Fab Find Friday: $$ Saving

Dan and I have decided that I am going to work three days a week next year. With three small children, I couldn't be more excited! Our monthly expenses as of now will still be the same since Iris is going to start preschool, so we are not exactly sure how it will work out, but we've prayed a lot about the decision, and feel like it is the right thing to do. That being said, I know some things are going to have to change. We are thinking of getting rid of our land line for the home phone, and possibly cable. We have heard that Hulu Plus is a great way to go for TV.
I've also started reading, The Money Saving Mom's Budget by Crystal Paine. It's full of great money saving tips (that are not too crazy) and ways to streamline your household spending. She explains how to use coupons without being a nut who drives to five stores in one day. Her blog is amazing and filled with printable coupons that you can use at many stores in your area. I realize that it may sound like I'm being paid to endorse this woman, but I promise you that I'm not.  :) I am just so excited to be able to save our family some money when we are going to be losing some. Coupons are basically free $$, so why wouldn't you use them?
All the proceeds of her book go to Compassion International which I didn't know when I got the book, but was excited to learn since we have two children we sponsor (one in Africa and one in Thailand). We have no plans to stop doing so, and are going to keep on supporting our church. Giving is an important lesson we want to model to our children. I'm so excited about finding her blog and book that I had to share them with you! I will give you some updates from time to time as to how it is going, and which of her tips I apply to our household budget as we take this new journey.

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Tummytime...When the Living's Easy

(my fave)

I know. I know. I know. I keep posting pictures of my baby, but come on... look at him! He's adorable. I can't help myself. I'm addicted to cuteness, and who doesn't love tummytime? Not me. I heart tummy time!

Misc. Monday: Milestone or Smallstone...

Dan's been reminding me for awhile now that we need to feed Hendricks a bottle so he is familiar with it before I go back to work. Today, I pumped while he was at work, and he got to feed his son for the first time when he got home. They both loved it. Dan was so excited by how fast Hendricks ate and how big his burps were. I am relieved that eating will not be an issue when I go back to work (it was with Iris), but I don't want to go back to work. Don't get me wrong. I love teaching, my students, my co-workers... I just love my children more.

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Someone's Smilin'

6 WEEKS OLD

Fab Find Friday: Fancy Giveaway

My fabulous friend, Amy, over at The Mombot is giving away an awesome prize to celebrate her one year blogiversary. She actually designed my blog header, don't you love it?  Now that my garden has grown by one little boy, I'm hoping to win her latest giveaway. But I don't want to be greedy, so I figured I should share this awesome opportunity with you too.  Go check it out, and good luck!

Wee-Ones Wednesday: Pearly Whites

Iris had her first check up with the dentist. She did a great job, wasn't scared, and cooperated like a big girl. Hooray, Iris!

Misc. Monday: Happy Easter!

We hope you had a wonderful Easter filled with family, friends, and fantastic food. We are so grateful for what Jesus did on the cross for us so many years ago. His grace is enough.

Sew Crafty Saturday: Beatles Party... Last, But Not Least

 

Here's the last installment of the Beatles party: some decorations, some friends, some family, some crafts, some presents, lots of dress up clothes, and a super happy birthday girl!

Fab Find Friday: Beatles Party Menu

Iris' Beatles party was from 2pm to 4pm, so I didn't have to provide a meal... just some yummy snacks. I ran across a Beatles Mania party on "The Hostess with the Mostest" blog and used some of her food ideas. It was so fun to link up food with Beatles lyrics or song titles. My mom made the cake and used the song "Octopus' Garden" from the Abbey Road album for inspiration.