it on once I've washed my face and am getting ready for bed. I've purchased at <a href="http://www.qvc.com/qvc.product.A274394.html?sc=PSCH" target="_blank">QVC</a>, <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/a/_/Ntt-Confidence%20in%20a%20Cream%20Moisturizing%20Super%20Cream?ciSelector=searchResults" target="_blank">Ulta</a> and <a href="http://www.sephora.com/search/search.jsp?keyword=IT%20COSMETICS%20Confidence%20in%20a%20Cream%C2%99%20Transforming%20Moisturizing%20Super%20Cream&amp;mode=all" target="_blank">Sephora</a>.<br /><br />8 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>It Cosmetics Brushes </b></span>I couldn't pick a favorite brush, because I use so many of their heavenly brushes and I love them all. I have one for my CC+ Full Coverage Cream, Complexion Perfection, and a powder brush. Check out all the It Cosmetics brushes at <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/a/_/Ntt-IT%20Cosmetics%20Brushes?ciSelector=searchResults" target="_blank">Ulta</a>. You can't go wrong with any of them!<br /><br />9 - <span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Bye Bye Makeup </b></span>Hands down, my favorite makeup remover, ever! It removes it all. Just a little to melt in your fingers, rub all over your face, including your eye lids, and it is all gone. Now, I go through this probably everything three months. But it's one simple step, so I'm not buying multiple bottles of stuff to get my makeup off. So worth the money! Only sold at <a href="http://www.qvc.com/qvc.product.A277965.html?sc=PSCH" target="_blank">QVC</a> and <a href="http://www.sephora.com/bye-bye-makeup-3-in-1-makeup-melting-cleansing-balm-P411399?skuId=1864032&amp;keyword=IT%20COSMETICS%20Bye%20Bye%20Makeup%C2%99%203-in-1%20Makeup%20Melting%20Cleansing%20Balm" target="_blank">Sephora</a>.<br /><br />They have so many other products that I love and use, but these are my everyday favorites. I'm not QVC addict, but I do like to watch them during Christmas and that's how I found out about It Cosmetics. Now, I get an email when they will air their products or have a special value coming up with their products. I'll be honest, I hate that I can't get all my favorites at both Ulta and Sephora, but they've sold exclusive products to them — so I'm thankful we have both close to us. Sometimes I just can't wait for an order to be shipped to me. Ha!<br /><br />Have you tried It Cosmetics? What are your favorites?<br /><script type="text/javascript">amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "joyhsowell-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "search"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_title = "Shop Related Products"; amzn_assoc_default_search_phrase = "it cosmetics"; amzn_assoc_default_category = "All"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "8dd680d7767d733f07255d6264eb4776"; amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true"; amzn_assoc_search_bar_position = "top"; </script><script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/unOdMW6f4g8" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]2http://www.sowelllife.com/2017/05/ItCosmetics.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-25089809288192990052017-05-17T07:00:00.:002017-05-23T14:41:30.:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-F3sra_wHkSg/WRpIPR7FjaI/AAAAAAAAPLk/B-ldSOGwV6IGJapeMkRls3T5eS4ujtoVgCEw/s1600/IMG_3189.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="/-F3sra_wHkSg/WRpIPR7FjaI/AAAAAAAAPLk/B-ldSOGwV6IGJapeMkRls3T5eS4ujtoVgCEw/s640/IMG_3189.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Our menu seems to revolve around one main ingredient, chicken. I'm always trying to find new ways to cook it so we aren't eating the same kind of chicken dish every single night. Of course we have our favorites that are one dish meals like Plain Chicken's <a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/2015/04/cracked-out-chicken-bubble-up.html" target="_blank">Cracked Out Chicken Bubble Up</a> and her <a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/2015/10/french-onion-chicken-and-rice-bake.html" target="_blank">French Onion Chicken and Rice</a>. It also helps if it's easy to make, and it uses ingredients we already have around the house. And, since this recipe calls for it to be made in the crockpot, I've got one word for you — score!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-NS4on6_0lQw/WRpKyAJBdoI/AAAAAAAAPLc/cyC772mFzkINg58st6ux67snAwS9Y2LBwCEw/s1600/IMG_3186-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-NS4on6_0lQw/WRpKyAJBdoI/AAAAAAAAPLc/cyC772mFzkINg58st6ux67snAwS9Y2LBwCEw/s640/IMG_3186-1.webp" width="426" /></a></div><br />For this recipe, you can eat the chicken breasts like they are once they are finished cooking, or you can pull the chicken apart once they are ready. Once you've shredded the chicken, let it soak in the sauce for about fifteen minutes and build your sandwich! The hubs likes mustard and sweet pickles on his pulled chicken sandwich. We paired our sandwich with homemade potato salad and baked beans. Yum!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-9ZUNvnM4w-w/WRpIYdu6ajI/AAAAAAAAPLQ/mmJkF9PLUYYO-briYD0H0FWKxycWMYWfwCEw/s1600/IMG_3188-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-9ZUNvnM4w-w/WRpIYdu6ajI/AAAAAAAAPLQ/mmJkF9PLUYYO-briYD0H0FWKxycWMYWfwCEw/s640/IMG_3188-1.webp" width="426" /></a></div><br />Ingredients:<br />3-4 boneless chicken breasts (frozen or thawed)<br />2 cups of your favorite BBQ sauce<br />1 cup of italian dressing<br />1 tsp of paparika<br />1 tsp of garlic powder<br />1 tsp of chili powder<br />1 tsp of red pepper flakes<br /><br />Directions:<br />Set your crockpot on low. Add all ingredients and cook for three to four hours.<br />(If using frozen chicken, add two additional hours to the cook time.)<br /><br />Enjoy y'all!<br /><br /><br /><script type="text/javascript">amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "joyhsowell-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "search"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_title = "Shop Related Products"; amzn_assoc_default_search_phrase = "crockpots"; amzn_assoc_default_category = "All"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "8dd680d7767d733f07255d6264eb4776"; amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true"; amzn_assoc_search_bar_position = "top"; </script><script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/A4mwTO98gxM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]3http://www.sowelllife.com/2017/05/crockpot-bbq-chicken.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-65932080352328434842016-04-24T15:15:00.:002016-04-24T15:15:04.334-05:00The girls received some books in the mail this past week from <a href="http://candlewick.com/" target="_blank">Candlewick Press</a>. And y'all know us, we LOVE books. As soon as we opened the package, they had to flip through them and then have us read to them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-c2tzcZPQ2j0/Vx0KVyc-XpI/AAAAAAAAPEA/qDChi1DFwYgGVd6zfROzP1Wg1gkFsYOiACLcB/s1600/IMG_5191-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="/-c2tzcZPQ2j0/Vx0KVyc-XpI/AAAAAAAAPEA/qDChi1DFwYgGVd6zfROzP1Wg1gkFsYOiACLcB/s640/IMG_5191-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Whos-Hungry-Dean-Hacohen/dp/076366586X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1461520024&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=who%27s+hungry" target="_blank">Who's Hungry</a>? is an interactive book where you can flip the flaps and feed the animals. The girls couldn't take their eyes off of the pages with its bright colors and big words. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Whos-Hungry-Dean-Hacohen/dp/076366586X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1461520024&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=who%27s+hungry" target="_blank">Who's Hungry</a>? also teaches the girls what certain animals like to eat. We've already read it multiple times in just a week!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tuck-Me-Dean-Hacohen/dp//ref=sr_1_1?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1461520403&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=tuck+me+in" target="_blank">Tuck Me In!</a> is another interactive book only this time they are turning the page to tuck the baby animals in. And while most kid books that have animals in them have dogs, cats, ducks, etc.; <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tuck-Me-Dean-Hacohen/dp//ref=sr_1_1?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1461520403&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=tuck+me+in" target="_blank">Tuck Me In!</a> has different animals for the kids to learn about. It's filled with bright colors and big words that my girls really enjoy. I have a feeling before long, one of them will be reading this book to us!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-rMpmuSuU2X0/Vx0kptqg-zI/AAAAAAAAPEg/aZqgnOHhkLQUQFMjQeDHngPVVML72Bx_QCLcB/s1600/bookCollage.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-rMpmuSuU2X0/Vx0kptqg-zI/AAAAAAAAPEg/aZqgnOHhkLQUQFMjQeDHngPVVML72Bx_QCLcB/s640/bookCollage.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>If you are looking for new books for you littles, we highly recommend <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Whos-Hungry-Dean-Hacohen/dp/076366586X/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_2?ie=UTF8&amp;refRID=03A930HTH6P5556C0S88" target="_blank">Who's Hungry?</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tuck-Me-Dean-Hacohen/dp//ref=sr_1_1?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1461520403&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=tuck+me+in" target="_blank">Tuck Me In!</a>&nbsp;Author Dean Hacohen and illustrator Sherry Scharschmidt did an amazing job bringing these books to life! And the print quality is made so that you'll have these books around for a long time to come!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-Y_GplexT7I4/Vx0jH3Fr_NI/AAAAAAAAPEQ/gjJuHdkud40Iy3DsVhMw9kCryyeaGv1EgCLcB/s1600/IMG_5190-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-Y_GplexT7I4/Vx0jH3Fr_NI/AAAAAAAAPEQ/gjJuHdkud40Iy3DsVhMw9kCryyeaGv1EgCLcB/s640/IMG_5190-1.webp" width="512" /></a></div><br />And, because we love our readers... we are going to send one of these books to you for your kids or grandkids to enjoy. The winner will be chosen at the end of the week, and contacted. Once we hear from the winner we will let them select which book they want and we will get one sent to you the following week.<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a class="promosimple" data-campaign="977b" href="https://promosimple.com/ps/977b"></a><script src="https://promosimple.com/api/1.0/campaign/977b/iframe-loader" type="text/javascript"></script></div><br /><br />A huge thank you to Candlewick for sending the books for us to review. You can find Candlewick on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CandlewickPressBooks/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/candlewick" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/candlewickpress/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. And follow author Dean Hacohen on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tuckmeinbook/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.<br /><br />Happy Reading, y'all!<br /><img align="left" src="/albums/af319/laralheis/822356f7.webp" style="border: 0;" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/wXOixoBv8JQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]2http://www.sowelllife.com/2016/04/whos-hungry-tuck-me-in.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-79696782579286427072016-04-15T09:35:00.:002016-04-15T09:35:35.396-05:00A few weeks ago you'll remember I posted that <a href="http://www.sowelllife.com/2016/03/watch-my-garden-grow.html" target="_blank">Avery's Ganny and Papa helped her plant a mini garden</a> for this year. She's been really good to water her plants and take care of them. And this week, we saw that the seeds have sprouted!<br /><br />She has two squash seeds that have sprouted, and a lot of the carrot seeds have come up, too! When Ganny and Papa come back, we will have to replant them so they can continue to grow!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-xbNWOakiy6Q/VxD7mGw6c_I/AAAAAAAAPDg/voX3oMJYid8vXUEcW_C35os7Xt2y1EV8gCKgB/s1600/DSC01061-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="/-xbNWOakiy6Q/VxD7mGw6c_I/AAAAAAAAPDg/voX3oMJYid8vXUEcW_C35os7Xt2y1EV8gCKgB/s640/DSC01061-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-uGW1Svo3KdM/VxD7l2Y5fVI/AAAAAAAAPDc/4f67ilgbvJMwJ_D5ZMfqIi4hJ-aGXQkNwCKgB/s1600/DSC01064-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="/-uGW1Svo3KdM/VxD7l2Y5fVI/AAAAAAAAPDc/4f67ilgbvJMwJ_D5ZMfqIi4hJ-aGXQkNwCKgB/s640/DSC01064-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-_sGEGOj1cl4/VxD7mLTOmVI/AAAAAAAAPDk/nWHwA96xViETSOKRL9fomxefIfT3trYcwCKgB/s1600/DSC01066-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="/-_sGEGOj1cl4/VxD7mLTOmVI/AAAAAAAAPDk/nWHwA96xViETSOKRL9fomxefIfT3trYcwCKgB/s640/DSC01066-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-R9rSjB4lRe4/VxD7nFiZFlI/AAAAAAAAPDo/-iLB5liBSu09UZtP1ffqc4U_v6YrV1gQgCKgB/s1600/DSC01067-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-R9rSjB4lRe4/VxD7nFiZFlI/AAAAAAAAPDo/-iLB5liBSu09UZtP1ffqc4U_v6YrV1gQgCKgB/s640/DSC01067-1.webp" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-mboqf5T7cgk/VxD7nl1an0I/AAAAAAAAPDs/_iKH7SlV4-gTqc1HdoY5adLyBIWq2MA1ACKgB/s1600/DSC01079-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="/-mboqf5T7cgk/VxD7nl1an0I/AAAAAAAAPDs/_iKH7SlV4-gTqc1HdoY5adLyBIWq2MA1ACKgB/s640/DSC01079-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><img align="left" src="/albums/af319/laralheis/822356f7.webp" style="border: 0px;" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/nxfbV1yi3ZU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]2http://www.sowelllife.com/2016/04/watch-my-garden-grow-update.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-51833175673448637302016-04-11T14:00:00.:002016-04-11T14:00:04.584-05:00Easter weekend was spent in Huntsville, Ala. this year. We have family who live there, and when Clare and Kegan wanted me to shoot their engagement session, we thought Easter weekend would be perfect.<br /><br />All of the pictures were shot in Downtown Huntsville. We parked and just walked. It was a lot of fun, especially since this was the first time for me to see everything downtown.<br /><br />Clare and Kegan will be married in just a few short months. Not only are they getting married, but moving to a new city, too. We can't wait to see what all the next few years have in store for them in Nashville! And we can't wait till Kegan is officially part of the family.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-achrCZghIus/VwvulJCvPSI/AAAAAAAAPCM/YQaK6eP3bQ09Z1-KzmQRRLuEUP8McnULQ/s1600/DSC09839-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="/-achrCZghIus/VwvulJCvPSI/AAAAAAAAPCM/YQaK6eP3bQ09Z1-KzmQRRLuEUP8McnULQ/s640/DSC09839-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-SlKnRFagwVc/VwvuzWglV6I/AAAAAAAAPCQ/bx_-pV_kHXk2rM9HT3rowbWdf7FhS-hcQ/s1600/DSC09855-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="/-SlKnRFagwVc/VwvuzWglV6I/AAAAAAAAPCQ/bx_-pV_kHXk2rM9HT3rowbWdf7FhS-hcQ/s640/DSC09855-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-M5DNWHpHK0I/VwvveQG_AwI/AAAAAAAAPCg/yCYItA1nY4wdAZV1MAx643iywx5lhRrUQ/s640/DSC00022-1.webp" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-PSplH33v96E/VwvvqBFJx1I/AAAAAAAAPCk/RFyW_hOLaO8qb9nbIoLE_ciYadO70JfjQ/s1600/DSC00101-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-PSplH33v96E/VwvvqBFJx1I/AAAAAAAAPCk/RFyW_hOLaO8qb9nbIoLE_ciYadO70JfjQ/s640/DSC00101-1.webp" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-w2iWtL3WIQY/Vwvv5GEN5GI/AAAAAAAAPCo/xQiRNKluGgczNWP19mK_r29PrlSRn5Zcw/s1600/DSC00152-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="/-w2iWtL3WIQY/Vwvv5GEN5GI/AAAAAAAAPCo/xQiRNKluGgczNWP19mK_r29PrlSRn5Zcw/s640/DSC00152-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-LyW_BjCQ-Uw/VwvwIqRtiXI/AAAAAAAAPCw/WqIm6jddgBg_3v81vaT_8BuXRX_A5I_wA/s1600/DSC00162-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="/-LyW_BjCQ-Uw/VwvwIqRtiXI/AAAAAAAAPCw/WqIm6jddgBg_3v81vaT_8BuXRX_A5I_wA/s640/DSC00162-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-AHKTj4JbjDM/Vwvwd2JvVDI/AAAAAAAAPC4/oVYVVVvowKgPRnwiNngTTX4RJ6N3FlTYQ/s1600/DSC00176-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="/-AHKTj4JbjDM/Vwvwd2JvVDI/AAAAAAAAPC4/oVYVVVvowKgPRnwiNngTTX4RJ6N3FlTYQ/s640/DSC00176-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-NF6nmt7iIoQ/VwvwdwaQ4HI/AAAAAAAAPC8/JRe1Pjtjk5g7LTSwf4bPOBaPuQGs7VgcQ/s1600/DSC00178-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="/-NF6nmt7iIoQ/VwvwdwaQ4HI/AAAAAAAAPC8/JRe1Pjtjk5g7LTSwf4bPOBaPuQGs7VgcQ/s640/DSC00178-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-ESmRxwdl6PU/Vwvwsk3OuAI/AAAAAAAAPDA/Kz7HwrXdMNYzKP3knerL_SfgK3B4tHy0g/s1600/DSC00204-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-ESmRxwdl6PU/Vwvwsk3OuAI/AAAAAAAAPDA/Kz7HwrXdMNYzKP3knerL_SfgK3B4tHy0g/s640/DSC00204-1.webp" width="424" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-KAU_zR8ScQI/Vwvw0a9NFsI/AAAAAAAAPDI/bEUkXKm4LiQqoYc-uMv8tkBoofm1-HuEA/s1600/DSC00235-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-KAU_zR8ScQI/Vwvw0a9NFsI/AAAAAAAAPDI/bEUkXKm4LiQqoYc-uMv8tkBoofm1-HuEA/s640/DSC00235-1.webp" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>It won't be long and you'll be husband and wife!<br />Thanks for allowing me to capture your love in your engagement pictures.<br /><img align="left" src="/albums/af319/laralheis/822356f7.webp" style="border: 0px;" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/P3lgaVPwk4M" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]6http://www.sowelllife.com/2016/04/sowell-life-photography-clare-kegan.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-87936863221373397232016-03-31T12:51:00.:002016-03-31T12:51:05.256-05:00This week Ganny and Papa were in town to spend some time with the girls on Papa's off days from meetings. On Tuesday, Papa told Avery that he was going to help her plant a mini garden.<br /><br />So off to Lowes we went to get all the supplies needed to make this happen. (And y'all know Avery loves a shopping trip!)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-jswfmEa4gwE/Vv1g8y6PhRI/AAAAAAAAPA8/6Q2ZG-k_sXMupbIub-RCzrAlZUbfzvPIQ/s1600/DSC00434-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="/-jswfmEa4gwE/Vv1g8y6PhRI/AAAAAAAAPA8/6Q2ZG-k_sXMupbIub-RCzrAlZUbfzvPIQ/s400/DSC00434-1.webp" width="266" /></a><a href="/-Svcn0aNVBgc/Vv1g8oNYn_I/AAAAAAAAPA4/hSuWzA5CkhMP6CmDRvOf0fovnCQIpZL-A/s1600/DSC00440-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="/-Svcn0aNVBgc/Vv1g8oNYn_I/AAAAAAAAPA4/hSuWzA5CkhMP6CmDRvOf0fovnCQIpZL-A/s400/DSC00440-1.webp" width="266" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-IArpZH_fMD8/Vv1g8Bx0f6I/AAAAAAAAPA0/ndbFGpil17UYsCH1WZoBBCCG25C_YF5Vg/s1600/DSC00442-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="/-IArpZH_fMD8/Vv1g8Bx0f6I/AAAAAAAAPA0/ndbFGpil17UYsCH1WZoBBCCG25C_YF5Vg/s640/DSC00442-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />The next day, Ganny helped Avery plant her grape tomatoes and her peppers. There were also some carrot and squash seeds planted as well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-GDowYaE6S6A/Vv1hprWJ5JI/AAAAAAAAPBU/R9GGdyjMyj4VCvEnOAwswzbouLSKRmx4A/s1600/DSC00470-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="/-GDowYaE6S6A/Vv1hprWJ5JI/AAAAAAAAPBU/R9GGdyjMyj4VCvEnOAwswzbouLSKRmx4A/s640/DSC00470-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-_bNALMqb82A/Vv1hpZRSKxI/AAAAAAAAPBM/_Fti1_v-Dh0qXUUhfDJGwz9GfAYSC3DRw/s1600/DSC00478-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="/-_bNALMqb82A/Vv1hpZRSKxI/AAAAAAAAPBM/_Fti1_v-Dh0qXUUhfDJGwz9GfAYSC3DRw/s400/DSC00478-1.webp" width="266" /></a><a href="/-bLk_aonpA30/Vv1hpgXsAHI/AAAAAAAAPBQ/urOZ-5Mb1J45UwLhm6ddX7-EeCtDL4LlA/s1600/DSC00475-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="/-bLk_aonpA30/Vv1hpgXsAHI/AAAAAAAAPBQ/urOZ-5Mb1J45UwLhm6ddX7-EeCtDL4LlA/s400/DSC00475-1.webp" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-CstPbxFIDj0/Vv1hqaNhLtI/AAAAAAAAPBY/M43ok8FUidIWEUWK_q7rkCKy5oXEXiIKg/s1600/DSC00479-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-CstPbxFIDj0/Vv1hqaNhLtI/AAAAAAAAPBY/M43ok8FUidIWEUWK_q7rkCKy5oXEXiIKg/s640/DSC00479-1.webp" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And yes, little bit was out helping, too!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-MKC3t33pEus/Vv1hq8osMWI/AAAAAAAAPBc/YO6S9Pu-uqEHtKHq-0Xw7g1-MK_PpamcA/s1600/DSC00483-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="/-MKC3t33pEus/Vv1hq8osMWI/AAAAAAAAPBc/YO6S9Pu-uqEHtKHq-0Xw7g1-MK_PpamcA/s640/DSC00483-1.webp" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Marleigh was also part of the action. Avery had to take breaks and walk over to talk to her and let her know what all was going on.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-unyTaAQ0D0c/Vv1hsEN9nCI/AAAAAAAAPBo/Mnu2kuzS7t002T8kGcleIJkWz4Fw2ksag/s1600/DSC00487-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="/-unyTaAQ0D0c/Vv1hsEN9nCI/AAAAAAAAPBo/Mnu2kuzS7t002T8kGcleIJkWz4Fw2ksag/s640/DSC00487-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />We moved the plants upstairs to our screened in porch so she can water them everyday.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-Sq1_ZA4DIz0/Vv1hrisecgI/AAAAAAAAPBg/BoHCGkUXB-segbEVun6JXCXHibgSfhfjA/s1600/DSC00488-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="/-Sq1_ZA4DIz0/Vv1hrisecgI/AAAAAAAAPBg/BoHCGkUXB-segbEVun6JXCXHibgSfhfjA/s400/DSC00488-1.webp" width="266" /></a><a href="/-IFo3AHXrgGQ/Vv1hsC4YM8I/AAAAAAAAPBk/dJyUe-w6Apk-kE4Ho9uV2II2iSNDUzkTQ/s1600/DSC00499-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="/-IFo3AHXrgGQ/Vv1hsC4YM8I/AAAAAAAAPBk/dJyUe-w6Apk-kE4Ho9uV2II2iSNDUzkTQ/s400/DSC00499-1.webp" width="266" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-SrRAz-2Kbjk/Vv1hsugbyBI/AAAAAAAAPBs/MTV5_f-nRO459H7C0f9fa6aYU08A_I5BA/s1600/DSC00502-1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="/-SrRAz-2Kbjk/Vv1hsugbyBI/AAAAAAAAPBs/MTV5_f-nRO459H7C0f9fa6aYU08A_I5BA/s640/DSC00502-1.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />I think she was pretty proud of her planting.<br /><br />We can't wait to watch her garden grow!<br /><img align="left" src="/albums/af319/laralheis/822356f7.webp" style="border: 0;" /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/q3CXHj3vPao" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]2http://www.sowelllife.com/2016/03/watch-my-garden-grow.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2890535983226257882.post-54840391020606502372016-03-25T07:00:00.:002016-03-25T07:00:18.986-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-zv_XjXugeXc/VtjYonBqGvI/AAAAAAAAO5c/vuEDC-iom2I/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-03-01+at+10.19.00+AM.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="/-zv_XjXugeXc/VtjYonBqGvI/AAAAAAAAO5c/vuEDC-iom2I/s640/Screen+Shot+2016-03-01+at+10.19.00+AM.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blessed because He paid it all on the cross, and by His stripes we are healed!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blessed because whosever believeth in Him will not perish,&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">but have everlasting life!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blessed because He has entrusted us with these two precious little girls&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">who light up our life each and every day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We hope you and your family have a wonderful Easter weekend,&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and that you'll reflect on what Easter is truly about.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="/-7dJLEWasEK4/VtjaUnwUCcI/AAAAAAAAO5o/o9ZIwBuskto/s1600/the+Sowells+signature.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="103" src="/-7dJLEWasEK4/VtjaUnwUCcI/AAAAAAAAO5o/o9ZIwBuskto/s320/the+Sowells+signature.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/yDzyJ/~4/5bq2Nw0ZIbY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03956514232932544048[email protected]0http://www.sowelllife.com/2016/03/our-easter-wish-for-you.html