Bedpost Bandit

Am I the only one who deals with this "shirt problem" (shall we say)?  Call me territorial or maybe even juvenile, but since I have to get to share a bedroom with my beloved, I like to have one side of the bed to myself.  I don't even mean the interior of the bed, because I have to admit I tend to be a snuggler.  There is no his and her side at the Eddins house.

Oh no, I'm talking about the exterior of the bed.  You know, the bedside, area right where I put my feet down on the ground each morning, and the bedpost.  I like having one side of the bed where only my stuff resides.  I guess I like feeling like I can control at least one SIDE of my room!  Is that really too much for a girl to ask?

Apparently, it is!  I don't recall this happening at our old house, but I have been noticing more and more that shirts keep ending up on my bedpost. 

And did you notice that there are 3 of them?  In case you can't count, I counted for you and held up 3 fingers for emphasis....ha!  That would mean that a dirty dress shirt was placed on my bedpost for 3 days...in...a...row...one right on top of the other! 

And I guess that would also mean that I left it there for 3 days in a row (my bad!!).  What does that say about me?  Actually, don't answer that...back to the subject at hand because this post is about my "bedpost bandit" of a hubby!

If the 3 shirts on my bedpost were not enough, let me proceed to the guest room where I was folding laundry the other day.  (Actually, let's face it, I go in there every day to fold clean laundry.  Call me weird, but that's where it lands after it leaves the dryer!)

What do my eyes see?

The bedpost bandit has struck again!

Do you have a bedpost bandit in your house?  If mine wasn't so darn cute, I may have to turn him in to the authorities!  :-)  It just so happens that we are having a date night tonight.  Luckily, it's too warm for any of these shirts because I think they may still be in the laundry hamper! 

Adventures in Yardsale-ing

I'm not sure whether to be mad at you readers out there, or whether I should just be grateful that I have f-i-n-a-l-l-y discovered the madness of yardsale-ing!  I am 100% hooked and it is quickly becoming my favorite Saturday morning activity!  There's nothing else that will get me out of bed earlier than normal on a weekend than the smell of a good bargain!  :-)

This past Saturday was my second weekend out and I had a few things in mind and $20 in my hand (well, I had a little more in my purse but I didn't want to pull it out unless I absolutely NEEDED it)!  The main thing I've been looking for are some beach items to use this summer when we go in August.  Can we say used beach canopy anyone?  I figured if I stumbled upon any other super good deals on home stuff or clothes, that would be nice too.

Before I get to showing you my loot for the day, I thought I'd share a few tips that I've started to learn along the way.

1. Plan your route ahead of time.
This is pretty self explanatory.  Have an idea of what area of town you'd like to hit by looking up sales on Craigslist or some other internet site (or the newspaper if that's your thing).  If you are looking for upscale items/brands, keep that in mind and plan to visit houses in an upscale neighborhood.  If you are looking for exercise equipment, don't go to a yard sale that is advertising mostly baby items.  Etc, etc, etc.

2.  Get started early.
The good stuff will probably go quickly, so if you want to have the best selection, get going around 7 or 8am.  I hate mornings myself, but you'll be glad you started early when you get some great items and you'll have the rest of your day ahead of you! 

3.  Have a set amount of money in your pocket and call it quits when it is gone.
If you're like me, finding good stuff at super cheap prices can be an adrenaline rush.  Just because it's a nice item and priced low doesn't mean you need to have it!  I ended up buying something that I probably won't use a ton, but I sort of justified buying it because it was really cheap.  Setting a dollar limit for your day will help keep your urges to overspend in check.  It will make you think twice about whether you really need the items.  After all, the point is to get what you need at a great price, not to buy things just to buy them.  Hoarders anyone?

4.  Pace yourself. 
Don't get super excited and go nuts at the first stop.  Remember, there are lots of stops ahead and there's no reason to spend all your money at the first house, unless they have exactly what you were looking for!  See #3 to keep yourself in check.  Also, don't forget that you can always come back to a house later once you've had a chance to hit up some other sales.  If that item at house #1 is still on your mind later, then go back and see if it's still there!  But, if you've forgotten about it by the time you get to house #2, then you weren't missing out by not buying it!

4.  Negotiate if you aren't willing or can't pay sticker price.
In general, I can't stand hagglers, but I believe yard sales are a totally different ballgame.  (Sort of how you NEVER pay sticker price at a car lot).  First off, some people are living in a fantasy world and think that their clutter is worth way more than it really is.  If folks are looking to get a fantastic price on their stuff, then they should sell it by some other means.  The way I see it, you are offering to remove the item from their possession instantly, so that has to be worth something!  Secondly, if you think the sticker price is reasonable but you simply can't afford it or don't want to spend that much on it, make them an offer.  The worst they can say is NO and you walk away or you pay full price anyway.  Paying sticker price is so ingrained in my mind that this entire concept of negotiating is still new to me, but I'm slowly learning!       

5.  Bundling is your friend!  
If you want to negotiate on price and are buying multiple items, then bundling is the way to go!  Just have an idea in your head of what you are willing to spend on the whole batch of items and make them an offer.  More than likely, if they want to get rid of it, they won't waste the time trying to figure out the math and just make a gut decision (hopefully in your favor).  


I'm sure there are more tips out there, so feel free to make a comment!  I'd love to hear thoughts from any fellow yardsale-ers!


Now, onto my finds for the morning!

Men's Black Old Navy peacoat - $3

Men's Brown Suede (not real so maybe it's microfiber?) Old Navy blazer - $2

Men's Grey Colombia fleece - $5

Women's Ann Taylor Loft denim jacket/blazer - $5

Black picture frame, Little Einstein's DVD, plastic booster seat, white mirror/hook wall piece, small lamp, plastic toy lawnmower (not pictured), children's beach chair with carrying bag (not pictured) - $12 for everything

Grand Total = $27

The men's clothes were obviously for Kevin.  The man desperately needs some clothes, so I couldn't pass up those items.  As a teacher, he practically lives in long-sleeved shirts and khakis, but he needs to have a nice peacoat and blazer for slightly dressier occasions.  The women's jacket was obviously for me and should be a good staple for my closet.  I'm trying to be more strategic with my clothing purchases and fill in the gaps in my closet with good staples or layering pieces!  The kids items were obviously for Savannah and/or Brady.  The beach chair will be great for the beach!  The white mirror/hook piece will go in the utility room to put keys/light jackets on.  I had just commented the other day about needing something like that in there!  The black frame is for my stairway - I've been trying to slowly accumulate black picture frames that I can stagger up the stairway with family pictures!

Have you been to any yard sales lately?  Any tips for us newbies out there?

Mother's Day 2013

I hope you all had a wonderful Mother's Day.  I had a very nice day, but I'll get to that in just one minute.  Gotta get a few things off my chest first. :-)

I have to be honest and tell you that I had a pretty heavy heart the last week leading up to Mother's Day.  While Mother's Day will always be incomplete for me on this side of heaven since the one who first made me a mother is no longer with us, my heart was heavy because I knew of some specific ladies who were hurting this year.  My heart was so heavy for what they were going through because I know the pain and heartache of loss too.

I don't know about any other baby loss mommy's out there, but I count it as a blessing and a curse.  It's a blessing because my heart can really and truly empathize with those who have lost a baby.  I may not be able to make the pain less, but I can at least try to carry some of their burden.  I believe in some sacred way that God can supernaturally ease some of the heaviness of one's own heart by people coming alongside and taking on some of the burden.  Certainly, scripture is clear that God does that for us (Matthew. 11:28-30), but I believe we can also do it for one another (Galatians 6:2). 

It's a curse though because entering into someone else's pain (even if just a little) is not easy.  It's weighty stuff.  It's forces me to relieve some of my own pain.  So, it can be a double edged sword in that way, but I will say, if Andrew's death has taught me to love and empathize with people better, then I know something good has come of it.  His life and death were not in vain.

With all the being said, I'm also called to praise and give thanks! (I'm still learning how to mourn with those who mourn and rejoice with those who rejoice concurrently - sometimes my heart has no clue what to do with all the emotion!)

This year, I have 2 precious children in my home and I could not be more humbled that God chose me to me their mother!  Sometimes I wonder, what was He thinking??!!  My day actually started the night before, when Kevin gave me some sweet treats to enjoy.  He knows my love language - ha!

When I woke up on Mother's Day, I got breakfast in bed, which consisted of a bowl of Cheerios and some leftover Twizzlers from the night before!  I wish I could say we leisurely enjoyed the morning and took some cute pictures, but the truth is that we scurried out the door to try and get to church on time....just keepin' it real 'round here!

I worked in Savannah's class on a whim when I saw a friend sitting on the floor with 2 sad toddlers (and a few other happy ones) all by herself.  So, I got to enjoy seeing Savannah in her Sunday School element, along with all of her sweet friends!  What a special treat!

We had my grandmother over for lunch after church, which was nice too.  We enjoyed some leftovers (they were yummy leftovers though so don't judge!) and sealed it off with some Blue Bell ice cream.  By the way, stop what you are doing right now and drive your hiney to the store to get some Blue Bell ice cream now!  That stuff is d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s!  You can thank me later!  :-)

After naps, I insisted on getting some pictures outside with the kids.  They were a total mess and I looked like I needed a nap, but I was not going to let the day end without at least 1 picture with my kids!  I birthed those 2 without an epidural, darn it!  :-)  And for your amusement, I have to let you know that I didn't get my picture with Savannah by herself because she decided to stop being stubborn and go #2...in her pants while we were outside!  This was one of those frustrating moments I was referring to in this post from yesterday.  Clearly, photo session over! 

In all seriousness though, I do hope that your Mother's Day was a sweet one.

If you were celebrating with your own Mom, I was celebrating with you.

If you were missing your Mom, I was thinking about you.

If your heart was aching for your child/ren in heaven, my heart was aching with you.

If you long to be a mother and it hasn't happened for you yet, I remembered you.

And know that the Father in heaven was too.

 

A Long Week

This past week was a busy week in the Eddins house.  I also have to be honest and tell you that it was also one of those stressful, feeling like you are at the end of yourself, echoing many "Help Me, Lord!" prayers kinds of weeks too.

This past Monday, we started potty training with Savannah.  My first attempt was a couple of weeks ago and lasted less than a day.  After having her sit on the potty practically every 30 mins. with no success and probably 6 accidents (2 of which were poopy) before lunchtime, I knew I needed to regroup.  Not only were my nerves shot, but we were out of panties!  If my first attempt was any indication, this was not going to be a easy as I had hoped.

My strategy this go 'round was Lora's 3 Day Potty Training Method, which came highly recommended by my blog friend.  I figured that I could handle most anything if it meant Savannah would be potty trained in 3 days!

Here's the basic gist.  **I must warn you that this method is INTENSE and requires that you basically drop all activities for 3 days so you can execute these concepts!**

1.  Throw away the diapers altogether!

2.  Don't ask your child to use the potty, but remind them all throughout the day to tell YOU when they need to go.  This means there will be plenty of accidents!

3.  Focus on rewarding and praising after they are successful and always stay positive (that is tough)!   

Here's a brief rundown of our week!

Day #1 - Monday

We "threw away" the diapers after Savannah woke up and put on her big girl panties (I didn't actually pitch them b/c I can't bring myself to throw money down the drain, but they are in a paper bag in the utility room until I can figure out who I can give them to or find a way to use them up later).  We spent the entire day side-by-side, so we did a lot of movie watching, reading books, and coloring.  It was a very long day....and I mean V-E-R-Y!  She finally had some success at the very end of the day.  I used chocolate chips as her reward as well as a sticker to put on her chart.  I told her that I would buy her a Strawberry Shortcake doll after she got 10 stickers.  We did put her in "night night panties" (Pull-Ups) for night time. 

Day #2 - Tuesday
She had more success today and started to either tell me, or I would catch her in the act and she would finish going on the potty.  I felt more encouraged and thought maybe this would actually work! :-)

Day #3 - Wednesday
Another rough day!  I was feeling frustrated and discouraged at the end of the day because I felt like any progress we made the previous day was out the window.  She only went once successfully!  :-(  And this was day 3, when everything was supposed to "click!"

Day #4 - Thursday
We ventured out so I could attend my Bible study.  I took the potty chair with us in case we needed it.  She had an accident while she was there, but did have some success that day.  Things were looking up a little!

Friday was a bit of a turning point and she went 6 times.  She went once on her own without even telling me, so I knew she was getting it.  On Sunday, I had quite a few moments of frustration because I could tell she had to go, but she kept refusing.  In my impatience, I started asking her if she had to go rather than waiting for her to initiate, which just upset her and made her dig in her heels.  I had to remind myself to stick to the methods and not push it.     

Overall, I think we are on the right track.  She's getting better and better each day and I find that she will surprise me just in the moments when I feel like she is backsliding!  I have been pleasantly surprised that she's also starting to wake up with a dry Pull-Up.  I am hoping we can stop using those once she's a little more consistent during the day.

I will say this though....despite the ups and downs of this process, she looks darn cute on those panties!

  

Mary's Mac N Cheese

I've been meaning to post this recipe for quite some time, actually!  Every time I make it, I think to myself, "I should totally take a picture and put the recipe on my blog!" 

You will thank me later...trust me!

There are probably a lot of good recipes out there for homemade mac n cheese, but I like this one so much for the following reasons.

1.  It's yummy!

2.  It's super duper easy to make!

3.  It doesn't cost much!

And I must add that I have taken it to numerous put luck functions and I always go home with an empty dish...just sayin!  And I have named it Mary's Mac N Cheese because my friend Mary gave me the recipe...go figure!   

Mary's Mac N Cheese

(serves approx. 6)

Ingredients:
2 C. noodles
1/2 onion, chopped
2 Tbsp. butter
3 C. cheddar cheese, shredded
salt and pepper to taste
milk

1.  Mix noodles, onion, and butter (softened but not melted).

2.  Add salt/pepper and cheese.

3.  Add milk until it just covers all noodles.

4.  Bake covered for 30 mins. at 350 degrees F.

5.  Remove foil and cook for 30 more mins. until bubbling in the middle.

6.  Let sit for 5-10 mins. to set up.


Here's the cost breakdown for all you penny pinchers out there.

Noodles = $0.50-$1depending on sales
1/2 Onion = $0.25 (assuming $.99/ lb. price)
Butter =  approx. $0.16 (assuming $2.50 price for 1 lb. of butter)  
Cheese = approx $2.82 (Kroger has cheese on sale $1.88 for 2C. this week) 
Milk = my head hurts trying to figure this one out so just assume 1/4 of a gallon or approx. $0.65
Total Cost = $4.88

Enjoy!

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My Weekend

I know that the week is half over, but I had to post a little something about my awesome weekend!

Have any of you heard of Mrs. Priscilla Shirer?  Don't feel bad if you haven't!  She's the daughter of Dr. Tony Evans (a well known pastor in Dallas, Texas), sister of Anthony Evans (competed on season 2 of The Voice), and just happens to be an amazing Bible teacher and dynamic speaker!

I learned of her just a few years ago when my mother was telling me about a great Bible study that she was doing with these amazing women of the faith.  My mom spoke so highly of the study, but made a point to tell me that she thought I would really like Priscilla.  

Well, time went on and I never had an opportunity to hear Priscilla Shirer or complete one of her Bible studies.  So, when I was approached in December to be part of the steering committee for a Priscilla Shirer event here in Richmond, Virginia, I was totally psyched! 

This past Saturday was the culmination of lots of planning (the ladies in the picture above did far more work than I), lots of prayer, and the presence of the Holy Spirit!  I'm on the back row in the white denim jacket and Priscilla is right in front of me!  :-)  Did I mention that she hugged me and asked my name!?  She was so personable and also happened to be fairly tall as well!  Could she get any cooler?  :-)

The morning started early for me at 5:30am.  If you know me well, you know I am absolutely 100% not a morning person, but, I was really excited about the day ahead and actually managed to be ready in time for my ride (the 4 of us below carpooled since parking was limited). 

 

The morning started with the worship time led by Anthony Evans and his band.  It was F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C!  The music was loud, upbeat, and it was awe-inspiring to look around and see the diversity of women all there to praise God.  I hadn't experienced a time of worship like that for a couple of years, and it was a wonderful reminder of what our days in heaven will be like!

We spent some time praying as well.  Priscilla led us in a really special time.  She mentioned a topic, asked women who had experienced healing/restoration in that area (ex. marriage, health, finances) to stand, and then asked women who were struggling in that same area to raise their hand so we could pray.  It was a very tangible reminder that:

1.  God is still answering prayers, that no situation is hopeless, and that miracles do still happen.

2.  We are not alone in our struggles and that others have gone before us and experienced victory. 

 The Bible study time was spent in the story of Gideon (Judges 6-8).  I could regurgitate all my notes for you, but it wouldn't do Priscilla's delivery justice by any means.  I'd really encourage you to check out her new Gideon study for yourself (or with a church group).  She is an anointed woman and has a way of bringing scripture to life and making it very applicable to life.  And let's just say this, how cool is it that our God used Gideon and 300 men to overcome 142 thousand Mideonites!  Can we say divine intervention?!   

The picture above was taken at the end of the day after lots of tears were shed and we were utterly exhausted!  I can't even put into words how much I enjoyed the day!  I was renewed, encouraged, inspired, and left the event in complete awe of my Lord!  He is alive and at work and I was overwhelmed with thankfulness.  I was also so blessed to be able to experience the day with some amazing friends of mine.  They mean the world to me and are such beautiful testimonies of the Lord's grace in my life!     

How was your weekend?