Hello Stranger....it's been a while

I'm a bit embarrassed that it's been almost 4 years since I've written here. Frankly, there is no excuse. I lost the desire to write "online" and I'm not really sure why. I've kept up with my journal at home and I write at least every other day. My life was a roller coaster of sorts these past few years and I had so many things to write about. Funny thing is, when I started this blog, I was so focused on just writing about the "good stuff". But then it felt inauthentic because I had so many things going on in my life that I could have shared and possibly received some good feedback or advice. If nothing else, it would have made me feel less alone. So, that's kind of where it ended. I left Pennsylvania in 2015 and that was the last time I wrote here. I've been in New Orleans ever since and I've had quite a journey.... I'm hoping that I can get back into writing here again. If for nothing else - to feel less alone. So welcome once again.

JULY 31, 2015

We're leaving on a jet plane......

July 31 2015. Last Day in Pennsylvania. New Orleans, here we come. 

I'm the Boss...

I took on this challenge in December of 2014. I was having a hard time finding that perfect job that would keep me creative and be able to be home with my children when they need me. That was my first priority. I want to be able to stay home when one of them are sick, or when there is no school, or if they need to be picked up early. I didn't want to have to ask someone for their permission and then leave with the fear of not having a job when I got back. I am a Mom first and as much as I would love to have all the money in the world, I can't put a price on these precious but short moments I have with them.

So in some sheer coincidence, I started looking for groups on facebook about journaling and such....I came across a planner group, and another one, and another one. I had no idea that the planner worls was huge. On steroids, huge! I thought, I'd like to do that with my planner. Make it a scrapbook of sorts. I started making my own accessories and posted them for people to see. I kept getting requests and orders. $10 bucks here and there can't hurt, right? Before I know it, I have an etsy store. All of a sudden, I am home working while still taking care of my kids and my home. I am happy with this arrangement. Right now, my basement is my office - and I am slowly but surely decorating it to be a place I love.

Pictured above is two days worth of work. Not bad huh?

So Many Changes....

This year has brought so many changes in our lives. We've lived in our double since we've been here and now we're going to move in to our own home. Also, Jordan started college this year and Joey started a new school and he's now in the 2nd grade. Time is definitely flying fast here. Lots of progress though, so I can't complain.

This is our new home :) It's a perfect size for us. It has 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, a driveway and a two car garage, and a nice size yard. Perfect fit for my little family.

I have been looking at this for the last month, thank God it's almost over. Move in is coming up soon!

My little guy in 2nd grade :)It's so amazing to me how resilient this little guy is. He's gone through so many changes in his short life but through it all - he remains happy. So proud of him!

My first born now in college. Where did the time go? It's hard to a parent to let go. We raise them to be independent and self sufficient, but deep down we want them to always need us. I have days when I still see that little baby who was so content to just hang out with Momma.... 

Philadelphia Zoo

High school is over!

So proud of my boy! Off to college..

So happy that my family was here to witness this special occasion in Jordan's life. 

It's over. He made it. Now another four years and we get to do another graduation, hopefully!

The weather was dreary that day but the rained held out until everyone's name was announced and the kid threw their caps in the air. As you can see, kid #2 was pooped by the time it was over!

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2014!!!!

OIF AND OEF KNOEBELS DAY

Beautiful day at knoebels. Every year, the VA hosts a day to celebrate the homecoming of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM AND OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM soldiers. It's a way for them to say thank you for your service.
The boys and I had such a great time....