Est. 5.26.07

Valentine’s Day Charmer

2012-01-27T00:00:00.000-06:00

It is Day 3 of ‘14 Days of Love’ and I’m excited to share what I have been making! I originally went for doing ONE craft, but Hobby Lobby SUCKED me in and I walked away with a few more ideas. I figured I’d put all of them together for today’s feature party lead by Ashley at Cherished Bliss.

If you missed the first two days, you can see Desiree' @ The 36th Avenue for her Valentine Frame & Emily @ 52 Mantels for her sweet heart banner. Tomorrow you won’t want to miss Mandy @ Sugar Bee Crafts!

‘Ring Bling’
I happen to have some blank filigree rings left from a purchase on Etsy at Poppy Loves Paris and I saw some cute roses at Hobby Lobby so I simply glued a rose on and Voila!! A Valentine ring!! I also added a rhinestone for a little bling.

‘1st Love Centerpiece’
I had some red felt from an old project and went to.. you guessed it! Hobby Lobby for some cardboard stencils, white paint & a sponge brush! I basically just cute the letters out into squares, threw some candles I had from Christmas that worked out color wise and some Hershey Kisses and there’s a simple/SWEET centerpiece.

‘2nd Love Centerpiece’
I have no idea where this idea came from but I saw this cute grey tote and near by were some iron on letters. My mind started churning and I snatched them up along with some heart sequin iron on’s to match! I hit up the local grocery and ran across some beautiful roses and got some florist foam. Here we go!

Easy steps: Ironed on the letters and hearts. I used a trash bag to line the inside so that the florist foam wouldn’t ruin the tote or seep out (you’re suppose to soak the foam in a flower food water for a while). Then, I added my roses!
And finally……..
My original project I intended to do for this 14 Days of Love was to make a
‘Valentine Wreath’
My supplies include red and white pom-pom yarn, a Styrofoam wreath, some cute glitter letters and happened to have some Pick Your Plum tags to wrap it up!

You have to wrap this yarn very close together and tight. I’m not even kidding when I say that I pulled a muscle in my armpit trying to get this thing done. I used strands of the pom yarn and strung my Pick Your Plum tags on it using the red and silver glitter letters! I tied the yarn around the finished wreath to create the Happy Valentine’s Day Strands! I wish I could say I shaped and welded the wreath hanger myself, but its also from Hobby Lobby!

Thanks for stopping by! There is a huge give away when the 14 days are done, so stick around!

This event is sponsored by…

Valentine’s is under way..

2012-01-26T15:21:00.001-06:00

Hey ya’ll. No real blog post today really because I’m busy getting my Valentine craft post ready for tomorrow since I’m 3rd in line to share my crafty ideas with you. {nervous}.

Yesterday was day 1 with Desiree' @ The 36th Avenue Go check out her Valentine frame!

Emily over @ 52 Mantels is up next! Go check out her Sweetheart Banner!

There is a huge give away over at Cherished Bliss when this 14 Days is up! Follow along, won’t ya!?

The final PYP challenges have been shipped, so if you haven’t received yours, let me know. First link up begins next Wednesday, Feb 1st and run through Feb 29th! Can’t wait to see what everyone is up to!! If you didn’t sign up or get a surprise, you can still participate if you have purchased something from Pick Your Plum or if you want to get in on it now!!

So far, aside from my scarf obsession (thanks a lot Stacie), the personalized items are my FAVORITE!!! Click the picture below and go get in on the newsletter Love!!

LOST

2012-01-25T17:00:00.000-06:00

DAY 1 of 14 Days of Love

First up is: Desiree' @ The 36th Avenue Go check out her Valentine frame!

__________________________________________________

Now… back to me…

Technology sure has come along way in the past 10 years. I love it because I am an instant gratification type of a person, so digital photography has been AH.MAZ.ING for me. I just snap away because I can just download it onto my handy-dandy computer and save it, or delete it if I don’t like it.

Through my collection of pictures, our computer started to get bogged down and pretty soon there was no space left for anything, so Erik bought me my own external hard drive.

I had it organized in all kinds of fancy folders. Ryan has his own folder that goes from my pregnancy days to his birth and every single picture organized by the month or year he was at the time. I did this with Reese and Rayne also. This has made it easy for me to go and find the pictures I’m looking for and also to do comparisons between the kids when they were a certain age. This is just the cusp of what was on that hard drive.

Last night, I was copying pictures from my camera to organize and BAM!

UHhhh… blue screen of death? Please say it isn’t so!! I unplug my drive, plug it back in… all is well and then try to copy/paste to it again….. same blue screen appears! I begin to perspire a little.

Erik suggested plugging it back in and trying to copy the folders to our AT&T server that came with our U-verse package. I started to copy them and got some of the smaller folders copied over. Then, I started the bigger ones…. like our wedding and honeymoon.

Notice comes up saying corruption has occurred and files have been lost.

I just got word back from a Data Recovery place here near me and for a whoppin’ $850, they can retrieve my data. Quoting a friend, Impulsive Addict:
THE HELL YOU SAY!

So while I gather myself and get some second & third opinions… I’ll leave you with a few pictures I have taken with my phone with Instagram!

On another note (REMINDER), are you working on your PYP Challenge? Link up starts next week!! Here’s what I’m working with! Can’t wait to share it with you.

Talking Tuesday

2012-01-24T03:00:00.000-06:00

LOTS to TALK about, so first—I’m linking up with Impulsive Addict & Seriously Shawn for some Talk To Us Tuesday, bla bla bla (which is code for whatever I wanna say).

NEWS

TOMORROW: 14 Days of Love Begins!!

Say what?! Details HERE !! In summary, 14 bloggers (ahem, ME and 13 other awesome gals) are going to show you 14 days of ideas related to V-Day. We all need idea, RIGHT!?!? Then, you will link up with us to show your Valentine’s Creations.. and I’ve heard there’s an awesome prize associated, but you’ll have to check back to find out. Lots of sponsored gifts…. whoa!

ALSO!!!!!!!! Have you gotten your PYP Challenge? How is it coming? Any questions? I have only heard from maybe 3 of ya’ll…. {worried}….for those of you just stopping by….Ashley over at Cherished Bliss is teaming up with me and Pick Your Plum to host a very fun party!! Details HERE!! STARTS FEBRUARY 1ST!! Last shipment of items going out this week.

I know this is the common theme lately to get TAGGED and I’ve been tagged. {Not it!! Says the kid in me from the Not it!! games, remember those?}
Sweet Angel tagged me….Grab the rules if you want to carry this game on.
The Rules
1. You must post the rules. <—Voila! Done!
2. Post eleven fun facts about yourself on the blog post. <—very strange, considering just a few days ago, I did write facts about me… ELEVEN Of them.. I didn’t even know this was coming!! DONE!
3. Answer the questions the tagger (Angel) set for you in their post.

1. What scares you? Death is #1, bugs, heights, sometimes my own imagination!
2. How did you name your blog? I knew our family would be growing when I started my blog and Life is a Journey, Right? So, Erik and I got married 5.26.07 (hence the EST.) and we are on The Johanson Journey!
3. Your dream guy when you were a child? Was it realistic? It was not realistic since it was a dream guy and I am assuming we mean celebrity… 1st person that comes to mind is Kirk Cameron.
4. Favorite movie of all time? Every movie I love is my favorite.. I’m the same about music, but first thought is Top Gun, Pretty Woman, Sweet Home Alabama, Overboard…. there’s no way one movie could take the cake.
5. Favorite Thing About Blogging? Meeting new people, discussing life events and getting feedback that says I’m normal.
6. Are you a Cat or Dog person? I used to say both but in recent years, I’m all Dog.
7. You’re a Superhero what is your power? Pause life so I can get things done and still enjoy the world around me.
8. What is your nickname? Mommy, Pup, Babe, JJ, G-Nut, Janet, Sweet Cheeks.. hah… okay, not sweet cheeks but the rest are true.
9. What is your fondest childhood memory? I wish I could isolate an event but honestly, I had a great childhood…. I was very lucky, even through being locked out of the house at the ripe age of 5 and being forced to go play when I didn’t want to, or the summer I had to wake up every morning at 8am to listen/read along to books by tape to help me in the following school year… I had good friends and good family.
10. What song makes you smile just to hear it? Any Journey song!

4. Tag 11 people and link them on your post. Um—YOU’RE IT! Done!
5. Let them know you've tagged them! Hello… YOU’RE IT!! Done!

Phew, that was a lot of talking…..

Food Facts

2012-01-23T09:20:00.001-06:00

I remember specifically 2 incidents from my childhood where I was tricked to eating something that I would NEVER have wanted to eat.

First time was at a restaurant in Louisiana when we lived there and my Mom and I stepped away to use the restroom. My Dad took it upon himself to order an appetizer for us while we were away. When it came, it looked like fried chicken nuggets and that is exactly what he told me they were. I ate them up so fast. They were so good. I was informed after I licked the plate clean that I had just enjoyed my first plate of alligator. EW! I was tricked. Turns out it was not so bad but the idea of eating an alligator is not on my list of things to try.

Second time was one summer playing in the pool with a friend of mine and my Dad brought out some meat that he had been cooking on the grill and wanted us to try it. He said it was chicken.

** What is it with everything tasting like chicken!?***

I didn’t question the offer and since its chicken after all, why not! It was good. I wouldn’t say it was eat a whole plate good, but I would have probably had a little more if I were hungry enough. Turns out, this was another trick to get me to try Frog Legs. EW!!

I am a VERY picky eater. I am totally fine admitting that I could live on bread and Macaroni & Cheese and be okay without eating much else. I see something and it looks gross, so I assume it is. My Dad had recently told me about milk shakes and that they use algae to help soften the ice-cream to make it smooth. This level of detail is something I can live without. I am a tad timid to have a milk shake and if it is too creamy, I know the first thing I will think of is Algae.

So what about you? Are you like me? Are you effected by what you hear or what you see?
People still drink Coca Cola like water, even though they know it can take paint off your car. People also still eat bologna, even though it has the same quality to take paint off a car.

How does it make you feel when you see stories about McDonald’s chicken? (Click the picture to go see the story) This is not a photo of ice-cream.

And then there’s this warning label that California is now supposedly putting on their McDonald’s bags or perhaps just on the wall?? (California friends can confirm).

Does stuff like this deter you from eating there? I’ve survived this long eating chicken nuggets and hashbrowns from there, so while the news is a tad mind boggling and frankly gross/scary…. I still found myself in the drive through getting a happy meal for the kids and a lil’ something for myself.
What are your thoughts?

a light read

2012-01-20T12:10:00.001-06:00

I noticed the other day a friend or two had marked on Facebook that they liked this link and posted it if you wanted to go read it. I hesitated a little bit only because it was coming from the Huffington Post which can be a tad.. well, maybe not a tad.. VERY FAR LEFT (yeah I just got political on ya, but its brief, I promise). The title was ‘Don’t Carpe Diem” written by a blogger just like you or me. Friends were liking this, so it got me interested and I read it.

So, I leave you now with the same link to go read (when you have time of course) and hope you enjoy her writing and post as much as I did and I’m sure a lot of other mom’s out there can associate with.

The Link is HERE

What I loved was her brutal honesty and she had over 1900 comments which I’m sure had a lot to do with Huffington publishing it, but she talked in her next post which I felt hit the nail on the head for my letter to bloggers yesterday when she said:

‘We are not successful if we make it to Oprah or the Today show or start creating serious revenue or traffic or what HAVE YOU.

We are successful because chances are that tonight some tired and lonely mom will click on a friend’s link and get lost in our essays and our comments and our love for each other. And she will ignore her husband for hours and she will cry a little and laugh a lot and she will read on and on and on. And it may take her months to rally the courage to comment, but she will meet us here every day because she has finally found her people! She has finally found a group of women whose only motive is to love and laugh together and who are NOT FOR SALE. And this will help her believe and be peaceful and feel a little less suspicious and more comfortable and safe and brave on this Earth. And so she will be full of joy. DONE. REVOLUTION WON.’

I LOVE THIS GIRL!! She’s speakin’ my language!! I’m her newest follower at Momastery.

Have a great weekend!!

Ashley over at Cherished Bliss is teaming up with me and Pick Your Plum to host a very fun party!! Details HERE!! STARTS FEBRUARY 1ST!! Were you one who signed up to do the challenge?? Did you get your package yet? Some are still on the way but I’m curious your thoughts so far! Buzz me if you are hyperventilating into a bag or if you need any help at ALL!!!!

ALSO!!

This starts January 25th: details HERE!! In summary, 14 bloggers (ahem, ME and other awesome gals) are going to show you 14 days of ideas related to V-Day. Then, you will link up with us to show your Valentine’s Creations.. and I’ve heard there’s an awesome prize associated, but you’ll have to check back to find out.

Dear Blog Friends

2012-01-19T15:15:00.001-06:00

As a kid, I could NOT WAIT to grow up. I could NOT WAIT to be tall enough to look over the counter at the bank or even the grocery store. We all rush to become adults and then BAM! You are living every day with so many responsibilities that you wish you could go back to those days when you were too short to see over the dashboard in your Dad’s 78’ Rivera with the huge bench seat. Eating a box of Little Debbie's was never a concern about how it would effect your bathing suit in the summer and staying up late did not effect you in the least.
Some of my blogging pals who leave comments will often say they aren’t sure how I do it all and I am always surprised to hear that. I feel like there is so much I am not doing that I feel guilty. Oh, and remember yesterday when I told you about my ‘worrying about worry’… that’s just ME, so hopefully you will understand the following.
When I first started blogging, I literally threw pictures up, gave them some captions and called it a day. I didn’t realize there was a community of friends in various stages of life out there. I finally got the idea and the hang of it and I’m HOOKED!! Like, Addicted to Pick your Plum hooked!! <—sorry, I had to throw that in there! hah!
So, in the past year I spent a lot of my free time meeting YOU and trying to find ways to keep my blog more entertaining than just showing pictures and realized there is a LOT of responsibility to being a blogger. Some of ya’ll blog as a hobby, some use it as a business, some barely use it at all and I’m sure there are many others.

I know I’m not alone when I say that I feel guilty that I cannot make the time to come around to visit my blog friends, because after all, that’s what blogging is about for me: Sharing and bonding with those who I connect with.
If you read “Helpful Blogging Tips”, they all say that you MUST comment on other blogs if you want them to come and check yours out. Sitting there waiting for someone to come and look doesn’t usually happen on its own. This is very true. So, as a Blogger, I feel a responsibility to be the best I can be and that is where I feel that I’m failing.

My kids are happy and healthy, I have a great job now, a wonderful husband, good friends and I’m super thankful, but I also cherish and adore blogging and worry about my responsibilities to blogging being neglected and how it will effect me long term. I bought a book about how to improve your blog and I just don’t see how people in my predicament with a fulltime job, family and day to day responsibilities are able to give blogging the attention it requires to maintain relationships and build more.

Please tell me I’m not alone if you were able to read this whole post. Thanks for listening in any case…

Off to figure out how to maintain my responsibilities as a blog friend.
xoxo

Wednesday Facts

2012-01-18T03:00:00.000-06:00

Getting to know your blog friends is really what keeps the blog world so fun and honestly what I think brings so many friends together. I thought it would be fun to list a few facts about me that you may or may not know. What do we have in common? Anything surprise you? Tell me about you! Its okay to be random…. that’s how I like it!

1. I have green eyes, and up until recently I always told people they were gray because it sounded cooler. It even said Gray on my license (which turns out I have had a warrant out for my arrest for that 11 yr old ticket by the way since 2006. I’m a FUGITIVE! I’m paying the stupid thing, so its over
and done- punks)
2. I’m a Texas Tech University College Grad with a BA degree in English and minor in Sociology. I speak English fluently, so that worked out.

3. I am a member of Alpha Chi Omega Sorority, good times had by all.

4. Scary movies creep me out, in fact a preview on TV for a scary movie freaks me out. Stephen King might be talented but this stinkin’ clown still haunts me… “THEY ALL FLOAT” eeeeeeeeeeeeek!

5. I {heart} a variety of music types! Josh Groban’s voice can move me to tears and the fact that my son sings along to his songs makes me happy. Andre Bocelli’s ‘Time to Say Goodbye’ gave me goose bumps when I saw the Balagio water show dancing to the song, but I always lean on Journey!

6. I rarely eat meat, but am not a vegetarian. I think hamburgers are gross and Popcorn makes me sick! My Dad says I’m Un-American. I also dislike COKE and most all brown drinks (except coffee)!

7. I’ve recently discovered a new addiction to owning a pair of jeans from the Buckle and LOVE Miss Me Jeans. This is a surprising fact because up until about a year ago, I owned 1 pair of jeans and found them to be the last thing in my closet I would want to wear for comfort.

8. Chocolate makes me happy. I’m a picky chocolate fan. I am grossed out by the chocolate covered candies with surprises in the middle that are in those big boxes and I also dislike Cadbury eggs.
9. I LOVE SURPRISES. The good kind of course! Nothing is a bigger bubble buster than finding out about a surprise before it happens or dreaming up a COOL surprise and it doesn’t happen.
10. I am an admitted Worry Wart. I worry about being worried.
11. I am an Aquarius which is the water sign and I’m afraid of the water.

Eleven facts is a good start! Nice and Random, like me!

The past few days I’ve mentioned and will continue to mention the upcoming fun I’m taking part in and you are too, RIGHT!?!?! I figure the best way to succeed is to continue to remind you… it helps me remember at least.
Ashley over at Cherished Bliss is teaming up with me and Pick Your Plum to host a very fun party!! Details HERE!!

This starts January 25th: details HERE!! In summary, 14 bloggers (ahem, ME and other awesome gals) are going to show you 14 days of ideas related to V-Day. Then, you will link up with us to show your Valentine’s Creations.. and I’ve heard there’s an awesome prize associated, but you’ll have to check back to find out.

What we see…

2012-01-17T03:00:00.000-06:00

Gals out there who have a live in boyfriend or husband will hopefully be able to relate to what I’m about to share. If not, have no fear… this is just insight on what I think most women and men see.

Exhibit A:
What I see: A used, crinkled up napkin with no telling what on it that I deem trash.
What he sees: A perfectly good napkin that he WAS USING and just left sitting there for 17 hours with intentions to use it again.

Exhibit B.
What I see: Yet another USED item, except this one is even MORE obvious to me that it is trash and needs to be thrown away. ITS EMPTY!
What he sees: An empty bottle, but I “just finished it” and was going to throw it away…. tomorrow or later.

Exhibit C:
What I see: A disgusting collection of dog fur, dust and broken pieces of leaves that have turned into a tumble weed on our floors which needs to be picked up ASAP~
What he sees: He doesn’t see ANYTHING.

Exhibit D:
What I see: Someone, not naming names carried this wipe around and decided to leave it RIGHT HERE. Its trash.
What he sees: He doesn’t see ANYTHING.

Exhibit E:
What I see: a collection of clothing items that are already worn that need to be washed including a pair of jeans, socks and a shirt.
What he sees: A perfectly good outfit to wear tomorrow!

Exhibit F:
What I see: A bag of AWESOMENESS containing supplies for a craft I have up my sleeve. I got some feathers, fun paints, sponge brushes and {giddy} other fun things to use for making something!
What he sees: A bag of Trash.

There ya have it ladies. Welcome to my world.

Just a reminder:

Have you signed up for Pick Your Plum!? Check out today’s Deal!!!

An amazing link party is starting soon that I want you all to participate in! Ashley over at Cherished Bliss is teaming up with me and Pick Your Plum to host a very fun party!! Details HERE!!

Same gal pal above is leading the charge to get us ready for Valentine’s Day!! Notice my cute lil’ button addition over yonder!

This starts January 25th and I have a feeling Pinterest might blow up with some awesome new ideas!! Details HERE!!

HIGHLIGHTS

2012-01-16T02:00:00.001-06:00

Lets hit some highlights real quick!

First! Have you signed up for Pick Your Plum!? Check out today’s Deal!!!

I just entered to win on Designer Blogs Give Away!! Fingers crossed!! Check it out!!
I mention this AGAIN because there is an amazing link party is starting soon that I want you all to participate in {Please don’t make me beg}. Ashley over at Cherished Bliss is teaming up with me and Pick Your Plum to host a very fun party!! Details HERE!!

2nd, same gal pal above is leading the charge to get us ready for Valentine’s Day!! Notice my cute lil’ button addition over yonder!

This starts January 25th and I have a feeling Pinterest might blow up with some awesome new ideas!! Details HERE!!

Now, I realize I’ve been spending my blogging time talking about things other than my family and kids, so for those of you who look for those updates… here are a few! Also a big apology for being a slacker blog friend lately. I’m slowly getting into a NEW routine and its taking me a tad longer to organize my time. Still {heart}you all.
This lil’ love bug turned 4 months this weekend! Such a happy and smiley baby!! She is doing really well at daycare with her new friends and getting adjusted. She’s not a fan of tummy time but that might be my fault for not being that great with it at home. Our next Dr appointment for stats will be in February! Stay tuned. Loving Instagram by the way!

Reese took a trial class for Gymnastics! The coach said she did VERY good considering her age. She tried to jump and tumble and laughed the whole time!!

Ryan has started taking Karate at school and should be getting his GI soon so we can get pictures of him in full gear! Pictures to come!! He’s LOVING it!!

Here’s a hint on my next project for the 14 Days of Love coming up!

Superstitious

2012-01-13T17:42:00.001-06:00

I just realized today is Friday the 13th! Spooky!!! Okay, not really but it did make me think a little bit about superstitions.
Are you superstitious?

I don’t think I could really classify myself as superstitious but there are a few things that I think about that maybe put me in that category.

I know for example, when I was at my Dr’s office for my 36 week check up and they realized that my fluid levels had dropped significantly, that I did NOT want the Dr to rush to deliver that day because it happened to be September 13th and I never wanted Rayne to have her birthday on a Friday, the 13th. Thankfully it was okay to wait one more day and really I had no choice because the Dr. ended up not being able to deliver until the 14th. I don’t even know why the 13th mattered, but it was in my mind… most likely because I’ve heard it’s a bad luck day.

One thing I think about that makes me weird or superstitious.. is that I have a fear of driving over a cigarette that someone has thrown out of their car into the street because I am afraid it will cause my car to blow up. Can you imagine if I had a severe leak under my car and the right wind blew or something and BAM! Likely never happened or ever will.. but still…scary right?

One year.. specifically 2008-2009 Football season when the Steelers were kickin’ butt and takin’ names… I wore a Pittsburgh Steelers belly button ring and I think a toe ring too. The entire season—they WON… they went as far as the SUPER BOWL!! Darn toe ring broke and now they are out of the play offs this year. I guess I thought my jewelry was the good luck charm at that point. By the way, you are a true fan when you have the team jewelry to sport!

Here some Superstitions I’ve never even heard of!
A cricket in the house brings good luck
(um, this is just flat out ridiculous—they make you insane!)
It is bad luck to sleep on a table
(well there go my massages!)
It is bad luck to chase someone with a broom
(that’s too bad, my kids love this!)
To drop a dishcloth means bad luck is coming
(perfect excuse not to cook!)

PYP WINNER!!

2012-01-11T01:00:00.000-06:00

Before I announce my winner which I’m so excited about…. I want to talk this out with ya’ll.

I tend to over think things… I’m okay with that because I think it helps me process all of the possibilities. I even go from positive extremes to negative to cover my bases. Basically I think too much… perhaps talk too much (like now).

Erik asked me the other day about the Ranch Dressing (Ryan’s new favorite dipping sauce).

Erik: Babe, Where is the Ranch? Did you throw it away?
Me: (always feeling the need to dive into a full on explanation) Well I noticed you left it out last night at dinner and you can’t leave Ranch out because it goes bad. Its been over 12 hours and that's just gross! There was only a little bit left anyway so I went ahead and threw it away. We have a new unopened bottle in the fridge I think.
Erik: A simple: “I threw it away would have sufficed”

I can’t help myself.

So I told ya’ll about my fear of give aways because frankly my success in the past hasn’t been the best. I was nervous about this one but had high hopes because Pick Your Plum is becoming well known (considering its all I talk about). I also have signed up for my share of give aways and have had little winning success on that side as well.

I have been known to use Random Org to figure my number for the winner, but seriously—is it really Random if I can click the button a bunch of times to get a number I want? I don’t know if other people do that, but I’ve done it just to see that its not all that random, although my heart wants to believe people go with the first number that pops up. I’m just being honest… you can click it and click it and that’s not really random.

I thought about throwing some paper in the air with numbers on it and telling my daughter who is only 18 months old to grab one- because an 18 month old won’t know why or who they are for! ~overthinking? yes… sorry.

I decided that I would use the 1st person on facebook who responded to my “Pick a number btw 1-39” the chance to pick our winner. After all no one really knows why I’m asking… now that’s RANDOM! Right?? Well it seemed fair to me.

CONGRATS!!! Please email me your address!!! I’ll get PYP your info ASAP!
To ALL: Thank you so much for stopping by and signing up. Means A LOT!!! I am also excited ya’ll are interested in PYP…

XOXO YA’LL!!! Now go get today’s DEAL!! We’ve gotta a party to get ready for!! SHOW US YOUR PLUM starts February 1st!! Read about it HERE!!!

Carpool Insights

2012-01-10T15:06:00.001-06:00

I can’t remember the last time I had to carpool other than when I was in high school when I would drop off my Dad at work so I could drive myself to school.

You learn a lot about the person or people you ride with during the ride. For instance: I learned that driving my Dad to work in the winter meant keeping the heat at a very low blow and not at FULL heat or else he cannot breathe… I always enjoyed turning the heat up when he’d look away and just sit and wait for him to realize it and then giggle uncontrollably. It was our bonding time and I am was a lil’ jokester. He is alive and well but just apparently has small nostril pathways. Still makes me laugh to this day.

Now that I started my new job, Erik and I decided it would be beneficial to start carpooling since we work about 5 minutes away from each other. This is a great savings considering the amount in gas/tolls I was paying driving to my old job.

I think its comical some mornings reflecting on our drive with each other.

It seems clear that Erik is the Tortoise and I am the Hare. He drives like he has no where to go.. while he says that I do not need to be taking corners or peeling away from the stopping point at a red light as if I was in the Indy 500. I’m on a mission people!

Ryan will typically ask why one of us is driving. My reason for driving is because Mommy is faster! Erik always disagrees.

We have set some rules that are still being ironed out but seems only fair that if I am driving, we listen to my music/station and when he drives he can listen to his political news talk shows. The kiddo’s usually overrule anyway, especially on the way home. Ryan has 439 questions and statements and Reese is repeating Mommy or Daddy depending on the day as she removes her socks and shoes.

Good times as a family of 5 driving to and from work every day!

Show US Your Plum {Contest}

2012-01-09T00:00:00.000-06:00

Click HERE to Enter the Give away going on NOW!!
{ends @ midnight on January10th}

A week or so ago, Ashley and I started a Pick Your Plum Challenge asking 20 total people to sign up to get something fun in the mail from us! We sent 20 packages to 20 different people with a few getting a surprise that didn’t sign up (some are still in the mailing process). Nobody knew what they were getting! Snail mail, Packages, Surprises, OH MY!! What these lucky gals got were some of the FABULOUS products from Pick Your Plum! Pick Your Plum is TRULY addicting... it is like having a birthday present Every.Single.Morning. Plus they inspire creativity!

Pick Your Plum is a deal a day website. They have all kinds of goodies.... the fun part? You don’t know what they have until they post it at 7am MST! I have even been known to text a friend or two to HURRY and ACT FAST on a great deal! Here are a few of the things I personally have bought!

Sassy Black Scarf (I’d pluralize this but I actually parted with the rest of my purchase to share with some of those lucky gals)
Note: Not every item has to be crafty—it can be used for kickin your wardrobe up a notch too!

Personalized stamps for me and the hubs plus each of my kiddos has one of their own… every kid sends a thank you note at some point in their life and invitations.. so why not have it come direct from them!

Yes! More Stamps.. but HOW CUTE!! Each of my kiddo’s has their own… I even got one to say JohansonJourney and now wish I had done a few others but thankfully there’s always a chance these will come back!

Pretty awesome right? So here comes the GOOD news!

Ashley and I have teamed up WITH PYP and will be hosting a Monthly LINK contest! You know what that means right? There is a prize! Every FIRST Wednesday of the month, a link party will open. This will be your opportunity to enter the contest. It will run until the LAST Wednesday of the month!

STARTS FEBRUARY 1, 2012

What do you link up?

Any project using PYP projects.
3 EASY RULES to play along:

-Link up your post about PYP products!
Posts should be: creations/projects/gift ideas/tutorials you have created using your favorite Plum products. This includes ways to wear/pair any fashion items, i.e. jewelry, scarfs, shirts, etc.

-You MUST like PYP on Facebook or Sign up for their Newsletter

- MUST Include the “Show Us Your Plum” Button in your blog post

At the end of each contest period, a winner will be chosen with the help of PYP and they will receive a surprise box of goodies from PYP worth $25. You will be surprised what you will find in that box! So many awesome goodies. The best part... well for me.. is that it’s a surprise... who doesn’t love that right?!

You’ll have to check their website EVERY DAY to find your perfect thing, but remember, don’t pass it up because they have a limited supply and everyday is something new!

PYP has a Pinterest page FULL of inspirations on what you can make using their products! Your blog and pictures could make their page! Here are a couple that people have created and PYP pinned that I LOVE!

Source: etsy.com via PickYourPlum on Pinterest

Source: thebeautydepartment.com via PickYourPlum on Pinterest

Source: storyofdesign.tumblr.com via PickYourPlum on Pinterest

Have Questions? Leave a comment and we will answer them! Did you get a special package from us? If so, love to know your first thoughts!?
Want to see Today’s Deal!?!?!? Check it out now!!

If you happen to “Like” them today for the first time on Facebook, tell em’ Show Us Your Plum, Ashley & Janette sent you!! Pick Your Plum will also be announcing this party on their page to remind you!! They might also decide to show your Link off on their page!!!

So Much to Say

2012-01-06T21:57:00.001-06:00

Did you sign up for my Give away? Please don’t forget to sign up!! Its the easiest entry!!

Click HERE

I started my new job this week! I had been working at the same company since I graduated college and just celebrated my 10th anniversary with them. It was time to move on. I have been dying to find something new and my 2012 is off to a good start! I feel more busy than I did before and I’m learning a lot. I’m still working out the bugs on how to make time for my blog and YOU! I’ve been staying awake later and I’m pooped!

Recap 2011 Extravaganza I want to give a big THANK YOU to all who joined the Recap 2011. It was a huge success and it wouldn’t have been possible without the creator, EmmyMom!! I’m honored to be included and thrilled to have met some awesome friends!! As you know, there was a perk to joining and a winner was chosen!!
Congrats to Jen of Denton Sanatorium~

Pick Your Plum Challenge Thanks for all who signed up for the Pick your Plum Challenge!! I have mailed out 90% of the items and might even been sending a surprise to some who didn’t sign up!!! Who could it be!?!? These gals who signed up and are being surprised will have detailed information included with the item mailed about an upcoming party.
Please check back Monday for more details!!!
Hint: This will be SUPER fun for those of you who LOVE PYP as much as me and already have bought products or plan to!

Husband Tips: Last weekend I gave ya’ll 1st & 2nd Editions for Husband Tips which will likely start to be my Saturday and Sunday posts going forward (Except this weekend b/c I’m trying to get caught up)… but stay tuned. I told Erik that I would be sharing our lil’convo’s with tips and he has already started making a list….this is huge!! He’s a man of little words so I’m thrilled that he’s letting me include him, even if its at the humorous expense of me.

House Tour: In my previous survey and several comments over the course of the months, I have had people ask for a house tour. My blog pal Ashley did one starting 1 room at a time.. why didn’t I think of that!! Stay tuned.

I am so excited for this year and I’ve got so many ideas!! Hope you stick around to see it all!!

Finally…..

My speeding ticket update. Story HERE

Ya’ll, I’m so frustrated, annoyed, and whatever other words you can think of along the lines of being flat PISSED about this. I have written to 3 top news channels, the Dallas Morning newspaper, Bill O’Reilly, Florence Shapiro (state senator) and NOTHING. People even tweeted about it for me (thanks ya’ll) and wrote a blog post or two on my behalf.
AGH!
I’m not sure what kind of news crosses your tv’s each day but the “BREAKING NEWS” here in Dallas is seriously RIDICULOUS. I’m appalled that my story is not worth mentioning but we need to interrupt your show to tell you about a window washer who is stuck.
I have told my story to a bunch of people who all agree its CRAP and yet, everyone says—just pay it.
I’m stubborn, and that’s FINE… and maybe I’ll have to pay it but I’m not willing to let this go.
If you read the story, remember the details and are passionate like me--- WHAT ELSE SHOULD I DO!?

I called an attorney in that county to ask him for help—and amazingly enough, he can make it all go away for $575! WOW! What a ~~steal~~ deal!! I am sorry but if he can make it disappear then why can’t I! By the way I’m not stupid! I’m not paying the dude!

Plum Crazy!

2012-01-03T04:00:00.001-06:00

Folks, its time for a give away!! I am so excited to be hosting that I can barely stand it!! For those of you who know me, have heard me say that I’m no expert crafter but I am slowly getting there. Crafting and creating can get expensive. It's true, just ask my husband!!

Pick Your Plum is a 1 DEAL a DAY site that offers their products at ROCK bottom prices! I know you all think I’m totally nuts for my obsession but let me tell you--- there are others out there and there is PROOF because I have checked the site as early as it hits 8am central time and have watched the item sell out within minutes!! NO KIDDING!!

Wanna know how you can be in the loop? Just click HERE and sign up for the email newsletter!! I sometimes can’t even wait and go to their site directly. Oh and another fun fact, on their facebook page, when you “Like” them… you are also privy to any news flashes about a mystery box or anything else they have up their sleeve! I’ll be honest, I’ve “Liked” several companies on Facebook before and I have never seen any as quick and responsive as the team at PYP! They are also so kind and generous in their comments, seriously—look for yourself!! They also are on Pinterest where I love going to find ideas!!

TODAY through January 10th, I will have this give away open to one LUCKY USA RESIDENT winner to get a Plum Box worth $25.00 of awesome goodies hand selected by the PYP team!! Surprises are AWESOME!!! Check out some of the cool things they have offered and trust me, people beg for them to reissue the same items, so there’s still a chance you could get some of these yourself!!

Ready!? Easy entry, just leave 1 COMMENT letting me know all that you completed:
MANDATORY:
1 POINT: Follow/Like Pick Your Plum on Facebook HERE or if you don’t have facebook, sign up for their newsletter HERE. PLEASE TELL THEM 'THE JOHANSON JOURNEY' SENT YOU!
(If you do both, you get 2 points)

Optional Extra Entries:
1 point: Follow Pick Your Plum on Pinterest.
1 point: Follow The Johanson Journey Blog.
1 point: “Like” The Johanson Journey Blog on Facebook

5 Chances!! Good Luck. The winner will be announced January 11th!!

How to do a give away!

2012-01-02T02:00:00.000-06:00

This ought to be entertaining, right? ME, Janette ..telling YOU how to do a successful give away!! Well, actually I’m totally kidding because I don’t know if there is a perfect way to host one……. Is there? I have tried doing give aways in my past and some of you know it lead to a confession in this POST.

I wanted to tell ya’ll that I am hosting one tomorrow and hope you come back to sign up. Please!!

I was talking to my IRL friend Krista who can be found at Powered by Mom Spit and she brought up a good point about give aways. Having a blogger host a give away about something that they LOVE and KNOW and can share with their readers is key! Makes sense, right? It helps to see the product in action and see that your host is actually a true believer. So, I’m going to go with this method.

I never was a big scarf person and I have no idea where my excitement for them came from but I’ll blame it on Stacie over at Park Avenue Blog. She has a great collection!! <jealous>. She was sweet enough to send me a fun video about scarves and its pretty cool!!! You can see it HERE. I can’t say I am a pro at knowing the best ways to wear them, but I will tell you that PICK YOUR PLUM gave me the PERFECT opportunity to try! The price was too good to pass up and they looked super cute too! The intent when buying was to get 1 for myself and give the rest as gifts but it has been VERY hard for me to let go. Here is my version of ways you can wear a scarf via Pick Your Plum.

And if that wasn’t fun.. check out these CUTE stamps I got!!! I actually bought these for all my family for Christmas and then got to thinking- my kiddo’s are going to need one for themselves when we mail out invitations or thank you notes!
So if these small examples of FUN don’t peek your interest, then I don’t know what will! Hope ya stop by tomorrow at a chance to win. I promise I won’t go nuts and have 74 rules to follow!

Have you signed up for Pick your Plum? There’s a DEAL going on NOW!!

Oh and guess what! I finally signed up for Twitter!! HOLY COW!! Button on the top left if ya wanna follow!!

Signed…..

Admittedly addicted to PYP,

Husbands Helpful Tips 2

2012-01-01T04:00:00.000-06:00

2nd Edition

Note: Tips offered in these posts going forward are meant to be humorous and not offensive.

Its Christmas Eve….. the family gathering with Erik’s side of the family has ended and the kids are nestled snug in their beds. Its time to get our Santa hats on and tackle the items requiring assembly. I’ve come to the conclusion that toy makers and assemblers go to great lengths to make these nights last FOREVER. I also imagine them sitting at their work stations putting the final product into the box and laughing hysterically knowing that the end users will be sitting on the floor in the middle of the night with nuts, bolts, screw drivers and all other required tools use to assemble this toy.

In an attempt to be a helpful assistant Santa, I start to pull items out of a box to get the pieces laid out and ready. I was put on hold because he didn’t think I could handle the task at hand so I went ahead and started applying stickers. How HARD is that!? Easy! Done.

OOOH!!! I begin to think that I can actually figure this out and put a piece together. I grab the screw driver, screw it in and voila! We are one step closer to going to sleep.

Erik looks at it…. checks the stability…. shakes his head and gives a slight roll of the eyes.

WHAT!? I did it!!

“Did you read the directions?" he asks.

“It was pretty obvious where the part was suppose to go, so I put it in” I replied in hopes that it was GOOD ENOUGH so we could just GO TO BED!

Husband Helpful Tip #1: Just let Santa do it because he reads directions and is a professional mechanic.

Husband Helpful Tip #2: You just worry about those dust bunnies and let me take care of making sure things get built up to standard.

My attempts to help delayed the bedtime by at least another 20 minutes. BUMMER!! Picture above shows I’m not the only one who doesn’t read directions.

Husbands Helpful Tips 1

2011-12-31T04:00:00.000-06:00

1st Edition

Note: Tips offered in these posts going forward are meant to be humorous and not offensive.

I often wonder to myself if my husband is blind to dirt, dust, clutter and all things related to keeping a house clean. I know I am a tad OCD when it comes to some things around the house. One thing that drives me batty is the amount of dust bunnies that collect around the corners and edges of our rooms where we have hard wood flooring. Its not a huge deal to pick it up but my GOSH its ridiculous the amount that accumulates in a short period of time.

I am constantly bending down to pick it up. I cannot figure out how Erik does not see it or perhaps he does and just doesn’t care. I explained to Erik that one day, my back is going to give out from the number of times I bend down to pick this stuff up and if he’d just help me out by picking it up every now and then, it would be a SUPER HELP to me and my back!

Husband Helpful Tip #1: You just need to use your knees when you bend down so that you won’t have back issues.

Husband Helpful Tip #2: Maybe you should use one of the FOUR vacuums that we have.

Thanks babe.

Happy New Year!!

Q4 2011

2011-12-30T02:00:00.000-06:00

I’m sortof sad to see this Recap Party come to a close, although I’m DYIN’ to know who wins all 8 prizes!!! I am just amazed how fast this year has gone by!!! Lets take a look back at October, November & December!

**** A quick note of apology for not making it around to leave a comment with everyone, I still love ya and hope you haven’t given up on me! ******

A few reminders:
1. If you follow all hosts, you earn a bonus point and must, I repeat MUST let Emmy know in the comments of THIS POST in order for it to count.
2. Link up each week (total of 4 times) and get 1 point per, however you can gain another bonus point by linking up all 4 TIMES!!
ALL RULES and DETAILS can be found read the rules here. and would love for you to join! Its easy, fun and harmless to be entered to win 8 prizes--- oh and meeting new people is also a perk!! Take some time to click the follow button, even if its not one of the hosts…. could be your next bloggy BFF!!

Grab our button and let’s roll!

OCTOBER:

Aw, my pregnant buddy/BFF had her sweet baby girl Emery!!

It was also fun celebrating Halloween this year since it was Reese’s first time to dress up and head out.. and we went to a fun parade for their school…

I also started writing a letter to Ryan about lil’ antics he has to remember later… ahhh… memories!
Also tested out the local Pumpkin Patch!

I was enjoying my maternity leave and also posted Rayne’s new born shots! One of my favorites:

NOVEMBER:
I gave ya’ll a blog tour to point out some of the important things added!
OOOH!!! I also gave you a VLOG about my obsession of hand/footprint art!!

I realized also that Reese and I like to eat our donuts the same way!!! Love it!

Aw, I did another fun craft—one I thought of myself! I can’t believe it! hah!

Linked up with a meme hosted by Kmama of the Daily Dribbles &Emmy to talk about my sweet girl and thank my gal pal Amy at Nine Ninety One for such a sweet outfit!!

I also showed my toe painting skills!

And enjoyed time with family at the park while the weather was nice!

DECEMBER:

Aw…. as glad as I am to start a fresh year, I’m sad to be saying goodbye to December and 2011!

I took the plunge and am now my OWN DOMAIN!!!!
http://www.thejohansonjourney.com/

I shared my 12 Days of Christmas with Traditions and Favorites.

I also shared a VERY annoying situation about a speeding ticket from a DECADE ago that is STILL NOT RESOLVED!!! UGH!!!

Rayne also was baptized!!!

I am so thrilled to have shared this year with you all. I had no idea when I made my 2011 new years resolution to be a better blogger that it would be as rewarding as it has been. I am so thankful to the friends I have made and hope to continue to be a better blogger and can’t wait to grow with you all in 2012!!!

Its a Challenge

2011-12-29T11:23:00.001-06:00

I am not very competitive by nature. Throw a challenge my way and I’ll pounce on it!

You ready!!?

I am teaming up with my blog pal Ashley at Cherished Bliss to bring a ‘hard to pass up challenge’. We are both equally enamored by Pick Your Plum and want it to rub off on you!!

WHO IS UP FOR IT!!??!?!

There are just 2 things you have to do in order to be qualified for this challenge.

1st.

Leave a comment letting me know you are GAME! I’ll respond to you requesting your MAILING ADDRESS.

{hint: you will get a FUN surprise in the mail, from yours truly}

2nd.

Agree to write a blog post about your package on a chosen date which will be explained in your package.

By agreeing, you are also being entered to win a Pick Your Plum package provided by ME!

This is a challenge that will be available to the 1st TEN people who sign up with a comment on each of our blogs (total of 20 people!!!!) So, if my comments are full, then check Ashley’s!

Get excited!!

I think I’m back

2011-12-28T17:15:00.001-06:00

It wasn’t like I was gone long… but I think I am back?

I am missing my friends on the left… how sad is that!!?!?

I am not sure how this effects you all, but for giggles, maybe you can just update your link to my blog if you have me listed to show:

http://www.thejohansonjourney.com/

I feel so official although it was very painful. I send a big Thank You to Ashley and Sarah Kate for trying to help me. I have no idea how it finally ended up working but I am thankful!!

It is working,

right?

I have some blog posts I have been working on while I’ve been waiting for this to work, so get ready people!! I’m gonna go CRAZY!! hah!

TEST

2011-12-28T10:18:00.001-06:00

Hey ya’ll—I decided to go to a .COM and I have no idea what I’m doing. I’m testing to see if my posts still work…. Thanks for standing by!

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-24T09:46:00.000-06:00

I was saving this final 12 Days of Christmas for today to share with you our final tradition this time of year. Every year we dress up and get our family pictures taken. We use the best shots for our Christmas card and have lasting memories of our growing family from year to year.

This year we got lucky and found an amazing photographer through my gal pal Krista and I now have her on speed dial to use for hopefully many events and years to come!! Chau Ly with DC Imaginations created amazing pictures and video for us to share with you! DC Imaginations can also be found on Facebook with updates on other fantastic projects she is working on HERE! And as if she isn’t talented enough with photography, she also has time to run an ETSY shop HERE which features fun knits for babies and pets! Thanks Chau and please enjoy!!

Merry Christmas everyone!! LOVE YA’LL!!!!

The Johanson Family

Q3 2011 Recap

2011-12-23T02:00:00.000-06:00

I know people will probably be SWAMPED and not checking blogs but just wanted to let you know that I’ll be posting a lil’ Christmas Cheer tomorrow on Christmas Eve. If you get a chance, stop by!! I sure hope everyone has a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Lets take a look back at July, August & September, aka…. the hottest days of my LIFE.

Grab our button and let’s roll!

July:
Ahh… the month I created more monsters for my kids to fear… well, in hopes to avoid potty accidents..I thought for sure I could write a book about it.

I came up with a Friend 2 Friend match up for bloggers to meet other bloggers (sadly this fell by the waist side about a week before Rayne was born). I loved getting to know ya’ll more… need to get back to this!

I talked a bit about feeling bad for Ann Coulter for being attacked for speaking her mind and giving facts and wishing that I could sometimes be anonymous on my blog so I can write and speak my mind about stuff with out worrying.
I couldn’t help myself and had to talk about the heat!!!!

One of my favorite descriptions were:
It's so hot, I saw two trees fighting over a dog.
It’s so hot, a seat belt makes a pretty good branding iron.
I was also very excited to meet Rayne and showed an updated sono pic!

I also was starting to talk about Christmas with my wish list including

AUGUST
My favorite part of August was my baby shower for Rayne!!!

I shared one of my Dr. visits and my blood disorder which has always put me at high risk during my pregnancies…. HERE.

I also told ya’ll about how music was letting me down these days and started writing sponsor posts by SOCIAL SPARK! Getting paid to write a post sounded good to me- Ask me if you want to know more!
I got a fun 4D ultrasound too this month!!

OOH!! I can’t forget to mention my FIRST EVER SELF created craft idea!! I gave a tutorial!!

Ryan also checked out his first Rodeo!

SEPTEMBER

Ryan was turning 4 years old!! We were thrown off gaurd this month as we thought Rayne was coming in early October, but she debuted 10 days before Ryan’s birthday!

Wrote a lil’ ditty about Rayne’s arrival:

Thank goodness for Guest Bloggers--- LOVED YA’LL!!

I apologize in advance if there are typo’s or misspellings—I’m too pooped to check! MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Christmas Spirit

2011-12-22T03:00:00.000-06:00

If you can manage to get through this post, there is a VLOG included!!!

Please don't forget to take my survey from yesterday's post!!
Click here to take survey

Also, reminder to get your Recap Posts ready to link up starting tomorrow for your chance at a great prize and tell us about July, August & September!!
read the rules here

I wanted to share a few things that have helped me get in the Christmas Spirit!

I found a CUTE Button Ornament on Pinterest which lead me to Just Me & Her & Her & Him Blog. This was so cute that I had to attempt it myself!! Here is my version of the Button Ornament!

And then, I realized my baskets of cards I've been collecting doesn't do them justice, so I found this idea on Kelly's Blog which I pinned on Pinterest too and wanted to show you my version of the Christmas Card Tree!
I got this tree at Hobby Lobby 50% off and its prelit! Its a dinky tree but serves the purpose! Now we can truly enjoy the photo cards we get!!

Okay!! Are ya'll ready!?!?! I've said it before and I'll say it again!! I'm in love with PickYourPlum and highly recommend it!! I am going to be doing a give way for them after the first of the year and I'm SO excited to share it with you!!!
So, if you have about 8 minutes to listen to me ramble and see some fun stuff I got, then sit back and enjoy!! Oh, and you get to see my kiddo's live and in action!! (I can't figure out how to get a better quality so if you have tips, let me know)....
If you join PickYourPlum, leave me a comment and let me know. I'm interested to see how many of ya'll love em' too!

Inquiring minds want to know!

2011-12-21T14:50:00.001-06:00

Hey blog pals! Remember I was telling you about buying a book about ‘bettering’ my blog!? Well, I’m slow moving! I gave ya’ll a blog tour HERE where I told you I created my ‘elevator pitch’:

'Where Family, Friends, Crafting and

Random Thoughts Collide'

The 2nd task was to create a list and I figure I do this pretty often.. from a list of my top favorite websites, lists of top favorite crafts and even top favorite pinterest ideas. Unless I’m just totally missing the boat on this task. I’m considering it DONE.

Moving on to Task 3. This tasks is to help promote your blog. I created a facebook page HERE and am sure this task is going to be on going. A great source they give for 11 ways to increase your chances of being linked by a blogger that you might enjoy looking into.

Before I tackle the next task, I thought it might be fun to survey my blog friends/readers.
PuuuuUUULLLLLLEEEEEEEEAAAAAASEEE HUMOR ME and click on my survey—its only 7 questions!!! LOVE YA!!

Click here to take survey

What’s your Morning Routine?

2011-12-20T04:00:00.000-06:00

Ya’ll have seen plenty of pictures of my sweet smiling boy Ryan. I rarely write about the chaos that happens in my house as a means to try to forget mainly but I cannot hold it in any longer.

Dear Ryan,
Over the course of the past few weeks, dare I say months you have had a growing ambition to do things yourself which is a relief! You’ve mastered buttoning your jeans yourself as well as working the zipper on your jacket and even putting on a belt. Great job!

I have gone to great lengths to make sure the clothes hanging in your closet are all the proper size and I am always showing you anything new that has been bought and you seem to love it….. at the moment. I am not sure what or who has gotten to you about your clothes but lately, our mornings are out.of.conrol! I admit, there is some confusion in the closet because it is 40 degrees outside and yet I have some tshirts still hanging.

I have explained that a tshirt can be worn, HOWEVER, a long sleeved shirt must be worn under it because it is too cold to go outside in just a t-shirt. I found out last week in a video that another parent sent me of you at school during the Santa visit that you remove your long sleeved shirts and leave the t-shirt on when you get there. I know this trick! Its even been in the movies! ‘Kid dresses how their parent wants them to and has a change of clothes in their bag.’ Maybe you saw an old rerun of Saved by the Bell? I didn’t realize this occurred as early as FOUR YEARS OLD.

The temper tantrums about what shirt you wear must come to an end. It is not a big deal if your jeans have a hole in the knee! You also do not have to wear your belt every single day. Flailing about and removing all of your clothes out of hatred for the items on your body is uncalled for. Your sister, Reese watches you and learns from you and just this morning I witnessed her freaking out about the pants I selected for her. We do not have time to change our minds in the morning when picking out our clothes. I have a hard enough time dressing myself with the slim pickin’s of clothes that fit me to get out the door and to work on time.

Lets try picking out our clothes the night before and if that doesn’t work then I say we all just go to school and work in our jammies and call it a day.

Love you!

Mommy

Immersion

2011-12-19T11:53:00.001-06:00

We invited our family to join us this past weekend to witness Rayne’s baptism! I wasn’t sure if we would make it because Reese was sick with RSV in the days leading up to it and Rayne was coming down with another terrible cold which I was afraid could be RSV too, but so far we are in the clear. We made it and it was wonderful!! Thank you to everyone who was able to join us!

I was especially excited for this ceremony because the Priest who was going to perform Rayne’s baptism was the whole reason I fell in love with this particular church to begin with. Msgr. Don Fischer retired almost 2 years ago right before Reese was born, so we missed having him do hers but he was the Priest who baptized Ryan and did the marriage ceremony for me and Erik. He came back upon request to do the baptisms this particular day and it made the event so special! {picture overload, sorry}

Our sweet Rayne Nicole

Not sure if Ryan is giving an offering or taking one? Cute!

God Parents
Craig Johanson (Grandpa) & Kaye Franks (Gammy)

Q2-2011 Recap

2011-12-16T02:00:00.000-06:00

Ahh, Spring time and early summer!!! One of my favorite times of year!
I’m here to review April, May & June!
A few reminders:
1. If you follow all hosts, you earn a bonus point and must, I repeat MUST let Emmy know in the comments of THIS POST in order for it to count.
2. Link up each week (total of 4 times) and get 1 point per, however you can gain another bonus point by linking up all 4 TIMES!!
ALL RULES and DETAILS can be found read the rules here. and would love for you to join! Its easy, fun and harmless to be entered to win 8 prizes--- oh and meeting new people is also a perk!! Take some time to click the follow button, even if its not one of the hosts…. could be your next bloggy BFF!!

Grab our button and let’s roll!

April-
Aside from posting a pregnancy highlights with pictures from 4 months pregnant with each of my kids so I could see the difference…

I was clearly still not willing to give up on my Give Aways. I think I wanted so badly to promote my friends and their creations or companies that I thought everyone would want what I had to give away. I honestly felt, looking back that it was the most stressful thing EVER. I was practically on my knees begging people to sign up.. I mean, seriously—AGH!!

I think now is the time to tell a very embarrassing blogging confession. Are you ready? This is HUGE.
Because my giveaway turn out was so crappy, I invented people and signed them up. I knew that if Random Org picked them, I would just move to the next number that was a REAL person, but I hated feeling like a loser.
THERE!! I SAID IT!!! I’ll never invent again but good golly Miss Molly! I was trying so hard… I can’t wait to revamp my blog and take that link off my top menu!

I also got into more blog hops, including a link party that didn’t last for very long but I got to meet Impulsive Addict & Seriously Shawn who were both bloggers I was in AWWWWW of!!! Now they’re my top favorite blog pals!

My Tuesday Tributes were still kickin’ it this month, but dwindling…
We also had some Easter fun!

May-
Okay, what’s the deal? I keep looking at my older posts from May and only a few pictures show up and the rest are big black boxes with a big ole

That’s weird…. Well, it appears if you were reading my blog back then, that I just started my PARKING WARS with my asshat neighbor from down the street. I thought it was never going to end! We had the police involved, security cameras installed and I would say that by October, he was no longer bothering us.

A proud Mommy moment is that Reese was officially walking this month!! 11months old!! So fun!! I’d show you but its blacked out…

I also gave a tribute to my honey for our 4 year Anniversary

OH!!! And I started to get a little crafty!!!

Its also a good thing to know we all survived May 21, 2011.. remember, this was when that quack said the world was going to end.

June-
Ooohh, this was a good month!! I got introduced to Pinterest..or shall I say this is when my addiction began?

I joined a flip flop swap with Rebecca over at THE TEXAS DARLINGS!! Talk about fun!!! I love flip flops!!
I created a summer bucket list HERE which appears to have been mostly a failure. I got some stuff done but hey, I can always add it to next years, right!?

Our baby girl Reese was turning 1 years old.

I was in the midst of planning a party to remember (well, I’ll remember and she’ll have the pictures to prove it)

It was also Father’s Day Month and I got to get crafty again!!

I feel tired just reviewing these months!! Seems like a busy time of the year!! Not to mention I was 5 Months pregnant with my favorite IRL bestie Kristi!

Your turn!!! What were you up to for Q2?

The wonderful hosts of the review extravaganza Emmy Mom, CA Girl, Emilisq, Impulsive Addict, Janette of Johanson Journey, Mimi Living in France and Runner Mom

Lets Share!

2011-12-15T15:50:00.001-06:00

Are you getting your post ready or reviewing your April, May & June? You can link up with us through Tuesday of next week for it to count! Just a lil’ reminder! If you have not linked up or need a refresher, you can read the rules here.

Now lets share.. I set up a Facebook page for my blog as you may remember me telling you was over there on the right to join. Slowly but surely I’ve had friends “Like” it and I hope you decide to NOW if you haven’t already. Here are my TOP 3 reasons why….
1. You are out and about and can’t get to your google reader and want to know if there is something new to read—I’ll post the link to my latest post.
2. I recently bought a book online that I’ve also told you about that has 31 tasks to help make your blog better!! I’d love to share these tasks with you and get you thinking.
3. I know we all love finding a good deal online and sometimes we just don’t have time to look! I have been finding some lately and would love to share with you so you aren’t missing out! I know a select few of you who have taken a look at my suggestions from my post about which ‘deals’ I have signed up for either on your own (Emmy) or because of peer pressure from me (Krista & Jessica). Maybe you signed up and I don’t know.. but if not—please let me remind you and tell you about 1 more I think might be a hit!
Pick Your Plum
Some days there are crafts, some days there are fun girly items and sometimes its just a fun gift idea!! You have to check them out!! Give it at least a week or two! Trust me, you’ll see something you love for a price you can’t turn down!

Groopdealz
Another great site that sends out daily deals and sometimes they aren’t up my alley but I’d say that more often than not, I’m wishing I could buy at least once a week here if I could.
My newest one to add and share is:
MamaBargains
This one offers more than 1 deal a day. Its random and mysterious!

The one thing about these 3 sites--- you will see the deal(s)… but if you SNOOZE…. you LOSE!! Trust me, its happened to me before. While I was buzzing all my friends to show them this hot deal, I went back to get it myself and BAM! GONE!!! Darn it!! So, I’m tellin’ you all to sign up.
I’ve purchased from both Pick your Plum & Groopdealz and LOVE them!!! Like them all on facebook too for extra chances to find out the inside scoop.

If you know of an awesome deal, don’t be stingy—SHARE IT!!

Get it while its hot!!

2011-12-13T17:00:00.001-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Sprint for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

We are all finding amazing deals and as your blog friend, I feel its important to share!!

Sprint is offereing an amazing deal for a limited time!!! This deal ends 12/14!!!

Get the HTC EVO 4G or EVO Shift for FREE only on Sprint's website!!!!!
Android™ powered EVO 4G devices

The 4G details seem hard to pass up: A large vibrant 4.3 inch screen, dual cameras, 32GB MicroSD card slot and wicked fast web speeds, this is more than a phone. It's a Mobile Hotspot for up to 8 of your Wi-Fi devices. It's a high-quality mobile device – featuring Android™ 2.3 and the award-winning HTC Sense™ experience, and it's your personal portable HD media center with an HDMI output so you can share in HD.

T The awesomeness you’d expect from the HTC EVO™ 4G name in a new, streamlined design with slide-out QWERTY keyboard. The HTC EVO Shift 4G rocks a brilliant 3.6-inch touchscreen display, MP3 player, preloaded Kindle® reader, and Sprint TV® access to keep you entertained on the fly. Surf the Web at 3G/4G speeds and fire up the optional Mobile Hotspot capability to share a connection with up to 8 Wi-Fi devices. Snap pics and clips with the 5.0MP camera/camcorder to share with your social network in an instant, or message like a maniac. Hungry for more? Hit up the Android Market™ and indulge in apps galore.

Read this fast and hurry over to get yours and get WAIVED activation for new lines of service and FREE shipping from Sprint! Christmas can come early if you act now!!

http://www.sprint.com/landings/holidayoffers/

The reviews on both the EVO 4G & EVO shift are awesome!

Other fantastic offers from Sprint:

Get up to $250 for your phone — even if it's from another carrier — with the Sprint Buyback program. The environment wins and so does your wallet.

Happy Happy Deals!!

Christmas Tutorials

2011-12-13T04:00:00.000-06:00

My sweet friend Ashley over at Cherished Bliss asked me to be a guest judge for her Christmas tutorial link party!

All I have to do is pick my favorites and share them with you!! I’m needing some inspiration and hope you love these as much as me!! Now, I just need to find the time and energy to do these too!! All of the crafters did an amazing job!!

My TOP 5 picks in no particular order
(click the picture to be taken to their tutorial):

BURLAP CHRISTMAS TREE

JINGLE BELL ORNAMENT

GARLAND OF GIVING

VINTAGE PAPER ROSE TREE

CHRISTMAS CONE ADVENT

Do me a favor, please let these gals know I sent you and if you want to see the other ideas you can pop over to the master list of great ideas to find your favorites!! Click HERE for Cherished Bliss’ Link Party list. Happy Crafting! Ashley has a craft and tell party weekly if you want to link up!

Linkin up with gal pals Impulsive Addict & Seriously Shawn! I’ve gotta tell them about these cute ideas!!

Oops!

2011-12-12T12:16:00.001-06:00

I’ve gotten a little off track since I last posted my 12 Days of Christmas on Wednesday of last week on day 7 and am now 5 days behind. I got a tad bit derailed by the whole “Statute of Limitations” post and sadly haven’t heard anything from any of the news stations. I’m still holding out hope… at least through January 29th when my license comes due for renewal.

I want to thank everyone who has linked up with our fabulous group of gals hosting the Review Extravaganza!! I am slowly making my rounds to visit everyone who has linked up…. so if I haven’t stopped by, don’t give up on me! If you have not linked up, you can read the rules here and you have until tomorrow (Tuesday at 11:59PM Pacific) to link up the first week- so there is still time! And don't forget if you link up all four weeks you get a bonus point- so hurry and do it!! Oh and an extra point for following all hosts—EASY!

NOTE: There were a few who recapped that did not include the button….
This is a requirement to get the point….since it is the first week, those who didn’t include it in their posts will still get the point, however starting week two if you don't have the button in your post you will not receive a point - we need to be fair to those who follow the rules. If you don't know how to include the button, let me know and I’m happy to help!

Sorry to do my last days of Christmas in fast forward, but here it goes..

Day 8: Tree toppers
When I was growing up, the memories I have of our Christmas tree always looked something like this:

Very extravagant and artsy. I never recall an angel or star, so when I ventured out on my own, I always tried to recreate these lavish tree toppers. I have only started my crafty creations recently so I was never impressed with my tree and moved to the elegant and large angels.

Over time, my poor angel has been bent, broken and smashed and now we celebrate with a simple star.

Day 9: Nativity Scene

How many nativity scenes do you have for decoration in your home at Christmas? I think I have a total of 4 or 5 but also think I am missing some that are in that one box that has garland that I also cannot locate anywhere!
In the past few years, I have had a growing love for Willow Tree Figures and last year I got a great collection to start my very own nativity scene which I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE!!! I actually have it on display year round but I change the location to be more visible at this time of year. Check out that camel!! We have found Chippy, our Elf riding him! Isn’t it beautiful!!??!

Day 10: Stockings

This is my mantle at home and my favorite part are the stockings! I just ordered these this year so that we all have matching stockings. Ryan and Erik have the Green stockings and the girls and myself have the Red. I got them at Personal Creations.com and they really turned out well!! We didn’t have stockings growing up, and now that I think about it, I don’t even recall a mantle in our houses. The only problem with stockings, starting this late in my life is.. I have little experience with good ideas to put in them. I did spend some time on the aisles of Target & Walmart and found some cute things for the kids but how do you keep your adult stockings fun? Socks and undies have to get boring after a while, right? Tips?

Day 11: Favorite Websites for Christmas
I spend more time looking online for Christmas ideas than I do in a physical store! It is so much easier and I can cover a lot of ground online vs. walking around with a car carrier and a possible crying baby.
So here are my top 10 favorite Gift websites:
1. How Does She: Great DIY tips and ideas and free printables, you can search by holidays for other times of the year too!
2. Pick Your Plum: This website actually sends a daily email for a HOT deal and I have already gotten some Christmas presents through them!! {Heart them}
3. My Publisher: I have only used this site for making photo books and my family has used them for Calendar’s and quality is AWESOME!!
4. Shutterfly: They sure have come a long way from just photo sharing and a few cards—I love their gift ideas!
5. Etsy: More than a fair share of amazing gift ideas and creators to search!
6. Hallmark: From stationary, frames, and even jewelry, you can’t go wrong with a happy from Hallmark!
7. Target: no need to explain…
8. Red Envelope: I just love the selection they have and if its too much $$, the idea alone for the items send me off to find what I’m looking for.
9. Personal Creations: I usually always order something from them every year- usually an ornament or a personalized gift for a friend/family member!
10. Overstock: This is a great site if you need to find that perfect item and get a great price too!

Day 12: This final day will be postponed and published on Christmas Eve…

First Quarter

2011-12-09T02:00:00.001-06:00

Its our 1st review of January, February and March and I’m so excited!! A few reminders:
1. If you follow all hosts, you earn a bonus point and must, I repeat MUST let Emmy know in the comments of THIS POST in order for it to count.
2. Link up each week (total of 4 times) and get 1 point per, however you can gain another bonus point by linking up all 4 TIMES!!
ALL RULES and DETAILS can be found HERE and would love for you to join! Its easy, fun and harmless to be entered to win 8 prizes--- oh and meeting new people is also a perk!! Take some time to click the follow button, even if its not one of the hosts…. could be your next bloggy BFF!!

Grab our button and let’s roll!

Johanson January:
Hard to believe that Erik was gone for 2 weeks for the Army and we tried to stay super busy to pass the time, such as going to the stadium where the Super Bowl was going to be played by my FAVORITE team, The Steelers. Sadly they didn’t win, but still have SIX under their belt!

It appears my blogging was in the early stages of trying to meet new people, trying to do give aways with little success and trying to remain original.
Amazes me to see a picture of Ryan and Reese at that time too because they have changed so much!! Mackie still looks the same, except she has packed on a few pounds.

January also marks the beginning of my craft adventures!!

Johanson February:
We welcomed Taddy into our home and am proud to say that he is still alive and kickin, but in a new tank…

I met this awesome blogger friend and became obessed with her coffee cozies!! (Great Gift idea.. hint hint), say hi to Liberty!

We discussed getting another dog…

It also appears I was not giving up on doing blog give aways…. agh, when will I learn!
Behind the scenes of my blogging, we found out we were pregnant with Rayne but kept it hush hush for about 13 weeks.

Johanson March:

I decided I’d get wild and crazy and come up with a Link Party and even paid to have a fancy blog button created;

Makes me sad because it fizzled out fast (maybe 6 weeks?) and I had high hopes that it would be a huge hit.
I am not sure what happened in my March archives because I cannot see any of the pictures to share, but it doesn’t appear that much was going on. I think I was still trying to find my place in the blog world and reaching out to meet new friends.

Here’s hoping April, May and June are more productive and exciting!! Can’t wait to read your recaps!! Buzz me if you need any help or have questions about this party!! You have till Tuesday of next week to link up to get your 1st point, unless you are an overachiever and are already following ALL OF THE HOSTS, b/c in that case you will already have 2 points!!

Statute of Limitations

2011-12-08T10:34:00.002-06:00

Pardon the pause from my 12 Days of Christmas today as I just have to get this off my chest.

Dear Fox 4 News, NBC5 DFW & WFAA Channel 8 Dallas,
RE: News worthy story.

It is December 2011 and I am checking my mail as usual and find a letter from the Texas Department of Public Safety. In this letter, I am told that my license will need to be renewed in less than 60 days, however there will be a HOLD on my license until I resolve a citation/failure to appear claim that has been placed against me.

This has to be a joke! I can’t even recall the last time I got a ticket. There’s a helpful website where I can see what this claim is and “take care of it”. Please note the date of this offense. JUNE OF 2001. A decade has gone by and here’s what I know that is true about ME, Janette Johanson:
1. I have never let a ticket go without being taken care of for fear of something like this or worse, being hauled into jail if I were ever pulled over again.
2. I have moved 3 times at least since 2001 and each time have ALWAYS updated my license with no question or problem.
3. I have been married and divorced and remarried again (not proud but its the facts) and that means I have changed my name on my license at least 3 times for that with no question or problem.
4. I just happened to get pulled over earlier this week for speeding as I was rushing to meet friends for lunch and was let go with a warning. No problem or jail time by the policeman who verified and checked my license.

Here are some other important details I find interesting but not limited to:

My call to the Court for more information and to double check that this wasn’t some sortof a joke or misunderstanding can be summarized:
-court says I told them I would take defensive driving and they have no record that I ever sent them my paperwork.
-court says they tried to contact me at the address listed at the time several times with no response.
-court says they will “help” me by reducing the fee to $130.
-court denies that they could have been at fault for losing paperwork that would have cleared this citation 10 YEARS AGO.
-court claims they have been trying to put a hold on my license for many years now.
-court says if I can prove I took defensive driving 10 YEARS AGO, then maybe, MAYBE it will help but no promises.

My defense:
In the 10 years since this ticket, I have received nothing until NOW, even though I have been a law abiding citizen who keeps her license updated as promptly as possible with an accurate address at all times. I printed of my ENTIRE driving record which doesn’t even show this citation listed. I do not believe I would have ever ignored an obligation and based on that, I have already paid for defensive driving and should not have to pay AGAIN to you for what appears to be your feeble attempt to try to claim money at the end of your calendar year. The average American citizen is told to keep records of their TAXES for 7 years for audit purposes. I believe most corporations follow this same rule of thumb. Most corporations were not keeping online documentation for historical reference 10 years ago, and I say that because Blockbuster only started tracking their defensive driving certificates within this 10 years. My bank doesn’t even keep records back that far for me to prove I paid for this course.

So… Dear local news stations please understand why I feel this is unfair and worth mentioning. I am up against the wall. I have no possible way to prove that I took care of this ticket. I do not recall where I would have taken defensive driving because it was 10 years ago and if I am not even expected to keep my taxes for more than 7 years, why would I ever have to be concerned with holding on to a defensive driving certificate? I do not think it is fair to expect a courthouse with many papers coming in and out to be 100% all of the time and realize we are all human so a mistake could have been made and my papers could have been lost. To contact me 10 years after the fact and try to get money from me or threaten my license which I understand could result in an invalid license, exceedingly high fines or even jail time is completely UNFAIR. This court has time on their side because all they have to do is say we never got anything from the defendant. What proof do they have for contacting me? Is there a certified letter showing I signed for their letter saying they never got anything? I doubt it! But I am suppose to bend over and just fork out $130-$245 and just take their word for it that I failed to do my part because I have absolutely NO POSSIBLE WAY to defend myself. That is outrageous, ludicrous and down right dirty. I am appalled that our state has not given their citizens a fair chance or means to protect themselves against possible extortion by their own court system that my taxes go towards to keep their doors open.

Sincerely,
Janette Johanson

12 Days of Christmas: 7

2011-12-07T12:12:00.001-06:00

For those of you who commented on yesterday’s post about the songs where I asked if you knew what movie “All I want for Christmas is you” reminds me of or came from brings me to my Day 7 post!

DAY 7: Snuggle up for some Movies!

My favorite Christmas movies are probably not even considered Christmas movies but just happen to come out around this time of year and have a theme of Christmas in them.

All I want for Christmas is you song reminds me of one of my favorites:

Love Actually.. it just seems to be that “feel good” movie where you can almost relate with every character or at least be rooting for a happy ending with each one. It actually makes my heart flutter to watch it.

My favorite scene by far is the poster board:

Next up is some humor and I can’t help myself but I think these are my top two!

Does anyone else feel compelled to say their favorite Christmas movie is:

You know, I’m going to be honest. I have said it for years, ever since I was a kid that this was a favorite but really—its not. I am not even 100% sure that I have seen it from beginning to end. I have seen the key scenes but its overplayed and a movie that I can easily get up and walk away from without feeling like I need to get back to watch it. I’m sure ya’ll might think I’m nuts for saying that—but I’m just layin’ it out there.

And while I’m at shocking you….. I also want to admit that I have never seen either of these and am okay with that:

I also have some late breaking news to update you on the

Remember how I said you get 1 point for every time you link up and a bonus entry for following all hosts and letting Emmy know? Well, you also will get an additional bonus point if you link up all 4 times!! Just another incentive! Are you getting your post ready or reviewing your Jan-Mar? You can link up with us through Wednesday of next week for it to count! Hugs!

12 Days of Christmas: 6

2011-12-06T10:36:00.001-06:00

Its only the 6th of December but it feels like this month is flying—anyone else feel that way?

Just a quick reminder—this Friday starts our Recap Extravaganza!! If you are new here or need a refresher, you can click HERE for more info!

DAY 6: I’m Singing, Oh yes I’m Singing!

I think we all have a song or two that we hear at Christmas time and it brings back memories or helps the spirit of the season feel more real. So I was thinking I might list my top 5 Holiday songs. I say Holiday because I am not sure that all of them would really be Christmas music…. more so seasonal I guess.

#1 MY FAVORITE: ‘All I want for Christmas is You’ by Mariah Carey.. this one also reminds me of one of my favorite movies of the season.. can you guess which one?

#2: Baby Its Cold Outside… I actually like the version from the movie Elf.. yeah, I said it. hah.

#3: Silent Night… especially love it when you are at church and they turn out all the lights and everyone is holding a candle singing.

#4 O Holy Night.. there’s just something moving about this song

#5 Drummer Boy… when I was a little pipsqueek, this was a favorite because I loved saying ‘pa rum pum pum pum’

Linkin up with gal pals Impulsive Addict & Seriously Shawn!

12 Days of Christmas: 5

2011-12-05T04:00:00.001-06:00

Gosh, in just 20 days it will be Christmas!! I really need to bust a move and get my Christmas shopping started and finished!! This is my last week home with Rayne before going back to work and sending her off to daycare with her brother and sister so I hope it goes SLLLLLLLOOOOOOOOOOOOW!!

DAY 5: Oh Christmas Tree

When I was growing up, we had a fake tree every year. I think people who had real trees were people on TV because I do not recall any friends or family who had a real tree. As you have noticed, all of the traditions I am sharing with you are all when Erik and I started dating and got married. Our first Christmas was with a real Christmas tree! Ahhh, it smells so good and looks so pretty! The best part is that you can leave most of the tinsel on the tree and totally trash it when you are done and just take down the ornaments and lights. Easy! Totally worth it!! So, every year we take a family picture at our tree stop and this year Ryan was more than excited to go pick ours out, please do not read his facial expression because it would appear that he felt otherwise, but I promise he was bouncing off the walls to go get it!

Every year I think most people pick colors for their decorations and tree. This year we are going with Red and Gold. Last year was Silver and Blue.

Maybe when the kids get older, we can literally go and chop down our own tree!! I’ve never done that and think it would be SO cool!! What colors are you decorating with and do you use a real tree?

12 Days of Christmas: 4

2011-12-04T21:02:00.001-06:00

DAY 4: Traditional Christmas Drill

Every year since Erik and I have been together, his Army unit holds a drill the first weekend in December that welcomes the family to join and they bring in a Christmas dinner for everyone. Weeks leading up to this meal, they ask the soldiers to give them age information about their children so that when the kids arrive, Santa can hand them an age appropriate toy.

This year, it was pouring down rain and I think I counted a car accident every mile on our way to the unit. People here don’t know how to drive in rain and I’ll admit, I’m a nervous nellie in it as well. You just never know what the person next to you might do. So, we missed seeing Santa this year as he had other children to visit but he did leave Erik toys to give the kiddo’s. We still stick with our main Santa visit that I told you about on Day 1.

Here are a few pictures from our yearly Christmas party, Army Style. They cater in a turkey and ham dinner.. do a door prize with several prizes to be won, set up bounce houses for the kids as well as basketball hoops to play with. This happens to be an Aviation Unit where the kids can also see the vehicles and helicopters that they work with. There is no shortage of fun for them!

Here the kiddo’s are admiring their Daddy in formation.

12 Days of Christmas: 3

2011-12-03T17:55:00.001-06:00

DAY 3: Christmas foods I look forward to & remember.

When I was a kid growing up on Christmas morning, you could always smell the cinnamon rolls that my Mom made from scratch. She would spend hours in the kitchen getting the bread to rise and I’d sit close by to watch as she lined it with sugar and cinnamon and rolled them all up to put in a cupcake pan. It was a recipe my Grandmother taught her and I watched it so many times that I was SURE there was no reason to write it down. One day when my Grandmother was making a batch, I told her I would write down a few key notes to remind me of the recipe so I could make it when I moved out on my own and started a family. Sadly my Grandmother passed away and I grew apart from my Mother and my scribbled short hand notes make no sense to me at all. Those will always be apart of my happiest memories.

When Erik and I got married and started our family, I found a couple of recipes to try and incorporated these into OUR family tradition. Now, I have to admit, these are NOT my personal recipes….for anyone who knows me, cooking is not my forte.
Try this one out though—its really delicious!

Hashbrown Quiche

3 cups, shredded frozen hash browns, thawed and drained
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter, melted
3 large eggs, beaten
1 cup half-and-half
3/4 cup diced cooked ham

Add any amount of cut up bacon (optional)
1/2 cup diced green onions
1 cup shredded Cheddar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
Gently press the drained hash browns between paper towels to dry them as best as possible. In a 9-inch pie plate, toss the hash browns with the melted butter into the plate. Press them into the bottom and up the sides to form a crust. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and starting to crisp.
Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. When the hash brown crust is ready pour the egg mixture over it and return to the oven.
Lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees F and bake for about 30 minutes until the quiche is light golden brown on top and puffed.

AND FINALLY…. I lean on Betty a lil’ for this yummy side item!

12 Days of Christmas: 2

2011-12-02T11:33:00.001-06:00

Its my 12 Days of Christmas Day 2!

Before I started writing, I kept thinking about the song 12 days of Christmas and now I’ve got that darn song stuck in my head…

“On the 2nd Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me….”

Are you singing it now? Thank me later.

DAY 2: How I found out about Santa.

Growing up as an only child, I never had to worry about siblings trying to ruin Christmas or Santa for me. I overheard friends at school saying different things but I didn’t want to believe any of them. These are the same people who tried to tell me that the Boogie Man was real… COME ON! What do they know!?

Christmas mornings were by far the most exciting moments I can remember. Falling asleep at night was a mission so that I could hurry up and wake up. I have memories of waking up at 5am some mornings and running into my parents room to wake them up so they could come with me to see what Santa brought!! I have no idea why I didn’t just go look myself, but I was a little chicken about accidentally walking in on Santa if he happened to be running late stopping at my house and didn’t want to scare him off.

When I was about 8 years old, we took a driving trip to visit our family in Mississippi for Christmas. Santa was going to have to pay special attention to locate me since I was not going to be home, although I did have hopes that he would still show up there and leave me something anyway. During our visit, I went with my Dad to go ~~play~~ watch a game of tennis with one of my cousins. The game was finally over and to be extra helpful (because Santa is watching) I offered to take the racquets and balls to the car and put them in the trunk.

And there it was….. an Alf doll. I convinced myself that it was just a doll that my folks hadn’t wrapped yet and deeply prayed and wished that I wouldn’t wake up and find him sitting out among my Santa spread.

I remember hesitating to go in the room. All of my excitement turned to nervousness and fear. Did my friends at school REALLY know the truth???

I turned the corner and there he sat. Talk about the air being let out of my balloon. Biggest mistake I made was telling my parents that I knew because every Christmas after that was a morning I woke up with no remnants of Santa and no reason to wake up early… it was just another morning. My advice to young kids is—if you do find out, DON”T TELL ANYONE!! Make your parents play Santa AS LONG AS YOU CAN!!!!

I hope Santa lives for a longtime in my house… its just the beginning!

Let’s Recap!

2011-12-02T04:00:00.001-06:00

Hey ya’ll! I wanted to give you the details for the fun Recap party happening here starting Dec. 9th! You might recall my post HERE giving some introductory information about this cute lil’ button….

So here is the scoop!!! What is the 2011 Review Extravaganza?
It is your chance to write up some posts and recap what happened during the year. You can put your favorite pictures, tell your favorite stories, link back to your favorite posts, however you want. We have all had months where we fell into a slump but there is still a chance for you to share what you were doing even if you didn’t blog about it during the recap months.

Starting next Friday- you can come here or to any of the other bloggers hosting this extravaganza and link up your post. You only need to link up at one location as it will show up on each of the lists.

Friday the 9th recap January, February and March.
Friday the 16th recap of April, May and June.
Friday the 23rd recap of July, August and September.
Friday the 30th recap of October, November and December.

By the time it is December's recap, December will be practically over. You DO NOT have to write your post on Friday, you can write it any day that week, that is just the day to link up. And you will have a few extra days to link up- until Wednesday.

The nitty gritty:
1. Link your post only and not just your blog. (If you need help, I’m happy to do so).
2. You gain a point (entry) EVERY time you link up and include our button!! That is a total of 4 possible entries.
3. EXTRA EXTRA!!!! This is the most critical piece of info: If you are following ALL of the hosts, you will need to leave a comment on EMMY’S post dated 12/2/11 telling her you are following all to gain this extra point. She’s nice enough to keep track of it all (as well as creating this whole fun recap).

When all is said and done, random.org do the dirty work and pick a winner!!

Each of the hosts- ALL 8 of us will personally pick a present for the winner- so imagine getting 8 packages filled with something just for you!! We didn’t want to pick random gifts to give away without knowing the winner and trying to make it as special for that person as much as we could.

Please take a moment to stop by and visit the hosts, follow these fab gals and lets see what you’ve been up to this year!!

Emmy Mom

California Girl

Em of Emilisq

Grumpy Grateful Mom

Impulsive Addict

Janette of Johanson Journey

MiMi Living in France

Runner Mom

All great ladies you should definitely read! So to break it down really simply

Link up each Friday with your recap-- you will have between Friday to the following Tuesday to link up for it to count for points
Receive 1 point for every week you link up -button must be in your post (4 possible)
Receive 1 bonus point for following all of the hosts blog (1 pt) -leave a comment stating you are following on Emmy’s 12/2/11 post!
If you are the winner receive 8 gifts picked just for you!

Any questions feel free to ask as we want this to be a great experience for everyone! So get your recaps ready and join in next Friday for the fun!

12 Days of Christmas!

2011-12-01T09:55:00.001-06:00

Well friends, today marks not only the 1st of December but also a 12 day count down until I return to work and say goodbye to my days at home on maternity leave with my newest baby Rayne. <sniff> Since I have 12 days until I return, I figured I’d use these as my 12 days of Christmas because once I start back to work, my free time to get things done will be obsolete.

DAY 1: Christmas Family Traditions (My top 3)

Every year we go and see Santa and get an updated picture and share our wish list. I think what makes this so special is that the Santa you see in the photo is the same Santa EVERY year. He really looks the part and this might sound crazy but he seems young enough that he might last through my kids childhood to be the Santa they see year after year! Fingers crossed! This place is pretty neat because you log in online to “get in line” and it will text you where you are in line so that you don’t have to stand out in the cold. Last year I logged in from home, had time to drive there and walk right in! I love technology! I am a bit of a Hallmark junkie. When Erik and I first met and started dating, I had started collecting Hallmark ornaments. Ever since our first Christmas together, we have given each other an ornament each year in our stockings. When we started having children, we passed this on to them too! Every year they will get 1 new ornament to add to their collection. I keep their ornaments separate for storage in the hopes that when they grow up, they will have a bin full of memories and enough ornaments to get their first tree started when they begin their families. Above is just a small glimpse of my collection! I can’t help but keep the boxes they came in which is a slight pain when putting them up and taking them down but I still love them! Below is an example of the storage I use for each kiddo!
I LOVE Christmas cards!! I love sending them and receiving them! Its the most fun thing of the entire year!! It makes checking the mail so exciting!! I have yet to throw any of them away that contain family pictures on them because it is so fun to go back and see how my friends and family have changed over the years. I take this very seriously. I order enough cards to send out to everyone I know including the President of the United States and even our former President George W. I have ours on order and I can’t wait to get them out in the mail and once I send them out, I’ve got a Christmas video to share of all our family pictures!! So exciting!!!

What are your traditions!?

Blog Tour

2011-11-30T04:00:00.000-06:00

Hey ya’ll! I feel like my blog is getting super busy looking and I’m trying to keep it simple but don’t want to leave anything out. In case you are cross eyed by all of the buttons and side accessories, I wanted to point out a few things.

Right side:

I added a button over there ---> if you want to “Like” my blog page on Facebook! Don’t be shy! If it gets out of hand you can hide it later. If you are a secret reader, its okay to come forward now.
Social Spark Button is there to let you know that I publish posts for advertisers. You may have seen a few in the past and I can’t believe they actually pay me to do, but they do….. and you can too! Click it if you want to earn money on your blog. $15 bucks here and there or more can add up to a new pair of sassy shoes or something!
I am also a Pinterest addict and have given a link for you to follow me there and if you aren’t already on there, please tell me so I can get you an invite to join.
Lastly, the follow me button which I think ya’ll already know about but just wanted to take a second to THANK YOU for those who have clicked and keep coming back. I haven’t been the best at blog hopping but am very appreciative of those who stop by and let me know.

Left side:

There is a button on the left that hopefully you are noticing that starts the 9th of December where you can link up to recap this amazing year and have a chance to win something and meet other bloggers. Click HERE for more info.
There is a blog listing of friends I know in real life that have blogs and of course those that I wish I knew and if you don’t know any of them, I encourage you to stop by and visit them.

On another note…. I bought a blog book. WHAT!? Yes a blog book. It is a ‘Make your Blog better’ kind of a book and it has a challenge each day to help you. The first one asks for my blog’s elevator pitch. Its a short lil’ description of my blog that people notice when they first find me that sums up my blog so they know what its about. I don’t know how true mine is but wanted to see if you agree with it:

Here goes….

'Where Family, Friends, Crafting and Random Thoughts Collide'

Do you think that’s fitting for my blog? If not, how would you sum it up?

Christmas Crafts

2011-11-29T12:59:00.001-06:00

I got lazy and did a video blog today linking up with some fun friends to tell ya’ll more about my obsession, aka Christmas crafts. Thought I’d shake it up a bit!

Elf Antics….

2011-11-28T16:34:00.001-06:00

You might recall my post introducing you to Josh, our Christmas Elf who joined us just before Thanksgiving. Friday night we recorded the Elf on the Shelf movie which was a 15 minute story when you take out commercials that we have watched about 639 times since it aired at 7:00pm that night.

Our elf is having an identity crisis. He was named Josh and we even went online and got an adoption certificate for him with his name on it. About a week after we had him, Ryan informed us that his name was no longer Josh. It is now George.

After our 347th time of watching the Elf on the Shelf show, our George has now turned to Chippy. The young boy in the show named his elf Chippy so it was only natural that ours would need a new name. Poor guy.

Chippy is making his rounds in our house, although it is sometimes tough to remember to move him and keeping his magic alive. What I mean by that is… Ryan has been a toot. He has moments of a typical 4 year old that drive me to want to drink but I hope and pray that Chippy will help cure the moment.

I was explaining to Ryan this weekend that if he did not stop acting this way, then I was going to walk over to Chippy and touch him and take away his magic so that he can’t fly back to see Santa at night which meant he wouldn’t know if Ryan was a good boy or a bad boy.

If it were me… I’d have been freaking out!! DO NOT TOUCH THE ELF!!! No one wants the Elf to lose its magic!!

Ryan’s response, “Go ahead.. touch it!”….. ‘come on Mommy, TOUCH IT!”

I said No…. and grumbled under my breath ‘darn it’…. It didn’t phase him. Lil’ toot!

So, Erik took Ryan with him to the store and while he was gone, I decided to make an unexpected change of location to see if Ryan would notice. It didn’t take him long to realize he was missing from his spot when he got home. Of course I acted surprised that he moved and my only explanation was that Chippy must have thought your behavior was worth telling Santa ASAP and went and told him, or he wanted to get a better look at you in his new spot! Ryan was amazed.

So, here are a few other ideas I found that I’m going to try:

Tricky Elf
Use a roll of toilet paper to “TP” your Christmas tree or child’s room and put the empty roll in your elf’s arms.

Snow Angel
Sprinkle flour on the countertop and move your elf’s legs to simulate a snow angel.

Candy OD
Empty a bag of candy (M&Ms perhaps) around your elf and put the empty bag in his arms.

Fun with Friends
Set a scene with the elf hanging out with your child’s favorite stuffed animals. They can play a board game or have a tea party.

Red Nose Hello
Leave a note on the kitchen table in the morning to read from the Elf saying how happy he/she is to be there and that Rudolf sends his love! (In the night put red on the tip of your child’s nose) Tell them to look in the mirror! The Elf put it on their nose!

Wish me luck! If you have an Elf, what ideas have you used?

How to eat a donut

2011-11-26T10:57:00.001-06:00

I’m a little quirky when it comes to eating certain foods. When I was a kid, I used to pick off all of the meat and cheese of my pizza and eat just the bread. I also used to peel the hamburger out of my McDonald’s Happy meal and leave only the cheese and bread to have a grilled cheese. I thought this quirky behavior was “just me”.

Once a week, we take the kids to get donut holes on the way to school. Ryan always gets glazed and Reese gets chocolate covered. We knew Reese liked chocolate but after a closer look—she was literally eating ONLY the chocolate! Out of 12 donut holes, all of them were missing the chocolate tops and the bottoms were thrown back in the bag.

I stopped this morning to get some donuts and bring them back to the house for everyone and witnessed it myself!

And then…. Erik pointed out that she learned this from me! WHAT!? No way. I do not destroy my donuts…. well…… maybe I do.

In my defense, this is truly the best way to eat a donut! I encourage you all to try this if you like chocolate covered donuts. Peal the bottom off all around. It is the softest donut EVER!! Tastes so much better and 1/2 the fat! hah!
Like Mother, Like Daughter… so cute!

Happy Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-24T04:00:00.000-06:00

I was trying to think of something fun to help sass up our Thanksgiving table. With so many possible crafts to try, I decided to try my hand at creating name plates for each table setting.
Lets get started!
Supplies:
Chalkboard spray paint
Chalk
Feathers
Wooden shape of your choice
Hot Glue
Sissors
Candy Sticks (you might have a better idea that this)

Step 1: Spray paint your wooden pieces. I did a couple of coats just to be an over achiever… hah.
Step 2: Admire your spray painting skills—first time I haven’t had drips of paint dried to a project! (skip this step if you are already a spray paint pro)

Step 3: You will rub the side of the chalk along your surface (per the instructions on the chalkboard paint)

Step 4: Rub off the chalk to see the surface you will be writing on~

Step 5: Select the colors you want for your feathers and glue them on the backside of your wood.
Step 6: I also glued another wooden disc on the back so that it was the same on both sides. In addition, I used candy sticks and broke them apart to create my ‘stand’, but there are probably better ways to do this. Add a glob of glue, and add your sticks in a triangle position.
Step 7: Based on my candy sticks as my stand, I had to find something to prop them up while they dried in place.
Step 8: Add the names of your guests!
Enjoy your festive name plates for Thanksgiving!

Wishing all of you a Happy Thanksgiving!! I’m so thankful for my family & friends and everything that God has provided! God Bless ya’ll!! xoxo

Clean up Crew of One

2011-11-23T12:16:00.001-06:00

It is rare for you to come into my house and find me barefoot. I have learned in the past four years of having children and the last nine years of having a dog that your floors will never be clean again.

I have dust bunnies that have died and given birth to multiples ...scattered on the edges of my rooms that appear out of no where. Erik is completely blind to the fur balls, even though they are big and could probably be classified in the Texas tumbleweed category. My dog also tends to drip water from her chin after getting a slurp or two from her water bowl and lets not forget the occasional drool from begging. I have slipped on these tiny drops on the floor and so have the kids.

I have also found that the juice box making companies and Capri Sun makers have it out for us parents. My four year old son knows not to 'squeeze' the box or the bag knowing that it spills out of the hole or the straw all over the floor. I cannot explain this to my one year old who cannot be denied a juice box when her brother is carrying his around right in front of her face. She has not mastered the 'no squeezie' tactic. So, I am also stepping in juice spills which really grosses me out on bare feet.

Reese has become very close with our fur ball, water chin dripping, drool hound Mackie and every meal she has--- she shares.

Exhibit A. The “WHAT?” look of “I didn’t do anything!”
Exhibit B. The innocent smile.
Exhibit C. The evidence!
Exhibit D. The ‘I really think this is funny’ look!
Exhibit E. The willing and happy clean up crew of One very lucky dog who has gained more weight since Reese was born than I’ve ever seen!
Can you blame me for always wearing socks and shoes now!?
This happens after EVERY MEAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Won’t Wanna Miss it!

2011-11-21T10:36:00.001-06:00

Have you seen this button around the blog-sphere or here on my blog? (by the way, I am loving this font!)

What is the 2011 Review Extravaganza? It is your chance to write up some posts and recap what happened throughout the year. You can put your favorite pictures, tell your favorite stories, link back to your favorite posts, really however you want to do it. And just in case you had some slow months, we will be reviewing three months at a time. This will begin Friday, December 9th.

Friday the 9th recap January, February and March. Friday the 16th recap of April, May and June.
Friday the 23rd recap of July, August and September. Friday the 30th recap of October, November and December.

You can see Emmy Mom’s (who graciously included me in this years RE) first review by clicking here if you want an idea of how to do it.

Towards the end of the year, we all are running around like chickens trying to get food prepared and gifts purchased and if you are like me, you feel like you are neglecting your blog or are in a rut…. This is a great way to reminisce over the year as you get ready to start your New 2012 Year!!

Need some encouragement? Well, this fun review will also be tied to a PRIZE!! There will be 8 prizes!!! One from each of the hosts!!!! And how do you win? Every week that you link up with your review you get a point- and the more points you have the more time your name is thrown into the hat. Next week I will have more information and ways for you to meet the other hosts incase you aren’t already a fan of theirs!

Set your Fridays in December aside!! Lets all share in the memories we have created this year!! I know my family is always asking me for a blurb about what the Johanson’s have been up to for the year, so this is my Christmas letter, if you will, just broken down by months!! :)

xoxo…

Puppies or Babies!?

2011-11-17T21:01:00.001-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Puppies vs. Babies for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Calling all readers to make a stand once and for all! Who is cuter? Your baby or your puppy? Its time to get your opinion out there!!

When I was just a single girl out in the world and only had a dog, I would have voted hands down for my puppy to be the cutest. I would have never believed that my dog would have taken a back seat to my kids but it is so true-- it happens and now I would pick my kiddo's first!

Where am I going with all this mumbo babble? Well, Animal planet is hosting a poll to find out what you think! They are asking people to come out and vote for cutest puppy or cutest baby to see who infact is the cutest!! Puppies vs. Babies This is such a toughy!!!

Which side are you on?? Who would you vote for? Your baby or a puppy?? You have from now until November 23rd to get your vote in!! Let them hear you!! It really is a tough one because there are some adorable baby faces and of course those lil' fur balls always pull at my heart strings!

Puppies vs. Babies online contest

Go Vote and leave a comment letting me know which you picked!

GO TEAM BABY!!

A little happy!

2011-11-17T16:03:00.001-06:00

Just for the record I wanted to show ya’ll that my painting method does work! Just a lil’ bath and we’ve got pretty toes!

I was thinking about my blog and all of the blog friends I have made along the way and can’t imagine my life without ya’ll. I’m so thankful that I had children that inspired me to start a blog so that I could meet such wonderful people! One of those fabulous gals happens to be Amy from Nine Ninety One. Amy surprised me with a little snail mail that was actually for Rayne and it meant SOO much to me!! More importantly, SHE MADE IT!! Ya’ll know how much personalized things mean to me so this hit home!! I had a reason to do a photo shoot for Rayne!! Thank you so much Amy!! xoxo
Check out this adorable outfit!

I’m in love with her eyes and sweet baby lips!! So cute!!
I’m also excited because Rayne is getting a little bit closer to holding her head steady! I feel so guilty just laying her on the play mat with things dangling over her head, so I wrapped her tummy with a thick blanket and put her in the exer-saucer for a few minutes to change it up a bit. Granted her head was still bobbin’ around a bit, she was definitely interested in her new surroundings.

Linking up with a meme hosted by Kmama of the Daily Dribbles & Emmy

On my mind…

2011-11-15T12:32:00.001-06:00

I think its safe to say that most of us have gotten a pedicure or manicure at a nail salon, right? I just went this past weekend with a friend to get a pedicure that I swear was the best one I’ve ever had. I think it was due to the fact that I paid for an extended massage because lets face it--- that’s the best part of a pedicure (minus the food scrub that tickles me to tears).

I was reflecting on past pedicures I’ve received and can remember a time or two (probably more) that I’ve left the place looking closely at my nails and noticing that they didn’t even paint the whole thing. It was like they ignored the edges or something. Has this happened to you!? If I see it on my finger nails, I usually mention it to them before I leave but when its on your feet, you can’t really see all that close and I hate to make a ruckus after they’ve worked so hard.

Let’s face it—it is the pitts to spend $25 or more on a pedicure and go home unhappy.

I have a whole new respect for those men and women who work at nail salons and bust their butts to keep my feet looking decent, even if they miss the edges…… because clearly I’m no painting pro!!! See for yourself!!

Yes, that would be paint all over her toes but its safe to say that I painted all of her nail and didn’t miss the edges!! This is my method of painting my lil’ girls toe nails. The wild painting on her skin always comes off at bathtime leaving them with perfectly painted toes…

For now… I’m just thankful my girls can’t complain about my paint job! Those would be Rayne’s lil’ 8 week old tootsies above. They will match her older sister Reese who had hers painted during a nap this past weekend! They are red for the upcoming holidays!

I’m also thankful that my kiddos have endured my handprint obsession.. I think I’m done for now…. here’s what we’ve made.
Above are Rayne’s footprints along the bottom which make the ‘grass’, Reese’s 2 hands on the left and Ryan’s hand on the right to make the turkey’s trotting along!

Above is what I showed ya’ll last week… I just used colorful ribbon to tie them together and make them 1piece for wall art in our kitchen!
This was my attempt at making Christmas Trees out of my kiddo’s feet and it is not complete.. I’m still trying to decide how to jazz them up. Maybe adding a Christmas poem, Santa’s wish list or strings of lights made with their finger prints… Any suggestions?

Finally, our reindeer prints. Ryan and Rayne have blue eyes and Reese’s eyes are looking more brown, so I coordinated the reindeer to match their eyes. At least for now Rayne’s eyes are blue.. we’ll see if they change.

Linking up with some fun gals!!

Day at the Park!

2011-11-14T14:28:00.001-06:00

Its mid November and we are having temperatures in the 80’s so hitting up the park behind our house is on the top of the list to do!

Rayne spent the time in the stroller with the lid covering her. I figured the fresh air would be good for her because she has been fighting a cold for the past two weeks. We are on the mends now with antibiotics for an ear infection and breathing treatments for bronchitis. So sad when lil’ babies get sick.
The kids enjoyed the swings and the slides….

They also enjoyed playing hide & seek…. Where could Daddy be!??!

The best part of the day is just getting to spend time together as a family!

And a side note—last Wednesday I told ya’ll about a $30 FREE deal that ends November 16th HERE, and I just want ya’ll to know that I received my item on Saturday!! Talk about quick turn around and GREAT QUALITY!!! I LOVE IT!!!

And… I’m in LOVE with this idea—my friend Paige wrote a blog post HERE about a party she had!!! BRILLIANT IDEA!!!
intrest PARTY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
No—its not another link up party for blogs… it was to bring people together to make something they have pinned on pinterest!! CLEVER!!! People did demo’s of their crafts and brought food for everyone to try!! Why didn’t I think of this!!?? Doesn’t this sound fun!?

Love the Military

2011-11-12T21:35:00.001-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of DollarGeneral for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

As you all know, my husband Erik is in the Army and I am a big supporter of our armed forces! It takes a lot of courage to walk in the doors and put your name down in writing to defend and protect your country! I look around and see so many friends and family who are also loyal supporters and think that you will find that this is the perfect time to Thank a Soldier for their dedication and hard work on this Veteran's Day!

On Saturday November 11th, the Dollar General stores will be offering 10% off for Veterans, Active Military and their families. This is an in-store, no coupon needed discount!

For those supporters of the military, you are also being thanked and the Dollar General stores are offering an online discount to celebrate Veteran's Day. Just use the code 'VETERANSDAY' when you check out online! Dollar General's Veteran's Day discount. This online deal goes from the 11th through the 13th!

You can go to their site here: http://www2.dollargeneral.com/Ads-and-Promos/Salute-the-Troops/Pages/index.aspx

If you have a video you would like to post to support and thank the troops, you can do so by going to the Dollar Generals Facebook page --> Facebook.

There are also care packages for the troops that are available with FREE shipping!! You can't pass this up!

Thank you to all the soldiers current and past for all that you do and have done for our country!!

GOD BLESS!!

Proud Momma

2011-11-10T15:30:00.001-06:00

Linking up with Emmy & Kmama of the Daily Dribbles for Proud Mommy Moments!

This is a short and sweet post just to say how proud and thankful I am to have had three healthy babies and I adore looking back on pictures of them as babies. Its amazing how much they look alike at such an early age and grow into such different personalities and looks!!

They all seem to have the same nose which Erik and I say is the Family nose of our kiddo’s.. not sure whose nose it is but its cute!

Warms my heart looking at them!

The picture above is Reese, Ryan and Rayne (in that order).

Do they look alike to you?

Now that’s a deal!

2011-11-09T14:59:00.001-06:00

I never meant for my blog to become a place to announce deals I have found online but this one was too good not to share. You might already know about it, so if you do, sorry for the repeat info.

I am a big fan of the blog HOW DOES SHE? I am such a fan that I signed up for their newsletters via email so I can find out the latest news from them on their site.

I got an email today that peeked my interest!! They are celebrating 2 years of blogging success and a company they have trusted and used is giving their readers a $30 gift to use on their site!

THIRTY DOLLARS PEOPLE!

I had never heard of the Paper Coterie but now I can see why HOW DOES SHE? loves them so much!!

I quickly ran over to their site and was so excited!! Its personalized, it includes pictures and those two things put together make me ONE.HAPPY.GIRL!! This happy girl went through the thought of creating magical and timeless gifts to give family and then I became a selfish happy girl because I ended up buying something for myself! HA! It happens to the best of us! Couldn’t help myself!

Here’s what I made and got!! And I’m showing you my final total so you can see that you truly do get $30 towards your purchase and might I also mention that most of their products are less than $30, so I only paid shipping!

This is a 30x20 Polaroid poster that is put on breathable fabric that can stick to any surface and restick if you have to move it! I put on the top right (but the preview folds the paper down) “Heart of the Johanson Journey” and kept their “Love you…” on the bottom right.
Proof its legit!

I really was impressed by their selection and styles!! I’ll be back there for sure!!

Bottom line… go get this deal while its hot—it expires NOVEMBER 16th!!
Being a fan of How Does She? proves to be well worth the extra email!

All Memed Out!

2011-11-08T09:10:00.001-06:00

So yesterday I was telling ya’ll I needed help and tips for a successful Black Friday shopping spree… it seems most of us are not really Black Friday shoppers. For anyone who is interested, my friend Paige gives a chart to help break down how stores price match, HERE.

Another blog I like to follow is In This Wonderful Life and Megan had a post about her November sponsors with awesome deals, just see for yourself HERE!

This could be a long post because I am memin’ out today… its the best of all things great!

So speaking of Christmas, I’ve been thinking about how my wish list is tad bit extreme. All of the items I keep thinking I want are all the high priced items! I’m dreaming big and the key word is ‘dreaming’ and that’s why I’m okay with sharing it… Now why can’t these be on Black Friday sales?
*A new stove top that is flat
*A Silhouette Cameo
*Iphone 4S
*Ipad2
*Wii
*Xbox360 with Kinect + games
*gas fireplace logs

In other news…I’m obsessed with my kids handprints and footprints. I don’t know why but I think its the most timeless and precious art that you can make with a child. I am not 100% done with this and how I plan to display it but wanted to show you a fun idea I saw on Google images… I made a feather fan with my kids hands and the body with their feet and drew on the beak, eyes and dangly-thing.. Too fun!!

And with the theme above of Thanksgiving, I thought I’d mention a few things I am thankful for!
*Thankful that Reese likes Chocolate because Ryan can’t stand it and I need a chocolate lover to sneak away with to get sweets!!*Thankful for my sweet loving husband and especially love it when he returns home from Army drill without his goatee ( love how he looks with and without) *Thankful that Ryan and Reese play so well together and you can tell how much they love one another.

*Thankful that my son knows how to spell his name and even more proud that he knows how to write it on his own!! 4 years old—not sure if I could do that at his age!

*Thankful that we get response letters from the White House welcoming our daughter to the world in a hand written envelope and signed by the President & his wife.
*Thankful for the time I get to spend with our sweet itty bitty baby Rayne and pray the next 4 weeks goes super slow so I can savor this time before going back to work!
Linking up with the following crowd:

Black Friday Tips

2011-11-07T12:19:00.001-06:00

Do you realize that Black Friday is 18 days away? Christmas is 48 days away! WHOA! I have to admit, I have NEVER experienced Black Friday. The idea of it always gets me excited and I’d like to attempt it but when it comes down to it… I have no idea how to be a successful Black Friday shopper.

There has to be a method to the madness or else people wouldn’t do it, right?

So.. why not collect tips from all of you pro’s to help me and others out!? I know its sortof a late notice link party to join, but I’ll do this each Monday until the week of Christmas so that we can all help each other out!

I am linking up a friend of mine in my first link party to get the ball rolling as she has already started trying to help people out!

PLEASE link up and tell us your secrets! If you have already written your post today, its okay—you can write another one or leave a comment! Share the deals you have found!

*Est. 5.26.07*

Valentine’s Day Charmer

Valentine’s is under way..

LOST

Talking Tuesday

Food Facts

a light read

So, I leave you now with the same link to go read (when you have time of course) and hope you enjoy her writing and post as much as I did and I’m sure a lot of other mom’s out there can associate with.

Dear Blog Friends

Wednesday Facts

What we see…

HIGHLIGHTS

Superstitious

PYP WINNER!!

Carpool Insights

Show US Your Plum {Contest}

So Much to Say

Plum Crazy!

How to do a give away!

Husbands Helpful Tips 2

Husbands Helpful Tips 1

Q4 2011

Its a Challenge

I think I’m back

TEST

Merry Christmas 2011

Q3 2011 Recap

Christmas Spirit

Inquiring minds want to know!

What’s your Morning Routine?

Immersion

Q2-2011 Recap

Lets Share!

Get it while its hot!!

Christmas Tutorials

Oops!

First Quarter

Statute of Limitations

12 Days of Christmas: 7

12 Days of Christmas: 6

12 Days of Christmas: 5

12 Days of Christmas: 4

12 Days of Christmas: 3

Hashbrown Quiche

12 Days of Christmas: 2

Let’s Recap!

12 Days of Christmas!

Blog Tour

Christmas Crafts

Elf Antics….

How to eat a donut

Happy Thanksgiving 2011

Clean up Crew of One

Won’t Wanna Miss it!

Puppies or Babies!?

A little happy!

On my mind…

Day at the Park!

Love the Military

Proud Momma

Now that’s a deal!

All Memed Out!

Black Friday Tips

Est. 5.26.07