Life with Kiki and Coco

9 months

2011-04-01T20:27:00.000-05:00

Happy Weekend!

We had a photo shoot for Parker's 9 month pictures this week (a few weeks late) and it was so much fun! Parker is such a happy baby. He is getting so big! He is definitely adventurous and a little bit mischievous! His smile melts my heart and since he is all smiles I am a puddle most of the time. :)

Our fabulous photographer, Ann Wade Parrish, posted some of the pictures on her blog this week. I am in LOVE! She captured him so well. Click here to check them out!

And if you want to take a trip down memory lane with us, check out Parker's 3 month and 6 month pictures too!

We are gearing up for lots of friends and family next weekend. Parker is being dedicated and we will have lots of visitors to share in this very special time with us!

Wordless Wednesday...Parker @ almost 9 months, WOW it's flown by...

2011-03-09T06:00:00.008-06:00

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T18:54:00.000-06:00

We are celebrating Christmas with Gdaddy, Honey, Sissy and Doc! Parker's first Christmas was even a white one! Little bit is under the weather but we are making memories in spite of it. :)

We wish you all a very merry Christmas!

Time for blogging...

2010-12-05T07:18:00.002-06:00

A little update in the lives of Kiki, Coco and Parker. Parker is almost 6 months old! He is really coming into his little personality and is so much fun. This week he mastered sitting up!

I apologize for the lovely bib - this kid produces more spit than I thought humanly possible. No teeth yet but he is drooling like a fool!

I am told our lives are REALLY going to change now. Bring it on! So sorry the blogging is nonexistent. I am still trying to figure out how to fit everything into my life and find time for sleep too. If any of you have figured this out, please share your fabulous secrets. I need them...like yesterday!

I must run - I hope to start and finish my Christmas decorating today! Wish me luck!

Happy Birthday Sissy!

2010-12-04T07:17:00.000-06:00

To my sister, my best friend and the sweetest aunt to Parker I could have ever asked for...

Happy Birthday!

May you be queen for the day (or week)! You reign in my heart. :) I don't know what I would do without you. So thankful God put us together. I love you!

**For those of you who are unsure - I am holding up Sissy's "train" in the picture above. Don't you just love our Burger King crowns?

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T14:41:00.000-05:00

Because Kiki is a Slacker

2010-10-25T15:31:00.001-05:00

....or maybe because she is a new-ish mom :). love ya, seester!

isn't he scrumptious?! cannot wait to kiss those cheeks!

-peace out, MC

We love Fall in Alabama!

2010-10-04T08:42:00.001-05:00

Monogram Chick {aka: Sissy} posting because I'm having serious Parker withdraws. Coco emailed this pic yesterday while they were hanging out on their back porch. Could he be any cuter in his hat? {This hat either came from Etsy or Kiki's good friend, Ashley...she'll have to tell us which} I sure hope his eyes stay blue like this...he'd be like his mommy and sissy. Ugh, I just want to kiss those cheeks, don't you?

Smile!

2010-09-24T07:00:00.021-05:00

Last week we had a 3 month photo shoot with Parker and a great local photographer, Ann Wade Parrish. Parker was a perfect little model and we had so much fun! Click the below picture for a preview!

Happy Friday!

Parker's Nursery

2010-09-20T07:00:00.002-05:00

Parker's nursery has been work in progress and I am still not really done but sharing his room with you is long overdue. Nearly everyone in my family had a part in Little P's room. I prefer things that have meaning in design and his room is full of sweet and funny memories already.

The vinyl bible verse above the crib was applied loving (er, painstakingly) by Sissy and Doc.

The framed print above the changing table was painted by Parker's great grandmother (my Gammie).

Check out the post about the changing table/dresser here and the lamp project here.

These bumper pads really deserve an entire blog post to themselves. My wonderfully fabulous mother (aka "Honey" to Parker) slaved over these bumper pads to get them just right (let's just say there is no "pattern" for square bumper pads that exist only in Kiki's head). Sissy and I spent hours in a fabric store in Atlanta coming up with all sorts of fabulous ideas and my poor mother was left to execute our complicated vision. An endless THANK YOU to Honey. It looks awesome. Perfect, in fact. I am forever indebted. :)

Oh - and don't worry, I have been informed this was a one time deal. I have used up my bumper pad favors. I think I drove my sweet mother to cursing with this little project. Hmmmm...maybe she'll change her mind by the time we are considering #2. Then again, maybe not.

How fabulous is the monogrammed window valance? That was another "Kiki vision" that I coerced Coco, Sissy and Doc to execute one afternoon (I was conveniently on bed rest and "instructing" from the couch). Check out Sissy's blogpost (courtesy of Doc) of this adventure here and here. Oh, and construction of this little wonder didn't end here...Honey spent a number of hours trying to get the monogrammed button in place. I believe a "thank you" is in order...I love my family!

As I write this post, I am reminded that it is a wonder my family still speaks to me! Oh, that's right...I am partly responsible for this sweet face...and magically I am forgiven. :)

Let me know what you think of Parker's room. I am not done...but I think my family is!

Introducing...

2010-09-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

I thought I would share with ya'll the birth announcement I did for Parker some weeks ago. I am so pleased with the way it turned out and I must give props to Melissa at RoxterDesigns (check out her Etsy shop) for the fabulous design! And Sissy gets all the credit for the sweet pictures of the little man. It is hard to believe Parker is 3 months today, does anyone else feel like life stands still at times then you look back and can't figure where it went?

A Lazy Afternoon...

2010-09-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

I took advantage of a recent lazy Sunday afternoon to do something a bit domestic...Coco was more than thrilled as my domestic occurrences are few and far between since the entrance into our world of our precious little one. While Coco was relaxing and Parker and Lucy were napping I dusted off my KitchenAid mixer and had a little therapy session. It is amazing how the simplest things can make you feel "familiar" again.

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

1 cup sugar

1 cup brown sugar

1 cup Crisco

2 eggs

1 tsp. vanilla

1 ½ cups flour

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. baking soda

3 cups oatmeal

6 oz. chocolate chips*

Mix sugars and Crisco. Add all other ingredients and mix well. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 13 minutes.

* I use twice as many chocolate chips than the recipe calls for (everyone needs more chocolate, right?).

**To make oatmeal raisin cookies (actually pictured above), I substitute 1-2 cups of raisins for the chocolate chips. I also add cinnamon and nutmeg to taste to the mixture before I add the oatmeal and raisins.

These babies didn't last long around our house. Sissy gave me this recipe years ago and I have adapted it to make Coco's favorite Oatmeal Raisin cookies. I hope you enjoy!

Chunky Monkey!

2010-09-09T07:00:00.001-05:00

I love to kiss these cheeks!

**You MUST head over to the Monogram Chick blog today and check out all of the adorable pictures of Mister Parker. His proud Momma LOVES his doting Aunt!**

Hello Fall!

2010-09-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

The weather was unbelievable over Labor Day weekend and we took every opportunity to enjoy it. We spent many hours on our new back porch watching football and racing. It got a little chilly Sunday night and I couldn't resist snapping a few pictures of sweet little Parker. I am really looking forward to fall!

2 months!

2010-09-06T14:14:00.001-05:00

This post is nearly 3 weeks late but better late than never right?! P's 2 month check up was a few weeks ago and overall he is doing really well. His "big boy" stats are below...

12 lbs, 6 ounces

23.5 inches long

He is growing like crazy and changing constantly, it is so much fun and challenging too! We figured out about the time Parker turned 2 months old that he is anemic, which is just another word for lots of doctor's appointments and expensive formula. :) Just kidding, er, sort of. After some trial and error the new formula is working really well for our little man. He is such a happy baby! His horrific diaper rash is gone and hasn't returned and he is sleeping better, too. I hate that he is anemic but it sure is nice to have some answers and work toward increasing his iron levels (which, unfortunately, has been a slow process). So if you think of us, pray for increasing iron!

You must check out the Monogram Chick blog, Sissy (aka Parker's aunt, MC, and my fabulous sister) is sharing a little project I coerced them into coming to town to help with - oh the fun! And a nursery post WILL HAPPEN this week - Sissy is showing me up, I must deliver!

Oh! and Happy Labor Day!

Wordless Wednesday....

2010-08-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

Reality bites

2010-08-02T11:47:00.000-05:00

Just so you know what I am up to...I will be spending the next 7 days soaking up this sweet face.

Because in exactly one week I have to go back to work. Back to reality. I am going to do my best not to dwell on the inevitable. I do enjoy my job and am eager to resume a more typical schedule but I just can't resist this face. I can't believe how quickly time has gone and how much my little man has grown and changed. Parker is 7 weeks old and so much fun, he has started smiling and grinning and he has even found his voice! I just can't help kissing those chunky little cheeks...

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

I couldn't have said it better myself. :)

One Month

2010-07-12T23:12:00.000-05:00

I cannot believe our little munchkin is already a month old, Parker is changing right before our eyes. I love to watch him sleep and listen to him coo. I thought I would share a few pictures of Parker I snapped today.

This picture was just too sweet not to share. We spend A LOT of time doing this these days. It's official - Coco and I are in love with our little boy.

Hello Again!

2010-07-07T22:42:00.001-05:00

It has taken me more than three weeks to get back to blogging. I've had one particular distraction lately...

Isn't he PRECIOUS?

Life as Parker's mommy is a whole new experience. It has been full of so many different moments and emotions, most of them so sweet. I will be the first to admit - being a mom is the hardest thing I have ever done. I have an undergraduate degree, a graduate degree and CPA certification and being a mother trumps them all. There is no book or manual that comes with a little bundle of joy and every baby is so different. The only thing you have are your innate parental instincts (and your dear family and friends!). So...for the last three weeks I have been developing those parental instincts (and making many phone calls for advice and help)!

Our little man is doing great, Coco and I are soaking up his sweet face! We learn more and more about Parker with each day. It is surreal to sit and stare at our little one and think that God created him just for us. We hold on to each moment (even the fussy ones!), he is already growing so fast I can't imagine how quickly time flies.

We went for Sweet P's three week appointment Tuesday and he is growing like a weed! Here are his current stats...

8 lbs, 9 oz. - he has gained almost 2 lbs since birth!

21.5 inches long - he has grown a whole inch!

I promise one of my next posts will be of Parker's nursery. My sweet mother was wrapping up the finishing touches the day we brought him home from the NICU!

**A very special thank you to MC for keeping the blog up to date with Parker's arrival and NICU stay. Parker loves his Auntie!

Since Kiki is Otherwise Engaged.....

2010-06-28T10:17:00.003-05:00

Kiki has her hands full these days. I guess I'll give her a break this time.....I posted this on my blog today and thought I'd ask her readers for help.

This little muchkin melts my heart. This is Parker, "Master P", my newbie nephew. He is 2 weeks old today and is absolutely Preshy Presherson. I cannot wait to get my hands on him again and nuzzle his sweet little face.

Now that I'm an auntie to Kiki's bebe, I need a name. I need an auntie name for Master P to know me by. My question for y'all, my darling chickadees is this....by what name to you call your aunts? I don't want to be Aunt Sarah....I want something else, something better. I've got one name in mind, but I'm not wholeheartedly committed to it and need your help. Pretty please? Many Thanks, Monogram Chick

Parker & Kiki Update via Monogram Chick

2010-06-16T12:48:00.003-05:00

Parker is here and SO STINKIN' CUTE! Both baby and mama are doing well. Looks like Kiki will be heading home sometime today. Parker gets an extended stay at Brookwood Hospital with luxury accommodations in the NICU. He has had a little trouble regulating his blood sugar so to keep an eye on the little guy they admitted him and are keeping a close eye on his levels before and after feedings. As of late this morning he was doing well and his blood sugar levels were good. We'll continue to pray for stabilization! They have "P-man" (every aunt needs a nick name for her nephew right?) hooked to an IV of fluids {Kiki said last night that the fluids had really "brightened" his coloring} and since his levels have been good they will slowly wean him off the fluids starting today.

As I said, he is so amazingly cute....here are a few pictures of infant eye candy!

He is here!

2010-06-14T20:49:00.003-05:00

Hey y'all! Monogram Chick blogging for Kiki again. Parker Riching Marshall was born late this afternoon weighing in at 6 pounds 12 ounces and measured 20.5 inches long. Kiki is doing well and enjoying a little quiet time while the fam grabs some much needed sustenance.

Today's The Day!

2010-06-14T13:29:00.011-05:00

Hey y'all this is (soon-to-be) Auntie Monogram Chick, and I have a Parker update!

Kiki went to the hospital last night and settled into her home away from home (LBD 3). As Kiki snuggled into her super fancy hospital bed Coco settled in next to her on what looked to me (via g-chat) like a rack of terror. According to the updates, I don't think either of them slept too well.

As of this morning, the pitocin was flowing and she was progressing well. Well enough that Kiki talked them into an epidural. She is now resting well.

The Dr. checked in around lunch time and the best estimates are that pushing will commence around 4:00 this afternoon.

As I know more, I will post and as soon as pictures are available I'll post them too. Right now Kiki is anti-camera and not allowing photography of her laboring self. Can't say I blame her. But this post would be way better with pics....I'mjustsayin.

****UPDATE****

Coco snapped a pic of soon-to-be Grandparentals with Kiki. She approved the photo for blog consumption. Speaking of consumption, Coco informed me he was snacking on cinnamon teddy grahams and Kiki was drooling over them as she smacked her gum. Poor Kiki.

****UPDATE2****
Just talked with Kiki. She is super composed for a chick that'll be birthin' a baby and minute now. The surgical team is setting up. Crowning is close and he is ready to make his debut!

Kiki with Coco's mama...another soon-to-be Grandparental as they await Parker's debut.

Here comes Parker!

2010-06-11T17:41:00.000-05:00

Well folks, Parker's time has come! My blood pressure is still elevated so my doctor has decided that the best thing for both me and Parker is to induce on Monday. We will go into the hospital Sunday night and induction will begin early Monday morning. I had a stress test and an ultrasound at the doctor on Thursday and Parker is a healthy little boy. They estimate him to be about 7.5 lbs (at 3 weeks early!) and definitely strong enough to endure the labor process. We would appreciate your thoughts and prayers as we journey through the next few days! I promise an announcement and a picture when our little man makes his debut!

The Big Reveal

2010-06-09T07:00:00.105-05:00

This post is embarrassingly overdue. I apologize. No excuse. Let's get on with it.

Back in February, we shared with you that we were embarking on a little home addition. Well, this home addition was officially finished May 6th and it is June 9th and I am finally posting all of the before and afters! We have kept you posted along the way with some updates and pictures in progress but I will do my best to "recap" our story here. {Some of the pictures aren't the best, I do apologize!}

Once upon a time, Kiki and Coco bought a small, ugly little house in a great area (location, location, location)...

We worked hard to spiff 'er up on our own...

But all the elbow grease in the world couldn't make this house BIGGER. So the construction began!

This last picture is the view from our existing "master" bedroom looking into the addition. Below is the same view pre-construction (I am so over that green color).

And the same view "after". We added about 50 square feet to our "master" bedroom, some much need light through two windows and gutted the existing closet into our new office nook (see picture below). The ceilings were scraped and crown molding and taller base boards were added.

Since we were a one bathroom house, a second bathroom was a necessity. We were able to add a significant amount of space onto the back of our house that includes a double vanity, very large two-head shower (it is to die for!), separate toilet room, his/hers closets and a laundry room.

The view from our master bedroom into the new bathroom

Laundry on the left, toilet room on the right

A good shot to give you an idea of the layout. Look in the mirror and you will see the shower and the doors to his/hers closets.

Have I mentioned I LOVE this shower?

Our previous laundry area was in our kitchen so when we relocated it to our master bathroom, it opened up all sorts of possibilities in our kitchen. Unfortunately I never took a before picture of our laundry area in the kitchen but please take my word for it, the after is fabulous in comparison. We moved a wall, added double doors to conceal our utilities, added two floor to ceiling cabinets for pantry space, a bench with storage, built-in shelves to maximize space and hide our microwave!

We are on the hunt for a round table, a fabulous mirror or artwork for above the bench and new chairs but all in due time.

Can't see the microwave, can you? Just a hint, it is below the red vase. Coco found a "little" black sharp microwave that suits our needs perfectly!

Last but not least we added a screened porch equipped with two fans, electrical plugs in the ceiling for outdoor heaters (coming this fall!), and most importantly a TV.

And the current view of the front of our house...we increased the roof line, painted the entire exterior, new front post and new shutters.

We absolutely love our new (and old) space, it has totally changed the way we live in our house. I am sure with the arrival of our little one that will change too, but for now we are so thrilled to have some more square footage! Hope you enjoyed the recap!

Country?

2010-06-08T07:00:00.000-05:00

I would never have described myself as "country"...but since I have some newly acquired time on my hands (and I am DESPERATE for some sittin' on my fanny entertainment), I picked up the latest copy of Country Living magazine at my neighborhood B&N. I was PLEASANTLY surprised by what I found. There is a wide array of styles and price points in this little magazine and their idea of "country" isn't the country this city girl envisioned! If you are uber contemporary in your style this may not be the mag for you, but you never know you just might want to check it out.

Now I do have a bit of a bone to pick with CL (yep, they call themselves CL so I think I will too). On page 18 they showcase a fabulous set of three mirrors for a mere $18 as their "Bargain of the Month" (very poor picture included below). Since I can't wait to get my little spray paint happy hands on them, I went to the source to place an order. I got nothing. The mag references Urban Outfitters but I cannot for the life of me find these babies on their website. So much of a bargain, they don't exist! Anyone else have any luck? Maybe I should write my new friends at CL... {Oh and for a totally random note on UO, they sell orange duct tape on their website - does anyone else find that really strange??}

All Things Green and Blue

2010-06-07T07:00:00.002-05:00

In early May some fabulous women generously threw a baby shower for me and Parker. I promised weeks ago to share the pictures and am finally making good on that promise. My sweet friends and sister are so fun, creative and fabulous - the shower was wonderful with sweet treats and so many creative decorations. My Mom, Aunt, Grandmother and Coco's mom all came to town for the festivities! We had a great time and received so many wonderful baby gifts!

The last pregnant pics of Kiki - so sorry but I am way to large to grace the blog these days!

Ashley made the diaper cake for Parker, isn't it adorable?

It even had fabulous MC items and a silver spoon engraved with "Parker"

All of the lovely ladies that hosted the special day

My sweet sister and Mom

My family that came a long way to celebrate

Parker's Grandmothers!

I had some fabulous pictures of some adorable gifts and the yummy goodies but I can't get Blogger to cooperate! A huge thank you to my dear friends for such a lovely party for me and my little man. I love you girls!

A little Parker update - so...my blood pressure is still up and my doctor put me on bed rest last Thursday. Oh what fun! Our sweet little boy is doing well, the bed rest is to force his very stubborn mama to park it on her fanny so her BP doesn't continue to rise. I thankfully am able to work from my couch. What a job Coco has keeping me planted! :) We covet your thoughts and prayers as we navigate these next days and weeks. I will be 37 weeks on Thursday and my doctor hinted that she might schedule an induction at any time if the BP stays up. I have full confidence in my doctor, but am a little anxious at the possibility of Parker arriving early! I head back to the doctor this morning and will keep everyone updated!

Macbeth Collection

2010-06-06T17:28:00.000-05:00

I think I need this. Scratch that...want it. Wouldn't it be precious in Parker's room in a much more muted design with his initials (because you can't have too many of those)? I could corral diapers, wipes and all sorts of handy little things in here. This adorable little tub is from The Macbeth Collection.

It is $52 with the monogram. Ouch. For a bucket. Maybe not.

Lamp Envy

2010-05-24T07:00:00.002-05:00

I found the most fabulous Jonathan Adler lamp for Parker's room that I simply do not want to live without...

...but I will. The $395 price tag is mystifying and appalling all at the same time. I haven't spent $400 on a lamp anywhere in my home let alone an infant's room! The lamp really is fabulous (I heart giraffes) but I couldn't even consider it (can we say STROLLER?). Instead Coco and I came up with a way to repurpose a lamp we already had.

We scoured the toy aisles of our neighborhood Target for an appropriate "filler" for this glass lamp that used to hold golf balls and golf tees in our "office". Coco spied these wooden blocks for $15 and we knew it would be perfect. I love the way it turned out and it only took Coco 10 minutes to do the switcheroo. So, until we win the lottery I will stick with our repurposed cutie patootie lamp but I will definitely dream of the gorgeous, childlike yet sophisticated JA giraffe one!

Update...

2010-05-21T07:00:00.003-05:00

This post is long overdue and will probably cover many topics! Be prepared for pregnant brain randomness. First things first - I mentioned the last time I blogged that I was super excited about my upcoming baby shower. It did not disappoint, it was so special and so much fun! And while a full blown post is coming soon, a little sneak peak is available on MC's blog here. Check it out!

Our addition is officially complete! It was actually official May 6th (just in time for all of our visitors for baby shower weekend!). A few pictures to wet your appetite (hee hee) and another promise for a more in depth post soon.

Our humble abode. The roofline was extended, new shutters, new paint, less grass. :)

Master Bathroom

"His" Closet

Enlarged Master Bedroom looking into new bathroom

These pictures are not up to my standards (lighting is all wrong, bamboo shades are down, pillows are not fluffed, superfluous items on the bed - just to name a few) but I thought it was too cruel not to give you at least something after three months of teasing (and my house is in no shape for picture taking today). We are still moving things around and collecting items for our new space, always a work in progress! We made some changes in the kitchen and the screened in porch is just fabulous. I promise to include some pics of those spaces soon.

I have had a few inquiries about paint colors so I have included the colors we used below:

Master bedroom/Parker's room - Sherwin Williams Woolskein

Master bath - Sherwin Williams City Loft

Exterior of house - Benjamin Moore Rockport Gray

Parker's room is coming along slowly but surely. I anxiously await the crib bumpers my Mom has been so diligently working on. I think I will have them in a few days! In the mean time, I thought I would share the little dresser project we worked on this past weekend. My parents generously gave us a piece of furniture they have been storing in their attic that was just the perfect size for Parker's room. His room is small so we had to have something that multitasked as a dresser and a changing table. The finish on the dresser was not quite our style so we made a few changes...

BEFORE

AFTER

I love the airplane and dump truck knobs I found at Hobby Lobby and spray painted to coordinate (you know my affinity for the spray paint :))

What do you think of the transformation? We must give major credit to our faithful friend, Donnie, who was nice enough to strip and stain the top for us after we called in an amateur panic! There are lots of finishing details to be done...a monogrammed (of course) cornice for the window, waiting on frames for the artwork, vinyl wording above his crib just to name a few. It will all come together eventually!

Speaking of Lil P, I went for my 34 week appointment yesterday and my blood pressure is up. Yep, my easy going pregnancy has hit a bit of a snag. After three hours at the doctor's office/hospital, I had blood work done, an ultrasound to check fluid levels (and catch a sneak peak of our little man!), and a Contraction Stress Test (THAT was interesting). All tests checked out normal and our little Parker is doing well and responding appropriately. My doctor will be seeing me a bit more often now (twice a week) to check up on things and make sure all is well. We are praying this spike in BP is an isolated event and we can keep him marinading just a bit longer. Thankfully my activity has yet to be restricted (the Lord is GOOD) however I am trying to be good and rest as much as possible when I am at home. Coco is quite the caregiver, I affectionately refer to him as my warden. He is so concerned for his wifey and son and I am very thankful for his sweet love. There is nothing to fret over yet (read that twice Mom) but we would love it if you would keep us in your prayers as we navigate the next few weeks.

Whew. If you are still reading, I thank you. Sorry for the long post! I will update again soon!

Where oh where have my brain cells gone?

2010-05-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

A while back I shared with you my first official pregnancy brain moment when I left my sandwich at the Schlotzsky's drive thru. Ugh. Well, I have entered the point of no return when it comes to losing brain cells. My latest feat this week was turning on our home alarm so that it would greet our poor plumber with a loud siren when he used the key (yep, the one I left for him right BEFORE I set the alarm) to get into our home. Many phone calls with the alarm company and more than one (yep, you read right) incident within a 2 hour time span of setting off the alarm for the entire neighborhood to experience and we got things straightened out. Or should I say Coco straightened things out. Poor Coco. The same day I managed to leave work heading for the grocery store and instead I drove home. Ugh. This is painful. I don't like losing my brain. I was so proud of it before. Oh how the Lord humbles me.

32 weeks and counting! We can't wait for Parker's arrival. He still needs to marinade for a bit longer but I am definitely ready to meet him and cuddle him and kiss him. I guess I should pack a bag for the hospital...now what to put in it...

Etsy Find!

2010-05-06T07:00:00.001-05:00

Life is crazy 'round here. We are furnishing, decorating and trying to get life back to normal these days. Whatever normal may be! I wanted to take a minute to share one of my latest Etsy purchases. I have to credit MC with this purchase, it was really her find (thanks seester!). Check out our wall in our new little office nook...

Aren't these fabulous? So sorry for the poor picture quality - not sure what was going on here. LittleBlueBirdStudios has these really neat Vintage Dictionary Art prints. There are many, many to choose from and are super affordable art - especially when popped into Ikea Ribba frames like I did above. With our new space and furniture placement, our walls are very bare so interesting art on the cheap is key right now. Any of you have any great resources you lurve?

Oh! And I must share that I can't wait for this weekend. I have a baby shower here in Birmingham and am so excited! My mom, MC, aunt, grandmother and Coco's mom are all coming into town for it. I can't wait to share pictures. And don't worry - those finished pictures of our addition are coming soon. I will get over my bare walls and unfinished decorating and finally snap some pics for you.

Happy Thursday!

Fit for a King...and Queen

2010-04-28T07:00:00.001-05:00

I HEART my new closet. I have never had a walk in closet. Ever. My heart sings every time I walk into it. Organization AND space? Queue the singing chorus. Pitter-pat.

His and Hers

Aren't they beautiful? Ok, enough about that. It seems so petty to be so excited over something like this but I just can't help it. Closets aren't eternal, neither are screened in porches or throw pillows. These things have seemed oh so important the last few months. Becoming parents has far greater impact but seems just out of reach right now. Oh the joy is coming and I know it will be here before we know it and probably before we are ready!

We moved into our closets this weekend and are not quite ready for the "after" photo shoot. :) A big thank you to MC and Dr. Niles for coming over to help a sister (and brother) out!

Happy Wednesday to all!

Before and After...a teaser

2010-04-20T07:00:00.001-05:00

MUCH progress was made at our little home over the weekend but we aren't quite able to move everything back in yet. We were able to move some furniture in on Friday night so we are officially residents of our new and improved Master bedroom and bath. We now await the completion of the closets and kitchen pantry this week to begin the real fun. :) I thought I would share a picture of the front of our house (as it looked Sunday evening). But first, a trip down memory lane...

Our house the very day we bought it 5 fateful years ago...there is so much I could say here but I think this picture says it all - "What were we thinking?". Thank you, Coco, for being so willing to see my vision. :)

Our house this past fall after we spent 5 years updating along the way...new windows, new front door, painted shutters, landscaping, etc.

And our house this past Sunday...

Not the best picture angle and our grass, well...it needs some TLC (Coco is waking up early every morning in an attempt to water it back to life after being trampled for nearly 3 months), but we are making progress. I promise to post a better pic in the days ahead but I wanted to share!

What do you think of the color? After many agonizing hours (selecting an exterior house color is daunting!), we landed on a Benjamin Moore color called Rockport Gray (HC-105) with Black Board and Batten shutters.

Stay tuned for more!

Moving on in!

2010-04-16T23:21:00.000-05:00

We are moving in! Yep, you read it. Moving into our new space! There are still quite a few finishing touches to be completed but we got the green light to begin moving furniture. It is oh so exciting. The last details we hope will be finished by the end of the weekend. My little "nesting" heart is going pitter-pat just typing it. I can't wait to share some final pictures but think I will wait until the furniture is in so stay tuned. I promise not to tease much longer. :)

Have I mentioned how much I lurve my new washer and dryer? It is amazing how quickly it washes and dries the largest of loads. LG makes one fabulous product. I have been working those suckers over time lately - okay, I admit, the thought of bringing home baby means EVERYTHING must be washed of "construction grime". I mean, everything. I think I washed blankets we have never used. Yep, I am nuts. Pregnant and crazy. Confirmed. Admitting it is the first step, right?

Speaking of admitting things...I have cankles. There. I said it. Cankles. You know, when your calf and your ankle become one? It looks especially fabulous in a dress. Thank you Parker. My sweet little boy is causing his momma some swelling. Oh thank heaven for flip flops. Any suggestions to help or even reduce this type of swelling? Coco keeps telling me to put my feet up. But how can I do fifteen loads of laundry and organize underneath my new bathroom sink all propped up? Hmmmm...I don't see this going well.

Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-14T07:00:00.003-05:00

Well, not so wordless. I have to say a million thank yous to Coco's wonderful parents for keeping our little Lucy for nearly a month. This renovation has been pretty intrusive to our household so Lucy went to stay with her grandparents. She had a fabulous time with Rocky (the resident Boxer) and is downright exhausted (as you can see pictured above - taken Sunday night). I am sure she saw more activity in one month than she usually sees all year at our quiet little house! Thanks again for keeping such good care of our first baby!

April already?

2010-04-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

Scratch that...April 12th already? I mean, wow, where does the time go? I can't believe what a horrible blogger I have been. I really have no good excuse. Too tired? Too busy? Too distracted? Out of town? While all of those excuses seem to apply these days, none of them sound really legitimate. I will simply apologize and get on with blogging already...

The past few weeks have been filled with activity. Everything from our home reno project to vacation to hanging out with friends. Let's talk about vacation! We managed to slip away for a few days last week and spend some time on Lake Oconee in Georgia with my family. It was 5 glorious days of lounging around and relaxing. Five VERY needed days...for both Coco and me. A special thank you to my sweet parents for allowing us the opportunity to be vegetables. :)

Our little home addition is coming to a close. There are lots of small items to be finished up and we hope that these will be complete in another week. The nesting phase of my pregnancy has set in and I am ready to get organized and move into our new space. Parker's nursery furniture is scheduled to be delivered Thursday and we hope to move much of our belongings out of storage this weekend. I can't wait! The addition is beautiful and I can't wait to share some final pictures. In the mean time, I have a few shots of our recently (as in Saturday afternoon) finished screened porch. It is wonderfully relaxing space, there is lots of decorating to be done out there but we pulled this together in a pinch to host some dear friends for a cookout Saturday night (can we say fire drill?).

What do you think of the patio furniture we scored off Craigslist?

Coco was planted out here from 4:00 Saturday until late Sunday night soaking up all he could of The Masters and car racing.

I hope you have a fabulous week! More blogging to come this week - a few shots from our vacation including the Masters practice round we attended!

Oh - and speaking of Parker, I had my 28 week appointment last week (yes, third trimester -- I can't believe it!) and he seems to be cooking just right. Please pray for a smooth last trimester for both me and Parker.

Dumpster Diving!!!!

2010-03-31T23:09:00.000-05:00

Kiki and I thought we'd share some of the latest photo's from the past couple of days. Thanks again to Mike (our friend/contractor) who helped us get the carpet in, and did a little dumpster diving to level out the dumpster. Since we were a TAD over on the fill level...Sorry Shelli. Kiki and I were carefully monitoring him and we can see where Graham gets his sense of adventure...

Mike & the Dumpster

Newly Painted House Color...Rockport Gray

Trim and Touch up scheduled for tomorrow

New Vanity with Sconces

Plumbing slated to be finished tomorrow

Light Fixture in the Master

New Washer/Dryer...For Parker's clothes. I think it's been used nightly so far. They're awesome.

Can you believe the progress? More to come soon!!!

Coco

Baby Shower Bonanza Part ME!

2010-03-27T07:00:00.001-05:00

Coco and I spent last weekend in Florida on a mini-Spring Break. The weather was fabulous and it was so nice to get away from the construction zone otherwise known as our home. I am so thankful that God doesn't give us more than we can handle and He so perfectly orchestrated this trip out of town at the right time. Another night in the middle of our mess and it might have been more than I could bear. Oh the sweet, sweet love of Jesus and a girl's parents! The reason for our trip to the sunshine state was my first baby shower! My sweet aunt, grandmother and my mom's dear friends were so gracious and kind to host a shower for me and Parker that included all of the wonderful people that watched me grow up. It was so much fun to see everyone and share our blessing. We were overwhelmed by all of the wonderful people and gifts - it was too much! I included a few pictures from the day below! For those of you who are DYING to see me with child here's your chance...and don't plan on many of these opportunities! :)

Here it is...the side shot. Don't expect any more.

These were mini carrot cupcakes (my fave) that were scrumptious!

We do love a monogram :)

Isn't this diaper cake so cute? Made for Parker by his Great-Granny

Our sweet friends from Jacksonville that drove all that way!

Sasha was so sweet to share words of Motherly wisdom

My dear friend, Briana - due in August with TWIN boys!

My fabulous Mom

Thank you so much to Aunt Linda, Granny, Ms. Tina, Mrs. Sweet, Ms. Susie and Ms. Becky for hosting such a fabulous shower! And thank you Mom and Dad for taking care of your little girl - it was a MUCH needed long weekend away.

Name this...

2010-03-26T07:00:00.001-05:00

So...its about time we shared with you what we are going to call our little tyke. If you can't tell we are some serious planners so it should come as no surprise (especially those of you who know us personally) that as soon as we walked out of that fateful 20 week ultrasound, our little one was named. Yep. We are THAT couple. Coco and I had a boy and girl name picked probably before we were pregnant with our little guy {you know that planning thing I was talking about - we had been "planning" to start a family for a while and God gave us a little time to make sure we were properly "planned" :)}.

I could drag this out for days and give you small hints but that would be cruel and, well, my creative juices are currently being sucked out by the life growing inside me. So without further delay, we are so excited to introduce the world to Parker Riching Marshall. Coming early Summer!

*Two things to note - yes, we are aware our son has three last names - we thought one just wasn't enough. :) They are all family names and we love that Parker's name means so much to us. He is already a special little boy and his name should be no exception!

While we were away...

2010-03-22T22:46:00.001-05:00

Hello All...
We are back in town from the baby shower in Florida. It apparently went very well according to Kiki and Mimi (Kiki's mom). Pics from the shower will follow over the next couple of days after we get caught up from the cleaning and re-organiztion of the house. Lots has happened since we've been gone: Tile, Trim, Doors Installed, Dust (thanks tile guys), etc..therefore Kiki and I spent most of the afternoon trying to locate our furniture under the layer of dust and soot. The painting begins and the project continues tomorrow through this weekend where the inside of the house should be painted. I did manage to snap a few shots of the latest progress...

Slate Tile Floor

Shower - Subway Pattern with Pebbled Floor

View of Shower from straight on

Pebbled Shower Floor with Shower Seat

New Five Panel Doors Throughout the House...Kiki's Favorite part of the addition

More pics will follow later in the week. Especially the baby shower pics! Thanks again Greg and Marcia for hosting us this weekend. We had a great time and are both exhausted from the trip. Have a great week everyone...

Coco

Leaving on a jet plane...

2010-03-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

Coco and I are headed to Lakeland for a long weekend...and my first baby shower!

It's official...

2010-03-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

I have baby brain. Yep. I have crossed the threshold. It's only just begun. While I was out running errands on my lunch hour yesterday, I picked up lunch. Or so I thought. I got my drink, my check card, receipt and pulled out of the sandwich drive through...without my sandwich! I got all the way to the office (at least 2 or 3 miles) and realized I had no lunch. Imagine my sheepish grin when I pulled back to the drive thru window and asked for the sandwich I left. Geez.

On a more intelligent note, progress is going well here at the house. :) We have sheetrock and the tile and carpentry are starting this week. It has been a flurry of paint colors and grout selection around here. Pictures to come soon I promise!

Sneak peak...the nursery

2010-03-08T07:00:00.001-06:00

In the midst of all that is going on around here, Coco and I managed to make time to work in a little nursery shopping. We have picked out some fabric and my sweet mother has offered to make all of the bedding for our little boy's room. Here's a little sneak peak of the fabric, crib and chair for the nursery.

The chair will be in Chocolate twill

Whatcha think? Next on the list is lighting, artwork and organization!

Register this.

2010-03-05T06:43:00.001-06:00

So, it is that time for us in our "with child" journey to begin the registry process. This is an incredibly daunting task for those of us who are not at all well versed in all things baby (have I mentioned my breakdown the first time I stepped foot in BabiesRus?). Help. Please. What items can you not live without? Is there one thing that made your life that much easier? What is a waste of money? I know that most of these things are very personal decisions but I would love your feedback. Please help a hormonal pregnant woman make some decisions!

More progress...

2010-03-03T06:00:00.001-06:00

Things continue to move at a rapid pace in our backyard. In the last five days progress has continued. I am so thankful to see changes each day, I just can't wait to be able to "nest" in the new space! A few pictures from this week...

"Beefing" up the front post

Screened porch...without the screens

The view from the bedroom into the addition

Shower!

Let's recap where we are in the process.

Foundation...check.
Framing...check
Roof and shingles...check.
Plumbing...check.
Electrical...check.
Screened porch...built all but the "screens".
HVAC...in progress.
Windows...should be installed today.Siding...will be finished as soon as the windows are installed.
Insulation and sheetrock...slated to start Friday or Monday.

Coco and I spent some time this past weekend considering paint colors for the interior and exterior of our house. My head is swimming...have I mentioned decisions have become EXTREMELY difficult for me these days? Poor Coco, he is so wonderfully patient.

More to come!

What happens in Vegas...

2010-03-02T19:04:00.000-06:00

will be completely sober. :) I am heading to Las Vegas for a conference for work for the rest of the week. Not exactly the best place for a woman that is 23 weeks pregnant. Let's just say I am not exactly looking forward to this trip. Although, I just might have to make a spa appointment...at the Bellagio. Hmmmm...

Coco will have to keep me posted on the house progress from afar. Be back soon with some updates!

Progress!

2010-02-25T06:37:00.000-06:00

Things have been moving very quickly around here. Let me remind you what our humble little backyard looked like on Monday, February 8th...

And this is what things looked like Saturday, February 21st...

Crazy, isn't it? Yep, your eyes aren't fooling you...

Foundation...check.
Framing...check
Roof and shingles...check.
Plumbing...in progress
Electrical...in progress (should be finished today!)
Siding...working on it as I type (yes, it is 6:29 a.m. and they are already here!)

Sheetrock is slated to start on Monday. We can't believe how quickly things are moving! We are so thankful but it sure has required a lot of decisions in the last two weeks! Have I mentioned that I think decisions are twice as hard when your sane hormones have abandoned your body? Just making sure you are aware in case you too decide to start an addition 5 months pregnant. Coco is VERY aware. :) I'll be back with some pictures of the inside soon!

Editor's Note: As I reread my post I apologize for the overuse of periods. :)

Introducing...

2010-02-19T07:00:00.002-06:00

Price Andrew Caudell

I was not a very good blogger in December when this little bundle of joy entered into the world so I just had to share him now. I recently received Jordan's birth announcement and since it is so fabulous it was a great excuse to share him with you! He is a healthy baby boy and growing like a weed! He's a great snuggler, too. :)

Isn't he precious?

Fixture this...

2010-02-18T07:00:00.000-06:00

Here's a sneak peak into a few of the items we have selected to put in our brand spanking new master bath {I can't help but smile just typing it! I never thought a second bathroom would bring such joy}.

After MUCH deliberation and a dizzying trip to the most amazing (and fabulously reasonable!) flooring place in Atlanta, Floor & Decor Outlet, we selected our tile for the new space. The entire floor in the bathroom will be black slate and the shower walls and ceiling is a beautiful white carrera marble with a stone pebble floor. I can't wait to step my little tootsies into the shower every morning!

Internet shopping is great (and you can find awesome deals!) but sometimes hard to get your arms around. I am a touch it, feel it, see it kind of girl. Coco was a great resource and found so many great fixtures (all our finished will be chrome regardless of what you see in the picture below).

So, what do you think so far? Can you see our vision yet? Next up - pick a soothing, light paint color for the space...

The Addition has begun!

2010-02-17T07:00:00.001-06:00

Things have really picked up at our casa in the last week. Below is a picture of the back of our house right before the construction commenced...

And here it is not even a week later...

And today the framing starts! We are so excited to see the progress. We have been warned that it will look like things are happening quickly at first and then it will taper off a bit. In the mean time we are ecstatic to see all of the progress. Even in the midst of a few snow fall events!

A sneak peak of our driveway last night...this definitely got the neighbors talking!

It's a...

2010-02-12T08:07:00.000-06:00

BOY!!!!!!

Coco and I are super excited! He is healthy and growing strong!

Patience is a virtue...

2010-02-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

Apparently the blogosphere thinks bows and tutus are in our future (check out the poll in the upper left hand corner)! I can't wait to find out if you are right or wrong! I know that the timing of finding out the sex of your child is a VERY personal thing and not everyone has the same opinion, but I am super anxious to know! Thursday cannot get here fast enough. Is it just me or is this week d-r-a-g-g-i-n-g on? Patience is apparently a virtue that I need to work on because I am pretty sure mine has run out!

Adding on...

2010-02-08T07:00:00.004-06:00

You've read that Coco and I are adding on to our family, but we have also decided to keep life interesting by adding on to our little home! Why let it rain when it can pour? I think we are crazy. It sure will be interesting. Let's just pray I keep my sanity (and that Coco can exhibit a supernatural amount of patience with his psychotic wife). It would be an understatement to say that I don't do "messy" well {I am sure that right now MC is reading this with a smirk on her face}, I don't even do "untidy" well. I have mentioned I am neurotic - most of this relates to my home. I straighten the pillows on the couch before I go to bed every night. There are no dishes left in the sink - ever. I like neat AND clean. I know, I know...those of you with children feel sorry for me. My world is about to be rocked. Hard. I guess this little home addition project will be good practice for the MAJOR addition in July. I am officially out of control (now, I know I have never been in control however God is REALLY making His point now. I am so thankful He is faithful because I am most certainly a work in progress!).

With that said, Coco and I have spent the better part of the last few weeks purging, donating, trashing and storing. We have cleaned out closets and moved all of the furniture out of our master bedroom and "office" (soon-to-be nursery) to a 10x10 storage unit. Let the fun begin...

The current state of our master bedroom - the wall with the window...soon to be demolished. :)

I guess by now you are wondering what we are adding on. Our house is currently a 3 bedroom, 1 bath abode nestled in about 1,000 square feet (those of you with children who didn't feel for me before - you do now!). Since we love where we live and most things about our home we decided in order to stay here a while we need a bit more space. In 8-10 weeks we will have a slightly larger master bedroom with a master bathroom, his/her closets, laundry room and screened-in back porch. Yippee!! I can't wait for the end result. I will be waiting patiently in the guest bedroom. Right in the middle of the dust, er, action. :)

I do love design and Coco and I are having fun picking out bathroom fixtures and paint colors. Oh, and nursery decor! We are sure to not be without excitement and exhaustion. I will keep everyone posted along the way!

Boy or Girl?

2010-01-29T07:00:00.000-06:00

Two weeks and counting until we find out whether the little one growing inside me is a boy or a girl (provided our little bambino behaves)! To commemorate this exciting event, I added a poll on the side bar to start the wagering. Let us know your vote! We will be sure to reveal our findings after the ultrasound!

Made in Mexico

2010-01-27T07:00:00.001-06:00

On one of our many trips around the country in the last year, Coco purchased a Garden and Gun magazine in the airport. I know this doesn't sound earth shattering - especially since he does neither...that is neither garden nor gun. I think the slight streak of Georgia redneck left in him urged him to make the fateful purchase. Why is this so special that I must bring it up now? This particular G&G publication held an article on Mexican Coke. What in the world is Mexican Coke you ask (with bated breath I'm sure)? According to Coco it is the sweetest nectar this side of the Mississippi. Mexican Coke is made with good ole cane sugar not the high fructose corn syrup produced in the US of A these days. Ever since he read this article, we have been on a tear to locate these goods. Coco spotted (hmmm...I believe it was more like stalked) them at a local Mexican market and at $2.50 per 12 oz bottle they are a sweet treat {For what its worth coming from a die hard DC addict, I must say the Mexican version is WAY better - almost palatable}. Imagine Coco's glee (and my relief - no more slinking into the Mexican market on the questionable side of town) when we located this sweet stuff at our local Costco this weekend. Yep, you read right, after ~~eating~~ wandering through the aisles of our neighborhood Costco we stumbled upon the sweet nectar. Two cases later - yep, 48 bottles of Mexican coke - at only $18 a case (for those mathematicians out there that is less than $1 a bottle...what a deal) we were barreling towards home to get them chilling in the fridge.

Oh the things that excite us these days. I guess its the little things that make life sweet. Anything for my Coco. :)

Birthday Bash

2010-01-26T07:00:00.000-06:00

Coco turned 30 on the 14th of this month and we celebrated with a little get-together at his favorite restaurant, Cantina. Coco's parents and my parents traveled to Birmingham for the occasion! It was a great weekend with family (MC and Dr. Chick came too!) and friends. A few photos from the celebration!

B (Coco's Dad) and Coco

Dr. Chick and MC

Ethan and MC

Jordan, Wes and Jo (Coco's mom)

The Riching women :)

Gdaddy and me

Jared and Mere

Coco, Donnie and William

Kate - admiring my baby bump :)

So I got a little picture happy...I felt the need to document Coco's milestone!

Baby Shower Bonanza Part 3

2010-01-21T07:00:00.008-06:00

I have some precious friends expecting and having babies and have been able to share in their baby shower fun over the last six months! About a week and a half ago, I helped host a shower for my sweet friend Ashley. Ashley and Matt are expecting a little girl, Brooklyn Elizabeth, in just three weeks. We had so much fun at her shower and Ashley received some ADORABLE things. I cannot wait to meet Brooklyn! Check out her fabulous nursery!

The beautiful Mommy to be!

Aren't these little cookie favors adorable?

Eleanor hung out with us while she waited on Dr. Dad to pick her up. (Isn't she too cute here with her mom Marlee?)

I HEART these!

Marlee made this fabulous diaper bag for Ashley...I think I need to put in my own order for one!

I also got to make my first baby GIRL diaper cake. It was so much fun finding little girlie things to decorate with. Of course I got some items from MC - a cute little diaper cover and a preppy burp cloth. I also picked up some cute hair bows, frilly socks and passies!

Thanks for letting me share in your joy Ashley!

**Click here for Baby Shower Bonanza Part 1 and Part 2.

And baby makes THREE!

2010-01-20T07:00:00.000-06:00

Yep. You read it. Coco and I are expecting our own little bundle of joy July 1st! We feel so blessed (and scared!) to become parents. Needless to say we are VERY excited and cannot wait to meet our little one. I am about 17 weeks now and all looks good so far. Hopefully this announcement will help explain my absence from the blogosphere for the past few months. While I have felt really good (thank you Lord for no nausea or "morning sickness"), I have been plagued by exhaustion (I know many fellow mommies to be can relate). Up until about a week ago there weren't too many nights I would make it past 8 pm (Coco says even that is generous!). Since I work full time and my blogging only happens at night it was the first to go in exchange for a snuggly spot on the couch right next to Lucy. :) I feel I am turning the corner on the tiredness so back to blogging work!

Coco and I are major planners so I will keep you posted on all things baby that are happening at our house. The next big milestone will be our 20 week ultrasound when we will make sure our little one is growing in all the right ways and we will find out if we need to start purchasing footballs or tutus! Any guesses?

Below is a picture of our first ultrasound where we heard the beautiful sound of our baby's heartbeat. It is an amazing thing and something I look forward to at EVERY appointment. (So sorry for the poor picture quality - it was taken with my Crackberry :))

I am so glad ya'll will be around to join us on this adventure! We covet your prayers for our growing family!

Happy Birthday Coco!

2010-01-14T07:00:00.004-06:00

I know I sound like a broken record these days, but even though my blogging has been seriously lacking lately, the day cannot begin without blogging about my sweet husband. My best friend and the love of my life celebrates his 30th Birthday today! Coco is the spice in my life, the calm to my craziness, laughter in my most stressful moments. Faithful, loyal, loving, thoughtful, kind and hysterically funny (just ask him for his rendition of "Milkshake" - he prefers to perform in the shower). He is the perfect and only one for me. I thank God everyday that He orchestrated our relationship, I cannot imagine my life without him.

In honor of his 30th birthday, I thought I would share a photo that is 6 years old that was taken on our honeymoon in Monterey, CA (don't we look like babies?).

I can't wait to celebrate 30 more with you sweets!

Happy Birthday Mom!

2010-01-01T17:44:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday to my beautiful Mother! She is a New Year's baby and I personally think her birthday is the best way to start off every year. Unfortunately we were not together on her day but I was sure to call her and sing her "Happy Birthday" (I am sure she was thrilled - she did NOT give me any sort of singing ability). She is such a special woman, I can't imagine my life without her. She is not just the woman who gave birth to me but one of my best friends, my prayer warrior, and often my voice of reason. She is the ultimate servant, a character trait I strive to emulate. Here's to you, Mom! I love you!

Happy Birthday Dad!

2009-12-21T07:00:00.000-06:00

I must take a few sentences on his special day to share with you what makes my Dad so special to me. He is my advisor, my strong shoulder, my teacher, my encourager and my friend. I don't know what I would do without him. I love you very much. Enjoy your day!

Sweater me not.

2009-12-18T07:00:00.000-06:00

I just had to share this. It has been really chilly here in Birmingham the last few weeks so Coco pulled Lucy's sweater out to keep her warm. She usually does really well and loves to snuggle up in it. After a few hours it gets a little old so she wiggles her way out. This picture was snapped mid-wiggle. Coco and I were laughing so hard at her walking around the house "stripping" her sweater. Not two minutes after this was taken the sweater lay in the middle of the kitchen floor. Lucy's sweater "strip" was successful!

How can you not love this face?

A little Christmas Cheer

2009-12-17T07:00:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas everyone! While I have been VERY behind getting into the Christmas spirit, I did manage to get my tree up (thank you Coco!) a little over a week ago. I am almost done shopping and I even wrapped some presents this week (see - they are under the tree)! My plan is to be a baking fool this weekend...I do love to bake this time of year. Mostly because I like to eat, but ya'll already knew that. :)

I still have a few more presents to buy...I find I leave the hardest for last, why is that? Has anyone found such a fabulous gift they must share with the rest of us? I am definitely open for some inspiration!

Catching Up...again

2009-12-15T21:10:00.005-06:00

Wow. I am a terrible blogger. I feel like I should reintroduce myself. In case you forgot who I am, check out this post. I am remiss. I apologize. I thought I would be better than this. This season has caught up with me. Oh I hope to keep my promises.

So a lot has occurred in the life of Kiki and Coco since mid-November (the last time I really blogged). I will try to keep this brief (ha!) and give you a rundown...

MC and I took a road trip to Florida for a MonogramChick Trunk Show at my parent's house. So much fun to be home even if it meant that getting there would take 8 or more hours. Long story. And long ride. But nice to spend it with MC. Let's just say our little trip involved lots of DC and these...

Is anyone else addicted to these this time of year? Here are a few pics from our trip...a few of all of MC's merchandise spread all over the house and some from a fun family dinner (thanks dad!). We had a great time, way too short but so wonderful to be together.

Mom and MC...aren't they beautiful?

Dad and me

Thanksgiving with the Marshalls! Coco and I spent Thanksgiving with his family in Macon and it was definitely not without entertainment! We had a great time visiting. Coco's mom, Jo, worked so hard to prepare a scrumptious meal. We arrived Wednesday night and Thursday morning I helped with some last minute food prep. One of those items was the turkey. Let me be clear and state that neither Jo or I had ever cooked a turkey. This became apparent when Coco's Aunt Molly discovered upon removal from the oven that the turkey had been cooked upside down! It literally fell apart in the pan, it was hilarious! It was actually really tasty since all of the yummy white meat cooked on the bottom with all of the juices. Who knew??? We spent nearly an hour texting pictures to everyone we know, this is one infamous turkey!

Me and Jo...I love this picture.

Pulled turkey for Thanksgiving anyone? Anyone have any crazy Thanksgiving stories?

Happy Birthday MC!

2009-12-04T17:22:00.005-06:00

Okay, I know I have been a terrible blogger lately - its been more than two weeks! Life is crazy around here. I vow to do better. What better way to start back than to wish my beautiful sister a happy birthday today? I don't know what I would do without her. I wish her a day full of pampered moments and lots of DC and Christmas nougat. :)

Happy Birthday to MC, my very best friend and my fabulous sister!

I can't wait to see you tomorrow to celebrate! Oh, and I apologize for the sub par pic...I am ill-equipped today. And for my blogger buddies, December is busy month for us - lots of birthdays and holiday celebrations so stay tuned! I will even have that giveaway I have been teasing ya'll about!

Sick...

2009-11-19T19:50:00.000-06:00

...that's me. All week. Be back soon.

A little Christmas Spirit

2009-11-16T07:00:00.000-06:00

I am on the email list for Better Homes and Gardens 100 Days of Holidays and I love to get the email each day to get inspired for the season. I wanted to share some inspiration I came across last week. I love a beautiful table setting, I think I come by it honestly. My mom is an amazing hostess and never leaves a detail undone. Not only is her holiday table beautiful the food displayed on it is fabulous as well. Oh to be like her. For those of us that need a little, er, a lot of help, check out these stunning rooms.

All photos are courtesy of bhg.com

Do you have any fabulous table decor ideas for your table? What is the one holiday decoration you cannot live without?

A road trip...or two.

2009-11-12T07:00:00.000-06:00

Coco arrived back in town just in time to turn himself around and drive with me to Atlanta. Coco's dad, B, is having surgery today and we are in Atlanta spending time with him and Coco's mom at the hospital. Please keep B in your prayers that the surgery is successful and all goes well. We love you B and hope you are back at it soon!

We are in the ATL until Friday when Coco and I go our separate ways (again). Boo. I am headed (by way of car...yikes) to Florida with MC. She is having her Annual Trunk Show & Open House for monogramchick.com at our parent's house in Lakeland, Florida. It should be a fun and exhausting weekend!

It'll be a whirlwind few days between Atlanta and Florida. I am looking forward to it all and I promise to take many pictures and share them with you next week!

Pumpkin Spice Bread

2009-11-11T07:00:00.001-06:00

Another great recipe that I made this weekend (so I guess I spent some time in the kitchen). This is super easy and not at all bad for you!

Pumpkin Spice Bread

1 box Spice Cake Mix

1-15oz. can pure Pumpkin

A few shakes of pumpkin pie spice

Mix all three ingredients together (I usually beat with a handmixer for a minute or two) and bake according to the cake mix directions. You can make lots of mini muffins, a bundt cake or a loaf with just one recipe.

It is delish. And only three ingredients, no eggs, butter or oil! Budget and waistline friendly. :) I like to make it Sunday afternoon and cut it up in sections to eat for breakfast all week. A cup of coffee and some Pumpkin Spice bread...yummy!

Catching Up

2009-11-09T18:10:00.010-06:00

I know, I know. Long time, no blog. I think I have blogger's block. Does that exist? Or maybe life has been too boring to share lately. Or maybe I have been too busy. Whatever the reason, I apologize for my absence and I promise to be better. Blogging really is therapeutic and, for me, it is a great way to exercise the other side of my brain.

Coco is out of town for work until Wednesday night so I am home with Lucy. So for the next two days the TV will be permanently tuned to HGTV and Lucy will not move from her window perch for fear that she will miss Coco's arrival back home. Oh, and I won't cook. That I am looking forward to. Coco will be traveling most of the next two weeks and I really don't like it when he is gone. I like it too much when he is here. Oh well. This too shall pass.

I thought I would share an easy peasy dessert recipe I made over the weekend for some out of town friends. I have no idea where I got this recipe so if you recognize it, give the owner some cred!

Butterfinger Cake

1 box Devil's Food Cake Mix

1 bottle caramel topping

1 can condensed milk

1 large tub cool whip

2 butterfinger bars, crushed

Prepare cake according to package directions. Immediately after removing cake from oven, poke several holes all over the top with a fork. Mix sweetened condensed milk and caramel together, pour over hot cake and spread over entire cake. Chill well. After cake has chilled completely, spread cool whip over the top and sprinkle crushed Butterfinger on top of cool whip.

I forgot to get a picture before the feasting began. I promise this ooey gooey yumminess is a crowd pleaser!

November already?

2009-11-03T07:00:00.001-06:00

I can't believe it is November. Where did October go? Or September for that matter? Time flies. I love this time of year so much I just wish I had a magic watch where I could suspend time. There are never enough hours to bake enough sweet treats, shop for that perfect gift, decorate my home, spend time with family and friends, and most importantly celebrate Jesus this season. Here's to making every effort to do all of these things and then some...and do them well. I guess I should start with a list...how do you start your holiday season preparation?

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

This past weekend Coco and I decided we needed to add a little fall color to our front door in anticipation of the trick or treaters we hope to see on Saturday. We stopped by a great garden shop in town, Sweet Peas, and found these great pumpkins and set them up on our front stoop. I love pumpkins and in my opinion, the uglier the better. Don't you just love the one resting on top with all of its bumps?

The best part? These ugly little punkins can greet our guests right on through Thanksgiving!

Coco and I are looking forward to Saturday. This is the first year since we have been in our house (we have been here 4 and 1/2 years) that we will be home on Halloween. We are usually hanging out with friends elsewhere but this year we decided to do the hosting. Hosting might be a generous word - we plan on setting up chairs on the front lawn with our friends and eating and drinking our way through All Hallow's Eve while greeting the creatively dressed children in our neighborhood and passing out our favorite candy. What are your plans?

Drama Queen.

2009-10-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

Sunday afternoon Coco and I took Lucy for a walk around the neighborhood. A few of Lucy's friends were out so we stopped to play for awhile. We watched Lucy tear around the front yard of our neighbor's house being chased by two boxers, Goose and Bower. After about 30 minutes we walked a very tired Lucy home.

Apparently her jaunt was a bit too much because later that night we found that one of her paws was bleeding. It appears she cut it during her play session. We cleaned it out, used some liquid bandaid and wrapped a self adhering bandage to her paw. As soon as the bandage went on, she started milking it. She didn't even act like anything was wrong before her paw was wrapped up (the bandage just helped keep the little bit of blood off of the furniture). Coco and I almost fell on the floor laughing because she wouldn't walk on her paw - she scooted around like a tripod! She got this pitiful look and found her bed. I couldn't resist, this was too good not to take a few pictures. This is priceless...she is such a drama queen..wonder where she gets it from?

Doesn't she look pitiful?

Poor baby

Oh, and before you think we are cruel parents - she really is fine. She is back to her old self...drama queen and all.

Target Tuesday

2009-10-27T07:00:00.003-05:00

Birmingham just got a new Super Target and I have been itching to check it out (Note: we have other ST's but this one is NEW - so fresh and so clean clean). Supposedly it is the biggest Target in the U.S. After my first visit, this could be right. Ashley invited me to go with her Saturday morning to see how fabulous it might be. Fabulous it was. Yes, I was the freak taking pictures of random items throughout the store, items not necessarily for sale. I have no shame. And Ashley was a good sport. After we stopped in at Starbucks for a Pumpkin Spice Latte we were off to wander aimlessly through the aisles. I think we were there for at least 2 hours. A few pictures that captured our fun...

Yep, I took a picture of the buggies (no squeaks!). Yes, buggies. I live in the South - deal with it.

$8 earrings - lurve it.

Um, I don't think I can pull off these rain boots, but aren't they cute for less than $30?

I loved this jacket - but I picked up the wrong size and had trouble getting out of it!

Doesn't Ashley look adorable - with her baby bump?!

Christmas time! Their decor is out in all its red and green glory. I loved these kissing balls.

Don't you need some furry friends?

Isn't this Mercury Glass Candle Holder for $30 beautiful!

I can think of no better way to spend my Saturday morning (thanks Ash!). By the way, I am on the hunt for some fabulous leggings. And nope, I didn't find any at Target - I looked, trust me. Yes, I am taking the plunge. I cannot find a pair in my size that I like (I want the cotton kind with NO sheen). Any suggestions from my fellow leggin' sportin' bloggers?

Orange you glad?

2009-10-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

The color orange is everywhere this fall. I was a bit skeptical at first but the more fabulous photos I see, the more I am warming up to the color. It is the perfect fall color and there are so many shades of orange you can easily find one that will work in your home. Check out the inspiration I found below from BHG.com.

If you aren't ready to make a big commitment to the color, how about dressing your table with these great orange inspired items from Anthropologie?

Or maybe you are ready to make a small wardrobe commitment (also courtesy of anthropologie.com)?

Have you capitalized on the color orange in any way? Do share!

A Surprise Visit!

2009-10-22T19:00:00.000-05:00

I walked into my house Monday evening after work and my wonderful parents were standing in my kitchen! For many of you that may not sound like a surprise but the sheer fact that they live 9.5 hours away in Lakeland, Florida made their presence a sweet surprising treat! After tears and squeals from me, Coco revealed their secretive little plan. My parents dear friends own a business that brings them to Birmingham on occasion (it helps too that their two sons live here as well). They are fortunate to use a private plane for business and needed to be in Birmingham for dinner Monday night. They were so sweet to invite my parents Monday morning to come along (and my parents were so great to drop everything at the last minute to come visit for a few hours)! My mom called Coco to orchestrate the surprise and Coco made dinner reservations at one of our favorite Italian restaurants, GianMarco's. We spent the evening talking, laughing, drinking and eating. It made my week, er, month! We don't get to see them near enough and it was so much fun to have a night together.

It was so nice to hug their necks and talk face to face. Thank you Mom and Dad for coming! And thank you "Air Harrell" for bringing them to us! I can't wait to do it again! Have I mentioned I LOVE surprises like that?

Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

Poor Bailey

2009-10-20T07:00:00.002-05:00

Giving dogs a bath can be quite the experience. Coco and I have it easy with our Lucy - she is good to just hop in the bath tub and wait on us to get our scrub on. Okay, so "us" may not be the most accurate use of words here. I can't tell you the last time I bathed Lou Belle, Coco is so good to me (and Lucy).

Isn't she too cute? Patiently waiting in the tub on her Dad.

MC's pooch, Bailey, is another story. Bailey is not so keen on the bath idea. Maybe because he has so much hair you have to use a super soaker to get him clean. Last time MC was in town, I had the privilege of being ~~dragged~~ asked to go to the pet store to bathe Bailey. Um, right. It is a good thing you can lock yourself into the bathing area otherwise Bailey would have torn through the store just to get away from us.

Bailey looks thrilled doesn't he? I think his whole body was shaking at this point. Aren't our "aprons" fabulous? They need a monogram. :)

I got to chase Bailey around the room to attempt to get him dry. MC took this action shot to commemorate the experience (thanks a bunch). Getting this dog dry is impossible - hours later he was still damp. How do I know? He planted himself in my lap and wouldn't move. He loves his Aunt Kiki and I love the little ball of fur.

Any excuse to hang out with my sister. Don't worry - we capped off our bathing experience with pedicures. Hey, we need our pampering too, right?

Roll Tide!

2009-10-18T21:00:00.000-05:00

Coco and I went to Alabama's homecoming football game in Tuscaloosa on Saturday night. Our friends, Brooke and William, were so nice to invite us! We had a great time even with the chilly weather. I think the temp during the game dipped between 40 and 45 degrees. The Tide rolled over South Carolina in a 20-6 win. I had never been to an Alabama game, let alone an SEC game and it was so much fun to root for a team with at least 90,000 other screaming fans. Brooke has become quite the veteran at these games and we scouted out a good shaker before we went in. I was convinced my arm was going to be sore from so vigorously "cheering" with my shaker...apparently I don't know my own strength. :)

Kiki and Coco

Our stadium entrance - it is a HUGE place!

Brooke and Kiks

The only picture I could get of William - he is an intense fan :)

And thankfully Georgia Tech beat Virginia Tech (Go Jackets!) so Coco was a happy camper all the way around! Thank you Finneys for having us come along!

Baby Shower Bonanza Part 2

2009-10-16T07:00:00.002-05:00

I mentioned here that there are many fabulous women in my life expecting little bundles of joy. This past weekend I had the opportunity to help host a baby shower for my friend, Jordan. Her and her husband are expecting a baby boy in December so it was time to shower them with gifts! We had a great time visiting (and eating) and watching Jordan open all of the precious baby items. We can't wait to meet Price Andrew!

Oh! And MC came into town for the occasion - so much fun to spend time with my sister! And Kate and Ethan stopped by for a bit - what a trooper!

Mommy and Me

A diaper cake for Jordan (and Price)

Leah - the hostess with the mostess! Her house is beautiful!

MC and Little Ethan - two of my favorite people!

Jordan had LOTS of presents to unwrap

Such beautiful things

Um, so Kiki was a little preoccupied...

We had a great time and just two more months before Price makes his debut!

***For Baby Shower Bonanza Part 1, click here.

Blogs and Coffee

2009-10-15T07:00:00.002-05:00

You may have noticed the fabulous framed poster, "I love you, blogs and coffee", proudly displayed in our home "office". My sweet sister, MC, sent this little happy to me a few weeks ago. Isn't she wonderful? It is perfect, I love it. It was purchased from the very talented MadeByGirl. MadeByGirl shares her fabulous creativity through her Etsy shop, her blog and her website. Check her out! I am now on the hunt for a fab frame I can spray paint white (you know my infatuation with spray paint :)) to make my own poster look chic! Don't you just luuurve it??

Photo courtesy of MadeByGirl's Etsy shop

A place to blog

2009-10-14T07:00:00.003-05:00

We've made a few changes at the house in the last few months and found the need to repurpose some of our furniture. I have mentioned many times that we live in an itty bitty house so there are not too many places we can fit in new furniture without getting rid of or repurposing something old. I was determined to keep this armoire and convert it to our "office", but faced a challenge of what to do with the gaping hole in the back (long story - let's just say that once upon a time this baby housed a HUGE TV and desperate times called for desperate measures). After a quick trip to Hobby Lobby and Hancock Fabrics I came home with some mounting board, thumb tacks and fabric (found in the remnant section). I collected some accessories from Ikea and Target and MC shared her mad vinyl skills to "pimp" our home office. I am not done with the organization or inspiration, but I am thrilled with the look and functionality so far!

Excuse the golf clubs - they maintain an indoor place of honor when not in use. :)

Don't look at these pictures too closely - they provide us a bit of humor...and humility. Pictures of Coco and me when we first started dating - we look like babies!

We love our wireless printer - we survived for years without a printer at all and now I don't know what I would do without it!

Anyone have any creative places for their own home office?

Ethan is home!

2009-10-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

After nearly three weeks in the NICU, sweet little Ethan is resting peacefully at home! His parents (our wonderful friends, Kate and Donnie) are so glad he is finally home with them. It was so much fun to see him this weekend. He is too precious. I think I might steal him - if only for a day (don't worry Kate, I will bring him back). I think he is going to love his Aunt Kiki! Kate was sweet enough to snap a picture of us. :)

I'll be back with my weekend activities soon! Stay tuned for a fun blog announcement this week!

Life Handbook

2009-10-08T18:37:00.008-05:00

I received this in an email forward from a friend, I am not a big fan of forwards but this one has some great insights that I thought I would share. These words get you thinking...

Life Handbook

Health:

1. Drink plenty of water.

2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner

like a beggar.

3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less

food that is manufactured in plants.

4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy.

5. Make time for prayer.

6. Play more games.

7. Read more books than you did last year.

8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.

9. Sleep for 7 hours.

10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk every day. And while you walk, smile.

Personality:

11. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what

their journey is all about.

12. Don't have negative thoughts over things you cannot control.

Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.

13. Don't overdo. Keep your limits.

14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.

16. Dream more while you are awake.

17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner of his/her

mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.

19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate

others.

20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.

21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems

are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like

algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.

23. Smile and laugh more.

24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

Society:

25. Call your family often.

26. Each day give something good to others.

27. Forgive everyone for everything.

28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.

29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.

30. What other people think of you is none of your business.

31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your

family and friends will. Stay in touch.

Life:

32. Do the right thing!

33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

34. GOD heals everything.

35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

37. The best is yet to come.

38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.

39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

I am list girl - I am drawn to things I can "check" off. It's that whole type A personality I possess. Maybe that is why I liked this. It gets you thinking. Life isn't always this simple but it never hurts to get back to basics. As we embark on one of the busiest times of year, take some time for life. :)

New York City! - Part Two

2009-10-07T07:00:00.014-05:00

I am back to finish up sharing the details (and many pictures) of our trip to NYC...

Saturday began much like Friday with a bagel and Starbucks on the run. Our first stop was the 86th floor of the Empire State Building. What a beautiful sight - the view from this building will take your breath away (along with the crisp and cool wind from the gorgeous fall day)!

Doesn't he look professional?

The view to the South...

And the North

It is amazing what they have on top of buildings in the city!

The Chrysler Building in the distance

Aren't I cute?

As soon as we descended back to Earth (via stairs AND a warp speed elevator) we were ready for our first official New York City Subway ride of the trip. No matter how long its been since you have ridden public transportation in the catacombs of the underground there is no mistaking the stale, warm breeze that greets you as soon as you descend the stairs. I am happy to report we made it to all destinations without missing a beat (or a train), we had a few close calls since I can't seem to operate the metro card and corresponding subway entrances (geez). We headed via subway to the Upper East side where I ~~speed walked~~ wandered into the French Sole Outlet that Coco so candidly documented here. I do love shoes so a trip to the city wouldn't be complete without a purchase (or two...or three), right? Coco was so very patient while I labored over my purchases (thank you dear!).

Once the shoe purchasing commenced, we found this adorable pet shop, Canine Styles, that sold fabulous pet beds, sweaters and animal friendly treats and provided grooming services. We even ran into a little Boston while we perused the store that made us both miss Lucy. I was very tempted to by Lucy a new sweater for the upcoming cold season but the $90 price tag made me think twice. (Sorry Lucy, but Momma needed shoes. :))

Check out the cat in the bottom right corner of the window...doesn't it look real? Yep, alive and kickin'! Too cute!

All this shopping makes a healthy couple hungry so we headed to a little French restaurant, La Bonne Soup, that was recommended by a family friend. It was a quaint little place that served the best french onion soup I have ever tasted. Not to mention a basket full of homemade bread and butter (be still my clogging heart!). We waddled out of there and headed to Bloomies on 5th Avenue.

After sticker shock we needed a little sugar shock and stopped in to Dylan's Candy Bar. Now, I am not sure I have revealed this before but I HEART candy. I like chocolate but I HEART candy, yep just like a 5 year old. The more sugar and gelatin the better. Dylan's was the ultimate candy experience (yep, I was elbow to elbow with wide eyed, salivating little ones that could barely ride the tea cups at Disney World). I walked away with a baggie full of treats and a Frozen Hot Chocolate from their cafe (um, YUM!).

Treats (and shoes) in hand, we headed back to our hotel to rest our tired tootsies before dinner. Below is Coco's remedy for tired and sore feet - a VERY cold bath. It worked like a charm - a quick soak and a few minutes of relaxing and we were ready to roll.

We had dinner reservations at an Italian restaurant called Fresco's and decided to take our time making our way to dinner. We started off toward Rockefeller Center and passed Radio City Music Hall and St. Patrick's Cathedral on our way. We took a few minutes to take in the inside of the cathedral - what a beautiful place. We managed to snap a few photos (sans the flash) to remember it by.

Dinner was divine. We were content. Grabbed a taxi and drifted off to a food induced stupor (I mentioned we like to eat, right?). We slept in Sunday morning and our first outing was brunch at Norma's (located in The Parker Meridian Hotel). The place was packed with people and for good reason - brunch was delicious. Coco and I had most of the day before we had to catch our flight back to Birmingham so we made the best of the dreary weather and visited Central Park and Grand Central Station. It is amazing to me to think about just how large the Park is. We barely ventured in and you immediately feel like you have been transported to another place - it is quiet and serene and the big, bustling city seems miles away. What a great place for New Yorkers to escape and be reminded of God's beauty.

Grand Central Terminal

What a trip! As I read back through the posts I realize we ate and photographed our way through NYC and I can't think of a better way to spend four precious days with my hubby.

Candy Corn...

2009-10-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

...how I love thee.