Peace and Love

Happy Birthday Baby!

2012-02-11T00:59:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to the man of my dreams...

He's an amazing husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend.
He's an amazing man...
He has a heart for God.
He has such a huge and loving heart.

I'm so blessed that God created this man just.for.me...

Love you baby...

~All photos taken by my son Noah~

The Big Ole Pretty Beast

2012-02-03T22:44:00.000-05:00

AHHHH,

(in my "Animal from the Muppets" voice)

I'm so excited!!!!

I'm taking the Big Ole Pretty Beast out of state tomorrow.

We're headed here!

Can't wait to learn more about shooting this film.

It makes me swoon....

Oh, and I'm also excited because I was

so very sneaky

and loaded this film into this camera.

It belongs to my boy and he gets to use it for the first time tomorrow.

He will have fun making pictures with his Daddy...

Ahhhh, I LOVE surprising him!!!

I'll be back soon to report on how the workshop went.

peace, love, and gratitude

When There Are No Roses

2012-01-28T18:01:00.000-05:00

You know the phrase, "Stop and smell the roses"?

Well, sometimes there are no roses.

When we breeze through life only looking for the moments of fun or delight,

we miss the beauty in the not so spectacular things.

Here are several photos of simple beauty that I've stopped to take notice of lately.

leaf--right outside of my front door

flower--on my pillowcase

benches--stacked up at the beach for the winter season

lake--frozen for the winter season

blinds--in my bedroom while I rest in the sunlight

self portrait--before I take a much needed nap

peace

Simple Beauty

2012-01-24T15:13:00.001-05:00

I came by this video today by way of this lovely blog.

Watching Maia, a 95 year old Russian ballerina, touched me to the core...

Enjoy.

My friend Maia from julia warr on Vimeo.

In what ways do you feed and nurture yourself?

peace

Rekindling a Fire

2012-01-18T10:51:00.001-05:00

I used to spend lots of time in museums and libraries when I was younger.

Over the years, those excursions, for the most part, fell away.

I loved the calming "still" you can experience in libraries.

Sometimes, it's so quiet, that you can actually hear yourself think.

I'm also drawn to the architecture.

The simple lines...

I can get lost in the beauty.

In my quest to "expand" this year,

I purpose to bring back the things that added joy to my life.

Spaces like this help me to get the creative juices flowing.

Most importantly, it will offer me a place where I can just sit back and think.

peace

Expand

2012-01-10T22:39:00.000-05:00

What will 2012 bring me?

Well, it has already brought me a focus, and that focus is: Expand...

In my life, callings, relationships, spirituality, and art;

I will expand.

I'm excited about right now and what lies ahead.

peace, love, and blessings...

Not What I Expected

2012-01-09T18:27:00.000-05:00

Today's post was originally supposed to be about 2012 and all of it's possiblitlites.

However, my day shifted and I found myself literally picking my crumbled body and emotions up off the floor.

The truth is, life deals you tidal waves.

These waves sometimes literally CrAsH into you.

And then, you wipe out.

The question is, "Will you stay down or will you get back up?"

I got up...

peace

A Refreshing in 2011

2011-12-30T17:36:00.001-05:00

What did 2011 bring me?

I shed years and discovered a "true" new me.

I slowed down and chose paths "on purpose."

I sang, danced, and laughed MORE.

I reconnected with family.

I realized I am a Mom, a Wife, and an Entrepreneur.

I realized that I COULD make peace in the world, one child at a time.

I realized I am an artist.

I faced shame, guilt, and regret head-on.

I realized I am a life-long learner and a photographer.

What will 2012 bring?

To be continued...

3 Years

2011-12-29T09:47:00.002-05:00

It has been three years since I wrote my first blog post.

My blogging style has evolved and changed some since then.

But, one thing is constant.

I enjoy spreading love here on my blog; sharing uplifting, inspiring, and encouraging snippets from my life.

I enjoy talking about my family and how much they fuel me.

I'm looking forward to many more posts over the years. I looking forward to more growth and developing meaningful connections with others in the world I call "Bloggyland".

Thank you for reading and commenting with your thoughts here. Thank you for being a participant in my world filled with images and thoughts.

Peace and Love to you...

(Photos from a Winter shoot in 20 degree weather with my son and sister-friend Bri.)

Break Days

2011-12-21T11:43:00.000-05:00

My boy loves "break days"; days when he does not have to go to school.

He gets to do things like play video games, play on the computer,

but, most of all...spend extra time with his Dad and me.

On this break day, we hit the mall. I had a few more gifts to pick up for Christmas, so, we braved the crowd.

We only went to a couple key stores.

The LEGO store...

LUSH...ahhh....

The APPLE store...

and Anthropologie... LOVE this place.

They always have the coolest displays.

The background is made from photo slides!!

How cool is that?

Once we were home, Noah decided to dig right into his new legos.

"Mommy, come play with me."

Of course, I did.

After two hours straight of sorting and connecting...

Here's his masterpiece, he doesn't want ANYONE to touch it.

Well, I'm off to another break day with my boy.

peace, love, and gratitude

Better Late than Never

2011-12-19T11:44:00.000-05:00

I wasn't really in the Christmas spirit until our decor went up in our home...

My husband and I work full-time and lead a very busy family life.

I was able to take a few hours the other day, and add some holiday flair to our home.

It took us a while, but I always say, "Better late than never."

Learning Curves

2011-12-14T20:33:00.000-05:00

I've been exploring my creative side, digging deeper, finding out what inspires me.

I'm learning that I'm ever changing, analyzing, figuring myself out.

I'm a learner. It's what I do. It's what I crave.
Sometimes my learning can send me into a tizzy. Those learning curves can be fierce...

(Pocket-shot with my iPhone on my recent ascension up Stone Mountain.)

My newest goal was to create a blog button.

I researched and researched...that's also what I do.
I'm proud to say that the research paid off.

I did it and here's my button!

If you would like the code, look for it in the right column of my blog.
Well, I'm off to do some more researching and learning.

peace

300

2011-12-09T03:07:00.001-05:00

This is my 300th post!!

I'm pretty excited that I've shared 300 ideas with you.

I want to use this post to find out what brings you to my blog?

What would you like to read more about or see here?

Thank you readers for reading and coming back time and time again!

Peace and Love

I've Got These Georgian Skies On My Mind...

2011-11-30T19:46:00.001-05:00

I recently returned from a delightful visit with my family in Atlanta, GA.

The entire trip, the weather was perfect.

These skies take me back there.

My Collection

2011-11-19T16:25:00.001-05:00

I have had some questions about the cameras I've been using.

Check out my new page "Camera Collection" to see my ~~paintbrushes~~ cameras.

I will add more specific information about each camera as well.

Enjoy!!

A Little Bit of Love

2011-11-15T18:45:00.001-05:00

Spread a little bit of love today.

peace

Cousins...no...Brothers

2011-11-05T16:45:00.001-04:00

We recently took a rode-trip to celebrate our Godson/Nephew's baptism.

He's getting so big, he's becoming a young man right before our eyes.

It was a weekend of celebration.

The night before the baptism, we celebrated the twin's 6th birthday.

Although their birthdays were a week away, their parents made this happen; so that we could be there.

Two cakes, two birthday songs, two amazing little men.

One of my little men just loves taking pictures.

This shot tugs at my heart every.single.time...

We also celebrated the dedication of the newest brother.

He is sweet as apple pie (pun intended Sis!!).

Noah is an only child.

However, he is blessed with great friends (he is outside with one right now) and amazing cousins.

The truth is, these boys are not just his cousins, they are also his brothers.

peace, love, and family

Out on a Chilly Night

2011-11-01T19:58:00.005-04:00

Well, we braved the weather and these lil' creatures peeking out at us...

Darth Vader conquered Halloween!

He was SO tired that at one point he sat down on someone's porch to get some rest...

He scored LOADS of treats so his hard work paid off!!

I had a little fun and couldn't resist trying on my niece's Barbie wig!!

much love...

Embracing Now

2011-10-31T20:42:00.000-04:00

With every season comes beauty.

As seasons pass, there are things that will be missed.

I'm learning to embrace now and enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons.

peace

Shooting New

2011-10-26T20:07:00.012-04:00

I shot with one of my new cameras today.

Learn more about the Polaroid Spectra 2 HERE.

I used this FILM that I purchased on a rode trip from this STORE.

I was so nervous. I didn't want to make mistakes, I didn't want to waist the film. I even consulted with a friend, who is a photography genius. She left me with this quote, "If it catches your eye, don't pass it by."

That was exactly what I needed. So I threw fear out the door and took the leap.

"Shooting "new" was amazing; trekking around looking for colors, moments, still, peace, beauty.

I haven't shot a Polaroid in over 25 years. There are some amazing Instant film photographers out there. To be honest, although I was blown away by the beauty of their art, I didn't totally get it, until today.

I got where their excitement, drive, and polaroid passion came from when that little piece of hand/eye-designed-art landed into the palm of my hand.

Then the creamy colors began to form inside of the dark cool case I brought along with me...

The result...

creamy deliciousness.

peace, love, and passion!

A New Fave!!

2011-10-19T16:26:00.012-04:00

My birthday was last month...

and I love bags and purses, so my guy decided to spring for a new one.

This is my new Kelly Moore bag!!

Go HERE to learn more about The Posey Bag.

The coolest thing about it, is that it has all

of these delicious compartments and a variety of ways that you can carry it.

If you know me, you know this is RIGHT up my alley.

After a month of having my bag, I can honestly say that I use it most of the time. Kelly's bags are amazing...

I already know which one I will spring for next.

Go HERE take a look at her amazing bags. ;)

peace

Elemental Visions

2011-10-15T05:13:00.018-04:00

My love for photography goes WAY back to sitting with my Nanny and pouring over her many,

many photo albums.

As we looked at page after page, she would tell me who the person or what the event was in the picture. I LOVED IT!!! It never got old...

I love pictures.

I love to see events and art captured in still shots, to enjoy over and over again.

I especially love the act of taking a picture, deciding on just...the...right...moment to snap-the-shot.

I'm sure this love is part of the reason that I was drawn to this dynamic duo!!

Although I love photography, I recently discovered that something was missing for me. Or better yet, I realized that I had a buried passion...I was missing the touch and the feel of the photograph. Some recent events reminded me of this.

1) My sister-friend was moving away and snapped a few shots of us with her instant camera. It was all I could do, not to squeal in delight at the little picture popping out of the camera!

2) A bloggy friend recently commented that I need to open an Etsy shop and sell prints of my photos/art. I was stunned by the compliment and intrigued by the possibility.

3) At a recent vintage shop, I literally stumbled upon some really cool vintage cameras.

Because of these random, yet perfectly designed events, I opened my Etsy shop.

Welcome to Elemental Visions...

It has been so much fun finding cameras for my shop. I love playing with them and am becoming quite knowledgable about cameras from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s. I've ordered lots of film and am trying out some new things.

My photography art will be coming along and added to my shop one day. Right now, I am just getting my feet wet, pacing myself and enjoying something new from something old.

peace, love, and passion!

iVisionary, iGenius...

2011-10-07T08:10:00.013-04:00

In 1954, a pregnant single mother had a choice to make regarding her unplanned pregnancy.

She chose to go to term and deliver her baby boy.

She put her newborn son up for adoption to a loving family named Jobs, who named their son, Steven.

It shows how the choice for LIFE can change the world..."Christina Lusk"

iShuffle, iPod Classic, iTouch, iPad, Macbook Pro, iPhone

That's what makes our lives a bit easier at my house and it is because of this iVisionary, iGenius right here.

The story behind this photo:

http://www.good.is/post/good-design-daily-a-fitting-homage-to-steve-jobs/

Be at Peace and thank you for sharing the Love Steve.

Steve addresses Stanford graduates:

http://www.ted.com/talks/steve_jobs_how_to_live_before_you_die.html

My Boy and I

2011-09-26T22:15:00.013-04:00

Noah as "Green Lantern"

at a friend's recent Supermodel/Superhero BDay bash!

These past few days have been so much fun with my boy.

Singing to this new cd in the car...

Doing puzzles like these...

and playing an oldie but goodie

in this new mod version!

I have always been a lover of music, puzzles and board games.

I am so blessed to have a son that has similar interests.

peace

Keep Going to the Top

2011-09-19T18:20:00.005-04:00

We found this new park about 20 minutes away from our home.

We decided to explore it one day this summer.

It has this really cool spiderweb climber that Noah had to conquer.

He thought this was a trampoline in the middle, but nope...

I'm sorta glad, I don't think a trampoline in the middle of climbing ropes is a good idea.

He was determined to get to the top.

He actually asked me today, "Mom, how can you do things and never give up?"

First of all, I'm glad he recognizes perseverance in me.

I told him, "You just do it. You keep going and trying until you get it done."

Maybe not the most eloquent answer, but he got my point.

He made it to the top by the way...

PEACE

Welcome Back In

2011-09-07T18:34:00.007-04:00

My Boy had his first day of school today.

He is in a new classroom this year with 8, 9, and 10 year olds.

He was so busy reuniting with friends this morning that there was no time for mushiness.

No time for teary goodbyes.

When I picked him up, he was in the field with his pals.

Running, enjoying the brisk Michigan air.

Enjoying life...

My boy is now 9-years-old.

He is done with the "Early Childhood Years"and on his way to the tweens...

So, I will cherish these tender times even more now.

The boys at the foot of my bed.

peace, love, and gratitude

Day 31

2011-08-31T01:26:00.009-04:00

Goodbye August...

Day 30

2011-08-30T01:26:00.006-04:00

New adventures lie ahead!!

Day 29

2011-08-29T01:08:00.003-04:00

My brother blessed me today.

I am sincerely grateful...

Day 28

2011-08-28T09:53:00.004-04:00

The next generation of first cousins...

Is my niece too cute or what!?!

Day 27

2011-08-27T09:17:00.000-04:00

My paternal Grandfather and Auntie...

My paternal Grandmother (left) and Great-grandmother (right)...

The five Collins children (Archie, Pete, Lorraine, Nadine, and Wanda).

My Daddy and brother...

People always tell us how much we look alike as a family.

Each young man in this picture is a child of one of the Collins siblings.

The resemblance just blows me away...

Day 26

2011-08-26T09:12:00.001-04:00

Hills of Virginia

Summer is wrapping up.

I smell Fall in the air...

Day 25

2011-08-25T09:01:00.005-04:00

Not too long ago, my boy had his ninth birthday.

We had a fun WEEK celebrating him.

There were riddles, clues and lots of gifts.

He then had a family party and was blessed even more.

You may remember these pictures.

Well, I'm happy to report that they worked faster than expected.

My 9-yr-old big boy can officially ride a two-wheeler bike!!

Day 24

2011-08-24T08:58:00.002-04:00

God's reminder of His love...

Day 23

2011-08-23T08:50:00.002-04:00

My Uncle Pete was my Daddy's older brother.

He passed away recently.

My Uncle was the type of man who told is like it was.

He also had one of the best laughs.

Love you Uncle,

Your legacy lives on in all of us "Collins Kids".

peace

Day 22

2011-08-22T21:58:00.002-04:00

Last week of summer camp and

we have a superhero on our hands!!!

Day 21

2011-08-21T21:58:00.002-04:00

Good friends =

Good times!!

Day 20

2011-08-20T22:01:00.004-04:00

What's this face for???

Spoons in hand and they're ready to go!!!

Day 19

2011-08-19T21:56:00.004-04:00

Noah really wanted to climb this tree but needed his Daddy's help.

I love watching these two together.

Day 18

2011-08-18T16:48:00.004-04:00

It has been such a long time since I just sat on a swing

and enjoyed the breeze...

Day 17

2011-08-17T16:39:00.001-04:00

I stumbled upon this place today...

Day 16

2011-08-16T16:32:00.004-04:00

It's no secret that I really enjoy Starbucks...

Stopped on my way to work to have one of these puppies the other day.

YUM!!

Day 15

2011-08-15T21:11:00.005-04:00

I purchased some therapy tools for my boy.

Better balance, here we come!!

Day 14

2011-08-14T21:09:00.002-04:00

These thumb mugs are a few (couple) of my favorite things...

Day 13

2011-08-13T21:05:00.001-04:00

I'm not the only Gleek in my house.

I took my boy to see the "Glee LIVE 3D" movie this past weekend.

Needless to say, we LOVED it!

Day 12

2011-08-12T15:09:00.008-04:00

This weeping willow is what I call "Our Tree".

My husband proposed to me at this park and then we were married here.

It is our special place...

Happy Birthday Momma!!!

2011-08-11T13:20:00.003-04:00

Yep, this is my Momma, not my sister.

I can only hope to be as youthful as her one day.

I love you Momma, enjoy YOUR day!

Day 10

2011-08-10T11:54:00.002-04:00

No matter where we go, we get excited when one of these crosses our path!!

Day 9

2011-08-09T11:50:00.004-04:00

Scenic view during our travels...

Day 8

2011-08-08T21:44:00.003-04:00

This rooster was outside of my West Virginian hotel this morning.
Gotta love the WV!!

Day 7

2011-08-07T18:05:00.004-04:00

My brave, brave boy on a ceiling ropes course. The older gentleman had his back the whole way. Thank and bless you Mr. Eric. Thanks to your granddaughter too for sharing you with Noah!

Day 6

2011-08-06T19:45:00.003-04:00

Broadway at the Beach

Day 5

2011-08-05T19:03:00.004-04:00

Day 4

2011-08-04T07:39:00.005-04:00

Day 3

2011-08-03T23:55:00.003-04:00

Day 2

2011-08-02T21:39:00.007-04:00

The August Break Day 1

2011-08-01T16:08:00.008-04:00

It's time for me to get in some rest and relaxation...

I'll be popping in soon to tell you about my summer.

Much peace, love, and balance everyone. ;)

Expression

2011-07-19T16:47:00.014-04:00

Many moons ago, I took this course:

(click here)

Two important things I learned were:

1) I am an artist.

and

2) I can journal anyway I wish.

As a child, I thought I wasn't good at art because, my drawings, paintings and sculptures didn't look like the teachers or other students.

Over time, even though I longed for art mediums, I told myself, "Why waste the money, you can't draw or paint."

As a teenager and then adult, I thought journaling meant filling pages and pages of a cool "Hemingway-like" looking bound book with thoughtful sentences.

I tried many times and started many, many, (no really) many journals...

that I eventually threw away.

I would write and write, but something was missing...

Because of Shannon's course, I am wiser.

I NOW know that my blog, full of thoughts and art (my pictures), is my public journal that I share with each of you beautiful people.

I also now have an art journal that I treasure.

It is my personal space, to capture my thoughts through writing as well as painting, doodling, drawing, and collaging.

This is my space where I work and journal.

These tools seem to be my favorite lately.

What's your avenue for expression?

Noah and The Wizard...

2011-07-14T15:46:00.008-04:00

My son was asked to be in a promo/commercial for our church's upcoming backpack giveaway.

He was so awesome at getting ready for the big event.

He worked hard practicing his lines and facial expressions...

It was such a crazy shooting day...

We had to film in the middle of a thunderstorm.

As we "cut", the rain began to pour down.

Well done everyone, especially our good friend the wizard.

Well without further ado,

Noah and The Wizard!!!

I'm a Gleek and Proud of It!!

2011-07-08T23:20:00.000-04:00

Yep, I'm a Gleek...and proud of it.

My girl Briony scored floor seats to the live concert.

I, at first, was like, "Ok, this will be fun!"

When the concert started, let's just say I was like 13-years-old for about 5 minutes.

I recovered and my 38-year-old self sang, danced, and screamed the rest of the night.

Did I feel young and vibrant? YES!!

Did I have an amazing time? YES!!

Did I have my earplugs? OH YES!!!

Hahaha...peace and love

Adventure Partying

2011-06-30T17:20:00.001-04:00

We are so very blessed to have such wonderful friends.

With every weekend, an adventure party awaits us.

One of the latest adventure parties, was for our little friends Angel and Micah.

There was swimming...

Pony rides...

and ofcourse yummy cake!

All of the children had so much fun!!

Genuine Harmony

2011-06-28T11:27:00.020-04:00

Genuine Harmony.

That's me, that's my Style Statement.

I found it by doing the work in this book:

You can purchase this book on Amazon, for your Kindle, or pick it up at your local library.

It has been so liberating to uncover and describe:

My Foundational Essence as Genuine

actual, candid, earnest, frank, heartfelt, natural, open, positive, pure, real, reliable, sincere, true, trustworthy, undesigning, unfeigned, unimpeachable, unpretended, unquestionable, up front, valid, well-established

and My Creative Edge as Harmony

accord, balance, blending, chime, congruity, consistency, form, integration, integrity, oneness, order, parallelism, peace, proportion, regularity, richness, suitability, symmetry, togetherness, tune, unity

Do yourself a favor grab this book, take sometime for yourself, and dig in to you...

peace and love

Guest Blogging

2011-06-27T09:23:00.005-04:00

I am pretty excited about my first guest blogging experience.

I had the pleasure of talking about my son, one of my favorite subjects.

Go over and take a look. Feel free to comment there...

(CLICK HERE)

peace

The Fischer

2011-06-24T16:18:00.001-04:00

I recently went to see the musical "Chicago", at the Fischer in Detroit.

My girlfriends and I had a fantastic time.

We were all taken in by the beautiful architecture.

Such charm,

such beauty...

peace

Up North

2011-06-21T05:18:00.006-04:00

I went on a trip to Northern Michigan with this handsome man recently.

We celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary.

Here are some of the wonderful sights from our trip...

It was beautiful.

We realized/remembered how much we love to be together,

just having US time.

I'm so grateful to be in love with my best friend.

peace

Goodbye School Year...

2011-06-20T16:59:00.008-04:00

Seriously, time really does fly...

The 2010-2011 school year is over.

I remember Noah's first day of third grade as if it was just last week.

Remember him at the top of the tree???

Well, since then, he has grown so much.

He is moving on to fourth grade and received his award for completing his afternoon "commitment" classes.

So, we've said good-bye to friends...

and teachers...

until we meet again.

peace and love

Color and The Absence Of...

2011-06-16T18:07:00.007-04:00

I did this project for a class that I'm in.

The one with color is so vibrant and alive to me so I used that one for the assignment.

Then I thought,

"What would black and white (one of my favorite ways to look at things) do to the photo?"

"Why stop there? What about sepia?"

Which one is your favorite?

(I've been drawn to sepia lately...)

Inspiration

2011-06-14T09:23:00.003-04:00

This woman truly inspires me...

I Almost Missed It On This One...

2011-06-02T17:52:00.010-04:00

Whew, I almost missed out on noticing my boy's creativity.

Why, you ask?

Because it wasn't what I expected.

You see, I always thought I wasn't creative, for various reasons.

But, now I know I am.

However, I still have a lot of "garbage" to wash out of my head apparently.

Because, although my son has been "creating" all school year, I thought he wasn't.

No, he hasn't been painting pictures, or weaving, or sewing, or even drawing that much like last year.

No, He's. Been. BUILDING!!!

Take a look at some of his most recent pieces.

Box

Inside the Box

Secret Compartment!!! shhh...

Swiveled Handle Toolbox

Bench Top

That also works as a Table in his reading nook!

He has a blood blister on one of his fingers from one of these nails...

The Birdhouse

He is so proud of all of his creations,

and I am too!!

Tranquility

2011-05-30T21:19:00.007-04:00

I'm glad to be back home.

But, I brought a little tranquility back with me.

peace

Fifteen...Part 2

2011-05-25T07:00:00.020-04:00

~"One" in 2011~

Fifteen years ago,

I woke up from my sleepover and headed to my beautician so he could make my hair beautiful.

I had so many thoughts running through my head.

-Will my brothers (and brothers-in-love) be able to physically get everything ready?

-Will my girlfriends be able to get to the park and church to help Devin?

-Is my Mom and Dad ready to marry me?

-Are my spiritual brothers ready to sing all those songs during our wedding?

-Did all of the relatives make it here? Especially, the chartered bus of folks from Kentucky?

-Do we have enough seating? food?

-Did I forget ANYTHING?

-Am I ready???

Yes, I was!!

~One in 2010~

The day was lovely.

Our outside wedding, in the park where Devin proposed, was risky. It had rained the night before, but was bright and sunny on the big day.

~Our Park in 2009~

So many memories...so much love...so many people...

Some of those folks have moved on and are no longer here on this earth. I cherish them. I thank each and every person who gave their love to Devin and I that day.

They helped us

become one.

Fifteen years ago, I married the man who is now part of me.

He is my lover, my companion, my best friend.

He is father to my son and the hero in my action-packed dramas.

~One in 1996~

He IS my soulmate...Happy Anniversary to us.

~One on Easter 2011~

much love everyone

Fifteen...Part 1

2011-05-24T18:31:00.006-04:00

Fifteen years ago I was headed to Detroit to my Nanny's house.

You see, my younger siblings and I had decided to have a sleepover.

It was tricky getting us all together back then. They lived so far away. Even harder now with us ALL over the country... Anyway, I digress.

That night was planned to be a night to reminisce and commemorate my last evening as a single woman.

That was all I wanted on that precious night before.

Time to spend with them and really let go of being their surrogate Momma, their big Sis. I had a new role ahead of me. I was to become one with someone else.

Gerri (top center), Sherri (bottom right), Archie (top right), Andre (top left), Bethany (bottom left),

and Laila (snuck in the bottom center)

Photo taken in 2007 after Nanny's memorial service.

It was so much fun!!

We stayed up late into the night and talked about the good ole days.

As everyone laid on the floor and dozed off, I looked over the room and thought,

"This is it.

My life will never be the same..."

...and, it wasn't.

To Be Continued

Adjusting

2011-05-16T12:49:00.011-04:00

It's been a little over a week since we moved all of our things to our new place.

We are adjusting to living in a space that is 1,000 square feet smaller than our previous home.

It's been worth it!

The convenience of having some of our very favorite spots within 5-20 (instead of 60) minutes away of our new place, has been worth it alone.

But, one thing I will surely miss is my:

But that's ok, I'm adjusting...

I was a bit worried about not seeing lil' guys like this on a consistent basis.

But, you know what? Guess who came to visit right outside of our balcony and patio one Saturday evening?

It's as if these deer were our little welcoming committee.

I think adjusting will flow easier and easier as the days go by.

peace

My Primary Focus

2011-04-30T01:08:00.006-04:00

Lately, my primary focus has been this:

and getting ready for these guys:

Since this is less than one week away,

I must remain peacefully paced...

A Love Gift

2011-04-15T12:32:00.028-04:00

Why do I do what I do?

Why did I make a career shift and focus on the mental health of young children?

This is why...

Today, I received a "love gift" from a little 4-year-old who out of respect I will call "Adam".

Adam: Gives me a non-working cell phone, "My Momma's on the phone."

Me: "What's her name? Momma?"

Adam: "No, it's 'B'."

Me: I grab the phone, "Oh. Hi B."

Adam: With a play phone to his ear, he watches me...

Me: "How are you, B." and I continue with a pretend conversation...

Adam: Whispers to me, "She's hurt."

Me: "Oh, I'm sorry that you're hurt. I hope you're feeling better."

Adam: Still whispering, "She is better, but a man pushed her." "A BIG man!" as he raises his arms very high.

Me: "Oh, I'm glad you are better, but that is sad a big man pushed you. That is NOT ok and I'm sorry."

Adam: "And, she has a hand disease."

Me: I stop talking on the phone and look at Adam, "A head disease?" as I touch my head...

Adam: "No, a HAND!!! disease." as he shows his hands.

Me: "Oh, a hand disease. Well I hope she gets healed of it and feels better really soon." I smile.

Adam: "Ms. Gerri, I'm gone make you sumthin'." He looks around the classroom, grabs a pipe-cleaner, thinks, and goes back for another one. After a few minutes of hard work and pokes to his tiny little hands. He gave me this love gift.

In 19 years of working with children, I think this is my most treasured gift. I showed Adam love and he immediately returned the gesture.

Adam is not on my caseload. Another child in his classroom actually is. Since Adam knows me from working with the other boy, he has gotten to know me and looks to play with me when I enter the room.

You see, Adam is in trouble in this classroom, ALOT. He actually was in "time-out" when I walked into the classroom this morning.

But, something about our relating together helps him feel safe, and you know what? I wouldn't trade that for all the money in the world.

That's why I do what I do.

much love

Springtime...

2011-04-12T19:20:00.004-04:00

I think it really is finally here to stay...

peace

Puppy Love

2011-04-05T08:46:00.003-04:00

Nothing like a little puppy love to brighten your day!!

love

God's Beauty...

2011-04-04T08:20:00.008-04:00

I woke up to this beautiful painting by God, Sunday morning...

Without thinking twice,

I ran to grab my phone,

ran outside barefoot in my nightgown,

and began to take all sorts of pictures with my Retro Camera app.

I'm a sucker for the sky...

Enjoy!!

My absolute favorite one...

peace

And the Winner is...

2011-04-03T12:57:00.007-04:00

After a random drawing, congratulations to...

septembermom:

"This sounds really good. What a great giveaway Gerri. Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed the book so much. Enjoy your weekend :)"

Message me your address so I can send you the book to enjoy!!!

peace and love everyone

This Touched My Heart and a Give-A-Way!!!

2011-03-30T18:42:00.016-04:00

I finished reading this book today and in knocked my socks off...

I was so touched that I want to spread a little love.

Leave a comment on this post and you can win this book.

I will randomly draw a name and send the book to the winner.

It's as simple as that.

~~Post by 8am Sunday morning.~~

Comments are now closed...

Winner will be announced later today!!!

peace and love

Something New--"Family Resources"

2011-03-22T17:31:00.009-04:00

Hi Bloggy friends!!

I so excited to tell you about my new blog tab called "Family Resources"!!!

Some of you may know that I am an Early Childhood Consultant.

I have spent that last 20 years learning and specializing in all that is necessary to educate and grow healthy children.

I wanted to take this part of me and infuse it into my blog somehow.

In this new section of the blog,

I will add tips, websites, and any other goodies that I've come across

in my continued effort to educate others and learn myself.

Feel free to contact me if you have questions or requests for information.

I'm looking forward to sharing and growing with each of you!!!

peace, love, healthy adults and children!!!

These are a Few of My Favorite Things...2

2011-03-22T08:35:00.004-04:00

~2~

The Sky...

("Australian Sky" picture by my brother Archie)

P.S. My ~1~ doesn't have to be a particular brand...just delicious!! :)

These are a Few of My Favorite Things...1

2011-03-19T17:32:00.004-04:00

I thought it would be cool to start capturing some of my favorite things...

~1~

I love this stuff.

The way it smells, the way it tastes...

peace

Wordless Wednesday--Finding His Music

2011-03-16T09:00:00.006-04:00

"Music and rhythm find their way into the secret places of the soul."

~Plato

Join the Fun Here

Bathing Incentive

2011-03-14T17:38:00.011-04:00

Bathing....

"Boys around the age of 8 stop wanting to do it...

He will pick it up again when he is interested in girls..."

(so my husband says to save his son from my tongue lashings!!!)

My solution?

Inviting him to pick out his favorite soaps one day.

(Sorry, this is a newer photo of the soap in a used state. The original photo has vanished.)

Noah has been washing and oohing and ahhing...

SUCCESS!!

I wish posts could be scratch n sniffs.

You would LOVE these:

Cherry Blossom, Dragonfly, and Easter

It was hard to only pick out 3.

I think there were at least 20 choices.

I bought them at a dear friend's lovely shop,

Union General in Clarkston, MI.

Nothing like supporting your local business owner and friend...

peace, love, and bathing

Goodbyn Update Part III-A Year Later

2011-03-12T00:59:00.006-05:00

A year later,

It's still going strong...

The stickers are in perfect condition...

(Noah added a Star Wars and Pokemon sticker.

They are not part of the original Goodbyn set and are peeling off.)

and the lunchbox is practically like new.

Well worth the $25 dollars.

Temporarily Blinded...

2011-03-08T17:27:00.003-05:00

So, I didn't think this one through at all...

Mental note:

Don't use your flash to take a picture in the movie theater.

You may temporarily blind your child...

I'm not perfect and I'm ok with that.

peace

Cute Lil' Things...

2011-02-28T19:46:00.007-05:00

Picked these up today...

They are the cutest little things...

peace

Wishy Washy...

2011-02-26T15:06:00.014-05:00

I do not have 19 kids. But, the Duggars do.

So, I'm pretty sure they know a thing or two about keeping a family clean and healthy while also saving money...

My friend Stephanie hipped me to their homemade laundry soap formula.

I decided to try it...

I used the recipe for the liquid version. I plan to try the powder one next.

[The recipes for both are at the bottom of this post.]

I bought this 5 gallon bucket and lid (not shown) from Walmart for about $3.50.

I found this box of super soda from Meijer for about $3.

I found this bar soap at our specialty grocery store (VGs) for $1.50.

I found this borax at Walmart for about $3.

I usually spend $10 on an all natural liquid detergent (green bottle below).

After doing the recipe...

I filled this ENTIRE bucket with soap.

I filled my old bottle half way, added water...

and still had this much left.

I'm thinking I will be able to do this at least 4 more times.

That's a 5 to 1 Ratio, for just $11!!!!

**BONUS**--When I do it again, I won't need to buy a bucket, or either of the powders...SO...I will just have to spend $1.50 for a new bar of soap.

I don't know about you, but I'll take that!!!

Happy Washing Everyone!!

Duggars Recipes

Homemade Liquid Laundry Soap Recipe - Front or Top Load Machine

4 Cups - hot tap water
1 Fels - Naptha soap bar
1 Cup - Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda*
½ Cup Borax

- Grate bar of soap and add to saucepan with water. Stir continually over medium-low heat until soap dissolves and is melted.

-Fill a 5 gallon bucket half full of hot tap water. Add melted soap, washing soda and Borax. Stir well until all powder is dissolved. Fill bucket to top with more hot water. Stir, cover and let sit overnight to thicken.

-Stir and fill a used, clean, laundry soap dispenser half full with soap and then fill rest of way with water. Shake before each use. (will gel)

-Optional: You can add 10-15 drops of essential oil per 2 gallons. Add once soap has cooled. Ideas: lavender, rosemary, tea tree oil.

-Yield: Liquid soap recipe makes 10 gallons.

-Top Load Machine- 5/8 Cup per load (Approx. 180 loads)

-Front Load Machines- ¼ Cup per load (Approx. 640 loads)

*Arm & Hammer "Super Washing Soda" - in some stores or may be purchased online here (at Meijer.com). Baking Soda will not work, nor will Arm & Hammer Detergent - It must be sodium carbonate!!

Powdered Laundry Detergent - Top Load Machine

1 Fels-Naptha soap bar
1 Cup - Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda*
½ Cup Borax

-Grate soap or break into pieces and process in a food processor until powdered. Mix all ingredients. For light load, use 1 Tablespoon. For heavy or heavily soiled load, use 2 Tablespoons. Yields: 3 Cups detergent. (Approx. 40 loads)

*Arm & Hammer "Super Washing Soda" - in some stores or may be purchased online here (at Meijer.com). Baking Soda will not work, nor will Arm & Hammer Detergent - It must be sodium carbonate!!

TIPS FOR LAUNDRY SOAP: The Duggars use Fels-Naptha bar soap in the homemade soap recipes, but you can use Ivory, Sunlight, Kirk's Hardwater Castile or Zote bars. Don't use heavily perfumed soaps. They buy Fels-Naptha by the case from our local grocer or online. Washing Soda and Borax can often be found on the laundry or cleaning aisle. Recipe cost approx. $2 per batch.

My Boy

2011-02-24T08:09:00.007-05:00

Noah creating at a Lego store in Chicago

I'm going to pick up my boy today.

He's been visiting with his grandparents for two whole days.

It has been lovely moving around as a unit-of-one instead of a unit-of-two.

Truth is, I miss him, and can't wait to feel his embrace.

much love

Changes

2011-02-22T23:29:00.010-05:00

My Momma has sometimes called me a gypsy because I like to move around.

I seek change...

Change in scenery, change in jobs, etc.

You see, I'm the type of person who doesn't settle until it feels and flows just right.

Well, 8 years ago I began a fascinating and wonderful loc journey.

I grew my natural hair and loc-ed it along the way.

(I don't call them "dread-locs" because there's nothing dreadful about them.

That's where the term dread-locs came from.

Someone thought they were "dreadful" and the name took hold...)

Anywhoo,

This is one of the pictures that represents one of my longest lengths.

I yearned for change and cut my hair Summer 2009...

Drastic.

Then, my hair grew and grew.

I then cut it and found this style again in Summer 2010.

But you know what, I really didn't want to wear locs anymore and I knew that.

But, I was scared. I thought, "What will people say?" "Will my face look to fat?" "Will I dread the change and cry?"

But, I knew in my heart that I wanted to comb my hair. I wanted to feel my hair in it's loosened state again.

So, I made a huge decision and after much thought found my way to me again.

I'm loving me, inside and out!!

Remember, do what works for you...

peace, love, and authenticity

Sunday Citar-Nature

2011-02-20T17:30:00.007-05:00

Noah's creation at his school's 2011 Arts Festival

"Your deepest roots are in nature.

No matter who you are, where you live, or what kind of life you lead, you remain irrevocably linked with the rest of creation."

Charles Cook

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