Our Full House

Christmas Giveaway at 5 Mins for Mom

2011-11-30T03:47:00.000-06:00

Check out 5 mins for mom they run this giveaway every year. See what they are giving away this year.

A Book Giveaway

2011-07-07T20:14:00.000-05:00

My real life friend Kim C. over at In A Shoe in giving away the book Large Family Logistics. I have been wanting to get this book since I first saw it had been released. I stumbled across her blog years ago. Of course she had mostly stopped blogging at the time due to a baby of hers being born premature. I found the blog very interesting. I had only wished I had found it sooner. Now all her wisdom of the logistics of a large family are in this book. So head over there and find out how to enter. But wait!! She is not the only blog hosting the contest.so are the following...
Smockity Frocks
Raising Olives
Common Room
So go to each of them and find out how to enter.

Christmas Giveaway 2010

2010-12-02T16:30:00.000-06:00

Okay better late then never right? This giveaway has been extended until Dec. 4 so you have a few days left to sign up. 5 mins for moms is having there yearly Christmas giveaway. Go here to see the rules and how to participate. Good luck.

The Baby Conference from Vision Forum

2010-04-20T15:54:00.001-05:00

So have you heard? Vision Forum is hosting a The Baby Conference in San Antonio, Texas. A Historic Family Summit on the Triumph of Life Over the Culture of Death. There is going to many wonderful speakers.

The Ultimate Blog Party 2010 Party Post

2010-04-13T11:56:00.000-05:00

Have you been to the Ultimate Blog Party at 5 mins for mom. Well click on the above banner and head over there.

So this is my party post. I would like to thank everyone for coming over for a visit. For those of you who are new let me introduce myself. I am a SAHM of 8 children (5 boys, 2 girls and another boy). They are the joy of my live. I am also married to a wonderful man and have been for 16 years. I homeschool them. I also make bows, key fobs and such and hope to open a web store to sell them. I know that my blog photo is out dated. I need to upgrade it soon. They have all grown so much and the baby is not on there and he is 9 months old.

There are alot of nice prizes this year. Of course I would love to win the grand prize but some of the other prizes I like are as follows:

US71 Build a Bear gift certificate
US104
US4 bracelet
Intl 1 Wordpress blog
US48 Pampered chef prize
US3 $150 rocking horse
US15 $25 Disney gift certificate
US18 Gift basket
US105 get fit pkg
US72 Your Shape for Wii
USC29 multi-language DVD

then any of the following: USC39, USC35, US7, US101, US112, USC3, USC8, USC13, USC15, USC37, USC53, USC58, US73, US74, US87, US32, US36, US49, US52, US61, US84, US88, USC25, US107, US113, US114, USC36, USC32, USC40, USC44, USC63, US37, US31, US55, US56, US10, USC33, US45, US9, US108, USC10, US78, US22, US35, US8, US83

Now go on over to the party and check it out.

New Creation Skirt Giveaway

2010-04-12T11:01:00.000-05:00

Kim C. at http://inashoe.com/ is have a contest to win a skirt from New Creations. They are modest skirts. Go check it out.

The Modest Mom: Marie Madeline Giveaway!

2010-03-31T02:43:00.000-05:00

Go to The Modest Mom: Marie Madeline Giveaway! They are giving away a pattern of your choice from Marie Madeline. They have wonderful modest patterns for girls and ladies and also some purses. Check out the post and enter to win.

Christmas Giveaway

2009-11-12T16:27:00.002-06:00

5 Mins for Mom is having a Christmas giveaway on there site. It started on Nov. 5 and will be going on until Nov. 26 but you will have until Nov. 30 to enter the contest. They will announce winners on Dec 1. So go over there and check it out. Good luck!

Back to School Giveaway

2009-08-27T17:43:00.001-05:00

5 mins for mom is hosting a back to school giveaway on there blog. There are fabulous things to win. The deadline to enter in tomorrow Aug 28 so hurry on over there. To get there click on the button above.

Noah's First Portraits

2009-08-07T18:59:00.004-05:00

Well we had some portraits made today. He is 6 1/2 weeks old. My how time flies. His personality was really showing thru during the photo session and his photos are so expressive. So I hope you enjoy some of my darling mans photos.

Now I love his little feet and hands and the photos on his tummy. He loved being on his tummy and kept pushing with his feet and almost pushing himself over or on his face but he just kept trying. Seemed to have an attitude of I know that if I just keep trying I will be able to move from here. LOL
I just love my little man.

Arabella's New Look & Happy 2nd Birthday

2009-07-31T16:10:00.004-05:00

Okay I never intended to cut her hair this soon. I have never cut Katie's hair. But Arabella's hair kept falling in her face, in her eyes. She looked like a sheep dog with all that hair in her face. I would put it up in ponys, pig tails, clip it back. Well she started taking everything out of her hair. I would tell her no when I would see her try to pull it out, would put it back in when she took it down, but it kept happening and well lets face it I can't follow after her every second of every day to make sure she isn't taking it out. I do have a new baby to care for. So my cousin made a suggestion..."What about bangs?". Bangs I don't want bangs in her hair. I know how hard it was to grow out my bangs when I was very little, because I just didn't like bangs. But one night after I finished feeding the baby, I just had it with her hair. So I got out the scissors and cut bangs in her hair. I have NEVER cut bangs in anyones hair. In fact the only hair I have ever cut has been Cedric's and the boys and I just shave there hair. I think it looks okay even though I see all the places it could be better. Of course, I don't really know how to fix it either. So this is her new look and it has grown on me. I really like it. I think it makes her look a little older, although that could also be because she now has a baby brother and she also just turned 2 on the 28th. I can't believe she is 2. She is a sweetie. She is talking more and more although I am not quite sure of the language she is speaking. Some is english and some is some baby language that only she seems to really know. LOL She loves her baby brother although she also loves to poke at him. She is so different than Katie. She is more quiet & reserve and seems to observe the world. Happy Birthday Bella Boo We love you!

5 Weeks old

2009-07-31T15:59:00.003-05:00

My little man, Noah is now 5 weeks old. I can't believe it!! Where has the time gone?!! He is changing so much. He smiles alot and is just the sweetest thing. So here are a few photos from the last 5 weeks.

One Month Old
Katie aka "little mommy" (so she thinks)

Our new arrival! Noah David Spencer

2009-07-10T17:25:00.009-05:00

Okay sorry guys that this post is so late in coming but things have been crazy here. Noah David Spencer was born on June 24, 2009 at 12:49pm. He was 8 lbs 7 ozs and 20 inches. Funny story though in the delivery room he weighed 8 lbs 5 ozs, but when they got him to the nursery he was 8lbs 7 ozs and they say that is the official weight. LOL Anyway we both came thru well. He is adorable has a wonderful head of hair. Katie absolutely adores him!! Of course, did anyone doubt that. She wants to be a little mother to him. Arabella loves him and is so sweet to him, but is insecure about his arrival and is just upset with everyone else in the world. Although she is begining to get better with this. All of his brothers adore him too. Arabella hates for him to cry. She runs around saying "crying, crying, baby crying" in her cute little girl voice. Daddy has all of a sudden become "HER" daddy. She understands that she must share me with Noah, but daddy is off limits to the baby. Cedric was able to take off from both jobs at the same time for two weeks. It was nice to have him here during this transition, something that we haven't had before. He went back to work yesterday. I was in the hospital from Wed until Sat and then came home. I enjoyed the bonding time alone with Noah in the hospital but was so glad to be home with my husband and other children. Noah had to be in a bilirubin "blanket" (more like a belt) and pluged in all day except for feedings for a week. We just got him off the blanket yesterday. My aunt nicknamed him "glow worm" since the blanket glowed under his clothes. So it has kind of stuck. LOL Well I need to go feed Noah, he is calling. Here are some photos of our first few days with Noah. Will have to add more later.

Noah Sleeping
In the OR right after he was born

Cedric ready for the OR
The girls meeting there brother for the first time
Brandon & Noah
Mommy & Noah
Nathan & Noah
Arabella & Noah
Katie & Noah
Steven & Noah The oldest & youngest
Andrew & Noah
Marshall & Noah
Sleeping
Cedric, Brandon & Noah

Katie & Noah

Swagbucks

2009-05-12T20:12:00.003-05:00

Okay my friend KimC. over at Life in a Shoe has been doing this so I finally signed up for it also. You earn "swagbucks" and them redeem them for prizes. KimC. is going for a serger. So go ahead and sign up.

Mother's Day Giveaway at 5 Mins for Mom

2009-05-09T11:48:00.002-05:00

Okay I know I am late, but I have been busy not to mention very pregnant. So today is the last day to enter so head over there right away and read the directions on how to enter and go enter all these wonderful contests. There are lots of wonderful prizes.

New Arrival Date!

2009-04-27T12:34:00.002-05:00

Well I got a call this morning from my ob's office stating that the June 22 was unavailable for my delivery. So it has been scheduled officially now for June 24. Now I hope this doesn't change. As hubby only has a week off from the one job. So Noah will now be born on a Wed.

Some Easter Photos

2009-04-15T20:40:00.009-05:00

This is the closest thing to a family photo as I could get. Katie decided it was time for church and was in the van ready to go.

Well here are some bows I made to match the girls dresses. First Katie's...
then Arabella's
Now Arabella wouldn't stand still so I had to hold her, but she had to make a face in every photo. Silly girl.
Of course Katie needs no help. She loves to pose for the camera. Only problem is to get her to be still long enough to snap the picture. She always wants to jump or repose herself. Unfortunately the sun was also a problem as it was shining right in her face.

Updates! Baby and otherwise

2009-03-18T16:04:00.004-05:00

Well it has been a while since I have updated the blog. January saw two birthdays in our family. Nathan who turned nine and Steven who turned 14. Yes 14! It is hard to believe. In February we had a new addition come into the family (no not the baby) but a big blue 15 passenger van. It is so nice to drive in a vehicle that everyone fits in and with plenty of room to move around in. March 12 Cedric and I celebrated our 15 wedding anniversary.
Well I know that I told everybody I was expecting back in Nov. Well we are having a BOY! We were a little surprised that it was a boy are happy and excited. Since I am having a scheduled c-section our dr set the day today. So our little boy will be born on June 22. We are praying that everything will work our for the best and the baby will have no problems in being born before his due date. Most of my babies have run almost 3 weeks late so for him to be born early worries me a little. Although I am trying to place it in God's hands that he will be healthy and well at birth.

Cyber Shower Party Post

2008-12-08T21:46:00.004-06:00

Sassyfrazz is having a cyber shower.

We are having some party games.
First a first photo of Daddy with the baby. This is Cedric and Arabella.

Second party game to guess the weight of her second child. My guess 9 lbs.

My list of prizes I'd most like to win:
1. See my designs
2. Gift certificate Chesapeake Ribbons
3. Cushie Pushie
4. My mommy's bracelet gift certificate
5. AhGooBaby

Christmas Giveaway at Five mins for Mom

2008-11-28T03:30:00.001-06:00

Five Mins for Mom is having a Christmas giveaway with all kinds of goodies to give away. But you have to hurry as the last day to sign up is Nov. 28, 2008 at 12 EST.

SO go check things out and maybe you will win something.

BBM Package

2008-11-05T11:50:00.002-06:00

My BBM (Blogging By Mail) partner was Courtney at Cooking Up a Family. She sent a lovely package. She sent me 3 votive candles, a box of Stash decafe Vanilla Chai Tea, some halloween colored sprinkles, a bag of Apple Pancake mix, M&M Christmas Cookies in a Jar and Halloween Smores in a Jar. Those jar look so wonderful! Can wait to cook them up. I love the idea of the Apple Pancakes. I know the tea will be well enjoyed can't wait to try it out. She send a lovely card with a short note. Thank yo so much Courtney it is a very nice package and it will be enjoyed.

A New Addition

2008-11-02T06:41:00.002-06:00

There are babies everywhere, no at least pregnant mommies everywhere. Several woman from church, friends, family and even some blog friends. Well it must be very contaigious because I am pregnant too. It appears the baby should be due somewhere around the 4th of July. We are truly excited and thankful to God for this new little blessing.

I am now a Gold Canyon Demonstrator

2008-11-01T04:56:00.004-05:00

Okay, yes I am still working on my boutique on-line store and hope to have it up and running soon, but I have decided to also sell Gold Canyon Candles. I have always loved candles but never burned them much as I never was satisfied with the amount of fragrance. Earlier this year a friend of mine held a Gold Canyon Party. The demonstrator was also a friend. I fell in love with these candles. When I got my order home and lit them they were wonderful. The scents were strong and beautiful. I was happy with every scent I selected. They burn evenly and I was completely hooked. Well I went to an open house at that demonstrators home and she talked to me about selling Gold Canyon myself (she had seen where I had looked becoming a demonstrator on her website). So after talking to my hubby I decided to jump in.
So if you would like to order some Gold Canyon candles you can order from my website. Just click here and it will take you over to my site. I maybe a little crazy but I think I will enjoy this.

Pink Tag & Giveaway

2008-10-16T14:59:00.005-05:00

Our 2 Peas in a Pod are having a giveaway for 2 pairs of pink earrings. To enter follow the link above.

The rules for the tag are to take pictures and post on your blog~ 5 Pink items you use daily. Then tag at least 3 other people with the Tag and Giveaway information.

1. My pink mug

2. My daughter Katie all pretty in pink

3. My daughter Arabella Pretty in Pink

4. Pretty Pink clippies for my girls hair that I make

5. Pretty pink bows that I make for my girls

I tag the following people:
1. Mother Hen
2. Kim @ In a Shoe
3. Stephanie @ the Greenhouse

Labor Day meme

2008-09-01T15:11:00.004-05:00

In honor of memorial day, http://rocksinmydryer.typepad.com/shannon/2008/08/laborious.html has posted a labor day meme. Now I found it over at Kim's In a Shoe Blog. I have blogged my birth stories before and you can find them here.
To play along, just copy the questions to your own post and go leave your link with Mr. Linky at Shannon’s place. Please take a moment to leave your link here in the comments too - I would love to read your post!

How long were your labors?

1. well braxton hicks contractions started at 6 months until I went into labor. This one was 3 weeks late so almost 4 months. Now actual active painful labor was about 7-8 hours.
2. again had Braxton Hicks from about 7 months. He was only 1 week late. Actual active painful labor was about 7 hours.
3. Okay with this one I was in active labor for 25 hours (1 of those was pushing).
4. This labor was 52 mins from start to finish. Only about the last 32 mins were excruciatingly painful. Pitocin with no epidural!
5. Well I went to 10 cm with hardly a contraction I could feel. Then when I they said I could push I had no huge to push. So they broke my water and then I had about 10 hours of really painful contracts (because he wouldn't turn his head) before having a c-section because the dr's wouldn't consider anything else.
6. 32 hours of active strong painful labor. Again before having a c-section.
7. Seemed like almost 60 days of labor. I was having pre-labor and labor symptoms that I had never experienced before. Never actually went into labor (I always go late and the dr wouldn't let me go too late) So had another c-section.

How did you know you were in labor?

1. I had felt like I was in labor for so long. I guess when I made my husband get up at 6 am and call the midwife because I wasn't letting him sleep anymore while I stared at him because I was in too much pain to sleep or be comfortable.
2. I woke up at 8 am with contractions that wouldn't let me sleep and figured I was in labor.
3. I woke up at 6am and knew I was in labor.
4. When after 15 mins. of pitocin I couldn't even speak thru a contraction.
5. After I got to 10 cms. and they broke my water.
6. I thought my water had broken early in the morning but by the time the midwife got to come and check they really couldn't detect anything. Figured it was a tear way high. Had been having contractions on and off all day but they completely stopped when the midwifes came and promply started again when they left. Around 4 am in the morning when everyone was asleep and I couldn't even ready e-mail or read blogs.
7. When after having a spinal in the OR and the dr came in and said they were starting the c-section.

Where did you deliver?
Well the first 3 were all born at home. The first one in Texas the other two in Ohio (the only two born outside Texas) each in a different home. Number 4 & 5 were born in the same hospital. Number 6 & 7 were also born in a hospital but each a different one.

Drugs? If you are talking about drugs for pain, none not even when I had pitocin. That was so much more painful than the 25 hour labor.

C-section? 3 One because the child refused to turn his head (which would result in his immediate delivery) and the dr was afraid of how big he would be (I birthed a 10lb 4 oz baby at home with no drugs but the dr. would have none of it), The next one because my water had been broken for 24 hrs and we didn't know why she wasn't turning the midwifes took me in the hospital and the dr there wouldn't consider anything other than a c-section because I had one previously and told me up front if he was my dr. he never would have let me go into labor on my own. The third one we saw a dr thru out my pregnancy and she was all for me having a VBAC if I would go into labor before 1 week overdue (did I mention I almost always go over 3 weeks late). Didn't happen so ended up with a c-section.

Who delivered? The first three were delivered by a midwife (3 different midwifes) The next 3 we saw a midwife for all prenatal care but in the end a dr ended up delivering them. Number 7 was by a dr as we saw her the whole pregnancy.

Baby's Weight & Length
1. 8lbs 6 ozs., 21 1/2 inches
2. 10 lbs 4 ozs., 21 1/2 inches
3. 9 lbs 15 1/2 ozs., 22 inches
4. 8 lbs 14 ozs., 21 1/2 inches
5. 10 lbs 2 1/2 ozs., 21 3/4 inches
6. 9 lbs., 21 1/2 inches
7. 8 lbs 11 ozs., 20 1/4 inches

Summer Fun Photo Contest

2008-08-12T20:07:00.002-05:00

Hubby and kids taking a break from swimming, eating ice cream sandwitches on a hot summer Texas day.

Tutu Bows from Sparkle & Charm Boutique

2008-08-10T15:27:00.002-05:00

Aren't these just the most adorable bows. They are from Sparkle & Charm Boutique She made these darling bows for my girls. The pink one has pink crystals and the purple one has silver stars. They are so much better in person and on my girls head. If you are looking for some tutu's, bow and other things, follow the link on Sparkle & Charm and look around her online store. Her prices are reasonable and her stuff is wonderful. I can't say enough about the tutu bows as they are wonderful! Katie just loves her.

Back to School Contest

2008-08-08T10:28:00.001-05:00

5 Minutes for Mom is having a back to school contest. There are so many neat prizes. To participate click on the banner below and follow the direction.

We Have Winners

2008-08-02T03:59:00.003-05:00

Well I would like to thank everyone for all the wonderful comments that were made about my bows. Be on the look out for a post announcing the opening of my store. I wish I could give you each bows for the girls in your life but that is not possible so I decided to go ahead and draw 4 winners. The first three I will make bows for and the 4 winner I will be making clippies for. I have sent an e-mail to the winners. If I don't here from them in the next 3 days or so I will draw again. So the winner are as follows:

1. Susie G. who said

I wish you luck with your shop. You have some really pretty bows and I bet they'll sell well.

2. Wehaf who said

I would love some for my niece. Thank you

.
3. tiffannhm who said

Thank you for hosting this giveaway

4. Ginny who said

My daughters use those clippies the most. I think another cute thing is bows in sets for pig tails.

Bow Giveaway!

2008-07-28T04:40:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone from Bloggy Carnval. I am working on starting my own online store... Bella Joy Boutique, but it isn't up and running yet. I will work with the winner to come up with a few ideas of what would work for there daughter. I will accept entries until Sat. morning at midnight. Some examples of what I have done are as follows, Good Luck!

Mamanista's Cyber Shower

2008-07-17T12:42:00.003-05:00

Well Mamanista is having a cyber shower. The last day to participate is today. So if you want to play and have a chance to win a prize head over there right away.

Okay now for some party games.

The first game is The Ispirations Labor, birthing, pregnancy story. Well my birth stories are located here

The second game is The most fabulous nest. Here is a picture of Katie in her crib that is the closest picture I have.

The final game is for the best, worse, or funniest Advice for expectant mothers.
Well the best advice I can come up with is to keep yourself busy during those last few weeks. Now I don't mean to work yourself to exahastion, but if you keep busy you are too busy to wonder when that little baby is going to make an appearance.

The prizes that I would like to win are as follows:
1. Chesapeake Ribbons $25 gift certificate
2. Sugar Free Baby 5 of their organic cotton tank onesies
3. The Diaper Clutch one free diaper clutch
4. Jus Shar Designs crocheted baby afghan
5. My Princess Closet $25.00 gift card
6. Amanda from www.mommymandy.com sets of Mini Clips from her online boutique store Simply Sweet Bowtique
7. Signing Time! Baby Signing Time! Gift Set
8. Vanessa Younts $15.00 gift certificate to My Mommy’s Bracelets or Baby Girl Bracelets

Princess Things

2008-06-19T01:09:00.003-05:00

Head over to my other blog Princess Things to see some of the new bows I have made and received. Leave me a comment and tell me what you think. Also I am working on opening up my own web store to sell my bows and some other things. I have the domain name and the web host now just have to design the web page (a new new thing to me). Stay turned for updates.

Me? Quirky?

2008-05-20T11:55:00.003-05:00

Kim at In a Shoe has tagged me for the 6 Quirky Things meme. It’s been a while since I did a meme, so here goes. The rules:

* Link the person who tagged you.
* Mention the rules in your blog.
* Tell about six unspectacular quirks of yours.
* Tag a new set of six following bloggers by linking them:

I will tag the following people:
1. Audrey at So this is Heaven on Earth
2. Kilikina at Live Each Moment
3. Victoria at Just call my Mommy
4. Shannon at 4 Wild Boys
5. Donna at Blessings of Love
6. JD at Tripping Over Cobblestone

Now for 6 quirky things about me...

1. I butter my tortilla chips from restaurants
2. If I know the song I will sing along. On a movie, tv, radio, where ever
3. I like filing taxes (doesn't matter whos just the act of doing it), balancing the checkbook. Fun Fun Fun!
4. I enjoy playing on my sons Nintendo DS
5. I like the clothes from the 50's you know the full skirts and dresses with full skirts (you know like Donna Reed wore on her show)
6. When are vehicles are having a problem I can tell you what the problem is not. My husband will say "I think that the alternator is going out" and I will tell him no it's not the alternator. I don't know what it is but it's not the alternator. I am usually right but it drives hubby crazy.

Okay that's it. If you want to play along and I didn't tag you go ahead and leave a link to your post in comments so I can come read it.

Celebrate Scrapbook Month Party

2008-05-12T21:56:00.000-05:00

Well Scrapping Servant is hosting a party over at her blog. So go here to check it out.

So I was instructed to write a welcoming post. So hello everybody. I am a stay at home mom to 7 children. Yes, you heard right 7 children. We have 5 boys whom were all born first and then when I had figured that we would only have boys God graced us with two girls. Everyday is an adventure and I am enjoying every moment of it.

So go back and sign up and check out everyone's party post and get to know some other people out there in cyber space.

$100 Scrapbook Giveaway

2008-05-12T21:43:00.002-05:00

Growing in Grace is having a scrapbook giveaway. To learn more about it and enter go here. But hurry the contest ends May 16.

Three P's in a Pod: ~PARTY~!!! Day 1

2008-05-12T20:34:00.000-05:00

Three P's in a Pod: ~*P*A*R*T*Y*~!!! Day 1

3 Peas in a Pod Super Summer Vacation Giveaway

2008-05-12T20:18:00.002-05:00

Okay, I am a little late on this one but if you go to here you will find all the contest to enter.

For this summer I don't have alot planned we never really do. We will be going to a family reunion in June and celebrating Arabella's 1st birthday in July and Marshall's 5th birthday in Aug. Other than that I don't really have alot of plans. We will try to get some swimming in along the way and maybe a few other things too.

The four prizes that are my favorite that I would love to win are as follows:
1. Mary Kay Satin Hands
2. Chesapeake Ribbons: A Meggan Gift Set with a $15 Gift certificate
3. Be Jeweled Designs: A Photographer's Tutu in Bubbble Gum Pink
4. Daisy Layne Boutique: Win a $15 gift certificate

Motherhood

2008-05-02T00:36:00.002-05:00

This is the other photo that represents "motherhood" to me. I am surrounded by all my children some are upset, some happy, some ready to be done, some distracted and some paying attention to things elsewhere. Everyday we see our children in differents moods, with different personalities. Yes, I like the pictures that come out with everyone looking forward at the camera, smilings, but I also like the photos that are less than perfect as they show my children in there true forms, less than perfect. We are all less than perfect and pictures that turn out so with funny faces, and wrong facing show a childs personality and can make for a more endearing photo.

Motherhood

2008-05-02T00:29:00.003-05:00

As part of a contest, we were asked to show a picture that represents "Motherhood" to you well I think this does. She was so happy and excited from an Easter day that included church, an egg hunt but here on the blanket outside was so excited from some candy and a water gun, stuffed Peep and some cheap little braclets. This is a happy time in my time as a mother and I think it shows motherhood to me.

Mother's Day Giveaway

2008-05-02T00:02:00.003-05:00

5 Mins for Mom is having another giveaway. This time it is a mothers day giveaway. So to enter head over here for all the detail.

Munchkin Giveaway

2008-05-01T16:14:00.002-05:00

If you like Munchkin products and would like to win a basketful of them, then head over to New Mommy Rant and enter her contest. Contest ends May 15.

My favorite product of there is the Teething Babies. They are stuffed animals a little smaller than a beanie baby. There hands and feet are teething toys. The stuffed animal makes it and easy thing for a baby to hold and yet provides them a teething toy also. It also provides a soft friend for your baby. My babies loves these.

Cyber Shower Party Post

2008-04-29T18:44:00.002-05:00

There is a Cyber Shower going on at Gunning It . SO if you would like to participate head over there to find out. There are some great prizes to be won.
But there are also games and here are my entries.

Game 1- I would say the number of jelly beans is 97.

Game 2 - Best Baby Bump well at least it was the latest one (Arabella can you believe she's 9 month) Anyway to see it go here.

Game 3 - There are 54 diapers.

Game 4 - Again go here to read about review of all 7 births.

My top 5 prize choices are as follows:

1. Chesapeak Ribbon $25 gift certificate
2. Hanes $50 gift certificate
3. My Pink Zebra Boutique $10 gift certificate
4. Polka Dot Bumblebee - custom Photo cards
5. Classy Mommy - My Baby Can Talk DVD

Revolution Money Exchange

2008-04-15T23:52:00.002-05:00

See my new button to the left and here in this post. Revolution Money Exchange is a new place simular to Pay Pal except with out the fees. They are giving away $25 when you sign up. I have already received my $25 and used part of it. If you want to join click on the link and sign up. You'll also help me because I'll get $10 for refering you.

HUGE GIVEAWAY-PALOOZA!!!

2008-04-15T01:42:00.002-05:00

My real life friend over at Ship Full O’ Pirates is having a giveaway. She is giving away the book Passionate Housewives Desperate for God. To enter go here to learn how. Also find out about what is coming in May.

Adhesive Gift Wrap

2008-04-09T19:19:00.002-05:00

Have you heard about Adhesive Gift Wrap from Hallmark. To learn more about it check out what Hallmark has to say here . It works like a post it note. Same kind of adhesive. Laura Williams Musing is giving away 8 rolls. For a chance to win go here.

2 Weeks Of Toys!

2008-04-09T18:51:00.002-05:00

5 Mins for Moms is having a contest. A two weeks of toys contest. To find out how to participate go here. Sounds like lots of fun and if you win a way to stockpile birthday/Christmas gifts.

Check this out!

2008-03-31T16:18:00.001-05:00

My real life friend has entered the blogging world. Go check out her first post and welcome her. Here's the link.

Easter Photos

2008-03-24T11:24:00.005-05:00

Here are my two girls all dressed up in the Easter dresses and bows made by mommy.
Then me and girls and one of all of the kids and myself.

Blogging by Mail: Little Things Mean a Lot

2008-03-19T19:24:00.004-05:00

Well I got my Blogging By Mail Package today. It was from Chrispy over at Pursuit of Fiber . It was a wonderful package. We also both enjoy crafts so she included some of those kinds of things also.
This is what she included:
1. Vanillin - this is flavored vanilla sugar from Germany (2 pkgs)
2. A small notebook
3. some saffron powder
4. measuring spoons - dash, pinch, etc.
5. small strainer
6. cupcake magnet - to make my girls smile (I smiled too love cupcakes)
7. Lindt Chocolate from Saudi
8. Pectin for low sugar jams
9. The food loop to tie up food while cooking
10. Two small natural soaps
11. A sampling for her favorite teas
12. Litchi Gummies from an Asian grocery
13. Homemade poultry spice rub
14. ribbons to create pretties for my girls
15. a knitting pattern and 3 things of yarn.
I was so excited to get this package there is such unique things contained in it. Can't wait to try these things out.
Thanks so much Chrispy!

Mega Launch Party

2008-03-19T14:56:00.002-05:00

Click on the above button to go to Mommies United. They are having a launch party.
The faces of Mommies United are Christine whos blog is From Dates to Diapers, Kristin whos blog is An Ordinary Life, Amandawhos blog is Amanda, and Shanda whos blog is Parents with Style. I have read Christine's blog From Dates to Diapers for sometime now but the other 3 bloggers are comepletely new to me. I look foward to getting to know them.

The 4 prizes I am most interested in are the following:

1. Fuzzy Me - birthday tutu
2. Chesapeake Ribbons - $25 gift certificate - I love her hair things
3. Baby & Me Boutique - $100 gift certificate
4. Baby Star - star swaddler blanket

So check out this party. Maybe you will meet some bloggy friends. I have met several different bloggy friends thru different ways and I am very glad I did.

March 12, 1994

2008-03-13T05:25:00.004-05:00

It was 14 years ago on the above day that my hubby and I were married. It seems like such a short time 14 years yet so long in other. We have been thru alot in those 14 years. From newlyweds that both work different shifts me as a Police Dispatcher from 2pm - 10pm and he a security guard from 11pm - 7am. We have lived in 7 places during that time and two states. It also means that our oldest son is 13 years old. Our lives have been an adventure with good times and bad. But we are still together all these years later. We dated and were engaged for 2 years before we were married so we have been together for a total of 16 years, married 14. My hubby is strong, smart man who works hard for his family and I love him for it. He is good husband and wonderful dad. You enjoys spending time with his children.
Happy Anniversary Darling! I love you!

New Button

2008-03-12T00:06:00.002-05:00

I did it! I designed a button for my other web site where I show off all the things I make for my girls. You know like bows!

It's it pretty. Tell me what you think.

My Ultimate Blog Party Post

2008-03-11T05:53:00.003-05:00

Well hello there. If you are reading this you probably came over from 5 mins for mom.
Well let me introduce myself. I am Michelle and I am a stay at home mom of 7 children. We had 5 boys first and when I thought we would never have a girl and had given everything girly away, we found out a month before I was due that we were expecting a girl. We were completely shocked. We now have 2 girls and they are a joy as are my boys. Hubby and I have been married for 14 years as of March 12. On this blog I will post about all kinds of different things but they mostly stem around "Our Full House". As our house truly is full and we love it. So come and look around and stay for awhile if you like. We hope you come back later when the party is over. SO enjoy!

There are so many cool prizes to be won at this year’s Ultimate Blog Party, but my top three picks would be:

15 — $50 gift certificate to Kids Magical Wonder
76 — $25 Gift Certificate for Lily Cait
50 — 12 Basic Boutique Bows by MommyMandy.com

And if my top three picks are already chosen, I’d love any of the following (in order of preference):
56, 11, 60, 74, 77, 99, 122, 117, 140, 39, 34, 30, 12, 7, 59, 55, 130, 112, 49, 26, 22, 17, 1, 6, 3, 16, 85, 24, 45 or whatever else in any order especially things related to moms since I have 7 children.

The Ultimate Blog Party

2008-03-11T05:51:00.001-05:00

This week Five Mins for Mom is hosting the 2008 Blog Party be sure to check it out. Just click on the button above. Hope to see you there.

Produce Terminal

2008-03-11T05:25:00.002-05:00

If you are readers of Kim's at Life In A Shoe you heard about her trip to the Produce Terminal. But if not well my real life friend Kim and another friend made a trip the produce terminal in town a couple of weeks ago. After that trip they invited me and other friends at church and some family and outside friends to participate. A spreadsheet was made and Kim and Jenny braved the produce terminal this time armed with a list of things for 11 people in total. We met them to sort out the produce and pick up our order. For around $35 dollars or so I came home with the following:

10 lbs Jonagold Apples (they were so sweet and yummy and large)
6 avocados
10 lbs of Bananas (I am not a banana person but these were the best bananas I have ever eatten. If I had always eaten these I would be a banana person they were so sweet)
7 lbs of brocolli florets
4 cantalope
5 large cuccumbers
5 lbs nectarines
5 lbs strawberries
2 very large zucchini (did I say very large because they were huge)

I picked this up Friday afternoon and as soon as I got home left and the kids so only one banana a piece were eaten. Well by Sunday we had no bananas, no apples, no nectarines and no cantalopes left. We had only 1 gallon size ziplock of brocolli left. My oldest son ate a gallon and a 1/2 of brocolli in less than 24 hrs. I found these special steam bags at the store just toss in your food, seal it and cook in microwave. Perfectly steamed vegetable (or whatever you put in there) comes out.
We will definetly be ordering more in the weeks to come. Thanks so very much Kim and Jenny for all the work that goes into this and for offering to do it in the first place. We over hear are very greatful.

Valentines Day Swap Received

2008-03-11T01:58:00.003-05:00

Okay I know this is late in comeing. I received my Valentines Swap from Victoria at Just Call Me... . She sent me a wonderful Valentines package containing 1 bag of Hershey's Kisses with Caramel, 5 Whatchamacallits and a $5 Starbucks gift card. Yummy. Thanks Victoria it was wonderful!

Middle Name Game

2008-02-20T04:05:00.002-06:00

Okay this is from Amy over at Roses at My Table

*Every answer must begin with 1st letter of your middle name ;)

1. Middle name: Kay
2. Famous artist/band/musician: Kenny G.
3. 4-letter word: keep
4. U.S state: Kansas
5. Boy name: Kent
6. Girl name: Katie
7. Animal: Kitty
8. Something in the kitchen: Kitchen Aid
9. Reason for being late:
10. Body Part: Knee
11. Drink: Kool- Aid
12. Something you shout: Katie!
13. Something you eat: Kiwi

Just for Fun!

2008-02-18T06:12:00.003-06:00

A Contest for a Brody Bracelet!

2008-02-15T13:57:00.002-06:00

Well Two Moms in a Blog is moving soon and changing there name. They are going to be Chrysanthemoms . So they are having a contest. Brody Girl is there sponsor for this contest and is giveing Two Moms a gold or silver 12 lanquage bracelet. To enter go here and find out how to enter.
So now for my entry. You must describe yourself using there new name Chrysanthemoms so here I go.

C - Caring
H - Helpful
R - Reliable
Y - Youthful
S - Sweet
A - Actively raising children
N - Nice
T - Trustworthy
H - Honest
E - Efficient
M - Mommy
O - Office needing
M - Marvelously creative
S - Sincere

New Blog

2008-02-15T03:05:00.003-06:00

Okay, I have started a new blog. No I am not leaving here this is still my main blog. The other one is going to be where I post different projects that I am working on or have completed for the girls. I want to start sewing some dresses for the girls and making my own hair bows rather than buying them (or just wishing for them because I can't justify the cost). Yes I know I have 5 boys too, but I have tried to make boy clothes and was no good at it. (I have a boys outfit I was making for Brandon when he was 6 months old maybe older it still sits in my sewing stuff taunting me everytime I see it. ) I have sewn dresses and such for myself even bridesmaid dresses and have never had that kind of trouble. So girls things I know how to sew (I do have material and patterns to make pj's for the boys some time). And for the bows well boys don't wear hair accessories.
So come on over to Princess Things and check things out and let me know what you think.
Oh I am also using it to try and figure out html. I am tweaking the template and changing colors and trying to figure out where things are located in the template. So any advice or helpfulness there would be appreciated there too. Thanks.
Oh and if for nothing else you can check out the cute pictures of my girls that I took myself.

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T16:33:00.004-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day to all of you out there! I hope you are having a nice one. Last week I thought that my hubby and I would be able to celebrate Valentine's Day on Valentine's day, but that was not to happen. Why break with tradition now! Anyway we went to dinner on Sat. with the girls. We went somewhere new for us. Outback steakhouse. Yes, I know it has been around a while, but we are kind of in a rut when it comes to where we go for Valentine's. It is usually Red Lobster or Don Pedros (a local mexican food place). Which ever we don't go to for Valentine's we go to on our anniversary in March. So it was nice to go somewhere different. I gave hubby his present on Sat. Got mine yesterday. Doesn't hubby look good in his Valentine's Present! Yes, the whole outfit. Also a couple more ties, and hugs and kisses (both regular and chocolate)
Here are some assorted Valentine pictures of the girls too.

My Latest Creation

2008-02-12T18:42:00.000-06:00

Okay as you know if you have ever been to my blog before, I have 5 boys and 2 girls. The boys came to use one after another all in a row. In fact, I had given up any hope of ever even having a girl when we found out we were having a girl. Since I was so sure that the baby I was carring was a boy we didn't even think of a girls name. So Katie was born and we entered this new world of pinks and purples, flowers and hearts, and dresses and things for the hair. Now Katie wore a few of those baby head bands when she was little, but she had very little hair so no bows. Now then came Arabella and she has more hair than her sister and she wears the baby head band and some bows. Katie now must have something in her hair to keep the hair out of her face so we have all kinds of bows and hair things. Now I have bought a few bows at Walmart. I have won some bows from a blog contest and have ordered some with a discount online. But I want to start making bows. I have found a few instructions and can't wait to begin. But first we needed to find a better place for the hair things. I had them in this little drawer thing but they were getting messed up...so they have just all been in a Target bag. Well I made this last night to hang all there bows and clippies on with a few head bands and I found a little hair carrier thing that the rest is in. Much better organized. So what do you guys thing of my bow holder? I am pretty proud of it.

Bow Contest

2008-02-04T16:54:00.000-06:00

Audrey over at So, This is Heaven on Earth is having a giveaway. All you have to do is head over there and than follow the link to her store, choose a 3 pack of bows (yes a 3 pack), leave a comment on saying which one you would like to win. Drawing is on Wed. Feb 6. So head over there and take a look. Her bows are adorable as well as the other products on her website.

Happy Birthday, Steven!

2008-01-25T09:07:00.000-06:00

Well I am a day late, as his birthday was yesterday, but I offically have a teenager. Yes folks, my oldest child turned 13 yesterday. Is it possible for him to be that old already? I guess so since he is. He is so excited about this age. He believes that it changes everything, but him in a whole different class, he is no longer a child, (just ask him he'll tell you). He is quite the young man I must say. He is a big help with his siblings. I have enjoyed his first 13 years of life and look forward to what this year will bring and what challenges lies around the corner now that we are raising a "teenager".

Well Happy Birthday my dear son. I love you very much.

New Blog Design

2008-01-16T20:55:00.001-06:00

Well after a long wait my new blog design is finally here and isn't it just BEAUTIFUL! Thanks so much to Susie at BlueBird Blogs . I am so excited about my new look. Didn't Susie do a wonderful job!

Valentines Day Swap

2008-01-15T00:01:00.000-06:00

There is a Valentine's Day Swap going on over at An Island Life it looks like so much and I am going to participate. Here is the answers to the survey she posted in connection with the swap.

1. What is your idea of a romantic Valentine’s Day?
Spending Valentine's Day with my husband, going to dinner somewhere special just the two of us. Just spending some time together.

2. In reality, what is your Valentine’s Day really like?
Well for the most part, unless Valentine's day is on a weekend or hubby has the day off...Valentine's day is just a regular day. I always get the kiddo's a small stuffed animal and some candy and will give them to them on Valentine's day and will usually give hubby his gift (whatever it may be). I usually give him Hugs & Kisses (you know the chocolate ones). Then on the weekend we will go out to dinner if possible just the two of us and we almost alway go to one of two restaurants (yes we are in a rut but I don't know where else to go that would be a nice dining place where I would like the food) either Don Pedros (a mexican restaurant in town) or Red Lobster. (we then usually go to the other one for our anniversary the next month)

3. If you could have a lifetime supply of your favorite sweet indulgence, what would it be?
Lets see that would be Whatchamacallit's, Butterfingers, and dark chocolate, & chocolate covered cherries.

4. Is there any sweet treat you absolutely do not like?
chocolate with nuts, most white chocolates, and anything with Raspberries other than that I love all Valentines candy

5. If you fell into a pool of chocolate, how would you get out?
Well I would definately have to eat my way out.

The Winner Is....

2007-12-19T03:50:00.000-06:00

The winner of the just like mama baby carrier is JD at Tripping over Cobblestone.

Please contact me with your info so I can send it to the people at Vision Forum.

Thank you Vision Forum for this wonderful contest.

Vision Forum Giveaway

2007-12-14T20:51:00.000-06:00

Okay Vision Forum is allowing me to giveaway a doll carrier.
The Vision Forum Website says this about the doll:

As a complement to our new baby doll, we are delighted to offer the ‘Just Like Mama’ Baby Doll Carrier. Made of soft, cozy material and with adjustable straps,your daughter will love this pretty, lightweight version of your own carrier. Machine-washable. Fits all 15" dolls.

So if you would like to win one of these just leave a comment here by Tue. Dec 18.
I will choose a winner on Dec. 19

Praise Baby

2007-12-12T21:49:00.000-06:00

This seems to be an interesting thing. Check it out.

Have you been elf'd?

2007-12-11T03:03:00.000-06:00

Okay here is the elf video I made at http://www.elfyourself.com Try it yourself it's fun.

The Last Challenge part 2

2007-12-05T11:27:00.000-06:00

Well it's not too late if you want to enter the contest to win a Kodak EasyShare All-In-One Printer.
If you want a chance to win go over to Two Mom's in a Blog and find out how to enter, but you better hurry final deadline is Dec. 10.

Challenge # 13

2007-12-05T11:19:00.001-06:00

Challenge # 13 is up here
Here we are to take a “frame it” photo. So here is mine. I framed Andrew in the open part of the storm door.

Challenge # 12

2007-12-05T10:59:00.001-06:00

Okay this challenge (it is to get a ticket to win a printer over at Two Mom's in A Blog)is to display a funny moment. So here is mine. The day my husband and children came to bring the new baby home (and me) they were given a sticker that said visitor with my room number on it. Well this is how Marshall decided it needed to be worn.

Free Shipping @ Vision Forum

2007-11-28T20:53:00.000-06:00

Doug Phillips and Vision Forum are sponsoring a giveaway at inashoe.com to help get word out about the FREE SHIPPING Vision Forum is offering until Midnight tonight

Help spread the word on your website or blog then leave a comment at Life in a Shoe by 10pm today to enter!

Challenge # 8

2007-11-19T14:29:00.000-06:00

Every mom know how many wonderful creations our children make and of course there is no way we can save each and everyone. So how about taking a photo of each creation our child makes and then putting them together in an album. You will always have the creations and it will be in one album rather than all over the house. The contest is to post a photo of one of your childs creations. Well I do think that it was refering to a drawn creation. I have a small slide show of a Lego story creation my oldest is doing. So click on the link and go see it.

Steven's Creation

Challenge # 6

2007-11-18T02:36:00.001-06:00

This challenge is to post a photo of one of your happiest moments. So here is one of mine... This was the day my youngest daughter Arabella and I came home from the hospital. I was letting her big sister Katie get to know her baby sister. This is one of my happiest moments because I can see how much Katie loves and adores her sister and is not jealous of her and how she thinks of her as HER BABY. It makes me so very happy to know that she loves Arabella so much and she just met her.

Challenge #7

2007-11-18T02:28:00.000-06:00

This challenge is to find a unique way to spell out your name. I couldn't decide which one so my second son Brandon helped me spell out my name in Legos and bottlecaps. SO here it is.

Nov. Cyber Shower Party Post

2007-11-10T20:18:00.000-06:00

Classy Mommy is having a Cyber Shower for detail go here. To see a list of prizes go here.

Now on to the party games.

Now first they ask for a list of my top 4 prizes. They are:
1. #5 Chesapeake Ribbons - $15 gift code
2. #45 My Mommy’s Bracelets or Baby Girl Bracelets. - $10 gift certificate
3. #17 Ju Ju Beane Boutique - $25 gift code
4. #13 Hanes - deluxe basket

Game #1 - Length of Labor and deliver of 1st child
Well with my first child I was in labor for just shy of 14 hours including delivery.

Games #2 - Baby Bump Picture
Go here

Game # 3 - Don't have a nursery photo.

Game # 4 - Biggest Baby Stats
Well my babies were the following
Boy #1: 8lbs 6ozs 21 1/2 inches
Boy #2: 10lbs 4ozs 21 1/2 inches
Boy #3: 9lbs 15 1/2 ozs 22 inches
Boy #4: 9lbs 14.1 ozs 21 1/2 inches
Boy #5: 10 lbs 2 1/2 ozs 21 3/4 inches
Girl #1: 9 lbs 21 1/2 inches
Girl #2: 8 lbs 11 ozs 20 1/4 inches

So my BIGGEST Baby was Brandon (baby #2) at 10lbs 4 ozs and 21 1/2 inches

Sugar & Spice Bow Party

2007-11-09T13:23:00.000-06:00

Sugar and Spice

Bows and Accessories

Please join us on-line, for a Sugar and Spice Bow Party

Sugar and Spice Hair Bows offers a wide selection of adorable hair accessories,

with fun designs for your little cutie.

What is an on-line party?

On-line parties are fun and easy. Simply sit back, and relax from the comfort of your own home and shop for adorable hair accessories.

When?

Please visit http://www.sugarandspicebows.com/ between November 9-15, 2007.

All purchases made during this time period will receive a 10% discount when you enter

the hostess code Bow11 in the voucher section at the check out.

**Please feel free to forward this invitation to any family, friends, co-workers, or neighbors.

Are you interested in hosting an on-line party to earn free hair accessories? Visit http://www.sugarandspicebows.com/ to learn more, or e-mail us at sugarandspicebows@hotmail.com

Eight Things Meme

2007-11-09T12:52:00.000-06:00

Mama Archer tag me for this.
Here are the rules: once tagged, you must link to the person who tagged you. Then post the rules before your list, and list eight random things about yourself. At the end of the post, you must tag and link to eight other people.

1. I collect Gone With the Wind things
2. I love crafts: crochet, scrapbooking, cross stitch, etc. I have many that I do an enjoy learning more.
3. I love taking pictures and have taken picture for several weddings
4. I wanted to be an Obstetrition when I was in high school and attended Health Careers high school
5. Would love to be a midwife someday
6. I love different colored pens and collect them.
7. I had to have my feet broken and cast once a week for 8 weeks when I was 4-6 months old and then had to wear special shoes that were connected to a bar so I couldn't move my feet
8. I married the first and only person I ever dated. We were highschool sweethearts and married when I was 18 (a month from 19) years old and he was 2 weeks away from being 20.

Now to tag eight people...let's see... okay here. It's your turn.

1. Audrey @ So, This is Heaven on Earth
2. Kilikina @ Live Each Moment
3. Kim @ In A Shoe
4. Stephanie @ The Greenhouse
5. Amy @ Roses on My Table
6. TracyHoMemaKer @ bright foglights

Well there's six and I can't think of any more people.

Christmas Giveaway at Five mins for Mom

2007-11-08T21:16:00.000-06:00

Head over there and find out how to enter the various contests. They will be posting different giveaways from now until Nov. 24 and all contest end on Nov. 25 at 10pm EST. Winners will be announced on Nov. 26.

Sewing the Seams of Love

2007-11-08T21:01:00.000-06:00

If you look in my sidebar you see the button. If you are in the market for a bib. She makes wonderful ones that are great. You should go check them out.

Also she makes these wonderful blessing dolls.

I have bought two, one for each daughter for Christmas. They are so sweet and all cloth made. Wonderful dolls.
She also makes clothing for girls but is not doing that at the present moment. But they too are wonderful.
So click on the button to the right and check out her site. If you buy something tell her I sent you.

November Giveaway Challenge #3

2007-11-05T12:17:00.000-06:00

This challenge is to post a photo and tell why it inspires you. Well here is why these photos inspire me.
It inspires me to be:
A better wife, helpmate, friend, companion, cook, a better mother, teacher, confidant, to be better than I am, to show me why I use always strife to correct my faults, admit my faults, to be more giving, to be a better example, just to be a better person. It inspires me to teach my boys to be strong Godly boys who will grow up to be Godly men, husbands, and fathers, to teach my daughters to grow up to be Godly woman, wives and mothers and helpmates. They inspire me to laugh, enjoy life and take joy in the small things in life, to enjoy there happiness even if it is a yucky bug that they are collecting, just to enjoy every year, month, day, hour, minute and second that I am with them. God has giving me my husband and my children and need to be grateful for them and strive to be the best I can for them. God has blessed me richly. This is why this is such an inspiring photo.

Fun Meme

2007-11-03T01:36:00.000-05:00

I saw this meme on another blog and thought I would do it here. Anyone want to take this meme to? If you do either post it on a post on your blog and leave a link here in the comments section so I can see too or just post it in the comment section. Let have some fun.

MY ROCK STAR NAME (first pet and current car):
Snow Suburban

MY WANNABE NAME (favorite ice cream flavor and favorite cookie):
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Thin Mint

MY "FLY GIRL" NAME (first initial of first name and first three letters of last name):
M-Bil

MY DETECTIVE NAME (favorite color and favorite animal):
Pink Rabbit

MY SOAP OPERA NAME (middle name and the city where you were born):
Kay Richardson

MY STAR WARS NAME (first 3 letters of your last name and first 2 letters of your first name):
BilMi

MY SUPERHERO NAME ("The" and second favorite color and favorite drink):
The Purple Dr. Pepper

MY ENTERTAINER -cough,cough- NAME (name of your favorite perfume/cologne and favorite candy):
White Diamonds Mint Three Muskateers

MY WITNESS PROTECTION NAME (mother's and father's middle names):
Elizabeth Wayne

Tag Security Blankies Giveaway

2007-11-02T03:47:00.000-05:00

Amanda says this:
Here are my first Tag Security Blankies. I can make them in minky or chenille (one side) then other side is in a coordinating flannel. These Tag Blankies are handmade. The measure approx. 17" by 13".
Blue minky with stars and yellow minky with pink polka dots are shown below. I also have white and green chenille.

Here is the chenille I have. white, blue pink and green

If you would like to win one of these Tag Security Blankets, please post on your blog about this giveaway, linking back to THIS post, and to my website Simply Sweet Bowtique ,then come back here, leave your name and a valid email address, and the link to your post in the comment section. If you don't have a blog, then please tell me how you'll spread the word.
This giveaway will close on November 10th
(you can just C&P what is written above, and add a picture)
If you would like to purchase one, please contact me at patmandy[at]yahoo[dot]com

Please be advised that if you follow the links they take you to httP:??mommymanudy.blogspot.com . She is hosting the contest.

New Vision Forum Contest

2007-10-29T14:19:00.000-05:00

Kim over at In a Shoe is having another drawing for Vision Forum Products from the new 2007-2008 catalog. To see how to enter go here. Also check out Vision Forum. Now here is a dream list of Vision Forum Products I'd like totaling $250 or less.

1. What to Expect from a Twelve-Year-Old -pg. 26 - $10
2. Passionate Housewives: Desperate for God - pg. 6 - $16
3. The Liberty Doll (we have Evangeline for a Christmas present for Katie but in my dream list I would like to have one for Arabella for when she is older) - pg.64 - $89
4. Southern Lady Doll Dress - pg. 70 - $19
5. Elise Dinsmore Book 1 - pg. 79 - $15
6. Maria von Trapp Party Dress - pg. 71 - $19
7. Doll Quilt - pg. 76 - $20
8. Teach them To Your Children - pg. 80 - $17
9. Verses of Virtue - pg. 33 - $20
10. Our Fathers' Fathers - pg. 21 - $10
11. Elsie's Holiday - pg.79 - $15

For a grand Total of $250

Is that a FREE candle I smell?

2007-10-29T04:02:00.000-05:00

Visit here and enter to win a free Home & Garden Party candle. The scent is perfect for the holiday as it is Warm Cinnamon Pumpkin. But hurry contest ends Oct. 29.

November Giveaway Challenge #1

2007-10-29T03:35:00.000-05:00

Two Moms In a Blog are giving away this Kodak EasyShare 5300 All-In-One Printer. To find out about all the contest rules go here. YOu have 14 chances to win and the first challenge ends on Nov. 1. Also they will be giving away a $20 Barnes and Nobel gift certificate for there favorite post. So make it a good one.

I have had my eye on this printer since is came out. I would love to win this printer. As you know I have 7 children and one is only 3 months old. I take lots and lots of pictures. Did I tell you I take lots of pictures. I place them all in photo albums in catagories. There are the family albums which contains pictures of various family members and there are photo albums for each of the children of photos that contain only that particular member of the family. Then I make a scrapbook for each child of there first year (memorable moments). Started doing these with child number 4, Andrew. I also like to use photos for Christmas ornaments, and for family gifts. I had an All in One Printer that I loved. But there is something wrong with the color print head I've replaced it but to no avail. I need to see if I can get it fixed but haven't had a chance. My husband bought me another printer and well it's okay but don't plan any large projects (did I tell you I do a family calendar every year and make copies for each family on my husbands side of the family). I long for a printer that will work well for all that I put it through. Kodak is a good company I have always been pleased with any products I have used of there's. So I do hope that I win this printer.

Vision Forum Drawing

2007-10-24T02:36:00.000-05:00

Kim over at Life in A Shoe is having a drawing for Vision Forum Products from the new 2007-2008 catalog. To see how to enter go here. Also check out Vision Forum. Now here is a dream list of Vision Forum Products I'd like.

1. What to Expect from a Twelve-Year-Old -pg. 26 - $10
2. Passionate Housewives: Desperate for God - pg. 6 - $16
3. The Liberty Doll (we have Evangeline for a Christmas present for Katie but in my dream list I would like to have one for Arabella for when she is older) - pg.64 - $89
4. Southern Lady Doll Dress - pg. 70 - $19
5. Elise Dinsmore Book 1 - pg. 79 - $15

For a grand Total of $149
It was hard to make a list at $150 or less, but it was made easier by only being able to select VF products and then removing what we already had, but it was still a difficult task.

Oopsie Dazie Contest

2007-10-15T13:27:00.000-05:00

Oopsie Dazie is a company that makes these beautiful barretts and headbands for little girls. Head here to see all the beautiful ribbons and thing to customize some cute hair things for your little girl. Then go over to An Island Review and enter there contest to win any two products in the Oopsie Dazie store. So go check it out but hurry contest ends tonight.

Princess Katie turns 2!

2007-10-11T21:35:00.000-05:00

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Yes, you heard me. My darling first daughter has turned two. We have had two whole years of a girl being in this house. She is definately very girly, but a side effect of having 5 older brothers is that you thing you can take them on in anything and can act very much like them at times. (Even when mommy wishes she wouldn't copy them). We have had two years of pinks, purples, flowers, butterflies, baby dolls and all things girly. Now we are getting into doll houses, dress up clothes and tea sets (playones at least). I have learned so much about the differences in boys and girls these last two years. I have learned that girls LOVE clothes in much different ways than boys. We had her party on Sunday and she oo'd and ah'd everything she unwrapped. She loves to wear hats and change her clothes. I can't believe how many clothes we go thru in a day. If she spills something on her clothes (like water) she immediately must take it off and wants new clothes. She tries to dress herself and she ends up with some interesting outfits. We are looking to potty train her. In some ways she seems so ready and in others not so much, but then again the boys were not even close to being ready when they turned two. I will need to by a potty seat for her as the last few boys pretty much taught themselves by following there brothers example. This will be a new experience. Katie is very nurturing, wants to share with her brothers, wants to take care of her sister (although this doesn't always her mommy). She has been quite a joy and so much fun.
Happy birthday my precious Princess Katie! We love you very much.

They Look Like Who?

2007-10-02T23:27:00.000-05:00

After years of people telling me that all of my boys look like my husband, this web site that utilized face recognition software differs some with that opinion. See for yourself and decide. It is funny that it says Andrew looks more like his Daddy, he is also the one that acts most like his Daddy.

Cyber Shower Party Post

2007-10-01T22:10:00.000-05:00

Okay here is my Cyber Shower Party Post for the shower being held at 5 Mins for Mom.

First they ask for a photo of you during or immediately following labor. SO here it I had just given birth to my third son, Nathan after 25 hours of labor including one hour of pushing. Yes that is how I spent new years day 2000.

Now for a baby bump picture... This baby bump is Arabella and was taken the morning we went to the hospital for her delivery.

Now for a baby birth story. Let's see I have 7 of them.
Make a concise overview of the 7 will work.
My 1st baby Steven, I went into labor with him at around 11pm with him. He was over 3 weeks late. I was up most of the night and couldn't sleep due to the pain. At 5:30 I made my husband get up and call the midwife. She agreed to come and arrive at 8am. I labored through out the day at home with my husband, Daddy, soon to be step mom and my mother there and of course the midwifes. When I was dilated enough to push I had to wait about an hour longer due to a lip on my cervix that had gotten swollen. Finally I was able to push and he was born at 3:52 pm. At 8lbs 6 0Zs and 21 1/2 inches long. He is my smallest weight baby.

Baby number two, Brandon. I woke up at 8 am on a Sunday morning in pain. I went and got in the bath tub. My husband wanted to call the midwife but I made him wait for quite awhile to make sure I was actually in labor. He called his aunt to pick up our son when she was done with church. The midwife arrived shortly after. Labor was strong and painful. When it was time for pushing this was the hard part, his shoulders almost got stuck as he had such wide shoulders. It was quite hard pushing out those shoulders. He was born around 5:52 pm. He weighted in at 10 lbs 4 Oz's. and was 21 1/2 inches long. He was a solid boy. We jokingly called him our butterball turkey but also our baby linebacker. He was one week late exactly.

Baby number three, Nathan. I woke up in labor around 6am on New Years day. We called my husbands sister to come get the other two boys and the midwife. She arrived around 9am. I labored throughout the day. We walked around the house, I walked up and down the stairs. My husband even took me for a ride in our car down a road that was quite bumpy do to some road work. Nothing helped to speed up my labor. Finally it was time to push after 24 hours in labor. We tried all kinds of positions...squatting, on my side, leaning back in bed against my husband, than finally on my hands and knees and that is how he was born. He was born at 7:02am and weighed in at 9lbs 15 1/2 inches and 22 inches long. He was my longest baby.

Baby number four, Andrew. In Texas midwifes are required to have there clients have a non-stress test done when a woman is 2 weeks past due. When I was 2 weeks and 6 days past due (which still counts) I went to my midwifes house and we drove together in her car to the hospital to have a non-stress done. Well alot of doctors in the city I live in don't like midwifes. As soon as I got to the hospital we had trouble brewing. The nurse took my blood pressure with a cuff that was too small. They continued to take my blood pressure too frequently, with too small of cuff thereby getting artificially high blood pressures. The doctors claimed I had severe pre-eclampsia and I was admitted to be induced. The doctors also put me on a magnesium drip for the "high blood pressure" even though the blood pressure monitor (which was then a machine and not a person taking the blood pressures) showed my blood pressure to be perfectly normal. Our midwife questioned them giving the magnesium but they insisted it was safe. Once they had me all ready to go so I was unable to leave the hospital the doctors admitted that all of my test where perfect and they had nothing to support there claim of severe pre-eclampsia or pre-eclampsia at all. But they said I was almost 3 weeks late and the chance of losing my baby was 50% simply because he was late. (This can be true but not for me everything was fine with me and my baby and I always deliver late as did my mom). When the pitocin kick in and started working I went from talking to my husband (who was waiting for his dad to take his mom to church later that evening so that he could come and pick him up to get our van from the midwifes house and come to the hospital) I went from talking and no contractions to not being able to talk during the contraction in 10 mins. I am so grateful our midwife was with me as I couldn't have made it through this delivery without her. I had never had an epidural or any pain medication with any of my children as they were all born at home, but pitocin is evil. I finally begged for an epidural. My midwife suggested I have them check me. They did and I was 4cms. The anasialogist was called and came only to tell me he had to go do an emergency c-section and would be back in 15 mins. My contractions quickly started coming one on top of the other and I told my midwife I had to push but how could that be possible. Well be the time the Dr came to do the epidural 15 mins later my son had been born. I upset the Dr doing the delivery because he told me to wait and not push, my body had other ideas and pushed that baby out without me doing much of anything. The Dr was very upset by this as he did not have all of his stuff out and was not ready. He handed the baby to a nurse and walked out in a huff without a word. My son was born in 52 mins from first contraction to delivery. He was 8 lbs 14.1 Oz's and 21 1/2 inches long.

Baby number five, Marshall. I again was being faced with the possibility of a non-stress test. After Andrew we wanted to avoid going to the hospital for this. So my midwife suggested we try some herbal/natural things to try and encourage labor. She said if your body is not ready it won't matter what we do you will not go in labor. SO I left the appointment went and picked up some last min. things, came home and prepared for labor that day. The midwifes arrived at 5pm and we started things. My body was responding wonderfully. I was dilating and was having some contractions although they were so mild I could barely feel them. I made it all the way to 10 cm without hardly any discomfort or pain and we tried pushing. I had no real contractions to speak of and no urge to push this was quite odd and made it difficult to push. Well I was able to move the baby down while pushing but he moved right back when I stoped. The midwifes broke my water and we decided to wait. Now I started feeling contractions. They were very strong. This was around 6am. By 2:30 I had gone down to 8cm and he had locked his head sideways and refused to move. We decided to go to the hospital. One midwife drove in front of us and one behind us. She said if my son would just turn is head he would be born on the side of the road. She told my husband to pull over if I had the urge to push the midwife behind us would pull over to help and would call the midwife in front of us who would circle back. Well he didn't turn his head and we arrived at the hospital. Same hospital as before. The doctors wouldn't even consider doing anything but a c-section even though we asked them to. They gave me an epidural and performed a c-section. He was 10lbs 2.5 Oz's and 21 3/4 inches long.

Baby five, Katie our first daughter. This time I woke up and felt as if my water had broken. We called the midwifes and they said they could come later in the afternoon after they saw patients but if things started to pick up call them again. Well I had contracts all day and the midwifes arrived around 4 pm and guess what my contractions stoped. They were not sure if my water had really broke and told me to keep them updated how things were and call when my contractions were 5 mins apart or when my water broke. They left and guess what my contractions started. We went to my in-laws house that evening and my contractions continued getting stronger. We came home and everyone went to sleep but I was unable to sleep. I got on the computer but by 4:30 I was in so much pain I woke my husband to call the midwife. They came and I was definitely in labor. My daughter had her shoulder in my spine and was in a strange position. I made it to 9cm in the early afternoon and tried to push through it (as my cervix was very stretchy). I threw up, took a nap and felt much better when I woke up. My contractions had all but stoped. I ate something and then started walking around, sitting on a birth ball, etc. Well the midwifes checked me and I was still 9cm. They were hungry and decided they would go eat and took me with them. We went to a Chinese restaurant around the corner and then to a near by Target and walked around. We came back to the house but by this time we were coming up on 24 hrs from when my water broke and since I was no longer in active labor and we did not know why the baby was not turning we went to the hospital. A different hospital from the one above. We were met by a doctor who also would consider nothing but a repeat c-section. HE told me if I was his patient he never would have let me go into labor. My daughter was born at 1:06am and weighed 9 lb and was 21 1/2 inches.

Baby seven, Arabella, our second and recent birth. This time I had no choice to use a Dr. The midwife is not allowed to take clients after a 2ND c-section. We spent several months looking for a doctor who would allow us to try a VB AC. With the help of my midwife we found two and made a choice on one. My doctor was all for a VBAC but didn't want me to go more than a week past my due date. All of my babies but one where born 2 or more weeks late and the one was a week late. Our doctor wanted to break my water but couldn't do it until the baby was completely engaged (something that usually doesn't happen to moms who have had more than one baby). We had appointments every week, then every few days hoping that the baby would engage and she would be able to induce me by breaking my water. She even at one appointment striped my membranes. For just about 6weeks prior to my daughters birth I experienced all sorts of pre labor symptoms that I had never experienced before. Other mom of many, whom I had told of the symptoms, would tell me they thought I would be in labor within a week. But nope no me. Finally after I was 3 days past my due date. The Dr said she really didn't want to wait any longer than a week past my due date. If she couldn't induce me by breaking my water and I didn't go into labor on my own she would want to do a c-section. We decided that based on everything I tried, walking, herbs, etc. that if the end result was a c-section then it was best to do it on a weekend than during that coming week. That way my husband would be off from work and his vacation time would be preserved for the week after the birth and after I was home. We scheduled the birth for the next morning. This was the most unusual birth for me. We drove to the hospital not in labor, checked in, got preped. I was taken to the OR and given a spinal and prepped and draped my husband came in. HE was able to take some pictures and video of the birth and afterwards. When the Dr broke my bag of water she received a gigantic huge fountain of water and remarked there was no way she was ever going to get to break my water without me going into labor, which I obviously was not doing in 4 days. She was born at 10:16 am and weighed 8 lbs 11 Oz's. and was only 20 1/4 inches long.

My top three picks for prizes are as follows:
1. Mom 4 Life - $25 gift certificate
2. Love, September - tutus
3. Allizon.com

They also asked for a favorite boy and girl baby name. Well since I just had a baby I use my daughters name and then the boy name we had selected if our first daughter was a boy. Girl: Arabella Boy: Jerry

I love being pregnant. My most favorite thing about being pregnant is being able to feel the baby moving inside me. To have this connection that no one else can have is just a wonderful feeling. To share something with the baby long before they are born.

SO this is my party post hope you enjoyed yourself.

Happy Birthday, Brandon

2007-09-24T21:24:00.001-05:00

Well this post is a bit late. Brandon's birthday was Sept. 14. He and I went to lunch together just the two of us and baby Arabella. We had lunch at Red Robin. I signed up the kids in there birthday club and the birthday club at Cold Stone Creamery so he got his lunch and dessert for free. It was a treat for him. He enjoyed having some one on one time with me. We had a good afternoon. That evening we went to a wedding. He had a birthday party with Marshall a few weeks ago. He is now 10 years old. He is all boy and a daredevil. But he also has a very soft side. He loves and adores babies but shhhhhh don't tell him I told you. He doesn't ever want anyone to know. He loves to talk and is very inquisitive. Happy birthday, Brandon you are a joy in my life and I love you.

Win a Dyson Pink

2007-09-20T17:56:00.000-05:00

5 Mins for Mom is giving away a Dyson Pink vacuum cleaner. I would love to have one of these but buying one is out of the question. So if you would like a chance to win one go here and find out how to enter. But do it soon as this contest ends Oct. 1.

Contests...Contests...Contests

2007-09-09T09:07:00.000-05:00

Okay 5 Mins for Mom is having several contest as they do on a regular basis. Here are some of the contest they have going on...

First off we have a contest to win this wonderful looking printer. I would love to have this for my photo and scrapbooking projects. It is the new HP Photosmart A626 Compact Photo Printer. To learn more about it an also to enter the contest go http://www.5minutesformom.com/2203/photosmart/, but hurry the contest ends Sept. 10.

Next we have a contest giving away a $50 gift certificate to the With Character Kids website to use to pickout whatever they want for there kids. They have all kinds of bedding, acesories and other stuff with all kinds of kids character on it. Here is a sampling of somethings they offer. Of course, if I win there will be some Thomas the Train stuff I will be purchasing with the gift certificate.

To enter this contest go here. This contest ends on September 21st. Also With Character Kids is also having a giveaway of a $500 shopping spree. So go here to enter. This sweepstake ends on Sept. 12.

Go here to enter to win a kit from Itty Bitty Bookworm Preschool. Contest ends September 12.

They are also giving away a tee shirt from Bitty Braille. Aren't these shirts adorable. Go here to enter by September 14th.

And finally, they are giving away a pair of Khaki Comfy Crawlers pants. They are padded at the knee for children who are learning or doing alot of crawling. Go http://www.5minutesformom.com/2241/comfy-crawlers/ to enter this contest by September 14.

Okay well that is all for the contests for now.

Win an Extend a bib

2007-09-05T15:04:00.000-05:00

Audrey over at So, this is Heaven on Earth is giving away an Extend a bib. It is one of her creations that she sell in her store Sewing the Seams of Love. So go here by Sept. 12 and find out how you can enter this contest to win one of these inventive and beautiful bibs. They come in patterns for boys and girls.

Happy Birthday, Marshall!

2007-08-29T14:56:00.001-05:00

Today is Marshall's 4th birthday. I can hardly believe it has been 4 years. Time flies by so quickly. In some ways he is growing up so fast and in other ways he is still my baby boy. He is such a good big brother. He loves his sisters so much. Of course, Katie has lost some favor since Arabella is the baby and therefore garners more attention and special favor. He adores Arabella so much! He enjoys talking to her and kissing her and hugging her. Sometimes I wish he wouldn't so that she could actually sleep without being bothered, but I am glad that he loves her so.

So Happy Birthday my precious little man!

Photos of my Girls

2007-08-29T14:07:00.000-05:00

Well I had a coupon for a few baby announcements. SO I took advantage of them and they of course take many more photos. SO I have some photos of both my girls at least on my computer. SO enjoy them.

One month Old

2007-08-29T13:56:00.000-05:00

My beautiful little baby girl, Arabella, turned one month old yesterday. I can't believe it has been a whole month already. Well I wanted to share with you some photos we have had done.