Away in a Manger

Luke 2: 12
" This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. "


Well, here we are on the 5th day of Christmas and I've only written a blog one other time this entire month. Sheesh! We've got a lot of catching up to do. Just a few things going on at the "LOAE" (Lipstick on an Elephant), residence...

 Let's start here. A few Sundays ago, my family and I went to a "drive-through nativity" at a local church. What a wonderful experience it was for the whole family. My toddler sat on my lap as we looped around to see all of the actors and live animals out and about, bringing to life the Christmas story. Everyone enjoyed it. My 10 year old even admitted she thought it was great. Being the sap that I am, I immediately started to tear up the moment the actors that played Mary and the angel Gabriel began their scene. What a wonderful reminder of the reason for this Christmas season.

The next Friday, we...MOVED!!!! Yup, that's the big news I was going to share with you, we moved! One week before Christmas, we moved to a beautiful, temporary, townhouse. The week before Thanksgiving, we put our house on the market and within 2 days had 2 offers. We quickly found a big beautiful townhouse to rent because settlement was scheduled within the month; and here we are. It has been such a whirlwind. And I've seen God's hand orchestrating it all. The timing for my family of every last detail, God had it covered! Now, I did use the word "temporary", here. We are hoping to start building our dream home soon. Please pray for this process for us and with us. I know that God has the perfect place for our family to finally settle in.

The week after we moved...Christmas came. "Somehow or other it came just the same! " (Dr. Suess). We managed to get settled enough in that week to purchase a Christmas tree, decorate it, bake cookies, shop and wrap gifts for the whole crew! On Christmas Eve, we met my family at our local church and experienced a wonderful family service full of lessons and carols. My mother pointed out it was the first time in many years that my brother, my parents and me had Communion together. So special!  What a whirlwind it has been; stressful, but also a time full of hope and happiness, too.

Christmas Eve, sprinkling Magic Reindeer Dust .
Someone is so excited!!

Christmas morning, after opening gifts.

This week we are still unpacking and trying to get temporarily settled in. We are so blessed to have been led to this house (go to this link to see the beautiful homes that Ten Oaks Homes builds). I pray that this season has brought you, and continues to bring you, much comfort and joy. Hope was born that starry Christmas night, in a humble way, for all people. The most innocent precious lamb, born in a manger, that was God himself incarnate, born as a sacrifice for us so that we may live eternally. "The hopes and  fears of all the years, are met in thee tonight".

Here's our tree Christmas morning before the children opened their presents.
I just love our new living room. The wood beams on the ceiling are very "Fixer Upper"-esque, and I have a gas fireplace!!

I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!

Not Chip or Joanna

Proverbs 21: 9
" Better to live on a corner of the roof than to share a house with a quarrelsome wife. "


What a verse, LOL! My poor hubby. Although, I have to say in my defense, sometimes it could go either way. Last Thursday, my hubby and I celebrated our 16th wedding anniversary!! Let me tell you, it has been a wild ride! I married a man that knew the instant he met me, I was "the one". He also knew that I had 3 children and that I was going through a divorce, and that my divorce was...shall we say, "less than pretty??" We dated for 3 years before we got married and then, 9 months and 3 days later had our first baby boy. Then less than 2 years later we had our first baby girl, then the year we turned 40 our next baby girl was born, and finally 4 years ago we had our last baby. It's been a crazy, busy life with lots of ups and downs, but a good life grounded in our faith and our hope, and most importantly, our love. Thank you for loving me and being my biggest advocate all of these years, my Love. I can't wait to spend the rest of my years with you.

Here we are about a week before our anniversary in Annapolis.
We were married in Annapolis and lived there for many years. What a beautiful city!

Last Tuesday, November 29th, the first episode of season 4 of Fixer Upper came on. I was looking forward to it for weeks. I missed it.  I really like the farmhouse chic style of Joanna Gaines, and love to see the houses completely decorated and beautiful for it's new owners. That would be a dream of mine, to move into a new home completely furnished and decorated from top to bottom. Of course, a fully stocked refrigerator and pantry would  make that dream even better!! But, what makes the show even better is the great rapport and candor between Chip and Joanna Gaines. It would be just another decorating show without the antics of Chip and the eye rolling of Joanna. My husband and I like to watch it together. I'd like to think that we could be the next Chip and Joanna, but probably not. We have renovated and built our share of houses over the years, however, it would take us years to finish a house, we've been renovating our current home for 6 years!! I think the network probably needs a quicker turnaround time than that. Also, my husband would die before he ate a bug or put an old toothbrush in his mouth. He would be great at telling you how to do things properly and perfectly, though.  I, too, could not do what Joanna does because I wouldn't be able to make a decision about the design or decor of the house. I would be a nervous wreck second guessing myself. Our lucky customers would be walking into a house that had hardly anything done, but what was done, would be perfect. And, they would have a bunch of mismatched furniture because I couldn't make up my mind what style I was going for. So, Chip and Joanna we are not. What I do think we have in common with the Gaines' is our faith and I look forward to reading their new book, "The Magnolia Story".  This would make a lovely Christmas gift for the Chip or Joanna in your life (hint, hint!!).

I can't wait to share some more things with you in the next couple of weeks. Stay tuned. And...if you are missing my blog (I hope, I hope). I hope to be able to write more regularly after the busy holiday season.

I pray the start of your December is making all things merry and bright for you and your family!!

Thankful

Philippians 4: 6
" Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. "


Whew, Lord, let me tell you, I prayed specifically last week for something that I have been praying about for a long time. Last week, with this verse written on the page of my journal, I specifically prayed "with thanksgiving". There is no shortage of God working in my life right now. Not a day goes by that I don't see God's plan unfolding, like a flower blossoming before me. I can't wait to share all of this with you, and in the next few weeks you'll know!!!

Another thing that I'm thankful for happened last Thursday. All of my beautiful children were at my parents house at the same time. It rarely happens these days. So I am extremely thankful that I got to spend the day with them.

Here are some pics from my very thankful, Thanksgiving.

I've been making this pumpkin cake for about 24 years.
My 2nd daughter was born in October, so for her first birthday (and many after) she had a fall theme.
I baked this for her, a spice cake with cream cheese icing, yum!

Here was my highlight...

All of my kiddos (+1) together, in the same place, at the same time!!
(the +1 is my daughter's boyfriend)

 and this...

I jumped in on this one.
Thank you, Lord, for my kids!

Today, I encourage you to pray with thanksgiving in every situation. Sometimes it's hard to see God working when things are going bad. But, He's there all the time, and all the time He is good!

(Genesis 15:20, " You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good...")

Happy Wednesday!!

Party!!

Psalm 34: 8
" Taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. "


This verse seemed appropriate for the last couple of  weeks. I've already tasted and seen Thanksgiving dinner at my parents house. Yummy! Then, later this week, my birthday dinner; and then 2 days later, my youngest's birthday; and the next day her birthday party. Lots of celebrating with good food. Not sure about you, but food is important to me. So many celebrations, so much food! So happy!!

Things have been kinda hectic around here lately. I can't wait to share some BIG things with you. You're just going to have to wait, though, because I'm just too busy right now. Not only that but my "baby", who's going to be 4 on Saturday, is sick. Poor thing. And, it's her birthday week, so she needs to get better quick! This year she opted for a superhero themed party. You know I like a good theme. A theme makes organizing a party so much easier. Another thing that is going to make her party easier for me, is that we're having it at the recreation center where she takes gymnastics. Her gymnastics coach will be leading the children for about an hour, and there is a room where we will be able to set up for the party. So no activities to plan for me, just food and a little decor.

 Here are some things that I'm getting together for her Superhero party...

My girl has chosen, Batman, Wonder Woman and Spiderman as her heroes.
This looks like something I could do...

These look like super simple goody bags that I could make with things from the $ store.

I am so fortunate to have a friend that is going to make cupcakes for the party. Here's what I'm thinking...

I like this idea of using boxes as a cupcake stand.

For food, I'm keeping it simple. Pizza, a veggie tray and some chips. I'll also be purchasing $ store tablecloths in black and gold, red and blue. And that is a wrap. I can't wait to share some pics from the party.

I pray you have a wonderful week!

Nifty for 50

Numbers 8: 25
" but at the age of fifty, they must retire from their regular service and work no longer. "


This is now my favorite Bible verse. I may even have to get it tattooed on my tush (I was thinking forehead, but decided I didn't want everyone to know how old I was!). Well kids and hubby, this is it, I'm giving my 2 weeks notice. I'll go ahead and supervise, but ya'll are going to have start pulling your own weight. It's in the Bible for goodness sake! Thank you, Lord, that you have given me a sense of humor, and that at least I make myself laugh!!

So, in 2 weeks I will be 50. And since you all are clamoring to know what I would like for my birthday, I thought I'd let you in on some of my favorite gift ideas for people in my advanced stage of life.


1. A Day of Beauty.

Many salons offer Spa or beauty packages, for a day of pampering.
Jordan Thomas is a local Salon that has several options, some even include lunch!
Check out some of your local salons for packages and specials.

2. A new outfit (to coincide with said "Day of Beaty")

I love this perfectly preppy ensemble. All of this is from Talbots.

or this adorable sweater would be perfect for a girl who could never have too many navy & white stripes...

Whale &  Nautical Stripe Tinsel-Decorated Sweater- Talbots
Perfect sweater with a pair of jeans and some cute leopard flats.

3. Alex & Ani bracelets.

I'm in love with this Sunflower design. The sunflowers remind me of my baby Angelo,
and this bracelet actually benefits the Alzheimer's Association. 20% of the proceeds from each bracelet sold, will advance research and support for those living with Alzheimer's.
Sunflower Charm Bangle/Alzheimer's Association- Alex And Ani

4. Candles.

I love my home to smell good, and it puts me in a good mood.
Candles are always terrific gift.
Home for the Holidays- Yankee Candle

5. A new phone case and a wireless charger...

OtterBox makes great durable phone cases. While I love my Kate Spade phone case, I've dropped my phone a few times and it didn't take the shock as well as I would have liked (it's peeling, sorry Honey!).
OtterBox Commuter Series- Best Buy

I have no idea how a wireless charger works... but I love the look of this one.
TYLT VU Wireless Charger- Best Buy

Just a few nifty gift ideas for someone who might be turning 50 soon. But I bet these are some good gift ideas for just about any mom on your Christmas or birthday list.

I pray you have a great Thursday!

It's in the bag

1 Samuel 17: 40
" Then he took his staff in his hand, chose five smooth stones from the stream, put them in the pouch of his shepherd's bag and, with the sling in his hand approached the Philistine. "


I have never carried 5 smooth stones in my bag. But, in my bag/purse, I can easily carry several bottles of water, my wallet, makeup bag, change purse, my daughters epi-pen, a stack of napkins from Chick-fil-A, some straws, and enough snacks for my entire family of 6. It feels like I'm carrying around 5 smooth boulders sometimes! Whew, what a week we've been having. I have experienced highs and lows like nobody's business. Thank you, Lord, that the election is now over!! I pray that as a nation we can move on together in peace and in unity: one nation, under God. I know that some of us felt like we were approaching Goliath with only stones in our bag. To some, victory; to others, the agony of defeat. Thankfully in the Bible story above, David was victorious, and his faith in God got him through many other "giant" situations. Not only did David trust in God, he praised and worshipped him. The Bible has a book full of David's ups and downs, highs and lows in the Psalms. Through it all, David trusted in God and worshipped Him. I encourage you to come to God on bended knee in prayer, and with hands raised in worship. He will reign forever, and ever. Allelujah!

Now back to my bag...my purse. As you may or may not know, I have a very limited budget for my clothing and accessories, which is why having a blog in which I comment on fashion is pretty laughable at times. But, we all like to look good and find a good deal, so I'm your girl. I had been keeping an eye on a bag at Nordstrom that I just love. It's a reversible, faux leather tote from Street level. The price isn't bad, either, you can pick one up for under $50. I was going to try to get one until...this bag!!!

This bag!!!  I bought this faux leather reversible tote at...Walmart!
And, was under $50, well under $50. It only cost me $9.97!!!

Here I am actually using the bag in black.

and here in brown.

Cute, right??

Now don't get me wrong, I wouldn't be sad if someone wanted to invest some money and get me a great new handbag... but for me, right now, I'm perfectly content. Thank you, Lord, for all you provide for me and my family. We work hard and want to enjoy the fruits of our labor, but not at the cost of what is important or necessary for our family, church or community.

I pray you enjoy your weekend!

"Ask her Grandma..."

Proverbs 17: 6
"Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children. "


So yesterday, I was watching my friend's little girl (we'll call her "Madeline") who is 18 months old, while my daughter and her friend were in gymnastics. A little boy, who was there with his grandmother, had gotten some cookies from the snack machine while he was waiting for his big sister. Very sweetly, he asked his grandmother if he could share a cookie with Madeline (so sweet!), until she said...and I quote, " Ask her grandma if she can have one. " Yes, in this little story, I am referred to as the "GRANDMA"!!!! Someday, I want to be a grandmother, but right now, as none of my children are married, not so much. I realize that I am old enough to be a grandmother, too. My own parents were only 46 when they became grandparents for the first time. I also know that there are many other people who are grandparents way before they are 49 (I'm almost 50, but not quite there yet!). I suppose it was an honest mistake (humph!), but I don't have to like it! Moral of the story: Don't ask a woman if she's pregnant; she might not be, AND, don't assume a woman is a grandmother, it's way more flattering to ask if she's the mother and she'll love it that you thought she was young enough to be one!

My 50th birthday is now less than a month away. As you may have read in, Fine with 50?, the closer I get, the less thrilled I am about it (especially after the whole grandma thing!). Last night at the dinner table with my adorable family, I tried to tell them what I wanted for my birthday. I never finished my thought. Nobody was listening. I was interrupted and the subject was changed before you could say "Jack Robinson" (I'm not sure why that phrase came into my head, I guess I'm just getting old!). Help!! I'm not ready to be an old grandma yet! I wouldn't mind being the "hot", beautiful grandmother...but I digress. I'd love to know what your tried and true anti-aging tips are. Be honest, be clear, be specific.  Is it essential oils? Which ones? Is it a lotion, a potion, a regimen??? Is it exercise, diet?? Which ones? What are you wearing? (let's be honest, just because you can still fit in clothes from the Juniors Dept doesn't mean you should still be wearing them!).  Please comment below and tell me all of your secrets. I wanna know! I'll give them a try and write about them. Sounds like a plan.

I pray today, that if you are a grandmother, that you embrace it: grandchildren are a "crown". I know how I felt when my brother had children, so much joy and love, and I don't really like him all that much (joke, Mom!).  I can't begin to imagine the love, and the joy I'll feel when my own children begin their families. Lord, children are such a blessing, each one of them. I have had the joy and felt the pain and the overwhelming pride at being called a mother, thank you, Lord, for each of my beautiful children. One day, I hope to be called grandmother (I'd prefer mother and have to correct someone), and wear that crown with pride!

Here's a recent pic of me that I took before I went out to dinner with my 13yr old and her bff.
I didn't feel grandmotherly! I took it because my daughter told me I looked cute ( she's always been my favorite!).

**Don't forget to leave a comment below, I'd love to hear from you,  and tell me about those anti-aging tips. I feel like I'm fading fast...**