tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1423481960227327262023-11-15T07:47:01.882-08:00House of LyonsJordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.comBlogger125125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-12651806022023708012012-10-18T15:41:00.000-07:002013-09-28T12:42:16.048-07:00Home Sweet HomeIt has been about a month and a half since we have been back in Spring Hill and in so many ways it feels like we never left!! The hardest thing so far? Getting Charlotte to stop saying "my old... such and such" and just call it her library or park or grocery store. haha The only "old" thing she has in SH is her old house she spent her first 2.5 years in. We talk about that house and drive by it often :)<br/><br/>One thing I was worried about is that life for many friends in SH would have moved on and we would feel left behind - I'm very thankful that that isn't the case! Yes, kids are grown up a little more and life has changed, but thanks to social media and the fact that we visited SH and The Bridge so often while in AL, it really helped to bridge that 11 month gap.<br/><br/>Something I was really looking forward to getting back into when we moved home, was doing 'life' with friends and family on a daily and weekly basis. Boy have we! When we moved to Huntsville, I was done unpacking and decorating in about 3 weeks (I had no reason to leave the house!) Now with this house, I'm not even finished and we have been here over 6 weeks! Charlotte and I have had play dates, park visits, library story time, gymnastics, bible study, House Group, visits with Nan and G - and we have LOVED every minute of it!! We also love having Jeff working from home again :) On his slower days, we have enjoyed lunches out, trips to the park, shopping, and just hanging out as a family. It's great to be home.<br/><br/>Even though the house is not 100% done (and probably won't be for months or years with all the things we want to change!) I am finally at a point where I'm happy to share pictures with the world wide web. I know many of my friends across the country, and across the world, have been wanting to see our new digs! I'll post some here, but most will be over on Facebook, so visit the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152210466525595.923546.901595594&type=3">album</a> there too :)<br/><br/>Some details on the house: it's a 5 year old, 2 story house with a french country style exterior. We have 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a bonus room, and loft. Charlotte is very excited to have her own playset outback too! We have enjoyed our neighborhood so far -all the homes are unique, it's a great location (just about a mile from our old SH place) and a lot of young families live here. All the room colors remained the same except for Jeff's office. I may want to change some at some point, but for the most part, I'm glad we only had to do some touch ups - even that took a full weekend.<br/><br/>We are currently in a bit of a unexpected battle over the remainder of the neighborhood with the developer - there are only 30 homes built and another 70+ lots left to go - and he wants to build rental town homes/aka apartments! That's a whole long story but there ya go! Totally not excited about this coming about a month into our home ownership, but it's been a great way to meet the neighbors :)<br/><br/>Anyway, on to what you want: pictures!! I'll walk you though the house<br/><br/>First up - the front of the house<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1393" rel="attachment wp-att-1393"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1393" title="IMG_5504" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5504-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1394" rel="attachment wp-att-1394"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1394" title="IMG_5389" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5389-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>Walk through the front door into the Living Room, I love the 2 story ceiling with loft! We still need window treatments, want to change out the furniture, and will eventually hang a tv down there, but I'm happy with it now! You can see the dining room behind... the empty dining room! Need furniture for that one too :) (everything looks very yellow in the picture, it's a tan paint)<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1376" rel="attachment wp-att-1376"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1376" title="IMG_5928" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5928-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1378" rel="attachment wp-att-1378"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1378" title="IMG_5923" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5923-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>The next room is the kitchen. I like that it is open enough to the living and dining room but my dirty dishes aren't "in your face" when you walk in the door! We love bay window and our new kitchen table and chairs and the new fridge! And yes, still need window treatments (you'll see a theme soon...) Pardon the crock pot and paper products, our House Group was at our house the night I took the pictures. (and yes, this room is a yellow/golden color)<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1390" rel="attachment wp-att-1390"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1390" title="IMG_5916" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5916-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1385" rel="attachment wp-att-1385"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1385" title="IMG_5919" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5919-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1382" rel="attachment wp-att-1382"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1382" title="IMG_5921" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5921-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>Down the hall from the kitchen is the half bath and garage.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1381" rel="attachment wp-att-1381"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1381" title="IMG_5912" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5912-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/>Then further down the hall is our Master bedroom. This room needs a total re-do!! I love the new bedding that we got (it's chocolate in color, has a "ruched" effect) and the tray ceiling with rope lighting. We need furniture, window treatments, artwork, and maybe new paint. Total project room. I do like the master bath, it is a chocolate paint color with subtle glossy stripes. I have drapes to hang and need to add a few more decorative touches.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1377" rel="attachment wp-att-1377"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1377" title="IMG_5914" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5914-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1384" rel="attachment wp-att-1384"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1384" title="IMG_5906" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5906-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/>Heading upstairs!! Love the view from the top. It also is great for sound - I was a little worried about the 2 story thing, I really loved how connected we all felt with our 1 story in AL, but it is so open I still feel connected whenever we are upstairs or down. And speaking of sound - one of Jeff's favorite features? In home audio! I love having speakers throughout the house so we can enjoy it room to room.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1392" rel="attachment wp-att-1392"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1392" title="IMG_5944" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5944-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/>At the top of the stairs, on the other side of the half wall, is Charlotte's playroom. Another reason I love this floorplan - all the toys are upstairs and out of the way but I can hear her and talk to her when I'm in the kitchen and such.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1388" rel="attachment wp-att-1388"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1388" title="IMG_5963" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5963-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/>First room down the hall is Jeff's office. He chose a great blue/grey color for the walls. It's very cozy :) All he needs is some window treatments - and maybe a new high tech desk.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1380" rel="attachment wp-att-1380"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1380" title="IMG_5940" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5940-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/>Next up is Charlotte's room! It was already painted the lime green color, and it perfectly matched the bedding that we got for her 3rd birthday/big girl room. How adorable!<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1389" rel="attachment wp-att-1389"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1389" title="IMG_5747" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5747-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/>We have a full bath upstairs, need to find another piece of artwork but otherwise I'm happy with it.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1379" rel="attachment wp-att-1379"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1379" title="IMG_5937" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5937-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/>Across from the bath is our guest room. I'm so glad to have an official guest room! We have had a sofa bed in the loft, and a twin bed in the playroom in the last 2 houses. I have drapes and side table/shelf thing to put in still, but for now all my pictures for the hallway are laid out on the bed until I hang them up! :) The guest room will be better put together than our master!<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1383" rel="attachment wp-att-1383"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1383" title="IMG_5936" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5936-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/>Finally, our favorite room! Our rec room/theatre/TV room/bonus room. Jeff wants to get a projector, we still have window treatments to get, and some new chairs. Oh, and our door! The entrance is a doorway that has a step down in the hallway, so it's an odd 8ft or so high. Our solution is hopefully going to be a sliding "barn door" type thing. I'll def post pics once it's done! But, I LOVE our couch and the bookcases we put behind it!!<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1391" rel="attachment wp-att-1391"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1391" title="IMG_5931" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5931-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1386" rel="attachment wp-att-1386"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1386" title="IMG_5935" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5935-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/>That's it for the inside , the final pics are of the back (unless you visit my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152210466525595.923546.901595594&type=3">FB album</a>!) - We inherited the swing set from the previous owner, Charlotte calls it her playground :) I enjoy the fenced in backyard - I can send her out to swing and slide while I am cooking dinner with the windows open. I know it seems silly, but I love our back patio - it is raised like a deck, but is poured aggregate with a vinyl railing so it is totally maintenance free (which is totally what we need!!)<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1387" rel="attachment wp-att-1387"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1387" title="IMG_5957" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_5957-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/>So there it is! Love our new house, being back in Spring Hill - can't say it enough :) :) :)<br/><br/> Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-32358287332513827762012-08-22T09:34:00.000-07:002013-09-28T12:42:16.042-07:00We're Moving Back to Spring Hill!!Hello blogging world - if you are still around! I know it has been forever - I seem to be very hit or miss with House of Lyons! I had to get back on today to share some fabulous news - We are moving back to Spring Hill, TN!<br/><br/>As you probably know, my little family moved to Huntsville AL from Spring Hill in Oct 2011. Jeff had a great job offer and we couldn't turn it down. We have enjoyed our time in Huntsville - it hasn't felt like almost a year at all. Jeff enjoyed working for Baron, Charlotte and I joined a local MOPS group and got to know some fun places in Huntsville, and we enjoyed living in the home we are renting. But after about 6-8 months, we realized how much Spring Hill really had become our home, how much we missed it, and that we really wanted to find a way to get back. Then an opportunity presented itself to Jeff and we just couldn't say no!! Jeff will be resuming full time self employment with his company <a href="http://www.lightandstory.com">Light and Story</a> and has some great contract work for a current client heading his way. Charlotte and I are very excited that Jeff will be working at home again!<br/><br/>If you are on twitter or facebook, you saw that we purchased a house yesterday! We are moving to 1095 Achiever Cir - it is in Port Royal Estates. We love the home inside and out and can't wait to move it. Speaking of moving in - September 1st is our move in day! Just 10 days away! It may seem like sudden news that we bought a house and are moving in just 10 days, but believe me, it has been quite the process!! Because of the social media we all know and love, we just weren't ready to announce our plans until we were able to make proper notifications our landlord and Jeff's Huntsville employer. And we couldn't do that until we knew where we were gonna be living and when his new client would be great to start working together. Can you tell there were a lot of cogs in this little plan!? Regardless, they are all settled now and ready to go!<br/><br/>We are ready to get back involved with <a href="http://www.bridgesh.com">The Bridge Church</a> and it's small groups and bible studies, C and I will be joining a local MOPS group, we'll spend more time with our Spring Hill family, be closer to our KY family and friends, Charlotte is also hoping to start gymnastics soon, and of course we can't wait to reconnect with our friends in TN! I know things have changed for us and everyone else over the past 11 months, but in so many ways I am ready to step back in to our life in Spring Hill.<br/><br/>I think that is probably about it for now - follow me on twitter or FB for updates. Now that I can finally start talking about the move, you better bet I will be updating a lot!! And I'll post pics of the new house with all our stuff in it once it gets pretty looking :) For now, I'll post a couple photos from when it was listed for sell (with the sellers items in it) and you can check out this <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtRt-jNE8oM&feature=youtube_gdata_player">video</a> as well. Talk to you soon!<br/><br/>[gallery order="DESC"]Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-43339478062194224362012-04-30T08:00:00.000-07:002013-09-28T12:42:16.035-07:00A Pinterest Post for MomI know I am totally behind on blogging about our family and Charlotte, I'll have to be a little more behind cause this post is for my mom! She was very proud of her latest project and wanted to put it on Pinterest but didn't know how. I offered to put up a quick blog and pictures for her and "pin" it for her :) So here goes!<br/><br/>My parents are doing a bit of a Master Bedroom redecoration (largely IKEA based!) and my Mom came up with this great idea for some shelving. My Mom has an old sewing machine that she displayed family photos on for as long as I could remember, but it didn't really match up with her new contemporary IKEA chairs. So, it was time to find a new way to display the photos.<br/><br/>There is an unused little corner between two big windows that could house some shelves, but mom wanted to do something a little different than just one shelf a few inches above the next shelf, etc. This is her solution! (apologies, I don't have any "before" or "in process" photos)<br/><br/>She purchased different shelves of varying styles and depths, that would all be about the same width to fit in the space. She hung them alternating between the walls. By doing this, it took up a lot more visual space, gave more space to house the photos, and was very visually appealing.<br/><br/>Overall, I think she had a great idea and executed it very well! It is a wonderful centerpiece to this reading nook in my parents master bedroom. We just wanted to share the photos, and maybe inspire you to hang your shelves in a little different way! Enjoy :)<br/><br/> <br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1346" rel="attachment wp-att-1346"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1346" title="1" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_4458-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1347" rel="attachment wp-att-1347"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1347" title="2" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_4457-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1348" rel="attachment wp-att-1348"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1348" title="3" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_4456-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1349" rel="attachment wp-att-1349"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1349" title="4" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_4455-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-41195950325588204432012-03-06T08:26:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:16.028-07:00Trip #2Less than a week after our <a title="Trip #1" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?p=1314">Trip #1</a>, C and I hit the road AGAIN! This one took a lot of planning, especially in packing. We/I traveled 4 states in 4 days! All so I could see my sister Hannah and attend her concert at University of Cincinnati: College Conservatory of Music - and it was totally worth it!! :)<br/><br/>Wednesday night C and I had a quick dinner with Jeff and hit the road. We got to my parents house just in time to put Charlotte down for bedtime. The next morning, we loaded up and got on I65 to Bowling Green KY. We weren't gonna subject Charlotte to our Cincinnati whirlwind trip, and she was more than thrilled to stay with her Granna and Grandad for the night. They went shopping, ate and played at Chick Fil A, had a sleepover with cousin Reese and caused all kinds of trouble, I'm sure! She is still talking about her little trip. :)<br/><br/>Mom, Dad, and I kept driving north until we got to Cincinnati OH! Thankfully, we were able to stay ahead of all the storms and tornados. It was a hard knowing that Jeff was in AL, Charlotte was in KY, we had family in both KY and TN, and we were in OH to visit Hannah. All these states had tornados, hail, and rain traveling through. We all came out of it untouched other than a power outage.<br/><br/>Hannah had no clue that I was coming up with Mom and Dad, so it was great being able to knock on her door and see her face as she opened it! I loved seeing where she is spending her 2 years of graduate school. Her apartment is super cute and the CU campus is beautiful!<br/><br/>Before her concert, we had time to go to dinner - PF Changs!! One of my favorite places - spring rolls and chicken fried rice - double yum. I missed Jeff and Charlotte, but it was great catching up as the Shoopman family of 4.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1332" rel="attachment wp-att-1332"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1332" title="pf " src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3971-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>Our evening was capped off by a lovely Orchestra concert by CCM. Hannah played principal oboe in the firs<br/><br/>t half of the concert - it's great being able to go to a concert and hear her great solos!! Now, classical music isn't really my thing, but if Hannah is playing, I know it's gonna be a good one :)<br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1333" rel="attachment wp-att-1333"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1333" title="concert" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3974-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>The next day, we all had breakfast at our hotel and found something wonderful to do with the rest of our day - IKEA!! I've never been but always wanted to go. Amazing place!!<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1334" rel="attachment wp-att-1334"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1334" title="IMG_3978" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3978-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>I had looked online before and thought their stuff was well priced, but never knew how great the quality was as well. It is just as good as most furniture stores we've looked at, but so much more affordable - not to mention, super cute. We were all in awe as we walked around - taking pictures of so much that we loved.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1330" rel="attachment wp-att-1330"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1330" title="IMG_4012" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4012-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><p style="text-align: center;">Mom is trying out a great recliner that does not look like a recliner! yay!</p><br/>I started making plans on what to buy for our next house :) I'm starting to pin things <a title="pinboard" href="http://pinterest.com/jordanrlyons/my-ikea-shopping-list/">here</a> to keep track of what I want. Like this:<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1336" rel="attachment wp-att-1336"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1336" title="IMG_3992" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3992-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>Mom, Dad, and Hannah each found a chair to get - $69 bucks and totally comfortable.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1338" rel="attachment wp-att-1338"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1338" title="IMG_4007" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4007-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>I was amazed at the size of everything - here is the area you go to pick up the furniture that you want to buy:<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1331" rel="attachment wp-att-1331"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1331" title="IMG_4048" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4048-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>Of course almost everything I got was for Charlotte - a great car rug for $14, finger puppets for $4, and an awesome paper roll for C's coloring for $11.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1339" rel="attachment wp-att-1339"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1339" title="IMG_4052" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4052-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1329" rel="attachment wp-att-1329"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1329" title="IMG_4056" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4056-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>After our morning of shopping, we grabbed some mexican for lunch, and Greaters ice cream before we had to say our goodbyes. It was so great seeing Hannah. I'm excited that she is gonna be down for spring break in just a couple weeks!<br/><br/>We drove back to KY, picked up Charlotte, stopped in to visit Nana (who is still in the hospital), stopped at Zaxby's for dinner, and all collapsed into bed! Sunday we had a little bit of a lazy morning and then headed back to AL. Now we get a couple week break before hitting the pavement again :) See you next time!<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1337" rel="attachment wp-att-1337"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1337" title="IMG_4051" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_4051-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><p style="text-align: center;">It was a beautiful day for a drive home Sunday morning!</p>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-66894840230067606512012-03-06T07:20:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:16.022-07:00Trip #1I never seem to blog enough so then I have huge "round up" posts - guess you can settle in and catch up!!<br/><br/>The past 2 weeks, Charlotte and I have made 2 trips north! We are looking forward to a couple weeks at home before Jeff travels to Brunei (on the island of Malasia) for a work trip for about 10 days. When that happens, Charlotte and I are planning to take some long trips to KY and TN to keep company with friends and family :) Anyway, back to our first trip.<br/><br/>Jeff had a long week at work, plus a lot of freelance video work to do the week of Feb 20th, so that Thursday - Saturday, Charlotte and I decided to visit Spring Hill. It actually worked out perfectly, that Thursday morning, my grandmother fell in her home and had to be taken to the hospital. My dad was in Seattle and my mom was stuck at work, so since I was actually heading up to visit her that morning, I took a detour to the hospital instead. Since spending hours at the hospital wasn't great for a 3 year old, my dear friend Allison let me drop Charlotte off at her house to spend the day. I was glad I was able to be with Nana in the ER., she was dehydrated, among other things, so she was pretty loopy and weak. Though it was not the exact way I wanted to visit her, it was the best thing I could have done for her. After she was moved upstairs to her permanent room, I left so she could get some rest.<br/><br/>At that point, C had just laid down for her nap, so I went ahead to Encores Consignment sale to stock up on clothes and toys for the upcoming season. I do this twice a year, and was really glad I could schedule a TN trip during the sale. Before we left, Charlotte was very patient with me and let me try on all of her summer clothes that were 2T so I could make a list of things she'll need. :)<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1317" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-width: 0px;" title="IMG_3930" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3930-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /><br/><div><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1323" rel="attachment wp-att-1323"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1323" title="IMG_3937" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3937-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><p style="text-align: center;">I aways take pictures of the clothes that still fit, so I can match the new stuff!</p><br/>My mom got off work and picked C up at Allison's house so I had a little more free time to myself!! After Encores, I went to get my haircut. I had it straightened with my new Wet to Dry straightener so wanted to get it dry cut so I'd know what it would look like straight. During the haircut, I was told I have thin hair, seriously?? I always thought of my hair as think and wavy - it is as a whole, but apparently each hair is actually thin. The hair dresser said I need to use a leave in conditioner to make it silkier and shinier. I always wanted that, but thought my dried out/somewhat frizzy hair was just how it is. After she put on that conditioner, I was sold! My hair looked and felt so much better. I never buy the products they suggest but I did this time. How did I go 28 years and never know this!? Yay for new hair! haha Afterward, I headed back to my parents house to spend the night. Mom and I were both worn out and watched Water for Elephants - it was a wonderful movie!<br/><br/>The next day, we meet Allison and her kiddos Hazen and Laney at Let It Shine Gymnastics. On Fridays, they have open play for an hour, for $5 bucks the kids get to jump on trampolines, try out some of the gymnastics equipment and have a good time getting some energy out!! Charlotte loved it all! I am hoping the next trip to Spring Hill will be on a friday so we can go again!!<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1318" rel="attachment wp-att-1318"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1318" title="IMG_3957" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3957-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><p style="text-align: center;">Falling in the foam blocks</p><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1319" rel="attachment wp-att-1319"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1319" title="IMG_3951" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3951-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><p style="text-align: center;">Running down the super long trampoline</p><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1320" rel="attachment wp-att-1320"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1320" title="IMG_3950" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3950-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><p style="text-align: center;">Rolling down the mats</p><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1321" rel="attachment wp-att-1321"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1321" title="IMG_3949" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3949-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>Mom took Charlotte home afterwards and let me have even more "me" time!! I wasn't as successful at the Encores sale as I had hoped, so I visited the consignment shop in town "Here We Grow Again" and found a few things there. My next stop was Goodwill - and I always find good stuff there! Clothes for C, a shirt for jeff, and of course new toys. I can't help but buy stuff for Charlotte. I never find anything for myself. I guess that is part of being a mom!<br/><br/>We spent Saturday with my Dad and just had a little trip to the library (as Charlotte calls it, her "old" library) to play with the trains.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1324" rel="attachment wp-att-1324"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1324" title="IMG_3964" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3964-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>All in all, it was a busy but wonderful visit home!<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1322" rel="attachment wp-att-1322"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1322" title="IMG_3965" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_3965-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/></div>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-22774942032348167372012-02-14T06:30:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:16.007-07:00Valentines Baking: Sweet and BittersweetJeff and I have never been huge gotta-celebrate-Valentines-Day people (ironic since our first official date was on Valentines Day - you'd think we'd be ones to celebrate!) Oh, and today would have been Charlotte's birthday if she miraculously came on time, ha :)<br/><br/>This year, we had a MOPS (Mother's Of PreSchoolers group) Valentines party, and had to bring snacks inspired by the day of love ;) Since our meeting is 9-11am, I wanted to do something a little more breakfast friendly, so got a mix of Banana Bread Muffins. I found <a href="http://www.musesofmegret.com/2009/02/12/valentines-day-hack-make-heart-shaped-cupcakes-with-a-regular-tin/">this great idea</a> on Pinterest (of course!) on how to make your muffins or cupcakes heart shaped and voila, Valentines Ready! All you do is stick a marble beside the muffin paper in the tin, and when the muffins bake up, they turn into hearts!<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1308" rel="attachment wp-att-1308"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1308" title="IMG_3814" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3814-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1302" rel="attachment wp-att-1302"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1302" title="IMG_3815" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3815-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>They weren't perfect looking hearts, but they did the job.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1300" rel="attachment wp-att-1300"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1300" title="IMG_3817" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3817-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>(It isn't baking related, but at MOPS we decorated onsies for the local hospitals NICU! Aren't they adorable!<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1299" rel="attachment wp-att-1299"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1299" title="IMG_3818" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3818-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>We had a mix of iron-ons, stamps, and puff paint. It was great fun and a good cause!)<br/><br/>We ended having so much food and so many leftovers, I had a ton of them to take home (the mix made 24) And we won't eat that many muffins! So I decided to send them to work with Jeff. I was afraid they would dry out overnight, so I tried this Pinterest idea to put a slice of bread on top of your cake (I figured it would work with muffins) and the bread will dry out but your baked goods wouldn't. It actually worked! So I sent Jeff off with the bowl of muffins this morning. :)<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1301" rel="attachment wp-att-1301"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1301" title="IMG_3816" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3816-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>Our romantic plans tonight will include a spaghetti dinner with Charlotte, and then watching Breaking Dawn once she goes to bed. (you're jealous, I know) But I did want to do something special for dessert. We have a heart shaped cookie cutter that we use for Charlotte's play doh, so I cleaned it off and decided we could bake heart shaped sugar cookies. I also wanted to make Jeff's favorite Peanut Butter Pie for our movie time. So that was my plan this morning...<br/><br/>First up, Peanut Butter Pie. Got the recipe out and realized I didn't have the cool whip needed. Scratch that plan. I looked on Pinterest on my Yummy Board for something that I could cook using ingredients I already have, namely that grahman cracker crust originally meant for the pie. I found this great <a href="http://brandysbaking.blogspot.com/2011/06/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-cheesecake.html">Chocolate Chip Cheesecake bar</a> I figured I could put it into a pie shell instead of the 8x8 pan. We got out all the ingredients, Charlotte helped my measure and dump stuff in. I got through the first 5 ingredients and realized I had more than doubled the amount of brown sugar needed. No way to salvage, so I dumped it out and started again.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1307" rel="attachment wp-att-1307"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1307" title="IMG_3826" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3826-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>This time I triple checked my measurements, but apparently was paying so much attention to that, I forgot to read the directions. I was supposed to stir it all together, THEN add the flour, THEN add the chocolate chips. I had it all in the bowl together and tried to mix it. Did not work well at all.<a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1306" rel="attachment wp-att-1306"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1306" title="IMG_3825" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3825-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>I gave up at this point. Charlotte even gave me a hug cause she knew I was frustrated. I wasn't gonna attempted it AGAIN, I don't have enough butter to do this over and over! I may attempt it again while Charlotte naps and I can fully concentrate. Blah. Looks like we may only have sugar cookies for dinner... oh wait, those had their own FAIL!<br/><br/>I used Betty Crocker Cookie Mix for the sugar cookies (I swear by her dry mixes! They make great cookies and all you add is butter and egg!) There is a version to make cut out cookies, so I added the needed flour to the mix with the butter and egg. Turns out, I was supposed to put the flour in alone with the dry mix, combine those, then add the egg and butter. I figured they would still work. We laid out the dough and did our heart cut outs!<a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1298" rel="attachment wp-att-1298"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1298" title="IMG_3821" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3821-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1303" rel="attachment wp-att-1303"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1303" title="IMG_3822" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3822-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>Sadly, they weren't solid or thick enough to pick up from the cutting board (yes, I dusted it with flour) and put on the pans. So, change of plans again, we rolled them up instead and baked them regular.<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1304" rel="attachment wp-att-1304"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1304" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-width: 0px;" title="IMG_3823" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3823-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>After they baked, we sprinkled sugar and pink sprinkles on them and called it done. Still tasty, but not very cute :(<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1305" rel="attachment wp-att-1305"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1305" title="IMG_3824" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3824-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/> <br/><br/>Well, it's time to go fix lunch. It may seem silly to have blogged about all this, but I was frustrated! and my 140 character limit for Twitter just wasn't going to cut it. Maybe I'll just give up on baking anything that does not come out of a box.<br/><br/> Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-25109010985307969292012-02-06T08:49:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:16.000-07:00More Pinterest Recipes!I have been cooking up a storm thanks to Pinterest! I have had some frustrating moments with things that don't turn out like they are supposed to, or recipes that aren't as specific as I need them to be. But overall, it has been great adding things to our menu, I'm hoping I'll keep them in our rotation.<br/><br/>The first recipe that will definitely be sticking around, is <a href="http://makinglifedelicious.com/2011/05/02/omas-sour-cream-chicken/">Sour Cream Chicken</a>! It was really easy to make, and had the perfect blend of crunchy stuffing on top, and very juicy chicken. I usually don't go back for 2nds and I did for this one! This is going to be one of my go-to chicken dishes, it's made up of things I usually have in my fridge or pantry all the time. I'm not good at taking photos as I go as most food bloggers do (I'll try to get better!) So you'll just have to settle for this bad picture of my plate with my sour cream chicken, green beans, and mac and cheese :)<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1282" rel="attachment wp-att-1282"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1282" title="IMG_3765" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3765-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>You'll notice the green beans on the plate? They were actually replacements for the <a href="http://www.foodgal.com/2010/01/microwave-potato-chips-really/">Microwave Potato Chips</a> (think Zaxby's/Logans) that were major duds. They didn't crisp up at all, just got majorly soggy. I figured it was too good to be true, but there were lots of comments from people who loved them, so I thought I'd give them a shot. One recipe marked off the "to try" list! Oh well, gotta try new things, right?!<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1285" rel="attachment wp-att-1285"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1285" title="IMG_3763" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3763-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1283" rel="attachment wp-att-1283"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1283" title="IMG_3764" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3764-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>Oh, and Charlotte enjoyed her <a href="http://www.bentonbetterlunches.com/2012/01/eating-real-food.html">Apple/Grape Cars</a> for lunch the other day! She loved eating the "wheels" (sorry, no pic from me, just a screen shot)<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1284" rel="attachment wp-att-1284"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1284" title="Screen Shot 2012-02-06 at 3.41.51 PM" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-Shot-2012-02-06-at-3.41.51-PM-300x225.png" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>The Super Bowl was this Sunday, we had a little party just the 3 of us ;) I did go the easy route on 3 dishes - I got TGI Friday's frozen appetizers for Jeff's Buffalo Wings, my Potato Skins, and our Spinach and Artichoke Dip. For frozen appetizers, they were pretty good!!<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1281" rel="attachment wp-att-1281"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1281" title="IMG_3774" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3774-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>I did try my hand at one new Pinterest recipe for the big game: The <a href="http://www.bakedperfection.com/2009/07/peanut-butter-cup-brownies.html">Peanut Butter Mini Brownies</a>. Wow-o-wow were these good! I thought they were too gooey and put them back in for a couple more minutes, but I shouldn't have. They didn't "cave in" quite like they should have, but I was still able to get some peanut butter in them and of course top them with chips! Jeff and I both thought they were delicious. They are super rich though, so watch out!<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1280" rel="attachment wp-att-1280"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1280" title="IMG_3775" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3775-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>I was going to make the <a href="http://www.ourbestbites.com/2011/02/chocolate-chip-cookie-pie/">Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie</a>, but realized I bought the wrong kind of crust, so that's back on the menu for later. Instead, I had a box mix for Lemon Squares so I went ahead and made those. I also used my crock pot for a Super Bowl must have - Chili Con Queso! (Velveeta, Rotel, and 1/2lb ground beef)<br/><br/><a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1286" rel="attachment wp-att-1286"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1286" title="IMG_3776" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3776-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>Overall, we had a great Super Bowl, just the 3 of us. (and all that food!)<br/><br/> <br/><br/>My menu for the next 2 weeks has these new Pinterest recipes: Slow Cooker Pork Chops, Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole, Crockpot Chicken Tacos (may do chicken or pork), Grilled Cheesy Potatoes, Three Cheese Chicken Alfredo Bake, Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken, Taco Casserole, Heart Shaped Muffins (for MOPS), Breakfast in a muffin tin, Crescent Roll Cheesecake, and I'm gonna try the Sliced Baked Potatoes<a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?p=1183"> again</a>, with smaller potatoes. Wow! That's a lot of food to cook!! (You should see how full my fridge and pantry are!) I'm not going to link them all, you can find them all <a href="http://pinterest.com/jordanrlyons/yummy-things/">here</a>.<br/><br/> <br/><br/> Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-5397248065812171612012-01-27T08:22:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:15.990-07:00Charlotte is 3!*Warning! This post is all about Charlotte so it is very looooong!<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1235" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1235"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1235" title="9" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/9-199x300.jpg" alt="" width="199" height="300" /></a><br/><p style="text-align: center;">Can you believe it?! I can't!</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"></p><br/>3 years ago we went into the hospital to be induced?<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1269" title="OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/P1230163-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /><br/><br/>3 years ago we brought home a 5 pound 9 ounce 19 inch long tiny squirming thing??<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1270" title="OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/P1230184-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /><br/><br/>3 years ago we went from being Jeff and Jordan to Charlotte's PARENTS?! Amazing.<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1271" title="OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/P1230195-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /><br/><br/>Speaking of Amazing - our kiddo is soooo amazing! She has such a sweet spirit, is absolutely hilarious, is very well behaved, and a pretty smart cookie too.<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1264" title="IMG_3661" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3661-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /><br/><br/>Her favorite things lately are reading books, singing us songs, doing puzzles, playing with cars and trains, Candy Land, and just recently got into playing pretend with her babies. Charlotte loves to play outside in our huge drive way, go for walks/rides, go to Target and the library, and eating out at restaurants. Her favorite foods are mac and cheese, chicken nuggets, french fries, any breakfast foods, and fruit. She loves all things tech/electronic: playing games on PBS.com or Disney.com, games or books or shows on the iPad or iPhone, and watching movies like Toy Story, Bugs Life, Tangled, Winnie the Pooh, and shows like Dora, Max and Ruby, Calliou, Curious George, and on and on.<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1262" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1262"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1262" title="IMG_3614" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3614-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>She knows her colors, shapes, a lot of the alphabet, how to count, and is starting to recognize numbers and letters, and is continuing with her sign language. Crafts and art are starting to become more fun now that she can be more hands on. We've got the name, birthday, and most of the address down now. With us moving, she also is starting to understand how we all live in different cities and states. She is also starting to help around the house - cleaning up her toys, helping with her bed, getting ice in our cups for dinner, and carrying things to the table. This is of course just a small list of all the amazing things that our amazing 3 year old can do.<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1261" title="IMG_3593" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3593-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /><br/><br/>We have not had our 3 year check up yet, that'll happen next week. From what I can tell, she is perfectly healthy, still tall and has filled out a little more so isn't as much of a stick :) She also had her first dentist appointment a couple days ago. Charlotte did fantastic! They have a huge indoor play place inside so that definitely helped her feel more comfortable!<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1263" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1263"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1263" title="IMG_3621" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3621-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>It was an option to have them clean her teeth and she did let them do it and had no issues. We got a clean bill of health - no cavities or any issues there. The dentist did alert us to potential future issues. Have you ever noticed the gap in her front teeth? Apparently that's cause from gum/tissue coming down too far and pushing those teeth apart. She may have to have a frenectomy to remove that tissue and braces to close the gap, unless her permanent teeth come in and push that tissue out of the way. Fun huh? She also inherited her momma's small upper jaw. This means her upper teeth on her right side sit on the inside of her bottom teeth when she closes her mouth, instead of coming down on the outside. I had the same issue and had to have an expander and then braces in high school. It's crazy that C is just 3 years old and we are already looking down the road at orthodontics and possible oral surgery. Double Ick. That may be too much information for you, but there you go anyway!<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1240" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1240"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1240" title="IMG_3475" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3475-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>On to Charlotte's party! C's birthday was on Monday (the 23rd) so we decided to have her 'party' the Saturday before. We weren't planning on doing anything big - we don't really have a lot of friends down here yet, and it would have been tough to do something in Spring Hill with our TN friends. We decided to keep it simple with just a family get together. We had more family able to come down than we thought! Saturday Jeff's parents, brother, and his family drove down from Bowling Green KY and met us at the Mellow Mushroom here in Hutnsville for lunch! We had a great time eating lunch together, then headed back to our place to hang out. Charlotte had so much fun with her cousin Reese who is just a couple months younger. They ran and played and scram all day :) The balloon curtain that I made from Pinterest was a big hit too!<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1241" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border: 0px initial initial;" title="IMG_3479" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3479-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /><a rel="attachment wp-att-1248" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1248"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1248" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1248"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1248" title="IMG_3513" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3513-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1247" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1247"></a><br/><p style="text-align: center;">It's hard to get a good picture of 2 active little girls!</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1247" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1247"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1247" title="IMG_3509" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3509-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1242" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1242"></a><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1242" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1242"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1242" title="IMG_3486" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3486-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>Visiting with Grandad and cousin Avery</p><br/><p style="text-align: left;"><br/>I didn't have anything major planned, but we did do an art project - making butterflies out of their feet! They had fun picking their colors and getting their feet painted.</p><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1249" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1249"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1249" title="IMG_3514" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_35141-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>My parents joined the party that afternoon about 3:30 - just in time too, the girls were ready for cupcakes! I have to admit I'm pretty proud of Charlotte's cupcakes! They were baked in sugar cones and I frosted the top with cupcake frosting in a spray can - it was so much easier! Top it with sprinkles and they looked just like ice cream cones. Love it!<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1244" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1244"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1244" title="IMG_3489" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3489-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1250" title="IMG_3517" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3517-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" /><a rel="attachment wp-att-1245" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1245"></a><br/><br/>Then it was time for presents! Charlotte got 3 pairs of shoes - she is a shoe-aholic - lots of cute clothes, a Woody doll (to match her Jessie from Christmas), PJs, an art easel, and a few more things. After a little more play time, it was time for the BG folks to head back north. We were sad to see them go after just an afternoon of playing together, but Jeff and I are so grateful to them for making the big trip all in one day so they could celebrate C's 3rd Birthday with us. Thank you all!! <a rel="attachment wp-att-1267" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1267"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1267" title="IMG_3707" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3707-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1268" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1268"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1268" title="IMG_3715" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3715-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>My parents spent the night and we had a great breakfast the next morning, and then took a drive! We were excited to head up to Monte Sano here in Hutnsville and enjoy the view of Huntsville and maybe taking a walk on the trail. Unfortuantly, it was very very cloudy and rainy. We did enjoy our drive though - it was crazy thinking that we were actually driving through the clouds!<br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1251" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1251"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1251" title="IMG_3525" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3525-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>This was our "view" but all we saw were clouds! It wasn't raining but we got wet just from being in the clouds.</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1252" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1252"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1252" title="IMG_3527" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3527-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a>We had to get out and walk around at least at little bit for this active girl!</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1253" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1253"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1253" title="IMG_3529" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3529-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a></p><br/>That afternoon, Jeff and I gave her our present! A big girl room! We converted her crib to the full size, so she got a new mattress, bedding, art, lamp, etc. She looks so tiny in that big bed but she loves her new room.<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1255" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1255"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1255" title="IMG_3548" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3548-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1272" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1272"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1272" title="IMG_3572" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3572-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1265" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1265"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1265" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1265"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1265" title="IMG_3665" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3665-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1260" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1260"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1260" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1260"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1260" title="IMG_3579" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3579-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1257" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1257"></a><br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1259" title="IMG_3578" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3578-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /><a rel="attachment wp-att-1257" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1257"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1257" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1257"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1257" title="IMG_3574" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3574-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1258" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1258"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1258" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1258"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1258" title="IMG_3575" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3575-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/>All in all, Charlotte had a great birthday party weekend! On her actual birthday C and I had MOPS that morning, then Jeff came home from work early. After her nap we headed out for a Jeep ride with the top down on the beautiful 60 degree January day! A trip to Target to spend her birthday money, diner at Zaxby's and a movie night with Cars 2 wrapped up her day.<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1256" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1256"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1256" title="IMG_3564" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3564-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>What a beautiful kiddo. Jeff and I are so blessed to be her parents.<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1236" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1236"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1236" title="87" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/87-199x300.jpg" alt="" width="199" height="300" /></a>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-34788489232704616782012-01-27T04:19:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:15.976-07:00Maybe today......will start my new routine! I found some motivation today to actually get my lazy butt up and do something called... I think I remember, it was called exercise?! maybe? ;)<br/><br/>But seriously. I have had the thoughts lately that it has to be all or nothing - a diet, exercise, going to bed on time, etc. If I don't do it all, then there is no point doing just 1 of those things. But after a talk with Jeff last night, I decided to change my thinking. We talked about the theory that it takes 21 days to form a new habit. So maybe my goal will be to do something physical/exercise for 21 days. Then I'll be in the habit of doing it, and can add something else, like dieting. I won't be changing my whole world all the sudden. I'll have one habit and then can work on adding another and so on and so on. I can already find a lot of holes in this theory, but I'm gonna focus on the positive here and not list them all out ;)<br/><br/>So, maybe you can help me stay motivated?! I have found a lot of motivation on Pinterest too. From quotes, to exercise plans, before and after pictures of other women, food ideas, and so on. Hopefully that will help more and seeing all the yummy sweets will not dissuade me!<br/><br/>This is my plan for now: Netflix. They have a ton of exercise videos on instant watch that I am going to cycle through. (for all you fitness gurus out there, I'm sure this isn't the best thing to do, but I'm not dragging myself to a gym right now) Today I did a pilates video that took 30 minutes. The great thing was that it didn't feel like 30 minutes (in a good way!) and it was easy enough for my out-of-shape-bootie but still had challenging parts and has 3 levels you can choose from for the future. There are a lot of videos in the 10 Minute Solution Series that I want to try too -yoga, their pilates, kick boxing, dance, etc. I'm hoping I will be entertained by their variety.<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1227" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1227"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1227" title="Screen Shot 2012-01-27 at 10.45.42 AM" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Screen-Shot-2012-01-27-at-10.45.42-AM.png" alt="" width="186" height="250" /></a><br/><br/>I was also glad Charlotte LET me do this for 30 minutes! She has been so "mommy-centered" since the move, it's hard to get her to play on her own. During the work out she got toys out by herself and I only had to pause to braid Tangled's hair once! She also did some of the exercising with me! She has her own exercises that she does that are very cute, but I'm hoping that the more she sees me do, she'll join in with me - especially when it comes time for the dance! I think this will be a great thing to add in to our daily routine.<br/><br/>After our exercising, I decided we deserved a little spa treatment! I took a nice shower with a home made sugar scrub that we made at MOPS on Monday. After that, Charlotte and I pampered ourselves with manis and pedis! Go pink!<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1222" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1222"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1222" title="IMG_3698" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3698-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1223" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1223"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1223" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1223"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1223" title="IMG_3702" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3702-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1224" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1224"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1224" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1224"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1224" title="IMG_3705" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3705-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>Now it's time to relax! The stretching from the Pilates has lingered and feels good too :) We'll see if I'm sore at all tomorrow. I'm catching up on my blogging and Charlotte is spending some time with Woody, Jessie, and the gang. Don't you love her box bed/house/rocket ship/whatever she wants it to be?!<a rel="attachment wp-att-1225" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1225"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1225" title="IMG_3708" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3708-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1226" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border: 0px initial initial;" title="IMG_3714" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3714-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /><br/><div style="text-align: center;">She is showing Jessie the movie. Isn't that the cutest :)</div>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-75579431923023370722012-01-26T12:13:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:15.970-07:00Christmas 2011So we're a month past Christmas but I figured better late than never! It was a different Christmas this year, with our being in Alabama we traveled the entire holiday and didn't get to have Christmas morning at our house :( I know other people have done this for years, and that this is just Charlotte's 3rd Christmas so it isn't a long standing tradition, but we missed it this year! But I think we made the best of it and had a wonderful Christmas!<br/><br/>The Lyons Family Christmas: We traveled up to Bowling Green Kentucky Friday morning to spend some time with Jeff's side of the family. We hung out on Friday and all the family came to Jim and Jolene's house Saturday for Christmas Eve fun. We ate a great lunch, hung out with family, and watched all the cousins play together! That's the best part of Christmas to me - seeing Charlotte enjoy her time with family, especially those that we don't see very often. That evening we opened presents - it was fun chaos ;) We had to pack up that night and head back down the Spring Hill, TN, but we had a fantastic Christmas Eve in Bowling Green! Here are a couple photos from our trip, if you'd like to see more head <a href="http://gallery.me.com/antivenomstudios#100015">here</a> to Jeff's photo gallery.<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1199" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1199"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1199" title="IMG_0323" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/8-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1200" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1200"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1200" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1200"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1200" title="IMG_0668" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/125-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="199" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1201" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1201"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1201" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1201"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1201" title="IMG_0754" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/145-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1202" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1202"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1202" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1202"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1202" title="IMG_0775" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/155-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1203" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1203"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1203" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1203"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1203" title="IMG_0796" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/163-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a><br/><br/>We spent Christmas morning at my parents house in Spring Hill. While we missed having it at our house, it was great being able to share in the Santa fun with my parents, sister, and Nana. Charlotte loved all her Santa toys! (yes, it was a lot but they were all consignment sale buys or free from Kohls! Charlotte may be a bit spoiled but my wallet was happy.)<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1208" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1208"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1208" title="-104" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/1041-246x300.jpg" alt="" width="246" height="300" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1206" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1206"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1206" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1206"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1206" title="IMG_0799" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/82-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1204" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1204"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1204" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1204"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1204" title="IMG_0821" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/21-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1205" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1205"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1205" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1205"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1205" title="IMG_0909" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/48-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a>After Santa time, we had a great brunch and set about opening presents!! We take turns opening presents so it takes a bit to get through them all - Charlotte actually lost interest in opening her gifts! Regardless, we had a great time enjoying each others company and then playing with all our new toys.<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1209" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1209"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1209" title="IMG_1157" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/25-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1214" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1214"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1214" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1214"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1214" title="IMG_1099" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/81-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1213" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1213"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1213" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1213"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1213" title="IMG_1034" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/79-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1212" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1212"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1212" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1212"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1212" title="IMG_1056" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/68-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1211" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1211"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1211" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1211"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1211" title="IMG_1111" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/59-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1210" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1210"></a><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1210" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1210"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1210" title="IMG_1232" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/54-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a>All in all, it was a great Christmas spent with lots of family. :)<br/><br/>To see more photos you can also visit my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151035565530595.775104.901595594&type=3&l=b4a9ed8c3a ">Facebook Album</a>.Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-88609028931223754092012-01-26T11:33:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:15.956-07:00My name is Jordan and I'm a Pinner...Yes, you heard it right. I'm now addicted to <a href="http://pinterest.com/jordanrlyons/">Pinterest</a>! I kept avoiding it, no solid reason, just lots of little ones like not having the time for something else, not wanting to jump on the 'band wagon,' I'm not crafty so there wouldn't be anything for me on there, and on and on. I finally caved when I got a invite via Facebook. Just a couple weeks later and I'm totally and completely hooked! If you don't know what Pinterst is, a brief run down is <a href="http://pinterest.com/about/">here</a> (they explain it better than I ever could!)<br/><br/>I'm not typically a person that can look at a cookbook or read a recipe and decide if I would like that dish or what it would taste like. But with Pinterest, most of the time you get photos, other peoples opinions, descriptions, etc. And of course the more you see it pinned, I'm guessing the better it will be! ha So I decided to give a few new recipes a try. Plus, Jeff really wants to add some different stuff to our menu rotation so this has been perfect! So far, I have made crock pot pulled pork, sliced baked potatoes, toasted ravioli, cupcakes in a cone, and white chicken enchiladas. They have all been so good! I would add them all into my menu rotation. Success!! I have quite a few more desserts and things to fix over the next couple weeks. So excited! (and I'm rarely excited about new food like this!) If you want to see what I've got cooking, check out my <a href="http://pinterest.com/jordanrlyons/yummy-things/">"Yummy Things" board</a>. Here are some photos of things I've made (I'm not a food blogger so I was not diligent on taking photos of the process, final product, etc)<br/><p style="text-align: center;"></p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1192" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1192"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1192" title="enchiladas" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3670-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a>White Chicken Enchiladas. They were soupier than I think they were supposed to be, but still tasty!</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1190" title="IMG_3519" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3519-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /><a rel="attachment wp-att-1191" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1191"></a></p><br/><p style="text-align: center;">Pulled Pork in the crock pot - cooked with Diet Pepsi!</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1191" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1191"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1191" title="bbq" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3532-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>Pulled Pork Sandwich and our sliced potatoes - very good.</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1187" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1187"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1187" title="cupcakes" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3472-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>Charlotte's Birthday Cupcakes baked in a cone! Just like I remembered as a kid :)</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;">And no photo of the ravioli. We did add some pizza sauce to dip them in and that made them even better.</p><br/><p style="text-align: left;">I also get to dream about my future house! Knowing that the home we are in is not a permanent one, and that we'll be moving again within the year, it seems to make this more exciting. I know there is no way I am going to do most of the stuff I am pinning, but it may inspire me for some decorating of my own in the next place! We would also love to build a home sometime years and years down the road, so I can already start some research, right!? ;) Check out my <a href="http://pinterest.com/jordanrlyons/home-ideas/">"Home Ideas" Board.</a> There are also tons of tips and tricks that I can start doing now or save for my future home(s) on my <a href="http://pinterest.com/jordanrlyons/smart-thinking/">"Smart Thinking" Board</a>! Anything from a easy way to hang frames, how to best store produce, or great organization tips. I always find great ideas in magazines, but you never get to remember them. Now I can pin them and know I can come back to them later. Genius :) I haven't done anything from these boards yet, but I'm planning on it! This is my latest project that mom and I did, while I didn't get it from Pinterest, it is artsy so I thought I'd throw it in here:</p><br/><p style="text-align: left;"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1188" title="photo wall" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3477-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></p><br/><p style="text-align: center;">All the shadows make it look crooked... or maybe it is crooked :(</p><br/>I have a board, <a href="http://pinterest.com/jordanrlyons/pins-for-charlotte/">"Pins for Charlotte"</a> that has, guess what? Stuff for Charlotte! Activities, room ideas, party ideas, etc. I have done 3 of these so far - which is huge for this non-crafter! and have 3-4 on my to-do list for the next week or two. Again, Pinterest is great for organizing all those great ideas and knowing where to go on a rainy day to find something to keep us entertained! I think it'll help me be a better mom, ha! Here are some of the great things we've done so far: A balloon curtain and butterfly art during her birthday party, and today crayon art!<br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1186" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1186"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1186" title="balloon" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3470-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a>The girls had so much fun running through the balloon curtain during the party! It lasted much longer than I thought it would too :)</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1189" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1189"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1189" title="butterfly" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3514-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a>Our craft during the party was a butterfly made out of their footprints! I'm realizing now that I should have done the feet the other way to make it look more like butterfly wings... oops! :)</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1193" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1193"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1193" title="melt" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3685-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>We glued crayons to a canvas and melted them with a blow dryer!</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1194" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1194"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1194" title="art" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_3689-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>Finished product! Definitely like the reds more - the blues turned too blackish. Still, fun art for the playroom!</p><br/>So there you go. My latest obsession! If you want a Pinterest invite, just let me know!Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-11794419623151583612011-11-15T11:01:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:15.950-07:00Autumn Crafts<a rel="attachment wp-att-1170" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1170"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1170" title="IMG_2898" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2898-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /></a>This post is going to make me look a lot more crafty then I actually am :) The crafts are either made at the library's story time or ideas I pulled off some websites, but I thought it would be fun to share the crafts that Charlotte and I have done. On a side note, it's funny how its story time for toddlers but the mommas end up doing most of the work!<br/><br/>Our first craft at our new story time was about falling leaves, so it was a pretty simple project of glueing leaf cut outs on a piece of paper. But, it was C's first time to use the glue stick on her own, so she had fun. And it's a pretty on the fridge!<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1174" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1174"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1174" title="IMG_2902" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2902-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /></a><br/><br/>For Halloween we made a spider at the library. It was really easy, just a small plate turned upside down and colored black (or in C's case any color) and then we accordion-ed 8 black strips of paper to be the legs. Top it off with some googly eyes and you have a spooky spider!<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1175" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1175"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1175" title="IMG_2903" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2903-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /></a><br/><br/>We made a pumpkin during the library's trick or treat event. It looked like a pretty simple idea - glueing the strips together at the bottom, then pulling them all up to the top and glueing them together at the top. Slap on some leaves and you've got a pumpkin! Somehow this mom screwed it up and our pumpkin turned out totally lopsided! Oh well... it's cute, right??<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1176" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1176"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1176" title="IMG_2904" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2904-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /></a><br/><br/>This past weekend Jeff's parents came down to Huntsville to see the new house and visit C of course! Charlotte loved having them here, and we talked about the next time we were gonna see them - at Thanksgiving. Well, for a 2 year old, we deal in the matter of "tomorrow" not 2 weeks from now. So we made a paper chain to count down the days until Thanksgiving! I've been trying to explain that we only tear off one ring a day just like we only take 1 vitamin a day (weird analogy, but she understands it!) Then we count the rings and talk about how it's that many days until we get to go to Granna and Grandad's house.<br/><br/>Anyway, I got out my scrapbooking scissors that are somewhat child proof and cut out cool patterns. So Charlotte got to do some cutting for the first time and loved it. Of course she burned out pretty quick and I finished the cutting. Charlotte got to help with the stapler, but we ran out of staples, so we resorted to glue! It was a fun little project to do.<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1173" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1173"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1173" title="IMG_2901" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2901-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /></a><br/><br/>Today we had a turkey craft day! We traced Charlotte's hands and feet to make a special turkey for daddy to decorate his office at work. She usually loves having her hands and feet traced so this was the perfect craft for us! The brown turkey is actually made of her two feet traced (without defined toes) and laid on top of each other, spreading them out just a bit at the bottom. Jeff thinks it looks more like a potato, but oh well! Charlotte loved being able to do all the glueing and putting the eyes on. She was super excited to show daddy when he got home.<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1172" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1172"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1172" title="IMG_2900" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2900-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /></a><br/><br/>We also had to have a turkey to put on the fridge, so we made a Thankful Turkey. On each of the turkey's feathers we wrote a name of someone we were thankful for - Daddy, Mommy, Granna, Grandad, Nan, and G. (sorry to everyone else, we had limited leaves!) I think he is a pretty cute turkey! This is something I hope we can do every year to remember what we are thankful for.<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1171" title="IMG_2899" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2899-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /><br/><br/>That wraps up our Autumn crafts! If you have any cute winter or Christmas ideas, send them my way! I want to be more proactive on doing arts and crafts with Charlotte a couple times a week, especially things she can do more on her own and less that mom has to do! Happy Fall everyone :)Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-28947797749988470472011-11-08T09:02:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:15.944-07:00What a Beautiful Morning!If you read our <a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?p=1134">potty training post</a> you know we have been cooped up inside most of the last week. So we took to the outdoors today! Charlotte has been begging to go outside and I finally feel like she is up to the challenge! It was an absolutely gorgeous fall day - sun, clouds, nice cool breeze.<br/><br/>We started out by going for a walk, we usually only make it a house or two away and today was no exception. We found this little field and she had so much fun just running and jumping around. I love these pictures of her - just 2 year old fun :) (Ok, I'm taking the easy way out of things and putting all the pictures in a gallery instead of posting them one by one under their applicable paragraph. Forgive me dear reader. Click on the photos to make them larger)<br/><br/>Next up - flying a kite! We bought this Yo-Gabba-Gabba kite like last year sometime and have yet to use it! Now we have a yard big enough and today was a easy windy day so Charlotte and I decided to give it a try! We had soooo much fun! It took a bit for me to remember how to fly a kite :) Then I had to fly the kite, figure out how Charlotte can help, and take photos for the memories of course!! I took some video too, I'll try to post it over on FB, I dunno if it will work.<br/><br/>After kite flying we spent a bit long riding scooters and such, Charlotte had a really good go at peddling her trike by herself. So glad we got outdoors today and got some fresh air!!! Hope we can do it again tomorrow too.<br/><br/>[gallery order="DESC"]Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-42973095587734824422011-11-08T08:37:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:15.934-07:00Potty Training!We have delved into the wonderful world of potty training!! I was a little apprehensive because in our discussions before about potty training, Charlotte said she only wanted to go in her diaper, she didn't want to go on the potty.<br/><br/>Tuesday - we went to Target and she picked out her big girl underwear (Minnie Mouse), pull ups for nap time and bedtime, got step stools, prizes for poopies, and smarties for pees. That night while she was sleeping I got the bathroom all ready! Prizes, toys, sticker chart, books, seat, stool, etc. I was pretty excited :)<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1136" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1136"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1136" title="IMG_2832" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2832-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /></a><br/><br/>Our rewards: We have a great sticker chart too, she gets to pick out a heart or butterfly or star to put on her chart if she pees or poops. Then for pees she gets 2 smarties, and poops she gets to pick a toy out of the bowl (I picked up a few toys at the dollar bins at Target) I'm writing this on Tuesday and we have pretty much forgotten about smarties and stickers, just hanging on to the toys for the poops!<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1137" title="IMG_2833" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2833-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /><br/><br/>Wednesday: Charlotte was actually excited about picking out her pair of underwear when she got up! We set the timer on my phone for 15 minutes and C got to pick out her ringtone noise (the Xylophone) Thus began our day! I read in a lot of books and such that you had to give them a lot of juice so their bladders are full and they get used to the feeling of needing to pee. Its hard to know if it actually worked or if we would have made the progress we made without it - I do know though, that it gave us a lot of huge accidents! Carpet, hardwood floors, tile, her pottery barn chair... I think we had 7-8 accidents all together. I finally made her sit on this little mat to watch her shows. :) It did look like my 15 minute timer worked though! She got all excited when it went off and we ran to the potty. Finally with all this, we finally peed in the potty 3 times! I was frustrated with the accidents - I felt like I was cleaning up pee all day! But the fact that we got 3 times in the potty, it felt pretty successful.<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1138" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1138"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1138" title="IMG_2836" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2836-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /></a><br/><br/>Thursday: We continued with the timer method! She wouldn't go at all in the morning, even through like 3 timer rounds, and then playing kitchen we had a major accident - I guess I learned she can hold it when she wants too! haha. However, once we had this accident, the rest of the day went great! She had no more accidents but went on the potty many times. We are using pull ups for naps and bedtimes, it seems like she is saving her poops for the pull ups cause we had that happen today!<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1139" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1139"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1139" title="IMG_2840" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2840-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /></a><br/><br/>Friday: She has really started understanding the feeling of peeing and gets so excited when she realizes she has to pee, runs to the toilet and hears it hit the water - so fun! I've had a couple times where I've just about cried because she was so happy and I was so happy. We had out first (and so far only) poopie on the potty. I think it was a fluke, she was trying to toot and ended up pooping - she was so very proud of herself and she got to pick out a toy! It was a fitting choice - noise putty that makes tooting sounds, and she loves just throwing it around and squishing it. She really wants the other toys in the bowl but she knows what she has to do to get them :)<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1141" title="IMG_2843" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2843-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /><br/><br/>Saturday: We stopped using the timer, Jeff and I were both home all day and were able to double team her so we could see when she needed to go and she got really good at telling us too. It was so cute, she even told Jeff "I don't want to pee on your floor!!!" and took off running out of his office to get on the potty. She did tinkle a bit on her way but the fact that she was able to hold it in as much as she could and didn't let go til she was on the potty - 2 thumbs up kiddo! She did start putting up some resistance when we would ask her to go and she said she didn't need to - like we make her go when she wakes up or lays down, its time to eat, etc. I was very proud of another day with no accidents.<br/><br/>Sunday: I was a little nervous because as of yet we hadn't been out of the house with her in 4 days, and we were gonna head to Spring Hill! Jeff was invited to go the the Titans Bengals game, Charlotte and I can't turn down a trip to see friends and family and the potty training was going really well so I thought we'd give it a try. We did put a pull up on for the trip, but even when we arrived at my parents house she was dry and peed on the potty immediately. Yay!!! I don't know if it was intentional or not, but I was happy about it. :) I had packed my bleach cleaner and carpet cleaner because I was so afraid of Charlotte having an accident at my parents or Nana's house, but she was fine!! No accidents either place we went to! What a big relief for this momma :)<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1142" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1142"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1142" title="IMG_2850" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2850-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /></a><br/><br/>Monday: Jeff, Charlotte, and I were all under the weather so Jeff stayed home from work. We watched way too much TV (as we have been since this potty training thing began. Most of our accidents happened while playing and getting side tracked, so Netflix has been our friend) but we just enjoyed relaxing and hanging out together. Again, a day with no accidents! She is starting to refuse to wear pull ups at naps and bedtime, but we haven't gotten up dry yet so I don't think we are quite ready to give them up! (I love her little wedgie in this picture! lol)<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1140" title="IMG_2842" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2842-224x300.jpg" alt="" width="224" height="300" /><br/><br/>Tuesday: We played outside! I have been afraid of playing outside cause we'd get so distracted playing and have an accident. Today we actually were outside for an hour taking a walk, flying a kite, and riding scooters and such and had no issues at all.<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1143" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1143"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1143" title="IMG_2860" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMG_2860-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="199" /></a><br/><br/>So what's next? Pooping in the potty instead of waiting for the pull ups, staying dry overnight, and being able to run errands and go out to eat, etc All in all, after a week of training, I feel pretty darn good about Charlotte and her progress :)Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-76619730874930864452011-11-08T07:12:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:15.928-07:00Halloween WeekendWe had a fantastic Halloween weekend! We journeyed back up to Spring Hill Friday night, visited with friends to catch some of the World Series, and spent the night at my parents house. Charlotte looooves sleeping at Nan and G's house up on the Ridge! Saturday we just got to enjoy the day and prepare for the bonfire!<br/><br/>During Charlotte's nap Jeff and I got to have a little afternoon date - lunch and a movie, we saw "In Time" - it was great! When we got back it was bonfire time! I love having bonfire's at mom and dad's house. I remember when our church was small enough that we all gathered at the Ridge to fellowship around the fire at least once a year! Charlotte really got into the bonfire this year and was very excited about G starting the fire. We had hot dogs, smores, and just enjoyed being outdoors with friends and family!<br/><br/>The next morning we got to head back to The Bridge for church - it was like we'd never left! That afternoon Jeff and I got another mini-date - we went to Buffalo Wild Wings to watch Titans game! It was nice just being together :) When the game was over and Charlotte was done with her nap it was costume time! She was the cutest ballerina ever!!!!<br/><br/>We headed to the Bridge for our church's annual "Trunk or Treat" and Charlotte had a blast jumping in the moon bounce, trick or treating around the trunks, petting the pony, and seeing friends.<br/><br/>Our little family was exhausted that night and headed back to Huntsville.<br/><br/>Monday was officially Halloween, and that morning Charlotte and I headed to our public library for their trick or treating! They had story time, crafts, and of course trick or treating around the different areas in the library. It was a very nice and safe thing for them to do for our little ones.<br/><br/>Sadly, we got no trick or treaters at our door that night :( I was all ready too!! I guess we'll just have to eat the candy.... oh well.... hehe<br/><br/>Enjoy the gallery below of all the photos from our Halloween Weekend!<br/><br/>[gallery order="DESC"]Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-39471775559357621872011-11-08T05:46:00.000-08:002013-09-28T12:42:15.920-07:00TanglefootHello everyone! It has been just over a month now that we have called Huntsville Alabama home. Well, maybe not "home" yet, but it is our new residence! The house starting to feel homey though, we are getting used to where everything is and settling in well I think. My mom and/or mom and dad have already been down like 5 times, Jeff's parents are coming down this weekend, and we have a couple friends that are starting to plan visits. The next thing on our priority list is to find a church and start making some friends! I have kept myself pretty busy with moving and Charlotte and all our Spring Hill trips already, so I haven't found time to really be homesick yet! With all the holidays coming up, it may be awhile before I feel disconnected from life-as-we-knew-it, and I'm ok with that! Anyway, enough of my rambling, I just wanted to share some pictures of the house. Most of you probably have seen them on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150892660765595.754360.901595594&type=1&l=00944aee65 "> Facebook</a>, but I wanted to make an official blog post too :)<br/><br/>[gallery order="DESC"]<br/><br/>If you ever find yourself traveling down I-65 and want to swing by for a visit, just give me a heads up! We'd love to see you all :)<br/><br/>P.S. Our street is Tanglefoot, if you're wondering why the blog title is what it is :)Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-79486456956886992292011-09-29T05:01:00.000-07:002013-09-28T12:42:15.912-07:00Emotional Day of "lasts"Today has been the most emotional one (thus far!) for me. It is Thursday. We move on Saturday. Where did all the time go?<br/><br/>I had to contact the Williamson County Animal Shelter just now. We haven't been able to find any other options for <a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?p=1073">Brady</a>. He has driven me crazy lately, but still the thought of him not being around and even worse, being in a shelter with tons of other dogs waiting to be adopted... That awful ASPCA or whatever commercial with Sarah McLauclan is playing over and over in my head. The lady I spoke with was very positive that being younger, and a small dog, with a specific bread, will find a new home easily. Plus, they will make sure he gets all his needed shots and whatnot updated. I think this could be a good thing.... Its just hard to actually do. I don't want to take him and drop him off tomorrow. Not one bit.<br/><br/>Charlotte and I went to our last story time at the library today. Oh, I'm sure we'll find another one at the Huntsville library or Barnes and Noble, but still, this one is familiar and C loves going to Her library.<br/><br/>I have a friend coming over today to pack the last 2 rooms - the kitchen and playroom. Once those are done, we'll literally have most everything packed. I'm not ready for it to be done. That means we have to move to unpack these things in a whole new house. I think the excitement of a new house, a new challenge, etc had taken over the last few weeks but it's a little more daunting now.<br/><br/>Charlotte spend her last night in this house tonight. Ever. That make me extremely sad. She has slept in her room since the night we brought her home. 2 years and 9 months of that being HER room and now it won't be. C is very excited about her new house and her new room, etc. She doesn't grasp the concept of what that means and what will change, I'm afraid for the time when it does sink in to her that we won't live in the house she remembers anymore. We won't go to the Home Depot where her Nan works, won't go to the Bridge anymore, won't go to her favorite Target store, won't have her Daddy home every day.... won't, won't, won't.<br/><br/>We had our weekly play date with Allison, Hazen, and Laney Combs yesterday. Had a great time at their house, and then at the park for lunch and time on the playground. It wasn't until we were leaving that I realized that's the last time we'll see them as Tennesseans. We have already talked about plans for them to visit us in Hville or us to make SH trips, but still... it won't be the same as living less than 5 minutes from each other and just getting together to play during the mornings. Because I didn't realize that this was the last time I'll see Allison for a while (she is leaving to ATL tomorrow and won't be back til after we move) I didn't get to actually saw bye like I wanted. Maybe that's a good thing...<br/><br/>Our last Sunday at the Bridge was Sunday. Eesh. The Bridge is what brought my family and Jeff down to Tennessee/Spring Hill in 2003. (Jeff and I weren't part of the Bridge for a few years as we leaved in North and East Nashville, we came back in 2008) Josh recognized all the website, video, and tech work that Jeff has given to the Bridge over the years... it seemed so final. There were so many people I wanted to say goodbye too, but then it just felt like a normal Sunday and I know we'll be back to visit so in some ways it didn't seem necessary. And then we were done.<br/><br/>The night before, we had our last <a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?p=1065">"hoo-rah"</a> with a bunch of people from church to hang out and watch the UFC PPV. We love hosting these events. I had a moment during the night where I just stood and looked at the full room as we pulled chairs in from all the different rooms so everyone had a seat and I wondered... when will this happen again? How long will it take us to find a new group of friends, a new church, a new UFC bunch ;0), to fill up our living room? As my mom pointed out, I love playing hostess, and the thought that I may not do that again for a while was a little depressing.<br/><br/>My dearest and oldest (old like we've been friends forever, not that she is old!) friend Sarah also came down Saturday afternoon and stayed the night and went to church Sunday. Sarah lives in Bowling Green KY, which is only an hour and a half or so away. It's totally close enough that every 1-2 months she'll come down for a weekend, especially if it is a birthday or special get together. And she is friends with Josh and Jana Howerton and loves the Bridge, so that's an added bonus for Spring Hill visits! Now with us being in Huntsville, it is going to double the drive from BG and not have the Bridge and the Howertons to share a visit with. We've already talked about how she can still come to Huntsville, but I know it won't happen near as frequent. I'll miss our times together!<br/><br/>Jeff's parents came down Sunday afternoon for lunch and to watch the Titans game. They live in BG as well, but sadly we don't see them near as often as we should! I'm hoping that we'll be able to get a full or queen size bed for a guest bed instead of just a twin, and then they can actually come down and stay a weekend! We will be much more intentional about visits with them.<br/><br/>We had a last dinner with my parents too. They took us to Pancho's mexican restaurant to celebrate Jeff's birthday. I'm so used to my parent's being 10 minutes away. We can just decide, hey, lets do dinner. We see them at church, they stop by the house just to say hi, we go out to the Ridge to use their hot tub. It's easy and comfortable. Plus, we have built in free and reliable babysitters that charlotte loves! I know I'll still talk to them all the time, and we'll make many visits. But it won't be the same. It won't be the same for my Nana either. We would make pretty regular trips on Wednesday to play at her house and eat dinner (she lives in Nashville, about 30 minutes away from us) We are all going to miss our time together. She has already talked to my parents about making plans for her first trip to Huntsville, so that makes me happy :) I love my sweet family. Hannah has already moved to Cincinnati so I know I won't see her til Thanksgiving probably, but still, it feels different now.<br/><br/>Wow... this post went long. I was just gonna write about Brady and our last story time... oops! I guess is this probably more of a journal entry than a blog post that people will actually want to read! So don't worry if you aren't reading this, or if you are and you skipped right over a bunch of stuff!<br/><br/>Oh and no, I didn't read over it and do any type of proof reading so no judgement!!Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-30513863450792767292011-09-23T15:28:00.000-07:002013-09-28T12:42:15.904-07:00Brady Boy needs a new home :(<div><br/><br/>I hate writing this blog post.<br/><br/>We got Brady 5 years ago and he has been a great family member ever since! He has been with us through 3 moves but won't be able to make this next one to<a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?p=1027"> Huntsville</a> with us. ;(<br/><br/>We would love to find a friend or friend of a friend to be able to give him a new home. We are not asking any money or "adoption fee" for him. We just want to find someone who will love him!! If you would love a little pup to add to your family, please read below and see if he would be a good fit for you. We are leaving Oct 1 and hope to have him in a new home by then.<br/><br/>Some info on Brady:<br/><br/>He is a Puggle - one of those designer breeds of Pug and Beagle. He is a good sized dog - 25-30 pounds. Not too small and not too big :)<br/><br/>He was born May 2006.<br/><br/>He gets along great with kids and other animals.<br/><br/>He can be an outside dog, but prefers to stay inside. He currently uses a lead system in our backyard as it isn't fenced, while it isn't his favorite, it would be an option for your home too if needed.<br/><br/>He loves being loved - will take all the petting and belly scratching you can take!!<br/><br/>He always wants to lay on something soft - like a pillow or blanket.<br/><br/>He is kennel trained for when you leave the house or overnight - he really loves his kennel and prefers to sleep in there and will go hang out in his kennel on his own.<br/><br/>He is a very good and sweet and kind dog.<br/><br/>He loves his chew toys, but will only play a round or two of fetch. He loves chasing a laser or light, or just being chased!<br/><br/>He is not "fixed" but we have never had any issues with marking or over aggressiveness, or "acting out" because of it.<br/><br/>He isn't really a guard dog, as he isn't aggressive, but he will make a lot of noise when someone is at the door, so that can be nice!<br/><br/>He will need all of his vaccinations etc. updated. This is an area where we are not responsible pet-parents :(<br/><br/>If you have any questions about Brady or want to meet him or take him home, please let me know! I really don't want to go the craigslist route.<br/><br/>Here are some pictures of Brady over the years<img title="gallery order="DESC" columns="4"" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-includes/js/tinymce/plugins/wpgallery/img/t.gif" alt="" /><br/><br/>[gallery order="DESC" columns="4"]<br/><br/></div>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-49040867632692786972011-09-21T06:33:00.000-07:002013-09-28T12:42:15.897-07:00Our Last "Hoo-rah!" Saturday @7Hello friends!<br/><br/>In case you missed the <a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?p=1027">news</a>, we are moving to Huntsville October 1st - that's just over a week away, crazy!! There are so many people that we want to get together with one last time, but there just aren't enough days or nights until we go - especially considering Jeff is commuting down to Hville 3 days a week this week and next.<br/><br/>Sooooo... Come on over Saturday night! There is a Ultimate Fighter Championship fight that night on PPV that starts at 8 - we have had many a get together to watch these PPVs and would love to host one more.<br/><br/>I do know that many of you are probably not big fans of UFC, and 8pm may be a bit late for those of you with kiddos to put to bed like me, so come over starting 7 instead!! I'll make some desserts - even apple dumplings to tempt those of you that know and love them! We'll just hang out and visit and say our goodbyes. :( Sorry for the late notice, even if you can just drop in and grab a cookie and a hug anytime between 7 and approx 11, we'd love to see you.<br/><br/>To recap:<br/><br/>7:00-11 desserts at our house<br/><br/>8:00-11 stick around for the UFC fight<br/><br/>125 Crestwood Lane in Lexington Farms<br/><br/>PS - we will be putting out a call soon for help to load the UHaul on the 1st... ;) ;)Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-34409288309814533552011-09-11T10:58:00.000-07:002013-09-28T12:42:15.886-07:00Our Crazy Car Carousel!If you have been following along the last month+, you will have noticed a few changes in our automobiles! The last 2-3 years we have been driving a 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix and 2008 Dodge Magnum. These were really great cars, fit our family very well, and were in great condition.<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1052" title="grand prix" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/IMG_0014-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /><br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1045" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1045"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1045" title="magnum" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/IMG_3096-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /></a><br/><br/>This really should have been a blog post on it's own about a month ago but I'm too lazy, so here we go: The past 2 years, Jeff has been fully self employed and working at home, so having 2 cars was really unnecessary on most days. So we decided to sell my Grand Prix and just be a 1 car family! It's a much longer story than I'm sure you want to hear, but it ended up being more financially beneficial to us to sell both of the cars and get a new 2011 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited!<br/><br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1050" title="Screen Shot 2011-09-11 at 4.34.46 PM" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Screen-Shot-2011-09-11-at-4.34.46-PM-300x180.png" alt="" width="300" height="180" /><br/><p style="text-align: center;">Taking a ride on the open road!</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1053" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1053"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1053" title="open road" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/IMG_3208-224x300.jpg" alt="" width="224" height="300" /></a></p><br/><p style="text-align: center;">Jeff had a fun yellow Jeep before Charlotte was born but we traded it in for the Magnum, had to have a more responsible "family card" right? Well, Jeep runs in his blood so he has always wanted to get one back. With the 4 door Jeep option, it really worked out for us to get one at this season of life! Charlotte LOVES her Jeep - she says that exact thing just about every day. And she will correct you, it is not a car, it is a JEEP! Charlotte loves having the top down, and enjoys off roading more than I even do! Even better, we haven't really run into any major issues with having just 1 car. Yay - it works!</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the breeze!</p><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1046" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1046"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1046" title="feel the breeze!" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/IMG_3111-224x300.jpg" alt="" width="224" height="300" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1047" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1047"></a><br/><p style="text-align: center;">Charlotte loves wearing her "jeep hat" and sunglasses!</p><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1047" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1047"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1047" title="cool chic" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/IMG_3131-224x300.jpg" alt="" width="224" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>Then comes <a href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?p=1027">Huntsville</a>! Not only will Jeff be working outside of the home now, he will be commuting starting Wednesday for the first 3 weeks or so of the job, so we are back to needing 2 cars! I'm sad that our great experiment only lasted about a month and a half :( We decided to get a nice, reliable car that can hold some miles, and have better gas milage too. Jeff can use it for his work commute, and we can use it for our trips back to TN and KY (which will probably happen monthly!) In comes the Toyota Camry! We found a couple options, crazy enough 2 of them sold either right before or right after we looked at them, so when we saw the 3rd one that we liked, we felt like we needed to jump on it! We picked it up last night, and so far have really enjoyed it. It is an 06, has only had one owner that took great care of it so it is just about spotless. It reminds me so much of my old 93 Camry, it's almost like coming home.<br/><p style="text-align: center;">It's so shiny! When we picked it up, they put it in a rooms with a disco ball and lasers - ha! Quite fun :)</p><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1049" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1049"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1049" title="camry" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/IMG_3380-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1051" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1051"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1051" title="interior" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Screen-Shot-2011-09-11-at-5.25.37-PM-300x225.png" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>So it's a long story, but I thought you might need a little help wondering why you have seen us driving 4 cars in the past 45 days or so!Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-90103115469163334412011-09-10T09:31:00.000-07:002013-09-28T12:42:15.875-07:00We found a house!We found a house in Huntsville! We spent many hours, looked at tons of houses, and had to decide between renting, buying, or building. We finally decided that while it's more fun to buy, especially a brand new house like the ones we were looking at, it would be best to rent for a bit. We'll get to know the area better, make sure the job is gonna stick ;), and save up some more money for a better downpayment. We would also have the flexibility to then build the house that we really want in the subdivision we really want and have plenty of time to get that going.<br/><br/>All that said, we are looking forward to the house that we are going to call home for the next year! It isn't perfect, I think we'll have some creative space planning things to decide, and it's a little further drive from things than I'd prefer, but it's a really nice place. It is by far the cleanest we have seen (and boy did we see some icky ones!) it is cute as a button from the outside, its got a great yard, deck, and long driveway for Charlotte to play on, and has some great features like a fireplace, hardwood floors, tray ceilings, big bedrooms, and a lot of storage. It's a little smaller than our house now - 2100 sq ft vs our current 2600, but it's 4 bedrooms, 2 bath, and has a nice sunroom. OH, and one FANTASTIC thing I'm finding in Alabama - most homes are 1 STORY! I am so looking forward to being on one level and not having tons of stuff piled on the stairs to go up or downstairs. :)<br/><br/>Here are a couple pictures - of course it will look different with our stuff in it :)<br/><p style="text-align: center;">Isn't it cute! 109 Tanglefoot Huntsville AL 35811</p><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1038" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1038"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1038" title="cute!" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Screen-Shot-2011-09-10-at-4.07.27-PM-300x191.png" alt="" width="300" height="191" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1040" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1040"></a><br/><p style="text-align: center;">It's 1.23 acres... Jeff's gonna love mowing this one!</p><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1040" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1040"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1040" title="lots to mow!" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Screen-Shot-2011-09-10-at-4.07.39-PM-300x190.png" alt="" width="300" height="190" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1039" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1039"></a><br/><p style="text-align: center;">Kitchen is a bit smaller and not open to the living room, but it's nice and clean and laid out well.</p><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1039" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1039"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1039" title="Screen Shot 2011-09-10 at 4.08.05 PM" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Screen-Shot-2011-09-10-at-4.08.05-PM-300x215.png" alt="" width="300" height="215" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1041" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1041"></a><br/><p style="text-align: center;">Nice LR with hardwoods, tray ceilings, and fireplace. Our biggest challenge is gonna be figure out furniture placement :)</p><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1041" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1041"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1041" title="Screen Shot 2011-09-10 at 4.07.50 PM" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Screen-Shot-2011-09-10-at-4.07.50-PM-300x215.png" alt="" width="300" height="215" /></a><br/><br/>Stay turned for our next blog post: we'll take a trip on our Car Carousel!Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-15260524912069098822011-09-05T11:53:00.000-07:002013-09-28T12:42:15.860-07:00We're Moving to...<p style="text-align: center;">Huntsville Alabama!</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1028" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1028"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1028" title="Screen Shot 2011-09-05 at 6.12.48 PM" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Screen-Shot-2011-09-05-at-6.12.48-PM-300x193.png" alt="" width="300" height="193" /></a></p><br/>Now some Q&A!<br/><br/>What's in Huntsville Alabama you ask? Jeff's new job! Jeff has been fully self employed with his video work for the past 2 years and while we have thoroughly enjoyed this season of life with him home every day, it's time for a change and a little more stability :) After looking around at multiple jobs around the country, we feel pretty lucky finding a job that is just an hour and a half away from where we currently live in Spring Hill, TN! We are still going to be close to our family and friends and dear city of Nashville and that is a big advantage to Huntsville.Now for some Q & A!<br/><br/>So what's this job? Jeff will be working for Baron Services, a Huntsville based company. I'm gonna steal this tag-line from their <a href="https://www.baronservices.com/">website</a> because they explain it best: Weather monitoring technologies and applications for broadcast, public safety, aviation, marine, ground, and government. All that said, you've probably seen their technology and don't even know it! They have a great video team within their marketing department, and Jeff is excited to be part of a creative team instead of going it alone like the past few years! Baron is a family company that will only continue to grow as long as there is technology and weather, we look forward to becoming a part of this great company.<br/><br/>Jeff has had a great saying while we have been making this decision over the past few weeks: We are excited to go but sad to leave. I think that nails it to a T! If you know me, you know I HAD to make a Pro/Con list and we had so very many things make this list. We are looking forward to the change and excitement of learning a new city and moving to a new home, the financial stability, no more child-care work for me, the benefits (like health insurance!), the fact that it isn't too far away from friends and family, and Jeff's excitement to join a creative team like this. Huntsville also seems like a great city - it's the 2nd smartest city in the US with tons of bioengineering, aerospace, NASA, and on and on. It's also made several top 10 lists of best place to live, work, retire, raise a family, and on and on. It's big but not too big! The Cons list was of course longer: leaving family, friends, missing our church, having to do the actual move (so much work!), moving a 2 year old from all she knows and loves, potentially being unhappy with our new place, and on and on! But even with the cons list being longer than the pro, we felt like there were enough major pros to accept this position and move on with our next season of life.<br/><br/>So when do we leave? What comes next? Well, we are not sure exactly. Jeff and Baron have talked about the option of starting sooner rather than later and doing some work at home and commuting 1-3 days a week. We have to look at the ins and outs of that actually working out. We also have to find a place to live! We have lots of options open to us right now between renting and buying - and yet more pro/con lists of course. Jeff and I hope we can get down there 1-2 more times in the next week to two and really make that decision so we can move onto other decisions - like what to sell, what to pack, what about our dog Brady, and on and on and on! The decisions are a little overwhelming right now but we hope that we can take it step by step. In general, we are thinking that we'd move in about a month.<br/><br/>So what can you do? Pray for us! For these decisions we have to make, for our stress levels, for what this my do to our 2 year old, and for our family and friends that are sad about this transition. Also, if you have any advice about moving with a toddler, or any knowledge about the Huntsville area, I'd love to hear it!! We also need more boxes and packing paper if you have any laying around your garage or if you see a neighbor moving in let me know and I can take the boxes off their hands! We haven't decided what to do about the actual moving - like hiring movers, do it ourselves, etc. So we may be calling on our church family to help us move... thanks in advance?!? And finally, we may or may not be able to take our dear Puggle, Brady. So if you would love a sweet 5 year old pug/beagle mix, we may have one for you. If you are interested in our house... my parents will be looking to either sell it or rent it, so let me know! I hate leaving them in a possible lurch like this.<br/><br/>Thank you all for being such wonderful friends and loved ones and thanks in advance for supporting us through this new phase!<br/><br/>*photo Credit <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.Huntsville-Homes.com/">http://www.Huntsville-Homes.com</a> all rights reserved.<br/><div><span style="line-height: normal;"><br/></span></div>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-11676017591104755172011-06-10T09:46:00.000-07:002013-09-28T12:42:15.850-07:00Then and Now! JuneSo I got inspired by my friend Parker and <a href="http://www.phillipsfamilyblog.com/2011/06/then-now.html">her blog </a>to do a "then and now" post to see what we have been up to the last couple Junes - here we go!<br/><br/>So June 2008 - when Charlotte began her existence and we didn't even know it! Jeff and I went down to Destin and Panama City Beach for vacation and for Jeff's sister Ashley's wedding on the beach! I was a little emotional and not feeling the greatest - who knew, it was because I was pregnant!<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-999" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=999"></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-999" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=999"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-999" title="IMG_0116" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_0116-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><br/><br/>A couple weeks later, we bought a test - voila! (funny story, this test was taken in Super Target! We had one at home that we did but didn't want to just take one so we both called in sick to work, headed to Target, bought the test and a drink and off I went! lol We have always loved Target so I guess it's fitting! Plus, we got to go straight to the baby section and get all goo-goo baby crazy!)<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1000" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1000"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1000" title="IMG_0207" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_0207-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>June 2009 - Charlotte made her arrival in January and is now 5 months old! She was such a very very happy child and pretty easy to take care of too! (and still is!)<br/><div><a rel="attachment wp-att-1001" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1001"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1001" title="IMG_0710" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_0710-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a></div><br/><div>And of course being June the pool was open so we spent lots of sunny days relaxing in the cool waters :)<a rel="attachment wp-att-1009" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1009"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1009 aligncenter" title="OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/P6200073-300x211.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="211" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-1008" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1008"></a></div><br/><div></div><br/><div></div><br/><div><a rel="attachment wp-att-1008" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1008"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1008 aligncenter" title="OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/P6200065-300x274.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="274" /></a></div><br/>June 2010: Charlotte really had fun this year in the water since she was able to walk around with the sprinklers and go down the slide at our rec center pool!<br/><p style="text-align: center;"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1007 aligncenter" title="OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/P6170263-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><img class="size-medium wp-image-1006 aligncenter" title="OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/P6030222-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></p><br/>And here we are at June 2011! We haven't made it to the pool yet this summer, but I know Charlotte is gonna have a blast when we do get to go! For now we are enjoying being indoors in the AC and playing with fun toys like the tent! (and the iPad of course!)<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1004" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1004"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1004" title="IMG_2902" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_2902-224x300.jpg" alt="" width="224" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>And a new favorite food: Cantaloupe! but it HAS to be on a big fork like momma and daddy!<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-1003" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=1003"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1003" title="IMG_2895" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/IMG_2895-224x300.jpg" alt="" width="224" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>So far June 2011 has been a good one! We are looking forward to a week of vacation that will include a trip to Owensboro and Bowling Green Kentucky, and some good ol' summer fun!<br/><br/>What about you? What was June like last year or the year before that? Amazing what changes a year can bring!Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-62184766013484800502011-06-06T10:29:00.000-07:002013-09-28T12:42:15.844-07:00$1 Summer Movies!<a rel="attachment wp-att-994" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=994"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-994" title="Screen shot 2011-06-06 at 5.13.31 PM" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Screen-shot-2011-06-06-at-5.13.31-PM-280x300.png" alt="" width="280" height="300" /></a>I am very excited about a cool thing to do this summer - go to the movies! Charlotte has yet to experience the whole "lets go to the movies" thing - tickets are so expensive we didn't want to chance her not liking it or being too loud and having to leave!<br/><br/>I think this is the perfect way to introduce her to the theatre - Carmike Cinema's Summer Kids Series! Tickets are just $1 per person and the theatre will be filled with other kids and parents so she won't have to be so very quiet! Even if we do have to leave, we have only wasted a couple bucks and not $20+ They even have a $4 kids bucket with popcorn, drink, and fruit snack. How cute! Movies will be shown Thursdays at 10:00am - perfect timing to fit in that afternoon nap still.<br/><br/>We have tons of friends that want to go too, my sister is home for the summer, my Mom usually has Thursdays off, Jeff can always steal away from his work for a couple hours, and of course I have Thursdays off! Looks like you can find us at the theatre most Thursdays :)<br/><br/>You can go <a href="http://www.carmike.com/promotions.aspx?id=107">here</a> to find out more about this great program, I went ahead and called our local theatre Thoroughbred 20 in Franklin/Cool Springs to get exact movie dates. Starting Thursday June 9, they will go in this order:<br/><br/>Hotel for Dogs<br/><br/>How to Train Your Dragon<br/><br/>Kung Foo Panda<br/><br/>Madagascar 1<br/><br/>Madagascar 2<br/><br/>Megamind<br/><br/>Monsters Vs. Aliens<br/><br/>Shrek 1<br/><br/>Shrek 2<br/><br/>The Last Airbender<br/><br/>Obviously some of these movies are too old for my 2 year old daughter, but I think there are quite a few we can go too! If you have any opinions on them (especially for a 2yo girl) please chime in! If you are local and would like to go to the movies with us sometime, let's chat! Charlotte and I would love to have movie friends.<br/><br/>So to recap: $1 per person, per show at 10:00am on Thursday's starting June 9! Whoohoo!<br/><br/>Regal Cinemas is also having a $1 movie program, called Summer Movie Express, on Tuesday and Wednesdays at 10:00. The Regal Cinemas that is closest to me is not showing these movies, so we would have to go to Green Hills. A possibility if we really want to see one of these movies, but I think we'll be good with the ones in Cool Springs :) You can go <a href="http://www.regmovies.com/summermovieexpress/default.aspx">here</a> to find out about their program and what theatre is closest to you! Here is a peek at the Green Hills line up:<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-995" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=995"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-995" title="Screen shot 2011-06-06 at 5.27.45 PM" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Screen-shot-2011-06-06-at-5.27.45-PM.png" alt="" width="815" height="430" /></a>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-142348196022732726.post-59544315405320210142011-04-14T03:53:00.000-07:002013-09-28T12:42:15.835-07:00Nana and Poppa Visit!Charlotte and I had a very long but very enjoyable morning yesterday! We got to spend some great time with Nana (my Dad's mom) and Poppa (Dad's dad)! We used to go up to their house every Wednesday evening and meet my Dad and we would all have dinner together. Both my grandparent's health declined over the past few months so we had to stop these Wednesday visits.<br/><br/>My grandmother was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and has been going through treatments and surgery for that for the past few months. She has handled it all with the best spirit and hopefully just one more surgery then a titch of radiation will be needed and she'll be cancer free. My grandfather has a myriad of issues relating to his heart, diabetes, and spinal stenosis. Because of these issues, plus the fact that my grandmother cannot care for him any longer, he is currently residing in a long term health facility. Unfortunately the facility he is currently in is in Smyrna, about 30 minutes away from Nana's house. Because of these things, we haven't been able to visit as often, but hoping to remedy this soon! Now that I have my Wednesdays off (and soon will have Thursdays too) I'm looking forward to making the visit to Nana's and the trek to Poppa's more often.<br/><br/>Anyway, back to yesterday! We played some at Nana's with all the toys in the toy box, then loaded up in the car and drove to Smyrna. Charlotte was a little freaked out at first as we wound through the halls towards Poppa's room, but after a few minutes in Poppa's room and making friends with a little bunny stuffed animal he had on his window sill, she warmed right up. We got to spend some great time with Poppa! He is looking and acting better than he had in a while, he was actually sitting in a chair vs. the bed, carried on conversation with us, and ate his lunch well too. (all things that haven't happened that well in the past few months) We stayed for about 30-45 minutes until Charlotte was ready for lunch and Poppa was almost ready for an after-lunch-nap. All in all, it was a great visit and I was so happy to see Poppa doing well.<br/><p style="text-align: center;">For those of you that know Nana, you can see how much weight she has lost! She is a whole different woman!</p><br/><p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-985" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=985"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-985" title="IMG_2747" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/IMG_2747-300x231.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="231" /></a>It was difficult to get all 3 of us looking and smiling while Nana was trying to work the iphone camera! :)<br/><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-984" title="IMG_2743" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/IMG_2743-300x237.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="237" /></p><br/>At this point poor Charlotte was past her lunch time and almost at her nap time and we still had a 30 minute drive and had to pick up BBQ for lunch. By the time we got to Nana's Charlotte was just about fed up and ready to eat some lunch! We had a great lunch of BBQ and was able to enjoy a few minutes of outdoor time with Nana before we headed back home.<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-986" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=986"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-986" title="IMG_2750" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/IMG_2750-224x300.jpg" alt="" width="224" height="300" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-987" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=987"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-987" title="IMG_2752" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/IMG_2752-224x300.jpg" alt="" width="224" height="300" /></a><br/><br/>I'm so glad my grandparents/Charlotte's great grandparents live so close that we are able to have visits like this! I'll cherish these memories that Charlotte is making with them.<br/><br/>This is Charlotte after a short nap once we got home at 2:00 - you can see she is still tired! We had a lazy rest of the day and watched Tangled :)<br/><br/><a rel="attachment wp-att-988" href="http://www.houseoflyons.com/?attachment_id=988"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-988" title="IMG_2753" src="http://www.houseoflyons.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/IMG_2753-208x300.jpg" alt="" width="208" height="300" /></a>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13112927442585936226noreply@blogger.com1