{Rawlings Report}

{love}

2011-06-27T09:38:00.002-05:00

Oh how I love headbands. And oh how I love baby girls! Combine the two.... be still my heart!

Could there be anything sweeter? I'm not sure.

Do you need a headband for your favorite baby? Contact me on facebook and I can send you some lovelies!

{update}

2011-06-22T20:50:00.000-05:00

From Callie's mom....

Quick Update PRAISE THE LORD

Dr. Donahue just came in and surprised us with a wonderful update. She is currently getting her MRI surgical scan, so he came down to give us an update. He came in smiling and his first words to us were, "We have had a surprisingly wonderful day of surgery. I expected to be here at least until 6pm tonight working on her, but I feel very confident that I was able to get all of it, but am waiting to see the scan results. He told us that he feels as though the tumor is still looking like it is a malignant brain tumor called Ependamoma and these type of tumors normally try to attach to other parts of the brain and his words were "SURPRISINGLY her tumor was not attached to very many places" and was only attached to the brain stem in a very small area. He went ahead and detached it from the brain stem and feels as though time will tell what complications she will have from that. We have already experienced one miracle today and we need fervent prayer that Callie will come out of today's surgery with the least amount of complications. As we are posting this update we got news that the scan showed no signs of the tumor. PRAISE GOD!!!!! They are finishing closing her up as we speak, so pray for Callie as they finish up and then as they try to take her breathing tube out. She is strong and doing great but our God is stronger and protecting our little girl. We cannot give enough thanks to God for all He has done!! Please pray a prayer of thanksgiving and we thank everyone for their prayers yesterday, today and in the future as we continue to fight this battle with our God.

{prayer}

2011-06-21T21:58:00.002-05:00

Callie Cochran is a 22 month old little girl.

Her parents attend the church we went to in Abilene. after experiencing symptoms for 3 weeks, the doctors called for a CT scan yesterday and found a tumor in her cerebellum the size of a peach. last night Callie and her parents Phil and Courtney headed to Cooks. today after more tests the doctors confirmed her tumor and are almost certian that her tumor is malignant. they are not sure if the tumor is wrapped around her brainstem or not.

this is an update from Callie's mom, posted on facebook earlier this evening:

"Talked to the drs and she has peach size tumor in the back of her brain that is consuming most of the back portion of her brain. He informed us that almost always these tumors are malignant. He also feels that it is certain that she will have some type of side effects. Our prayers are for a benign tumor that doesn't involve the brain stem, no complications during and after surgery and that she would be the same Callie!!! Please pray for wisdom and skill for Dr Donahue and all staff that will come in contact with her. Our hearts r hurting but not broken. We serve a MIGHTY GOD!! If you would please join us in endless PRAYER And FASTING for our SWEET CALLIE!!"

please stop and pray for Callie. pray for her doctors. pray for her nurses and the staff at Cooks.

pray for Phil and Courtney. pray for her brother Carson who is 4 years old. pray for her family.

cry out to The Lord for peace, comfort, and understanding. You are Mighty O' Lord. You are our ultimate healer and comforter. You are the most high!

most of all, please send this post out to your friends, your Sunday School class, your Life Groups, everyone you know and ask them to stop and pray for Callie tomorrow at 7am as her surgery starts.

pray for Callie.

{theblondecook}

2011-06-19T09:09:00.003-05:00

The other day, Josiah sent me to the store to buy some items for a marinade he wanted to try out. I came home with all but a few items on the list. After looking over the things I purchased and comparing with the list, he asked me.... "Where's the dry red wine?"

To which I answered, "I couldn't find powdered wine anywhere!"

.....

I don't know what to blame, my lack of expertise in cooking.....or my blonde hair.

Probably a combination of both.

{m&m}

2011-06-16T09:59:00.002-05:00

The candy? No! Moonlight & Mason Jars.....my little baby! As I mentioned in my last post, I've been busy with my paintbrush and sander trying to prepare some pretty things to add to our booth! Here are the 2 latest additions:

{shabby chic drop leaf table} I LOVE drop leaf tables. Can I keep it for myself please?!?!

{gray distressed vanity with mirror} Where do I begin? If {and when!} I have a little girl {cause of course I'll have a girl right?!} I want her to have a vanity just like this in her room when she's elementary aged. Can't you just picture a little blonde haired beauty sitting on a stool brushing her hair??? Ok... I'll stop. But really, I know I'm biased....but this vanity is to die for!!

Please head over to our WEBSITE and give us some love!!! We are also on FACEBOOK.

{wibut}

2011-06-15T07:42:00.003-05:00

{What*I've*Been*Up*To} in no particular order.....

*eating lots of seafood and sushi

*painting,sanding,sealing....repeat....and repeat...and repeat

*helping Angela with moonlight&masonjars "sister" company {Hemstitch Vintage Rentals}

*buying new dresses

*making headbands! {inspiration}

*going to spouses' meetings {Angela and i are now co*coordinators of the student spouses group here!}

*sweating my booty off at the beach {it's pretty darn hot here now!}

*flew to TX for my cousin's bachelorette weekend

*trying to maintain a workout regime

*blog stalking {casey, cherish, danielle}

*pinning {pinterest}

*anticipating my WHOLE, ENTIRE family's visit to Destin {cousins, aunts, uncles....everyone!}

*looking for gold, strappy heels for my cousin's wedding {help!}

*figuring out my new phone {so long iphone....hello droid!}

*procrastinating on getting my hair done {equals major roots}

*watching the weather 24*7 to see if a hurricane is coming

*missing American Idol {i loved lauren}

*snuggling with the Dor*Monster {little*love}

*trying not to stare at my husband when he's in uniform

*making multiple to*do lists

*thinking i need an ipad

ok ok....so now you're caught up! I promise I'm going to start doing this again on a regular basis....cause you all miss me? Right?!

{blogger's*block}

2011-06-13T06:46:00.002-05:00

I've been gone. M.I.A from the blogging world. Kinda... I still read every day, but I can't pull myself together to write anything. I just don't have anything to say. Only one way to describe it....

I've had probably 5 or 6 people in the past week ask me why I haven't been blogging. Well, I just don't know what to write about. So what do y'all want to hear about? What would you like to see? Have you heard about Pinterest? Cause that's what I've been spending alot of time doing, pinning, not writing!!

{alone}

2011-04-21T08:30:00.006-05:00

{I am borrowing this from Meg @ Whatever}

I've always loved this song and the lyrics. This song was sung at my grandpa's funeral. It was a sad time for my family. Three weeks after that, when my grandma died, was even sadder. It was Easter Sunday when Bobby died. This is the perfect Easter song. Bursting forth from the grave. Hmm.... I'll quit talking, just listen to the song...it speaks for itself!

{braid}

2011-04-12T08:54:00.000-05:00

Why don't my braids look like this?

Ah....maybe someday!

{hope*change}

2011-04-08T08:29:00.003-05:00

Dear Obama,

Nice form. You must be a great ball player. But I have a question for you. Was this what you had in mind when you campaigned on "hope" and "change?"

I'm no expert on the matter, but clearly neither are you. Doesn't seem anyone is. I know this isn't specifically and solely YOUR fault; just like I know that the war on Iraq wasn't George W. Bush's fault. I sure hope you and your Congress can come to an agreement soon and I mean ASAP. Are you going to go PERSONALLY tell that soldier overseas fighting for our country's freedom that he won't get paid on the 15th? Probably not. But I'm sure that you will address the country on PrimeTime tv and interrupt every tv show on every channel. And then, you claim that this upcoming week is now national volunteer week. What a great coincidence!?! These men and women already volunteer their LIVES for you, and now you're asking them to volunteer in the sense that they won't get compensated "until the budget is agreed upon?" How long will that be? Doesn't seem like republicans and democrats can come to an agreement on anything! I wonder if you will volunteer as well, and not receive your pay, however outrageous it may be. I wonder if the congressional members who are sitting comfortably in the cushy chairs will give up their pay? My gut says no. But your expecting that soldier on foot, carefully watching his every step in fear of stepping on an IED.....or that lonely airman flying combat missions in Iraq.....to VOLUNTEER???? {AKA voluntold...aka we're telling you to volunteer to give up your pay. and be ok with it.} SORRY......but they're ALL TO USED to being "VOLUNTOLD." Please, for the sake of all people who would like to remain sane in this crazy world, come to an agreement.

Sincerely,

A Lonely Military Wife {because my husband is off training to fight for your country}

{doggy*contest}

2011-04-07T13:50:00.003-05:00

Show love to your favorite French Bulldog! Please click here to vote for Dori! She'll love you forever!! {I will to!}

{embrace}

2011-04-07T11:44:00.002-05:00

{embrace the camera. get in front of the lens.}

{my new glasses from my boy...part of my valentines :)}

{whatIwear}

2011-04-06T08:17:00.004-05:00

What I wore Wednesday. Well...Sorta. For now...until my edit later on...it will be what I WEAR. As in....makeup....my everyday makeup/favorite beauty items. I've seen several people do posts like this and I love them {because I'm always looking for new beauty ideas} so maybe you will like it too. Or maybe you wont ;)

{starting from the last thing I apply, ending with the first}

Mascara: voluminous million lashes by l'oreal in black {this is just a trial run....I have always used the pink tube mascara and love it!}

Eyeliner: cover girl perfect point plus in espresso {love this eyeliner. self*sharpening. easy application.}

Eyeshadow: Mac "pink freeze" {under eyebrows and in corners}
Mac "Satin Taupe" on lid

Mac Bronzer in "Golden"

Mac Studio Fix Powder

{ I love MAC. I know it's a little on the more expensive side, but it lasts forever and they have a program where you can save your empty containers and turn them in to get something free!!!}

For beauty:

Shampoo/Conditioner: I switch off between Aveda Rosemary Mint and TIGI Dumb Blonde

Bodywash: Dove Visible Care softening creme

Makeup Remover: Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towlettes

Toothepaste: Crest pro*health

Nail Polish: OPI {fav color right now: Suzi Skis in the Pyrenees}

{hurt}

2011-04-05T08:02:00.003-05:00

* Disclaimer: This is a post about God, religion, and protesting. It is MY opinion. This is not an attempt to upset anyone, I am just speaking my mind and describing a scene I saw that hurts my heart.*

On soapbox. I am a Christian. There I said it. I hope you already knew that. I know what I believe. I spent many days of my younger years in the church {I'm talking like 3/7 days per week}. I've gone on numerous youth choir trips where I stood on the streets, singing and proclaiming what I believe. I went to Trinity Christian Academy & Baylor University. I have been completely engulfed in Christianity and religion for the majority of my life {and I wouldn't have had it any other way}.

That is until I got married....was flung into military life....and out of the Bible bubble that I was so familiar with. For the first time, got laughed at, in my face, for what I believe. And guess what??? I am STILL a Christian. I STILL believe that Jesus is the only way to heaven. If anything, I believe this even more firmly now. But you want to know ONE thing that bugs the EVER*LIVING*DAYLIGHTS out of me???

THIS:

And THIS:

WHAT IN THE WORLD??? Have these "Christians" lost their minds???? I understand freedom of speech and I understand "witnessing" and "reaching the world for the gospel." But let me ask you this.....as cliche as it is....it rings true. IS THAT WHAT JESUS WOULD HAVE DONE????? WOULD HE HAVE STOOD ON THE STREET CORNERS YELLING AND SCREAMING AT PEOPLE? SCREAMING TO THEM THEY ARE DAMNED TO HELL??? OR THAT GOD IS PUNISHING THEM?

This past weekend, a group of my friends and I went out to dinner and then went to a piano bar afterwards {yes, I went to a piano bar...gasp!} When we were walking into the bar, there was a group of about 50 people holding signs, picketing, protesting.....yelling and screaming.....stating things such as "WHOREMONGERS GO TO HELL." {among other things} After laughing at first because of their use of the word WHOREMONGER.....I really started to get eeerked. Do you think Jesus wants us to stand on the corner and hurl insults at "sinners?" Let me tell you. I was with some "NON*CHRISTIANS" and these actions were not received well. I propose that....Jesus would have joined them.....hung out with them.....became their friend.... led by example. ??????????? AM I WRONG HERE???? IS THIS NOT WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS? WEREN'T HIS BEST FRIENDS TAX COLLECTORS, ETC....COMMON, EVERY DAY PEOPLE....WHOREMONGERS FOR LACK OF A BETTER WORD????

And what about Matthew 6:5 ....

"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full."

I'm not here to judge those people. But it really hurts my heart to see these people that claim to be Christians who have somehow missed the part in the Bible where it calls us to love, to lead by example, to befriend your enemies, to form relationships with people....so that they may see something different in you???? These people are giving Christians all over the place a bad name in my opinion. I mean, I'm sure Christians have always had a bad name to some.....but come on, really? DO YOU REALLY THINK THAT THOSE ACTIONS PARALLEL WHAT JESUS WOULD HAVE DONE OR WOULD HAVE YOU TO DO?

Off soapbox!

{lovely}

2011-04-04T11:08:00.002-05:00

A few lovely things in my life.....

{zonked}

{cutest}

{brides}

2011-04-03T20:19:00.003-05:00

Weddings. Photo shoots. Vintage. Shabby Chic. Glam. At moonlight & mason jars, we are dipping our feet in a new industry potentially. Check out this giveaway for brides in the Pensacola Area:Oeil Photography.

{missed}

2011-03-31T09:34:00.002-05:00

I was told that my guest blogger was missed {of course it was just my mom that told me this}. Is it true?? Do people miss the Dor Monster? I stopped doing it because part of me thought it was super corny and no one really cared what my dog was up to.

But if we were honest with ourselves....we all know that we love seeing pics of this little girl!!

{promise i'm not strangling her}

{whatiwore*wednesday}

2011-03-30T16:10:00.002-05:00

I'm gonna try a new thing....Linking up with The Pleated Poppy for What I Wore. You're supposed to take a pic every day but I'm just gonna do Wednesdays!

{gray tank-Hollister, jeans-American Eagle}

{tan wedges-Target}

{gold watch-Swath "fullblooded", silver pearl bracelet-White House/Black Market}

{right*there}

2011-03-30T13:50:00.003-05:00

{I couldn't have said it better myself. This feeling or wishing is all too familiar.}

{showandtell}

2011-03-29T08:26:00.003-05:00

Josiah's squadron had a show and tell for the students and spouses to see the planes that the CSO students could potentially end up on! I had a great time checking out the planes even though Josiah couldn't make it.

{f*15}

{Sim. John. Houston. hanging out by the ac130 gunship}

{gunship prop}

{f*15}

{the boys minus josiah}

{my fav was the ac130!!!}

{stalker}

2011-03-25T11:29:00.001-05:00

As I was getting ready for the day, I got the weird sensation that someone was watching me.

.....Shoulda known it was her :)

{confessions}

2011-03-24T08:18:00.003-05:00

*no matter how many times my husband leaves, I NEVER get used to it.

*I love my dog more than I EVER imagined loving an animal

*silly movies like Blue Crush & Sister Act 2 make me smile

*I miss my friends & family alot...even though I may not tell them {all of you}

*I REALLY love Florida. Like really.

*I haven't made my bed in about a week

*Music from Glee might be the best!

* I TRY to go at least 2 days without washing my hair cause they say it's better for you, but I just.cant.do.it.

Your turn. Fess up.

{intheworks}

2011-03-22T09:55:00.004-05:00

Josiah and I have been busy planning a trip to go on before he starts CSO school. We were hoping for a later school date so we could go with our friends from Abilene, the Fisks, to Europe in early June. But....we all know the air force and know that would've been too good to be true and Jo starts school May 5. So that leaves us 2 weeks in between schools to squeeze in a vacation. You better believe we are doing it! Here's what's in the works.....

First stop.....4 park hopper pass to Disney! Yup, Orlando will be the first place we go to!

Then, we are going to drive over to Miami Beach and hang out there for a few days.

After that, we are going to drive down the Key West and spend the remainder of our vacation there. I'm heading to the travel office in a few minutes to book our reservations and could not be more excited!

Disclaimer* remember way back 2 1/2 years ago when Jo and I got married and never went on a honeymoon?? Well...we are finally getting the opportunity to take a trip JUST US!!! Hooray!

{boy}

2011-03-20T13:05:00.003-05:00

I've always wanted a baby girl. I love all things ribbons and bows and leggings and little tiny boots. But this girl...kinda makes me want to have a boy. {ya know...whenever I actually have a baby} But really...I would love my baby no matter if it were a girl or a boy.

Bottom line: check out Scottyboy and Katygirl {my new fav blog}

{sun}

2011-03-14T08:00:00.002-05:00

We had the craziest/busiest weekend, but it was so much fun! We started out our Saturday morning running a 5k that a local restaurant, McGuires, put on. It was pretty much mass chaos... just like I'm sure any run is {recall Turkey Trot in downtown Dallas 2 years ago!}. It was a prediction run where when you register, you guess how fast you will run it, then there's a chip on your number that tracks your start/finish time. We got the results today...Josiah got 300th place for his age group in regards to how close he was to his guess....and I got 74th. I was only off of my guess by 30 seconds!

Here is a pic of our group after the race. It was pretty much a huge party!

Right after the race, we headed over to Pensacola Beach where we laid/played on the beach for about 3 hours. That night, we dressed up as redneck as possible and went to the Monster Truck show. Here's Josiah's outfit:

Always a character! Needless to say, the Monster Truck show was like nothing I've ever experienced. It was SO SO LOUD. I think I was plugging my ears the whole time. Our next goal is to hit up a race at the local race track. And of course, we will dress up then too!

Yesterday, we spent the day at the beach again then hit up the local fish market and got some salmon and shrimp that we grilled up for dinner last night. Josiah made some AMAZING spinach dip. Melt in your mouth kind!

It was also a doggy date for Clara, Dori, and Ollie. We had so much fun, but now it's back to work!

A few pieces sold from the booth last week so I will be back at it with the painting and distressing this week!!

{fad}

2011-03-11T08:19:00.002-06:00

There are a few styles that have come, and I'm glad they are gone. But I really think it's funny how most things will inevitably come back in style. There are a few things that are "hip" this spring and I am so glad! Flare jeans. I like you. Now dont get me wrong.... I think skinny jeans are super cute. Absolutely great with boots. I love the look. But flare jeans are a little more forgiving. A little more friendly for those of us that aren't a size 0. I love this look that L.C. is rockin' below.

And while we are at it. Wedges. Yes! I love them....and they're back!!! I am so so glad that i kept some of my "old" jeans and a few pairs of wedges. Now, I can fit right back in!!

I've already started sporting. Have you? What fads do you love/are glad have come back???

{1*thing}

2011-03-09T08:07:00.003-06:00

What is 1*thing in your daily routine that you absolutely could not do without???

My answer to this used to be a Sonic drink. I love me some sonic ice. A friend from Baylor used to tell me that she could tell it was me driving down the road cause I always had a sonic cup in my hand. Eh...whoops! But I firmly believe that my answer to this question is NOT a sonic drink.

The ONE thing that I could not do without is my morning cup of coffee. For real. It starts my day right. Puts a smile on my face. Forces me to sit down, take some time for myself, and relax. Coffee never does me wrong :)

Now, I'm curious. Spill it. What's the 1*thing {that's part of your daily routine} that you can't live without?

{listsof4}

2011-03-07T19:58:00.003-06:00

So I stumbled upon what I think might be my new favorite blog tonight. It's Kiwi Freckles. After devouring her posts {I'm talking I've been reading since like 4...and it's almost 8. embarrassed??} I saw a post that I liked and decided to copy. So here's my lists of fours {as originally seen here}.

4 shows I watch:

American Idol {j*lo is hot...don't deny it, those girls are rockin', i cant help but watch it}

Hellcats {there, I admitted it. I watch hellcats. cheerleading. drama. im hooked. plus i have a girl crush on ashley tisdale. dont judge me}

Army Wives {again. drama. but to be honest...it's very realistic to life as a military wife. so i watch. and enjoy}

Rachel Ray {cant stand her. she annoys the ever livin poo out of me. but i cant help but watch. i think that its because im certain i will become a better cook by watching}

4 things I'm passionate about {in no particular order}:

Family {love. heart. smiles. cant get enough}

Jesus {reason.for.living}

Being a good wife {i owe it to my boy to be the best wife i can be}

Friends {new. old. i try to be a good friend. i make mistakes. but real friends accept me for who i am. friends help me get through times without my boy. life as a military wife is near impossible without a good support system}

4 phrases I say alot:

Like {embarrassing. but i do say like alot. especially when im telling a story. this was brought to my attention just recently. i guess im like a valley girl.

What {also an embarrassment. i cant hear. so i ask what? way too often. sorry.

Huh {see description to item above...}

Whatever {again. valley girl. again. embarrassing.}

4 things I learned from the past:

Stand up for yourself {i feel like when i was in middle school and high school i was constantly getting walked on by people and taken advantage of because i didnt voice my opinion or stand for myself and my feelings. ive learned to speak my mind. there's a fine line to be walked when it comes to this and im afraid {actually i know} it hasnt always been accepted well....but im still confident its a good thing to stick up for what you're thinkin!

You don't have to do everything {i wouldn't change the way that i grew up and i am thankful that my parents gave me the opportunity to be involved in numerous activities and sports. but i kinda feel like im a jack of all trades and a master of nothing. i can do alot of things kinda mediocre-ly. im not like way good at anything. i kinda wish i had focused a little more on a particular sport or activity and been really good at it. but dont get me wrong... i really like that i can do several things...so now im backtracking....i.dont.know}

Learn to cook in high school {blah. mistake. regret. mom....i shoulda paid more attention to your kitchen skillzzzzzzzzz}

Dont get your hopes up {for all you military wives out there. or girls with husbands who travel/have a random work schedule. its hard to plan for trips. its hard to make decisions about holidays. its hard to map your life out. so just go with the flow. be flexible. and dont get your heart set on something. it will lead to sadness.

4 things I did yesterday {i shoulda waited and done this post tomorrow because i was much more productive today than i was yesterday}:

Sleep {we slept in. i also took a nap. i was tired. its unexplainable}

Sit {we sat on the couch. all day. it was a couch day. do you have those?}

Eat {we got off the couch to drive to checkers. it's fast food. dont judge. we needed to eat in a bad way. and boy did we eat. we both got combo meals. large size. and we got desserts too. hmmm.}

Watch TV {part of couch day is movie marathon day. but now josiah is on a documentary kick. so it was documentary marathon day. doesnt sound as good does it.}

4 things I'm looking forward to:

Visitors {crista is coming in april. my family is all coming out in july. hopefully i can get some more people out here in the mean time. hint hint wink wink. its the beach. its amazing. come see!}

Trips {josiah and i are hoping to squeeze in a fun trip before he starts cso training in may. fingers crossed. but hopes not up...remember ;) }

Friendships {we have already really been blessed with an awesome group of friends here in florida. its amazing the people God puts in your path. i cant wait for these friendships to grow, and also to meet new people as well}

Business growth {with the opening of my new booth, im really excited to see where it goes and grows. hoping it works out and is a success. but if not, its still ok because painting furniture is something i really enjoy and dont consider to be "work"}

4 things I love about winter:

Boots

Scarves

Leggings

Cardigans

4 things on my wishlist:

Workout clothes { im back on the crossfit wagon and i am convinced ill stay on it with some cute workout clothes. right??}

Friend {for dori. but not another dog. do you see where im going with this? yup its true. i want one}

Furniture {to be painted. and distressed. and loved. and SOLD.}

HOBO wallet {leather. so cute. long lasting. much better than the roxy one i own now.}

WHAT??? IT'S OVER? YOU READ THIS FAR??? THANKS FRIENDS! DO YOU FEEL LIKE YOU REALLY KNOW ME KNOW???

I think you should partake in these lists as well. It was fun. I promise.

{winner}

2011-03-07T07:44:00.003-06:00

Congrats to Camille at The Jennings Secede the winner of Casey's giveaway. What did she win???? Check it out: chicken wire frame. You too could be a proud owner of one of the babies. I'm about to put one up in my kitchen to put recipes and pictures on!!!

{button}

2011-03-05T15:46:00.002-06:00

I got a button!!! Please grab the link {to the right and down...on my sidebar} and put it on your page if you are a Rawlings Report reader. I'd love you forever!!!

{just*lovely}

2011-03-04T08:23:00.003-06:00

Well, I shouldn't tell you about this. If I tell you about this...I'm lessening my chances of winning. But I have to...it's too perfect not to. If you know me, you know that I love all things headbands and hair clips and bows etc. My source for inspiration is my friend Casey at The Wiegands. {Yes, I did just blog about her yesterday, but let's be honest, I could blog about her every day. I'll say it again, if you don't read her blog YOU.ARE.MISSING.OUT. Well, she's got yet another GIVEAWAY. So generous right???? Check out her blog to find the most amazing etsy shop jam-packed full of wonderful headbands. {but if you don't, I won't hate you because then I might actually win :)}

{giveaway}

2011-03-03T08:42:00.003-06:00

Please go to my friend Casey Wiegand's blog and check out her amazing giveaway. It is actually 4 giveaways in 1.

All you have to do is follow her blog and leave comments on her page. Also, if you would please follow me here at Rawlings Report and also add Moonlight and Mason Jars to your blog list. Check out Casey's blog to see the amazing things she's offering! You wont regret following her blog, it's absolutely precious!!!

{artsy}

2011-03-02T16:36:00.005-06:00

Not me. I'm not artsy. Painting furniture is easy, but painting a canvas...and making it look like something....that's a different ballgame! So you can imagine my anxiety when I replied "yes" to a Painting with a Twist party. Apparently these things are the new rage. It's in a studio and you invite whoever you want and there's an instructor who teaches you how to paint a pre*selected picture. I knew I would probably walk out of there with a canvas full of unidentifiable blobs....but much to my surprise that was not the case!!

Our instructor {i'm bad and have already forgotten her name!}

My sketch. She told us literally step by step what to do. It was simple as "Draw a line to the middle of your canvas." I can do that right? Apparently.

After the sketch was drawn, we busted out the paint. Me +paint + furniture=FUN! Me + paint + canvas=also FUN!

We named the fish Bart. Some of the wives that were there:

Ah! I was seriously so shocked that I could even recognize the shape and form of what I was creating.

And there you have it folks! The finished product. You can see this sign live and in person in Pensacola Beach when you come visit!!!

It was seriously so much fun. I recommend this sort of get together for any group!! Very entertaining! Even for you non*artsy folk like myself!

{revelation!}

2011-03-01T17:33:00.002-06:00

OKIE DOKIE FRIENDS AND FAMILY!! IT'S TIME FOR THE BIG REVELATION THAT I PROMISED WOULD HAPPEN ON MARCH 1ST. THIS HAS BEEN MY LITTLE BABY FOR THE PAST MONTH AND I COULD NOT BE MORE EXCITED AND GRATEFUL FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SOMETHING I LOVE. SO WITHOUT FURTHER ADIEU.....CHECK IT OUT:

MOONLIGHT AND MASON JARS {<------ click there!!!}

{please let me know what you think by leaving a comment!!! I will still be keeping this personal blog but will be updating our website often, as well as getting a facebook page and twitter acct. if it goes as well as we hope, we will also be looking into an Etsy shop so we can ship!}

{lostyetloved}

2011-02-28T08:33:00.005-06:00

I had a post planned for today, but I changed my mind. That can come later. I've got something I want to write about.

http://www.foxnews.com/world/2011/02/28/officials-4-dead-uae-plane-crash/

Yes. It has been confirmed that 2 of those people were Landon Studer and Josh Hucklebridge....2 guys that I went to high school with. I was not best friends with these guys, but some of my friends were. Our class was left speechless last night. In shock. It's amazing how we live life day to day, and don't even think about the certainty of death. You don't know that when your husband leaves for work in the morning, that that may be the last time you see him. These lives were taken too early in our eyes. Landon had a wife and a 2 year old son. Josh leaves behind a loving father who attended EVERY single one of his football games. We are left wondering, "What happened?" "Landon has been flying planes for as long as we can remember..." " He was an Air Force pilot...the best of the best right???" {This one weighs heavily on my mind right now as my husband begins flight training with the Air Force.} But the reality of it is....our life is not our own. It's not in our hands. It's not our choice to determine when our time will come. And you know... that's a GOOD thing! God NEVER makes mistakes. He KNEW and this was HIS plan. We don't understand it now and I know so many hearts are hurting, grieving, and questioning. I sit here and wonder why another friend from high school died of a brain tumor a few months ago. She was only 29. Or why Kate Mcrae, a little 7 year old girl, is hanging on to her precious life by a thread. The list goes on and on. Why were both of my grandparents taken from us only weeks apart? They were supposed to be at my wedding...be there to hold my baby. But as Christians...we HAVE to remember this life is not the life we live for. Our time here is fleeting....for some, more so than others. So while you are here, LOVE. Love with all you have. Speak what's on your heart. Don't let relationships fade away. Live every day as if it were your last, because you never know that it might be.

**Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Psalm 62:5**

{the*flannagans}

2011-02-27T11:28:00.002-06:00

Ok so remember when I went to Georgia last week to see my friend Terri? I thought I'd do a post about her because she's so amazing. I am so so glad that I am closer to her now so I can take advantage and see her and her cutie baby and hubs.

I love that the time I spent with her was real. We didnt have to be "doing" something. We just sat and talked on her back porch. Caught up. And I loved it. We went and worked out together. We watched our shows together. Might not sound like your normal vacay right?? But it was exactly what I needed and made my heart feel warm. When you move away from your bestest friends, there is a void in your soul. You live your life and move on and try not to focus on it because there's nothing you can do about it. But it's not until you see them, and pick up right where you left off, and have the time of your life do you realize that those are your true friends. Terri and I don't talk on the phone, don't email, don't "catch up"..{of course I stalk her blog and fb} but it doesn't matter. She's a friend that I don't have to keep up with and when we see it's other.....it's as if we are back in elementary or high school and we never skipped a beat.

I mean, we went to Zumba {which was really just a hiphop class} and I was smiling ear to ear and it felt just like the good ol' days of youth choir tour, dancing around with my friend! Of course we went to Chilis and indulged in chips and queso and DP...just for old times sake. The only thing that's really changed is that she now has this precious little boy! I can't wait for them to come see me or for me to go see them again. It was absolutely the best time and I am thankful for my friendship with this little girl!

{mrs*meyer's}

2011-02-24T08:45:00.002-06:00

I'm in love. With Mrs. Meyer's cleaning products. Sounds silly huh? A cleaning product is a cleaning product right? Well....Mrs. Meyer's has brought a whole new meaning to cleaning. There's something about Clorox spray that just SMELLS clean. I like that. But it doesn't smell pretty. It doesn't make you go "Ahhhh." Mrs. Meyer's does. There are a few different scents like Basil, Lavender, and Geranium. I have had the countertop spray for a few months now. I wipe my counters down with it ever morning. It's a fresh start to my day.

I am not crazy about the Basil scent which is what my countertop spray is and when I went to Terri's house last week, I fell in love with a Mrs. Meyer's product she had: Liquid Hand Soap in Geranium. Oh my gosh. This stuff makes me want to wash my hands all the time. The smell is delectable! I had to go get myself some!

I definitely recommend her products. You can find them at Walmart or I'm sure at a place like Whole Foods or Trader Joe's. If you don't have one of those places, you can order online. It will be worth it I promise.

Oh, and this girl says hi.

{lo*siento}

2011-02-23T21:05:00.003-06:00

To my dear Rawlings Report readers...I'm sorry. I feel like I've deserted you. Left you hanging high and dry. Please accept my apologies. I'm up to my elbows in sand and paint. Sand from playing on the beach, and paint from...well...painting. Yup....I'm back at it. Painting furniture like it's going out of style. Also, have you looked at the date? It's almost March 1. Which means....it's almost time for you to find out what I'm up to and why I'm so m.i.a. But I'll leave you with this goodness:

{love me some mason jars!}

{vacation?}

2011-02-22T07:23:00.002-06:00

No. I am not on vacation. This is my home. At least for the next year +. Can you believe it?!? Such a drastic difference from good ol' Abilene, TX. We spent 2 days at the beach this weekend....in FEBRUARY! It was so relaxing and beautiful.

Josiah and Houston waiting for the frisbee.

The boys. I heart this pic so much!! Houston, Sim, Josiah, and Jobes {all went to OTS together and Sim and Hou are now here at CSO school with Josiah}

The group on Saturday.

I see many more days like this in our future and it couldn't make me happier. What did YOU do this weekend??

{re*cap}

2011-02-19T07:35:00.002-06:00

Where have I been? Some of you may have wondered, some of you may have not.... For those of you that are curious....here's a recap of the week were I was m.i.a.

*spent an amazing weekend with my hubs in Montgomery

*ate way too much food with him {we even went out to breakfast!}

*got some new workout shoes

*came home to a beautiful rose and the sweetest note ever on Valentines Day

*went to a fantastic dinner at an italian restaurant in Montgomery for Vday

*drove 1 and 1/2 hrs from Mont. to Columbus, GA to see my friend Terri

*shopped at the Blue Door Boutique {check em out on facebook!}

*had panera for the first time

*went to Centergy at Gold's Gym with T

*tried a new starbucks drink...yummm {what was it called T?}

*spent the afternoons in the sun talking and drinking vino

*had yummy steak and tried spinach {and loved it!}

*went to Target {of course!}

*got chips and queso from Chilis {a-maz-ing}

*went to "zumba" at Gold's Gym {not your typical zumba....it was more hip hop...SO MUCH fun! I had a smile on my face the WHOLE TIME!}

*left my T to drive back to P'cola :(

*cleaned my house like a madwoman

*greeted my hubby and his friend at the door then a group of us headed to The Crab Trap for dinner

Up next: BEACH AND BBQ {all weekend!} with my amazing hubs and friends!!!

{that whole week away and not a single pic. shame shame. Promise to get some this weekend!!}

{You're still reading?? Thanks! I love you too!}

{happiness*is}

2011-02-08T09:14:00.002-06:00

I am so happy right now. I really can't explain it. I am miles and miles from family and friends....but I wake up every morning feeling blessed and excited! A few reasons why I am so happy:

1. A husband that makes me smile!

2. Friends! I have been so lucky to make some great friends here in Pensacola already

3. Secrets! Ahhhh I am so so excited to tell you about what I have been busy doing. Look for the big reveal MARCH 1st!

So many other things....I can't list them all but happiness is truly the best thing!

{birthday*party}

2011-02-03T09:40:00.003-06:00

Dori here!! Sorry I am a few days late on my blog post...but we've been so busy! Not to mention that yesterday was my first birthday!!! I had a doggie play date/birthday party with my friends Turbo and Clara Belle! It was so much fun!! {It was our first time to meet Turbo and he wore us out!!} Here is the pie my mom made me! {even though I didn't get to eat any of it!}

I was so out of breath and my tongue was constantly hanging out my mouth!

Mom helped me blow out my candle!

Making myself at home on the tabletop in the middle of the girls' dice game. {I had to find a place of refuge from the other puppies so I could catch my breath!}

Taking a break with Clara!

Pretty Clara Belle with her boa { i don't know how to spell that!!}

There's me and Turbo. My mom had such a hard time getting a picture of the three of us together. We're so rowdy!

{See the piece of furniture behind us? You could be the proud owner of that! It has a hutch too!}

We had so much fun and I passed out the second the other dogs left! I got some new treats that I can't get enough of! What a happy doggy day!

{sweet*find}

2011-02-02T08:11:00.000-06:00

The sweetest find....

I'm in love!!!

{greasy*sac}

2011-01-31T09:14:00.002-06:00

I went to Destin twice this weekend. I'm going back today. It's fun!! {I keep going back to collect things & prepare to reveal my "secrets."} On the way there, there's a city called Navarre. Take note of this...because we are crossing our fingers and saying our prayers that we end up here after jo's training! Our Aggie friends {Angela&Houston} have some Aggie friends that live and Navarre and have a favorite hot spot that we just had to hit!

TOPS burgers:

It was good. But it was bad. Good for the soul, bad for the bod! Their slogan? "Home of the greasy sac!" What?!? And yet...we ate. And we enjoyed. Now, it's off to the gym!!!

{precious}

2011-01-30T10:33:00.002-06:00

There are few moments as precious as this: the return of a deployment. The thought of that will bring a tear to my eyes any day.

{my friend teara reuniting with her husband after a 6 month deployment}

Wedding days are indescribable and the birth of a baby is breath*taking. But seeing your love, your dad or mom, son or daughter, return home after being gone for any length of time....doing what only a few are so brave enough to do.....that is a precious moment.

{dependasaurus}

2011-01-28T15:04:00.002-06:00

....an extension to my post the other day about my love for sweats.

So after my "episode" in the closet the other day, my friend Angela & I made our way to the Navy Hospital for our doctors appts. She was seeing the dermatologist and I was seeing my new PCM {regular dr for all you civilians}. After we were done, she was telling me about an ad she had read in the magazine "Military Spouse." It described us in a nutshell. It described my experience with my closet/clothes in a nutshell. I had to find this article and read it for myself. Well, I just did. And it rings true. And I'm sure it will for all you other military spouses or anyone who has a husband who leaves for an extended period of time. Here's an excerpt from the article:

"Enter the Dependasaurus

Dependasaurus (noun): A spouse of a military service person who has let himself or herself go, usually during a deployment. Such creatures are known to gain excess weight, not practice proper hygiene and care little for their appearance. They are often seen at the commissary pushing a cart full of screaming children and Little Debbie Snack Cakes while wearing last night’s pajamas. WARNING: Dependasauruses can be dangerous. They defend themselves with their prickly leg hairs, bad breath and cutting insults. Do not approach a dependasaurus when he or she is eating raw cookie dough. Results could be fatal.

You know the drill. Sponsors leave, we stop caring — about everything. Personal appearance, hygiene, getting dressed — and yes, many of us admittedly gain a little weight. Or, if you are into eating a variety of raw cookie and brownie dough like I do, a lot of weight. Put that package all together and you have yourself a purebred dependasaurus."

The article goes on to describe how to "beat the dependasaurus." {You can find the article-HERE}

So there you have it folks.... I am officially a DEPENDASAURUS!!!

{secrets}

2011-01-28T10:12:00.004-06:00

I have a few secrets that I can't wait to tell you guys about!! {No, I'm not pregnant!!} But I'll give you some hints in the form of pictures!!!

{I have NO idea how my pics ended up in this layout!} I have

revealed my plans to a few of you...SHH!

So STAY TUNED!!!! {And PS... I am going to an antique fair in Destin tomorrow with some friends and can't wait to share my treasures with you that I just KNOW I will find!!}

{agoodstart}

2011-01-27T08:47:00.003-06:00

There are a few things I make sure to do every morning {or try to!}, and it helps get the day off to a great start. These are just a few simple things and it can really change your outlook on the day.

First things first.....make your bed! I sound like my mother {love u mom!} but it really does make such a difference every time you walk into the room and see the bed clean and crisp and looking pretty!

#2 Open up the curtains and blinds!!! Let the sun shine in. Look at the snow on the ground. Admire the rain. Whatever weather God has blessed you with on any given day, take it in!! Natural light is so much better than flourescent!

#3 Tidy up your kitchen, wipe down the counters, load/unload your dishwasher. I can only imagine how necessary this would be for mommies out there! Most of the time it's just me and the mister around here and we accumulate enough dishes to float a battleship! If you start out the day with a clean kitchen....things wont get piled to the ceiling and you won't feel bogged down with a gigantic task! Challenge: do this at night before you go to bed!!!

#4 Brew up some delicious coffee, sit down and take some time to yourself. Whether it be to read a book, devotional, your favorite blogs, or sit down to watch Good Morning America and Rachel Ray....everything is better with a warm mug of coffee in your hand :) May I recommend hazelnut creamer???

Try these simple things out and see if they don't change the pace of your morning and your outlook on the day. I can almost guarantee they will!

{messy}

2011-01-26T14:01:00.002-06:00

If you don't like complaining, ranting, or listening to people get things off their chest...then you better stop reading cause this post is a MESS! Much like my closet now is. Who would've thought the hardest thing that I would do today would be to get dressed?? Going to the doctor. It's a simple task right? Apparently not for this girl.

I havent been doing much lately. I dont have a job. I pretty much go work out and do things around the house. I'm not complaining. I get to do things I want...like paint, and craft, and blog. I am lucky. But along with this "freedom" comes the fact that I stay in my pajamas or work out clothes all day. I'm a mess. I shower. Duh. Then I put my comfy clothes back on. This coming from the girl who's favorite outfit 2 months ago was Steve Madden boots, tights, and a dress. Hmmm. Now I am satisfied being in a hoodie and Nike workout pants. What?! So I have a Doctors appt this afternoon. Actually I should be leaving for it now. But I'm busy ranting. I think to myself...ya know...I'm actually gonna "get dressed" for this. And it resulted in something resembling the above picture. 7. I think that's the number of outfits I tried on. Either they were just ridiculous, or uncomfortable, or too tight, or too baggy.....ARG. So what am I wearing to the doctor? You got it....a hoodie. And flip flops. But hey! Guess what. I've got jeans on!!!

{adjustments}

2011-01-25T09:54:00.005-06:00

It's Tuesday! You know what that means!! Yup, Dori here. This week has been tough for me, but I am doing what I can to make adjustments. Daddy had to go away for work for a bit again. I think I sat at the door waiting for him to come back in for an eternity.

I was really sad and just wanted to cuddle up on mom's lap. {but then again, I always like to do that!}

BUT THEN.....mom took me over to the Haley's house and I got to play with Clara! {Remember...we have matching collar tags?} We like to lounge around their house....sit on their screened in porch, look at their amazing view of the water, and chew on sticks.

I guess this is what big dogs do!!! Chewing on sticks and branches is a new thing for me, but I think I like it!

After the sun goes down, it gets cold on the porch, so we come inside and cuddle up on Clara's blanket. {Sorry I look so unhappy in this picture...I promise I'm enjoying myself!}

Sometimes, Clara and I have trouble getting along cause I'm a little too hyper for her...so I just jump up on the couch and make myself comfy next to Angela.

I'm so glad my mom and I have good friends to hang out with while daddy is gone! We are the luckiest!!

{PS....Im STILL having trouble with licking my paws all the time. I have to go to the vet soon...I hope they figure out what's wrong because it's driving me {and everyone else} crazzzzzzzzzy!

{Another linky....link up with Casey and post about your favorites!!}

{makemesmile}

2011-01-24T09:06:00.005-06:00

Life*Made*Lovely. Here are a few things that make me smile on a regular basis.

{Christmas Cookie Yankee Candle...not JUST for Christmas time!}

{A few books from my childhood, Domino book of decorating, and an "R"}

{Little Birdie}

{mason jars & lanterns}

{a precious puppy snuggled up by the fire}

{a strapping lad in uniform...hehehe!!}

Click on the button below to link up to {life made lovely} by Blessed Little Nest to see what makes other people smile :) Happy Monday!!

{wylie}

2011-01-21T12:45:00.001-06:00

Wylie burpcloth.

Still in the learning phase so it has lots of "character!"

Purchases can be made at my Etsy shop!

{clara}

2011-01-21T10:34:00.000-06:00

Clara

{willa}

2011-01-21T10:26:00.002-06:00

First onesie complete!! It's not perfect {I'm new at this!!!}, but it is unique and has character! I have named this one Willa, after none other than my BFF Elizabeth's baby girl!

Here is a close up of the heart applique.

This will be added to my Etsy Shop, 3LittleBirdz, and will be available for purchase or may be customized.

{pre*view}

2011-01-21T08:29:00.004-06:00

A pre*view of what's to come. These are not finished yet, but I just think they're already SO SO cute and couldn't refrain from showing.

I will be doing a zig*zag stitch around the edge of the hearts. I'm hoping to get these up in my new Etsy shop...and plan on having some more made and ready to sell in time for February and Valentine's Day. I have many many ideas swirling around in my head....and would love to make something for you. But tell me...what is it that you want?!?

{I will be adding this post to my CRAFT BLOG.....please click the link and follow....it's a brand new blog and I need to get some readers!!!}

{vintage*80s}

2011-01-20T07:58:00.002-06:00

Yesterday, I woke up planning on working on Heart Onesies all day in order to sell before Valentines Day. Josiah had other plans though. We decided it would be best to empty out our storage closet which is FULL TO THE BRIM of my old teaching stuff, and go through it to sell. WHAT A TASK! I'm pretty much going to sell everything....so if you are in the market for anything K-2 related....games, manipulatives, calendar, bulletin board....please let me hook you up. Also, if you have any good ideas on how I could sell this stuff...let me know too. Some options now are...Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, starting a new blog solely dedicated to listing items.....I'm open for suggestions/input. {A garage sale would be hard since we live on base.} That being said...I came across some things that I will not be giving away.

An ABC puzzle from circa 1983 {looks kinda like this one...only much more "vintage." Can you call the 80's vintage?}

When I found it, I thought it would look super cute in a kids room someday. Then I started thinking about other things that would be cute....like a vintage top:

Vintage alphabet block:

Vintage children's books { I have a TON of these!}

What's your favorite vintage child's item?

{tag*works}

2011-01-18T08:57:00.003-06:00

1st official Doggy Dayz by Dori entry:

"Friends,

Last night, my mom came home from a day full of errands with a few treats for me!!! I was so excited when she walked in the door. She got me something that I've been wanting for such a long time....like since they first got me. She got me a tag for my collar. It has my name on it and everything. Not only that, but she took pictures of the whole process.

I got a really cute one with a big paw on the front!

After the machine lasered on my info:

The tag*works machine was even cute!

The back of the finished product {the other one is Clara Belle's, the Haley's dog}:

I love my new present!! I bet your puppy would love one too! You can find them at Petsmart!

P.S. Guess whose birthday is coming up??? That's right....I turn 1 verrrrrrry soon!!! Stay tuned for next weeks post!

Snorts & Licks,

Dori"

{casey*wiegand}

2011-01-17T10:34:00.005-06:00

Meet my friend Casey. Casey & I were Pi Phis together at Baylor and she is an AMAZING girl! She's the sweetest to everyone she meets...and she's incredibly talented. Not only is she an awesome flag fball player {shout*out Pi Phi B team flag fball}.....more importantly she is creative beyond belief and a blessed artist. The awesome thing about Case is that she truly uses her gifts to glorify God.

And it's just the cutest thing to see her post on her blog about how her son, Aiden, is following in her footsteps.

All this being said, Casey is doing a giveaway where she will paint a custom piece for the winner. The rules to enter are simple. PLEASE check out her blog. You will not only be blessed by her creativeness, but also her love for her family, her God, and the people around her. {Also, she finds the cutest Etsy shops that she shares so you can get yourself some goodies!}

{road*trip}

2011-01-16T11:47:00.003-06:00

Yesterday, we decided to drive with our friends The Haleys over to Hurlbert Field so the boys could get one more set of uniforms before they go to more training in Alabama. Hurlbert Field is near Ft. Walton Beach and Destin. It is only about an hour drive from where we are. The Haleys have some friends that live there, so we ate lunch with them at a bbq joint along the way. Here I found a few of my favorite things....

Mason jars, crushed ice, and DP:

Angela got to experience her first Monster Import...which later led on to several funny jokes:

{I dont think she was a fan, but me and Jo LOVE LOVE them!}

The trip to get uniforms ended up being unsuccessful because the military clothing store had closed early for MLK day. What??? That's not til Monday? Weird. We decided to stop and watch the sunset on the beach before we headed back to Pensacola. We went to a cute place called Juana's right on the water. Definitely a place we need to go back to in the summer time. It's a pagoda {hut type thing..I had to ask!} on the beach with sand volleyball courts and everything you could imagine!

The Haleys {they're Aggies from Texas}

Me and the mister:

I saw this sign across the restaurant and could only read the bold print. I asked Angela to take a pic for me and she walked over there barefoot. Kinda funny because apparently the sign was saying to keep your shoes on!

Beautiful sunset on the water:

We had a great time even though we didnt get what we needed. Now we just have to go back...which ya know...is no big deal since the boys are on casual status {see post below!}. Also, we saw a TON of flea markets and little antique stores along with way which Ang and I are definitely going to hit up once the boys leave. It's so fun living in such a fun, beautiful place! We are so lucky!

{casual*status}

2011-01-14T12:39:00.003-06:00

Casual status as a new Lt. waiting for a class date for CSO school includes a little bit of this:

And this....

Yum! {Dor passed out as always!}

And definitely some of this....

Diet pepsi. Pizza. Dog naps. Netflix. Life is rough in Pensacola these days :)

{Doggy*Dayz}

2011-01-14T09:39:00.004-06:00

I am hereby announcing Tuesdays will be Doggy*Dayz by Dori. She will be guest posting on Rawlings*Report from here on out every Tuesday.

She is very excited to share her adventures and thoughts with all of you faithful readers! Be sure to check back every Tuesday to see what the Dor*Monster has been up to!!

{organized*pantry}

2011-01-13T12:30:00.004-06:00

It took a whole 2 months of being in our new house for our TINY pantry to become a disaster area! Pretty much every day, Josiah had to ask me where he could find something. TIME TO PURGE AND CLEAN OUT! Behold our new, more organized, and more accessible pantry:

Recipes, breakfast items, and baking materials:

Snack items & chips:

Canned goods {in the back} and grains:

Spices & grilling items:

Paper goods:

How I did it:

1. Pull all of the items out of the pantry. You will never know what all you have unless you do this. You will probably discover you have multiples of the same item and many expired goods {gasp!}

2. Group like items.

3. Contain what you can. Having things in bins and baskets helps give a neat and clean look and you always know where to go to when you are looking for something. I have my dry baking goods like sugar, powdered sugar, brown sugar, and flour in OXO pop top containers. Also, I put cereal and spaghetti noodles in these. I LOVE THEM! I used a giant clear bin for all the canned goods. I would suggest using see*through containers. Even though this one is see*through, I took a sharpie and wrote the item and expiration date on the top of the can so I can see from the top what I'm looking at when I pull the bin out of the cabinet. This is the first time I've put paper goods in a basket together. I think this is going to help alot!! I got like 5 colanders for our wedding and I always use the same one, so I decided to use the metal one for snacky items like granola bars, fruit snacks....stuff like that.

4.Put those containers away. I suggest putting things you use the most at eye level so it's easily accessible and stuff you don't use often higher up. {HA! After saying that I just realized that my very top shelf is all my recipes....hmmm. Let's just say they're up there because that shelf is taller, not because I don't use them!}

5. LABEL! This will be a lifesaver for you {or your husband!} I promise! I have my individual bins labeled and then I stuck a label on the shelf. For example: I stuck "canned goods" directly on the bin holding the canned goods. On that shelf, I put "canned goods & grains" as a brief description of everything that's on that shelf.

6. VOILA! You now have a pantry that won't make you cry every time you open the door!!

{leg*warmers}

2011-01-13T10:16:00.005-06:00

After my jeans mishap yesterday, I decided to bite the bullet and try something different. Baby leg*warmers! I found an easy tutorial online and decided to give it a whirl. {I also find it kinda ironic the the majority of the sewing projects out there seem to be for babies....that's fine with me! They're the cutest!}

First step: Take an old sock and cut it into 4 pieces as show below. You will have a leg piece, a heel, foot piece, and toe. {You can set aside the toe and heel because you will not be using them.}

Step 2: Fold the foot piece in half:

Step 3: Slide the folded foot piece onto the end of the unfinished leg piece {the jagged end where you cut before}

Step 4: Pin in place. I'm sure this part is really important but since this was one of my first attempts at sewing, I had a hard time sewing with the pins in, so I ended up taking them out. Whoops.

Step 5: I don't think I took a picture of this. Sew around the inside of the cuff {foot piece}. After you sew all the way around, unfold the cuff and you will see your new pretty seam. { The top part of the pic below. It's kinda hard to see the seam because I chose stripes}

The finished product.

This was pretty easy for me...so if you have ANY experience sewing whatsoever, it will be a breeze for you. Sorry I forgot that one picture....I hate when tutorials are clear as mud! Now, I just gotta find a babe to send these to!!

{hem*fail}

2011-01-12T10:33:00.002-06:00

After many days devouring countless blogs and tutorials...I decided it was finally time to take a stab at sewing. I haven't made it to the store yet to buy fabric, etc {waiting for pay*day yo!} so I have been looking for something around the house to do. Ah! My skinny jeans need hemmed. So I found a tutorial online that seemed easy enough and busted out the pins and needles.

Jeans all pinned and ready to go:

Under the presser foot ready for action!

FAIL!

A bent needle. Oh well. I needed to learn how to replace the needle anyways. And now after thinking about it....maybe hemming a pair of jeans isn't the best idea for a first project!

{Dor*here}

2011-01-12T07:52:00.005-06:00

You asked for it...so you got it!!! My debut on this blog appeared to be a success so I am back for some more {ya know...cause my mom is SOOOO busy all the time and doesn't have time to blog!}. Anyways....I was reading my mom's friend Katie Fulmer's blog, and she was posting about some bad habits. I feel like I need to share a really bad habit that I have.

I know what you're thinking after seeing that picture, "How can that precious puppy have any bad habits?" Well, you are correct. I am a VERY good dog. I don't rip things up, destroy my mom's favorite belongings, go potty where I shouldn't....I am pretty much the best. BUT I do have a habit that needs to stop! I LICK MY PAWS. LIKE ALL THE TIME. AS IN, I WON'T STOP. My mom was concerned about it because she had heard this meant I might have allergies. Dad said she was being to overprotective and that dogs just lick. But you see, it got to the point where I was making my paws SO red and they HURT. Mom would try to look at them...and I'd yank my paw away in pain. {How mean of her!} She took me to the vet at our old home in Abilene, and he tested me for allergies. NOPE. NONE. He also said puppies my age usually don't have allergies. So now....I still lick and I lick and I lick. And I can't stop. {Kinda like some of you humans who bite your nails!} Do you know what I can do to help quit my bad habit? Do your puppies have this problem?? Help me please. I really like my pretty white fur alot more than the reddish color it gets when I lick!!!

{twysted*yarn}

2011-01-10T10:56:00.003-06:00

I am obsessed with this Etsy shop that my friend Michelle shared with me. I want to buy everything!!! Check out Twysted Yarn, you won't be let down!

They can also be found on facebook! And she does lots of giveaways!!

{guest*post}

2011-01-10T08:18:00.002-06:00

Dori here. I stole my mom's computer and wanted to share a few things. First off, I'm loving life in Florida. I love going up and down our stairs all day long. Mom&Dad took me to the beach last Sunday, and I absolutely loved it! I plan on going many many times this summer. But most days, you can find me doing this:

That's right! I may or may not be the world's sleepiest dog!! There is nothing better than snuggling up in between mom&dad {or on mom's new quilt from Anthro} and catching some z's!

I plan on trying to sneak some more posts on the blog in the future, so leave me some love if you want to hear more from me!!

{floral*luv}

2011-01-08T11:09:00.002-06:00

I'm loving all things floral these days. Here are some decorative accents around our home that make me smile!

New floral curtains from World Market:

Floral decorative pillow from Pottery Barn:

Floral rug from Target {we also have this in a much larger size in our living room!}

{sun*shine}

2011-01-07T17:38:00.000-06:00

Let the sun shine....

{sometimebetween}

2011-01-05T09:43:00.002-06:00

It's a big day in the Rawlings household! We are getting cable! That's right ladies and gents! We have gone the first 2+ years of our marriage with no cable, only internet. Honestly, it hasn't been that bad seeing that 1. i dont watch much tv anyways and 2. we have a computer hooked up to the tv so we just watch netflix and movies all the time. We have decided though that it's time to bite the bullet and get some tv up in this place! Which brings me to my next point: What's with the whole "We will be there sometime between 8&12" bit???? I mean really??? As soon as I assume you won't be here at 8 and sleep in, you ring the doorbell at 7:50. When I'm up and ready for you at 8, you dont come til 11:53.

So dear Mediacom, I know our relationship has just begun, but please get here sooner rather than later! I've got some errands to run!! Thanks!

{oh*brother}

2011-01-04T08:32:00.003-06:00

For Christmas, I got a Wii. It was short-lived. It was phenomenal gift and one that I would have loved to use. But after some deliberation with Jo, I decided to return it and get something I've been wanting for a long time. A sewing machine:

Yes, you read that right. I took back a Wii and got a sewing machine. I've been wanting to learn how to use one of these things for a while now and I have a small desire in my heart to start an etsy shop and sell things like onesies and pillow covers...and who knows! The skies the limit. I figured it was a much more practical choice and it would end up potentially saving me money. I have what I like to consider decorating a.d.d. as in .... I am constantly wanting to change the look of my house. This can get VERY expensive. Now, if I want to change out the pillows on my couch, I can simply make a new cover instead of buying a whole new pillow! See? I received the box with my new beauty on Dec. 30th. It sat on the floor in my living room until last night. I was scared of it. I still am to be honest. I've been watching some You*tube vids and finally threaded the boobin etc last night and made a few stitches on one of Josiah's old shirts. I plan to dabble some more today. This is a WHOLE new world for me!!! I didn't even know what a BOBBIN was! Should I be embarrassed? Yes, probably. But I spent my childhood days out playing soccer, not inside becoming a mini seamstress {which maybe I should have!} Do you have any sewing tips, secrets, or ideas for me? What helped you when you were learning? What's your favorite thing to make?????

{allthingsnew}

2011-01-02T21:44:00.002-06:00

I know this is random timing, but I stumbled upon this video on another blog and found it touching. He makes all things new. There can be good that comes from bad. Don't give up. Get up and keep moving!

{beach}

2011-01-02T21:06:00.001-06:00

We went to the beach on base for the first time today. Dori was in love. And I was in love with watching these two play.

{happy*2011}

2011-01-01T13:59:00.004-06:00

Wishing you and yours a Happy New Year!!

{christmas}

2010-12-31T16:50:00.003-06:00

We went to the Navy Exchange today to return a faulty tv we got and what did I see when we walked through the doors???

My favorite yankee candle 50 % off! Holy Moly! You betcha I bought it without thinking twice! You CAN NOT go wrong with a yankee candle. This scent in particular brings back memories of my childhood in the nursery at church. Weird huh? It's the little things in life people!!!

{that'sLTto*you}

2010-12-28T11:18:00.004-06:00

Have you heard? My boy graduated from officer school. His title is now officially 2nd Lt. Josiah Rawlings. I could not be more proud. But he is humble and does not like me to brag, so I will just leave you with some pictures.

Some may liken him to Thomas Jefferson:

My absolute favorite picture:

Another fav:

All smiles after the parade:

Ready for action:

Josiah's parents pinning on his bars:

We are a little sleepy here:

Taken of my family before J and I went to Dining Out {Gillespie Cmas Card '10}:

Us with J's parents:

{All these pics are pretty much in reverse order. The Dining Out dinner was before the commissioning, pinning, and parade.}

And thus begins a new journey.

{the*1799}

2010-12-19T12:20:00.006-06:00

What you've all been waiting for! Now that Josiah is home and has seen the house, I feel the need to publicly broadcast our new living environment! We love this house and feel very blessed to have gotten such a nice place in a convenient location. There are alot of pictures....I apologize. Hope you enjoy!

Master bath:

Hallway in Master "suite" {Our room is ginormous! It has 3 closets!!!}

Master bedroom:

Guest bath:

Guest bedroom:

Living room:

Dining room:

Chalkboard hung in the kitchen:

Kitchen: {Dori decided she needed to be in this pic!}

A few things have been added and changed since I took these pics. I've decorated the downstairs half bath and we got some new rugs and curtains for the living room. I will post those pics soon. Do you love it as much as we do?!?

{puppy*luv}

2010-12-13T10:17:00.005-06:00

First things first, GOOD MORNING! Is there anything cuter than a sleeping puppy? Ok...maybe a sleeping baby!

We are off to California next week for Christmas and hopefully little Dori gets to go with us!! We can not wait to introduce her to Josiah's family!!! You can't have Christmas without your pup!

Most importantly, we want Dor to meet this little girl!

Meet Charlie! Charlie belongs to Brad and Allison, Josiah's brother and sister. She is from the same breeder as Dori, but not the same litter. They will be quite a pair!

Now all we gotta do is get Dor on a little diet so she can meet airline regulations!!

{holiday*home}

2010-12-13T08:38:00.002-06:00

I wish this was my home for the holidays. {Centsational Girl} Oh my goodness. I am obsessed with every little thing in these pictures. The simple holiday decor, the white everywhere, the wreaths, the green & blue ornaments....I could go on and on. But I won't. Just look for yourself. You wont be disappointed!

{word*less}

2010-12-12T18:21:00.000-06:00

{little*dor}

2010-12-10T08:44:00.005-06:00

My little princess...cuddlebug....DorMonster....Dor Dor Binks....Sugarberry. Call her what you want because she answers to anything. I don't know how I would get through these months without Josiah if I didnt have Dori. She is the biggest sweetheart and wants to be held and loved on 99.9% of the time. She truly is the perfect dog for me!!! Without further audeui, a few pics for your viewing pleasure!

Her favorite spot in the new house...parked right by the back door where she can see all the kids playing on the playground in the courtyard:

Wishing you an "elf sized" Christmas:

"Pick me up please!"

How can one deny this face???

Whoa! This is why we often call her Monster!

Little Love!

Oh how she makes me smile :) Ear to ear!!! Speaking of ears, did you see those things?!?

{wish*list}

2010-12-09T10:41:00.002-06:00

I knOw I've been a bad girl yet again this year, but I'm hoping that maybe Santa will bring me something below instead of coal {that's what I got last year :( }

White North Face fleece:

{yes, I know I just moved to Florida...but I'll tell you one thing...there was frost on the grass when I woke up this morning!!! And the lows are in the 20s! I'm beginning to think I should say I live in Southern Alabama...not Florida}

These beauties! I love me some gray converse! Size 7 please!!! I wear the crud out of my black ones :)

That's all! Short&Sweet!!

{wcr*2}

2010-12-09T09:59:00.005-06:00

You might be asking what WCR stands for. Well let me tell you. Willa Christina Rock. She graced us with her presence on Dec. 6th. Liz had some complications pre*baby and was on bedrest for about a month, but Willa came with absolutely no problems at all and is absolutely perfect. I was torn apart the morning of the 6th that I couldn't be there for my best friend at this special time in her life. Ah the joys of being a military wife :) BUT don't you worry! I sent in some reinforcements {see below!}

Here she is! Tiny little baby!!

She is the size of a sock monkey!

Could not be more sweet!

Family of 3!!!!

Ah yes!!! Since I couldn't be there, I sent my dad on over to the hospital. Of course he was MORE than willing. If you should know one thing about my dad, he LOVE LOVE LOVES babies. As in, you might not want to let him hold yours, cause he might not give him/her back! He will make the best grandfather some day!!!! So here's my dad representin' for me!!!

Awwww!!!! I can't wait to have a baby so I can see him smile like this!!!

I'm in love and I haven't even met her. I'm sure you are too!!!

{wcr}

2010-12-09T09:29:00.007-06:00

About a month ago {yes, I know...this is a little late!} I had the honor of helping host a baby shower for one of my best friends Elizabeth. It was so much fun to celebrate Liz, Kevin, and little Willa. Here are some pics from the shower.

Paper goods & the framed invitation:

"Willa" banner & paper lanterns:

Candy bar:

Amazing cake:

Invitation:

Closer shot of the mantle:

The hostesses with the guests of honor:

Friends forever:

Liz was on bedrest at this point and precious baby Willa was actually born a few days ago! But that is a whole 'nother post in and of itself!!

{little*things}

2010-12-08T09:57:00.003-06:00

It's the littlest things in life that make you smile. As I mentioned a few posts ago, I've been having a hard time getting in the spirit of the season because of all the changes we've had in the past few months! Well, I took the advice of a few people and decided to go ahead and add a little Christmas cheer to our new house! And by little, I mean very little. But that, with a few other things has done the trick for me!! Here's a peek at the few holiday decorations I've put out.

Entry way bench:

Love the simplicity of silver and gold:

Lantern and mason jars normally used...updated for the holidays with a sparkly white candle, and some epsom salt to emulate snow!

Vintage shiny brite ornaments:

Snow in candle holders....and of course, a bird!

Gold sparkly candle in another lantern:

These things, along with Snowberry in my scentsy pot, and pandora christmas station......I am now convinced that it's the holiday season!!!

Dont know what scentsy is? Shame shame! Check it out by clicking the link below!

http://www.jmorrow.scentsy.us

{wood*floors}

2010-12-07T12:33:00.002-06:00

Hi all! I'm sure you've all been anxiously awaiting my return to the blog world!!! Things have settled down here in Florida since the move and now I have some time to relax and enjoy!!! I know many of you want to see pictures of our new house and I can't wait to show you! However, you will have to wait a little over a week, because I want the mister to see it in person first before it's all over the 'net! I absolutely love our house. We are truly lucky and blessed to have been able to get such a nice house on base. I do have one question for you though!!! How do you keep wood floors clean?!?!?!

The downstairs is entirely wood flooring and with a white dog, you can see ANYTHING and EVERYTHING! I feel as though I am sweeping and mopping every day. Is this just how it will be or is there some secret?!?! Please help a sister out!!

{christmas*love}

2010-11-30T09:32:00.003-06:00

It is such a strange time in life right now. I am all "settled in" in our new house in Florida and putting some finishing touches on the house. We are in a time of transition and it's somewhat sad because I have not been able to decorate for any holiday! Halloween....my stuff was on a moving truck {not that I really would've decorated for Halloween, but I would've definitely had some fall stuff out!} Thanksgiving.....all my stuff had JUST been unpacked or was still in boxes, and I drove up to Alabama to see Josiah. Now the great debate: DO I DECORATE FOR CHRISTMAS?? I packed my Christmas decor away in a storage closet thinking I wasn't going to do it because I'm still just getting settled AND we are going to California for Christmas. But looking at pictures like this:

makes me want to decorate so so bad. But the kicker??? We don't have a fireplace or mantle! So where would I hang my stockings and what would I put greenery on? Oh the pain!

{movin'}

2010-11-01T11:22:00.003-05:00

I guess this whole "moving" thing has officially begun.

Our house is now in shambles and there are boxes all over the place. The movers are here packin 'em up and me??? I'm sitting here on my laptop! I guess this is all for real!

{autumn}

2010-09-29T08:25:00.001-05:00

If only I could recreate this scene with my family and friends : NIE welcomes autumn!

{boo}

2010-09-23T08:02:00.002-05:00

No not the boo like halloween, the boo like my BOY! I heard from him last night! This was the 2nd time I've heard from him since OTS started. He sounded a little bit better this time than last.When I talked to him Saturday, he barely had a voice. He still doesn't have much of a voice now, but it's better than it was. Basically, what I got from our convo is that he's making it. Which is a good thing I suppose. It's no fun and they have no time to take care of any of the things that need to get done. But he knows it's all a game and the yelling really means nothing....and that the reward in the end will be much greater! He's such a stronger person than I'll ever be! Heck, I cry if my dentist storms out of the room and doesn't even say a word. How could I handle someone standing in my face yelling at me?!? IF the count is correct, 84 days left and Jo said that after training day 15, things lighten up a bit. {They just had training day 7}. If you'd like to send him a note of encouragement, send me a message and I'll get you his mailing address!! Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers!!!

{luv}

2010-09-21T13:28:00.001-05:00

{thisjustin}

2010-09-19T17:47:00.003-05:00

HUGE praise!!! Our house in Abilene has been rented out!!! This is one major thing that I can now happily mark off of my to*do list!! Our property manager is A-mazing. He showed the house this morning for the very first time....and the couple decided they wanted it! Such a relief. On top of that....they want to move in on Dec. 1 which is perfect because I do not have to move out early and live in an extended stay hotel for a few weeks like I thought I would have to. What a ginormous weight lifted off our shoulders! The next BIG thing we need to happen, of course if it's God's plan, is for something to open up on base in Pensacola! We shall see!!!

{fridayfairfun}

2010-09-18T11:17:00.005-05:00

Last night, I went with some friends to the West Texas Fair & Rodeo. I'm not gonna lie, there's a small piece of me that enjoys this totally cliche Texas event. My favorite part of the rodeo was when the little kids hold on to the backs of sheep and see how long they can stay on. Nothing cuter than little four year old boys in chaps! {well....maybe there are cuter things...but they were pretty darn cute!}

A shot of the horse arena:

Ferris wheel. To me....there's nothing creepier than a rickety old carnival ride that is in good need of WD-40. No I did NOT ride the rides!!

Ring of Fire. Most definitely would have lost my dinner on this ride if I had joined in on the action. I liked my position as photog though.

1 ticket for $1.....ultimate rip-off! That's 2 route*44 waters with extra ice from sonic thank you!!

This one's for Josiah. If he was here, he would have most definitely devoured one of these things....ya know...since he's so POLISH and everything!

So cute. Little Mexico.

At the end of the night....we bought a large funnel cake and split it between 6 people. You absolutely can not go to the fair and NOT get a funnel cake.

Disclaimer* One may ask, "Amber, are you scared of rides?" Or think "Amber's no fun, she didn't ride." Let me explain myself. Take me to the State Fair of Texas.....and yes I'll ride. Take me to DisneyWorld and yes, I'll ride, Six Flags....yup!!! Those are PERMANENT fixtures!!! With people operating the rides that are actually functional!! The rides at the Abilene fair....are the carnie rides....the traveling fair type....that can be packed up and put on the back of a truck. Uh uh. Not for me. Not to mention....the people working them....well that's a whole different post in and of itself!!!!

{come*quickly}

2010-09-17T09:48:00.001-05:00

Is anyone else as ready for fall as I am??

Pretty colors. Pumpkins. Candy corn. An extra hour of sleep. Cool weather. Winter clothes.

Sounds glorious!!!

{consign}

2010-09-13T10:28:00.002-05:00

It's that time again! My Sister's House has decided to put on a fall sale. They were so successful last spring, that they decided to make the fall sale 2 weekends long, and also added on some weekdays!

I have been busy trying to prep some furniture and other "items" to consign, and will soon be going through my fall/winter clothes to see if there is anything I want to sell. This is perfect timing seeing as I need to be purging things for our upcoming move! If you are in Abilene, you do not want to miss this opportunity to get some awesome stuff!!! Check out their website for more info and dates!!

My Sister's House Sale {~click~}

{new*do}

2010-09-10T07:48:00.002-05:00

Tired of the same old boring hair style? Looking for something to spice up your "do"? Do yourself a favor and Head over to The Trendy Owl and get yourself one of these pretties!!

SO super cute and only $5 each!!

I just ordered mine {had to limit myself to 2 so I can make sure that I can rock them appropriately}. I can't wait for them to get here!!!

{onmymind}

2010-09-09T07:51:00.001-05:00

Can you tell what's been on my mind lately?

{i dont like that one... i just like the blacked out birds on the twig....not how big it is nor where it is placed}

{color*luv}

2010-09-07T21:37:00.002-05:00

{unicorns}

2010-09-04T13:55:00.001-05:00

{loser}

2010-09-03T08:03:00.002-05:00

"I'm a loser baby......"

I've come to the sad realization that I am pretty sure noone reads my blog.