Resourceful Red

Its getting to be that time of year again!

2011-11-10T08:40:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is coming around and I am so excited!!
Yes I am going to be one of those weirdos this year and start decorating this weekend!
I love when the house is decorated for Christmas! It seems so much warmer and extra love is in the home.
This year we are putting up two trees!
One downstairs: fun, lots of colors, etc.
One upstairs: blue, silver, and white. all of the ornaments and decorations from our winter wedding

When are you decorating??

Pinterest: I am an addict

2011-08-29T12:42:00.000-07:00

I have an obsession.

I guess its not the most unhealthy obsession.

But an obsession at that.

I can't stop pinning.

I can't stop

making

creating

trying

baking

cooking

the pins I am pinning.

My name is Red and I am a Pinterest Addict.

There I said it.

Are you following me??

Apparently I took a blog break

2011-08-28T08:21:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

Apparently I took an unexpected blogging break.

But much needed for that matter.

I have just been absolutely exhausted lately and have really been focusing on taking care of myself and family.

What is truly important in this life.

Ya, know?

Anyway, its Sunday.

A day of relaxing. A day of reflection.

Sunday is family day for me.

What about you?

Sunday means a good meal to sit and share together: as a family.

A day to enjoy each other's company.

A day to give thanks for the week and pray for a healthy and happy week ahead.

Today we are having a hearty pasta dinner.

Ground meat tomato sauce, fun springy noodles, gooey mozzarella cheese, and warm baked bread.

Maybe a nice hot cup of tea to end the night before we curl up in bed, early.

Sunday is my perfect day.

What does Sunday mean to you?

BACK!!

2011-08-11T12:11:00.001-07:00

hello everyone!

i am back!

we had a wonderful vacation...

...got to be part of one of my best friends gorgeous wedding...

....and now we are home!

believe it or not, i didn't take a single picture while i was gone

i know that makes you all sad!

but my grandma and a few friends did, so i will share as soon as i can.

whats everyone been up to??

Guest Blog: Sarah from Racing Towards Joy

2011-08-05T10:28:00.000-07:00

Hey there Red’s Readers, I’m Sarah!

I am so excited to share just a little snippet of me today and feel honored that I get to guest blog here on Resourceful Red!

You can find me over at my pocket of the blog world…

Racing Towards Joy.

After Kristin (“Red”)  asked me to share, I have been kind of at a loss of what to write. I guess some would call that “writer’s block”

(not quite sure if I consider myself a writer)

but anyhow, I guess I have been suffering

from “blogger’s block”.

But that got me to thinking…

Why do I share anything at all?

Why do I read other people’s blogs?

Why am I so stirred to hear other people’s stories?

Why does it bless me so much to

receive encouragement from complete strangers?

Why do YOU read blogs or blog yourself?

Maybe you have been touched deeply by someone sharing their story, so you continue to go back for more.

Maybe you have a blog or shop and are trying to connect with other bloggers.

Maybe you have a specific story you want to share.

Or maybe you just need to kill some time while you’re sitting at your computer avoiding work.

It doesn’t matter, whatever the reason.

I recently posted about “Why I Blog”.

(you can check it out over at my bloggy home if you wish!)

I talked about how important it is to SHARE.

And how impactful it can be to you and to others.

Just like watching the news,

reading facebook or twitter statuses,

chatting on the phone or over coffee with a friend,

or whatever communication outlet we use,

I think that we as people are drawn to hearing each other’s stories,

And sharing our own.

I believe it does our heart good to share what is happening in our life,

if we feel so led.

I have found much comfort in reading other women’s journeys of dealing with miscarriage, and it brought healing to write out my own.

I am encouraged by the bloggers who so openly share about how God has provided for them in the midst of major money issues, as He has done for us countless times.

I am reassured by the moms who share candidly about the adjustment in becoming a mommy or in dealing with a toddler.

And I love just having daily real-life stories to read about, as we all walk through this life together.

Maybe this will encourage you to think about why you blog, or why you read blogs.

(or maybe why you should start a blog!)

Whatever the reason…

we need each other.

Even if we don’t know each other personally,

It is a good thing, a blessing, to share life with each other.

I would say it’s vital.

With that said, thanks for letting me share with you!

Id love to share more, so pop on over anytime,

Our door is always open!!

Love, Sarah

Things I Love Tuesday

2011-08-02T05:35:00.000-07:00

Things I love Tuesday: Around My House

my wedding flowers

i had a winter wedding, so i chose an ornament to hang from the bouquet

the hydrangeas on my kitchen table

i cut them from my front flower beds

my great-grandmothers dishes

apparently they were from the bank she banked at.

just a few little things i love in my home!!

Guest Blogger: Danielle from Changing Lanes

2011-08-01T08:56:00.000-07:00

Hello! I'm Danielle and I blog at Changing Lanes. I left a career in the financial world :: to stay at home with my three.littles. I began to blog several months ago ~ as a way to document our growing family. Blogging has turned from a occasional hobby, to my own (at.home) business venture. I am sharing my love for vintage through an online Etsy shop, am working on an up.cycled product line and have most recently partnered with popular blogger Casey.Wiegand to provide blog design services.

When I am not blogging, I realistically spend most of my time cleaning up after my.littles. But, we do TRY to pack in as much fun as possible. Park.Pool.Baseball.Cars.Doggies.Thrift.Music + much more!

Since I totally have a crush on vintage, I will share that if I could live in any other decade :: it would be The Jazz Age. I pass by the home of F.Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald every day. I am often compared to Daisy from The Great Gatsby. As I walk around the giant Oaks in our home.town, Zelda's home.town ~ I often wonder if I am :: where she was. Maybe so. Anyhoo, hope to see you around. Thanks for having me and nice meeting you!

Guest Post: Alexandra Rose

2011-07-28T05:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Resourceful Red readers!

Since I'm new here, I thought I'd introduce myself so we can get to know each other a little better.

My name is Alex, and I blog over at Alexandra Rose!

I'm a wife, mommy, etsy shop owner, crafter and blogger!

I blog about my journey as a mom

fun recipes

DIY projects & tutorials

And tips on living green!

We live in Oregon,

so in our free time,

we're outdoors :)

These two make my world go 'round

Come join us in the craziness that is life, over at the blog.

Oh, and while you're at it,

go pick yourself up one {or 6} of Red's Rosies

Love mine :)

Thanks for having me, Kristin!

Guest Blogger: Casey Wiegand

2011-07-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

My name is Casey Wiegand, I am a freelance artist, wife and mama.

I love painting and sharing our life through my blog...where you can expect pieces of my perspective on life, faith, kids, marriage, with touches of art, creative inspiration, projects and things I love along the way. I have two little ones in the hopes of lots more and am married to the love of my life!

MY FAVORITES ARE

SUMMER KISSES

POOL DAYS

PLAYING DRESS UP

YARD FUN

RUNNING IN THE SUN

WAGON RIDES

SUMMER NAPS

& CATCHING FROGS :)

small things make me sad

2011-07-20T16:54:00.000-07:00

yesterday i realized that some of the smallest little things

make me sad.

after Baby Boy headed to bed, I logged on to catch up on some of my favorite blogs.

username:_****

password: __****

logged in!

to my ~~surprise~~ dismay

i lost two followers.

ok, your thinking no big deal.

but it is to me.

two followers.

two people out there thought

"wow, this blog is boring and i am done"

unfollow.

or perhaps they were just simply

following

in hopes to win a giveaway i was (or another blog)

was promoting.

either way it saddens me.

what did i do?

what made you stop?

that's two less people that i can reach out to.

two less people that i now don't have the chance to put a smile on their faces.

i'm down two.

the smallest thing like losing two blog followers makes me sad.

WIWW & Handmade Gift Exchange

2011-07-19T17:01:00.000-07:00

what.i.wore.wednesday.

shirt: New Yok and Company

capris: Gap

shoes: Kenneth Cole REACTION

necklace: my partner from the Handmade Gift Exchange

isn't my necklace adorable!!

i participated in Craftaholics Anonymous Handmade Gift Exchange

it was so much fun!

i had two partners, this was the first gift i recieved!!

the necklace is all handmade and so lovely!

thanks again Sheila!!!

oo and have you entered this giveaway at lollipops??

children in church

2011-07-18T18:41:00.000-07:00

before i became a mom, i took for granted being able to focus in and worship

without great distraction each week at church.

then Baby Boy came along.

when he was a small babe, it was easy.

he would chill in his car seat, be snuggled, or take a bottle

easy peasy.

as he was growing, it was still not much of a challenge

until....

he became mobile.

then he wanted to walk.

ok so he stands, he plays with toys.

then he became a talker.

now he wants to walk

wants to climb,

wants to open a book and make a sound for each animal in the book,

wants to throw toys,

wants to babble for babbling sake,

wants to act out.

imagine that. a 20month old not wanting to sit still and quietly in church.

do we sit in the cry room?

no.

i really don't like the cry room.

i feel like its giving my child the 'ok' to act out.

i want him to know how to act in church.

its ok to sing along with the hymns.

its ok to babble a bit while we recite prayers.

its ok to color, or snack, or read.

but we will have church manners.

we will behave in church.

am i reaching trying to teach this to a toddler?

what do you do to entertain your child in church?

Been Busy, so a discount to you

2011-07-18T13:32:00.001-07:00

hello friends!

i have been super busy the past two days!!

sooooo....

since i have been short changing you in blog land

how about a 20%off discount to the Shop?!

code: JULY22

expires 7/22/11

enjoy :)

BBQ Pulled Pork in Crock Pot

2011-07-16T05:52:00.000-07:00

This recipe is so simple and super delicious!!

Ingredients:

1 pork roast, loin, shoulder, etc.

(basically your choice of what is on sale)

1 medium onion

1 bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce

1/4 cup water

pepper

Chop the onion into chunks or rings and place half in bottom of crock pot

Slices a few cuts into the pork to help it cook thoroughly and place on top of onions

pepper the top of the meat a bit then throw in remaining onions.

Add half a bottle of your BBQ sauce.

Add 1/4 cup of water.

Turn on Medium or High and let cook for at least 5hrs.

Check occasionally if more sauce is needed.

After 5hrs check pork and see if its cooked through and beginning to pull apart.

Once pork is cooked through, shred meat with two forks.

Add more sauce if needed.

Cook on low until ready to eat.

Serve on

buns for sandwiches

over rice

or just plain!!

ENJOY!!

be sure to check out all the recipes linked up on Casey's blog.

on my heart: improving myself

2011-07-14T17:59:00.000-07:00

the last few weeks i have realized that i have only been focusing on my strengths.

which, i realize is great that i recognize my strengths.

but, at the same time, i have been neglecting my weaknesses.

i have been avoiding my weaknesses.

staying within my comfort zone, i guess.

so on sunday this past week, i made a promise to myself.

a promise that i would recognize one weakness and focus on improving it each week.

this week, i focused on

meal planning and cooking.

i like to cook.

and i am really not bad at it.

i just haven't been adventurous.

i have been stuck in a rut.

planning and cooking the same things that i know i am good at.

things i know my family likes.

through the help of my {many} cookbooks,

this week we branched out.

our menu looked like this:

sunday: dinner at my parents

monday: grilled jerk pork chops (the jerk was a new addition) with grilled pineapple

tuesday: out to dinner with friends

wednesday: lemon grilled chicken with sauteed veggies and barley (never made barley before)

thursday: bbq pulled pork in the crock pot (never have done this before) rice and peas

friday: leftovers

saturday: undecided

all was a success!!

hubbs and i really liked the barley.

and we plan to add it to our meals quite frequently.

its a nice change from rice.

week 1 improvement = success

in the next few weeks i plan to improve:

my exercise regimen

my organization skills

my friendships

and maybe a few others here and there.

are there things you would like to improve on??

New in the Shop

2011-07-14T07:45:00.000-07:00

Added some

**NEW** lovelies

to the Shop!

The 8 Rosie Necklace

a bolder version of the origional Red's Rosies Statement Necklace!

comes in all colors

The Rosie Hair Clips

perfect little accents to compliment any outfit

the Pink Seafoam Rosie Necklace

can't decide between the summery seafoam and hot pink??

why not both?!

the Patriotic Rosie Necklace

No better way to say "God Bless America"

(features the sky and red hot rosies)

Check out these items and others at

Red's Rosies

melt

2011-07-13T11:26:00.000-07:00

makes my heart melt

love my boys.

happy wednesday!

New Color & Item in the Shop!

2011-07-12T07:11:00.000-07:00

Introducing

RED HOT ROSIE

and the Rosie Hair Clip

$4.00

all of the lovely colors

Check them out at Red's Rosies

The Effects of Stress

2011-07-12T04:52:00.000-07:00

Over the last 3-4 months my stress level has been high. For several reasons, in fact.

Maybe I should re-word that; my stress level has been elevated.

For one reason or another.

And I have been feeling the effects of it.

Physically.

When I am stressed, I eat for comfort; thus my shorts were too tight to wear yesterday :(

When I am stressed, my face breaks out; thus the few bouts of cyctic acne I have dealt with lately.

When I am stressed, my body aches; thus the extra hot baths I have been taking to help soothe my pain.

When I am stressed, I clinch my jaw; thus the headaches that have been nagging me.

Though I have tried to cut back on these stresses,

removing them from my life,

making decisions,

choosing direction,

I am still feeling the stress.

Some stress is good, but the effects these stresses have been leaving my body to deal with are not.

The stress is hurting me.

And I've got to minimize it.

I've got to see the beauty in everything;

the positives.

have you entered this giveaway??

Purple Rosie SALE

2011-07-11T15:02:00.000-07:00

There's a

**sale**

in The Shop on this lovely

Order a Purple Rosie Necklac at

20% off

normal list price!!

Get Your's Here:

RED's ROSIES

VLOG: Questions Answered

2011-07-11T10:12:00.000-07:00

My first Vlog!!!

Baby Boy and I answered your questions!!

(thank you for those of you who emailed me)

Getting Ready for the Vlog: ABOUT ME

2011-07-10T08:20:00.000-07:00

What do you want to know about me??

I've gotten a few emails so far, but you still have the opportunity to leave a comment to ask a question!

Either here:

what do you want to know about me??

or on this post!

Still taking questions til midnight tonight!

Rosies Rosies EVERYWHERE!!!

2011-07-08T15:12:00.000-07:00

I am smiling ear to ear right now!!!!!

Why?!

Two of the most lovely women are wearing rosies!

I am so excited that Casey and Alex are sharing some love with me!

Check it out!

Casey Wiegand wearing Sky Rosies

Alex wearing Sunshine Rosies

Want some rosies of your own?

http://redsrosies.bigcartel.com/

On My Heart: Self Love

2011-07-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

I was having a conversation with a woman the other day who said she didn't love much about herself.

It got me thinking.

It made me sad.

And I am sure this woman is not the only person who thinks this way;

which makes me even more sad.

Loving youself is so important.

I don't necessairly mean in the physical sense because I know everyone would LOVE to change something about their appearance. Trust me, I do. What woman doesn't?

I mean loving yourself as a whole.

Loving the person that you are.

The adult you have grown into.

Loving the traits that make you, well you.

This all led to me sitting down and thinking about the thing I love most about myself.

My ability to love.

I love my ability to love.

Which, indeed, maybe perhaps my biggest down fall.

I love so easily.

I believe I have a big heart.

I am open to love.

All love, in all sense of the word.

In that I do love myself.

Do you??

Take some time to sit and think about the traits and characteristics that make you the person you are.

Do you love you?

What do you want to know about me??

2011-07-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have decided to ask my readers what they would like to know about me!!

I am intrigued as to what you think of me,

what you would like to know about me,

and what you want to know more of :)

I plan on answering your questions with a vlog posting Monday, July 11.

So you can either ask a question as a comment to this post

email me: resourcefulred@gmail.com

I cant wait to see what you all have to say!!!!!

WIWW: Wedding Edition

2011-07-05T17:57:00.000-07:00

We went to a wedding this past weekend. It was lovely <3

Here is What I Wore

dress: White House Black Market

shoes: Jessica Simpson

jewelry: handmade from my wedding

And yes, that is my garden box growing in the background!
Its flourishing!!!

As a matter of fact I picked my first red cherry tomatoes tonight!!!

Things I Love Tuesday

2011-07-05T10:53:00.000-07:00

Things I Love Tuesday!

lovely sundress!!

{source: River of Romansk}

gorgeous market tote!

{source: Alexandra Rose Boutique}
and one of my sponsors!!!

love this necklace!

{source: Elisa Gomez)

such a romantic headband

{source: just.lovely.things}

Head on over to these shops and show some love!!

Happy Tuesday!

Happy Independence Day

2011-07-04T08:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Independence Day!!!

Now Introducing....

2011-07-01T06:36:00.000-07:00

Allow me to introduce a new color to the shop

SEAFOAM!!

Isn't it lovely?!

And a special offer for today only

10%off all seafoam rosie necklaces

offer ends 7/1/11 at 11pmEST

(seafoam rosie necklace is listed at discounted price here)

http://redsrosies.bigcartel.com/

On My Heart: True Happiness

2011-06-30T16:45:00.000-07:00

True happiness is in the innocence of a child.

Children have genuine reactions to everything in their lives.

I really never realized this until I became a mama.

And I want to possess some of that innocence again; that genuine reaction, if you will.

My child reminds me that happiness comes from little things. Little innocent things that we as adults may take for granted.

Happiness is in playing in water on a hot summer day.

True happiness is not in material items. there I said it.

True happiness (to my child) is

cuddling on the couch with his mama & daddy

chasing his puppy around the back yard

digging in the rocks

watching his fish swim around the tank

crawling into bed at 2am with mama & daddy for a snuggle.

I need to start thinking of what is happiness for my child and incorporate it into my life.

I need to let little things make me happy <3

I need a bit more innocence.

New Sponsor Hello!!

2011-06-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

Head over to our newest sponsor

:dianapantz:

and check out her July Goals!!!

leave a comment and tell her Red sent you!!!

passing on the love: blog award

2011-06-30T05:49:00.000-07:00

earlier this week the lovely Sarah at Racing Towards Joy included me in the kreativ blogger award! we have recently found eachother's blogs through Casey's linkup on Fridays [great linkup to explore others blogs with similar views as you]!

you must check out Racing Towards Joy!

Sarah is a super sweet mama to Abigail and wife to Parker that has a deep love for the Lord and isn't afraid to let it shine!!

thank you again Sarah!

Here's how the award works:

1. link back to the giver of the award

2. spread the love by awarding 10 other blogs

3, contact those bloggers to tell them you're giving it

4. share 10 random things about yourself

ok, for the 10 blogs....wow!

Jenny at the Adventures of H3

Jenny is a mama to two sweet boys with a pretty little girlie on the way!

She has a big heart, is very real, and is quite frankly the cutest pregnant woman I have ever seen!!

Alex at Alexandra Rose

This talented woman is creative sewing goddess!!

I adore her love for vintage items!!

Eclipsed at Completely Eclipsed

She has such an honest personality, is easy to relate to, and blogs about the many challenges to balance life as a working mama!

Lil' Misa at Our Grand Adventure Begins

This former gymnist is a working mama who has a passion for exercise

{i can [ok could] relate!}

Jami at Call Me Blessed

This deep faithed mama of four little ones is such an inspiration to me. She is crazy talented and shares her thoughts, beliefs, and talents daily!

Diana at dianapantz

Diana is a woman that I would describe as 'so cool'.

She has that style and thing {i cant put my finger on it} that I adore!

This Lovely Lady at Naptime Diaries

This fellow coffee lover is a mama to 3 kiddos and shares some fabulous biblical insight!

Danielle at Changing Lanes

I cant get enough of her vintage style and lovely photos!

Jennifer at Staying in the Loop

This lady shares her honest insight daily.

I love that she is herself and sometimes strays from the popular opinion!!

Chelsea {joy} at name your {joy}

I love this woman's big heart, creative spirit, and ability to find {joy} in every day!

10 Random Things About Me:

1. I just got new glasses, I think they are a really cool accessory.

2. My family makes fun of me for being a 'hippie'

3. I would choose a movie and glass of wine over a night out any day.

4. We grill chicken or burgers in our house atleast once a week.

5. I have doilies all over my living room.

6. I couldn't live without my cell phone.

7. My favorite thing about going to a wedding is the wedding cake.

8. I could stand and watch the penguins at the zoo all day long. They are my fav!

9. When it rains or snows, my knees make me walk like I am 80yrs old.

10. I have never been to a winery and I would love to go.

what I wore wednesday

2011-06-29T06:26:00.000-07:00

linking up again with the pleated poppy this week for what i wore wednesday!!

this may have been the only day in the last week that i was not in gym clothes!

tank: Express

romper: Express

necklace: Red's Rosies

ooo and my hair (here is a better pic)

i used this tutorial from the Daybook!!

super easy!!!

THANK YOU SYDNEY!!

{Giveaway} winner!!

2011-06-28T08:08:00.001-07:00

The winner for the choice of rosie necklace from last weeks WIWW post is.....

#9 Diana!!

Diana I will be emailing your for info!!!!

If you haven't won, but are still interested in some rosies:

http://redsrosies.bigcartel.com/

things i love tuesday

2011-06-27T17:44:00.000-07:00

some handmade classy items on the blog today for
things i love tuesday!
a little glamour if you will <3

hello gorgeous!

{source: Fairytale13}

loving the chunky look of this one

{source: maneggi}

this hair lovely is so my style!

{source: TutusChic}

would love to carry this shoulder bag!

{source: plainjanepurses}

hope you all have a lovely tuesday!!

Liquid Love from Mother Nature

2011-06-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

so many of us are looking for ways to be a little greener and save a little more money.

i have a little something to share.

my hubbs bought me a present recently.

a present that i have been wanting for awhile.

no ladies, not diamond or pearls.

i'm talking about something that i can use on a daily basis.

something that collects a little bit of that liquid love from our dear friend mother nature.

a rain barrel!!

how often are we wasting water??

how often are we not taking advantage of that good rain God is showering on us??

especially in the spring, summer, and fall months; when we are growing veggies and enjoying the beauty of those lovely flowers we planted so perfectly.

and this particular barrel has been recycled and now put to another use.

it was originally used as a barrel for olives at the local Italian food market.

recycled = another reason to love it!

and you can hide it. no one has to know its there.

ours is hidden behind the planter at the end of our drive way. not even visible unless you go around the back of the planter to see it.

and the best part is, buying a rain barrel is so inexpensive. literally this one was $30.

$30 that i don't have to pay the water company.

$30 that i can spend treating my family to a little something special instead of using it on a bill.

getting a little greener really can't get any easier.

{for more eco-friendly and pocket friendly tips, visit resourcefulred.blogspot.com}

On My Heart: Date nights with Kids

2011-06-24T04:39:00.000-07:00

Baby Boy and I had a date last evening since Hubbs was working. It was perfect!

No it wasn't candle lit.

No there was no violinest.

But.....

there was great conversation {I asked questions, he replied in his own way}

there were kisses and lovins exchanged [I love his kisses and when he flashes me that sweet little smile]

there was a great dinner (sure it was veggie soup that I had frozen in the freezer from a few weeks ago)

and there was a movie with cuddles after the meal {Nemo, our fav}

After last evening, I have decided that its important for Hubbs and I to have some one-on-one nights with our son.

Yes, I get to spend all day, every day with him; but it was different last night.

It was different because I planned [and I use planned lightly] a simple, fun evening for the two of us.

Just the two of us :::sings Will Smith's song in my head::

We share alot of family time. It's great! I wouldn't change it for the world.

But I miss those times when Baby Boy was an infant.

Times where he would gaze into my eyes as I was giving him a bottle.

Times when he would snuggle in my arms and I would rock him to sleep.

Intimate times.

But now that Baby Boy is older, spending some intimate one-on-one moments seem few and far between.

So, I am suggesting date nights.

Date nights with my child.

and a Very Happy Birthday to Casey!!!!!!!

Happy Thursday!

2011-06-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday!!

Go out and enjoy some water fun on this gorgeous summer day!!

and have you entered my

giveaway??

wiww & giveaway

2011-06-21T19:20:00.000-07:00

what i wore wednesday

shirt: J.Crew

shorts: J.Crew

necklace: Red's Rosies

{giveaway}

since my what i wore wednesday post includes a necklace from my shop,

i have decided to {giveaway} a rosie necklace of choice to

one lucky reader!!

giveaway is open until thursday, june 23 at 12pm (noon)EST

please leave a separate comment for each entry

mandatory entry: must be a follower of my blog

additional entries:

-follow Red's Rosies on Facebook

-follow Resourceful Red on Facebook

-follow @resourcefulred on Twitter

-blog/tweet/post about this giveaway and link it back

(GIVEAWAY) on the Facebook page!!

2011-06-21T10:14:00.000-07:00

ENTER to win a pair of Red's Rosies Earrings on the

Resourceful Red Facebook Page!!!!

giveaway ends at 9pm EST

Feeling undone

2011-06-21T09:11:00.000-07:00

(J.Marie Photography)

Perhaps I should have posted this on Friday when I link up with Casey, but I need to get it out.

Needed to type my feelings.

I have this sense of feeling unattached,

disc o n n ected,

undone, if you will.

The last few days I feel like I am accomplishing things, but so little is getting accomplished.

I don't know what it is or how to change it.

Its like something isn't being fulfilled. And I just wake up completing uncompleted tasks again the next day. It's weird.

Am I making any sense to anyone?

Last evening, a friend came over and gave me a full body massage (he is in massage therapy school).

After that I felt relaxed, but the feeling of anxiousness {incompleteness} returned in the middle of the night.

Is like He is telling me to accomplish a task, but I cannot hear it.

It's hurting.

I need to feel it.

I need to hear it.

Do these feelings, thoughts, anxieties ring a bell?

Touch anyone?

Or am I just babbling?

O so busy lately

2011-06-20T12:11:00.000-07:00

I have been suuuper busy since Fridays post!! And I was sans camera all weekend so, no pretty pics for this post. [I am sure you are all disappointed].

Saturday was my mom's 50th birthday! I know, the big 5-0, right?! We celebrated by going to a wedding. Two good friends from high school tied the knot in June 18th in a lovely turquoise and pink themed wedding.
We had a great time dancing and catching up with those I hadn't seen in a while.

Sunday was Fathers' Day. {I know, quite a busy weekend to prepare for, right??!}
We hung out at my parents and spent time with the daddies (my dad and Hubbs), relaxing, and eating. It was so nice to just hang out and enjoy some time together. Grilled steak along with sea scallop pasta were the perfect way to wrap up the weekend, as well as the 8:30pm bedtime for me last night.

I was oh so tired.

And today, we spent the day walking around the zoo and enjoying the animals with my cousin Jen and company. Baby Boy sure does love him some animals. And spending time with his cousin too!

And I have a feeling this week isn't going to slow down any, or the next week for that matter.

When is vacation again??

On My Heart: My Rosies

2011-06-17T05:38:00.000-07:00

This past week I decided to take a little leap of faith.

After realizing I need a few little distractions from ordinary life {distractions that I enjoy}, I chose to open Red's Rosies.

Since I enjoy making these sweet little lovelies so much, I wanted to share them with the world. Yes, I know I am not the first person to create these or the first person to sell them; but there is a little piece of me in each one.

In each rosie, there is a little slice of me. A little portion of my life.

This week, when I needed some me time at the end of the night: I crafted.

With each twist of the fabric, my heart let a little looser and my soul felt a little clearer. My mind got lost in the fabric.

So many thoughts [negative and positive] were let go of with every twirl of cloth between my fingers.

A little slice of me in each.

But last night I was zoning: what if no one wants to wear my Rosies? What if they just sit in their little respective areas for days upon days? What if I pour some of me into each and they go unappreciated??

This morning I woke up thinking:

if my Rosies do not make any other person in this world smile, its ok. They are making me smile. They are making me relax and enjoy some quality time with my soul. They are making me happy.

My Rosies make me Happy!

oooo and enjoy some free shipping on each order until June 20th!!

http://redsrosies.bigcartel.com/

WIWW: My First Time

2011-06-15T05:37:00.000-07:00

This week I decided to do the What I Wore Wednesday post!!!

Headin to Church

Shirt: The Gap

Tank: Kohls

Pants: The Gap (unseen)

Earrings: Stella & Dot

Off to the Eye Doctor (at my Grams)

Shirt: J.Crew

Shorts: J.Crew

Shoes: TOMS

Headband: just.lovely.things.

And to work

Shirt: The Gap

Capris: The Loft

Necklace: gift

Shoes: Nine West (unseen)

So that's my style! I could live at J.Crew and The Gap ;)

What do ya think?

Red's Rosies: The Shop

2011-06-14T09:04:00.000-07:00

I have opened a small shop of fabric rose lovelies!!!

I am so excited!!!

Please check it out!

http://redsrosies.bigcartel.com/

love is all that matters

2011-06-13T08:38:00.000-07:00

when it comes to love; i love being in love.

i adore a good modern romance novel.

i love a sappy movie.

i love love. {if that even makes sense}

my whole life i dreamed of what 'my life' would be like. who the man of my dreams would be.
how would he sweep me off my feet? how perfect would our wedding day be?
what would our life be like together?

is my like exactly what i pictured??

no, its so much better.

there are so many points in life where i wish i could freeze time. freeze time and just drink in every bit of the moment; the experience.

or maybe let the moment pass and then go back to them.
the times where nothing else in the world seemed to matter:
the first kiss
the look on my husband's face as i walked down the aisle toward him
our carriage ride through central park on our honeymoon
the minutebaby boy came into our lives

the moments where feelings encompass your whole being.
where love is really all that matters.

My Son the Monster

2011-06-12T11:09:00.000-07:00

This morning church was a nightmare for us.
Baby Boy started getting his 2 year molars about a week or 2 ago. Well, this morning was just LOVELY.

He had been chewing on his paci most of the morning and whining, so we gave him some Tylenol to help ease the pain. Let me tell ya, it didn't do a darn thing.

Hubbs was staying at home this morning in order to get the last wall in our little man's room painted (I'll share later on this week), so it was just the little monster and I.

The first part of church he was fine. Flirting with the lady that usually sits next to us. Reading a book. And singing along with the hymns {his version of course}.
As soon as the gospel was over: SCREAMING BLOODY MURDER!!!

I usually let him talk during the service and play quietly. Screaming = cry room. And I am not a real big fan of the cry room, but he was DEFINITELY going to disrupt others worshiping if I didn't remove us from the pews.

We head to the cry room where the screaming continued. In addition to Baby Boy acting up, there was a family behind me whose little girl was repeatedly saying "I pooped". Yes, she did, I could smell it. Parents just sat there.

So after 10 more minutes of the screaming and sitting in the poop-reeking room, it was time for communion.

I can honestly say I have NEVER EVER left mass right after communion; but this morning I was desperate. As Baby Boy clung to my hip, paci in mouth and lovey in hand, I received the blessed sacrament and we buzzed out of there.

Wouldn't it figure, when we got home, he was 10 times more pleasant. Ugh!!

Please molars, come through sooooooooooooon!!

On my Heart: The Growth of the Baby Boy

2011-06-10T06:49:00.000-07:00

At 19 months (Happy 19month Birthday Baby Boy!), my little man has gone from being a helpless little peanut to a silly little boy.

It is truly amazing to me how much such a small life grows and learns in the early years of life.

They are so delicate
so dependent

so afraid to break them.

And then so quickly, right in front of your face
they
gain weight, grow taller,
sprout 18 teeth {yes, 18}, eat peanut butter sandwiches,
create words,

give kisses, ask for snuggles,
and share a love with you that is beyond words to describe.

I love my Baby Boy and I love watching him learn, grow, and become a dirt playing, rock throwing, stick carrying, and (just this morning) giggling at his gas Little Boy!

i'm a slaaaave to the junk

2011-06-09T05:37:00.000-07:00

i have got to get back to eating better.
lately i have been the absolute worst eater around! :(

i'm not sure if i am trying to find comfort through food or what my deal really is,
but it's not good.

there is just something about putting something you know is bad into your mouth that tastes extra good.
{come on, you know what i'm saying} you've been there. {right??}

i mean, i know potato chips and helluva good white cheddar and bacon dip isn't by any means at all a good things to put into my body; but o.m.g. the saltiness of each chip and the sharp bite of that little dollop of dip just sent a jolt through my body.
i knew it wasn't the best thing to eat for dinner last night. {but i did it anyway.........}

each bite sent a message to my brain:
'go ahead, have another one friend'
'it will make you feel good'

it's like i've been ~~a victim~~ a slave to junk food!

it's sad.

i know that our bodies are like little machines. we need to fuel ourselves with good, fresh, healthy foods to get the maximum from our well oiled machine.
but i've failed lately.
maybe that's why i've been extra tired. a bit grouchy. a little short fused.

the junk has to go!!
but it's so good.............

Things I am Loving SONGS

2011-06-07T12:35:00.000-07:00

Things I am Loving: Songs

There are so many songs touching my heart out there right now.
They aren't on the top of the charts right now.
They aren't all new, but they mean so much to me. They affect me in so many different ways. Touch my heart, soul, create feelings that are amazing.

{I have no rights to any of these songs or videos. I am simply borrowing them from youtube.com}

This song reminds me that its ok to be who I am.

Lifehouse: Everybody is Someone

For some reason the lyrics

'from the moment I wake to the moment I sleep, I'll be there by your side, just you try and stop me'

makes me think of my son. I will always love him, care for him, support him, etc. no matter what.

Coldplay: Shiver

This song gives me such a great feeling throughout my soul. I am so blessed to have married the man that I did. He is amazing and I think God for him everyday.

Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat: Lucky

This song has been getting me through the times that I have been down lately. God blesses us with so many things, be good or bad; he blesses us.

Laura Story: Blessings

What are some of your favorite songs??

New Look

2011-06-06T14:39:00.000-07:00

Well what do you all think???

Ooo and since we have a new look I think we should have a giveaway to celebrate this week!!!

on my heart: i'm particular

2011-06-03T06:54:00.000-07:00

i am particular.

some might say picky.

if i am going to do something

wear something

be associated with something

represent something

{you get the idea}

i am going to ~~like~~ love it!

if i don't care for it

don't stand for it

don't believe in it

i'm just not going to do it.

guess i would make a lousy infomercial salesman! haha!

this is on my heart because my blog is getting a new look!

a friend is redesigning it and i feel like i am being the biggest pain in the butt out there

but i just want to ~~like~~ love it!

i want to be inspired

i am afraid if i don't like it, i won't want to write.

i want something that truly represents

me.

i may not be a style icon: but i have good taste

i may not be a chef: but i can cook just fine

i may not be an inspiration to all: but maybe an inspiration to some

{atleast i like to think i am inspiring someone}

i just want to be me.

particular. picky. selective. choosy.

whatever you want to call it.

i just want it to be me.

whats on your heart this week??

hello june!

2011-06-02T05:31:00.000-07:00

hello june!

so nice to see you and your sunshine!

(yes, those are my clothes hanging out in the background)

this is how we plan on spending our summer days :)

little bit of pool

little bit of water table

little bit of gardening

little bit of laundry

o and yes, that is last years swim suit.

how it fits i have no idea

but someone has certainly grown since then!!

last june vs this june

hello june!

what are you up to today??

how have your kiddos or you changed in the last year??

Judgement by Fridge

2011-06-01T05:54:00.000-07:00

a little while ago {ok like a month, but i have been busy!}i was tagged by Lil'Misa at Our Grand Adventure to do this little fridge bit.

well lets start out by saying i really do NOT like my fridge. i am not a fan of the side by side freezer/fridge combo. we have a really hard time finding room for everything. we are hoping to put a second freezer or freezer/fridge combo downstairs some time soon.

so here she is....

the outside

we've got some art work from a friend to Baby Boy

our weekly menu

my to-do list

my FAV thing: our portable pocket that we put our bills and important papers in

the inside of the fridge

{from the top down}

milk (2% for hubbs, whole for the babe; i dont drink milk)

sam adams summer ale

some leftovers

eggs

yogurt

watermelon!!!!

cheese bin

more leftovers

veggies and fruits bins

on the door is just some butter

condiments and drinks

the freezer

its loaded with meat, veggies, and soups. o and some desserts from hubb's grandmother ;)

o and the ice maker is jammed or something; hubbs needs to fix that!

nothing real special.

we like to keep it simple around here!

ok so i am supposed to tag a few others to do this post....hmmm

Casey at The Wiegands

Jenny at H3

Sally at Exploits of a Millitary Mama

lemme see whats in your fridge mamas!!!!

What do you do when its HOT out?

2011-05-31T11:11:00.000-07:00

what do you do when its hot out??

and by hot i mean like in the 90s hot!

this is what i am trying to figure out.

my almost 19month old

{cue tears, he's not a baby anymore}

wants to play outside allll day long; but its just tooooo hot!

so what do we do?

yesterday we busted out the baby pool and let him {and me, and some feet of family members} enjoy that. but i just don't feel like filling it up today.

psa: use the water from your baby pool to water your plants at the end of the day

so im going to have to find some way to entertain him when he wakes from his nap without both of us sweating our brains out!!

what do you do on these hot ~~summer~~, i mean spring, days??

i am participating!!!

2011-05-31T05:59:00.000-07:00

i am so excited to be participating in the craftaholics anonymous' handmade gift exchange!!

wahoo!!!!

have you signed up??

Parenting in On My Heart

2011-05-27T06:10:00.000-07:00

Its Friday, time for what's On My Heart {Casey's linkup}.

Parenting is on my heart.

I knew that when I got pregnant with Baby Boy I was going to get unsolicited advice from everyone on how to raise my child. Criticizms on what I was doing wrong {wrong in their eyes anyway}.

But I didn't know how MUCH advice how many critcisms I was going to get.

Sometimes I almost feel attacked. And I just want left alone.

There is nothing wrong with my son or the way we are choosing to raise them.

We do what is best for us.

We are pretty child-led compared to most people.

We let him tell us what he is ready for.

He is 18months old.

~He has a paci.~

He'll probably have a paci until he is ready to give it up. It doesn't bother me, so why let it bother you.

~He wears cloth diapers {most of the time}.~

I am sorry if you think they are crazy, but we like them and it works.

~He goes to bed between 7:30-8pm each night.~

It's when he is ready. Let him be.

~I enjoy some good cuddles at night time~

if Baby Boy wants, so it is no big deal for me to sleep with him or him to sleep with us.

~I ~~like~~ love my peditrician.~

She is AMAZING. We trust he, please do not judge her diagnosis or treatments.

Parenting is on my heart.

Let me parent the way I want to.

My child is happy.

I am happy.

Our little family is happy.

What unwanted parenting advice do you recieve?

pearls make me feel pretty

2011-05-26T06:05:00.000-07:00

there is something about a pair of pearl earrings.

when i put them in, i instantly feel pretty.

they give me a sort of extra confidence.

they make me feel like......

carrying myself a little taller

smiling a little more

putting on a little lip color.

they make me feel like life is a little sweeter.

they make me feel lovely.

what makes you feel pretty???

Random Notes about Me

2011-05-25T18:48:00.000-07:00

random facts about me to round out this lovely wednesday evening......

- i don't like tuna noodle casserole; i despise it. gram came over and made if for dinner yesterday, i ate cheese

~ i wear a size 9.5-10 shoe

- i'm addicted to The Food Network; i want to be a judge on cupcake wars

~ i met the cake boss last month

- my nails are painted teal right now

~ i like sleeping with my son better than my husband; he cuddles

- stress makes me clinch my jaw

~ claussen pickles are my favorite

- i like to give my dog kisses on the top of his snout, in between his eyes and nose

~ i believe that a good hug can cure mostthings

- i am deathly afraid of birds & heights

tell me something we have in common......
tell me something random about you......

share my blog with your friends........

Gardening for the Soul

2011-05-23T08:54:00.000-07:00

Nothing like a little plants, dirt, and water to make your self feel good!

On Saturday, this is exactly what my heart {and lawn} needed. A little TLC.

We headed out to the local outdoor garden store

{not a greenhouse, not a store, just an outdoor plant place}

to get our goods.

Flowers, plants for my veggie garden, soil, & some mulch.

Hubbs built me a raised garden box for my small veggie garden. Squeeeee!!

I have been waiting for 3 long years to plant my vegetable garden in my own house and it finally happened!

So we shall see how this goes.

Here's whats in there:

2 Better Bush Tomato plants

1 Cherry Tomato plant

3 Yellow Pepper plants

4 Green Bell Pepper plants

3 Hot Banana Pepper plants

There is nothing like the taste of home grown vegetables in salads, meals, or just raw....

oh so yummy!!

Hubbs also created a little flower bed for me on our hillside next to the patio. We weren't exactly sure what we wanted there, so we shall see what happens here.

In this area I have:

6 geraniums alternating a hot pink & a lighter pink

2 small grasses that will grow 2 ft wide and have pink tips

2 bunches of Monkey grass

I also have 2 pots with hot pink Gerber Daisies in them. {my fav}

and you can see the 2 plastic (made with all recycled materials, GO HUBBS) Adirondack style chairs for us to relax in. Super comfy!! Now we just need some more porch furniture to enjoy this space.

Oh ya, and the retaining wall {which was here before we moved in} is leaning, so we def need to fix that!

And finally my front buckets that have Gerber Daisies, some pansies, and marigolds in them.

So pretty!!!

I could have played outside in those pots and beds all day. Its so relaxing and [almost] therapeutic for me.

It made me feel good; like a normal human being again.

It felt so amazing to be doing something other than going in and out of the doctors office & hospital {as I did all week} for a change.

It was exactly what I needed; what we needed.

And we made the world a little bit prettier while we were at it ;)

Are you gardening this summer??

What are you planting??

Flowers are On My Heart

2011-05-20T09:50:00.000-07:00

It is truly amazing how flowers can make me feel.

Their varied colors

Their elegance

Their delicate beauty

Their sweet scent

everything about them warms my heart <3.

puts a smile on my face.

Flowers are there to add color and wonder to celebrations

to good times

Flowers are there with their painted petals to put a smile on your face in the dark times.

These flowers are offering affection to my heart.

From my family,

to help heal some pain,

to show they are thining of us.

Flowers are amazing.

I am looking forward to tending to my flower beds this weekend and adding some color to my yard. Adding some more color to my life.

Whats on your heart??

Through Sadness there Will be Light

2011-05-19T12:55:00.000-07:00

I need to share this with you all.

We have had a fairly tough week in our home.

As I was getting ready to announce to you all that we were expecting baby #2, we found out that wasn't going to happen.

I went for my monthly appointment on Monday and the baby had no heartbeat.

Surgery the next day.

I have been trying to recover physically and emotionally along Hubbs. While we are sad, we know that God is caring for our angel in heaven.

Family and Friends have been so thoughtful, caring, and loving.

My sister-in-law sent me lyrics to a sing last night. She must have known I was hurting because this song touched me and put a smile on my face.

Its amazing how songs; lyrics and melodies can touch us, affect us, and help us to remember what is important in life. How to believe.

I want to share with you the song and the lyrics, hoping it will touch someone else; maybe one of you.

Blessings by Laura Story

(I just found the video on youtube.com. I have no rights to this)

So much to share!

2011-05-18T08:28:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!! Sorry it has been a while, but we have been SUPER SUPER busy!!

Its so nice for things to be relaxed and back to normal again. Back to our normal days of playing outside, reading books, lounging in comfy clothes, and spending quality time together!

Anyway, Baby Boy had a great time visiting with his cousins! They had a blast chasing eachother around, visiting the zoo, and {cuddling}!!

LOVE THESE BABIES!

Anyway....they had a blast!!

On a side note. If you could keep my family in your prayers.

I am not ready to share, but I will one day.

O hello again

2011-05-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

Hello again friends. Sorry I have been MIA. So much has been going on here. Baby Boy got sick again right after Easter with an ear infection. Making for lots of cuddles and pretty sleepless nights. On top of that I haven't been feeling well either. Not a very good combination if you ask me.

But thank the Lord for my fabulous husband!
He has done an amazing AMAZing job taking care of me and Baby Boy. He's cooked meals, done laundry, straightened up the house, etc. I married Superman, clearly.

that's about all that has been new here. I am excited that I have a few more giveaways coming up over the next few weeks!! Squeeeeee!!

I shall return to regular blogging now that {hopefully} the germs stay away from us!

Happy Monday!!

Little Bit of Easter & Winners!

2011-04-27T06:51:00.000-07:00

I am back!! Hubbs had a few days off from work so we got to spend some really nice family time together the last few days!!
We had a wonderful Easter with my family!

We are incredibly blessed to be surrounded with such loving people!

Here are a few pics of Baby Boy!

Looking through his Easter Baskets

Hunting for eggs with Aunt Nat's help

Finding them!

Whats in here??

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter too!!

Now for the

winners

Thank you all for participating!!!

(winners are selected using random.org)

Saffron Kids cloth napkins........#2 Jenny!

MadebyMAXX personalized crayon set.......#12 Amanda!

GreenChild Creations Cloth Diaper........#18 Rebecca O!

The Ole Bag Lady gift bag............#24 Kaymee!

Zizzies and Izzies cloth wipes set......#13 Amber!

Qwerty O produce bags............#1 Short1882!

I will be emailing you all shortly!!!

CONGRATS!!!

Reusable Produce Bags: Qwerty O

2011-04-22T14:05:00.000-07:00

We all have our reusable grocery totes {atleast I hope we do} but there is something missing.

What do you put your produce in??

Are you still using the plastic produce bags??

I know I was, until I came across

Qwerty O

and their handmade produce bags!!

Just like our other shop (Made by MAXX (see post below)) this shop has a unique background!
All of the produce bags are made by the shop owner's daughter, Kristin. Kristin is saving money for college. So when you take the time to purchase some produce bags from Qwerty O, you are not only helping the enviornment by reducing waste, but also helping educate a young mind. Also, a portion of proceeds from sales on this site go to help fund loans to entrepreneurs on Kiva - helping them to help themselves.
What an awesome deal!!

Qwerty O carries a variety of produce bags and also other bags and other enviornmentally friendly products (pictured below).

All of the products in the store are shipped in recycled maaterial {aka crazy boxes}, which I LOVE!!! Such a good idea and a great way to reuse!

I had the opportunity to take these produce bags to the grocery store this evening and I am really loving them! They are very strong, the different sizes are great, and they fold up really easily to fit in my purse!
Oo and did I mention they are machine washable! Just throw them in the machine with your other grocery totes and wash on cold, viola! Clean bags!

Now for the exciting part:

One Lucky Reader is going to win a set of Produce Bags!!

Giveaway is open until Tuesday, April 26 at Midnight (EST)

Mandatory Entry: Follow my blog using GCF and tell me if you use reusable grocery totes in your home.
(please leave a separate comment for each entry and be sure to include your email)

Additional Entries:
-visit Qwerty O's shop and tell me your favorite product
-follow @resourcefulred on Twitter.
like Resourceful Red on Facebook
-tell me why you would like to win.
-blog or tweet about this giveaway and link it back to this post.

Reusable Wipes Giveaway: Zizzies and Izzies

2011-04-22T10:21:00.000-07:00

Cloth Diapering and Green Mamas:

COME IN!!

Let me introduce you to an eco-friendly kid's shop

Zizzies and Izzies

Zizzies and Izzies creates fleece diaper covers, designer prefolds, cloth diapering accessories, and cute clothes made from eco-friendly materials.

{Eco-friendly materials, music to every CDing mamas ears!}

Let me share some of the cuteness

The clothes are ADORABLE, the britches look super comfy, and the accessories as so sweet!

The shop offers a variety of sizes in each item, so you are sure to find a perfect size for your little one.

There are many different patterns and different styles to choose from to fit your taste!

I can't say enough about the cuteness of this store!!

So head over to the shop and check it out for yourself!

Zizzie and Izzies is going to give one lucky reader a 10 pack of cloth wipes!!

They are also offering

EACH OF YOU a Coupon Code!!

Get 15% off your entire order using the code "resourcefulred"

Code is good until April 26 at Midnight

Giveaway is open until April 26 at Midnight (EST)

Mandatory Entry: Follow my blog using GFC and tell me if you have every used cloth wipes before.

(please leave a separate comment for each additional entry and include your email address)

Additional Entries:

-like Zizzies Britches on Facebook.

-follow @resourcefulred on Twitter.

-visit Zizzies and Izzies shop and tell me your favorite item.

-blog or tweet about this giveaway and link it back to this post.

Once Again Etsy Shop: COUPON

2011-04-22T06:15:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce you to a shop I have recently come across on Etsy

Once Again

Once Again offers everyday items in gorgeous vintage prints! It makes me drool!

Let me just share some with you

Are you drooling yet??

The owner of Once Again takes fabrics that she comes across in thrift stores, garage sales, "and yes, even the garbage" and creates gorgeous items that people can use daily. Her sewing is fabulous {makes me jealous} and of very high quality. The products that she makes also encourage greener living: the cloth napkins, the cloths pin bags, the grocery totes, etc.

I have been given the opportunity to use a clothes pin bag from Once Again.

2 words: LOVE IT!

While I haven't had the opportunity to throw my clothes pins in it,

(they are still in storage from the move)

I can tell you it holds a great amount. Enough clothes pins for my line, plus my diaper hanger, and then some.

The bag is durable and strong.

And oh so pretty!

Makes me want the sun to come out even more!!!!

Now Once Again is offering

EACH OF YOU

a 15% off coupon

on any clothes pin bag in her store!

Code: ED2011

The coupon is only good April 22 and April 23.

So head over there right away and get one!!!

Snuggy Baby Coupon!

2011-04-21T12:21:00.000-07:00

If you are a babywearing, cloth diapering mama I bet you are familiar with Snuggy Baby and their fabulous products!!

And if you aren't, well let's introduce you:

This is a gorgeous Snuggy Baby Turquoise Dream Linen Banded Ring Sling

I love my sling more than anything!! So I can tell you, a sling is one of my biggest recommendations to any future babywearing mama!! And Snuggy Baby Slings are comfortable and gorgeous AND {this is big} MACHINE WASHABLE!

The best part (in my opinion), Snuggy Baby is a work at home mom company!!

This is a Lazy Days Baby Wrap

Great to keep your cuddly newborn close to you!

Snuggy Baby also offers super cute wet bags in various sizes!!

Ok, so you need to get on over to Snuggy Baby and take advantage of the

COUPON

they have kindly given each of you!!!

You can receive 10% off of your entire order with the

Coupon Code: resourcefulred

from now until May 15, 2011!!!!

(please note, coupon is only good at http://www.snuggybaby.com/sunshop/)

Additional links:

Snuggy Baby on Facebook

Snuggy Baby on Twitter

The Ole Bag Lady Giveaway

2011-04-21T07:26:00.000-07:00

Have you ever considered wrapping gifts in a more eco-friendly way??

Well the
The Ole Bag Lady
is giving you some super cute ways to do so!

See for your self!

There is a bag in every size, shape, and pattern to fit your gift giving needs!!

This busy, grandmother of four enjoys sewing as she has taken after her own grandmother in her love for crafting.

Why fabric gift bags? This is what the Ole Bag Lady had to say:

"Wrapping paper was always been some thing that bothered me greatly....work very hard to find just the right gift....spend good money to find the right wrapping paper and bows....take the time to set down and wrap it just right and trim with that perfect bow and 2 seconds after giving all but the gift, wrapping is in the trash can!

This bothered me so much that 20 some years ago I decided was not doing it any more! Started making my own fabric gift bags, and then made them for friends and family. Wrapping a gift no longer aggravates me, save money,save time...love hearing how the recipient is going to reuse the bag....best of all one less item in the landfills. Does my heart well to think that we might of saved a tree some where!"

If you think these bags look cute in the pics, let me tell you they are even cuter in person!

Each bag comes with its own matching gift tag. Perfect to write a small message to the recipient.

(sorry for the cell phone pics, but my computer won't read my SD card right now :( )

And no the babe doesn't come with the bag...he's all mine!!!

I am also finding that these bags make adorable book totes to transport library books in or to take for a small outing!!

One Reader is going to win a bag of his or her choice!!

Giveaway closes on April 26 at Midnight (EST)

Mandatory Entry: Follow me using GFC and visit The Ole Bag Lady's shop telling me what bag you would like to win.
(please leave a separate comment for each entry and include your email address)

Additional entries:
-tell me why you would like to win a bag from The Ole Bag Lady
-Follow @resourcefulred on Twitter.
-follow Resourceful Red on Facebook.
-blog or tweet about this giveaway and link it back to this post.
Don't forget to enter our other cool Earth Day giveaways!!

Cloth Diaper Giveaway! GreenChild Creations

2011-04-20T16:33:00.000-07:00

This shop-owning mama does it all! {as you can see under the shop name}

From soaps to diapers, liners, and other cute items, owner, Anne Hoelz, has a true passion for creating natural products.

Her shop currently includes diapers, liners, and adorable pin cushion buddies (which her mother makes).

Hoelz creates 3 types of fitted diapers:

-cotton flannel

-cotton twill

-bamboo

The diapers all are created with 3 absorbent layers and even a pocket to add extra inserts if you wish. Sounds good to me!

One Lucky reader is going to win this diaper (with 2 diaper pins to go with), pictured below:

Super cute!!

Giveaway will be open until April 26 at Midnight (EST)

Mandatory Entry: Follow my blog using GFC and tell me why you would like to try this diaper.

(please leave a separate comment for each entry and be sure to include your email)

Additional Entries:

-become a fan of GreenChild Creations on Facebook

-visit GreenChild Creations shop and tell me which product us your favorite.

-follow @resourcefulred on Twitter.

-blog or tweet about this giveaway and link it back to this post.

I asked Anne "why cloth diapers?"

"I enjoy lessening our impact on earth, especially by using cloth diapers. They are reusable, made from renewable resources, better for the environment (not to mention a safer and cheaper alternative to disposables) - and of course I love a cute fluffy butt!! :)"

Who doesn't love a fluffy butt!!

Made by MAXX

2011-04-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

Looking for some recycled, repurposed, and reusable items??

Maybe something handmade that your children might enjoy??

Let me share with you

Made By MAXX

Super cute, right?? And the best part.....

Here is a little something about the creator:

Hi. My name is Max, and I'm 7 years old. I'd rather be playing Legos, but my mom wants me to start learning a little bit about money and saving it for college. I don't really know what college is, but mom said I'm going when I get big.

I made crayons from old ones we had in a box. My mom helped me. My mom says if you buy some of my crayons, the money will go in a savings thing at the bank. She said I could not buy Legos with it. I don't like that very much.

(This was typed by mom.)

How sweet is that??

One lucky reader is going to win a personalized crayon set from MAXX himself!!

Giveaway closes at Midnight on April 26 (EST).

Mandatory Entry:

Follow my blog using GFC and let me know what name or word you would like your crayon set to spell if you won!

(please leave a separate comment for each entry and be sure to include your email address)

Additional Entries:

-visit Made by MAXX on Etsy and let me know what crayons you think are the cutest!

-follow @resourcefulred on Twitter.

-blog or tweet about this giveaway and link it back.

-tell me who would use the crayons if you won!

MAXX's Mom says this about Earth Day:

"We recycle crayons because it's my goal to teach my children that repurposing, reusing, and recycling is so important for our future. Every Earth Day, our family does at least one positive act and/or makes one permanent change that helps the environment. :)"

Lets Kick this thing off Right!!!

2011-04-20T06:22:00.000-07:00

It's FINALLY HERE!!!!!!

What better way to celebrate Earth Day than with making a few changes in our lives to be a bit greener! And I am going to help some of you get a jump start on that by presenting some ideas, sharing some thoughts, and ofcourse giving some items away!!!!!

Lets get this party started!!

Our first little change:

When you sit down to eat a meal or grab something on the go we (9 times out of 10) need something to wipe our mouthes, hands, etc. on. The majority of us go to the ever so popular paper napkin.

Whats so bad about that??

You are creating more un-necessary WASTE!!

Why not make a change? And a cute change at that.....

CLOTH NAPKINS

Cloth napkins are not only less wasteful, but are also more absorbant than paper napkins.

And hello, 10 times cuter :)

Simply use your cloth napkins and throw them in the wash with your kitchen towels.

Super simple change!

This particular change is sponsored and inspired by

Saffron Kids

Saffron Kids is a mother daughter team that enjoys sewing fabulous creations including cloth napkins, bibs & burp cloths, blankets, hand puppets, and many other cute handmade items! Dorthy {the mother} has always loved sewing and creating gifts, while Nikki {the daughter} has joined her mother at the pedal for the last 4 years.

I asked Saffron Kids "Why cloth napkins?"

"Our family has been working hard over the past several years to "green" things up. Aside from making the move from paper to cloth napkins, we're using all cloth grocery bags, recycling more than we're sending to the landfill and composting to help our garden. We use cloth napkins at dinner every night, our daughter takes napkins in her lunch box to school. We've discovered organic methods of pest & weed removal in our gardening. We're working every day to make our impact on the earth more positive."

1 very lucky reader is going to win a set of 4 napkins

from Saffron Kids!!!

This giveaway is open from April 20 until April 26 at Midnight (EST)

Mandatory Entry: Be a follower of my blog using GFC and tell me why you would like to win these cloth napkins!

(Please leave a separate comment for each additional entry)

- Visit Saffron Kids shop on Etsy and tell me your favorite item

-Become a fan of Saffron Kids on Facebook

-Become a fan of Resourceful Red on Facebook

-Follow @resourcefulred on Twitter

-Tweet or Blog about this giveaway with a link back to this post

What does Earth Day mean to Saffron Kids??

"Earth day is a great remembrance of all the things Mother Earth does for us and what we should be giving back to her."

(Dont forget to keep checking back for more giveaways!!)

Guess what STARTS WEDNESDAY!!!!!

2011-04-18T13:14:00.000-07:00

Want to know some of the businesses I am featuring??????

Green Child Creations
The Ole Bag Lady
Qwerty O
Made by MAXX
Snuggy Baby
OnceAgain
The Well and Spindle
Saffron Kids
BeFelt
Zizzies and Izzies

and maybe a few surprises!!!!!

Lenten Reflection: Palm Sunday edition

2011-04-18T06:55:00.000-07:00

Its the Palm Sunday edition {one day late, but no big deal}.

I was not home all day so this is my first opportunity to sit down and write.

Is there anything sweeter than my little man's tiny hands holding these!?

Palm Sunday, the kick off to Holy Week.

On Palm Sunday, we celebrate Jesus' arrival into Jerusalem to celebrate Passover the week before he was put to death. Upon his arrival, the town greeted him by laying palm branches on the path for his donkey to process over. The towns cheered Hosanna! and Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!

What an awesome arrival!
What an amazing greeting!
What happens a week later is even more incredible.
The same crowd that is celebrating and bowing before Jesus, puts him to death a week later.

In mass, we are given palm branches to take with us to our homes. These palms are a constant reminder of God's ultimate sacrifice.

We take our palms and place one in each bedroom and the living room in the house.

The Byzantines also distribute pussy willow branches. This is an Eastern European tradition.

Since we now attend a Roman Catholic church (yay for finding our home church!!), my mom grabbed us some pussy willow branches from her Palm Sunday mass.

As I was saying, these palms and pussy willows are placed throughout the home. Some choose to weave their palms into forms of art. Gorgeous!

{As I was sitting in mass yesterday, there were so many little old ladies doing this. I really want to learn how, so if anyone has any tips, please let me know!!}

Anyway, as I was listening to the gospel yesterday and gazing at my palms, I began to think of how Jesus gave his life for ME; for ME, specifically ME.
How many of us think this way?
As he was giving up his soul to his father he was doing this for ME.
So that I am able to have eternal life in heaven.
For me.
So many thousands of years ago he was thinking of ME.

As he rode in on that donkey, knowing his destiny the following week, he was thinking of ME. Incredible.

How can I say thank you for such an awesome gift? For thinking of ME,
for thinking of my FAMILY,
for thinking of YOU!

How do we say thank you??

This week, as Holy Week begins and we prepare for Easter, I am going to take some time to meditate and reflect on saying THANK YOU for this amazing gift that we have received. The amazing gift that we are about to celebrate.

Is it even possible to thank God in a manner semi-equivalent of this gift??

Its ok to be Content (on my heart)

2011-04-15T05:59:00.000-07:00

(J.Marie Photography)

Content.

This word seems to have such a negative connotation to most of us.

But in my eyes, it does not.

Content to me means being happy with what you have.

Being happy with where you are in life.

Being happy with what you are given.

There is something that has really been bothering me lately.

The majority of the people around me do not seem content with their lives. It seems like they are always trying to 'get ahead' {so to speak}.

It kinda hurts me.

While I do {and will continue} try to improve myself daily in many aspects of my life, I am very content with where I am in life today. I am happy being a wife and mama. I am content with where I am in my career. I am pleased to be this person.

Is this bad??

Improving and getting ahead are two seperate things. I can improve myself as a cook without having to get ahead by going to culinary school and boasting about it. {am I making sense?}

I am happy living the life that I am right now. I feel like this is who I am meant to be and what I am meant to be doing.

We don't have the biggest house, the most luxurous car, the highest paying job, the picture perfect life.

And thats ok with me because it isn't what I want in life. Those things aren't important to me.

BECAUSE

We have a home, we have cars, we have careers, and we have happiness.

The way we live our lives {to me} is picture perfect.

So to me, being content is a perfectly wonderful thing. Being content with the life that you are living is important.

Enjoying it is important.

thats what's on my heart this week.

Things I love Thursday {etsy edition}

2011-04-14T09:10:00.000-07:00

In honor of Easter next week I am doing a

Things I love Thursday

Eastery

things straight from Etsy!!

Yummy Cookies!! Check out Butter Blossoms Shop on Etsy!

Doggie Easter Treats!! Check out PosBagofBonesBakery on Etsy!

Adorable Flower Coasters!! Check out Honey Bee Affairs on Etsy!

oo if I had a sweet little girl, she would be in this!! Check out Sugar Chic Kids on Etsy!!

Lovely hand painted cross. Check out Pretty Lovely Painting on Etsy!!

I have an IMPORTANT announcement!!

2011-04-13T07:44:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to announce the

(J.Marie Photography)

Earth Day Giveaway Event

taking place right here April 20, 21, 22!!

I will be featuring various ecofriendly products to help your family be a little greener!!

And the best part, you have a chance to

WIN THE PRODUCTS!!!

Share with your friends and get ready for some amazing opportunities!!

I am also still taking vendors for this event, so if you are interested in featuring your product (ecofriendly, handmade, repurposed, or just your item in the color green) please contact me resourcefulred@gmail.com

The Light {a poem}

2011-04-13T06:38:00.000-07:00

Droplets peering through the window

As I lay awaiting the light.

It's 4am and my thoughts are wandering.

Wandering through the tunnels and valleys in my mind.

Calling for answers, for help, {praying}for guidance.

Asking for the light.

Shhh, my boy is sleeping...

2011-04-12T07:29:00.000-07:00

....in his very own big boy bed!!!!

This past Sunday we made the transition.

So far its been FABULOUS

**knock on wood**

Some of you might be asking, why?

Why so early?

Let me tell you it was not by my choice, or my Hubbs. Baby Boy def made this decision for himself. He had been sleeping terribly in his crib because he moves all.over.the.place. at night time.

The only time he was sleeping well {not keeping mama & daddy up} was when he was in our bed;

getting more space.

So we decided he was probably ready.

-the crib was moved into the spare room

-Gigi brought over a brand new twin size bed {thank you again}

-sheets went on

-rails went up

...and we got one happy little man!!

He has been doing WONDERFUL in it!

Happy Boy & Happy Parents!!

Guest Blogger: Casey Wiegand

2011-04-11T06:07:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce you to this wonderful woman that I 'met' through her blog, Casey Wiegand.

She is an amazing artist, wife to a talented husband, mama to two sweet babies, and has an awesomly strong faith in God!! I wish we lived closer because I would love.love.love to hang out with her!!

So take the time to read her story and run over to check out her blog & website :)

I am so excited to share my story today as an artist! It starts back when Chris, my husband, and I first got married. I loved to paint but never had pursued it professionally. I remember the day he told me that he bought a big tent and had signed me up for the Dallas City Arts Festival, it would be my first art show. I was thinking,

"panic...I am going to embarrass myself and everyone will be thinking why does she have a booth here?!"

I just really had no confidence in my own paintings.

I am a self taught artist, I didnt have an art degree to show for.....just how God allows me to see the world, images, colors and shapes.

Was that enough to build a career on?

Plus Chris is freelance, could we raise a family on TWO freelance, unpredictable salaries.

Surely not.

Chris always says, if God calls you to do something you do it and He will provide. Money wont decide if we follow our dreams or not.

Fast forward to the show. It was a juried show with various types of art......paintings, jewelery, photography, woodwork.

Well I won for the paintings and sold 11 pieces that weekend. I wish I could write out all the details of how things unfolded that weekend but I will tell you that God moved in my soul.

He allowed me a platform of confidence to pursue a career as an artist, follow my dreams.

Now I am a stay at home mama with paintings in various galleries and a website where you can view my work. It's not always easy struggling financially. It's scary having two freelancers in the home on individual insurance plans and zero savings.

But this I know.

I am living my dream. And you cant put a price on that.

Not to mention I get to "work" with my two little loves. Usually I am wearing Ainsleigh and Aiden is painting along side me. A true dream come true.

I would love for you to check out my

blog and website!

Lenten Reflection: A Meaningful Life

2011-04-08T10:07:00.000-07:00

This week's Lenten Reflection is about meaning; serving a purpose in this life we have been given.

I was inspired to write about this topic by one of my family's favorite Veggie Tales dvds; Its a Meaningful Life.

(source)

I often wonder myself if I am leading the life that God intended me to. The life that He thought I would. We are given freedom to choose, but ultimately God is in control {we've talked about this before}. So I trust that if I am looking to Him for answers he will guide me in the right direction. But still, I often wonder, is my life really serving a purpose.

In the Veggie Tales story, a father is reminded that just because he is not a famous football player, does not mean he is not living a meaningful life. The father feels like he doesn't really matter to anyone since he is not famous, that his life has an effect on no one; that he is a failure.

He is shown a few different scenes that depict what his life would be life had he not made the decisions that he had in the past. Had circumstances been different, so would his life and his future.

He learns that he would not have a wife or family had his life taken a different route earlier on. This helps him to realize that he IS important to more people than he might think he is. He is affective; his life is meaningful to so many more than he realized.

Just like the father in this film, I often wonder the same thing. I wonder if I am living my life in a meaningful manner. Am I really having a positive impact on others? I am reaching anyone out there?

What I have come to realize that even if I impact one person in a positive way, if I help one person to live life in a way that makes God proud; then my life is meaningful.

When I doubt I am doing this, I reach out to someone I know I can mold and shape and teach:

my son.

We as parents are given the ~~responsiblity~~ opportunity to teach our children how to live meaningful lives. If I manage to teach him to love all people, to be caring, to be a positive impact on society, well then I have reached someone. I have done my job as a parent. My life has had meaning in someone else's life.

Its so important to realize who we are as people, what we can do, and how can we impact another person's life in a positive manner.

Even if it is just one person, we need to reach out to them.

To help them feel like their life is meaningful and to remind ourselves that our own life is meaningful too.

This is what I am challenging myself to for the next week. I hope to make some sort of positive impact on at least one new person's life a day. Even if it is just doing something small to help them out, making a phone call to ask how their day is, etc.

I am going to do it!

Will you join my challenge??

10 Random Things that Make Me Smile

2011-04-07T11:18:00.000-07:00

{photo compliments of J.Marie Photography, see my pages above}
10 Totally Radom Things that make Me Smile

-french onion soup with croutons and ooey gooey cheese melted on top, served in a small croc

-Play Dough

-the pictures on my camera phone

-remembering why I walked into a room

-my Grandma's metal measuring cups

-Ranch Dressing

-random acts of kindness

-saying a prayer for no every reason

-being able to say "I made it myself"

-getting mail that is not bills

-Sharpie markers

What makes you smile??

Schedule for Baby? What's that?

2011-04-06T10:49:00.000-07:00

Am I the only one that doesn't really plan time out for specific activities for my toddler?

I am seeing that a great number of Mamas out there have days and activities planned out during specific times for their little ones.

Me, eh, not so much.

I kinda just let him tell me what he wants to do and when he wants to do it.

Trust me, he doesn't have the rule of the house or anything. Atleast I am pretty sure he doesn't. But he lets me know what he wants to play with,

when he wants to read a book,

when he wants to relax and cuddle up to a Veggie Tale,

and when he wants to nap.

When I am doing chores {making dinner, washing dishes, doing laundry, etc} he helps me.

When I am in the shower {yes, I make time for myself to shower each day while he is up ::gasp::} he plays on the floor in the bathroom with his tub toys and plays peek with me around the shower curtain.

(Which is super cute by the way!)

When I am making the bed, he is inspecting each fold and helping me pull the sheets up to the top.

We don't go to Gymboree or any place like that for special toddler time. Its expensive and I'm not really sure it is worth it for us.

We go to places like the grocery store. I get to shop for the family and he gets to people watch, point out all the pretty colors, and carry on endless conversations with me. We go walk around other stores, for the pure joy of browsing.

We take walks when it is nice outside. We play in the backyard with the dog and our toys.

But in no way do I sit down and PLAN a day out for us. It just doesn't seem logical to me.

Some days he wants to read books ALLLLLL day.

Some days he wants to chase the dog and explore ALLLLL day.

He tells me when he is hungry (some days hungrier than others).

He tells me when he's tired (some days more tired than others)'

He tells me when he has had enough of one thing and we move onto another of his choice.

Seems simple to me.

And when he was a wee baby, we kinda did the same thing. Sure we did tummy time, read books, sang songs....but I didn't plan the day out {other than meals when he was little little}. We just went with the flow.

I just let it up to him and probably will continue to let it up to him. Because it works for us.

And as long as you aren't doing any harm to your self or your kid; do what works for you!!! Don't feel the pressure to plan things, to go by the book, to follow advice to a t. Do what works for you. Find your own little way, and go for it!!!

Should You celebrate Easter if You AREN'T a Christian??

2011-04-05T09:39:00.000-07:00

Should you celebrate Easter if you AREN'T a Christian????

Someone brought this up to me recently and it really got me thinking.

My first thought is, 'why would you want to?'

Since the whole reason behind Easter is celebrating God's Son Jesus Christ sacraficing his life for us so that we are able to have eternal life, why would a non-christian even think about celebrating this?

Maybe its the commercialism of Easter and Christmas?

We {as a society} have managed to turn both of these blessed seasons into presents, chocolates, and hopping bunnies. While I am definately not saying that I don't buy Christmas gifts, put together Easter baskets, and enjoy the occasional jelly bean; because I do, but ~~I also~~ we also {as a family}take the time to remember exactly what the holiday is meant for.

Yes, Baby Boy will get an Easter basket filled with a few treats: bubbles, books, goldfish, and fruit snacks.

Yes, we will probably eat some chocolate eggs and jelly beans, but these are not the most important things that we focus on for this holiday.

BUT.......

We observe the Lenten season {as you know from my Lenten Reflection Fridays}.

We will fast on Good Friday.

We will attend (just like always) Good Friday services.

We will celebrate Saturday evening at the Easter Mass.

We will gather together as a family for a big dinner and thank God for everything He has blessed us with. We will remember and celebrate the true meaning of Easter: God's Ultimate Sacrafice.

So for those of you that aren't Christian, I guess I am asking what you do to celebrate "Easter." {And yes, I have to put it in quotations because I am not sure if it is Easter}.

Maybe this is a controversial subject and maybe I will lose some readers over this, but I must know. And I am not trying to be viscous, I just want an answer, I want to know what it means to you.

So Please, leave comments, email me; answer my question.

resourcefulred@gmail.com

Vintage Sewing Machine: ITS DONE!

2011-04-04T06:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday!!

I shared a few weeks ago that we were redo/repurposing a vintage 1940s sewing machine and table.

Its done!!

If you remember, this is what it looked like before

And now.........

Hubbs decided to take on this little project for himself. He removed the sewing machine, cables, and front handle; then proceeded to sand the table down.

I should have taken pics of these steps, but he was working on it most of the time while I wasn't home. :( So I am sorry.

Hubbs then put a coat of flat, white paint on the table. After checking it out we decided it needed something more.

He put a second coat on, but this time semi-gloss white. Then he took the sand paper to it a bit to distress it!{love that look}

And TADA!!!

We weren't sure where we were going to put the table at first, but I love.love.love. it in the corner between the two {temporary} couches.

The white looks amazing with the white baseboards! And it looks super cute with our Stiffel lamp that my Grandma had reshaded for us a few years ago!

Well what do you think??

Laundry & Britt Nicole

2011-04-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

Putting some laundry away this morning and listening to some Britt Nicole.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oaO73cx4pn4

{thanks Youtube for letting me steal a public video to share}

New song I am obsessed with: Have it Your Way.

Thought I would share with you all!!

Happy Saturday!!

Lenten Reflections: Fasting and Abstaining

2011-04-01T08:29:00.000-07:00

Wow, week 4 of Lent already! This week I have decided to talk about fasting and abstaining during Lent.

In the Catholic Church we are asked to abstain from meat on all Fridays during the Lenten season. This small sacrifice is nothing compared to what Jesus sacrificed for us; his life.

I don't think that abstaining from meat on Fridays is all that hard, personally. And not to mention this is how I was brought up, we don't eat meat on Fridays during Lent; no biggie.

I went to Catholic high school as well as Catholic college, so abstaining from meat was never an issue for me. There was always some sort of fish offered on Fridays for meals at both places.

And in the society we live in today, with all of the vegetarian dishes offered at restaurants it is definitely not hard to make this small sacrifice. And again, I cannot stress enough: small sacrifice.

So many of us also choose a certain food, activity, etc to abstain from during Lent in addition to meat on Fridays. It is very common to hear people saying, "I gave up ____ for Lent." Again another small sacrifice that we can make in honor of His great sacrifice.

As a Byzantine Catholic, we are asked to take fasting and abstaining a bit further on a few specific days during the Lenten season.

On the first Monday of Lent (the day the season begins for Byzantines) we are asked to fast. We are asked to abstain from meat and dairy {basically all animal products}. It is tradition to only have one meal on these days also.

As I stated above, meat is easy, dairy products......not so easy. There seems to be dairy in everything.

A usual meal for this day at my house is french fries or tater tots, a fish, and a veggie. Nothing too spectacular. No butter, no milk, no bread, etc.

We also observe the same fasting and abstaining standard for Good Friday. Again, not hard in my opinion.

The fasting is for only 6 weeks out of the entire 52 week calendar year. Such a small sacrifice that we can make in our lives for our Lord.

In saying that, I am looking for a Lenten meal for dinner tonight. Last week we attended the local fire department's fish fry {super yummy}! I am thinking maybe cheese pizza today........

what are you having???

Are you happy with the Person you've Become?

2011-03-31T12:19:00.000-07:00

Many thoughts run through my head each night while I lay in bed with the tv off before I fall asleep. Last night all I could think about was me.

Me. Myself. This woman I am.

This 25year old woman that I have grown into. This person that I am finally happy with.

I can honestly say that for the first time in my life,

I am completely comfortable, pleased,

and happy to be the person that I am today.

Its amazing how a life can change in so many ways over a quarter of a centuary. Mine has changed for the good, in more ways than one. I have experienced so much already and I cannot wait to see what God has in store for me for the next 50years, how many more times my life will change and I will grow.

I have grown from being a daughter, to a wife, and finally to a mother. I have become comfortable with my views in life and finally have found the strength to keep my own opinions and not be suade so easily by others. I am finally my own person.

I have found what truly makes me happy: my little family, my career, and my faith.

I have finally found me and I have never felt more beautiful!

Peaceful "Me" Time

2011-03-30T08:54:00.000-07:00

As I was driving yesterday I relized that I have been missing something in my busy life lately.

Somthing that I need hasn't been around.

3 songs later {I was in the car, remember}..

I knew what it was

Me time.

The only personal time that I have had lately has been one of the following:

-driving bymyself in the car

-the 5-8mins I get in the shower while Baby Boy is napping

-or the few and far between private moments I get in the bathroom {Baby Boy opens doors now}

So yes, what is missing is quality, peaceful, relaxing Me time.

My next question: Is it possible??

I think I need to schedule one hour a week where I can just sit and relax, write some poetry, read, or do something else for just me.

Don't get me wrong, I love.love.love. spending time with my boys and wouldn't trade it for the world....but a girl has got to have some quality time to herself.

Alone.

In peace.

So when I am meal planning for next week and checking out the schedule, I am going to mention this idea to Hubbs. Just to get an hour of peace to myself.

An hour where I don't have to think about what needs done around the house, what we are having for the next meal, what sound a particular farm animal makes, how many diapers are in the laundry, etc.

An hour for me.

Lenten Reflection: Can you make PEACE??

2011-03-25T12:16:00.000-07:00

But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you (Luke 6:27-28).

Can You make PEACE with someone who has hurt you?

Can You make PEACE with someone you do not particularly like?

Can You make PEACE with all people?

There is so much hate all around us. Many people hurting others intentionally. Why?

It really hurts me to know that there are so many people that use others or hurt others to get ahead in life. {or at least they believe they are getting ahead}.....

But are they?

Either way, do you forgive those who hurt you?? Is it even possible??

Its hard.

When we are wronged by another it seems like it is only natural to be unforgiving toward them or hold their wrong against them. But the Lord challenges us to forgive those people.

And yet, many of us may think that by forgiving those people we are simply:

letting. them. get. away. with. it

But in fact, we are becoming stronger. By simply forgiving those who have hurt us,

we become stronger.

Sounds easy, but is it?

In turn, we need to ask for forgiveness for those we have hurt. Be it intentionally or not, it is what it is.

So take some time today and think about those who have hurt us and those who we have hurt. Reflect on feelings and ask for some PEACE in their lives and in yours.

Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. (Psalm 34:14)

(link up for Lenten Reflections, each Friday until Easter)

Project: vintage sewing machine & table

2011-03-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

Hubbs and I found a project last weekend while we were out shopping {more like window shopping}.

While we were out looking for a piece of furniture to repurpose in our living room as a buffett of some sort.

Anyway, we found this:

I am super excited to figure out what I want to do with this puppy!!

I am thinking I am going to keep it in the living room to display.

Maybe restain it a chocolate brown??

Maybe paint it a washed out white??

Replace the handle with something a bit more vintage sheik??

I am not sure if it works, but I was just looking at it a bit closer and it is threaded {maybe a good sign}.

Anyway, that is my latest. If you have redone s sewing machine table, cabinet, etc....will u share some pics, tips, advice with me?

Oo and if you can spare some thoughts and prayers, many lost their homes in our area last night due to a tornado. Please pray that these people find shelter and peace with the distruction.

Wordless wenesday

2011-03-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

My little book worm

Resourceful Red

Its getting to be that time of year again!

Pinterest: I am an addict

Apparently I took a blog break

BACK!!

Guest Blog: Sarah from Racing Towards Joy

Things I Love Tuesday

Guest Blogger: Danielle from Changing Lanes

Guest Post: Alexandra Rose

Guest Blogger: Casey Wiegand

small things make me sad

WIWW & Handmade Gift Exchange

children in church

Been Busy, so a discount to you

BBQ Pulled Pork in Crock Pot

on my heart: improving myself

New in the Shop

melt

New Color & Item in the Shop!

The Effects of Stress

Purple Rosie **SALE**

VLOG: Questions Answered

Getting Ready for the Vlog: ABOUT ME

Rosies Rosies EVERYWHERE!!!

On My Heart: Self Love

What do you want to know about me??

WIWW: Wedding Edition

Things I Love Tuesday

Happy Independence Day

Now Introducing....

On My Heart: True Happiness

New Sponsor Hello!!

passing on the love: blog award

what I wore wednesday

{Giveaway} winner!!

things i love tuesday

Liquid Love from Mother Nature

On My Heart: Date nights with Kids

Happy Thursday!

wiww & giveaway

(GIVEAWAY) on the Facebook page!!

Feeling undone

O so busy lately

On My Heart: My Rosies

WIWW: My First Time

Red's Rosies: The Shop

SPONSORS

love is all that matters

My Son the Monster

On my Heart: The Growth of the Baby Boy

i'm a slaaaave to the junk

Things I am Loving SONGS

New Look

on my heart: i'm particular

hello june!

Judgement by Fridge

What do you do when its HOT out?

i am participating!!!

Parenting in On My Heart

pearls make me feel pretty

Random Notes about Me

Gardening for the Soul

Flowers are On My Heart

Through Sadness there Will be Light

So much to share!

O hello again

Little Bit of Easter & Winners!

Reusable Produce Bags: Qwerty O

Reusable Wipes Giveaway: Zizzies and Izzies

Once Again Etsy Shop: COUPON

Snuggy Baby Coupon!

The Ole Bag Lady Giveaway

Cloth Diaper Giveaway! GreenChild Creations

Made by MAXX

Lets Kick this thing off Right!!!

Guess what STARTS WEDNESDAY!!!!!

Lenten Reflection: Palm Sunday edition

Its ok to be Content (on my heart)

Things I love Thursday {etsy edition}

I have an IMPORTANT announcement!!

Purple Rosie SALE