I'm giddy.

Because lookee what landed on my doorstep yesterday...

I have been saving up for this for what seems like months now. I saved up the old fashioned way--cash in an envelope. It was so much fun. 

So low and behold, I own a DSLR. Yippee skippee. 

Now just pardon me while I learn the ins and outs of this beast and don't judge my pictures too soon. *grin*

Oh, and for now, here's a few of my first shots straight out of the camera:

Can you see her TWO teeth!!?

Don't worry, she was supervised through the whole pen-chewing process.

Zoe is actually semi afraid of my new camera. 

inspiration

I've been rearranging a few things around the house and it's got me all giddy with decoration excitement. If you remember, I haven't joined pinterest; I just save pictures to an inspiration folder. HAHA. Just wanted to share a few of those with you all!! Enjoy!

How cozy does this patio look? I want to be there.

If I could ever get my hand on enough silk scarves, I'd love to make a curtain like this. 

Love the arrangement of pictures here.

*Gasp* Love everything about this kitchen. 

Love everything about this one as well. Found this on Sara's blog this morning. It's her mama cave. :)

love

Today as I was praying for my family, I found myself thinking about my love for my little girl. 

Before I had a kid, I heard a lot of people portray an instant love. You know those comments---"I fell in love when I saw those two pink lines." or "From the moment I saw your precious face..."

Well if I'm going to be honest with you, I never really had those moments. I mean, of course I loved my baby when she was in my belly and of course I loved her when I first met her. But it was never this overwhelming, I've fallen head over heels type of love.

And for some reason I thought there was something wrong with me. 

But as I reflect back over the last seven months, I can see that my love for my little girl has grown exponentially since I first saw her. My love for her has grown through the good times and the difficult times. 

It's the same with my husband. I have loved him for about ten years now, but my love for him today is the greatest that it has ever been. Through all of our trials--the fights, disagreements, you name it--we've grown together. 

I guess that's how love is. It's not those fluttery feelings you get from flirting and what not--that's an emotion. 

True Love is so far beyond that. I'm definitely still learning, but I'm finding that true love grows. Though many times it's wonderful, happy, and good, it grows through the bad, the difficult, the ugly. But the rewards are so worth it.

Friday Highs.v18

image found via weheartit.com

I don't know what it is about birds chirping, but it's a sound that is so pleasing to my ears.  I heard birds chirping yesterday morning and realized it has been quite some time since I last heard that beautiful sound. Maybe it's because I haven't been listening....

This little one giving me giant belly laughs yesterday. I'll tell ya, the things she finds funny!!!! She's such a goof!

Good time spent with a good friend. Can't beat that, right?

While antiquing with said friend, we found my dream kitchen table. I've been searching the internet for the last half hour looking for a picture worthy enough to show you what I mean, but I can't find one that comes close. Trust me though, it's awesome. Gives me goosies just thinking about it. :)

That's all for now. We have a busy day! Happy Weekend, friends!

a New Year

Molly girl checkin out the snow. 

Truth be told, I've been a little lost this new year. There are a lot of changes I'd like to make in my life, and I'm working towards those.

But bigger picture--I'm seeking. Big time seeking. Amidst all my "changes" this year, my greatest desire is to run hard after the Lord. I need Him in a big way. I'm clinging to these verses right now....

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all of your heart." 
Jeremiah 29:11-13 (emphasis mine)






So forgive me if I'm quiet for a bit. I'm taking some time at the start of this year to get my bearings straight. To make sure I'm moving forward in a way that is pleasing to God.




Just experienced one of those natural highs. Maybe I'll jot that down and share it with you tomorrow.....


Peace, my friends.

Christmas pictures

Ready for picture overload? Here's some scenes from our Christmas celebrations...

Molly cared more about the bows than anything.

Molly with her shaker eggs from Uncle Eric and Aunt Shelly.

Molly loved the doll I made her. It warmed my heart.

Listening to my brother read the Christmas story.

Loved watching these cousins interact.  Molly says, "It's ok, Marlee!!"

Love this picture!!

The dads and the dogs.

I have a niece!! Love you, Marlee!

Big girl Molly says, "Cousin Marlee, don't cry. Here's your paci!" Seven month old Molly says, "Ooh, I want that!"

Family pic. Can't forget Zoe. (See- Molly loves her doll!)

Christmas morning.

Love you, Grammie!!

I cannot get over how big she looks in this picture.

And this just makes me melt.

My beautiful Christmas baby.

Friday Highs.v17.part2

Because this happened.... 

*grin*