Cuddly Crochet

Not long ago, Lola was working on some cute presents. Baby Shower gifts. But to me, the little animals, would be perfect for my kiddos! When I asked her, where she got the patterns, she immediately pulled out this book!



Oh, goodness! These are cute patterns. And this book is AMAZING! I just can't find it anywhere. And that makes me sad. I was shocked, to find it out of stock, on Amazon. I guess, I just have to keep searching for it...

~Manders

Bones

I've waited and waited. And waited some more! I've been so patient! And Monday night, didn't disappoint! Not one bit!!



Did anyone else catch Bones? It was so good! And I hope this means, a few more seasons. :) I can't wait to see how Bones, really interacts with Baby Christine.

Funny thing is, I never watched this show. Not until about a year ago. When Lola got me hooked. Then I suddenly had to watch every episode. I've seen them all twice! And now, I'm hooked! What's one of your favorite, must see TV shows?

~Manders

Crochet Along: Week 6

Welcome Back! It's our last week,of this Crochet Along. And I for one, am very excited! How about you? Our goal for the week, is the edging. :) That's it! And we're done with our Bunny Blankets!!!

Lola has been working on 2 separate blankets. And finished 1, over the weekend. Lola will be posting some tips, for the edging today. I'd definitely go over to her blog, to read up. I'm sure it will be helpful, before you start your edging.



This has been a very fun project to work on! And I can't wait, to wrap up my blanket, for a precious new baby! Hopefully, very soon, Lola and I will get another Crochet Along started. If you're interested, come back soon. Please send us your project ideas! We'd love to hear all about them. Now, all that's left, is to finish our blankets. And enjoy them! Thanks for all the fun! :)

~Manders

New in 2012: Bunny Cake

My new thing this week, was making this Bunny Cake. I'm not a "fancy" baker. I make cupcakes, pies, cookies, cakes, etc. But nothing too fancy. Not shaped. Not bunnies. No fancy piping.

But this week, a few friends and I, decided to meet for a "Lunch and Play Date." For us and our kids. And I wanted to make something fun. Interesting. And something "Spring-y."

Lola pointed me to this recipe. Which was amazing! Now I feel like, I should have been doing this years ago! There were a few "challenging" things, but it was overall super easy! How could it not be? You use a box cake, and store bought frosting!



The thing I learned about making this cake was, to be a little patient. :) And to bake it, when my kiddos were napping. That worked perfectly! After I baked the cake, and "shaped it," I stuck it in the freezer. Just like the instructions said. It made frosting, and decorating it, so much easier!

Now that I've tackled one cake, I might try something else! I don't know. Something fun for Mother's Day. But I know one thing, I'll definitely be baking this cake, for Easter. I'm sure my family will enjoy it!

~Manders

Crochet Along: Week 5

Hi Crochet Along Pals! How are your blankets going? Mine is going well. I'm actually +5 rows right now. I got lots of crocheting done, while traveling this weekend. :)

This week is big! We're working on rows 67-87. That's our last "bunny block!" Essentially, the same set of work, that we did Week 3. At the end of this week, we'll be done with the blocks!



I'm very excited. Actually, the baby I'm making this for, is almost here. So I better get working! Life has just been so busy. Literally, the second half of March, is always crazy for us! Our 3 kids have birthdays. We have a lot of traveling. And many of our friends' kids have birthdays too! Hopefully, I get my blanket finished. :)

~Manders

Happy Birthday Lola!

Today is a very special day. It's Lola's birthday! And we wanted to wish her a very Happy Birthday! Lola is very special to our family. She's an amazing woman, musician, Nana, friend, doctor, student, cook, baker, crafter, and did I mention best friend. :) We hope that Lola has an amazing day! Because she deserves it, more than anyone else that I know! Happy Birthday Lola! May all your dreams and wishes come true!

~Billy, Manders, Lauren, Abby, and Robbie

Bedroom Ideas

With our "Big Girl," turning 5 yesterday, we've been wanting to do something. Something special! Lauren has pretty much, had the same room, for 5 years. It's beautiful! Lola designed it for us. Sewed everything! Cari painted beautiful murals.

But Lauren is 5 years old. And we think, it's about time, that she got a "Big Girl" room. Something more special. More Lauren. So we talked to Joe. A good friend of ours. Who is also a very talented carpenter! And Lola. A very talented designer, and organizer! We've decided, to give Lauren, a new bedroom.

So I've done a little research. A little digging around. With Lauren a bit. And a bit on my own. And this, is what we've come up with, so far.



Maybe something "Fairy Tale" inspired! Believe it or not, Billy and Joe found this. Lauren LOVES it! And from what Joe told us, this is very doable!



How about a Cinderella carriage? Maybe a little over the top for us! But this definitely reminded me of Sarita!



How about this? Much more Lauren's style! But honestly, would my daughter, ever get rest? Would she sleep? Or would she want to play all night?



This is the same idea, but I think is a little more "sleep friendly." A place that Lauren, could actually sleep! But still have some fun in. :)



Or should we go with something more "Grown Up?" Something that Lauren can "grow into." That say, in 5 or 10 years, she can still use.

So many decisions! But our Big Girl deserves it! We might not know, what the details are. What "theme" we will go with. But Lauren did tell me, it's definitely going to be pink! Oh sweet girl! I wouldn't have thought differently. This from the girl, who dreamt of pink Christmas trees!

What do you think? Are we crazy? Do you have any ideas? I do know, it's not going to be as detailed, as Miss Emma's Snow White room. But it will be something special. Just for Lauren!

~Manders

Crochet Along: Week 4

Hi Crochet Friends! How are you doing? Our blankets are halfway done! I'm so excited! Even my husband commented on my blanket. Saying that I should make one, for our house. :)

This week, our goal is to work on rows 46-66. We'll have 3 "bunny blocks" by next Sunday! What makes me more excited is, I don't have to carry around the pattern. Because this week, is just like Week 1!



On a personal note, it's been a little tough, to stay motivated. I know, that if I'd been working on this alone, I'd have put it down a few times. Between working, party planning, and just life, it's been a little difficult to make time to crochet. Yesterday alone, my daughter had a dance performance. And we had a Baby Shower to go to.

That's why I like the idea, of the "Crochet Along." It keeps you motivated. And moving in the right direction. Have I mentioned all your e-mails? They keep me motivated too! So many great notes. That you all, are enjoying this too!

Well, today, my baby turns 5! And we have a day of fun ahead of us. So I'm almost positive, that my crocheting, is going to wait until tomorrow. Then I'm going to try and jam as much into Monday and Tuesday nights. Because my twins turn 2, on Wednesday. And this week is Spring Break. Oh, so much to do! But I'm determined, to work on my blanket! :)

~Manders

Working in Las Vegas

For the last few days, we've been in Las Vegas. Mostly for work. The band was performing. And more importantly, we got to spend some time with Lola, Hills, this guy, and this guy. Friends that we don't get to see often.

Working in Las Vegas is always a lot of fun! There are so many fun things to do. With shows every night. Unfortunately, we had to leave Lauren, with my parents. Because she's in school now. But we're lucky. That my parents are able to stay with her. And of course take care of her. Thank you Mom and Dad!

I'm not going to lie, we missed our little girl. But I know she had a great time! With my parents. I have a feeling, that many afternoons, were filled with ice cream and dolls. :)



We did get to take our twins with us. During the day, we enjoyed lots of the sights. The twins are at that age, when they just soak everything up! Our favorite place, was definitely The M&M's World! The bright colors, were an instant hit! And they were mesmerized with the Fountains!

I was lucky too! Anna Marie, watched the twins at night. When I had to go to work. Let me tell you, that was HUGE! Can you just imagine me, trying to do Lola's hair and makeup, with 2 tired kids?

There was a time, when the band worked all the time! Traveled a lot more. But in the last 5 years or so, lots of things have changed. Many of us are now married, with kids. Lola has moved. And well, I think we're all in a new phase of life.

So when we get gigs like this, we all enjoy them. I know, as a group, we could book more gigs. We're asked all the time! But as a group, we find it better, to limit the jobs we work. Right now, our personal lives, mean much more to us. And honestly, I like it that way. Besides, we're all close friends. And see each other weekly, if not daily!

Yes, it's been a busy time around here. But I'm happy to be home. With my kiddos. Doing the "ordinary" things. Like cuddling in bed, watching cartoons. As Billy gets ready for the day. And doing laundry, while making snacks, for my twins. These are the things, that life is made of.

When we're old and gray, I'm sure we'll remember, lots of our gigs. I might even remember the amazing shoes, that I wore Sunday night. To that important party. Right after our show. But it's these "everyday memories," that I'm going to cherish much more!

~Manders

Crochet Along: Week 3

Hi everyone! How are your blankets coming along? Good I hope! Lola happened to post some tips, this past week. If you're having some problems, you might want to read her post. If your particular issue wasn't addressed, please leave us a comment. Or e-mail us!

This week, our goal is another "bunny block." Rows 25-45. I'm pretty excited to see this block. I want to know how the bunnies are going to look. Together. Going in opposite directions.



I had a few issues this week. My issues were more because, I didn't like the way my work was looking. So I experimented, with different sized crochet hooks. But now, things are moving along nicely.

I also didn't have much time to crochet this week. I'm 4 rows short, of last week's goal. Mostly because, I'm trying to get my kids' birthday parties together. Oh, and I've been working. Since midweek. So I haven't had much time to just crochet. I hope to remedy that, this week. Tomorrow night, I look forward to some uninterrupted crocheting time.

~Manders

Fast Food...

I've blogged many times, about Lauren's Little Pink Playhouse. To date, it's the best money, that Billy and I, have ever spent on a toy. No lie!

Anytime that Lauren has some money, she wants to buy something for her playhouse. When anyone asks Lauren, what she wants for Christmas, or her birthday, she asks for something for her playhouse. Lucky us, T-Lo always sends something fun!

I can't lie. The other night, I couldn't sleep. So I logged on to our computer, and started "Blog Hopping." :) Not only did I find a fun, and new blog...I found this fun pattern!



In our house, we make pancakes once a week. And on special days...like birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. This was a "no brainer" to me. I printed off this pattern. Looked through my yarn. And tonight, I'm going to start working on it.

This is going to be one of Lauren's birthday presents. :) I just wish that I could find some other quick, and easy patterns. Because I know that she will enjoy some new toys, for her playhouse. I don't mind buying the patterns either. So if you have some ideas, please leave me a comment. I'm always looking for new ideas, patterns, Etsy shops, etc.

~Manders

Super Cute!

In the last few months, so many people we know, have welcomed a new little one. It's such a blessing! In the next few months, we know of a handful of babies, who will also be born. I'm telling you, this is such a joy!

I've wanted to branch out. And make a few gifts. Something made with love. I've made a few things for our nephew. And our friends' little girl. But I'd like to make a few more gifts. For some upcoming Baby Showers, that I'm invited to.

I'm not the fastest crocheter. Nor the best. But I try. I have a few projects that I'm working on, for my own kids. So I was looking for something simple. But cute. And I found just that, in this pattern!



I'm seeking some help from Lola. I want to make the hat for newborns. And well, Lola has been at this, a lot longer than me! I want to have 3 or 4 done, by May. Fingers crossed. I can get this done! Because this hat, is seriously cute! I wonder if Abby would like one too...

~Manders

The Amandas

I'm pretty sure, this is my new favorite show! No lie. I first heard about it, from Lola. And you know what, Amanda reminds me a lot of Lola. :) It's not a bad thing.



In fact, whenever I'm having a "organization dilemma," I call Lola. I'm not going to lie about this. But I've been known, to bribe my friend, with a free haircut, manicure, or even a pair of shoes! Because she makes magic, out the ordinary things, in life. Yes, she does!

This is such great show. And I think you should watch it! If nothing else, the transformations are AMAZING! I'm getting tons of ideas. :) Yes, I do like to see a beautiful room. And Amanda makes some beautiful spaces. Not to mention, I like her name! :)

~Manders

Crochet Along: Week 2

And we begin! Week 2 of our Crochet Along, is were we start crocheting! For this week, our goal is to begin our blanket. And to get to row 24. This will complete the first "bunny block."



Remember, if you are having problems, feel free to leave me or Lola a comment. Or send us an email. We're here to help. As much as we can! Everyone encounters a problem, from time to time. And we'd love to help out, wherever we can.

As for me, we're just starting Week 2, and I already had a problem. A sorta major one. But I called up Lola. Who helped me out. You see, before we decided on a pattern, for this Crochet Along, there was a big sale. On yarn! The sale ended over 3 weeks ago. I figured the stores would have restocked by now. No luck! That's what I get, for living in a small town!

I went to Wal-Mart too. But between 2 crafts stores, and 2 Wal-Marts, I couldn't find enough of one color. :( Like I said, I called Lola. Who gave me this idea. Since I'm making this blanket for a Baby Shower present, why not use baby yarn? I ended up buying 2 big skeins of Bernat's Baby Sport. In the baby yellow. The skeins are 10.5 oz. And under $5 at Wal-Mart. Lola insisted, that I'd have more than enough with 1. She makes a similar blanket, that is larger, with 1 skein. Because it has to do with yardage, not weight. But I bought 2. Just in case!

Along with using Baby Sport, I'm going to use a G hook. Lola said this is essential, because of the weight of the yarn. It will make for a "neater" looking blanket. I might make some modifications to the pattern as well. Depending on how large the blanket is. Maybe add one "bunny block," in both directions. Again, I'll probably consult Lola. So if you are considering what I'm doing, and want me to post the modifications, let me know.

See, I told you that we all have problems from time to time. That's what this Crochet Along is all about. Helping each other out. Getting ideas from each other. And in the end, having a blanket to be proud of.

Personally, my goal for this week, is to try and get 5 rows done, a night. Because I know better. The weekends are tough for me. I like to spend time with my family. And there is usually little, to no time for crocheting. How are you doing so far?

~Manders

Inspired

I recently got this beautiful e-mail. From Lola. Very inspiring. Thanking many of her friends. She's had a tough battle. I know, personally, that it has meant a lot to her. That her friends have stuck behind her. Honestly, I couldn't imagine, not being here for her. Lola not only has a heart of pure gold. But she is the glue, that holds us all together!

Her words definitely choked me up. In fact, Billy cried as well. It was so touching. It's things like this, that make you realize, just how important friends are. Touching things like this, also let you know, what kind of friends you have.

I have to say this much, we have AMAZING friends. Friends that come together, when times get tough. I've never seen people, rally together, the way our friends do. Plain and simple. God has really blessed us.

Along those lines, Lola included this picture. That just made me think. If you never chase after your dreams, they'll never come true. If you never fight, the fight, you'll always lose the battle. And it got me thinking about her situation.



Life has not been kind. She's fought the battle with cancer. Never wavered. Never given up. Bumps along the way, have happened. In fact, literal road blocks. But she's always pushed forward. Looked for a different way, when something didn't work. What an inspiration!

It means a lot, to be Lola's friend. To watch her fight, the fight. To watch her, be the strong woman, that she is. To continue to grow. And be this loving woman. To all that she meets. It makes me realize, that I have so much room, for personal growth. A place where God can share his grace, with me.

Recently, I've just struggled with life. But I know that I'm lucky. I have an AMAZING husband. 3 beautiful and healthy children. We have a home, food, faith, love, and our health. We are lucky. But I know, that my work with God, is not over. I must pray more. Find more time to reflect. And ask God, to share his grace, with me. I know, that he sent us Lola, to teach us these precious gifts. I know that!

~Manders

Crochet Along: Week 1

Welcome Back! This is Week 1, of Lola and I's Crochet Along. This week, is going to be simple. If you'd like to join, you can still let Lola or I know. You can email me, at MandersinLove (at) yahoo (dot) com. Or Lola at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com.

Week 1 is going to be simple. Remember, this is just about having fun. And having others to cheer you on! Just print out this pattern. And do a little shopping. For the yarn. The pattern asks for 35 oz. And a size H crochet hook. That's it! You've got a week to get your supplies.



I have had a bit of trouble, trying to figure out who I'm making this blanket for. Do I make it for a Baby Shower that I'm going to? Or do I make it for an Easter throw, for our home? I decided to make it for a baby. And it's going to be yellow. To match a cute little nursery theme. I'm so excited! And I hope that you join in, on all the fun!

~Manders

Filet Crochet Bunny Blanket Crochet Along

Do you remember when Lola and I hosted a "Crochet-Along" last year? We'd always planned on doing another one. Hoping that we could "get it together," last Fall. But it just didn't happen. Very unfortunate. Never fear, Lola and I are finally planning our 2nd one. :)

Let me tell you, it wasn't easy, finding a pattern. There are so many free patterns available, that we just couldn't decide on one. But guess what? We picked one. Perfect for spring and Easter! The Filet Crochet Bunny Blanket.



Isn't it adorable? We picked this pattern for a few reasons. It's not a difficult pattern. It's absolutely adorable! And it can easily be used for Easter, Spring, or a baby. I don't know about you, but I've been invited to so many Baby Showers lately! I would LOVE to make this blanket, for one of them. :)

Are you interested yet? If you are, please leave a note here, or on Lola's blog. You can also email either one of us. My email is MandersinLove (at) yahoo (dot) com. Lola's is SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com.

This will be a fun project to work on. The way we have it planned out, every week, we'll work on a small section. Every Sunday, Lola and I, will post that week's plan/goal. For example, next week, will be week 1. When we buy our supplies. If everything goes as planned, our blankets should be done, by April 1st!

I hope that some of you are interested. Because it's really a lot of fun. Doesn't it always seem to be more fun, to work on these projects, with other people? Well, if you're interested, I hope to hear from you!

~Manders

Being Honest with Me

My kiddos, my gifts from God, have been in bed, for less than an hour. My hubby, the sweet man that I love, is hard at work. He's finalizing all these plans, for a work trip. That we're leaving on, this weekend. And I'm sitting here, feeling incredibly lost...

If you've noticed, I've blogged more this week, than I usually do. I'm feeling a bit lonely. A bit lost. A bit...well I can't put my finger on it. My life, is everything I've ever wanted. Plus more! I have this incredible man that I love. And whom I know, loves me in return, more than any one person can love. We have 3 amazing, and healthy children. A beautiful home. Food on our table. Health. A good and steady income. Which these days, is not common.

Don't get me wrong, I'm so grateful for all these things. But something is missing. And I can't put my finger on it. I just don't know what it is. But it's bothering me. Do you ever feel this way?



I think I've been panicking about things, that I just can't control. We were supposed to go to Texas this Friday, but it just didn't work out. And you know what, it really bothers me. I was looking forward, to spending time with Billy's family. And I was honestly, looking forward to spending some time on the Ranch.

Lizzie and I, just haven't been spending much time together. I know. We're both married now. We live about 90 minutes away, from one other. But I miss my sister. The weather hasn't helped either. It makes the roads bad, and then neither of us, wants to travel. Even when we've planned to.

Speaking of the weather, it's also made me a bit sad. Or restless. Maybe both. The kids and I leave to take Lauren to school. But we only get out of the car to take her inside. And maybe for a quick run to the grocery store. We then stay inside, all day. Until we go pick Lauren up. There are the drives to church, and dance practice. But that's it.

I'm 100% positive, it's bothering the entire family. But it's been so cold. And more windy than normal. The wind is so strong. I know the twins can't handle it. Heck, I have to carry them, when it gets real bad. Because they just can't stand up. My poor babies!

But all these things are wearing on me. I can feel it. I'm so tense. I can't turn my thoughts off. I almost feel like I'm panicking. Somewhere deep down inside. It's so nuts, that I was literally mad at the TV, on Monday night. Because we weren't getting a signal. The weather was that bad. Our kiddos were asleep. The internet connection was weak. Billy was working. I just got frustrated, and went to bed. I wasn't even sleepy!

Today, I called my friend. Lola always has this amazing outlook on life. If you read her blog, or have the pleasure of knowing her, you know what I mean. :) She's positive, during the worst of times. She has had to battle cancer, off and on, for a few years now. And she never once, gets mad. Or asks why. She just smiles, and looks for the good in life.

I knew, in my heart and soul, that I needed to talk to her. I spent the twins' nap time on the phone. Telling her what was going on. How I was feeling. And she just listened. Reassured me, as I cried. And in the end, she had some words, that just hit home.

What did Lola tell me? To just hand over my burdens to God. To pray. To pray hard. With my entire body, mind, spirit, heart, and soul. Just pray. And really mean it. To ask God, to carry some of these burdens, as I work through them. One at a time. And to talk to Billy. I've been bad about that. I've been keeping all this inside. He knows that something is bothering me. But I just refuse to burden him.

I know this is wrong. He's my husband. My partner. The man that has promised, to go through life, by my side, loving me. I know this. But sometimes, I just don't want to bother him. Then Lola reminded me of this guy. And how he has this incredibly crazy schedule. Lives in the spotlight. And that she still turns to him. When things are too tough for her, she leans on him. And he loves more for it. Happily helping her, through some of her toughest problems.

Lastly, she reminded me of my 3 beautiful babies. My entire life revolves around them. I remember as a little girl, praying to God, to let me be a mommy one day. And my dreams came true. I was blessed with 3 beautiful and healthy children. That love me. And have taught me so much. I need to remember that. Remember that they're the reason, I push forward.

Earlier tonight, I talked to Billy. Really let him know what was bothering me. Sure, we were doing the dishes. And the kids were watching a movie. But I just needed to get it out. I even called my mom, as Billy took the kids a bath. It helped so much!

In the end, I realize, that I haven't been taking care of me. I've forgotten about myself. I've neglected myself. Put me, last. And if I'm going to be 100% for my family, I need to take care of me. I need to do things, that are going to make me a whole and happy person.

To be honest, all those things that I really enjoy, I've let go of. I can't even tell you, when I last went shopping for me. I have no clue! I used to go browse through the makeup, clothes, and shoes. These days, I buy makeup when I'm going to be working. I shop for clothes, because I absolutely need them. Nothing is getting done out of pleasure.

My days of leisurely reading...I don't know what happened to them. I have a pile of magazines, that I haven't even touched! I have 4 books that I started, and still haven't made it past the 3rd chapter. I just don't do things for me.

Billy and I have talked about this. And we've made a deal. Granted that Lizzie feels the same way. At least once a month, he's going to play Mr. Mom. Just for the day, all day! So I can go see my sister. Nothing too crazy. Just lunch and talking. Billy will stay home with the twins, and get Lauren to school. And dance practice.

I think part of my anxiety is, I've been thinking a lot about my brothers. Robert has really been on my mind. I don't know what it is. Maybe the fact that Robbie acts and looks, just like my brother. Maybe I feel guilty. You know, because I have this amazing life. One that he never got to experience. And I stress about my little brother. When will he return to the USA? He's in the Marines. And is still at war. I worry about him all the time!

I've had a lot on my mind. I don't want to burden my friends. Or my family. But I'm realizing, I can't do this on my own. I know that Sals has her hands full. But I definitely know, she gets this mommy stress. I need to not be afraid, to talk to her. I need to make more time, to talk with Lola. She always keeps my head on straight.

Bless you, if you've made it this far. I rarely, if ever, blog like this. I find blogging to be fun. It's something I do, to make myself feel better. I want to add positive thoughts to the world. I want to share things with my readers and friends. Not burden them!

I miss blogging about silly things...like makeup, shopping, and other hobbies of mine. I need to get back to that. Carve out a little space for me. And my interests. I don't want to lose myself. I want to show my kids, that it's important to stay true to yourself. To add things to the world.

Every morning, I start my day, with reading the bible. But I want to add, some more meaningful thoughts. I go to bible study, once a week. And I want to incorporate some of that, into my morning reading. I've also bought a journal. A place to get all those buried feelings and thoughts out. A little more private than my blog. A place, where I can be honest with myself.

I hope I don't scare anyone away. But I just needed to get this out. Sometimes, mommy-hood can get a little overwhelming. A little stressful. And a little lonely. The important thing to remember is, we're not alone. There are so many mommas out there. That are going through the same thing. And we all have God. He's our biggest supporter.

I'm off now. To soak in the tub. With lots of bubbles. And my favorite magazine. Something I haven't done, in so very long! Billy and I, just might get a little crazy, and break out the ice cream too. The best late night snack.

I hope that this post can help someone else. To show you, that we all struggle along the way. That we're not alone. I'm learning, that I can't plan everything. I can't control everything. I'm discovering who I am. And what I really want. What's most important in life. And I know now, that I deserve it. And I need it.

~Manders

The Other End of the Line

Billy and I really enjoy watching movies. I will say, our habits have changed, since becoming parents. We don't really go to the movies much. The movies we want to see, usually aren't what our kids want to see. And when we do go to the movies, it's generally to watch the latest Disney movie.

Since we had Lauren, Billy and I have really built up our movie collection. I won't lie, we just LOVE the $5 bin at Wal-Mart and Target! We buy a few movies, each time we go. But with the holidays and such, we just haven't been watching movies. So our "buys" were starting to stack up.

I decided to pack up a few. When we went to Las Vegas. I figured I could watch a movie, while the band worked. Well, Lola and I decided to watch "The Other End of the Line," one day. While we were getting ready for a show.



This was the cutest movie ever! So sweet. The perfect romantic movie. Something, to just get lost in. And I'm glad, that I watched it with my friend. I just don't think Billy would have enjoyed it, as much as we did. With that being said, I want to watch it again. Hmm, how long will the twins' nap last...

~Manders

New in 2012: Downton Abbey

I want to try something new on my blog. I want to document one of my goals for 2012. Trying new things. Every Friday, I'm going to tell you about something new, that I've tried. Something new, that I did, that week.

We're starting this week off, slowly. Mostly because my family and I, have been traveling. But there is something, that I've wanted to do, for a while now. Watch Downton Abbey.



Lola had been telling me about it. And it sounded like an amazing show! Weeks ago, I finally ordered the series. And I made sure, to pack it in my suitcase. While the BBs were doing their thing, I was snuggled into the dressing room. With my laptop, and Downton Abbey. I'm not lying!

I did watch some of the BBs shows. But not all of them. This is totally normal for me. But instead of reading magazines, or watching YouTube videos, I watched this show. And it's AMAZING! Billy was laughing at me. Because I'm sure, I'm addicted now. :)

I'm planning on finishing up Season 1, while my kids nap. I should have it done by next week. And I'm definitely all over Season 2. It starts Sunday night! So I have to TiVo it. Because I won't yet be done with Season 1.

In my new project, I'm looking for some ideas. I already have a little list. Sitting right here on my desk. And I want to know, and hear from you, about some ideas. What are some ideas or things, that I should try? Please leave me some suggestions. Let's see what 2012 has in store for me...

~Manders