Beef with Sherwin Williams and Porter brand paints . . .

*** This post as well as all my post fall in the "my opinion" category. Hence the reason the blog address is kimwheeler.blogspot.com. Since there are a ton of products out there to choose from, it's safe to say that each person can have an opinion about each one - positive or negative. If you don't agree with that or with me, that's okay. Really, it is.

by the way -

we did take the can to be shook up. And it was banana yellow after the shake.

I store my paint inside my house. With me. And my kids. Pretty sure that's a safe place to keep it.

I said the guy at the counter of Home Depot gave the poly knowledge - is he the paint god . . . I don't think so.

thanks - back to the post . . . .

I've made no secret how I have a strong dislike about these two brands of paint.

And I've figured out the cause!!!

But first you have to hear the story {Come ON . . . you didn't think I would have a story??}

I recently changed up window treatments in my kitchen. I went from a long curtain rod to treatments attached to a board. Amazingly enough . . . I actually dropped the curtains from the previous spot {I know, I know - everyone says to raise . . . but I wanted them all the same level and cabinets hindered the "higher is better" standard on one window - so they all are at the lower level!}

The previous rod left some undesirable holes in the wall. No biggie. Just fill them and touch up the paint! Well, we did that - we filled the holes, then touched up the paint. The same paint from the same bucket that was used to paint the kitchen just 2 years ago! Now, my kitchen is a gold color {Deep Pongee - a Porter Paint,} the color in that gallon was a banana yellow. And if I'm lying, I'm dying!

Did I think to take pictures? Uhmm, no! All I was thinking is how I was 8 shades of red, because I was one hacked off person! I HATE Porter Paint! This same thing has happened with us on Sherwin Williams. So, it's not just Porter!

It took me a few minutes to figure out what to do. Thankfully, one of my kids pushed over a chair and the top of the back went through the wall {the whole reason we were trying to patch up the walls!} My husband literally ripped that piece off the wall and went straight to Home Depot for a color match!! Oh, how I love Behr paint!!!! We took the chip so they could clarify that it was NOT satin {that we paid and extra $2,500 for} but was indeed eggshell {YUCK!} that we argued with the guy during our walk thru when we closed on our house {YES - our builder filed bankruptcy - one can only imagine why?!} and so that we could get a perfect match of the color. Due to 2 years and some fading, we were afraid the paint swatch we had from Porter would NOT match what was currently on the wall.

It worked - it matches perfectly!!!! And 2 years from now, when I want to patch up more spots - because I have 4 kids and that happens - that exact same small quart of paint will match - I positive!! By far the number ONE thing I learned when we renovated our last house!

Fortunately, my hubs thought to ask while at the paint counter about the more expensive paints and why they fade in color so bad. His explanation {which totally makes since,}

The expensive brands, such as Sherwin Williams and Porter, use alot of polyurethane in their paints. Over time, to include 2 days or 2 years, the paint and the poly separate. And it is impossible to mix it back together.

So, all you folks that have those left over gallons in your garage after they built your house - THROW THEM AWAY. They are taking up space and you won't like the color if you tried to use it.

My advice is to make sure you do have the color swatch saved somewhere. Unless of course you can rip a chunk of your wall off for color matching! Home Depot and Lowe's can color match just about anything. I've not found anything they haven't been able to so far. Behr is Home Depot's brand as Valspar is Lowe's.

Because I'm just that dang cool!

Soooo, . . . I asked about your timing of Christmas decorating. I normally don't go out this early for mine . . . but I have 4 kids who have been obsessed with the Christmas decor at Hobby Lobby since they came out with it 2 months ago! In honor of my babies - I let them each have a choice in trees - lucky for me, they all went with the same kind, but different colors!!


They even picked out their own decorations {which I limited to only "strings" of something.} This is Carson's - he went on the wild side of "blue on blue" which is more like aquamarine on aquamarine . . . . but you can't tell a 3 year old that and he understand {unless it was Hudson - he could give you the recipe on how to come up with this color at 3 - I'm not kidding.}


Okay - I actually bought Em's tree last year - and good thing, they don't have anything like it this year at the HobLob! And yes, I picked out her beads, too! Don't worry, she was pleased as punch with my choice!

I swear that is all I did - these 4 trees! No lights. No busting out the big tree. Or the stockings. Nativity. Nothing like that!! I've got a few more weeks before that! And I'm not going to show anymore with the hopes that I might join the Nester's Tour of Homes this year! I said might! That takes some planning!

And don't hate me . . .

Check out this oil painting I got for the kids' bathroom! haha - unfortunately, it wasn't packaged correctly! Boo-hoo!! The creases are too deep and no amount of stretching will fix it. Now some poor soul has to paint me up another! But I love it so much - has got to be the funniest thing ever!!

Yesterday, I got the worst headache of all time! About 10 minutes before Lonnie came home, I was face down in the sofa. He had to complete supper, bathe the kids and put them in bed - without me! I slept for over 13 hours!!! That is about how much I sleep in a week! I'm sooo behind - I had big plans for finishing up things - emails - clean my studio/office - put away the last of the Halloween crap! Nothing - nada - not a single thing got done! Horrible feeling to start my Wednesday morning . . . BUT I have NO headache praise Jesus! So, I'm very thankful - I really thought my brain was going to explode. It was just that bad. I don't think it was sinus related {or flu for that matter.} I think I just had a migraine.

It's 6:15 and my day has to start . . . I just wanted to get this post up {since I had every intention of doing it last night!!!} Wishing you all a very productive day!

Halloween 2009 . . .

Let me preface this with . . . . .

No matter what you do, how you do it, the planning, the coordination, the before thought, the after thought, skills, talent, boy or girl, uptight, laid back, sensory integration disorder, talking about your expectations and, of course, the consequences . . . it just doesn't matter. My kids are crazy and expensive {and I love them for it!}

Let's do this in bullet form - easier for you to see the big picture.

* 4 Pirate costumes = $124.78

* 1 kid loving the pirate costumes.

* 1 kid loving his "bones" shirt.

* 1 kid loving an old costume.

* 1 kid thinking that he "wants to be Hudson for Halloween" - Uhmmm, yeah. Sorry Hudson, it just doesn't quite work that way?!

Ended up with . . . .

* 1 pirate {I guess that means his costume cost $124.78.}

* 1 skeleton {from the neck down to the waste.}

*1 shark {a 6-12 month costume from Hudson's first Halloween that some how fit Em.}

* 1 spider {that Hudson squeezed his steroid taking, 4 1/2 year old self into what was suppose to fit "up to 24 months" costume that was bought for Carson and Lawson's {technically} 2nd Halloween . . . but we never left the house that night so the costumes from that year made it to the 'dress-up box' only and never were worn.} I still can't believe he made it fit and he actually wore it.all.night.long. Utterly amazing!


I really don't have a great picture of the kids that night. It was simply crazy. And to keep 4 kids rounded up and try to take pictures, just didn't work for me!


Hudson was totally into ringing the doorbells. While Lawson would yell {really loud,} "Happy Halloween - ho ho ho!" {Don't ask - because we have no idea!!} Em loved the people that were dressed up - the scarier the better for her! And Pirate Carson refused to wear the boot covers over his shoes.


I don't think I laughed so much in my life. My kids definitely have minds of their own and keep us cracking up constantly!

And let me add that we got more candy than we can eat this year. I hope you had as much fun as we did!

A is for Ava . . .

I didn't mean to drag out the last sneaky peeky - just time really got away from me this weekend. Sorry guys! So on to the long awaited piece {at least for 1 momma!!}

image from Layla Grayce

I love this bedding!! That is all I can say about it - LOVE IT! Seriously - how sweet and dainty can it get!

images from Layla Grayce

And she threw in a few things that have the pink background as well! Ahhh! The walls are a pale, soft pink - I'm pretty sure this room is perfect!


I had to step it up a notch for this one. I knew what she liked of other paintings - scalloped edge and the dot roses. But I couldn't just stop there, I added a few things. MY FAVORITE THING is barely visible when looking at pictures {and still barely there with the eye} but it is there!! Look hard at the white . . .


Can you see it?? It is there - promise. Very subtle . . .


You can see 1 in particular here . . . DOTS! Oh yeah, a tone on tone white. Like normal - I have to say - this is about 200 x's better in person! The pink has a pearly finish and is more pink - not HOT pinkish/reddish - the camera just can't catch the true image! {Which drives me NUTS!}


I will admit - this is my favorite right now! But I do love this bedding and want bedding like that for ME! Just don't quite think Lonnie would go for it.

This is a 24x24 that I'm now offering. I have so many of you that want big - I'm trying to oblige! But with crazy shipping charges . . . it makes it seem ridiculous to pay so much to get it to you! BUT I've been working on something - so if you do have a large size in mind that I do not currently offer, let me know and I'll see what we can come up with!

I hope everyone had a great Halloween. I'll try to post pictures of our day later! First I have to get this Halloween decor put up - I'm sick of looking at it!

Question {and I really want to know so leave a comment} - when do you set out your Christmas stuff?? Just curious!

One of the biggest mistakes of 2009!

And I did say "one" - I've made several this year. Some I've blogged about and some I've . . , well, . . . just kept to myself. Who likes to talk about what they did wrong!?!?! Especially when YOU can't fix it!


Well, let me tell you about this one! Oh what a doozy! Do you see it??! Above! Look at it! Don't you see it!?

Okay, maybe this will help . . .


You see don't you?! Really big isn't it?! I mean come on! How in the heck did I get confused! It was clearly typed out on the order form! CLEARLY!

Uh, the bad part . . . I didn't catch it! That's right people!! Bradyn and Austin's mom did!!! In Minnesota! I'm in Tennessee. Not quite the "Hey Kim, noticed a tiny mistake - do you mind coming over in a few and changing it up for me?"


I normally track every delivery that goes out my door. So, I knew the exact moment she received her paintings. I wasn't the bit least surprised the moment I saw I had an email from her. It was a wonderfully written email - had words that I love to hear "love the paintings" "they match perfect" "thank you so much" . . etc. And then I read the "but . . ." and it was this kinda moment . . .



{I even heard that music, too!}

Obviously I painted another one. I had to place the "and" in a different spot because the "y" got in the way if I were to have painted it like the original canvas.

The new one is merrily on his way home . . . to Minnesota. {Jess, you should get it later today!}

If anyone knows a "Brayden and Austin" that share a room that also happens to be decorated in navy, blues, reds and some browns . . . there is a perfect painting for them . . . in Minnesota!

And just so you know I have been working . . .


A little sneaky peeky! {I know how you guys love these!}

Thank you all so much for such kind words and all the prayers. It means so much. Each one was felt! You guys really are the best!

The time has come!

This girl has some . . . .

pigtails!

Asking for prayers . . .

I have no doubt that everyone that reads this blog knows how much I love my children. When I think back on life before my kids, I vividly remember the "something is missing" feeling. Not that I waited too long before starting my family - it really was perfect timing - all 3 unexpected pregnancies. I'm not going to lie - every pregnancy was unplanned - all big shockers - and every time I was filled with nothing but joy and excitement.

But let me tell you, Hudson gave me something special. And all mothers out there know exactly what I'm talking about with your first born. I was the perfect mother!!! Then, of course, I had a kid! haha! The big plans I had got squashed and something bigger and better came out of it! I always referred to my pregnancies as the longest wait for a blind date ever! And knowing that I wasn't going to be disappointed!


As most of you know, Hudson has a little issue with his kidneys since last November. I don't want it to sound like he "suffers" from it - because I don't think he feels severe pain. And I don't like to call it a syndrome - because that sounds permanent. The assumption is that it's a nephrotic syndrome called minimal change disease that we have been told he should outgrow between the ages of 5 and 8. It is purely an assumption due to his symptoms. They cannot say for sure unless they do a biopsy on his kidneys.


The nephrologists have made it clear that this is a somewhat common disease, {although I have NEVER heard of this mess until Hudson got it} and it's not overly serious. And that he should have only a couple of breakouts of the MCD during his childhood and quickly go into remission. Well, unfortunately for us, we have yet to get a break from the original breakout 11 months ago. The 2 times we thought we were in the clear, his urine tested positive for protein less than a week off of the steroids.

So, we go back on an incredibly high dose of the drugs {supposedly} for a short amount of time till we get a negative protein reading. And then we start the ween off process again. By the way - the ween off is about 5 to 6 months long. AND the short amount of time is not short for us - because usually as soon as we get a negative reading and move the dosage down 1 ml - we have a positive reading again. And the dose goes up AGAIN!


I personally have never taken steroids, but I've heard so many people tell me how crazy they made them {or their children} feel. Their doses don't even add up to what Hudson takes daily. I can only imagine the battles he faces internally.

Today was a big day - back to the children's hospital to talk about alternatives. Obviously, it's not working. I'm tired of giving my kid these drugs that do nothing but make him irritable and short tempered. And can leave horrible and lasting side effects. As much as I don't want my child to have a biopsy, I want to fix this issue. I want to know what kind of permanent damage has been done and I want answers. Is this really MCD or is there another something about to rear its ugly head? I was assured constantly that this treatment is the norm and it worked. Seems we don't ever really fall in that typical range.


During the appointment today, the doctor suggested the biopsy immediately. She also said he has been on the steroids way too long. {Ya' think? If she would have thought about it, I told her that the last 2 visits!}

We start the weening tomorrow.

His biopsy is in a couple of weeks.

He will immediately start a new drug that transplant recipients use to help their body accept a new organ. We were told they have positive results with this drug. {Can someone explain to me WHY we weren't given this one 6 months ago?? Oh, wait - we needed the biopsy.}

For some reason it sounds so much more serious now?

And as much as I know it isn't in my hands, it is still my job to do all I can for my child.


I don't think I've ever just outright asked for prayers. But again, this isn't for me either. It's for my son, Hudson Wyatt Wheeler.

I'm {obviously} a find-a-way, make-a-way person. But I have a clear understanding of who is in control. Still though, I can't help but feel the anxiety of the unknown wash over me.

So, I'm asking - prayers, please.

I know some of you think I have died!

I haven't! But I might feel like it in the morning since this looks to be an all niter - I have sooo much to catch up on it is ridiculous. I'm going to cram alot into this post just so you feel like you haven't missed anything . . . okay? So, stick with me - I'll throw some art in the mix for those that don't really care about what is going on, but only want to see what is new in with business! {haha - which isn't much!} So here goes . . . .

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First off - I'm still going through all my emails - please don't give up on me. It really has been chaotic. And then something weird happened to my email account and I didn't get a bunch of mail until a week later! Luckily, I don't get a whole lot of spam - so basically all the mail is legit - but it looks horrible when I don't get back to people asap! And fortunately for you reading this, I thought the blog was needing more attention!

Because it has been something like 18 and a half weeks since my last post - o' yeah, a true slacker in the internet department!

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The boys had a birthday party! I think I made small mention about it in one of my last post. This year we went with a monster theme! And let me tell you . . . the older monster {by 2 minutes} is only slightly obsessed with the monsters now?! We really had a blast this year. I think because they really got what was going on - especially Carson!


This picture cracks me - kinda gross - but funny none the less! I bought these little guys at Target. I had seen them, but when I went back to get them several days later {I was waiting on payday?!} the jokers were gone! So, I ordered them online! They really don't fall in line with my Halloween decor, but they match wonderfully in the boys' room! And it's a good thing - Mr. Monster Obsessed can't stop looking at them!


Unfortunately, I made the cake{s} this year. My caterer friend, {Rachel normally does all my cakes,} is pregnant this year and I was trying to give her a small break . . . . only because I was planning on her making some of her own food for her baby shower! haha - just kidding! But no one ended up in the hospital till several days later . . . so you can't blame any of my cooking!


This picture was taken right after Carson and Lawson opened gifts - this wasn't near the kids we had at the party, but I like how I was semi-trapped by the kids in the corner {story of my life!} Notice I'm still carrying on a conversation AND using my hands during the conversation- sheer talent!


And since Carson has been talking about the "dragon castle" for weeks {after a brief look at one at another friend's party - in JULY,} the world was right when he saw he finally got his own! Seriously people, this boy has been "dreaming" of the dragon castle for the past week because he knew he was getting it for his birthday! It was one of the most precious things ever!

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I also gave Lawson a haircut in the back! This boy doesn't do so well when we get the do done. So, I've been trying to clean up the neck to make the chore easier for my hair doer. It only took me 3 days! And you all will be happy to know that tonight {while he was bathing} I finally got around the ears. It took so long, his water was cold! Oops! Definitely not the best haircut - but they didn't teach that in business school!

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**Home Love Alert**


This was my old faucet. Nothing is wrong with except it was just wrong. That sounded stupid, I know! But let me clarify - My sink sits at an angle. This faucet sits too low and too much water would run off of whatever I was rinsing onto the counter behind the sink. Well, my 5 foot self is just too dang short to reach behind it and wipe it up every freakin' time!!!!! I would have to literally walk around the bar to clean off the counter! It was getting ridiculous!

Okay - and the fact that it just isn't my style and doesn't quite fit in with my taste!!


My plumber didn't get started till 12 {midnight!} But very shortly after . . .


the new guy was installed! I'm not a fan of brushed nickle - but until we redo this kitchen entirely {if we ever do,} nickle is what it will have to be! This style works so much better!!! I get very little "mist" on the backside of the counter and I can easily reach it! Nothing like the puddles of water before.

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We also went to the pumpkin patch.


An incredibly easy corn maze! {Nothing like the one we got stuck in for 4 hours in the middle of the night at Rippavilla 5 years ago! Too bad I didn't have a blog then - that would have made one hysterical post! As a kid I watched Children of the Corn way too many times - not comforting when it's 1 am and you hear very unusual sounds in all directions! And your lost - in a field of CORN!!}


Em had way too much fun in the troughs full of corn!


So what was Hudson making this look for?? Let me tell you why . . . .


He's not a dummy - he wanted to know "what a watermelon had to do with a pumpkin patch!?" Who cares the fact that it weighed way more than he. And sitting on it was the last thing he wanted to do! haha!


Lawson was mesmerized with all the pumpkins - and he was stoked that he got his own! We do aim to please!


Carson wanted to walk so badly. He is really at the age to where he wants to be big. Towards the end of the big day, we let him walk a little. The choo-choo wagon is great for all the kids. And I feel very comfortable walking behind it so I can see all my little chickens. But sometimes we have to give in to the fact that they are growing up a smidge. And let them walk!


Here you can tell how much my daughter DOES NOT look like me!


And my attempt to get all my kids in one picture looking at the camera - who cares that no one was smiling! I love how Lawson has the serious look - he does in every single group shot we have ever done!

I know we didn't dress very "fallish" but I was just wanting pumpkins - pictures were an after-thought!

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And guess who started preschool on Monday!?

Lawson

And though it has only been 3 days - you are not going to believe the difference in this kid!!! It is amazing how they break into his little head! I was a little stressed before he started. For one, he goes to a different school than Hudson. Long story - but Hudson goes to the school we were zoned for last year. They built a new school that opened this year that we are now zoned for. I had the option of moving Hudson to the new school, but I chose to keep him where he was at due to his hate of transitions. AND I was hoping Carson would get in when Lawson did. AND they don't put siblings together. And since there is a morning and afternoon program, I could space it out with one at the old school and 2 at the new one. {Are you following me?} Welp, Carson is considered "typical" so he didn't make it. But Lawson one the other hand, did get in. BUT then I was told that only afternoons were available. I wanted him in the morning {because he still needs a nap} and the simple fact that Hudson was in the afternoon program 14 minutes away at the old school.

So, you just asked me how I was going to be in 2 places at one time? I don't know - I was just going to make it happen! Actually, I prayed to God that He would make a child in the morning session move to another city and give his slot to Lawson. And He did. Okay, so not all of that is entirely true - a child did move, but I didn't pray that. I did, however, know this is exactly where Laws was suppose to be and I really did ask Him to make it happen. And although I was a little stressed about it, I knew it was going to work.

Yeah, I know - WoW!

And let me add - these are not the schools we are really zoned for. We are only zoned for them for preschool - because the school we are zoned for doesn't offer the program we need!

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Last night I ended up in the ER - no pictures! Sorry! I had been in incredible amounts of pain, but it had finally began to subside. And when I say pain, I could barely walk. And I still stayed in tune with the daily doings. Which made it so much worse! Lonnie was so afraid it was my appendix - so he made me go to the hospital.

So, I took my happy hinny to the hospital, checked myself in and waited . . . . forever. I sat there long enough to convince myself I was pregnant! I did! I watched a fantastic documentary on the PBS channel and heard the name "Brooksley" and thought I was for sure having a girl and that would be her name! No lie. I really was thinking crazy. After they pushed around on my abdomen area, we really were concerned it was the appendix. So after some nasty "joo-joo" they did a CT scan.

The results - a ruptured cyst on my ovary! I've had a couple of these in the past - years ago! I never, not one time, thought that the pain I was experiencing was that?! They also saw something else to cause me to have an ultrasound for a little further investigating. Dang birth control pills! Yes, I'm off of them and that is what happened - I'm sure of it! I have another week of so before the ultrasound - I'll let you all know.

So, apparently my husband's vasectomy worked. I now have to push away my plans for baby Brooksley far back in the recess of my mind and forget about it!

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**Art Alert**


The background of this one is white. I just took this picture in the evening - so the lighting is not quite the best!


"Dane" is to match the Oscar bedding by Pottery Barn Kids. Great color combination in this bedding! But of course I would think that - it would match the boys' room perfectly!


The sides are a very pale blue!


The car cracks me up in this bedding! I just like it for some reason! ha!

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Well, I have approximately 2 months to finish up all my current orders! Unfortunately, I found several that were put somewhere other than my clipboard once they come off the printer. These were from a long.long.long.time ago. As embarrassing as this is, I'm going to have to email each of these people and ask if they are still interested in these orders. I have no idea how this over site happened. But it did. I'm fairly organized - but obviously not enough! I really have to get better at it! Ugh! I feel horrible!

But, I'm currently jammin' away to some Christmas tunes to help me finish up the last 70 something orders! I really want to be done with all current orders by Christmas. Two months - I can do this! I can!

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Hello - are you still here?! Unbelievable!

Now seriously - 499 followers!!!! First off - I can't believe that many people follow me. Second - the one more is going to drive me batty for the 500 mark!

Just saying!

I think that sums it all up! Now I have to get some coffee! It's going to be a long night!

My inbox is so FULL all of a sudden . . .

Have you emailed me in the past week??? Well, I think I just got it?!? I just checked my email and I have a TON and they have dates that date back through the week? Let me go through them all and I'll get back to you by tonight.

I thought it was odd that I wasn't receiving much mail - but now I see why.

I have a confession to make . . .

I've just been in a funk lately! You know what I mean? Just feeling plain funky! {If funky can be plain?!} That is why you haven't seen me this week. I hate blogging when I feel this way because it's like I try to bring you down with me. And I really don't want to do that . . really, I don't! So, I stayed away hoping the funk would go away.

Why the funk {?,} you ask?? I don't know - mainly personal stuff going on in my head. Which could be really scary! haha! But I've really had a battle lately about my Christian walk and I'm just not satisfied. I don't like where I'm at or where I'm headed . . . so I've been working on a lot of change the past several days. I've made some decisions that should better not just me, but my family. My husband is ready for the changes and agreed we both need it - so here we go! Big changes ahead for the Wheelers!

I've shown my house tons of home love this week! We moved tons of furniture around. And we added some new stuff! And guess what I finally got?? My last etching framed! Ahhh. . . and I love them so! I couldn't wait to hang them up. So as soon as I got home, I made Lonnie hang them all! And then lucky for me, my upholstery guy showed up the next day with a big treat . . .

Remember this chair???

It was the one I bought at my grandparents' estate auction last summer. Well, check it out now!


Uhmm, yeah . . . it took me over a year to make up my mind on fabric! And yes, I'm in love!

And you all have to remember this post - just scroll through it and look at the pictures especially of the chairs {I'm not asking you to read it again!} Oh, the madness - those horrible chairs! Well, look at them today!


Why, yes - those are those incredibly, expensive pillow {I only pull them out for pictures - even guests don't get to see them in person!} I have to tell you that I love these green chairs so much, but it makes me want color on my walls NOW! I think that is the next big project. And I think I'm going to have someone else decide what color for me - if not, it will probably be about 4 years before I make up my mind!

I was having an issue with lighting in this room. Lamps in particular. None of my lamps "matched?" Does that make sense? I wanted all different lamps, but I wanted them to "work" together! Well, truth be told - mine looked like they were fighting a war against each other! They just look all kinds of ugly in my living room! But I changed that with a couple new ones this week!


This shade matches the blue in the antique rocker. But it looks awesome with this oil, too! I really wanted to move this piece of art upstairs and have only etchings downstairs. And I actually just painted black and distressed an antique mirror for this spot. But I just can't seem to move this painting to my bedroom yet! I love it so much and really like to look at it. I just plan on waiting a week or 2 before I move it!

Speaking of move . . . a friend of mine bought a great table {from the same going-out-of-business-store that I got my fantastic hutch!} I've been trying to talk her out of that joker since I first saw it in her house! I had no idea where I would use it - BUT this girl wanted. it. bad!!

I finally called her and told her I was willing to put our friendship on the line. I would will, deal or steal the joker - take her pick!?! I offered up one of my antique dressers - she could choose which ever one she wanted . . . well, it worked! She said she was thinking she wanted a piece that had drawers {not the doors} so she was willing to give in and trade! My persuasion skills are getting better and better!


We moved my red shelf that was in my studio/office to the boys' room {which actually belonged to them originally!} Which, can I say - that once we got that huge thing in their room it was absolutely PERFECT?! This whole time, I thought it was going to be way too big. So, it never was moved in there! But with birthdays in a few days and Christmas in a few months - we needed something to house more toys! Now, obviously, I haven't gotten this shelf anywhere like I want it. BUT I really like it. And I needed the doors! One day I might actually do something with this room!


And I finally got the boys' birthday invites out! Of course no one will get them till Tuesday and the party is Saturday! Less than one week's notice - shocker! I'm soo bad with invitations {birthday cards, graduation cards, Christmas cards, etc!}

Brrr . . .

It is so cold here! Only 57 degrees and I'm ready to put on a winter coat and watch snow fall! Actually it is drizzly here - which does remind me of a Tennessee Christmas! I really hope I see a white Christmas {at least 1 time in my life!}

And why am I talking about Christmas?? Random!

First we have to get through Halloween! Which we have been getting ready for here at the Wheeler's this weekend. Friday night we made a Haunted Gingerbread House . . . and it was scary! I'm really about my kids using there own creativity and go wild with it, but this about put me over the edge! I'm glad I only bought 1 kit! And let me tell you . . . one.hot.mess!


The worms were an after thought . . . we just started sticking candy on it . . . whatever we had!


I actually had some coconut flakes?! Does look like grass - right?


Carson was too concerned with the green icing!


Lawson kept eating all the candy! After he ate all that was in front of him, he started pulling it off the house! Em, on the other hand, was stoked when she got on the table and started mixing up all the icing.


She kept dumping it on the house!


And the whole time Hudson was upstairs reading?! Didn't want any part of it - although he picked it out?! I have a feeling it was just too messy.

On Saturday night, we made cupcakes. Halloween cupcakes. And the kids loved them!


Hudson has this "no hands" policy when he eats anything messy. Part of that sensory issue.


Em had that "one bite" policy as she tried desperately to cram the whole thing in her mouth! Man, we got a long way to go on these manners - this girl is never going to bring home a suitable husband!


I think this was Carson's 4th cupcake! That he ate with a spoon! ?? I don't know, don't ask! But he ate a really good supper and would actually eat the whole cupcake {not just the icing - some of the others had that small issue.} So we kept giving them to him?! We're such great parents! hehe!


Lawson ate his cupcake, oh wait, did I say "cupcake" . . . I meant icing with a spoon. And when he licked that cupcake slick, the boy found the icing bowl {unbeknownst to us} and ate the majority of the left overs!

I'm shocked that we didn't have upset tummies last night! Apparently we have conditioned them well.

Off to dig out all the Halloween decor! And we have accumulated quite a bit since having children. Carson keeps saying {in his lingo,} "Haa-ween skaws me," (Halloween scares me. Just in case you didn' t speak "carson") with an incredibly hysterical facial expression. Because he is dead.serious. The boy would not wear a skeleton shirt yesterday {I guess Lawson gets that one!}

I hope you all have had a great weekend!

WoW! Did you see how many people wanted to win?

That Nester gets more and more comments every time. Did you see that small words got 1437? That is crazy! Thank you all so much! To get comments like that for a give-away is fantastic . . . I feel so loved! tee hee

I completed another painting! Go me! I still need to pick up some speed if truth be known to hit my end of the year deadline. Speaking of which I made another HUGE mistake that I will definitely be addressing in the next post . . . . I'm trying to figure out a way to word my emails to some folks without sounding like a total idiot! Once those emails are out - I'll blog about it. Promise! I probably will do a "mistake" post and list the great ones of 2009!


On with this new painting {I'm sure more people are interested in that than my flops!} Here are the fabrics. I really like the look of green and black together. I have to say that I've seen a ton of nurseries - really I have - and black is rarely used. BUT I love the touch of black.

This room also has black furniture - which I also adore! The bottom half of the wall is Antique Moss by Pittsburgh Paints and the top half is white. So, with only 3 colors in the room . . . I used all 3!


I'm quite positive the green in the stripe will match the bottom half of the wall perfectly. My intentions were to go a shade or so lighter . . . . but I accidentally matched it. Really that wasn't my intention {because I thought I wouldn't be able to match it!} BUT I did - so let's party!!


You know there is always one letter I love in a name after I paint it - I'm sure you all figured it is the "d" . . . . I'm lovin' how it cruises past the border!

And speaking of green . . . check out what was in my garage as I was wrapping up Em's big furniture redo . . . .


In my garage I said! Thank goodness my husband wasn't home . . . his girly scream would have woke up the napping kids! This joker was fast! I tried to pick him up to throw him out, but I couldn't catch him! But luckily for my husband, he did go back out the way he came in.

And do you want to see a sneaky peeky of the furniture? Oh, I know you do!


It's almost 7 am - I've got to start this day!

It's that time of year again . . .

***edited - - - I'm up. Now, go make me proud! And chant to yourself, "I'm open to receiving, I'm open to receiving, I'm open . . . . . "


You know, when the Nester does her fantastic give-A-ways!! So far there are some fantastic ones! {Not that she doesn't ever have fantastic ones!} But guess who is back in for the give away? Yep - that's me! I almost didn't since I took myself off the market till January 1st, but I thought this would be a good chance for someone to get a piece of art {for free!} So, go on over there . . . . EVERY HOUR {a new give away is posted} . . . . and COMMENT! There is absolutely NO WAY you can win if you don't get in! Open yourself up for some receiving and go win yourself something!!

And btw - I'm giving a 12x24 canvas {of your choice!} When my post is up . . . I'll let you guys know!

Since the Nester is doing the give away, I thought it best I wait a day or two before I start pointing out my mistakes . . . meaning you are going to have to wait for that post I promised! haha

BUT I do have some more art to show!


One of my favorite things about this one is the grass? Just gives that whimsical look I was going after!


Okay - I love the clouds, too! They give that same feel!


Are you guessing what it is yet!?


If you guessed TRACTOR, you win the prize! Alright, I really don't have a prize! But the thought of knowing you guessed right should make you feel warm and fuzzy on the inside!

This joker was 3 feet tall and 4 feet long! I would NOT ship a canvas this size! It was for a local friend and was very easily deliverable!

----------------------

And speaking of this local friend . . . . her name is Jamie and she is the god of craigs list and lsn! This girl can seriously find whatever I'm looking for! Because you know I'm always in the market for furniture! I'm hoping today I can get pictures of all my great finds and post about them! You guys are going to be jealous!! Because of what I got AND because of Jamie's skills! haha!

----------------------

Talking of great finds reminds me that I had to go different than the original plan with my chairs! How can you forget this chawwing post! Well, I must have carried my little frayed swatches around for way too long because they didn't have my chartreuse green for the "ugly chairs." They will still be green but a different green! Something that matches better. Remember how I was concerned about coordinating with my rug? Well this one really does!? I didn't see this fabric before, so I'm glad I found it this time! {But I really liked the pop that the chartreuse would have provided!} Really who cares . . . just get those jokers recovered - right?! Lonnie got those babies dropped off yesterday to my reupholster! Whoo-hoo! No more embarrassing ugly chairs!

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And while we are on the topic of furniture . . . . Em's nightstand and mirror are COMPLETE! I took a day off from painting and painted instead! {That sounds rhetorical?} I'm so excited! Lonnie took this week off from work - so I'm hoping to finish the dresser today and actually get some paintings completed! Uhmm, yeah - I'll let you know how it all works out for me!

I've got that feeling it won't go quite as planned.

----------------------

Since we are on the subject of completed paintings . . . . I've got to get to FedEx at some point to day! I'm hoping with the Mister here, he can get these boxes shipped for me if I get stuck with the kids! So, if you KNOW your order is complete, today should be the day it goes out!

I honestly think if all I had to do was "paint" - I could really get them done! But even the simple things such as writing down all the colors before I put the paints away really slows a gal down! But just in case anyone has the same bedding or wants the same painting they saw, it makes it so much easier to have the info ready!

-----------------------

Time to start this day! I have alot to accomplish. Remember to go see the Nester! Comment on everything! And good luck!

oh.my.word!

So, it is in the middle of the night {actually about 3 am} and I'm perusing Craigs List.

What?

Don't you?

Well, if you don't you are really missing out! Now, I've found some great stuff for great prices. Things that I'm surprised don't have a higher price tag. And I LOVE {of course} when I find something that will work for me for a price I can afford!

But what really amazes me how much some people think their 'junk' is worth!? Now, I know that one man's junk is another man's treasure. BUT come on! I do think there is a time when junk is just, . . . well, . . . JUNK!

The best find of the night had to be this listing . . . .

10 candles, 2 dark wall sconces, one 3 candle brass holder, two pewter candle holders, antique table mirrior, 8x10 picture frame, black leather picture album never used, 8 inch mother mary statue, one wood bowl, one asian design dark metal pot with lid, one wood pen holder. two black and white photos in blk frames, one coaster with changable picture cover, 2 yrds red material-behind 8x10 pic frame- two blk roses with wight wings and heart, porcelin doll, one heart and key ornament, smal round table. asking 100

3 panel asian shade 30$, two panel red double lined micro suede curtains- no lights comin threw these babies!- 40$ pr, burgundy lrg couch cover 80$, two lamps 15 pc, or asking 120 for all 5 items

or 200 for all!


cherry desk not included)

Lonnie and I just sat here and stared - trying to make heads or tails of the picture. BECAUSE it looks like some kind of shrine! Then we started laughing hysterically! We are assuming the table was set up for the picture to use in the listing - but then again, they might display it like this on a regular basis! Who knows!?

My favorite part is the USED candles!! I notice they left that out of the description.

Lonnie's favorite part was how the "cherry desk not included)" was added at the bottom!

Now, seriously - if anyone is interested {and live in the Nashville area - or they might ship!} . . . let me know! I'll email you the link and the phone number that was attached! {Anyone in the market for some black roses with "wight" wings and heart?? haha!!!}

{Later today, I'll post my big-O-screw-up post! Because - you know, I like to tell the world when I make a mistake!} {Okay - not really - but this blog is about the good and the bad!} {and how I fall way short from perfect!} {and let me just add one more of these {} for good measure.}


btw - the spell checker went crazy on this post! And I left them the way they were! tee hee

I've really got it together lately!

Ha! Or so I want you all to think! I'm really spitting these out! Too bad I've not answered emails in days! SO tonight . . . I promise to answer EMAILS!! We are actually about to head out the door but I had promised to get this one up!

I really like the "Sophie Bedding" from Pottery Barn Kids! A great color scheme that will definitely grow with most little girls.


Is it just me or does Pottery Barn not set up the best looking rooms ever? I'd say the only thing missing is a piece of my art! {tee hee}


Yo - PBK . . . call me!


Since I started this lil' business, I paint the most to coordinate with Pottery Barn bedding. They seem to use the same colors in different combinations which makes it easy to match.


I love dots!


I picked this font because I LOVE this "k" . . . just couldn't help myself!


Sorry for such a short post, but I gotta go! Stay tuned . . . tomorrow's edition is about big fat mistakes and how one got away with a misspelling!

Yeah, you read right!

Hey , . . .

Didn't I just blog about this?!? Get ready for a crack up!

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

Confessions of a Procrastinating Perfectionist . . .

Nice title, huh? Couldn't imagine who the heck I could be talking about?!? ha . . .

Let me be honest. These were a struggle for me. Really they were. I started on them several times only to be disappointed in how they were starting to {not} come together. So, each time I hit the brick wall {several times,} I would sit back and wait it out. Normally moving a painting or two ahead of these so I could have a little time to study the fabric a smidge more, change up the stripe pattern or think about what to change in general?!

Or what I couldn't change.

I kept thinking what I knew had to stay . . . what was my direction {which I need - so don't confuse what I'm saying with I don't want specifics because I do!!!} Again, I need them!


The multi stripe fabric {above was used as an accent fabric in the nursery.}


And the Cottontail toile as the main fabric. Definitely a "nursery feel."

The "Maddox" painting should be used as the inspiration. So, I'm thinking clean but with a fun font.

Only use blue, green, yellow, strawberry (not red), and white stripes that are found in the multi-stripe fabric but not the pinks. Red would be too harsh . . . and the pink . . . well, this is for 2 boys! I wouldn't dare want to see pink in my boys' rooms either {even though Carson always wants to eat out of pink bowls?}


The names, Stephen and Gregory, should appear in a complimentary or contrasting blue. I'm thinking she wants this to scream boy, yet be in a "cutie" nursery. I totally agree.

That was my list of specifics. And this font! {O - how I love this font . . . great choice by the way!}


But again, I was stuck! For some reason it takes me awhile to think outside the box!! Since I knew I was doing stripes, I was desperately mixing and matching colors to the stripe fabric . . . .

That was my FIRST mistake! The stripe fabric is very "chambray" looking. So, my paints were looking to "flat" up next to the fabric. Then it hit me, I needed to match the toile?? That color has much more punch! And though the two look fantastic together, the toile has the splash of color I wanted to borrow.



And lucky for me I had a bolt of it here! SO, it really matches!


I thought about posting pictures of the original two canvases . . . . but decided against it. They were really looking THAT bad.



I do have a little pride with these . . . only because I can see what they "could have" looked like every time I look over to my right where 2 canvases lean against the wall {in shame!}

Sometimes I'm on it immediately. I have the vision and it easily comes together. Other times . . ., well let's just say it doesn't work out so well. But never fear, I'll continue to work on the canvas till I think it is perfect for your spot!

The rain actually held off for the . . .

. . . . wedding! I was wrong . . . it wasn't close to a river?! Could have been with all the rain - but it wasn't! People let me tell you - if this was the place I chose to get married, I would have done the same thing! This yard was sooo gorgeous, that I would have married my husband in the rain no matter how hard it was coming down! It was just that gorgeous!

And I took pictures! Forgive me, I meant to bring my big-daddy camera . . . but forgot! These are all by my phone {which has been the biggest pain in the rump to get from there to here!} Anyone else have an EnV touch??? I know hate is such a strong word, but since my phone is an object and not a breathing/living creature I think it is safe to use it here . . . . I HATE THIS STUPID PHONE!

Well, I feel better since getting that off my chest! And as soon as I can get to the Verizon store, I hope to have a new phone . . . preferable one that likes me and will work when I use it.

Okay - back on track here . . . pictures . . .

let me just say this was the groom's mother's backyard. And it was over the top perfection. It is what I had pictured when I was little reading the "Secret Garden" -

walls of 9 foot hedges.

spindly trees.

fountains.

iron gates.

shade lovin' plants.

vine covered arbors.

rock covered paths.

And when the wind blew just right . . . a wind chime. And not one that sounded like silverware clanking on an aluminum pie plate, but one that sounded like church bells on a clear, crisp Sunday morning.

I got chills.

It was perfect.

I only wish I had a real camera with me to take real pictures! I'll go back and get some because I want my yard to look like this. And the hubs has to go to see it so "we" can make that happen!


This final picture is the back of the yard. It bumps up to a church which gave them permission to use their parking lot for the guest's parking. How perfect it is that they had a gate from the lot to the yard?? And it had a meandering path that led through all the gardens into the open spot where you saw all the chairs {that were anticipating rain as they were covered in plastic - hah!


Too bad we didn't see any of the wedding . . . we were too busy at the reception site preparing to feed everybody!

And because I know you all love a sneak peek . . .


!!!!

Another rainy day!

It is sooo wet here. We actually have some areas that have started to flood. I've lived in this town the majority of my life and I don't ever remember it flooding like this?? We'll be turning into ducks soon.

BUT our grass is really green?!?!

Some really sad news for today {although I doubt it will hurt you as much as it did me!} The chest that I bought for Em's room - well, I didn't get it. The jokers that had it listed on Craig's List thought it was me that picked it up last night?? I still have not figured out how it happened other than maybe the other people called yesterday AFTER I emailed {b/c they had their number listed on the listing} and they got the directions and just picked it up.

**{sniff}**

It probably was stinky or something. Like, pirate stinky?! And I wouldn't have been able to get the smell out and all of Em's clothes would stink because it would absorb the pirate smell. And then she would be a cute and a stinky little girl . . . . and I really wouldn't want that. So, it happened for a good reason! I didn't need a chest of drawers that smelled like a pirate. {still sad though!}

But - as promised, I have more art to show!! It took me forever to find a great picture online of this bedding. Everytime I would click on a pic . . . it was super tiny! I can't work like that! BUT alas, in my google search, I found a blog that had some incredible pictures!!! This girl made my heart sing when I saw what all she had for me to go by!! I've totally lifted some of them . . . . and left her a note that I did . . . . so they might disappear if she asks me to take them off!

This is sweet baby bedding. I mean, who doesn't love some argyle?

The bedding is by Wendy Bellissimo called Argyle.

picture courtesy of The Southern Belle Baby

Here is a better close-up of it . . . so soft! And light!


I've learned to go a little bolder with the colors on the art {rather than lighter.} I did distress this one a bit!

picture courtesy of The Southern Belle Baby

The navy adds a perfect contrast!


The "kipton" has already found it's home since it was shipped off many, many days ago! It got there just in time for the baby shower! I was emailed immediately and told it was "perfect" and apparently, it made it on the wall before the party was over! {thanks for letting me know! I was tickled pink!}

I have to tell you guys that this is the first time I've ever done the diamond pattern {I did this painting before I did the one in yesterday's post!} SINCE my very first EVER painting! You know, the one that has Hudson's name on it?! If you are new to the blog and have no idea what I'm talking about, considered yourself LUCKY! It's heinous! There is a post about it somewhere on the blog . . . but I'm not looking for it to link to it! Only because it is that bad!!!

Well, I'm off to the hospital - my friend Rachel had baby number 4, lil' Eli! I'm officially NOT the only one with 4 kids in our group of friends! Like me, this is her last as well. I've been waiting very {un}patient for HIS arrival. That silly girl DID NOT find out the sex?! These 9 months have just about killed me not knowing - I seriously didn't think I was going to survive! But I did. I'm here to talk about it. Whew - I'm glad she isn't having anymore if this is what she would do each time!!!! {I'm kidding!}

After the hospital, I have to help my other friend {who also is named Rachel} cater a wedding.

That is suppose to be outside.

Next to the river.

If it rains, they really don't have a back-up plan {?} we are told.



Hey, did I tell you it has been raining for days and a LOT of areas are flooded around here??

I'll be sure to blog about this one. I have a feeling it will be blog worthy.

I've got one question . . . .

****edited - so this video no longer works!

try this link . . .


After the whole Kanye West thing and the VMAs, I had to see what the big deal was about Beyonce's video. I couldn't find a video that I could post, but she practically does the same moves on stage at the awards show.



So, I ask . . . how does a person MOVE LIKE THAT?!?!? Seriously people!? I didn't know that was possible!!!


My kids want to know too!? These three froze to watch the video - mesmerizing obviously! You ask where the 4th one is?? Lawson was dancing! And singing the "uh-uh-oh, uh-uh-oh, . . . ."'s. When I tried to take his picture, he would stop. ???

Toile - does it ever go out of style??

Uhmmm, that answer is NO!


I was asked to paint to match P.Kaufmann Central Park Toile in Blush. Here is the link if you are interested in ordering some of this cutie stuff. After going back and forth between everyone involved . . . . which included an awesome interior decorator . . . . we decided on this . . .


Now, I want to show you the room it is going in . . . .


"Hello, can I move in there??" I just can't tell you all how much I love this room! So neutral with just a slight touch of pink! And if I read right, {I think} that the majority of this stuff went through her first 4 and they were BOYS!!!!


And did you notice the light fixture?? That is if what you do if you ever get stuck with 'what-to-do-when-you-want-the-chandelier-but-need-a-ceiling-fan' dilemma!

This picture is a crack up! Can you guess what goes where the stick-chick is?


Her painting! Is that skinny thing suppose to be me?? haha - please say yes! {I wish I was a stick-chick! Four kids didn't help me any!}

Sad part - they are moving!!! Military people!

***ADVICE ALERT***

save the cellophane that the art comes wrapped in AND wrap it YO-SELF! Don't let the movers do it! Another military fam that recently moved discovered what happens when the movers wrapped her art with news print . . . . I'm crying with her! It is horrible! Laura - we'll fix it somehow! {Got to get that color to you!!}

I've got to get this day started! TGIF! I have to finish up some stuff today!! {like matching twin painting!}

Guess what . . .

okay, yeah - 2 post in one day? From the one who hasn't posted in forever?? But this is important!

I'm about to buy something else for Em's room . . . .


Oh yeah, baby! Another Craig's List find {thank you Jamie!} I mean seriously - do you think I could find 'only' a chest for sale again?? And it matches my dresser and night stand? Did I say "my dresser and nightstand" . . . I meant EM'S! That is what I meant. For her, NOT me! Let's just get that straight! As a child, I would have hated something like this. I'm being for REAL! And I would have really hated it EVEN MORE with the finished look I'm going for! haha! Something happens to you after you have 3 boys and finally that girl comes along!

I will not deny . . . .

I get teary eyed when I think of the ballet class she WILL be going to. I hope she doesn't have other plans because I hate to ruin them.

The doll house we will build together is going to be magnificent. {You guys should see the one my aunt has/had . . . Debra do you still have that lil' Victorian Jewel??}

I'm determined to make pink her fav-O-rite color . . . O - well goodness me, it is! {without my help!}

. . . man, I hope her free will isn't too strong - OR we're gonna have a problem {okay, so I'm totally just kidding!}

But she will have the best doll house ever {with some working lights IF I CAN HELP IT!}

I'm trying to get back into the swing of things . . .

So, our new schedule is kicking my boo-tay! Obviously - you all have seen very little of me! This week, I had a lot of orders that HAD to go out! Which of course - caused the blog to be pushed back even more! BUT I'm back {for today atleast!} We do have some things to do early this morning, so I will make it brief! Hey, just know that I have a lot of art posts coming up because I've completed a few!


Check out that room! LOVE these colors for a kid's room {but you all should know that by now!} This is PBK bedding. I do want to point out that Pottery Barn sold prints to coordinate with the bedding. See them?? When I was asked to do some paintings for this room, I swear I asked about "why" not those {although to me, it was obvious!} She had ordered them and wasn't 'quite' satisfied with the overall look of them. And I completely understood.

I like coordination, but not the matchy-matchy look myself. I probably matched these up a little more than I'm use to - BUT it was after I saw the prints that were sold to coordinate?! Jeesh!


I was asked to paint a seal and elephant. There is alot of circles going on in the bedding - so I threw in a lot of balls!


I did a little extra shading!


My elephant blows bubbles . . .


I love this red bed in this picture! {That has NOTHING to do with my paintings - but I thought I would tell you all how much I love it!}


And for the big reveal . . .



Far cry from the prints.


And because it has been so long for a sneaky peeky!

So after 3 boys, my girl is a climber! She can scale any flat object {such as the cabinets} and get to all the unknown areas in our house?! Then of course she gets stuck - such as in the picture below?!


She was suppose to be ready for bed! I have no idea where her pants went? And do you notice how wet her onesie is?? Home girl here was trying to brush her 2 teeth . . . even though I had JUST BRUSHED THEM!!!

And yes that is a beach towel hanging on the bar! We are the rednecks that use them at bath time. Okay - not the adults, we have pretty, fluffy, white towels - but the kids always use the beach towels!!

I'm sure . . .

. . . she didn't know how big that hole was till it was filled.

The Womble Times

Praying for one happy family . . .

So, it has obviously been a while! I've actually accomplished some things. It is amazing what can happen in one week when you stand your hair dresser up for your appointment, You pull your kids out of Mom's Day Out, your speech and feeding therapist has to cancel her standing appointment times with your kids and the teacher that comes over for an hour each week gets a day off due to Labor day! I'm not complaining . . . except for the haircut part. If you see me within the next several weeks, don't expect me to talk to you. I'm going to avoid everyone! I couldn't get back in for a haircut for another month!!!!! OMGosh! I might have to document how much my hair can grow!

I promise to try my best to be back here tomorrow to show you some of what I've done! But for now I want to dedicate the rest of this blog entry to my friends {in real life} - the Wombles. I've known them for more than half my life. And for most of that, we {all their friends} have known they were going to be adopting a baby from China. Seriously, they have been talking about their daughter in China since about the time they got married {uhmm, a decade+ ago!} We have known about this little girl before we knew about their other two children. First off, we knew this baby was a she, pretty confident in the fact that she would have dark hair and dark eyes and positive she was coming from China!

Well folks, the day is here - in approximately 4 and a half hours, they will meet her . . .


I'm so excited that I can't stand myself. My stomach hurts and I've got anxiety something awful at this moment. This sweet and beautiful baby was born only 2 days after Em. Since we have known whom the Wombles were adopting, I've compared Em to her the entire time. And they actually have very similar stats. I can only imagine what comparisons my friend Mommy Womble has been doing the whole time.

This sweet and beautiful baby has not been in the typical orphanage, but has spent the majority of her life with a foster family. Which to her is her family. We all are so concerned about the transition. In any situation such as this, it has got to be hard for the child. So young with a communication barrier. And I don't mean the fact that the Wombles can't speak Chinese. I know when I talk to Em, she just smiles and points to everything and says, "this." ??? I wonder what MeiMei will be thinking. I wonder what type of grieving her foster family will go through? Although they knew it was a temporary situation, at the same time I'm sure they were hoping that some how she would never leave. As happy as the Wombles are to finally have their puzzle complete, others in this situation are going to be missing a huge piece of theirs. It breaks my heart while at the same time I am rejoicing.

China has blogger blocked {is anyone surprised?} But the Wombles can check their email. A friend is posting while they are gone so you can really see some of what they see. I urge you to visit their blog and comment. She asked for comments because she was told by other adoptive parents that "comments are your lifeline to home." Please do me a favor and comment. I just want them to know that they have a ton of people thinking and praying for them.

Come on guys - on a day I put up a new post, I easily get 800 hits. I want to blow her stat counter threw the roof! Will you please do this for me?!?! Read this and I know you will want to -

Today is our one morning--our ordinary day--except it is anything but ordinary. Prior to today, September 14 has been just another day on the calendar. After today it will never be ordinary again. Much like May 8. November 25. June 18. March 27. All are dates within the circle of this family. Days that changed our lives for the better. We are on an emotional roller coaster this morning as we contemplate what is about to take place. We are thrilled to finally greet this day--MeiMei Day--although our overall feelings are bittersweet. Today MeiMei will transition from her foster family to her forever family. To most that would seem like a glorious day. It is, for us, but not necessarily for her. While we have loved her for months, even years, the reality is she has not loved us. We know she is going to grieve the loss of those who have cared for her over the past 18 months. How do we explain to an 18 month old that we have loved her from afar--we have prayed for her since before her birth--we are not temporary--we are her forever family in ever sense of the word? We know the answer. It isn't possible. Our request today is for you to pray specifically for MeiMei. Please pray that the God who knitted her together will comfort her. That somehow, beyond fear, language and cultural divide the peace that can only come from Him will surround and comfort her grieving heart.

I need to leave a real comment on this last post. I got the cry-baby syndrome when I read it that I couldn't think of anything to say! Figures, I'm always at a loss for words when it really matters!

So, go NOW to The Womble Times! And let them know you were there!