Personalized Ornament GIVEAWAY!

I love Christmas time. Even more, I love giving away gifts at Christmas time. I am so excited to announce that I will be giving away TWO personalized ornaments by artist, Haley at Blau Creations. Winner gets to choose the monogrammed name and design! Each glass ornament is carefully hand painted by Haley, herself. I know Haley personally and can assure you that much time, thought, and care is invested into each ornament.

There are a wide variety of choices for all seasons of life: baby's first Christmas, first home, sports, etc. The ideas are endless and Haley is open to anything new! These ornaments make great office gifts, teacher gifts, church gifts, or for a personal keepsake.

Each participant will be assigned a number and I will randomly select three numbers using a random generator. Winners will be notified by email and given 48 hours to claim their prize. If not claimed within 48 hours, a new winner will be selected.

To Enter: Leave your name, email or blog link, and favorite ornament design in the comments section of this post. Limit one entry per person, please.

Giveaway ends Saturday, December 6 at 9:00 pm (Eastern Time). Winners will be announced Monday, December 8.

fPhoto Friday

*UPDATE: I have not been a very good host of fPhoto Friday and I apologize. Things have been quite hectic around here. I promise to do better next week. In the mean time, please "repost" your name on this Mr. Linky below if you are participating today so we can keep it going. Once the giveaway is over, I'll have a spot for the new fPhoto Friday. Thanks for your understanding!

Although today is fPhoto Friday, I haven't had an opportunity to upload any pictures, being out of town. However, I'd still love to see your pics for this week!

Happy Thanksgiving

All Wrinkled Up

You know it has been a very fun bath time when little hands and feet become like this. It reminded me of Dennis the Menace when he thoughtfully informed Mrs. Wilson that his bath time was not finished until he was "wrinkled up".

Volunteered Labor, I Promise!

Before you call The Department of Social Services, or The Child Protective Agency or even read me the laws regarding Child Labor, I must preface this post by saying the following pictures are volunteer basis only.

I, the mother, did not force, infringe, or bribe my son to do anything against his own will and interest, nor would I ever. Except when parental discretion is needed.

Just a little scrub.

Along the edges, very thorough!

Don't forget in between the cracks.

And underneath where dust collects the most.

Have I ever mentioned I am a very Pampered Mommy?

Be Still Sunday

Drum Roll, Please!

And the winner of the Fall Photo Contest is...

click here to find out.

Much acknowledgment is deserved to some wonderful photographers. Thanks Siesta Fiesta for hosting this fun contest!

Last Day To Vote!

This is the last day to cast your vote for the Fall Photo Contest. The poll will close at 6:00 PM. I will post the winner, regardless of outcome!

Thanks for your support. I've really had a good time with this!

Click Here to Vote.

fPhoto Friday

Growing up in the 21st century can come with its disadvantages. Phone conversations with a pre-recorded voice. Latest pop-song ring tone interupting a spoken prayer. The annoying honk to "move over or get run over" by an impatient driver. Yes, these are few of the quirks within our modern world.

However, there are perks to living in such a technologically advanced society. When the Lord's call to ministry leaves a large living distance between you and the relatives, it's nice to have live video chats via computer. To ensure our little baby continues to recognize the faces and voices of his loving grandparents, aunts, and uncles we take full advantage of this convenience.

Here is a picture of a recent video chat with his Papaw. The other half of the grandparent was still at work and my side of the family are out of town. Plus, I had my camera handy when I thought of taking the picture. So...no discrimination among relatives intended.

Even though the hugs and kisses via computer screen are not the same as in person, it is just enough to connect 300 miles of seperation.

Camera: Canon XSi

Setting: Living Room

Christmas Confession

I need to make a confession. Since I can remember, I've always had a strong tradition of not listening to Christmas music until after Thanksgiving. Don't know why, but I wanted to focus my attention on the Thanksgiving season. I don't condone listening to music prior to Thanksgiving nor Christmas shopping, for that matter. It's just become a personal thing.

Well, just yesterday a little Jingle Bell Rock came blaring on the radio. Instead of me quickly staying true to my personal tradition and turning the dial, I did nothing. I began to snap my fingers and dance in the kitchen. Here's the worst part about it all. I've subjected my son to this pre-mature holiday festivity. Before I knew it, we were both jingle bell rockin' it all the way down the hallway.

Although we had a "swell time rockin' the day away", and this particular tradition has kicked the bucket, it made me think of certain traditions and habits that I will not be so lenient with. Like, giving gifts to the needy through sponsors like The Angel Tree or Operation Christmas Child. Even a simple prayer before a meal. And one tradition that I want to pass down to my children is reading the REAL Christmas Story before opening presents. Not the one about Santa's sleigh nor his 8 tiny reindeer. The one about a virgin and her husband-to-be. The story when the ultimate gift, a tiny baby, was sent to this world to save us.

These are just a few family traditions that are a little more important to me than just avoiding Christmas music until after Thanksgiving.

This whole experience has really enlightened me. We must prioritize our lives in a way that we do not compromise our true beliefs and standards. Even though traditions are customs passed down, we must reevaluate ourselves that we are passing to our children the most important values. It wouldn't matter to me if my son began to listen to Christmas music year-round. In all actuality, what a wonderful way to remember the birth of our Saviour by singing hymns of praise during all seasons. It does matter to me that he returns thanks for the gifts in life through service to others and acknowledgement through prayer. Remaining humble is a difficult thing to do but is required to truly hear that voice of Our Father.

I've really taken some time to think about what's most important.

What are some "non-negotiable" traditions and customs your family shares together? I'd love to hear them!

*UPDATED* Vote Today!

*UPDATE: Two photographs were accidentally left off the contest so the voting polls are starting over to ensure fairness. If you voted, please go back to vote once more. I'd appreciate it and so would whoever else you voted for :)*

I know the political election is over, but The Siesta Fiesta is hosting a Fall Photo Contest. One of my fall photos is on display (marked as Natalie in NC). The winner will be chosen based on the number of most votes. There are some amazing photographs from all around that show off the deep colors of God's handywork.

Now...of course I'd love your vote but you are entitled to your own opinion. And yes...no hurt feelings :)

Plus...feel free to spread the word around. The polls end Saturday, Nov. 22 at 6 PM and I will post the winner, regardless! Much credit is due to some great photographers!

Click here to vote!

Let It Snow!

Here are a few snapshots of the beauty we enjoyed last night and are still enjoying this morning. We are especially excited about this extra day with daddy! What a fall!

Flu Shot Inquiry Follow-Up

Thank you all so much for your comments regarding the flu shot. I really appreciate the insight.

The years I taught in the public school system I never took advantage of the free shot offered to teachers. Luckily, I never got the flu. However, last winter my baby boy (7 months old) did get the flu and it was the scariest thing my husband and I ever went through. With a temperature up to 103, I rocked him all day and night, constantly keeping a cool compress to his forehead and body. My husband would wake up every-so-often to refill the water bowl, replacing the fever-hot water with fresh cool. As a new mother, I was terrified. Holding what seemed to be a life-less body and with constant tears streaming down my face, it was hard to block bad thoughts of "what-could-happen". We had a lot of prayers going up for that baby. He pulled through with no harm.

Thanks Be To God.

Not wanting to take that chance again, we decided to give him the shot this year. I know it only protects against certain strains, but we wanted to protect him as much as possible. We also trust our pediatrician, who highly recommended it.

Visiting in and out of the hospitals, my husband opted for the shot this year, as he does every year. As for me, I can't decide if it's stubbornness, ignorance, or just not wanting to pay the $32, but I've opted out of getting one. So here I am again, crossing my fingers for yet another flu-free year. Mommies should come with flu-free resistance because we just can't afford to be sick...EVER! That would be a nice comfort, huh?

Thanks again for all your insights! Your opinions were of great value to me!

SUPER-DUPER CAR SEAT SAVINGS!!!

*UPDATE: The Granite and Cowmooflauge car seats are now out-of-stock. Sorry, ya'll. I tried to get the word out as fast as my little fingers could type. I'll keep you posted on other super savings!*

Okay...I rarly post on Sundays unless it's Be Still Sunday but I just found this offer I want to pass along.

Target has listed their Britax Marathon Car Seat (Fits Newborn-Toddler). for $42.99. Here's the icing on the cake...free shipping. If you are more of an animal lover, the Cowmooflauge Britax Marathon is only $59.99.

I already own a Britax Marathon for one car but only purchased one because it was too expensive to get another for the other car. And actually, it was a gift from the grandparents (Thanks Britt for the reminder :). They are so easy to clean, the straps don't get twisted, and has high ratings on Consumer Reports. After much research on the subject, the Britax Marathon was the best for the buck!

If you know of anyone who's had a baby, thinking of having a baby, needs a new car seat, or just loves great deals no matter what, please pass this along. I don't know how long it's gonna last or if it's too good to be true.

Are you still reading this post? Click over there now!

Flu Shot Inquiry

I'm curious...what are your feelings on the flu shot (for you or your kids)? Are you a full-out advocate for it, get it because it's recommended, or totally against it? I wanna hear your thoughts.

fPhoto Friday

Because I am usually the eye behind the camera, this is one of the few recent pictures I have of me and my son. Hubby took this picture and did a good job considering the fact those little legs are always moving. Any picture of baby that is not blurred is a good one (even if it is the top of his head). Happy fPhoto Friday!

Camera: Canon XSi

Setting: Automatic

Location: Driveway

FREE Photo Book...plus shipping

Click on over to Snapfish to get your FREE (plus shipping) photo book. It's the Oprah Special. Have I ever mentioned that I love the word FREE? Ok...so this offer isn't completely free but I sure love discounts. It's a $29.99 value for only the cost of shipping!! I think my total was $7.49. Mine is printing and on the way. Act now because you have until Friday, November 14 to claim your coupon and have until Sunday, November 15 to redeem it.

This will make a great Christmas gift!!

7x7 Prayer

I LOVE this. This button is simply a reminder to pray daily for your child. Below is a copy of the seven step prayer created by Angie. The world is cruel, Satan is crafty, but the power of prayer withstands all. Join me in prayer...

1. When they wake up: "Let the morning bring (child's name) word of your unfailing love, for she has put her trust in You. Show (her/him) the way (she/he) should go, for to you (he/she) lifts up her soul." (Adapted from Psalm 143:8)

2. When they are getting dressed: "Therefore, as God's chosen child, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Lord, help (him/her) bear with others and forgive whatever grievances (he/she) has against others. Help (him/her) forgive as the Lord forgave (him/her). And over all these virtues, help (him/her) put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." (Adapted from Colossians 3:12-14)

3. While they are eating: "Teach (child's name) the secret of being content in any and every situation whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. Teach (him/her) that (he/she) can do everything through him who gives (him/her) strength." (Adapted from Philippians 4:12-13)

4. When they go out of the house: "(Name of child), do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-His good, pleasing and perfect will." (Adapted from Romans 12:2)

5. While they are taking a bath: Lord, give (name of child) clean hands and a pure heart, and let (him/her) not lift (his/her) soul to an idol or swear by what is false. Let (him/her) receive blessing from the Lord and vindication from God (his/her) Savior. Let (him/her) be part of the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, O God of Jacob. (Adapted from Psalm 24:4-6)

6. When they are going to bed: "The Lord Your God is with you; he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, be will rejoice over you with singing." (Zephaniah 3:17)

7. While they are sleeping: "I pray that (name of child) will do everything without complaining or arguing, so that he/she may become blameless and pure, a child of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which he/she shines like a star in the universe as he/she holds out the word of life-in order that he/she may boast on the day of Christ that he/she did not run or labor for nothing." (Adapted from Philippians 2:14-16)

The Pop-Pop Game

I love playing The Pop-Pop Game. The rules are simple. Actually, there are no rules at all. All you need is a bottle of bubbles, a set of good lungs, and a willing participant. While I blow dozens of soapy creations into the air, my son uses his pointer finger and excitedly bursts the round circles of entertainment. The best part is when he animates each pop with the words "pop-pop". He giggles as the popped bubbles burst on his nose. I giggle because laughter is just plain contagious. It's a great time we enjoy together.

The other day, he discovered a new version of The Pop-Pop Game. I was washing up dishes when I heard those vivacious words, "pop-pop".  I am usually the initiator of the pop-popping and was very curious to see this new stand-in that had replaced me.  As I glanced around the corner, I saw this ray of sunshine coming through the window, hitting the room that highlighted every dust particle floating in the air. Then I observed my clever son hitting the couch in such a way that aggravated the dust to bounce lively into the air, bringing a new meaning to The Pop-Pop Game. Instead of bubbles, my son was pop-popping the dust particles that filled the air.

Huh...I don't think I like the new Pop-Pop Game.

Be Still Sunday

FREE 8x10 Photo

I am bursting at the seams to tell you about this free offer I just discovered. You can get a FREE 8x10...yes, FREE...from your local Walgreens Store. If you don't have a local Walgreens, just check with your relatives or friends that might live near one and ask if they could pick up your pictures for you. That's what I did. Thanks, Mom!

Just register for an account (if you haven't already), upload a picture, and type FREEPIC in the promotional code box. Your total should come to $0.00. I love those numbers...I want to type it again...$0.00! An original $2.99 value for $0.00! I did it again! What a great opportunity for Christmas gifts!! Get yours today!!

ONE MORE THING...offer ends tonight(Saturday, Nov. 8) so get movin'!

fPhoto Friday

The next best thing to seeing the beautiful leaves turn colors, is to play in them once they've fallen.

Camera: Canon XSi

Setting: Backyard

Shutter Speed: 1/80 (to blur the falling leaves)

Freebies For Moms

Want freebies? The research is already done for you. Check this out...

Go and spread the freeness to others.

A Prayer For The New President

Dear Lord,
Please guide our next President to be thoughtful in decision-making. Help give clarity and discernment to his vision. Help our country remember that he is a person, imperfect by nature. Help us not to pass judgement but to remember our roll as Christians in this world...to pray for him.
Amen.

Out of respect for one anothers differences in opinions, please keep any political comments neutral. Thank you.

Pampers Problems

I usually try to avoid such topics as this, however, I am needed some experienced parenting advice. My son has been waking up soakin' wet due to leaks in his diaper. Is the problem as easily solved as buying the next stage up, even if it's not his weight size?

Any advice would be much appreciated!