Yes, Teacher!

Missionary Kid Monday: A Whole New World

2012-02-13T05:00:00.001-06:00

{For more on this series, click here}

And so it was that in September of 1996, I left my awful French middle school behind and started high school at Black Forest Academy. BFA is in the small town of Kandern, Germany:

via

BFA had many dorms situated in the villages surrounding the school. But my ninth grade year, I was a "home student" since the dorms were full: I lived with a family in town whose children were also students at the school.

They were a Dutch family who spoke English flawlessly (although they did revert to Dutch when arguing, haha!) - they were very nice and took really good care of me. I had a roommate whom they were also housing; her name was Rachel and she was a year older than me. Here we are all dolled up for the Christmas banquet.

(I'm the awkward one on the left...)

When I was in 8th grade, I thought BFA would be like a real American high school - And I was pretty sure that what I saw on Saved by the Bell was typical of American high schools everywhere. (Ahem.... pardon my ignorance!)

Although it was nothing like Bayside High school, BFA was (and still is!) a tight-knit little community. It was a small school back then - only 30 students in my freshman class (although by 12th grade, we had grown to 75!)

We had our own traditions: like "creeking" someone on their birthday by throwing them in the shallow creek. We had a Friday Night Activity planned for us every week - sometimes it was a school-wide scavenger hunt, or a movie in the auditorium, or a dorm vs. dorm competition of some kind.

When I look back at my diary that year, it was all about who was friends with who, who wasn't friends anymore, and who was crushing on who. In this respect I imagine my 9th grade experience was like many of my American peers (correct me if I'm wrong?!) However, there were no diary references to kissing, sex, drinking, or drugs, because we had VERY strict rules; even hand holding and dancing was forbidden!

And here's how it was different than American high schools:

- The teachers often ate dinner with us in the dorms.

- The students did chores to keep the school clean since we had no custodial staff.

- We had to figure out how to buy school supplies in town without knowing any German.

- Private conversations among friends would often be in other languages.

- All the girls borrowed each others' clothes.

- Senior Skip Day was planned and chaperoned by our teachers (boo!)

-We had Monday morning matins and Friday chapel every week.

- We went on field trips to see the Roman ruins, the WW1 trenches, and a WW2 concentration camp.

- We went on class trips to Dijon (France), to the beaches of Normandy, and we took a senior class trip to Rome for a week.

- We took dorm retreats to the Swiss Alps.

And as fun and cool as all of that stuff was, do you know what the BEST PART was about BFA? Being surrounded by hundreds of kids just like me, who knew what it felt like to be a Missionary Kid. It meant an instant connection and forged the way for long-lasting, deep friendships to happen overnight.

It was my paradise.

What about you? Do you have fond memories of high school?

We're Having a ......

2012-02-10T05:00:00.012-06:00

BOY!!

I went to the doctor on Wednesday but Max wasn't able to be there. So I told the doctor to write down the sex of the baby on a card and seal it in an envelope. That way, Max and I could open it and find out together that evening. (Ummmm, I was a bit distracted while I was teaching in the afternoon, thinking about that sealed envelope....)

Based on the blog poll I had going, most of you thought I was having a girl:

We are both overjoyed!! (We BOTH secretly were hoping for a boy....) And sooooo thankful that baby is healthy. In fact, our little one was taking it easy in there, chillin' with his ankles crossed. (Haha, definitely our kid!)

Now comes the fun part -- now that we know what we're having, I can start planning the nursery! Yay!!!

Pretty Pantries

2012-02-09T05:00:00.001-06:00

When I dream about organization, I think about my pantry. There's just something about a de-cluttered and PRETTY pantry that makes me drool. Like these:

{source}

I'm thinking my own pantry may need some sprucing up. Some wallpaper and paint (and some matching containers) just might do the trick... it may even inspire me to cook more. What about you? Are you happy with your pantry?

My Undying Gratitude

2012-02-08T05:00:00.001-06:00

Today I'm going to shamelessly ask you to do something I'm not very fond of myself: take a survey.

This here blog is almost two years old! I'd love to have your feedback if you're a regular or occasional reader!! I have no incentive to give you except for my undying gratitude...

Thanks in advance for helping a blogger out :)

Tickle Me Tuesdays, 55th edition

2012-02-06T19:00:00.003-06:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tickle Me Tuesdays, where we all share what's been tickling our fancy!

If you'd like to participate (and you know you do!!), here are the rules:

1. Write a short post with anywhere from one to five items that have been tickling your fancy recently. Please include pictures and links :)

2. Make sure to link back to the party in your blog post (you can grab the button or include a text link)

3. Come back here and link up your blog post!

4. Visit some other links and HAVE FUN!

Paper Flower Garland from SheShell

Fabric Button Ring from Venicia Creations

Two of a Kind Dress from Fransesca's

Now it's your turn! What's been tickling your fancy lately?

Missionary Kid Monday: The Promised Land

2012-02-06T05:30:00.001-06:00

{For more on this series, click here}

In France, junior high lasts from 6th to 9th grade. Here I am in eighth grade (top left corner), absolutely miserable and knowing I had another whole year to go after this.

The plan for high school was to send me to an American boarding school in Germany to prepare me for college in the U.S. Now before you recoil in horror at the words "boarding school", you need to know a few things:

1. It was only a 5 hour drive from my parents' house.
2. EVERYONE there was a missionary kid, just like me.
3. The teachers were all missionaries too, and super nice (obviously not there for the money)
4. Some of my BFFs from English Camp were going too.
5. Anything was better than French schools.

Also, I was INCREDIBLY lonely and VERY independent -- my parents realized this and decided to send me one year early - in 9th grade instead of 10th.

They didn't know that I had been praying for that to happen... every single night of my eighth grade year. Downright pleading with God.

So when my mom broke the news to me (in a rather somber way -- it was obviously hard for her to think of "losing" me so soon), I muttered something and then went to the bathroom....

.... where I completely burst into tears.

Big, fat, happy tears of relief.

And then I felt totally guilty for crying because I knew how hard this was gonna be on my parents!

Next week, more about this magical place:

What about you? Were you excited to go to high school? Or scared out of your mind? :)

Baby Book

2012-02-03T05:00:00.001-06:00

Thanks to a generous gift card from my mom, I was able to buy the perfect little baby book. I've always been the sentimental sort - keeping all kinds of diaries and scrapbooks - so of course I had to find just the right baby book:

Don't you love it? It's from Rag and Bone Bindery and it's superbly well made. I can't wait to start filling it up. I look at my old baby book with absolute delight and I hope someday my child will do the same.

Providing, of course, that I have a sentimental-sort-of-child.

I'd also really like this once-a-year baby book too, but then again money doesn't grow on trees....

What about you? Did your mom make a baby book for you? Did you make one for your kids?

Valentine's Day Rice Krispie Treats

2012-02-02T05:00:00.000-06:00

I'm happy to share with you a fun and EASY recipe you can whip up for Valentine's Day. The kids can even help out!

Here's what you'll need:

10 oz. marshmallows

3 Tbsps butter or margarine

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

16 oz almond bark (or melt-able chocolate)

Heart shaped sprinkles (or in my case, left over red and white sprinkles from Christmas. But do it right people - spring for the cutesie sprinkles!!)

wax paper

Directions:

1. Melt butter over low-medium heat.

2. Dump in marshmallows and stir until it looks like yummy ooey-gooey soup.

3. Pour in 6 cups of Rice Krispies, then stir.

4. Press into a GREASED 9x13 pan. Let cool (or put it in the freezer for five minutes).

5. When cooled, lift the entire contents of the pan with a spatula and place on wax paper. I promise you this is easier than it sounds!

6. Start pressing those cookie cutters and making hearts. Trim away the excess and try not to shove it directly into your mouth. Instead, shove the excess into a cookie cutter, molding into a heart by hand if necessary. (The excess ones will be less pretty but still delicious!)

7. Melt your pound of chocolate, then dip in half a heart, one at a time. Sprinkle with fun sprinkles right away before the chocolate hardens.

8. Display on a platter and admire your handiwork before your family starts grabbing them!

Baby DIY Projects

2012-02-01T05:29:00.002-06:00

I've been strolling around the internet lately, looking for simple tutorials that even my beginner sewing skills can handle. There's a lot I want to make before the baby comes in July! Thankfully school ends May 31st, and I'll (presumably) have a whole month to make stuff.

Check out these adorable baby DIYs!!

1. Crib sheet

2. Swaddle blankets

3. Nursing cover

4. Changing pad cover

5. Burp cloths

6. Travel changing pad

If you have any relatively simply baby DIY ideas, feel free to send them my way ;)

PS: Have you taken the poll yet at the top of the sidebar? What do you think I'm having?!

Tickle Me Tuesdays, 54th edition

2012-01-30T19:00:00.003-06:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tickle Me Tuesdays, where we all share what's been tickling our fancy!

If you'd like to participate (and you know you do!!), here are the rules:

1. Write a short post with anywhere from one to five items that have been tickling your fancy recently. Please include pictures and links :)

2. Make sure to link back to the party in your blog post (you can grab the button or include a text link)

3. Come back here and link up your blog post!

4. Visit some other links and HAVE FUN!

Bronze Custom Map Key Ring from Uncommon Goods

10 Way Wrap from Cuff Luv

Birds of a Feather Ceramic Teacup Set from Ruche

Now it's your turn! What's been tickling your fancy lately?

2012 New Year Blogging Party

2012-01-30T06:19:00.001-06:00

I'm celebrating a new year of blogging with a fun swap hosted by Casey, Danielle, and Alycia!

My partner was Sharon, and I had so much fun putting her goody package together :)

I was equally excited to get her package in the mail (such a welcome change from the usual bills and junk mail!). Take a peek:

She did her homework and knows I like pretty paper! That's why I was especially excited to for those cute little tabs:

What a fun way to start off the new year!!!

Baby Update: Boy or Girl?

2012-01-28T06:29:00.000-06:00

Happy Saturday, folks! Next week I'll be heading off to the doctor to check on Baby. There's a chance I'll be able to find out at this appointment if we're having a boy or a girl (fingers crossed!). I'm so excited to find out so I can start creating and decorating!

Would you do me a favor and answer the poll question at the top of my sidebar? What do you think Baby will be?? My colleagues at work are all of one mind so I'm anxious to know what my bloggy friends think :)

Oh, and here's the latest baby bump update:

Have a fabulous weekend!!

Lovely Lust-Haves: Scarves

2012-01-27T05:00:00.003-06:00

It amazes me the kind of variety you can find in scarves. From infinity to chunky to braided... I want them all! I'm a firm believer that you can never have too many scarves. If my pocketbook would let me, I would own each of these lovelies:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

What about you? Are you as addicted to scarves as I am?

Sponsor in February

2012-01-26T05:00:00.006-06:00

I'd love to have you!

Some quick stats:

- Over 4,000 page views a month

- Over 125 Facebook followers

- Over 1,150 Twitter followers

Options start as low as $5.00.

Check out all the options here and shoot me an email!

sarah [at] yesteachercrafts [dot] com

From the Crockpot

2012-01-25T05:06:00.003-06:00

I love using the crockpot, but I don't use it as much as I should. Here's some inspiration for those busy (and cold!) work nights:

1. Mac and Cheese

2. Enchiladas

3. Lasagna

4. Taco Chicken Bowls

5.. Baked Potato Soup

6. French Onion Soup

Do you have a favorite crockpot recipe? Do share!!

Tickle Me Tuesdays, 53rd edition

2012-01-23T19:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tickle Me Tuesdays, where we all share what's been tickling our fancy!

If you'd like to participate (and you know you do!!), here are the rules:

1. Write a short post with anywhere from one to five items that have been tickling your fancy recently. Please include pictures and links :)

2. Make sure to link back to the party in your blog post (you can grab the button or include a text link)

3. Come back here and link up your blog post!

4. Visit some other links and HAVE FUN!

Fern Hill Lace Clutch from K Davis Creates

Organic Cotton Blanket from Jenna Rose Handmade

Love Vase from Petit Bonheur

Now it's your turn! What's been tickling your fancy lately?

Missionary Kid Monday: English Camp

2012-01-23T05:00:00.039-06:00

{For more on this series, click here}
First off, let's just start by saying that Junior High was an awkward time for everyone. I haven't met anyone who has reported having a great time at that age. I don't care if you were the popular one, or the biggest nerd around (ahem... like me). Case in point:

And living in France made it no less awkward.

We had moved to a new region my seventh grade year. New teachers, new school, and just a whole different ball game. I found that everyone my age "grew up" while I was in California during the sixth grade. My classmates were cussing like sailors; they were obsessed with kissing (etc.); and most were smoking on a regular basis.

As an introverted Christian bookworm, I felt out of place on so many different levels! I was like a fish trying to live in a tree.

My saving grace was English Camp.

You know how fat kids go to Fat Camp? And nerdy kids go to Science Camp? Well missionary kids living in France went to English Camp.

Every summer, I spent two weeks up in the Alps brushing up on my spoken and written English. It was a way for our parents to ensure that we weren't losing our mother language. The one absolute rule at the camp was No French Allowed. (No Frenglish Either). We all tried really hard to respect that - but I would be lying if I said a French word didn't occasionally slip out...

In any case, I lived for English Camp. It was where I discovered that there were other misfit missionary kids just like me who also felt like fish living in trees. We formed fast and intense friendships; bonds that ran deep. We laughed; we cried. We felt happier than we had ever been. We BELONGED.

And we agonized when our two weeks came to an end. We exchanged snail mail addresses (man I feel old!) and promised to stay in touch. And we were pretty good about it!

What about you? Did you ever go to camp as a child?

Lovely Lust-Haves: Retro Kitchens

2012-01-20T05:00:00.002-06:00

I'm starting a new feature this year that showcases my favorite "must-haves". Except, let's be serious: no one is going to die without these items ... thus the title "lust-haves" :)

Today is all about retro kitchens! Take a peek:

1. SMEG refrigerators

2. Yellow Magnetic Kitchen Timer

3. Vintage Measuring Spoons

4. Hamilton Beach Retro Toaster

In my next life, I reeeeeeally want a pink refrigerator!

In the Bedroom

2012-01-19T05:00:00.011-06:00

Today's Inspiration Workshop is all about the bedroom. And for the first time in 9 years of marriage and four different apartments/houses, I can say that I truly do like our bedroom. Here's a peek:

I made the silhouette art of my husband and me. Here's a closer look:

But the wall across our bed needs something. I'm thinking a bold and graphic decal.

I love that our bedroom is a pretty place to relax. How do you feel about yours?

New Mamma Reading

2012-01-18T05:00:00.001-06:00

I know there's LOTS to learn about becoming a mom for the first time, but I'm a little lost about where to start. (There's just so much out there!)

So far, this is the only book I've read in depth - and while somewhat informative, it was definitely HILARIOUS and worth the read:

The authors/bloggers have a website here and a book trailer here!

But on a more serious note, are there any books that you would recommend for me? Books about labor/delivery? Breastfeeding? Baby care?

Please share! I'd love your suggestions!

Tickle Me Tuesdays, 52nd edition

2012-01-16T19:00:00.003-06:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tickle Me Tuesdays, where we all share what's been tickling our fancy!

If you'd like to participate (and you know you do!!), here are the rules:

1. Write a short post with anywhere from one to five items that have been tickling your fancy recently. Please include pictures and links :)

2. Make sure to link back to the party in your blog post (you can grab the button or include a text link)

3. Come back here and link up your blog post!

4. Visit some other links and HAVE FUN!

Distressed Sign from Barn Owl Primitives

Wood Calendar Chalkboard from Urban Outfitters

Surfer Cuff Leather Rope bracelet from Cheng

Now it's your turn! What's been tickling your fancy lately?

Missionary Kid Monday: Moving

2012-01-16T05:00:00.004-06:00

{For more on this series, click here}

After my traumatic sixth grade year in California was over, it was time to go back to France for another four year term.

We moved to a different region this time, to Grenoble. At first we stayed in a conference center in the Alps, owned by our missionary organization. It was about an hour away from the city, and the winding road ways were a NIGHTMARE for my motion sickness.

via

We were only supposed to be there temporarily, but my parents were having an awful time finding a house to rent. They were looking for something big, in order to accommodate large groups of people (youth groups, Bible studies, etc.), but they also needed something very affordable.

They saw dozens of houses. Some of them they even liked but were outbid by someone who was willing and able to pay more rent.

They prayed and prayed, but became very discouraged. My siblings and I started school, and still... no house.

Then one day, after about six weeks of dead ends, they came upon the perfect house. But the rent was way too high.

So my dad knocked on the door to talk to the tenants. He asked them to tell him every single thing that was wrong with the house (everything from the non-working fireplace to the minor inconveniences). Armed with that information - and much prayer - he was able to negotiate with the owners for a more reasonable rent.

And that is how we came to live here:

It doesn't look like much on the outside, but there are four stories in there (plus the basement), several bedrooms, a spacious living room, and a great backyard with a cherry tree. I can still taste those cherries! Every summer we would get gobs and gobs of them!

Do you have a favorite childhood house?

The Best of the Blogosphere

2012-01-13T08:26:00.001-06:00

As the weekend is fast approaching (and I hope you'll be enjoying a THREE DAY weekend like I will be - yahoo!!), I thought I'd share some of my favorite blog posts that I've seen this week:

via

- Six printable 2012 calendars via Delightfully Noted And they're free too!

- Custom fabric wall decal tutorial via Positively Splendid I want to do this for our nursery :)

- Six Twitter New Year Resolutions for your business via Oh My Handmade

- Ten rules for living well when life sucks via Powering Possible

- How to make a Facebook business banner via Just Lovely Things (I've got to try this!)

- Seven ways to simplify your creative work life via The Academy

- Don't Carpe Diem via Momastery - I found this to be quite thought provoking... what do you think?

- I'm trying to win a Baby Cargo Ultra Lightweight Stroller via The Bragging Mommy, and I'm also trying to win The Original Baby Bullet via Thanks, Mail Carrier! Wish me luck :)

Easy Peasy Black Bean Soup

2012-01-12T06:57:00.001-06:00

You know those nights when you just don't feel like cooking? Or those days when you swear there's nothing in your pantry? Or that last day right before payday when you feel totally broke?

Meet my favorite recipe: Black Bean and Salsa Soup

via

This recipe is originally from Allrecipes, but I've made some delicious modifications!

Here's what you'll need to do for this easy peasy (and cheap!) meal:

Ingredients:

3 (15 ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed

1 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 cup chunky salsa (or 1 can diced tomatoes and green chilies)

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Optional:

4 tablespoons sour cream

2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onion

Crushed tortilla chips

Shredded cheese

Directions:

In an electric food processor or blender, combine 2 cans of beans, broth, salsa, garlic, and cumin. Blend until fairly smooth.

Add the third can of black beans into a saucepan. Add the blended bean mixture and cook over medium heat until thoroughly heated.

Ladle soup into 4 individual bowls, and top each bowl with the optional toppings

I promise this meal does NOT taste like it came out of a can!! And it's so filling and yummy for these cold winter nights!

Documenting my pregnancy

2012-01-11T05:00:00.002-06:00

After much thought and much internet surfing, I've decided to document my pregnancy by harnessing the powers of Picnik. I'll be wearing the same green dress in all of the pictures (it's VERY roomy for when I start showing more). Here's what I have so far:

I'm kicking myself for forgetting to document any of the weeks between 7 and 14. Life got chaotically busy, but oh well. There are still many weeks to go!

Did you document your pregnancy? How did you do it?

Tickle Me Tuesday, 51st edition

2012-01-09T19:00:00.005-06:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tickle Me Tuesdays, where we all share what's been tickling our fancy!

If you'd like to participate (and you know you do!!), here are the rules:

1. Write a short post with anywhere from one to five items that have been tickling your fancy recently. Please include pictures and links :)

2. Make sure to link back to the party in your blog post (you can grab the button or include a text link)

3. Come back here and link up your blog post!

4. Visit some other links and HAVE FUN!

XOXO Angel Red Bowl

Vinyl Decal - Grass Hearts

Black Lace Leather Belt

Now it's your turn! What's been tickling your fancy lately?

Missionary Kid Monday: Making Nice

2012-01-09T05:00:00.000-06:00

{For more on this series, click here}

As I mentioned previously, I was in the sixth grade when we came back to California for a year after having lived in France for four years.

Other than a traumatic year at school, I have two other memories that stand out: church and hamburgers.

One of the main reasons we needed to come back to the States every four years was to reconnect with our supporting friends and supporting churches, as well as to make new connections with other churches and individuals.

That means that we went to a different church Every. Single. Sunday. And I would have to listen to my dad preach/speak the same message Every. Single. Sunday. Fortunately, my dad's a pretty awesome speaker. Unfortunately, that didn't stop me from being bored out of my mind. After a few months I got to where I could mouth the next words of his message. There was a lot of doodling on the back of church programs.

In addition, many kind and generous folks would want to talk to us after church. They would usually look at us kids and note "how much you've grown!" And I would think "DUH", but I had the good sense not to say it out loud....

And then .... inevitably.... came the invitation to have lunch with them. A different family every Sunday would bring us back to their home for a meal.

Such generosity.

BUT. For some reason, everyone thought that we couldn't get hamburgers and hot dogs in France. (We could and did!). So what do you think we ate Every. Single. Sunday?????? You got it.

via

And it was all I could do not to roll my pre-teen eyes and moan "Hamburgers AGAIN?!?!"

Just Because I Heart You

2012-01-06T06:40:00.000-06:00

It's FRIDAY!! (Do I hear an "amen"?) I find myself missing my vacation time... when the day of the week meant nothing to me.

I successfully survived my first week back at work after our lovely vacation in Michigan. There is something comforting about being back in our routines: waking up early, exercising, and eating right.

I'm also really excited about re-opening my shop! I'll be slowly adding new goodies from the fun stamps I got over Christmas (ahem...I have an addiction).

But for now, how about a sale? Just because I heart you. Take 20% off your order with coupon code HAPPY2012. Happy shopping!

New Mommy Fears

2012-01-05T05:00:00.001-06:00

There are two reasons for this post: 1) People have asked me to share my pregnancy journey, and 2) I want to look back on this list one day and say that it was either silly or all worth the trouble.

So here we go.... All the things freaking me out about pregnancy, giving birth, being a new parent. In no particular order:

via

Swelling to the size of a whale in the Dallas heat

Lack of sleep (I usually get between 8 and 9 hours a night - I have a feeling that's all gonna change)

The baby coming late and having to use my maternity leave during the first weeks of school

Being in labor for a really long time

Being induced

Post partum depression

Breast feeding failures

Never having another day to myself again

Being so far away from family

Going back to work: being a tired mommy and a sucky teacher

Making the wrong decision (about anything related to baby)

Diaper blowouts

Never being my skinny self again

Never reading a novel again

Being selfish

Other than seeing my baby and holding him/her for the first time, I'm not really sure what I should look forward to since this is my first time.

I realize that some things on this list are so shallow, and most of it I'll have no control over. I don't let myself dwell on any of my worries for too long - I realize there's no use! But if you want to reassure me that it's all going to be okay, feel free too, haha!

Looking Back

2012-01-04T05:00:00.001-06:00

2011 has been a fun year! Take a peek at all that happened:

- I led an effort to raise money for Amy and her family.

- I had my first shamrock shake!

- I finally found a way to keep track of my etsy sales (with help from the hubby)

- We remodeled our kitchen!!

- I had my first tent camping experience. (Yes, it rained.)

- I realized coffee tastes better with cream (my biggest "duh!" moment!)

- I started a new blog series about my life as a missionary kid in France.

- I got pregnant!!

And... we finished off 2011 with some fun family time in Michigan:

Here's to an awesome 2012!!

Tickle Me Tuesdays, 50th edition

2012-01-02T19:00:00.003-06:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tickle Me Tuesdays, where we all share what's been tickling our fancy!

If you'd like to participate (and you know you do!!), here are the rules:

1. Write a short post with anywhere from one to five items that have been tickling your fancy recently. Please include pictures and links :)

2. Make sure to link back to the party in your blog post (you can grab the button or include a text link)

3. Come back here and link up your blog post!

4. Visit some other links and HAVE FUN!

Like/Dislike Stamps

Crosley Ranchero Radio

Time and Memory Baby Book

(PS: Did you see my previous post?!)

Now it's your turn! What's been tickling your fancy lately?

Guess What? I'm....

2012-01-02T05:00:00.001-06:00

... PREGNANT!!

Here are the details:

- Married for nine years, trying since this April :)

- Due July 2nd, so I'm 14 weeks along!

- We've known since early November - it's been a hard secret to keep!

- Not much nausea at all (thankyouJesus) just some fatigue

- I still fit into my pants so not much belly to show yet :)

- And oh yeah, we're EXCITED!!

My Philosophy on Resolutions

2012-01-01T05:00:00.000-06:00

Yep, this about sums it up:

via

Enjoying Myself

2011-12-30T05:00:00.000-06:00

We've been spending a fabulous two weeks with my husband's family in Michigan. Here are some things I've been enjoying:

- ~~Reading~~ Devouring the Hunger Games Trilogy

- Hearing the crunch of snow underneath my winter boots

- Keeping warm by the fireplace

- Staying up late and sleeping in

- Homemade sushi, jalapeno poppers, and ice cream cake from DQ

- Playing dinosaurs with my 2 and a half year old nephew

- Going out to the movies

- Watching our city dog Barney have blast on our walks around the farm

- Meeting up with old friends

We head back to Michigan tomorrow - we'll do the 20-21 hour drive in one day again! Hope you all have a fabulous New Year's!!!

For New Year's Eve

2011-12-28T05:00:00.000-06:00

As far as I can remember, our New Year's Eve plans have been booooooring (yawn!) And this year is no exception.

I'm just not a night owl and we don't live near the kind of friends who are up for partying all night!

The one exception to this was the New Year's Eve of 1999. My whole family took a trip to Egypt that year to visit my best friend (whose family are also missionaries). We rung in the year 2000 on a boat in the Nile river - it was definitely something to remember!!

Are you planning a shindig to celebrate the new year? If so, I found some charming printables you might want to take a look at:

via

Happy party planning! I'll be living vicariously through all of you :)

Tickle Me Tuesday: Back Next Year

2011-12-27T05:00:00.003-06:00

I'm just popping in to say that I've been enjoying Christmas with my amazing in-law family, and that Tickle Me Tuesday will be back in January!!

Merry Christmas Eve!

2011-12-24T05:00:00.000-06:00

via

Hurrah for Christmas Eve!

Another day for shopping

For mom and dad

For bro and sis

For goodies to fill the stockings.

For all year long

We've been too busy

Just pushing the shopping date deadline

For this Blessed day out of our minds.

If we would only slow down,

Stop and remember.

The Gift is Jesus Christ,

And just loving each other

Is the best gift and prize.

D. Alsup

Re-using Your Gift Wrap

2011-12-23T05:00:00.015-06:00

Before you go tearing into your gifts this Christmas, think about repurposing all of that lovely gift wrap! Below are some of my favorite ideas:

via

Naughty or Nice?

2011-12-22T05:00:00.012-06:00

Last week, I read It's Christmas, David! with my Kindergarteners. Have you ever read this book? It's fabulous and funny to boot!

Anyways, I teach children with hearing impairments, which means they also have a significant language delay. They didn't know what "coal" was or what "naughty" meant. I had brought in some coal (a gag gift from the Dollar Tree) and they all decided that it was NOT a present they would want. The book provided plenty of examples of what "naughty" meant!

Afterwards we "wrote" (drew pictures) of what it meant to be naughty and nice.

What about you? Do you threaten your kids with reminders like "Santa's watching!!!!" And does it work?

You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch!

2011-12-21T05:00:00.002-06:00

I love reading The Grinch Who Stole Christmas to my students each year. This year, we did a fun extension activity where we wrote/drew what we would do to make the Grinch grin!

They looked a little bit like this (the fabulous Ms. Williams did this in her classroom too!):

I can't believe I forgot to take pictures of mine!

Anyways, there's lots of Grinch-themed inspiration on Etsy... take a peek:

via

PS: The lucky winner of the large ad space for Arizona Russums is Jaclyn!

Tickle Me Tuesday, 49th edition

2011-12-19T19:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tickle Me Tuesdays, where we all share what's been tickling our fancy!

If you'd like to participate (and you know you do!!), here are the rules:

1. Write a short post with anywhere from one to five items that have been tickling your fancy recently. Please include pictures and links :)

2. Make sure to link back to the party in your blog post (you can grab the button or include a text link)

3. Come back here and link up your blog post!

4. Visit some other links and HAVE FUN!

Chalk Talk Napkin Rings

Snowflake and Swirls Decal

Nutcracker Mugs

Now it's your turn! What's been tickling your fancy lately?

Missionary Kid Monday: Christmas in France

2011-12-19T05:00:00.002-06:00

{For more on this series, click here}

When we were all still little kids, my parents decided we were going to do our own thing for Christmas and not celebrate the way the French do. Mainly, my family didn't like the idea of opening gifts on Christmas Eve.

Christmas was always a pretty exciting time. Some years, our grandparents flew out to see us! With suitcases full of goodies to spoil us!! Most years, our supporters back in the States were generous in sending us packages filled with random stuff we missed from America.... like Kool Aid, ranch dressing packets, peanut butter, and Oreos.

In later years there were fewer and fewer packages from the States. And that was okay - we always felt like we had enough presents. My parents support level can wane back and forth and I remember a few years in junior high when my mom fretted that there wasn't enough under the tree.

I think that was when we put an emphasis on making Christmas last for as long as possible. First we opened up our stockings, then we had a hot breakfast, then afterwards we opened the gifts under the tree... one at a time. Nobody started opening a gift until the previous person has finished and we had all oohed and aahed!

This tradition of making the merriment last as long as possible is still going strong in our family.

Do you have any special traditions on Christmas morning?

Are We There Yet?

2011-12-16T05:00:00.000-06:00

Today is an exciting day!! Once I survive our all-day Polar Express party at school, I'll be coming home to pack up all of our clothes and Christmas presents.

We're driving to Michigan to see family tomorrow!!

It'll be a 20 to 21 hour drive (with the dog of course) and we'll most likely go straight through. I'm looking forward to this road trip: snacks, chatting, sleeping, and listening to our favorite NPR podcasts (This American Life, and Radio Lab).

I'm looking forward to the snow, a warm and cozy fireplace, spending time with my husband's family, and eating to my heart's content (because calories don't count in December, right?!)

My shop will be on vacation mode until January 3rd. I've scheduled a few blog posts till then, but don't you worry! I'll be back in January with something super secret I've been working on and some fun new designs for my store :)

O Christmas Tree

2011-12-15T05:00:00.002-06:00

For my whole life, I've only ever had a real Christmas tree, or an artificial green one. And our ornaments have always been an eclectic mix of sentimental handmade ones and random store bought ones over the years.

Have you ever done a monochromatic Christmas where you try to stick to a color scheme? The idea intrigues me. Here are some people that pulled it off really well:

via

Star Sponsor Feature: Along for the Ride

2011-12-14T14:00:00.002-06:00

Meet Laura:

Hi there! I'm Laura and I'm along for the ride. No really, I am.

Along For the Ride isn't just the name of my handmade shop and my blog, but it's how I see my walk with the Lord. I am along for the ride He has planned for me, and what a glorious ride it is!

During the day (and lots of times at night) I spend my time running a residence hall on a college campus. My husband and I live in the hall and our neighbors are 400 loud, silly, messy, wonderful college students. We have a kitty baby named Jupiter that shares our little apartment.

When I'm not working in the hall, I spend my time with a glue gun in hand, making lovely things for my shop. My motto is "keep is simple" and I try to make simple accessories that aren't too dramatic or fussy, but add just a pretty touch of whimsy to an already beautiful you.

"Keep it simple" is my motto for my life as well and I blog a lot about the simple, little, imperfect things that make life sweet.

Blog ~ Shop ~ Twitter ~ Facebook

**COUPON ALERT**

Take 20% off your order with coupon code TEACHER20

Star Sponsor Feature: Sweet Caroline

2011-12-14T10:00:00.013-06:00

Meet Caroline:

Hi Friends! My name is Caroline and I am the crazy person behind the shop Cotton Lane and the author of the blog, Good Times Never Seem Sew Good. When I'm not blogging about my life a as a newly wed, DIYs, fashion (sort of), and other tid bits, I am either busy creating fresh goodies for my handmade shop or working non stop at a local fabric store. Are you tired yet? :)

Shop ~ Twitter ~ Blog ~ Facebook

**COUPON ALERT**

Take 10% off your order with coupon code YESTEACHER10

Star Sponsor and Giveaway: The Arizona Russums CLOSED

2011-12-14T05:00:00.004-06:00

Meet Jen:

My blog is a place where I share my adventures as a newlywed living in a new state, the joys and pains of grad school, and little bits of home management advice and inspiration along the way. Mostly, it's an outlet where my I share about my faith in Jesus to encourage other women.

**GIVEAWAY ALERT**

Jen is giving away a one month large ad sponsorship on her blog!!

Here's how you can win:

MANDATORY entry:

Follow Jen's lovely blog

EXTRA entries:

+1 Like Jen on Facebook

+1 Follow Jen on Twitter

+1 Share this giveaway on Facebook or Twitter

Sample tweet: Win a FREE month of advertising with @jenrussum over on @yes_teacher 's blog!! http://tiny.cc/rukno

This giveaway is open worldwide and will end on Tuesday, Dec. 20th. Winner will be emailed and announced on this blog! Good luck!!

Tickle Me Tuesday, 48th edition

2011-12-12T19:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tickle Me Tuesdays, where we all share what's been tickling our fancy!

If you'd like to participate (and you know you do!!), here are the rules:

1. Write a short post with anywhere from one to five items that have been tickling your fancy recently. Please include pictures and links :)

2. Make sure to link back to the party in your blog post (you can grab the button or include a text link)

3. Come back here and link up your blog post!

4. Visit some other links and HAVE FUN!

White Ceramic Votive Holders

Vintage Glasses Ornaments

Reindeer Table Top Decoration

Now it's your turn! What's been tickling your fancy lately?

Missionary Kid Monday: You Know You're an MK When....

2011-12-12T05:00:00.006-06:00

Because we are caught between our parents' home culture and the cultures of one (or more) other countries, missionary kids have become their own culture. It's why some people refer to us as "Third Culture Kids".

This is a long list that's kinda famous. Some of it may even apply to you! Below, I've picked some of my favorites:

via

You know you're an MK when:

Your family sends you peanut butter and Kool-Aid for Christmas.
You think VISA is a document stamped in your passport, and not a plastic card you carry in your wallet.
You go to a church you have never been in before and find your picture on their bulletin board.
Someone asks you where you most enjoy just hanging out and you immediately think of happy hours spent in international airports.
You don't know whether to write the date as month/day/year, day/month/year, or some variation thereof.
You know how to pack.
You can't get past "Oh, say can you see ..." in the national anthem, and you have to watch to see what hand to use.
You mess-up your idioms without even thinking about it.
You feel like you need to move after you've lived in the same place for a two months.
You meet another MK, and discover that you share the same best friend.

Important Shop Announcement

2011-12-10T10:02:00.000-06:00

My shop will be on vacation mode from December 15th to January 3rd! So if you've had your eye on some cute Christmas cards or mini notes, NOW IS THE TIME!! :)

Gift Giving Traditions

2011-12-09T05:00:00.005-06:00

I inadvertently started a gift giving tradition in 2004. It was the year we were all together in California with my grandma:

See how young we all look? (And it was only seven years ago!)

This was the year I made my grandma a scrapbook calendar. To say she loved it is an understatement. Here is ooohing and aaaahing over it:

I was so pleased she was happy with the gift! But now? Now she would like a scrapbooked calendar for every Christmas! And I can't blame her because they are pretty special. But it is a lot of work... a labor of love for me as I look back on our year and collect all the photos I can.

Do you have any gift giving traditions?

The Christmas Mantel

2011-12-08T05:00:00.003-06:00

One of the things I would love in our next house is a fireplace.

With a mantel.

That I can decorate for the holidays!

But since we don't currently have one, I'm just drooling over everyone else's :). Here are a few of my faves:

via

Do you have a mantel to decorate?

Celebrating Advent

2011-12-07T05:00:00.002-06:00

One of my favorite parts of the Christmas season is counting down to the big day. When I was young, we would get the cheap chocolate advent calendars... like this one:

via

I would look forward to eating that tiny square of chocolate all day and then look longingly at the rest. When I was a freshman in college, away from the rules of my parents, I bought SIX chocolate advent calendars all for myself. I was such a goodie-two-shoes, it felt like such an act of rebellion to eat SIX squares of chocolate instead of just one!

Nowadays, there are so many beautiful ways to countdown to Christmas. Here are some of my favorites:

Vintage Style Advent Calendar from Vintage Modern Mix

Printed Pouches from Terrain

Pottery Advent Calendar from A Bit Off Center

Advent Calendar Elf from Garnet Hill

Someday when we have kids, I'm totally getting that elf!! In the meantime, I'll stick with my cheapo chocolate advent calendar - it brings back such nostalgia for me!

How do you celebrate Advent?

Tickle Me Tuesday, 47th edition

2011-12-05T19:00:00.015-06:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tickle Me Tuesdays, where we all share what's been tickling our fancy!

If you'd like to participate (and you know you do!!), here are the rules:

1. Write a short post with anywhere from one to five items that have been tickling your fancy recently. Please include pictures and links :)

2. Make sure to link back to the party in your blog post (you can grab the button or include a text link)

3. Come back here and link up your blog post!

4. Visit some other links and HAVE FUN!

Orla Kiely Travel Set

Pepper Berry Wreath

Nativity Hurricane Candle Trio

Now it's your turn! What's been tickling your fancy lately?

Missionary Kid Monday: Realizing the Awful Truth

2011-12-05T05:00:00.001-06:00

{For more on this series, click here}
The way it worked is that for every four years on the mission field, my family had to go back to the States for one full year. (There were a few reasons for this but the main one is that my parents needed to reconnect with our sending churches and individuals who supported us financially.)

The only thing that mattered to me as we prepared for our year back in California was that I was going to be in sixth grade. AND! I was going back to the school I had attended for kindergarten and first grade. A lovely Christian school.

And I was going to see all of my friends!

In my innocent mind, we would all pick up where we left off.

But that didn't happen. In fact, my "friends" had all moved on to much more grown-up things. They didn't want to play on the playground or jump rope like I had been used to doing with my French friends. Nope. My friends... who were GIRLS... just wanted to play soccer and talk to boys.

They didn't care that I had been gone for four years. They called me "Frenchie". They didn't really want anything to do with me unless they wanted someone to tease.

I was ostracized. I was confused. I clearly didn't belong here anymore.

via

I couldn't understand why I did not fit in at home anymore.

And the more the year progressed, the more I began to understand that my life was changed forever and I would never be able to go back "home" again. Yes, I understand that sounds quite dramatic, but it was the truth. A hard truth to swallow.

I knew that when we went back to France after the California year was up, we'd be going to a different region. I'd go to a different school and have to make different friends. I wasn't going "home".

So there it was, my awful truth: California wasn't my home. France wasn't my home.

Where is my home?

It's a question that all missionary kids struggle with (and I can imagine military kids do too!). It's the question that has tortured me and defined me for more than a decade.

Having to even ask and deal with that question..... started as a shock, then turned into bitter acceptance, then turned into a matter of pride, and then (I'm sad to admit) even arrogance.

But that's a post for a different time. Today I just wanted to share with you my pivotal sixth grade year!

Overwhelmed Much?

2011-12-02T05:00:00.005-06:00

I'm a bit stressed out at the moment. Feeling quite overwhelmed, actually.

There's lots I NEED to do, but can't find the time for. There's lots I WANT to do, but it's taking a backseat to my need-to-dos.

via

Ever feel like that?

And when I look at all that I meant to accomplish and didn't... it makes me feel like a failure. Like an ineffective teacher. Like a sub-par housewife. Like a bad blogger.

Fortunately, my self-worth isn't wrapped up in how many things I've crossed off my to-do list!

When I get to heaven, no one is going to ask me what my students' test scores were.

No one will ask how many times I vacuumed.

No one will ask if I was faithful in blogging five times a week.

The only thing that matters is if I've loved and served the Lord.

Let this be my number one priority!

Holiday How-To: Bring your Childhood Back

2011-12-01T05:00:00.003-06:00

How to bring back that childhood excitement on Christmas morning:

1. Have kids. If you don't have kids yet, try the following:

2. Wake up at four in the morning to sneak a peek at the Christmas tree

3. Shake a few gifts and guess what they are.

4. Leave cookies and milk out for Santa. For reals!

5. Wear a Santa hat.

6. Countdown to the big day with a CHOCOLATE advent calendar.

7. Forget about calories for just one day.

8. Wear your PJ's all day long.

9. Get out and actually PLAY in the snow!

10. Watch your favorite holiday movie - from a blanket fort in the living room and with plenty of hot chocolate!

Turkey Trot Down Memory Lane

2011-11-30T05:05:00.000-06:00

My family was in town for Thanksgiving last week - it was the first time we were all together in THREE years!

Here we are around the turkey:

Eating out at our favorite Indian fusion restaurant:

And just hanging out:

There was also lots of shopping and general silliness! I miss them all already! Hope you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving as well!!

Tickle Me Tuesday, 46th edition

2011-11-28T19:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tickle Me Tuesdays, where we all share what's been tickling our fancy!

If you'd like to participate (and you know you do!!), here are the rules:

1. Write a short post with anywhere from one to five items that have been tickling your fancy recently. Please include pictures and links :)

2. Make sure to link back to the party in your blog post (you can grab the button or include a text link)

3. Come back here and link up your blog post!

4. Visit some other links and HAVE FUN!

Black Bird Hoodie from Rainbow Swirlz

Quick Thoughts from Yellow Heart Art

Wall Shelf from Honey's Treasures

Now it's your turn! What's been tickling your fancy lately?

Missionary Kid Monday: French Church

2011-11-28T05:00:00.001-06:00

{For more on this series, click here}

I was at the same time a missionary kid and a pastor's kid. Mom and dad were B-U-S-Y on Sundays. Not that they weren't working during the rest of the week, but it was a different type of work. My dad usually preached on Sundays (spending many hours during the week ensuring that both his French and the message were great). Mom sometimes played the piano, but most often took care of Sunday school for the kids.

The Strasbourg Cathedral

(When I talk about French church, I'm not referring to those BEAUTIFUL churches that France is famous for. No. Protestant French churches meet in regular old buildings, or a series of rooms on the ground floor of some office space, or even in people's homes.)

Sundays definitely changed for me in France. Suddenly, the whole family had to be at church at least one hour beforehand to set up, and we had to stay about an hour late after the service. I had to give the bise to a lot of old ladies who I would have much rather waved to. I learned to worship in another language.

We had church people over at our house throughout the week for various Bible studies. Once, our African Grey parrot (to whom my mother had taught to say both English and French words), shouted out "N'importe quoi" after an especially spirtual point my father had just made. Everybody laughed! You'll smile too when I tell you that "N'importe quoi" means "WHATEVER".

Here's the thing that still baffles me about French church, which is true to this day. Even though I speak it fluently, even though I can read and understand the Bible in French, even though I am a mature Christian... a sermon preached in French is not as meaningful or impactful to me. It never has been, and this baffles me. I can read or hear the same spiritual words in French and English and it will only sink in when it's in English.

I have a theory that my heart doesn't speak French.

Even so, I am thankful that I had the opportunity for so many years to experience worship in a different culture, and to engage with Christians on the other side of the world!

Fabulous Black Friday HANDMADE Deals!

2011-11-25T00:05:00.004-06:00

You can click on any picture to visit the shop.
Please be sure to read ALL of the sale information below each ad before making a purchase.
Happy shopping!

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EXPIRES: 12/3
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Every purchase $45 and over gets a free 5x7 print of choice! (a $14 value! please see rules and regulations below to see if you qualify)
EXPIRES: 11/28
RULES and REGULATIONS: To qualify for free 5x7 print of choice the items in your cart must total $45 before shipping fees. If you apply your 15% off coupon code to your purchase then your order must total $45 before shipping fees AND after you apply the 15% off. If purchase is less than $45 after you apply your 15% off then you are not eligible for 5x7 print. Please leave a note in the "notes to the seller" box at check out letting me know which print you would like made into a 5x7. Offer excludes all customizable work (including blog design, logo design and customizable prints)
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Happy Thanksgiving to All

2011-11-23T05:00:00.000-06:00

via

I may be a little MIA the rest of this week as my entire family (mom, dad, brother and sister) has flown in to celebrate the holiday with us in Texas. It's the first time we've all been in the same room in THREE YEARS!!

I hope you're having a fabulous Thanksgiving too!!

Tickle Me Tuesday, 45th edition

2011-11-21T19:00:00.010-06:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tickle Me Tuesdays, where we all share what's been tickling our fancy!

If you'd like to participate (and you know you do!!), here are the rules:

1. Write a short post with anywhere from one to five items that have been tickling your fancy recently. Please include pictures and links :)

2. Make sure to link back to the party in your blog post (you can grab the button or include a text link)

3. Come back here and link up your blog post!

4. Visit some other links and HAVE FUN!

Taffeta Flower Necklace or Brooch from Mish Mash Store

Royalty Peacoat from Fransesca's Collections

Mini Paper Flowers from Flower Thyme

Now it's your turn! What's been tickling your fancy lately?

Missionary Kid Monday: Lessons Learned

2011-11-21T05:00:00.001-06:00

{For more on this series, click here}

I learned a lot of things from growing up in France, silly and serious things alike. Here's a list (not comprehensive and in no particular order):

How to give "the bise" (kiss on either cheek as a greeting) to boys without feeling awkward.
How to memorize.
How to sit at the table for long periods of time during a meal.
How to enjoy "Prince of Bel-Air" reruns when they were dubbed over in French (they really lost the whole "black" thing)
How to wear the same outfit four different ways.
How to talk quietly in public places.
How to be patient with foreigners.
How to write with a fountain pen.
How to appreciate history.
How to cuss like a sailor without realize I was doing so (oops).
How to take English as a foreign language in 7th grade and not die of boredom while my classmates learned their colors.
How to make my English teacher not feel bad about her accent.
How to eat bread. (Keep it on the table so as not to insult your hosts' tablecloth. Use your bread to help sop up sauces and dressing. Tear bits off. No butter.)
How to do Franc to Dollar conversions in my head.
How to cheer at a soccer game.

The biggest and most impactful lesson of all didn't come until the sixth grade, when we were back in California for a year. But I'm still working up the nerve to write that post. Look for it in December!

My School Turkeys

2011-11-18T05:05:00.001-06:00

We are in full turkey mode here at school. And I love it! Doing seasonal stuff with my kindergartners and first graders is such a welcome break from our regularly scheduled programming.

We've read My First Thanksgiving and I'm No Turkey.

We've written a list of things that we're thankful for.

We had our Thanksgiving Music Program on Tuesday. (The kids were both hilarious and adorable!)

And today we're making Turkey Tracks! Except we're making them with peanut butter and straight pretzel sticks (because I'm not sure about how my picky eaters will handle chow mein noodles!)

It should be messy but FUN! I am especially excited because once today is over, I have the WHOLE BLESSED WEEK off for Thanksgiving! Do I hear an Amen? :)

Giving Thanks

2011-11-17T05:00:00.004-06:00

It's a Give Thanks link up party and Thankful Thursday! What a perfect opportunity and a perfect season to remember the many reasons we have to be grateful.

Below is my short list:

Max (aka: most bestest hubby in the whole wide world):

Barney:

My job (even though it can be a total roller coaster):

Our newly remodeled kitchen:

Family coming into town for the holidays:

What are you thankful for?

How to Win Giveaways

2011-11-16T05:00:00.002-06:00

The title of this post makes it seem like a sure thing, but it's not. However! I've been entering - and winning - giveaways around the blogosphere since 2009 and I've picked up a few tricks along the way.

via

So I've decided to share my secrets with y'all (free of charge, haha!):

How to Win Giveways

1. Find them! I like Etsy Giveaways and Tip Junkie but there are tons of site that do giveaway roundups out there!

2. Read and follow the directions. Play by the rules!

3. Leave your email address in the comments (like this: johndoe at gmail dot com) OR check back on the day it ends for a winning announcement. Not all bloggers notify by email!

4. Do the extra entries. This is just basic math: probability. The more comments = the higher the likelihood that the Random Integer Generator will be your friend!

5. If you're worried about clogging your personal Facebook or Twitter account with likes and tweets, consider opening separate accounts reserved for giveaways. (Confession: I originally did this with a separate FB account and it turned into a pretty active account - I love keeping track of all of the small businesses I admire!)

6. Don't be afraid of being comment #1.

7. Avoid giveaways that have thousands of entries already. Especially if it's for something you feel ambivalent about. I only spend time on high volume entry giveaways if I reeeeeeeeeeeally want it.

8. Save time with copy/paste. If someone is giving 5 extra entries for putting their button on your blog, copy/paste your entry five times.

9. If you have a short amount of time, focus on the high value entries. Many bloggers will give 2 extra entries for spreading the word, or 5 extra entries for signing up for a newsletter.

10. Do the extra entries. Yes I know I already said that but it's worth repeating!

These are no guarantee that you'll win every time. But you may win more often! And even if/when you don't win, you'll have probably discovered a fun new blogger and a great new-to-you company or small business!

What about you? Are you "lucky"? Do you have any tips or tricks to share?

PS: Speaking of winning giveaways, the winner of the Toaster Transformations $20 gift certificate is Angie. Congrats!

Tickle Me Tuesday, 44th edition

2011-11-14T19:05:00.003-06:00

Welcome to the latest edition of Tickle Me Tuesdays, where we all share what's been tickling our fancy!

If you'd like to participate (and you know you do!!), here are the rules:

1. Write a short post with anywhere from one to five items that have been tickling your fancy recently. Please include pictures and links :)

2. Make sure to link back to the party in your blog post (you can grab the button or include a text link)

3. Come back here and link up your blog post!

4. Visit some other links and HAVE FUN!

Cardamom Bread by Happee Monkee

Owl Stamp by Tomie77

Flower Bamboo Basket from Pier One

Now it's your turn! What's been tickling your fancy lately?

Missionary Kid Monday: Spoiled

2011-11-14T05:05:00.002-06:00

{For more on this series, click here}

A few of you (from the comments of my last post) asked to see what French cursive looks like. This is the best example I've found:

via

Do you see how many of the capitals are different? Do you notice how it's not at all slanted like its American counterpart? Just confusing enough to throw me for a loop when I got back to the States.

In any case, going to school wasn't the only thing I did in France. There were many vacations. And since Europe is a pretty small area and since my parents worked from home, they took us on a lot of road trips in the summer.

We explored lots of different regions of France, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, England, and Germany. These trips would have been very expensive coming from California. But for us, it was just a day's drive, and we would often find other missionary families to stay with.

Somewhere in France - I'm on the far left!

I did not appreciate how special this was until I became an adult. I just remember whining in the back of the car ("Are we THERE yet??"). I sadly don't even remember most of these amazing trips.

I went to Barcelona when I was nine, and do you know what I remember from the entire week we were there? We found donuts. Donuts as we know them in America do not exist in Europe, so this discovery was a BIG DEAL. The culture? The sights? The architecture? It must not have made a big enough impression because I will forever equate Barcelona with DONUTS.

When my parents moved to France, they had NO IDEA of the difficulties that were ahead. They also had NO IDEA of the blessings ahead either. Our lives were made richer because they obeyed God's calling. I clearly remember hearing my dad say on one such trip: "I can't believe I'm skiing in the Alps right now!!"

It's difficult to talk to people about this aspect of our missionary lives. I worry people will think it was just one big vacation over there. It wasn't. It was hard, discouraging work to bring the gospel to a nation of people who were convinced they didn't need it.

But the blessings...... oh, the blessings!

For me and for you!

2011-11-11T05:00:00.001-06:00

It's so nice to know that I'm not just talking to myself when I blog! That's why I love your comments, and that's why I was happy to receive the Kreativ Blogger Award from Melissa!

Rules of the award: To share seven things about yourself and award seven more bloggers this award. Be sure to let them know you awarded them so they can pass it on!

Here we go, seven random things:

1. I can pretty much only wear leather shoes or my feet hurt too much.
2. I'm growing out my hair because my hubby likes it long (what is it with guys?!)
3. I wake up at 5:15 AM every single day, even on the weekends. (Exception: summer break)
4. I can't stand shows like The Bachelor. It's all rigged, I'm convinced!
5. I could live off of bread and cheese.
6. I want a turret in my next house :)
7. I eat the same thing for breakfast, and the same thing for lunch every day!

And now, to pass it on to seven other lovely bloggers:

Moonbeam Wishes
The Hairy Peach
My Life under the Bus
So Many Memories
Something Monumental
And They Shall Become One
Eager Hands

Have a lovely weekend, everyone!

Dining in the Dining Room

2011-11-10T05:00:00.001-06:00

Be honest... do you actually eat at your dining room table? Maybe if you have kids you do. But my husband and I are guilty of eating on the couch in front of the TV. We save the dining room table for ~~our mail~~ when company comes over.

When we first moved here, we spent months looking for the perfect dining room table. Do you know where we found it (of all places!)?? COSTCO. Yes, Costco. We love it there, and we love our Costco table!

I had a lot of fun creating the art to hang above the table (check out my tutorial here):

And I've had my eye on some table runners for a while now:

1. 2. 3. 4.

What about you? Do you eat in your dining room?

Giveaway from Toaster's Transformations!

2011-11-09T05:00:00.005-06:00

Meet Amanda from Toaster's Transformations!

Amanda blogs over here and sells lovely goodies in her shop: from wreaths to bags to headbands to shoe clips to necklaces! Take a peek at all the loveliness:

... And lucky you! Today Amanda is giving away $20 gift certificate to her store!

Here's how you can win:

MANDATORY entry:

Visit Toaster's Transformations and leave a comment here with your favorite item. Please include a way for me to contact you

EXTRA entries:

+1 Follow Amanda's blog

+1 Heart Amanda's shop

+1 Like her on Facebook

+1 Follow her on Twitter

+1 Share this giveaway on Facebook and/or Twitter (1 entry for each)

Sample tweet: You can win a $20 gift certificate for some fabulous accessories from @Toaster4JC over on @yes_teacher 's blog http://tiny.cc/gqyg3

Don't want to wait to win? You can score some pretty lovelies with free shipping with coupon code YESFREESHIP

Giveaway open to US residents only. Ends on Tuesday 11/15 at 11:59 PM. Winner will be notified via email as well as announced here! Good luck!

Yes, Teacher!

Missionary Kid Monday: A Whole New World

We're Having a ......

Pretty Pantries

My Undying Gratitude

Tickle Me Tuesdays, 55th edition

Missionary Kid Monday: The Promised Land

Baby Book

Valentine's Day Rice Krispie Treats

Baby DIY Projects

Tickle Me Tuesdays, 54th edition

2012 New Year Blogging Party

Baby Update: Boy or Girl?

Lovely Lust-Haves: Scarves

Sponsor in February

From the Crockpot

Tickle Me Tuesdays, 53rd edition

Missionary Kid Monday: English Camp

Lovely Lust-Haves: Retro Kitchens

In the Bedroom

New Mamma Reading

Tickle Me Tuesdays, 52nd edition

Missionary Kid Monday: Moving

The Best of the Blogosphere

Easy Peasy Black Bean Soup

Documenting my pregnancy

Tickle Me Tuesday, 51st edition

Missionary Kid Monday: Making Nice

Just Because I Heart You

New Mommy Fears

Looking Back

Tickle Me Tuesdays, 50th edition

Guess What? I'm....

My Philosophy on Resolutions

Enjoying Myself

For New Year's Eve

Tickle Me Tuesday: Back Next Year

Merry Christmas Eve!

Re-using Your Gift Wrap

Naughty or Nice?

You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch!

Tickle Me Tuesday, 49th edition

Missionary Kid Monday: Christmas in France

Are We There Yet?

O Christmas Tree

Star Sponsor Feature: Along for the Ride

Star Sponsor Feature: Sweet Caroline

Star Sponsor and Giveaway: The Arizona Russums **CLOSED**

Tickle Me Tuesday, 48th edition

Missionary Kid Monday: You Know You're an MK When....

Important Shop Announcement

Gift Giving Traditions

The Christmas Mantel

Celebrating Advent

Tickle Me Tuesday, 47th edition

Missionary Kid Monday: Realizing the Awful Truth

Overwhelmed Much?

Holiday How-To: Bring your Childhood Back

Turkey Trot Down Memory Lane

Tickle Me Tuesday, 46th edition

Missionary Kid Monday: French Church

Fabulous Black Friday HANDMADE Deals!

Happy Thanksgiving to All

Tickle Me Tuesday, 45th edition

Missionary Kid Monday: Lessons Learned

My School Turkeys

Giving Thanks

How to Win Giveaways

Tickle Me Tuesday, 44th edition

Missionary Kid Monday: Spoiled

For me and for you!

Dining in the Dining Room

Giveaway from Toaster's Transformations!

Star Sponsor and Giveaway: The Arizona Russums CLOSED