tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80006598830225910202024-02-18T19:07:18.948-08:00The Cottage in the Countryour adventures fixing up 'the little house' on the landjandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-49041057813439145882014-03-17T18:32:00.003-07:002014-03-17T18:32:59.487-07:00Blessed to Love Her<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'd say we're lucky to love this tiny girl but that's not true. We don't believe in luck! :) We know God has knit her together, planned her life, and blessed us to be her Mommy and Daddy! Regardless, she did look pretty cute in this tutu outfit! We love our tiny girl and count ourselves blessed to love her every-single-day. Few things thrill our soul like her tiny smile and precious giggle!<br />
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We love you little Macie Jane! </div>
jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-68120639431241731272014-03-16T18:25:00.000-07:002014-03-17T18:27:21.422-07:00Just Us Girls for the Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last week, in South Carolina, Spring made it's grand appearance. The weather was absolutely gorgeous and we soaked up as much of it as we could! Sadly though, J had a conference out in Nashville and had to leave us on Tuesday for the week. Macie Jane and I were sad to see him go but we decided to make the most of our situation! I figured we could pass the time by soaking up the sunshine and going on adventures around town! We started the week off with dinner downtown and a trip to Edventure, a children's museum. Macie Jane loved getting explore and I loved not having to say, "no." It was a delight to see her excitement and reaction to so many kid sized exhibits. She's such a little smartie and the museum was so, so much fun!<br />
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When we had home group Macie Jane loved getting to see all her friends and play with her little buddy Elliana. Needless to say our discussions were a little distracted and it got noisy. It's sweet to see Macie Jane interact with a friend her size. I love that she has such a precious little friend.<br />
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Later in the week, we had Bible study in the morning and we experienced a new "first." My little love bug is a morning person, and normally rises around 5:00-6:00am. However, the one time J is away and we have somewhere to be in the morning my tiny alarm clock decides to sleep in! She slept in until 8 and we needed to leave by quarter to 9! Somehow she had a hot breakfast, a quick bath in the sink, I threw myself together and packed her bag. We were only 15 minutes late! That's a miracle and a whole lotta grace! I couldn't be frustrated, we got extra sleep and it sort of makes me laugh thinking about the irony of our situation. I'll mark it down for the baby book- our first time oversleeping! :)<br />
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Friday we had a lunch date with Ruth, cupcakes, and playtime at the baby gym! That evening we had a dinner date with Aunt Deb and did a little shopping. We found the perfect little shoes for our go-go baby! It was a full and fun day! We were so excited that J was coming home the next day!<br />
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We started the weekend by sleeping in (not as late as Thursday, haha! ) We had a brunch date together, we grocery shopped for all of J's favorite foods and snacks, and did lots of chores! We wanted to give J a king's welcome home! In the afternoon we got to go see Joseph play baseball. It was a gorgeous blue sky day! He played great and we had so much fun cheering him on!<br />
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Before we knew it Joshua was home! The week flew by! Macie Jane and I made lots of fun memories together but we missed him terrible and are so, so happy to have him back! We are so glad these trips only come once a year and even more we are thankful for family and friends who take care of us while he was away!<br />
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jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-53020015749629012442014-01-30T08:10:00.005-08:002014-01-30T08:10:58.671-08:00A Perfectly Southern SnowIt's not every year that we get to enjoy a winter wonderland of snow. In the South snow is a delightful novelty we get to look forward to! While it doesn't happen often we take full advantage of it when it does! It started in the evening on Tuesday and came down hard through the night.<br />
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With forecasts of 2-4 inches of snow, naturally we were cautioned to stay home. That was more than fine with us! We are unbelievably blessed to live in our little house on the land for so many reasons, but snow days on the land have to be toward the top of that extensive list! After a few "baby's first snow" photo-op's (haha!) Joshua rigged up the sled to the 4-wheeler and off we went!<br />
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Macie Jane was adorable! I held her tight on my lap while we rode together. She loved getting pulled on the sled and feeling the cold air as we slid all around. Later, J taught her how to hold on to the side ropes and pulled her by hand around on a larger sled. It was such a fun family day! Rachel Lilly gave J a good ride on the sled! She whipped him around with the 4-wheeler. Macie Jane and I explored a little with Lollie and Grandpa down near the creek. It was fun to see the land covered in snow and how beautiful everything looked down by the water. It really was a beautiful, winter wonderland! However, with only 2 inches of snow and lots of 4-wheeling fun the ground didn't exactly stay pristine. By later in the afternoon the many circle shaped tracks were indication of all the fun that had been had! We took advantage of the little snow that was left. We rode around the back part of the land and gave Macie Jane a few more sled rides. She was clapping and giggling a lot. We're pretty sure she loved it!<br />
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To warm up, we came back to Grandpa and Lollie's to enjoy hot cocoa and the fire. It was a very full and fun day!<br />
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<br />jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-18812533034613531962013-11-30T19:28:00.000-08:002013-12-09T12:07:51.286-08:00It's beginning to Look a lot Like....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh! I love this time of year for so many reasons! I love getting to send a little love in the mail. Christmas cards are so fun! We took a few pictures while apple picking back in October to use on our Christmas card. Then, today with a little help from a sweet cousin we were able to get just the right family photo.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">I can't wait for the cards to arrive. It'll be a dash to get them all addressed and stamped but I love it! Hopefully, they'll arrive soon and turn around to be sent out right away!</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! </span></div>
jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-83717019583528911282013-10-30T13:24:00.000-07:002013-11-02T13:25:37.683-07:00Apple Picking at Sky Top<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdg3Apb_VC0vHKXAtxYm6cr4z0E05McaTEE1WkABok8hXHWThQ1ZhyphenhyphenaJ5ECp4_wPigI3uqBsbO2jaDEc7KtiHf5qEpgA_sNvEmlM1rLCxkDnGnaF5kBKPafavoja8E2HGHuDvzugltEKs/s1600/family+at+skytop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdg3Apb_VC0vHKXAtxYm6cr4z0E05McaTEE1WkABok8hXHWThQ1ZhyphenhyphenaJ5ECp4_wPigI3uqBsbO2jaDEc7KtiHf5qEpgA_sNvEmlM1rLCxkDnGnaF5kBKPafavoja8E2HGHuDvzugltEKs/s320/family+at+skytop.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Sky Top is probably the most perfect orchard. It's set on top of a picturesque mountain and boasts acre after acre of apple trees. It smells of warm, fresh apple cider donuts and grassy hayrides. We try to plan to visit when the leaves are at their peak for changing colors. We have never been disappointed and this year was no exception. As we were driving up J and I talked about the sweet memories the orchard holds. The first time we went Joshua and I were dating and pretty close to engagement. I was convinced that we were getting engaged, but he didn't propose there. It's a funny story and sweet memory now. The second year we went J and I were newly married and we decided this would be a great Fall tradition. Last year when we went we were anticipating the arrival of our sweet Macie Jane! We picked apples and dreamt about bringing our sweet girl the next year. We smiled at precious families and were thrilled that we were headed in that direction. Somehow this year we picked the coldest day of the season so far! We bundled up in pea coats and Carhart jackets with mittens and scarves. We were not to be deterred. We got there at the perfect time. Macie Jane was precious looking around and babbling at the people and trees and animals. We had the sweetest time picking so many Pink Lady apples! We fed the goats and stood in line for yummy donuts! Not to mention the workout we got climbing up and down the mountainside searching for the perfect grove of apple trees. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtRuZomtxwiSsDbZgLVNp_NNgP-bGanf3ePr1v7FZB-bhySRd20dYSJgHa7PhyPEvBRbtSVl_5kKdzewaq50CGqwN4K3w9laVezk7rsP4MrrZHS1UGZ5nARJTwn08fI0wHcLSWSxeKR8/s1600/Little+MJ+at+SkyTop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtRuZomtxwiSsDbZgLVNp_NNgP-bGanf3ePr1v7FZB-bhySRd20dYSJgHa7PhyPEvBRbtSVl_5kKdzewaq50CGqwN4K3w9laVezk7rsP4MrrZHS1UGZ5nARJTwn08fI0wHcLSWSxeKR8/s320/Little+MJ+at+SkyTop.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
For a sentimental person this tradition makes my heart swell. I love all the memories Sky Top holds and I love the hope of all the future memories we'll make there as well!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Fall Y'all! </div>
jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-54021036271066396312013-09-09T13:41:00.000-07:002013-11-02T13:54:01.239-07:00Fall, Pumpkins, and Cookies<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ok, so we're officially 9 days into September, football season is in full swing, and the lows this week are in the 60's. I think that's sufficient empirical evidence to say Fall is here. Never mind the calendar's claim that we must wait until September 22 nor the fact that the daytime temperatures still soar into the 90's. I made a pact with myself that I wouldn't decorate for Fall until the grocery store started carrying pumpkins and guess what? On my shopping trip today guess what I found?! Not only pumpkins but mums too! I exercised so much restraint not picking up a few of those garnet and golden yellow beauties. Maybe next time. I did snatch up a pumpkin and a can of Puree. This afternoon Macie Jane and I had a ball making up these lovely pumpkin cookies. I mix and cut; she giggles and keeps me smiling. (Seriously, the sweetest baby)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />In case you're up for a little taste of Fall, here's the recipe.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(Compliments of Ms. Martha Stewart and her cookie recipe collection.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;"> Ingredients</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;">:</span><br />
<span style="color: #535353; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #535353; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> 2 3/4
cups all-purpose flour</span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
1
teaspoon baking powder</div>
</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
1
teaspoon baking soda</div>
</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
1
1/4 teaspoons coarse salt</div>
</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
1
1/2 teaspoons ground <span style="color: windowtext;">cinnamon</span></div>
</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
1
1/4 teaspoons ground ginger</div>
</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
3/4
teaspoon ground nutmeg</div>
</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
3/4
cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened</div>
</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
2
1/4 cups packed light-brown sugar</div>
</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
2
large <span style="color: windowtext;">eggs</span></div>
</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
1
1/2 cups canned solid-pack <span style="color: windowtext;">pumpkin</span>
(14 ounces)</div>
</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
3/4
cup evaporated milk</div>
</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
1
teaspoon pure <span style="color: windowtext;">vanilla</span>
extract<br />
<br /></div>
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Directions</span>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue';">Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. </span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue';">Whisk together flour, baking powder,
baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg in a medium bowl; set
aside. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue';">Put butter and brown sugar in the bowl
of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed
until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes.</span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue';">Mix in eggs. Reduce speed to
low. </span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue';">Add pumpkin, evaporated milk, and
vanilla; mix until well blended, about 2 minutes. Add flour mixture; mix until
combined. Scoop batter in 1 1/2-inch rounds onto baking sheets, spacing 1
inch apart. </span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue';">Bake cookies, rotating sheets halfway
through, until tops spring back, about 12 minutes. Cool on sheets on wire racks
5 minutes. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue';">Transfer cookies to wire racks; let cool
completely and enjoy! </span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Fall Y'all!</span>jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-41090606536698995692013-09-06T06:52:00.003-07:002013-09-06T06:54:56.106-07:00I'm Home! I still can't believe it. I'm really home. That's my job, stay at home mommy. Last week I officially ended my job at a local elementary school to be home with our Macie Jane. This week has been amazing. In addition to lots of snuggling I've been able to get our house back into working order. :) Kudos, to working Moms! I don't know how you do it! You are amazing! Keeping up with family time, household chores, and a full time job is exhausting to say the least! J and I prayed and worked through our budget to figure out how to make it work. God made it very clear that home is where I am supposed to be and we couldn't be more thrilled. I miss my sweet teacher friends and precious students but it is a gift to enjoy every moment and every day with our tiny girl!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div>
Recently, I read a quote saying that, "the days and nights are long but the years are short." I think I'd have to argue that the days and nights are flying by as well. The decision to stay home couldn't have come at a better time. Macie Jane is almost 7 months old. (I'm choking as I type that!) The time with her is absolutely flying. How is our tiny girl so big! She's scooting and army crawling ever where. She eats baby food like a big girl! And she is so observant, watching everything around her. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am soaking in every single day because I know they go faster than I want them to. I know our adventures together are just beginning and I'm thankful. So thankful to be her mama.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-83443487243844780632013-08-10T14:01:00.000-07:002013-08-12T08:38:56.655-07:00Seeing the Father's Heart of God<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"having the eyes of your hearts enlightened,
that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you..."
Ephesians 1:18<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> This verse could effectively be the theme of what
I consider one of the sweetest Summers I've enjoyed. How gracious of our God to
enlighten the eyes of our hearts. He does not leave us in ignorance to the hope
He holds for us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgltrAXajNJGM0wkVbcd_fITo66a8hXzsihc66IQjhaK6HU6UOK7nCcBTYOTJCEsDbSvqlLPYHZsXR_jS7NlCRLwlHMg4o9lo25ZW21N1G_2uo_l-Aitps8nWiUZaq3bMZgokdHCK8gaHE/s1600/me+and+mj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgltrAXajNJGM0wkVbcd_fITo66a8hXzsihc66IQjhaK6HU6UOK7nCcBTYOTJCEsDbSvqlLPYHZsXR_jS7NlCRLwlHMg4o9lo25ZW21N1G_2uo_l-Aitps8nWiUZaq3bMZgokdHCK8gaHE/s320/me+and+mj.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> No doubt, this summer has been an adventure. I'm
still not over the novelty that I'm a mama. What a delight it is getting to
hold my sweet Macie Jane and discover life with her. Every single day is a
learning experience. Do you want to know the biggest object lesson of life?
Become a parent. Wow. God has used our precious, precious baby girl to teach me
so much about Him and so much about me. Let me share an example, you'll catch
on, and I'm sure we could find a thousand other parallels. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Macie Jane has a bi-monthly check up to oversee
her growth/development and to receive scheduled vaccinations. She of
course has no clue what's going on (yet) but I do. She feels fine and happy.
She's smiling and enjoying the crinkle of the exam table paper. My heart aches
knowing what's coming. If you're a mommy you understand what it does to you to
see that sweet face wince in pain. Absolutely, hands down, I cry significantly
more than she does. After we pull ourselves together and check out of the
doctors office we head home. It is a quiet ride. Shots tend to exhaust our baby
girl. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> As we drive I'm thinking and praying. "Oh,
Lord, help me to remember this is necessary. Help me to see that this was for
her good. I know she doesn't understand. All she understood was the pain but I
know that if it were not for this momentary pain she could one day feel pain
much worse than she nor I can imagine." And then, it's almost like I could
audibly hear Him say to me- I know what you feel. I feel it much deeper. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> "For we do not have a high priest who is
unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has
beentempted as we are, yet without sin.<b> </b>Let
us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive
mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:15,16<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> How thankful I am for His mercy and grace no
matter the time of need. His grace is sufficient for a mommy's heart. I begin
to think about the Father's heart of God. Macie Jane belongs to me because I'm
her Mommy but ultimately she belongs to Jesus. In the same way, I am my
mother's daughter but ultimately I belong to Jesus. How many times in life have
I been enjoying the metaphorical crinkle of the exam paper and then to have my world rocked
in pain. Was God absent? Absolutely not! He was there, He is always there. In
the pain of life He is sovereign. In the moments (or days or weeks or months or
years) of pain I would ache. At times the pain felt blinding and hope, although
always there, sometimes seemed fleeting, but He is always with me. Parts of
life were difficult to understand. However, I would gladly say that if it were
not for those painful experiences I would not be who God is making me today. A
few wise women have reminded me that, "nothing touches my life apart from
God allowing it." How thankful I am for that truth! I didn't understand
then but over a relatively short amount of time I have been able to see His
gracious hand of mercy. I am grateful for my hope in Him and for How He
changes us from "glory to glory."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> My little butter bean has no idea how powerful
her life has already been used by our God. Daily, I see Him clearly </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">a little more and a little more. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Thank you, Jesus for allowing me to be Macie
Jane's mommy! Help me to hold her with an open hand, remembering that she
belongs to you. Help me to be a reflection of you. Most of all, dear Jesus,
help our sweet baby to know you, love you, and walk with you. Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--EndFragment-->jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-89219711854050369242013-04-15T07:19:00.001-07:002013-04-16T10:25:42.697-07:00Macie is 2 Months Today! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My sweet Macie,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Every single day with you is a gift! I love being your Mommy. You have filled my heart with so much joy. Snuggling up with you is one of my most favorite things to do these days and I have to practically pry myself away to do chores and make dinner! I wonder so much what your personality is going to be like. You're very smiley these days but you still have a serious look most of the time. You must be thinking about something interesting. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You are growing bigger and more adorable everyday. Your hair is ever so slightly turning lighter and your eyes are still a lovely blue. You're a good eater and weigh almost ten pounds! I wonder where is my itty bitty baby going? We started wearing the 0-3 months clothes on you. They're still a little big- but that makes Mommy's heart happy! Finally, we've been able to dress you up in cute little dresses. The weather has finally turned warm for the Spring! We get to enjoy a pretty walk through the land almost everyday. I think you really like walking and wonder if maybe you look forward to it each day. I know I do! You are a great little companion when I have to run errands. Usually you sleep the shopping trip away. Everyone who sees you says that you are beautiful and they usually comment on your pretty hair. Daddy and I couldn't agree more!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This past month we celebrated your first Easter, you had your first play date, and you went to your first wedding- you slept through all of those too. :) You started taking a paci and began to bat at your little toys. One night you slept all the way through! Daddy and I couldn't believe it! We even checked the monitor to make sure everything was working right! You haven't done that again yet but we know that time will come eventually. For now, I enjoy snuggling you so close and rocking you in the quiet of the night. These are sweet times and I want to cherish them. I pray with you and thank Jesus for you. All of the adventures and challenges of being a new mommy are worth it one hundred times over.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You are so very loved by all of your family! You love to visit and snuggle up with them! We still just sit around and stare at you! We can't believe how blessed we are with you! You are such a good baby. You definitely have good lungs and let us know when something is not quite right, but whenever the problem is remedied you are our happy baby girl again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We are praying for you, sweet Macie, that you would know our faithful God and walk with Him. He is the source of all good things. He is our hope and our joy. He created us just as he created you- for His glory. We pray that you will see Jesus in us as we love you and raise you to know Him. We celebrated Easter a few weeks ago. We want to live the gospel everyday, but we celebrated Jesus' life and resurrection especially that day. We are praying, baby Macie, that you will know Him and the incredible power of that resurrection. You're only 8 weeks old and life is new now but there is a greater newness in Jesus. It is our heart's cry that you will know Him and walk in that newness of a deeper spiritual life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm thankful for you, precious baby. I love you today and I love you tomorrow. I love you as deep as the sea.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">with all my love,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">your Mama</span></div>
<br />jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-67049448140194603262013-03-08T18:59:00.000-08:002013-04-17T10:12:32.768-07:00Macie Jane's Birth Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ever since I can remember I've always wanted to be a mama. When we found out this Summer that God gave us the desire of our hearts to be parents our hearts soared! All babies are so wonderful and amazing but being pregnant took our awe to a whole new level. Each week we read how our sweet girl was developing. How amazing is our great God?! He formed this precious child day-by-day, minute-by-minute over 10 months.<br />
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The first time we saw her on an ultrasound (and every time, actually) my eyes swelled with tears. There is no better way to describe it other than- amazing! From as early as 12 weeks she looked like a teeny tiny person. We even joked that she had her daddy's personality because when we went to capture a picture of her on the ultrasound she quickly flipped over and 'hid.' Each check up was the highlight of my month or week as we got closer. We recorded the sound of her heartbeat and framed pictures of her ultrasounds. We prayed for her health and safe arrival. We loved this sweet baby girl from the minute we discovered she existed.<br />
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We were blessed immeasurably with a very smooth and mostly easy pregnancy. Baby girl gave us a few scares but every time she was perfectly well. My only real anxiety was over delivery. I was worried about being strong enough. As our due date drew closer my fears and anxiety heightened. I remember the night we walked out of our last birth class. I held it together long enough to get into the car and then completely fell apart. I sobbed realizing that this was it- everything was completed in anticipation of sweet Macie. The nursery was decorated and furnished, baby clothes were washed, and the birth class was complete. Anxiety rushed over me as I fearfully thought about labor and delivery. I wanted so much to do what was right for the baby and for myself. I've never had a strong pain tolerance and I really wasn't sure I was up for natural birth but I wanted to try. I prayed through my tears that night asking God for help. I needed help with my fear. I needed help to handle contractions. I needed help to deliver our baby.<br />
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Each morning as I drove to school I asked for grace in labor and delivery. I pleaded for strength both physically and emotionally. For a pregnant mama I had the perfect job. I helped teach a Kindergarten class and I worked with the most amazing and thoughtful teacher. She has a 3 year old little girl and was so great to give insight and consolation for my pregnancy adventures and fears. When my colleagues asked about my plans for maternity leave in jest I would say I planned to teach through contractions all day then go home and have the baby. Who would've thought that could actually happen?<br />
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On Valentine's day I went to my 8:30 doctor's appointment for a scheduled ultrasound. We were concerned about Macie's size since her daddy weighed close to 10 pounds and I was a bouncy 7 pounds and 14 ounces. My mama in love, or as we affectionately call her now, Lollie, came with me. It was pure joy to get to share the ultrasound with her. That morning, according to measurements on the ultrasound, Macie weighed 7 pounds and 11 ounces. We were in pretty good shape since we only had 10 days until the due date. All morning I was having what I thought were Braxton Hicks contractions. I asked the doctor about it and he nonchalantly replied that I should "just keep an eye on them." He went on to suggest scheduling an induction for the following week. I sheepishly declined on account of my fear but mainly because I needed to pray about it and talk it over with Joshua. After leaving the office, again, the tears ensued. I couldn't believe her arrival was so immanent. Little did I know those weren't Braxton Hicks I was feeling, labor had begun.<br />
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...The ultrasound almost exactly 24 hours before she was born...</div>
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I drove into school arriving an hour late but full of excitement for the valentine's day festivities. If you don't know Valentine's day is a VERY exciting day in Kindergarten. Candy and love- it doesn't get much better! :) Throughout the rest of the morning I felt those 'Braxton Hicks' and decided to start recording them. After lunch I sent the record of my contractions to J but with a message saying that early labor can last days and sometimes up to a week. At that point they were about 5-10 minutes apart and lasting almost a minute. I took two of my sweethearts to the library to get books and as we walked I would slow down with contractions so much that I told them to walk on and I would catch up. As soon as a contraction was over I could resume my normal pace and we were fine. As the afternoon progressed so did my contractions. During our math time I was sitting at table with a group of students. In normal kindergarten fashion, they were loud and excited and asking lots of questions. At one point I closed my eyes with a slightly intense contraction. One of my precious little friends exclaimed, "Mrs. Snipes, why you sleepin'?! you need a nap?" How could I not smile? We finished the day with a valentine party. I struggled to handout my valentines and as soon as the day was over I scooted out quickly.<br />
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At that point I knew something was happening. The contractions were consistent and getting more difficult. I went straight to Joshua's parent's home because I knew my mama-in-love and the sisters would be home. I wasn't positive I was in labor but I didn't want to be home alone. I thought for sure if I laid down and relaxed the contractions would stop. However, after some rest and continued symptoms of labor, I knew I needed to call the doctor before the office closed. The nurse very adamantly insisted that I needed to head down to the hospital. I was in shock. I was just in the doctor's office that morning, how in the world could it be time? I fell apart and again, tears. (Have you noticed a pattern yet?) I called J and let him know what was happening. He left work and headed for the hospital as Lollie and I were on our way. Still in denial, I walked into triage and joked with the ladies in reception saying, "Do I look a woman in labor? I'm perfectly fine. This isn't happening yet." After being checked out they determined that I was in early labor and not active labor yet. I was sent home. (See, I knew I was fine!)<br />
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After what felt like the most uncomfortable and bouncy ride back to my in-laws we enjoyed a lovely valentine's evening meal of Chick-fil-a courtesy of my sweet mama-in-love! The conractions continued and were getting intense. At one point I had a very strong contraction and I panicked thinking, "I can't do it. I can't. I need help." I was then I knew I was going to have to have an epidural. Then, it dawned on me that, Hello!! It's Valentine's day and maybe my sweet in-laws would like to enjoy the evening! What were we doing at their house?! Joshua and I left and came back to our house. My contractions were getting more painful and at this point I was still dressed up in my school clothes. I changed and tried to relax. I recalled all the relaxation techniques from our birth class and none of them seemed to help. It was just painful! I went into our room, prayed, and tried to rest- again, I thought if I laid down it would stop. (Seriously, I know you're thinking I'm crazy right now, but it really never set in that this was it.) We timed the contractions for an hour. They were about a minute in length and 2-3 minutes apart. A little after 10:00 Joshua made the executive decision to head to the hospital.<br />
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Again, the ride was very uncomfortable but thankfully this time I had a lot more room and a shoulder to hold onto. My beloved in-laws offered to take us. Joshua's sweet dad drove us as J and I sat in the back and managed through contractions. His kind mama followed us in our car so we'd have a car at the hospital to come back home in. Upon arrival I wanted to walk up to the birth center, but I was coerced into a wheelchair by the energetic security guard. He ran as he pushed me up to triage. Maybe he thought I was about to push the baby out?! The guys parked the cars and sweet Lollie jogged behind me up to triage. This time I wasn't so jovial. I felt embarrassed that I was back because I just knew the nurse was going to send me back home. Much to my surprise, the nurse checked me and announced I headed to the birth center to be admitted. My head reeled, I was thinking, "what? I made it? it really is time? oh no! I didn't finish packing the hospital bag! I was going to do that tomorrow on my day off school!"<br />
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...around 2 am I figured I better let friends/family know this is happening- so I texted... :) </div>
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They transferred me back into the wheelchair and pushed me down to the birth center. I climbed into bed and the process began. I got my IV and they asked it I would like an epidural. Of course, I said yes. I couldn't handle the pain and I knew it was about to get exponentially more difficult. Joshua stood by my side the entire time. He encouraged me, held my hand, brushed my hair back. I adored him then more than ever. When the funny anesthesiologist came in he quibbed about his expertise. He asked if I knew any pregnant friends to which I replied, "yes." He told me, "Tell your pregnant friends don't come on week night. Come Monday morning- you get real doctor. On week night you get Indians!" We laughed so much! He continued to make silly jokes as he began to set up my epidural. He was great. My eyes stayed fixed on Joshua and the picture of sweet Macie's ultrasound he was holding. Before I knew it the epidural was over. It didn't feel good but it was honestly not that bad. The anesthesiologist was an excellent doctor. After about 10 minutes or so I felt nothing. Crazy! I relaxed and couldn't believe it. The girls had arrived at the hospital and were so sweet to come back and see me. They didn't stay long but long enough to give me courage and make me feel so loved. Our precious family camped out in the waiting room for the night. (I can't begin to tell how much I love my family!)<br />
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...best cheerleaders a girl could ask for...</div>
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I knew I was going to have a big workout ahead of me with labor and delivery so I decided to try to rest. I wasn't sure how long it was going to be until it was time to push since I couldn't feel anything. J stayed up through the whole night but I was laying in the bed snoring! Yes! Snoring through labor. We joke that I got better sleep the night I was in labor than I had in the last 9 months! I woke up around 3 and asked J if I was still having contractions because I felt nothing. I was so afraid that the contractions would stop and we'd need a section. He smiled and said, "nope, you're actually having a pretty big one right now." I looked at the monitor and was astonished! I was really moving along!<br />
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I went back to sleep and I don't remember when it was but after a little while I began to feel sensation and contraction pain on my right side. The nurses thought this would be a relatively easy fix. I had been laying on my left side so I just needed to flip over to the right. They moved me over and I fell back asleep. I don't know how long it was but I remember being woken up to several nurses around me checking my blood pressure, putting oxygen on me, and rolling me back over. In the process of moving me my water finally broke. Apparently, being on my right side made my blood pressure drop and Macie's heart rate slow down. I didn't understand what was going on all I knew is that I wasn't hearing her heart beat on the monitor any more. Thankfully, the panic didn't last long and after repositioning the monitor they found Macie again and her heart was going strong!<br />
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Around 8:00am one of my nurses came in and asked if I was ready to push. I had been fully effaced and was 10 centimeters dilated for a while. My body was ready to go. J took one side and the nurse the other and I began the most exhausting work out of my life! I pushed with her for about 40 minutes and then the doctor arrived. They got everyone and everything into place. I felt unbelievable peace. It was time and I was ready only by the all sufficient grace of God. I pushed for a little over 30 minutes. The nurses counted and Joshua's words of encouragement gave me courage. He was my rock through it all. He was right beside me, literally holding me the entire time. Just as I felt I had given it all I could, God gave strength for one last powerful push and she was here! At 9:33am we met our precious, Macie Jane. It was the most incredible moment of my life. She came right to my chest. She was warm and squishy and slippery but most of all she was the most beautiful creation I have ever seen. She was perfect! I cried and I held her and I looked at her. I looked at my beloved husband as he gazed at our sweet girl- I've never felt so full of love. As I held her, Joshua leaned in close and prayed. He thanked God for his incredible grace, for our healthy girl, and for such a smooth delivery. She was here and He answered every single one of our prayers.<br />
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After snuggling our baby for a little bit and getting the go ahead from the nurses our family could finally come back! This time I wasn't the only one in tears! Our immediate family was there right away to meet her and Aunt Deb came down too! Our precious little sweetheart was so loved- while we stayed at the hospital almost every single family member and a few friends made it out to the hospital to meet her. Over the two days we stayed our nurses took such great care of us. They were so friendly and helpful. I asked about five million questions most of which received the same response, "that's normal- all babies do it." If I thought I was bad as a first-time-pregnant mama I'm much worse as a first-time mama of a newborn!<br />
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It was a snowy Saturday in downtown Columbia and we snuggled up in our cozy room together as a family. We eagerly watched the hours pass on as we were excited to get home. Finally, the time came a little after noon on Sunday and we were released to head home. I sat in the wheelchair holding sweet baby Macie as they pushed me out of the postpartum wing, into the elevator, and out of the hospital. As we traveled across the bridge in the bright, sunshine my eyes swelled with tears again. I was holding our beautiful gift, God gave incredible grace to deliver, and we were embarking a new chapter in life. We made it- by God's grace alone. He is good all the time but we enjoyed the richness of His goodness in an amazing new light. For the whole ride home tears of joy fell. My heart has truly never felt so absolutely full. We came in on a chilly, dark night two days ago and on that crisp, clear blue-sky day we left with the most beautiful baby girl this world has ever known.<br />
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I've always wanted to be a mama and on Friday morning, February 15th 2013 my dream came true!<br />
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"Let everything that has breath praise the Lord, Praise the Lord!" Psalm 150:6</div>
jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-86774332688575151252013-03-06T19:13:00.000-08:002013-04-12T11:32:03.730-07:00Ouch! Baby's First Shots<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Baby Girl had her first shot today. We both cried but she did great! She's back to her birth weight 7 pounds and 10 ounces! Our doctor answered every single question I had even before I could ask. I love the pediatrician we have. She attends to Joshua's sweet sisters as well and the practice we go to has been used for three generations of our family. I love that Macie goes to the same practice that her grandpa did! We are thankful for another good doctor's visit. She growing well and is in perfect health!</div>
jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-40502999240223932522013-03-04T19:06:00.000-08:002013-04-12T11:33:26.108-07:00First Week at HomeIt still hardly seems real. Having Joshua home with us for the entire week was amazing. I'm healing up well and think that I might be back to normal sooner than I was anticipating- again, God's grace. We took lots of pictures (like 1,000-not joking.) We took walks and enjoyed the delicious culinary skills of our family members and friends. I don't think we've ever been so sleep deprived in our whole lives but I don't think our hearts have ever been so full either! We love our tiny butter bean! She is adorable and sweet. She's eating about every 2 hours and sleeping a lot. When we are not snuggling her we are snapping pictures. We want to savor every moment. This tiny newborn time is fleeting and we want to take it all in and remember it forever.<br />
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This is her daddy's new favorite pastime! :) </div>
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jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-41006028217948810912013-01-03T19:10:00.001-08:002013-01-03T19:11:22.978-08:00Looking Back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Reflecting on 2012 we can't help but praise our great God for His goodness, mercy, and patience. Looking back at the last twelve months we can see grace upon grace. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful."</span></blockquote>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Throughout this year, time and time again, we were reminded of God's continual faithfulness. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">"if we are faithless He remains faithful." </span></blockquote>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I confess there were seasons of weakness and disappointment but more abundantly there were sweet seasons of rejoicing and overflowing thanksgiving. When my faith would falter He was constant. This year I saw His compassion unlike I have ever before. My weakness was palpable but His loving-kindness washed over me with ineffable power. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">He is always near to us.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">"God is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth."</span></blockquote>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We hit the ground running as the year began. It was exactly a year ago that I began to chronicle our adventures in renovating 'the little house' here on our blog. It's incredible looking back at what a year can bring. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As I write tonight I'm sitting cozy in our little house feeling our precious baby girl wiggle to a comfortable position in my rounded belly. Our cottage project is basically complete and I am overwhelmed with gratitude. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">January brought dreams and plans of renovations, February was accompanied by new perspective through a gift from my beloved mama in love, and March was busy but April brought new meaning to working over time! Finally, in May we made the cottage our home. In June we not only celebrated a sweet first anniversary but we also learned that God had granted the desire of our hearts- a baby. July was most notably characterized by nausea but the highlight was an amazing week at the beach with all of our precious extended family. August brought the start of a new position in Kindergarten and a scary few weeks as we pleaded the Father on behalf of sweet Grammy. September came with great rejoicing as Grammy was finally on the mend- little else mattered. In October our world turned pink as we learned our precious baby is a girl- Macie Jane! The chill of November made me fall even more in love with the cozy house we call our home. Before we knew it the holidays were upon us and the house was bedecked in twinkle lights and candy canes. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Sometimes I look around and can't believe all that we have been blessed with. I am undeserving. I walk with an incredibly good God. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">"He is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, <sup class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; line-height: normal; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-ESV-29255AW" title="See cross-reference AW">AW</a>)"></sup>according to the power at work within us."</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The same verse Joshua referenced as he proposed a little over two years ago continues to resonate. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As we look towards 2013 we cling to our hope in Christ. We pray we will never forget all he taught us over the last year. He is above all faithful and we move forward with confidence knowing that His good work is only just beginning. We will begin a new chapter. In addition to our experience as son and daughter, brother and sister, husband and wife- we now add daddy and mama. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">What a wonderful blessing. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We pray that God will grant His grace and wisdom- we need His nearness.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Let everything that has breath praise the LORD! Praise the LORD!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Psalm 106:51</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-40338417442503624572012-11-25T18:07:00.000-08:002012-12-09T16:19:57.648-08:00NestingI think the nesting bug has come to our little cottage! Joshua and I enjoyed a few busy days off for the Thanksgiving holiday. While we took sometime to relax and recharge, we also did a lot around our little house.<br />
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Macie's little nursery has started to come together. Grandpa and Joshua painted her nursery the sweetest soft pink. Then, J and I painted a few white birch trees on the walls to complement our 'little birds' theme. On Wednesday night we had brand new carpet installed and J set up her beautiful crib. We recently got a glider to match the crib and moved that into the nursery as well. It's starting to become more and more real. I love seeing the crib set up and waiting for our precious girl.</div>
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On one of my days off I got particularly 'nest-y' and went to town with my sewing machine and paintbrushes. :) I found an adorable painting on Pinterest several weeks ago and decided to replicate it using the colors of Macie's nursery. I had so much fun painting away! I made a set of two. They aren't fine art but I love the scripture, the sweet birds, and the fun decorative patterns along the sides. I couldn't wait to hang them up! They are a nice pop of color on the soft pink walls. </div>
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With my sewing machine, a little white fabric, and a new canvas drop cloth I got to work on curtains for the second window in our bedroom. I did the same Anthro-esk design on these as I did on the others. They look nice and really tie the room together. I love the ruffles and burlap motif in our room. I makes me smile thinking about how it matches the personalities of J and I. Manly and practical for him and fluffy and girly for me. </div>
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While I was nesting away inside, Joshua was working outside building a shed in the backyard. Shortly after settling into the little house we discovered it offered lots of charm but very little storage. This wasn't necessarily a problem at first- I just stuffed the closet of the extra room jammed full of things in no particular order or organization. (out of sight, out of mind- right?) However, as the 'extra room' began to transform into a nursery for our sweet baby girl I realized my strategy wasn't going to cut it much longer. Try as I might, no matter how many times I went through the things to try to throw away or donate items to eliminate clutter we always still ended up with so much stuff! This is where the shed comes in. I can't wait to organize everything into rubbermaid containers and move them to their new happy home outside. I think we will breathe better being decluttered! Joshua did a wonderful job building it- have I mentioned lately how blessed I am to be his wife?! He is amazing! There is nothing that man can not build. </div>
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We have a few other little projects we want to do before our tiny girl arrives but we got off to a great start over our long holiday weekend! </div>
jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-36657666901830099502012-11-07T18:13:00.002-08:002012-12-09T16:19:57.647-08:00Peach Pork Picante<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This tangy meal packs a kick! The nice thing about this recipe is that it is only as spicy as you desire it to be! The prep is quick and cooks in about 30 minutes. You can't beat it!</span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Peach Pork Picante</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Serves: 4-6 (depending on size of your tenderloin)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Time: 30 minutes</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Pork Tenderloin (cubed)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1 Package of Taco Seasoning</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1 cup Salsa (I like medium or hot but it's your preference)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">2 tablespoons Peach Preserves</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1 Green Pepper (sliced)</span></div>
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<u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here's How to Make it: </span></u></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Season the tenderloin with the dry Taco Seasoning. Then, cook on medium high in a large skillet with a little olive oil. When the pork tenderloin is mostly cooked add 1 cup of salsa and green pepper slices. Cook the meat along with the salsa for about 5 minutes and then add two heaping tablespoons of peach preserves. Stir occasionally until the meat is fully cooked through. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Serve over brown or white rice.</span><br />
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<br />jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-31125490434856794192012-11-06T18:43:00.000-08:002012-12-09T16:19:57.641-08:00Sweet Onesie Cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh14cD6jdz1kxE7FYlgEPZI2cOaLT2C2QI37Z8Dl0ZPPhgiUc1Qg7EptZaSjC2wxn0STYfL-xKdttLid2-9clIcxAYPKcfZkrCJX-lN4czkgAbPjptTWRiioomabk2_VptsynLr4ecmPY4/s1600/IMG_2580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh14cD6jdz1kxE7FYlgEPZI2cOaLT2C2QI37Z8Dl0ZPPhgiUc1Qg7EptZaSjC2wxn0STYfL-xKdttLid2-9clIcxAYPKcfZkrCJX-lN4czkgAbPjptTWRiioomabk2_VptsynLr4ecmPY4/s320/IMG_2580.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Is there anything more fun than baby clothing? or cupcakes?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">With a little Pinterest inspiration I made this adorable shower gift. It's a fun way to put together a small present. I've always loved creatively making the presentation of a gift special. When I saw this project I couldn't wait for a reason to make one! This cupcake set was for a baby girl but it could be easily adapted for a boy or for a baby who's gender hasn't been revealed. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here are the step by step instructions:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">First, you'll need 4 colorful onesies and two pairs of brightly colored socks. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cAcJtbjbQIh-Ptw3FWPQn4Ojzk_fxoJBrkT06RoRRkz69TZCW1zNb15GCAI85JR-aPhON7_wOiPgbKQuFvgzOoQyUj7eqsUGe1liPbi2dB5xGyuDOMqJIOWj6Pb39u6iLD3M9upE55Q/s1600/IMG_2576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cAcJtbjbQIh-Ptw3FWPQn4Ojzk_fxoJBrkT06RoRRkz69TZCW1zNb15GCAI85JR-aPhON7_wOiPgbKQuFvgzOoQyUj7eqsUGe1liPbi2dB5xGyuDOMqJIOWj6Pb39u6iLD3M9upE55Q/s320/IMG_2576.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> Fold over the two sleeves of the onesie.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_akNPydvnC9EtpEZCS56CAAIT4WGXK1nbrZd80_pqmoIU95Ajg-YAJY_kO7PSTwtp2pLMIFpb-CcQpfo57PsqE6XyGrTT_PHaQwsLzAitxuVWnUnShy1v1HfjiVlHI4X1YBve249BOhI/s1600/IMG_2577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_akNPydvnC9EtpEZCS56CAAIT4WGXK1nbrZd80_pqmoIU95Ajg-YAJY_kO7PSTwtp2pLMIFpb-CcQpfo57PsqE6XyGrTT_PHaQwsLzAitxuVWnUnShy1v1HfjiVlHI4X1YBve249BOhI/s320/IMG_2577.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> Then, fold the whole onesie in half.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeqJc1SEonN2b6DwNxZAMxYF_AX_MDN9Q08Oys6eL14a2416zIojwj3BVXK-6_uFfmr8o5J-Sz0pVoZqB9j7cFqoCJORMTDSXw-4aqN_fsY_wg64ceoJi23hwexEwlckG-U_mg0KnhiE/s1600/IMG_2578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeqJc1SEonN2b6DwNxZAMxYF_AX_MDN9Q08Oys6eL14a2416zIojwj3BVXK-6_uFfmr8o5J-Sz0pVoZqB9j7cFqoCJORMTDSXw-4aqN_fsY_wg64ceoJi23hwexEwlckG-U_mg0KnhiE/s320/IMG_2578.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> lay one sock (already slightly rolled) on the top of the onesie-up near the neckline.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSdpALNCqVFC27tcw62E9Gnd6KrbF8VatwS5hoLfQT_PP8ObzRNXI4WfLxVOOS6RPlvtXUTAUcqk13xlizhBOgwcDai3HcnlCdlHSJCrEsjqxrmW-EaQXnjJX-CTU8OaVJ1ZKoCdK-KM/s1600/IMG_2579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSdpALNCqVFC27tcw62E9Gnd6KrbF8VatwS5hoLfQT_PP8ObzRNXI4WfLxVOOS6RPlvtXUTAUcqk13xlizhBOgwcDai3HcnlCdlHSJCrEsjqxrmW-EaQXnjJX-CTU8OaVJ1ZKoCdK-KM/s320/IMG_2579.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> Continue rolling the onesie in a tight but spiral fashion.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">To secure the 'cupcake' I wrapped a ribbon around the bottom.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh14cD6jdz1kxE7FYlgEPZI2cOaLT2C2QI37Z8Dl0ZPPhgiUc1Qg7EptZaSjC2wxn0STYfL-xKdttLid2-9clIcxAYPKcfZkrCJX-lN4czkgAbPjptTWRiioomabk2_VptsynLr4ecmPY4/s1600/IMG_2580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh14cD6jdz1kxE7FYlgEPZI2cOaLT2C2QI37Z8Dl0ZPPhgiUc1Qg7EptZaSjC2wxn0STYfL-xKdttLid2-9clIcxAYPKcfZkrCJX-lN4czkgAbPjptTWRiioomabk2_VptsynLr4ecmPY4/s320/IMG_2580.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> Place the 'cupcakes' in cute liners and arrange in a cupcake box.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMRBtRgh5Vjq_SuGE9G_kP1ihqpqCdmxrNurGbMGIWf4hlyBvJsTovDx55pLVKLYxWLNm99_0roeiNGEMHxPkH9RnWRkp61hnPknUTHZFadR5eY8Sc5Z6yLqVDx4l-nNGJPIRi4vNTOk/s1600/IMG_2581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMRBtRgh5Vjq_SuGE9G_kP1ihqpqCdmxrNurGbMGIWf4hlyBvJsTovDx55pLVKLYxWLNm99_0roeiNGEMHxPkH9RnWRkp61hnPknUTHZFadR5eY8Sc5Z6yLqVDx4l-nNGJPIRi4vNTOk/s320/IMG_2581.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">For extra embellishment I wrapped the box in ribbon and clipped on a fun hair bow.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Ta-da! A small gift with a big bang! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Not to mention it was so much fun to make! :) </span></div>
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jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-26239335262165451952012-10-31T14:40:00.000-07:002012-12-09T16:19:57.613-08:00Chicken & Veggie Pasta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JXDcA2JDiKaX3dmUUpy7ODemhsLhYdeQY-_i0xhEhZNZECpmMkn3xQhDrn5UTBN4qemrLFinM61pGM7kLshwTK-baEMjILfvmDvw6peZva3f4HFpJBSD2HWNmei0wNyq9BrtGSdUtUQ/s1600/What's+Cooking+Wednesday+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JXDcA2JDiKaX3dmUUpy7ODemhsLhYdeQY-_i0xhEhZNZECpmMkn3xQhDrn5UTBN4qemrLFinM61pGM7kLshwTK-baEMjILfvmDvw6peZva3f4HFpJBSD2HWNmei0wNyq9BrtGSdUtUQ/s400/What's+Cooking+Wednesday+1.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We like good, southern cooking. Unfortunately, most of that good cooking requires a lot of time and preparation. On occasion and with the right motivation I pull a few of those kind of meals out. However, for day-to-day life I love a good meal that doesn't require a whole lot of work! (This is mostly to do with the fact that I'm still working full time and trying to squeeze in a good nap everyday before starting dinner. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This meal is not only lovely looking but it's also quick to put together! :) </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibaXYgPdamObCMvvP7JLCBCpesDXpNqeVniLhA7v8gJp69n5w9vPVj5e0rvudFZiePoSLIRrvg_iP2DPEaoEvCxt3TMNQHcPuwM4iy7f45hNC3C3PdC_9nWHMAhwo_D0KzU3_KUMQkFys/s1600/IMG_1707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibaXYgPdamObCMvvP7JLCBCpesDXpNqeVniLhA7v8gJp69n5w9vPVj5e0rvudFZiePoSLIRrvg_iP2DPEaoEvCxt3TMNQHcPuwM4iy7f45hNC3C3PdC_9nWHMAhwo_D0KzU3_KUMQkFys/s320/IMG_1707.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>Chicken and Veggie Pasta</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Serves: 4</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Time: 30 minutes</span></div>
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<u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">You'll Need:</span></u></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">3-4 Thawed Boneless Chicken Breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Velveeta Cheese</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Frozen Peas</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Frozen Corn</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Frozen Carrots</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1 Box of Rotini Noodles</span></div>
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<u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here's How to Make it: </span></u></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">First, put a pot of water on to boil your noodles. Meanwhile, cook the chicken in a skillet with some olive oil. Then, boil your noodles. As your noodles are boiling cook your frozen veggies (steam, stove-top, microwave- your prerogative) After your noodles have cooked to your preferred tenderness strain them and pour them into a large box along with the Velveeta. Stir until the cheese has melted in well. Add the chicken and veggies. Ta-da! You're all done! It's not only colorfully beautiful but also very tasty! Enjoy! </span></div>
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jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-51083456064741008152012-10-29T19:01:00.000-07:002012-12-09T16:19:57.656-08:00DIY Anthropologie Ruffled Curtains<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEXkLDIyxubLGJDkMi9_SDAZDJMxxB0nDQXfUnXZz-etx0UN5mcvvRvVsK89sFh0bi4p9fjoqPktDdrL04Nc__trPPbf5QoisC22BZVRKUaVuiRbZY2OoipQ5nLcegkxxGLtpSYJUbAUs/s1600/anthro+curtain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEXkLDIyxubLGJDkMi9_SDAZDJMxxB0nDQXfUnXZz-etx0UN5mcvvRvVsK89sFh0bi4p9fjoqPktDdrL04Nc__trPPbf5QoisC22BZVRKUaVuiRbZY2OoipQ5nLcegkxxGLtpSYJUbAUs/s320/anthro+curtain.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
After living in the cottage for a little over six months I finally got around to putting together curtains for the bedroom. We had been using a plain drop-cloth curtain but I wanted to soften it up to match our Shabby Chic Bedding. I saw a cute idea from <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/22688683.jsp?color=014" target="_blank">Anthropologie</a> but I couldn't justify the expense. It wasn't a difficult looking project so I decided to figure it out on my own. If you want to make your own fancy, ruffled curtains (and save a few $) here's how:<br />
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Our curtains are 72 inches long so I needed a little more than double that amount in the length of my fabric cut- about five yards. Depending on how wide your window is you will need to get more than one cut of that length. Our window is a standard, single-window so I only needed one cut.<br />
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Once I got home I folded the fabric in half lengthwise and cut it into strips about 6-8 inches wide.<br />
(This was just to save time cutting.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi21rrXYyY5loqUuZ6d2mvxek9Cc5jtDEYnOKozIxd5X9IZ7BdmmTG_u9xdpSe4v2QqaWnl0T4t-Q9IBxs25OzxsJ2m9PfeARNanlhMfWGU57uidfWeXiaGct3wmSAoIDfklQFJWPprMRU/s1600/IMG_2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi21rrXYyY5loqUuZ6d2mvxek9Cc5jtDEYnOKozIxd5X9IZ7BdmmTG_u9xdpSe4v2QqaWnl0T4t-Q9IBxs25OzxsJ2m9PfeARNanlhMfWGU57uidfWeXiaGct3wmSAoIDfklQFJWPprMRU/s320/IMG_2521.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Then, I folded a strip in half lengthwise and sewed a simple, straight line down the open side.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk1Mco9IfkTWZk1xZxu9lvDurYA4r-Py80Bf0HM3fP_zWHx9-YQkMgMfHu-95dNEvBDBHeCArK2OCnwlp6YIfKP5c5AWNogXxxKDs5wfYIbhKmPUXI3TxJOGalla_WSnBHy_8LusvskUU/s1600/IMG_2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk1Mco9IfkTWZk1xZxu9lvDurYA4r-Py80Bf0HM3fP_zWHx9-YQkMgMfHu-95dNEvBDBHeCArK2OCnwlp6YIfKP5c5AWNogXxxKDs5wfYIbhKmPUXI3TxJOGalla_WSnBHy_8LusvskUU/s320/IMG_2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Next, turn the sewn strip right side out and sew the ends.</div>
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After that, you will want to lay out your strips to determine how many you want on each panel and then straight pin them down for sewing. Keep in mind you will need to leave excess to make the ruffle.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKsrVLhX5mBpCs1xPevZH_dak05jsmUs0n7RqK24Jiuz3pDAvEdKt3Qh376uGhi5rpEiQL7ioiLzDT19-DHmd_qcaENecsPcR-t44fr0CTZ0wct1tAiRSep74tLNcntygT4hNLwbk0pDU/s1600/IMG_2524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKsrVLhX5mBpCs1xPevZH_dak05jsmUs0n7RqK24Jiuz3pDAvEdKt3Qh376uGhi5rpEiQL7ioiLzDT19-DHmd_qcaENecsPcR-t44fr0CTZ0wct1tAiRSep74tLNcntygT4hNLwbk0pDU/s320/IMG_2524.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
To sew the ruffle, I left the machine foot up and hand fed the curtain through. Simultaneously, I bunched the fabric to make the ruffle as the machine sewed it.<br />
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This is definitely a time consuming project between cutting fabric, sewing the strips, reversing them, and then ruffling them through the machine. However, it ends up looking really great!<br />
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<br />jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-85504705930677259822012-10-28T19:09:00.000-07:002012-12-09T16:19:57.680-08:0012:30pm Fall in the Country<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-19030842971188241902012-10-27T16:05:00.000-07:002012-12-09T16:19:57.608-08:003:15pm Sky Top Apple Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-60506441373200530422012-10-09T15:27:00.000-07:002012-12-09T16:19:57.659-08:00Macie Jane<div style="text-align: center;">
After 20 weeks of eager anticipation we finally found out we are having a sweet baby GIRL! </div>
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The cottage is about to get a little more girlie and that North Carolina blue room is about to turn a lovely shade of ballerina pink. </div>
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I can't wait! </div>
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We wanted to do something fun to share the gender of the baby with our family living close by. The idea of a cake reveal was suggested and we thought it would be perfect! After our appointment on Monday, I made a cake but used food coloring to turn the inside of the cake pink and then frosted the outside with vanilla. When everyone arrived Joshua cut the cake to reveal the pink and share with everyone that we are expecting a little girl! The reactions were priceless! My sweet husband and his father are the only two men in our immediate family. Little Macie will be an addition to the already bubbling-over brood of women in their lives! Needless to say, they will be a perfect daddy and granddaddy to Macie because they know all about girls! All of us women are already dreaming up sparkles and tutus, monograms and cupcake celebrations! We are all so very excited to meet this precious baby girl and thank the Lord for His goodness to give her to us!<br />
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We love you, little Macie Jane! </div>
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jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-31269962230860405002012-10-07T15:00:00.000-07:002012-12-09T16:19:57.643-08:00Outdoor LivingThe weather is slowly changing from the hot South Carolina Summer to a crisp, cool Fall. Of all the seasons, Fall is definitely my favorite. I've always loved the colors and smells of Fall. It seems so many good things come with the Fall. I love pumpkins and mums, warm coffee on a cool morning and gray october days. (My birthday also happens to come in October- so that doesn't hurt either.) One of our favorite parts about Fall is the return of comfortable weather! After the hot, hot Summer it finally feels great to walk outside and not melt!<br />
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During the Summer Joshua and I talked about our outdoor space and began dreaming up what we could do to utilize it best. We both love to sit on the porch, sip coffee, and visit. Our only problem with the cottage is that we don't have furniture for outside! Joshua, as usual, came up with a brilliant plan. He had a great idea to cover the deck so that we can enjoy being outside even on a rainy day- which actually happens to be our most favorite!<br />
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On Sunday afternoon Joshua suggested we go to Lowes to get a few things he would need for my birthday present. Of course, I was excited but a little intrigued as well! He told me that for my birthday he was thinking of working on our deck space. I was thrilled! I happened upon a website connected to Pinterest with a great idea for DIY deck furniture along with corresponding building plans. I showed it to him and sweetly, he agreed that we could do it. So, off to Lowes we went and around $50 later we were headed home with all the lumber supplies we needed to build sectional seating for our deck. Our plan is to put two seats together for a 'couch' and then one seat independent.<br />
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Admittedly, following Pinterest directions does have its pitfalls but all in all they came out great! I doesn't hurt that there are few things my man can't do. When the building plans didn't make sense he improvised and came up with perfect solutions. The chairs look great! I am so excited to put them to good use!<br />
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We have lots of supplies for making s'mores so if you're in the country and want to stop by you are so welcome to come and enjoy a perfect Fall treat out on the deck with us!<br />
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(that includes those of you related to us who live just down the road) </div>
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<br />jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-61741870661006440982012-08-26T19:20:00.000-07:002012-12-09T16:19:57.660-08:00Power of Power Washing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One joy of living in the country is getting to delight in the outdoors. Unfortunately, we have not taken advantage of our outdoor living space this summer. We plan to change that this Fall. The deck left much to be desired and for a while J and I thought maybe we would need to rebuild parts or all of it. However, on Saturday Joshua used a power washer to clean up the deck and we were pleasantly surprised to see how it turned out! We almost couldn't believe it! With a little elbow grease the deck looks fantastic! Now we're on the hunt for inexpensive outdoor furniture to make the deck inviting and cozy.</div>
<br />jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-74063884771265999772012-08-21T19:06:00.000-07:002012-12-09T16:19:57.671-08:006:50am SPIDER!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8000659883022591020.post-87744957978107250412012-08-15T18:14:00.000-07:002012-12-09T16:19:57.682-08:00Two Tiny Feet...<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">are coming to the cottage in the country! :) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> We are so excited to finally announce that we are expecting our first sweet baby! We are thrilled beyond measure! God graciously answered our prayer and gave us our sweet baby in His perfect timing. We had been praying for this sweet one for a few months and began to pray together and specifically for the last few months. We were overwhelmed with joy and gratitude when we found out a few days after our anniversary back in June that we were going to be parents! God is good. He was faithful through times of discouragement as we waited and continues to be as we anticipate all that being new parents will call us to. Truly, He is good all-the-time!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here is a first look at our sweet butter bean! We are so in love already! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thank you, Lord, for this precious gift!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This first few weeks have definitely been a new experience for us. We have had the joy of experiencing nausea so needless to say my high hopes of crafting the summer away haven't come to fruition. We've had a few improvements around our cottage and anticipate more with the coming second trimester and cooler fall weather. Stay tuned! Exciting things happening out here in the cottage in the country! :) </span></div>
jandcsnipeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701865143948024207noreply@blogger.com0