A new look for us... sort of

Four years of improper construction makes a nice case for rotting wood and leaks! UGH! Finally, after getting the run around from the builder and insurance company (neither of which I will name here --- although I should) we decided to cough up the cash and take care of this nasty problem once and for all.

For me the 'silver lining' to this huge bill and weeks of construction is it will finally be fixed correctly and I can decorate the music room. For the kids, the upside is they couldn't participate in their piano recital because the piano had to be sealed off for several weeks, hence, no practice or lessons.

Always something good!

Room for Roo

Recently in the middle Tennessee area, there was a huge puppy mill bust. Conditions were horrific and dogs in make shift jails were left outside, neglected without food or water, sitting in their own feces. Animal Rescue found more than 100 dogs suffering in this mill. My friend, Shawn Aswad of Snooty Giggles Dog Rescue took in the old, sick and suffering and rounded up fosters for these dogs until they can find forever families willing to love them. We were lucky enough to be able to foster a sweet little teacup Chihuahua named Roo. Roo is 5 years old (approximately) and a love. She is extremely timid, as she has never known real love and affection, and she is scared of sudden movements and sounds. But once she learns to trust, she is so cuddly and loving and will allow you to hold her. I would love for Roo to find a forever home who would love her, work with her and help her realize a true dog's life. If anyone is interested in adopting her, please let me know. Here are some pictures:

Help me find this sweet girl a home!

March Family Photo

At the end of our first whitewater rafting experience ~ I felt it was appropriate to choose this as our March family photo! Good times! Thank you Endless River Adventures for a wonderful, personal experience. And a big hearty thanks to Sarge, our guide, who kept us safe and entertained!

Time Away

We just recently spent some time away as a family ~ much needed with our crazy schedules and Vince's travel. A secluded cabin in the Smoky Mountains and some fun activities including white water rafting, ziplining, hiking and stop at Rock City on the way home.

We had lots of good laughs together and very little bickering. Peace. Oh how it makes this mama's heart swell with joy!

Here are some pictures from our time away:

Looking forward to a warm and lovely spring!

St. Patty's Day Beer Festival!

ok...so not exactly St. Patty's Day but my grandmother would be proud because we did wear Kiss Me I'm Irish necklaces and helped ourselves to some ale. Vince seriously was like a kid in a candy shop ~ the man can talk about beer forever and to whomever! Had fun with our friends Ryan & Teri! Cheers!!!

Around Here...

around here I am deeply entrenched in my new found love of mixed media art. Love the online tutorials provided by Christy Tomlinson of Scarlet Lime and am discovering my inner artist!

around here we have been trying to eat more organic, less chemicals and are considering buying a local grass fed cow.

around here we are watching Amazing Race: Unfinished Business and rooting for the cowboys again or the father/daughter from Kentucky.

around here Sarah is beginning trigonometry and not feeling confident.

around here I am struggling with the roller coaster ride of raising a teenage girl whom I love dearly, but dislikes me on most days because I have to parent her and most things I have to say she doesn't want to hear.

around here we have had a slew of rainy, gray weekends and we are all getting a little bit of cabin fever -ready for spring.

around here my niece lost her top tooth and she looks so different! It just serves as a reminder of how fast they do grow up!

around here Vince is home working here in his office without plans to go out of town for business for the first time in six weeks.

around here Ben is getting his permission slip signed to be allowed to watch the puberty video at school.

around here I have been on my knees and finding scriptural promises to hold on to when I feel I am defeated in life.

around here we are looking forward to a break from the routine and some time in the mountains for spring break.

President Ben!

Today my son went to school as the late John F. Kennedy for his biography book report. He even let me part his hair for the total look. Doesn't he looks so presidential?

My commander in chief....Love this kid!!