Loralee Lewis

2011-05-09T21:56:00.000-05:00

This blog has officially been moved to www.nofussfabulous.com

Please join me there!

Every post has gone with!

You can keep up with my family, company and ramblings there!

My company website is now www.loraleelewis.com

This address (www.loraleelewis.blogspot.com) will no longer be available after 30 days!

Miss Hattie's Tea Party

2011-03-22T11:54:00.000-05:00

Within the last few weeks, hundreds of photos have been pouring in from my clients' events! Everything from high-end British fundraisers to simple perfection in Little Rock. I have so many favorites that I can't wait to show you all! They are full of inspiration!

This sweeter-than-life-itself photo came in a few days ago and I just had to post it right away! This is Miss Hattie right before her First Birthday Mad Hatter's Tea Party Brunch! Her mommy purchased the Royal Alice Collection from my shop last year. I think you will agree that Miss Hattie (and her party) are simply priceless. I personally love how Miss Hattie's mother, Andrea Hopkins, kept it age-appropriate, simple, and oh-so memorable all at the same time! From this photo, I think we can all agree the Alice in Wonderland themed birthday brunch was a huge success!

Congrats to both Miss Hattie and her mommy, Andrea!

More photo inspiration and how-tos on the way,

A Little Sweet Vintage Baby Love

2011-03-09T14:11:00.000-06:00

With my little one being ill, I have been a little sentimental lately.

Here are some of my new designs from this past week...

They are both available now in my shop with coordinating items!

I believe he is on the mend!

Blog to you soon,

2011-02-28T21:29:00.000-06:00

Sorry, no posts this weekend. My littlest darling's pneumonia turned into RSV. There are very few things that tear me up as much as my baby athlete not feeling well. 30th Birthday postponed. Life on hold until he feels like this again...

I just love this little boy,

2011-02-25T23:25:00.002-06:00

Dear Friends,

While I furrowed my brow the other morning, worrying about all the friends' phone calls and emails I hadn't answered (to the point that everyone and their dog believes they have offended me!!), an article popped up on my phone for busy women. It had a list of ten things, you should do.

Number six seemed to yell at me. It read "Have Boudaries. You are busy. Don't be afraid to tell your friends that. If they're your friends they will still be around when you have time to hang out." My relief knew no bounds.

So to my wonderful friends, with whom I do not speak for months, and then out of the blue, we talk on the phone like not a day has been missed - thank you. You are the dearest and the best! I will be waiting for you when you are busy. Thank you for waiting for me while I am! Never believe it's because I don't care! Thank you for realizing I'm a little woman who is running children to preschool, shipping out packages to clients, designing client parties in the late hours, making beds in the late afternoon, and specializing in crock pot dinners. And just know that while I am running around like crazy, I furrow my brow some mornings and think about how I wish we had more time to chat. You are in my thoughts. Thank you for caring about me!

All my loves,

Tiny Dancer Collection

2011-02-22T23:32:00.004-06:00

Here is a new collection that I've had in in my shop for a few weeks now!

I know it's popular to do gender neutral parties right now, but I personally love an all-feminine affair for little girls! So this collection is truly dipped in pink.

I didn't want to overload you with photos, but it also has coordinating address labels, thank you notes, favor tags and water bottle labels to match! I couldn't help myself. Once I begin messing with the color pink - I cannot stop.

Blog to you soon,

Exodus

2011-02-22T08:45:00.000-06:00

n January, my husband and I took a risk. We packed up our little family and moved west. As I pulled out of our driveway, I began to cry. Was I making a huge mistake?!? For the past seven years, I had called that house - home. My mind raced. The house I was driving away from was where I had brought my babies home. I thought of my little ones taking their first steps and saying their first words in it's hallways. I thought of all the people who had been welcomed and the parties thrown. I thought of how I had taught my children to pray in it's rooms. I thought of the moments those walls had witnessed. My cry turned into an ugly uncontrollable bawl.

As I stopped to turn out of our Texas neighborhood for the last time (gulping air in between unbecoming sobs), a building caught my eye. It was a large church I had passed a million times. The church had Christmas lights still strung from the roof. I stared at the lights. It was weeks past Christmas. They seemed out of place on the church. Annoyed, I immediately stopped crying and crinkled up my nose. Why don't they take those down? I scowled.

Then it hit me. Even the most sparkling wonderful things in life, no longer shine and touch hearts the same when they have hung on past their time. I was hanging on. I was a Christmas light on January 14th.

It was time for me to leave Texas. I knew it. My heart knew it. And no last minute emotions could change it. So I gave myself a scolding, made the left turn, and headed northwest.

I did not look back. I was afraid if I looked back, I would turn back. Instead, I thought. I thought as I drove three little children, two dogs, and a recent eye-transplant patient :) across four states. I thought about turning 30...about following my heart...about taking risks. I thought about how I was embarrassed when I placed my first invitations online. I thought about how that risk was now my business. I thought about how I had been waitlisted for law school three times, before finally having to turn down the opportunity because my husband had gone temporarily blind and we were adopting Boston. I thought about how I have never once regretted it. I thought about all the times I had felt I should do something and then did not. I thought about telling people we were adopting Ethan and Vienna at the same time and everyone looking at me like I was insane. I thought about them now running into my arms and screaming at the top of their little lungs, "Mommy!" I thought about failed adoptions. I thought about all my adventures abroad. I thought about heartaches. I thought about the day I married my husband - how I almost didn't go through with it. I thought about all the risks I had taken. I thought about all my failures...and my successes. As I drove, I realized anything with meaning in this life involves risk.

As I drove, I wondered about all the wonderful things that would have happened in the world had we all not worried about what others thought and just went for it! If we unapologetically followed our spirit, what could happen? Sometimes I feel that we do not know our mission, because we are too worried about living out the one we think others have for us.  Why don't we all just listen to our individual spirits, blockout the naysayers and believe in ourselves. I do not believe that God has a mission for any of us that is less than 100% spectacular. So why be afraid of living it?

There are a few times in all our lives where we have to throw logic to the wind and follow what we feel our spirit is telling us.  They are life-altering decisions. But then there are other times, every day decisions, small risks, that we often shy away from because we worry about what others will think - which in reality may be more impactful on our life in the long run.

   The small risks may actually shape our lives more than the so-called "life altering ones." Deciding to throw that large dinner party even though it scares you to entertain. Putting your swimming suit on and jumping in the pool with the kids despite your lack luster thighs. Trying a new recipe for Thanksgiving. Calling an old friend out of the blue.

Now the dinner party may end up being a complete debacle. You may end up getting a third degree sunburn by showing your legs that haven't seen sunlight in years. Your mother-in-law may forbid you from ever cooking for Thanksgiving. And your friend may actually turn into an archnemesis. But you never know. You may end up being the hostess with the mostess, leave a lasting summer memory with your child, start a new Thanksgiving tradition, and rekindle a relationship that will last a lifetime.   I have to think that it's worth the risk.

Leaving Texas was a risk. Mr. Lewis was Vice President of his company and had a comfortable income. But I cannot say we are afraid. I think there is a quiet peace that comes over you whenever you know you are following your spirit - even if it's risky. Sometimes a leap of faith is actually more like a warm blanket being wrapped around your shaking shoulders. Don't you think?

Now that we have moved (and I had 22 hours of driving to think), I am focusing on taking small every day risks. I don't want to be a Christmas light burning bright on St. Patty's.   I don't want to be hanging on to what is comfortable. Turning 30 in a few short days is pretty enlightening. I really don't have time for playing it safe. I don't want to wake up in 30 more years and wish I had done some things.   So today, I am designing new invitations, planning more elaborate events for clients, trying a new recipe, and trying my best to step out of my comfort zone daily.

"Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation) there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favour all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. I have learned a deep respect for one of Goethe's couplets: Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it."

Blog to you soon,

Client Event: A Southern Belle's 40th Wedding Anniversary

2011-02-17T10:55:00.001-06:00

I've said it before and I'll say it again and again and again ...and again. I have the cutest clients ever.
An adorable Georgia Peach named Dorothy contacted me last summer to create an invitation suite for her 40th wedding anniversary. Dorothy and Tim have been married 40 happy years and wanted to celebrate in whimsical style. I created a custom Alice in Wonderland invitation suite for her beautiful event and she ran with the rest. Take a look.

Special links and thanks to:
Nate Henderson, Fine Art Wedding Photographer, Open Light Studio
Cake by Kerry O’Connor
Liz Demos helped Dorothy with inspiration for the event styling

Isn't she just a doll?!?

All I can say is that I hope I am as chic and fresh as Ms. Dorothy at my 40th anniversary!

Thanks, Dorothy for letting me share! You (and your daughter) are definitely favorites. Happy 40th!

Sincerely,

3 Last Minute Valentine Candy Wrappers!

2011-02-14T00:37:00.000-06:00

Let's be honest, ladies. Men aren't the only ones who could be labeled "slackers" when it comes to Valentines Day. There are a few of us - we will not name names - who by (no fault of their own) had to speed to preschool today while praying that the glue will dry on the Valentine boxes in the back of the Escalade. For all those women out there, these printables are for you.

Download them, stick them onto candy, and be fabulous.

AND You are NOT a slacker. You are a woman who has things going on. You are fabulous.

Download the wrappers here, here, and here. Drop one off at Granny's and Aunt Betty's. They'll love it.

P.S. They are specially designed for the large movie sized candy. Above is a photo of the candy I used. No snack size snickers from us, ladies! We do Valentines big and expensive! (Psst... they are on sale for 50 cents a piece at Walgreens today.)

Gotta run! I've got to go pick up something for Mr. Lewis

that "I have had planned for weeks." *wink* *wink*

Puppy Dogs' Tails & Sugar and Spice Invitation Collections

2011-02-12T00:36:00.000-06:00

My best friend in the whole world just had her baby girl - FIVE weeks early! We were lucky. Mom is doing perfect. The baby, Miss Beatrix Rose, is perfect. Everything just worked out. Seeing her little pink bundle and smelling the fresh baby smell of her head full of hair inspired me to make some new baby shower collections. I just finished these designs and placed them in the store! Can't wait to show you the coordinating items. Water bottle labels, address lables, stickers and thank you notes to come shortly! But seeing that I am really wanting to do a vintage circus theme baby shower for her ....there may be more invitations to come as well!

Blog to you soon,

A Well Stocked Hostess

2011-02-10T00:35:00.000-06:00

Not too long ago, I was idol-worshipping (read: 'watching a Paula Deen special'). Paula was featuring a dessert recipe. She stated that everyone could make the recipe because it only required things everyone had in their pantry. Then she rattled off a small list of items. The audience blinked. Don't y'all have those in your kitchen? She drawled. The audience clearly did not. Then Paula laughed in that Southern way that makes me want to eat a cube of butter just to make her smile! Oh, that woman!

Apparently, Ms. Deen has a well stocked pantry. And I would bet her Southern Charm that it has saved her more than once!

Lesson learned: A key to being a great hostess is a well stocked pantry.

Being LDS, I've grown up with the importance of having food storage. Our church encourages us to have a three month's supply of food in case of an emergency. But it wasn't until I got married that I realized my mother's food storage was slightly different than the normal Mormon pantry. Yes, we had our buckets of wheat. But we also had a wall filled with brownie mixes, frostings, pie fillings, extra cupcake liners, and candles. Plastic forks, extra napkins, food coloring, nuts of every variety, and umberellas for beach drinks all laid neatly in our food storage closet next to the canned beans. I will not forget going food storage shopping as a newly wed and my husband, asking repeatedly why I would need so many nonpariels. Case in point: my mother subliminally taught me Paula's lesson as a small child.

So what do you really need in your pantry to be a well stocked prepared hostess?

Good question. I've done a little research and added a few touches of my own to compile the below downloadable list. You can download it here. You may have to add or subtract things according to your personal recipes and/or taste.

Also, if you want to go the extra mile and stock your pantry Mormon style for three months of daily living - not necessarily entertaining - feel free to download the above photographed inspiration card. I created them for my dear mother a week ago because she was teaching a church seminar on canning. I still have so much to learn from that woman.

Ladies, let's be so fabulous together that when the unexpected party comes our way - we just open our well-stocked pantries with a snobby (but still sweet) smirk and pull off an event to remember!

Blog to you soon,

Cake & Ice Cream

2011-02-06T00:33:00.001-06:00

Super exciting news: In November, P.S. The Letter in Fort Worth, TX started carrying my collections in their brick and mortar store!!! I have been working on quite a few new collections for them, as well as my Etsy store. Here is one of my new collections, Cake & Ice Cream. It's been a bit of a favorite. I couldn't decide what color I liked it in best - so I ended up offering it in both pink and blue! Maybe a contender for my 30th Birthday Party!

Hope you like it!

Blog to you soon,

A Hostess on Fire

2011-02-04T00:32:00.000-06:00

used to love it when the fire alarm would be set off in elementary school. A huge Cheshire Cat grin would come across my face that I would try to wipe off as we lined up to exit the school. It's not that I enjoy danger. It was the release from mundane. The break from the routine brought about an uncontrollable giddiness in me. I honestly couldn't help myself.

I now believe this is why I adore parties and entertaining. Daily life can become mundane for me. Rinse and repeat. A party or social event adds the unexpected spark to my routine. On an event day, I do not arrive at elementary, do my workshop, circle time, and calendar. The day is different. It is often frazzled, chaotic and maybe most importantly - new! It's unexpected. The fire alarm goes off!

The other not-so-selfish reason why I love to throw a party is because of others. I love seeing someone transported from their daily life into a new world. When a very pregnant woman is surrounded by friends and the joy of being a new mom - she tends to forget her swollen feet and expanding waistline. Or when a bride blushes opening up a negligee, thoughts of how her fiance and her are fighting over wedding details vanish and the joy of marrying him overflows. A party is a chance for a mom to remind her son that he is her super hero.... or a daughter how she truly is a princess. I will never forget the baby shower after the adoption of my Ethan and Vienna. The immense trial I had been through wiped away, and I was nothing but a new mom. It was perfect. A well-planned event tells the guest of honor and the guests - they are truly loved. They matter. Worth celebrating. I just love that so much. With my products, I try to create something unique that will send a message to the guest that something fun and new is going to happen to them on that special day.

As more and more party blogs pop up all over the internet and my business has been taking off, I have been rethinking my purpose in blogging. I don't want my blog to be just a place to feature the latest party or invitation I put together. (Not that I don't mind an "atta girl" every now and then. Who doesn't?! ) But due to the time commitment, I need it to have a purpose. I don't want to take it too seriously. But in all honesty, I am like you. We want to spend time on something that means something.

In 20 days, I am turning 30. I've always just had a feeling that 30 would be a good year for me. I actually love the sound of being 30. It makes me feel grown up. No more pull-ups. Thirty means it's time to be the woman you are meant to be. (P.S. I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't planning the best party EVER!! Think Marie Antoinette meets Oprah's favorite things minus the trip to Australia. Yes, ladies. Let us eat cake. Now I feel like I've told you too much...I digress...) Anyway, I am turning 30 and I want it to be a great year. I want to grow. I want to take some chances. I want to fail. I want to succeed. And maybe most of all, I want to have fun. I want to stand a little taller. Weigh a little less. Wrestle my kids to the floor more often. Kiss my husband with more passion. Laugh too hard. Work too hard. And do my hair every day. In other words, I want to pull the fire alarm. I want to expect the unexpected.

I want to become the woman I've always wanted to be. Part of that woman is an extremely good hostess. I love people who make other people comfortable. People who make others feel special just by knowing them. It truly is an art. To me, that is a good hostess. And although, I'm better at being a hostess than I was five or ten years ago, I still have room to improve. So that is my purpose in blogging. This blog will be an exploration of becoming a great hostess. I'll still be showing you my products I'm working on. I'll show my parties I've thrown for my clients and friends and family. But hopefully (fingers crossed), we will discover together excellent and inspiring tips on how to not only throw a fabulous party without the fuss, but to make others feel special effortlessly - not only at special events but in day to day life as well. I am not a believer less is more. I believe in knowing more you do more, but you do it so well it seems like less. Does that make sense? That's what I want to do this year. Learn more, do it better until it becomes effortless.

So let's entertain, ladies. I am turning 30. I'm pulling the fire alarm!

Blog to you soon,

I Cry When I Take the Tree Down...

2011-01-05T00:31:00.000-06:00

Okay, not really.

Generally speaking,

I step into my living room on December 26th

and want to rip down that 13 foot fir down faster than you say "figgy pudding."

Don't get me wrong.

I am all in when it's Christmas.

I LOVE Christmas...but when it's over - I'm over it.

Until this year....

this year was different.

This Christmas was magic.

I don't know if it was my kids age. They are at an age where it is so easy to believe.

...or just how sometimes when you haven't had the smoothest of years - you really appreciate what matters most.

Family

I closed my store for most of the month of December and I just enjoyed the season. I have to say it was worth it.

So reluctantly, I am putting the Christmas Tree away today.

So I find myself (the eternal 'on-to-the-next-thing- girl) in an unexpected place. I keep saying, "Loralee, you've got to get into the New Year! It's time to go forward!" But inside, I am thinking, "Yes, but the past has been beautiful as well. It was a beautiful Christmas."

Here is to hoping that the New Year brings as much beauty as this past December!

Best,

Mele Kalikimaka Christmas Freebie Tag

2010-12-23T00:27:00.002-06:00

Mele Kalikimaka is the thing to say on a bright Hawaiian Christmas day ... or just when you don't have time to make another batch of homemade fudge for the newbie neighbors!

To create a simple gift for friends just in time for the holiday, pick up a few pineapples. Download and print the freebie tag I created here, sign your name, and you are fabulous! I promise you the neighbor's will not miss the homemade fruitcake.

Dashing through the snow rain,

The Annual Lewis Family Santa's Breakfast 2010

2010-12-22T00:25:00.000-06:00

I know you are probably wondering where I have been. Well, it's a long story. It has to do with a cornea transplant, a failed adoption that I had to remove my personal blog from the Internet due to (eek!), preschool drama....and well, I could go on but you have all been there. Great things and crazy things have happened. Time has flown by and I've missed my blog. So here I am to stay, I apologize for the confusion and delay in posting, but I know you understand. Life is crazy, if it wasn't - we wouldn't love it so much.

I'm as giddy as a child on Christmas morning to share our latest family celebration! We had so much fun, ladies. As you know, I do an annual Santa's Breakfast for family and friends. I ran with the Reindeer Gamestheme this year! Here's this year's party photos!! Above the tablescape.

Due to the large number of people coming this year (every one has had a baby!!!), I absolutely refused to cook! :)

I know some of the men missed the homemade hot pancakes, but they forgave me once they saw the doughnut tower! Men are so easy to please. Maybe that is why I love them so much!

I stacked doughnuts one on top of each other to create a self-serve doughnut tower.

A hot cocoa bar was a must.

I placed little dishes filled with peppermint swirl sticks, mini chocolate chips, marshmallows, and cinnamon around for guests to enjoy with their hot cocoa.

And who doesn't need a bit of Dasher & Dancer Whipped Cream with their hot cocoa?!? Apparently, not everyone is obsessed with whipped cream as I am, because I had a million bottles left over. If any one wants one, my fridge is well stocked.

John Christensen created two of these fabulous food towers for me to stack bundt cakes on. To order one (or two!), feel free to contact him at johnchristensen@gmail.com

In my humble opinion, they made my bundt cakes taste even better! Everyone needs one. I would be lying if I told you that these wouldn't be featured on every party I do next year. So cute.

Since there is not a snowflake in sight here in Texas (80 degrees today!), I placed fake snow all around the table! I thought this was brilliant. Unfortunately, I didn't think about the wind factor.

We had a mini severe winter fakestorm as shown in the above photo, but the kids LOVED it. I think it was worth getting a few plastic snowflakes stuck in my mascara.

Keeping with my commitment to keep it no fuss, I served yogurts with coordinating labels. Due to my excellent photo abilities, you can't read the labels as clearly as I had hoped.

The fineprint read: Figgy Pudding Co. Serving the North Pole since 1681. Excellent Source of Calcium for Maximum Take Off and Landing.

The fineprint on the front said 100% non-gravity enhancing. Blitzen Berry was favored over the Vixen Very Vanilla.

With a Reindeer Games theme, you have to have some Reindeer Games. We had Reindeer Relays with Reindeer Stick horses made by my mother. To answer your question - yes; she is the Mormon Martha Stewart. I call her Sandra Anderson Living daily. She acts annoyed, but I'm pretty sure she likes it. :) She is going to die when she reads this. Anyway, are those not the cutest Reindeer Stick horses ever?

The Reindeer Games competition was fierce.

These reindeer truly flew.

As I handed out reindeer ears for each child, I realized that I am slightly obsessed with kids having headwear at parties. The antennas and construction hats at the Queen Bee Party, the crowns at the princess pixie party, the hats at the Alice in Wonderland Tea Party, and the Safari caps at Boston's Safari Adventure party...all could have been indicators. But it wasn't until this party that I realized that it may be a pattern. Needless to say, I handed out the reindeer ears with gusto and the kids looked cute, cute, cute.

One of my clients, Michele Yelton, gave me the cutest idea ever for a favor - Reindeer Oats!

I can't take any credit for this adorable poem. Michele's mother used to make these for her girl scout troops years ago. She asked me to make labels for her party this year, and I just had to copy. I filled containers with glittered oats and placed this label on them. I seriously just about died about this poem. So fun.

Mr. & Mrs. Claus made their appearance. They were by far the greatest part of the party.

After each of the kiddies had a turn on the big man's lap, we had Mrs. Claus read my favorite Christmas book, I Believe in Santa Claus by Diane G. Adamson, to bring it back to the real reason for the season.

Overall, it was so much fun!

2010-11-18T16:05:00.001-06:00

More than one person has sent me this.

I have no idea why.

She doesn't remind me of anyone.

And for the record,

I think pearls and high heels bring a track suit together nicely.

To Kids from One to Ninety Two...

2010-11-18T14:25:00.000-06:00

We are filling Christmas orders left and right over here! I feel like a tiny kid with all the holiday cheer and hustle bustle surrounding me. Everyone is excited about their big (or intimate!) holiday event and that joy is not lost on me. I think that is why I love parties so much. It's a fun escape from the everyday routines.

A time to forget about worries and remember the important things in life - family, friends, celebrating each other and being together! I think there are too many reasons not to do things together anymore. We are so connected to the world; we sometimes are not connected to each other. I think celebrations bring people together and make a sometimes dull life a little more sparkly. They bring that Christmas magic you felt as a kid back.

Here are a few of my Christmas designs...

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

2010-11-12T10:54:00.000-06:00

Okay, not really in Texas.

It's actually 71 degrees this afternoon.

But do not worry.

That hasn't kept me from googling hot cocoa recipes every chance I get

...and in between sips creating coordinating labels!

I promised myself last New Year's that I would begin planning Christmas 2010 the day after the 4th of July.

Well, I'm a little behind schedule.

131 days to be exact.

I'd be concerned, but I've learned somehting imperative this week -

There are very few things a mug of Peppermint Hot Cocoa cannot fix.

Hot Cocoa is splendid.

Now if it would only get cold outside!

These custom labels are in my store now.

More custom designs coming soon!

Giveaway Winner!

2010-11-05T09:56:00.002-05:00

More freebies coming soon!

Client Event: Carolyn and Taylor's County Fair

2010-11-04T00:29:00.001-05:00

One of my client's came to me with the cutest idea ever...

a Vintage County Fair themed birthday!

I'll be honest, I get a lot of requests for custom birthdays but this one was too cute to pass up.

There are few things more precious in this world than little girls riding horses and little boys bobbing for apples. If you doubt me, see photos below.

I originally designed my Pumpkin County Fair Collection for the event, but then quickly revamped it to my (now) Birthday Buckaroo Collection as it better fit the cowgirl feel.

As you can see below, I think the whole event turned out super special.

If you were in love with the photos as much as I am, you would want the photographer's contact info!

You can find Laura Endsley Photography here.

A special thank you to Carolyn, Taylor, their fabulous Mommies, and Laura Endsley for sharing!

I'll be back tomorrow with the winner of our giveaway!

My Harry Potter Party 2010

2010-11-01T11:47:00.006-05:00

Mr. Lewis and I have an infatuation with Harry Potter.

It's bad enough that I would call it borderline embarrassing.

I'm not dressing up as Lucius Malfoy yet,

but I'd be lying if I told you I had not thought about it.

I do have the hair.

So you'd be surprised to know that I've been holding off on creating a Harry Potter inspired invitation.

The truth is Mr. Lewis has been begging me for some time now to create one and for an odd reason - nothing was coming. That, and I didn't want to disappoint Mr. Lewis when a Phoenix didn't come out of the invitation, hand him a new invitation from Hogwarts and then burn up in front of his eyes. Surprisingly, Mr. Lewis has a flair for the dramatic.

Luckily, there is no better cure for procrastination than a deadline looming

- as I always say "if you wait to the last minute only takes a minute!"

Mr Lewis and I had planned an intimate (but scheduled!) Harry Potter event for October 29th with one other couple. So I rushed an invitation together a few weeks back and you are seeing what I came up with.

Unfortunately, sans Phoenix or burning or any kind.

And here's a look at the party! It really was so much fun.

Below is the dessert table!

I served soup in pumpkin bowls with bread sticks on the dining table.

I wish I could take credit for the cute names, but its' all J.K. Rowling!

I tried to stay pretty true to the books.

With the exception of "Hufflepuff's Famous Popcorn" and "Edible Sorting Hats"

- apparently I couldn't help myself.

Our "Pumpkin Juice" from The Three Broomsticks.

I placed 'Hedwig' and his buddies all around the tables and chairs.

I kind of credit Harry Potter for bringing owls into trend.

I'm a huge proponent of good food at a party.

These adorable spiderweb cookies I found at Walmart. I have vowed never to go there again, but for some reason about once a week I look up and find myself in the parking lot with a cart full of plastic bags. It's the same story with me, Target, and their return policy. Cue the violins.

Here are my little popcorn Thank You favors.

After our guests left and our kiddies were asleep,

Mr. Lewis and I watched the first Harry Potter outside on a laptop.

Our goal is to finish them all before the premier of the new movie. But considering we are parents of three kiddos under four and fall asleep the minute we hit any bed type surface. The outlook is bleak.

But we did have a fabulous time!

My Super Heroes!

2010-10-31T13:19:00.001-05:00

I have never heard "To the rescue!"

so many times in one day!

Happiest Halloween,

My Little Pumpkins!

2010-10-30T22:01:00.002-05:00

So we made it to the Pumpkin Patch!

My pumpkins LOVED it.

After a solid hour of running from pumpkin to pumpkin,

they cried when Mr Lewis and I told them we had to go!

So like any good parents, we bribed them.

We promised them all ice cream cones if they got in the car without a fuss.

They waved good bye relentlessly to all the pumpkins.

It was possibly the cutest thing EVER!

And then they all fell asleep while we were in the drive thru

- leaving Mr. Lewis and I with three orange sherbert cones!

Oh my little pumpkins!

How did we ever live without you?

Blog to you soon!

Can't wait to show you the Harry Potter Party we had yesterday,

Trick or Treat Tag Freebie for Mommies!

2010-10-29T17:35:00.002-05:00

It's a little foggy,

but somewhere between October 1st and now...

I forgot to get my kid's Trick-or-Treat from Mommy together!

Your own mom forgetting your special treat on Halloween is almost as depressing as

half a plastic pumpkin filled only with Bit-o-Honeys. Your grandma forgetting is probably neck and neck.

With all the fun holiday plans, I knew I wasn't going to get a chance to head to the grocery store alone-

so while my kiddos were "napping" (we use that term pretty loosely in this household)

I threw together a little something for my little ones to be surprised with tomorrow morning! I'm just happy they are still little and will be just as thrilled with popcorn as they would a king sized candy bar!

Not that any of you would ever run the slightest second off schedule, but on the off chance that maybe there are just few of you out there who are running a little behind like me - I thought I'd make the little tags I created available for download.

I created them using my Vintage Trick or Treat Collection invite as inspiration.

You can download the tags for free here!

Happy Halloween, Mommies!

Now I'm off to the pumpkin patch.

Photos will follow shortly.

I'm not one to miss an opportunity to show off my little sweeties!

Fall Photo Shoot outweighs Pumpkin Patch while in SLC

2010-10-27T20:48:00.000-05:00

With all the hustle of the wedding, my mom, Annie, and I didn't have a chance to take the kids to the pumpkin patch!

But we (of course) took time to get one big photo of all the cousins together!

Trying to get four toddlers under four to smile all at the same time is impossible in my world.

I will settle for three out of four any day.

If they weren't cousins - I'd be planning their wedding.

The girls loved having coordinating fur jackets
Those are my girls!

Mr. Dreamy himself.

I know I'm their mother, but I wouldn't be surprised if you were looking at the future President and Secretary of State.

I have no preference as to which one is which.

Like I said, I will settle for three out of four any day.

Love my little Mr. President ...or Secretary of State.

I can't wait to show you the Harry Potter Premier Party I'm throwing this week!

Hope you make it to the pumpkin patch (..and me too!),

P.S. Are pumpkin patches open after Halloween?

Not that I know anyone who would do that.

Client Event: Mummy's Night Out!

2010-10-27T12:05:00.000-05:00

I don't know how it's possible, but somehow only the cutest ladies in the world order from my shop. My clients are so darn cute - it makes the average person slightly queasy. Sometimes it even makes me queasy.

Case in point: Ms. Kate from Cocktails and Cupcakes.

We customized our Halloween Spooktacular collection into a Mummy's Night Out invitation for Kate and she ran with the rest!

Here are a few scrumptious details from her event...

The invite. Mummy's Night Out! *sigh* Such a cute theme.

I love the labels she used for the drinks!

I especially enjoyed how she did not stray from the Mummy theme and coordinated it into all her food.

It's so easy to think Halloween and get into Witch Hats, bats and everything under the Hallow moon. I loved how she kept the food focused and stuck with her theme!

Brilliant!

Loved it!

And who doesn't love over sized pom poms?

Fantastic job, Kate!

$50 gift certificate Christmas Kick Off Giveaway!

2010-10-26T09:54:00.001-05:00

With Halloween wrapping up, Loralee Lewis & Co. has been working nonstop preparing for the Christmas party season! My little shop has been officially open now since July 16th this year and we just reached 300 clients. Me and my assistant, Wayne, have been over the moon! To keep in touch with my beloved clients as well as keep the grandmas out there happy, I am now combining my personal life blog with my company's blog here at http://www.loraleelewis.com/. You will find photos of my clients events, new products we are rolling out, as well as my shindigs, fun recipes, crafts and tips, ...and of course a little too much (unbiased as it may be) commentary about my children.

We have four new Christmas designs out, but have ten new ones that should go public by the end of next week! I can't wait!!! It has been so fun getting to know my clients and working with so many fun party-planning women from all over the world!

To celebrate the Christmas collections and new site, I am kicking it off by giving away a 50 dollar gift certificate ! To enter, simply visit my Esty store and leave a comment here on which invitation design you like best! It doesn't have to be a Christmas invite! You will have five extra entries if you subscribe to my blog or if you post the giveaway on your own site! (Please email me or comment if you do - so we can be sure to give you all your entries due!) The giveaway will end a week from today on, Monday, November 1st!

P.S. I know the Halloween season is coming to an end, but here are a few of my favorite designs from the season...

I can explain...

2010-10-25T15:07:00.003-05:00

I've been at a wedding.

My sister, Tami's, to be exact.

And no, it wasn't a month long...but it should have been.

It really was so fabulous.

Except when the hairdresser messed up on her hair and I had to jump out of the shower and try to save her gorgeous mane 45 minutes before the reception with absolutely no hair prowess! Somehow the Heavens opened for me in conjunction with two flowers to cover up a multitude of bobbypins - and Tami left looking beyond stunning. Bride of my dreams - inside and out!

I, on the other hand, borderlined struggled. Mr. Lewis missed his plane and got there right when the reception began leaving me with three little ones and 20 minutes to get ready. And yes, that is a plastic grocery bag around my waist being used as a belt to hold the robe on. What can I say? I jumped out the shower, couldn't find the robe's belt (why don't they sew those things on?), and a bride's hair needed me. End of story.

Clarification: I did not wear the robe or plastic bag to the wedding.

If the bride hadn't been so beautiful, these little ones might have stolen the whole show.

Instead they ran wildly around the grounds, teased guests, and ate more dessert than I care to admit.

They smiled nonstop - until the professional photographer showed up.

Overall, the wedding was a perfect success and Tami is now in marital bliss.

And I'm back to blogging

- wishing for another perfect wedding to come my way!

Back to School P.O.P.

2010-09-27T20:38:00.003-05:00

More to be cheeky than cute, I threw a Back to School P.O.P. (parents only party) in August for some close dear friends the week all our munchkins started preschool. I have been meaning to post them for weeks, but as I am sure you have noticed (due to the lack of posts!) I have been MIA. :) The theory was that I would be less busy when my kiddos started school. The reality is that is completely untrue! Anyone else feel that?

Here are some of the details of my little get together.

To keep things easy, I chose three of my favorite cakes and placed them on self-serve platters for everyone to taste throughout the evening. The men especially liked this. With swimsuit season coming to an end, us ladies ditched our diets a little too willingly. I labeled each cake a name I thought fit the time of year.

For dinner, I made little cold lunch sacks for each guest with gourmet goods inside. The items that didn't fit in the sacks I placed al la carte on the table.
Here was our menu. I'd be lying if I told you I made all these and didn't get take-out from my favorite local cafe.

To keep the conversation fresh, I placed little Pop Quiz sheets and pencils next to each guests plate. The pencils had little flag tags on them that read, "The most wonderful time of the year!" All the guests agreed a little too quickly... and then us moms gushed about how we had been looking forward to school starting again all year, but then bawled as we sent them away. The irony! Questions like, "Who was your 9th grade crush?" and "What was your most embarrasing moment in school?" were especially fun. It was an inexpensive way to keep us laughing.

More photos of the cakes. Possibly the best part of the evening.

For favors, I made take-out menu booklets for each couple titled, "School Night Cram Session, Weeknight Dinner Cliff Notes." I filled them with all our favorite local take-out menus and numbers. To save me time, I found most of the take-out menus online and sized them to fit my make-shift booklets. The ladies especially loved these. I hate to admit how much I've used it in just the first month of PRESCHOOL. :)

Anyway, I know it's late but thanks for letting me share my back-to-school party!!

Best,

Honesty

2010-09-23T18:19:00.002-05:00

I'd be lying if I told you we weren't ready for Halloween.

Blog to you soon..(promise this time!),

The Queen Bee's Birthday

2010-09-15T11:09:00.005-05:00

My little Miss Vienna is turning three this Friday! Since we had so much fun throwing her brothers parties this past summer, I was super excited to get in full-girl mode and celebrate my little slice of sunshine with a late summer affair! This past weekend we celebrated Vienna's third year of reign with The Queen Bee's Birthday Party. It was a lovely (albeit hot! hot! hot!) pint-sized event.

A photo of the party prior to the little bees showing up! (I decided to throw her birthday party at a local park instead of at my home, because I wanted a playground nearby for the little Queenies to play on. Unfortunately, the park was closed due to flash floods the week before and I only found out 30 minutes before the party began! I had a total anxiety attack, but our little bee guests made the best of it!)

Here is the invite I created for her. That got to V's guests very late - which is unforuntately becoming my tradition these days.

I probably take my invitations a little too seriously to be honest.

Annie designed these fantastic wood party signs that she sells at various boutiques. I'm embarrassed to say how many I have.

I purchased paper lanterns from Oriental Trading and Michaels (Summer Clearance!!) to hang in the trees. I had these grand plans to hang them with ribbons and flowers from all the trees at various heights using a ladder, but since I was running late (big surprise) on the day of the party I just placed them on low branches surrounding the girl's table. I think it worked.

A photo of my little Queen Bee at the party. Again, she is turning three. So, of course, there is no looking straight at the camera or smiling in general when the camera is out! You would die if you saw her in real life, I realize I'm biased - but she truly is fantastic in every way! Oh, how I love this little girl!

Oh, wait! I just found one of her looking at the camera in my photo bin! Of course, I am posting it! Then back to the party. (New Reader Note: One of the realities of this being my blog is that there will be more than an adequate number of my children's photos posted on it. )

Now back to the party...

One of the dearest people in the world, Becky Melton, created these magnificent beehive cakes for V. She is just about to open up her first bakery and ice cream shop, Cakes & Cream, in Oklahoma. More details to come. With a name like Cakes & Cream, I think we will all want to be at the grande opening. Let me be honest for a minute, she is fantastic! I can't tell you how lucky I feel to have her as a friend. I just mentioned in a passing email how I would love for her to make two beehive cakes for Miss V's birthday if she lived in Texas and quicker than I can say "two fantastic beehive cakes", she was a my door with two fantastic beehive cakes. She had driven down from OK for me! You can't buy friends like that. I told you - Fantastic. You can contact Becky here: bhmelton@yahoo.com

Of course, I had to put the beehive cakes in pimped out wreaths and hang them from the trees. There really was no alternative.

Here is the little tablescape.

Each little girl got a basket with little treats on her plate. I then served the bee guests Cheese sandwiches on Honey Wheat bread. I was going to do peanut butter sandwiches with honey, but with all the peanut allergies these days it really wasn't worth the risk. Cheese sandwiches are three-year old friendly and have nothing to do with peanuts. After they ate, I had V's guests take their little baskets and buzz around the park to find flowers (dandelions!).

The girls drank "Flower Nectar." - Lee's idea!

A mini dessert table with "Flower Stems" "Honey Lemons" and "Petunia Nectar."

Beehive and flower cupcakes were also a must.

Vienna gave each of guest's mommies a little jar of honey labeled, "Thank you for bee-ing here."

Each little girl wore a bee headband with a flower. My little men (the only gentlemen at the party) wore construction hats labeled "worker bee." Here are a few photos of our little guests.

Blog to you soon,

First Day of Preschool!

2010-08-18T22:40:00.001-05:00

My little twin crew went off to their first day of Preschool today. This will be Vienna's first year at a long day program. I thought I'd be thrilled for them to start school - instead I spent all day bored as can be and emotional as ever waiting for them to come home!!! Me and Boston walked around Costco aimlessly waiting for when school would be over. I even accidentally picked them up 30 minutes early! It was most likely subconscious.

I worried about them all day, but when it came time to pick them up - they didn't want to leave! They had a blast and begged to come back tomorrow! I guess they are going to do just fine.

Vienna marched up the little ramp to her school fearless. Didn't even look back! I was so proud of my little girl. She was going to have a great first day! And she did. You will see the photos of her telling me all about her day eating her after school snack, milk & cookies. She was so excited.

Ethan gave Vienna confidence I think, because he seriously isn't afraid of a group. He walked right into the school, opened the door and loudly said "Hi, friends!" The same greeting he says to everyone each week when he goes to closing exercises in primary! He really loves people and is in his element around his peers. Having done preschool before, he seemed to know the ropes and felt comfortable in the school setting even though it was a new program.

Sundays go by too fast.

2010-08-16T17:26:00.001-05:00

Weekends are a bit like rainbows;
they look good from a distance but disappear
when you get up close to them. ~John Shirley

There aren't enough days in the weekend. ~Rod Schmidt

Of all the days that's in the week

I dearly love but one day

And that's the day that comes betwixt

A Saturday and Monday.
~Henry Carey

Sunday clears away the rust of the whole week. ~Joseph Addison

Raspberry Lavender Gelato makes me look impressive.

2010-08-16T07:44:00.004-05:00

*photo via www.503creativeblogspot.com

A little while back, I purchased this.

You can find it at my-not-so-secret-favorite here.

And I'd be lying if I told you that it wasn't one of my best purchases ever.

This machine makes me look good.

I can't tell you how fancy I feel when I am entertaining and bring out a homemade lavendar raspberry gelato or pumpkin pie ice cream. I like to think my guests find me impressive. When in reality I just threw a bunch of things this little tin box!

In fact, I love it so much that I bought Annie one

and I am 71% sure that I'm buying my bff one for her birthday as well - so she will have two!

(Two different homemade ice creams going at the same time!?!? Personally, I can't think of a better birthday present.)

Needless to say, in this Texas summer heat, we have been putting this little machine to good use.

So far this summer me and my little trio have tried:

Banana Nut Ice Cream

Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream

Strawberry Ice Cream

Key Lime Sorbet

Lemon Sorbet

Creamsicle Ice Cream

Orange Sherbet

Old Fashion Root beer Slushies

Raspberry Gelato

Raspberry with Key Lime Gelato

Strawberry Gelato

and old fashion Vanilla Ice Cream

But out of all of the different recipes we've tried, by far my favorite is the Raspberry Lavender Gelato.

It is fantastic.

No one wants to look good alone. So go buy yourself an ice cream maker and try this recipe...

Originally, I made my own recipe but this recipe tops the charts. I found it via 503 creative blog here.
Raspberry Lavender Gelato

4 c. Red Raspberries (thawed if frozen)

1 c. granulated sugar

2 1/4 c. half-and-half, divided

6 large egg yolks

1/4 c. fat free powdered milk

1 c. heavy cream
2 tsp. pure vanilla extract

2 Tbsp. dried edible lavender flowers

a few drops of red food coloring (optional to enhance color)

Place raspberries in a food processor fitted with the metal “s” blade or in a blender (if using a blender, 2 cups at a time for best results). Process until completely pureed and smooth. Press raspberry puree through fine mesh sieve with a spatula. Toss out the seeds and you should be left with about 2 cups of puree. Set this aside.

Mix sugar and 1 1/4 cups of the half-and-half in a 2 1/2 qt heavy bottom saucepan, add lavender. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and stir to dissolve the sugar. Keep warm over low heat. Place the egg yolks in a medium bowl and whisk until thickened, about 2 minutes. While whisking, add 1/2 cup of the hot half-and-half/sugar mixture and whisk until blended. Stir the egg mixture back into the saucepan; increase heat to medium. Stir the mixture constantly until it is thick like a custard sauce and registers 180º with an instant read thermometer.

Stir in remaining half-and-half, powdered milk and heavy cream. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve. Stir in reserved raspberry puree, vanilla and optional food coloring. A natural substitute could be beet juice, if you would rather. This may slightly affect the taste, but I haven’t tried. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours before continuing. Turn the machine on and pour your chilled mixture into the frozen bowl. Mix until thickened, about 20-25 minutes. The gelato will have a soft, creamy texture.

Dear Readers,

2010-08-13T17:45:00.003-05:00

As I sit down to write this post, I do so with the concern of my readers. It was not too long ago when I received an email from a lovely woman whom I do not know. She had read through my blog and reached out to me to share her views on abortion. Although most of her letter was quite innocent and complimentary, the bulk of her email was directed towards my pro-life view in regards to abortion. She was Pro-choice.

To quote her directly, she emailed “I just wanted to share with you that I didn't think all supporters of Pro-Choice are evil abortion seeking crazy people.”

Well, I don't believe people who are Pro-Choice are evil or crazy or abortion-seeking either. I sincerely regret if I have ever given off that impression. And for the moderate record, I do not think that abortion is wrong in the cases of rape, incest, or when the mother’s life is in danger.

That being said, as much as her email weighed deeply on my heart, I cannot type this post without defending the unborn child. We live in world of convenience and ease. Things are rarely difficult. When things are not as we please, we look for the easy way out. Abortion to many seems like the easy way out, but they would be very wrong. Abortion (in almost all cases) is the wrong choice and it will be the most difficult in the long run.

We like to focus on abortions of women who have been severely abused, raped, or women whose lives are in danger. For those women, abortion certainly is an option to be carefully considered. But the truth of the whole is that the majority of abortions do not happen due to those circumstances. The majority of abortions are done due to the woman being inconvenienced of having a baby or babies inside of her.

I have sat in my living room more than once with women who have either chosen abortion or have sat in abortion clinic offices yearning to know what to do. To my amazement, many of the women I know had the courage to walk out of those clinics, carry their children, and chose to parent or chose parents for their beautiful child.

Many may be thinking, what does she even know? She has never been pregnant. She has never been single and had an abusive boyfriend with no job. How can she judge? She does not know my situation or my life.

You are right. I do not. But I have reaped of the beauty of those who have chosen life. And to them I am forever indebted to. Nor can I turn the other cheek in regards to those who have the gift of carrying life and instead of bearing it with grace – terminate.

No, I do not think “supporters of Pro-Choice are evil abortion seeking crazy people.”

But I do think choosing abortion under most circumstances is very wrong.

To those who are considering abortion – there are other choices. There are many many many beautiful choices. Abortion may seem like the easy way out. It is not. Not in the long run. The decision to parent your child or find parents for your child, may seem daunting but I have spoken with enough mothers who have chosen life that I feel beyond comfortable promising you that God’s spirit will attend you and your decision will be one you can be proud of for an eternity to come. I am not saying it will be easy. Yet, Life is always a most beautiful choice.

I am filled with gratitude to all who choose life under difficult circumstances – who choose to give a life instead of take it.

Below is a children’s book that I’ve written for my little ones. In some ways, it’s related to this sensitive topic. I hope to have it published into a book for my children with beautiful pictures. Thank you to all who have chosen life!

I Love Your Birthmommy

(copyrighted)
by Loralee Lewis

I love your birthmommy.

I love your birthmommy so very much, because she loves you so very much.

She carried you even when it hurt, because she loves you.

She kept your life in her tummy, even when it wasn't easy, because she loves you.

She wanted with all her heart to take care of you, but she wasn't able to give you what she wanted you to have or what she knew you needed.

She knew you needed a mommy and a daddy.

She wanted a mommy who would always be home to take care of you.

She wanted a daddy who would always be there for you no matter what.

She knew you needed a home that was safe and warm.

She wanted you to have a mommy who would have chocolate chip cookies for you when you got home from school and a big hug when you were sad.

She wanted you to have a daddy to help you with your math when it was hard and cheer the loudest when you did yourself proud!

There are times when she wonders about you, worries about you, and hopes you are okay.

I'm not saying she is perfect. I'm not perfect. She probably has made mistakes just as I have.

But one thing I know for sure is that you were not a mistake.

You are here with me just as she and God planned.

She loves you so very much. Just as much as I love you!

And that's why I love your birthmommy.

News

2010-08-12T14:25:00.002-05:00

I was inspired by a client's request for an invitation to a couples shower last week. Their theme, vintage picnic. It is going to be one fancy affair! Boy, what I wouldn't do to live a little closer so I could attend! It would be a delight to say the least. So many of my cute clients ask me to attend their events and it really does take EVERYTHING I have not to say yes! yes! YES! and spend every dime they just paid me to get on a plane and be there within 24 hours! As you know, I have a weakness for parties, especially good ones.

In other news, within the last week: Lee has had pneumonia, Ethan has had Bronchitis, Miss V has had bilateral ear infections and early set Bronchitis, and I have had borderline something? Boston on the other hand has been the healthiest of us all and just has a slight cough! I guess when it rains, it pours. But we are all doing much much better now. I got the kids on antibiotics pronto once I found out it could interfere with them starting preschool next week. I'm a little anxious for school to start. What can I say? It's been a long hot summer. Fourteenth day in a row over 100 here actually. Not that any one is counting.

In better news, we put an offer on a new home!

I am so hoping we are going to be able to get it. I've got my fingers crossed. The home needs quite a bit of fix up work, but I am in love with it for some odd reason despite the broken everything. I hope we get it.

We are putting our current home up for sale this week! I hope this one sells too!

In even better news, I received a late night text from my little sister that read:

"I've got something sparkly on my hand!"

In true Mormon style, they are scheduled to be wed in only two months!

With my other sister, Kristie's, baby due on October 2nd, my mom may lose all her hair. I'm not worried. We can always get her a wig for the wedding. And no one can pull off a wedding like my Sandra Anderson Living. Between her, Annie, my Aunt Sherral...(oh! and the bride who is so exquisite with flowers and decor she has decorated the main Christmas Trees for Temple Square, Grand America and the Joseph Smith building to name just a few) - I doubt a sixty day deadline is going to be a problem. But that doesn't mean anything as far as hair loss. Hair loss may be a problem. Nothing is unstressful in the Anderson household. Well, very little. There is a lot of creative estrogen. I am excited to get V a princess dress to match Livy and Lainey...and tiny tuxes for my little men.

And in keeping with the good news spirit, I wanted to let everyone know that Lee has his eye surgery scheduled for the end of September. Hallelujah. It truly has been a trial in our life. I am so glad he is going to be able to see out of both eyes soon!

In unrelated news, I also designed this little invite for a little girl who is having a show-and-tell pet party!

Fifteen

2010-08-10T22:10:00.002-05:00

Daily, my Miss V wraps here little arms around my neck and softly says into my ear,

"Best friends. We're best friends, Mommy."

And we really are.

I know her every fear, her every tear, and almost every thought.
I know her dislikes, her loves,
what makes her mad and what can brush every worry away.

But I also know that she is growing up.

And one day she will be fifteen.

She will have crushes on boys, expensive cell phone plans, and a high school full of friends.

And my only prayer is that at fifteen...and sixteen...and thirty one...

I will still know her every fear, every tear, and almost every thought.

My goal is that then I will have been the kind of mother that

she will still throw her little arms around my neck and softly say,

"Best friends. We are best friends, Mommy."

A Fancy Nancy Inspired Affair

2010-08-09T12:47:00.004-05:00

A few days ago, I showed a sneak peek of my Fancy Nancy inspired invitations and party items from my Loralee Lewis & Co. . I was creating the items for a very fancy four year old's birthday soirée, Miss Jessie Ann! This weekend was her fabulous event and my little diva got to go! Here are a few photos of event!

The invitations

The cupcakes!

Ordinary cupcake toppers simply wouldn't do! Ours had to have tulle and marabou!

Photos from the party!

Of course, I forgot my camera, but luckily Jessie's mom emailed me the below shots. Here are a few things that were or were not photographed that I thought were oh-so-tres-chic.

1) Jessie's mom created a little table with crystal dishes on it filled with colorful beads. Each of the girls made their very own necklaces. I created little signs for each color of beads that said things like:
Aquarmarine
(That's a fancy shade of blue!)
or
Buttercup
(That's a fancy way of saying yellow!)

The girls thought this was very grown up.

2) Each girl got a little black favor purse filled with a mini nail polish and stick on earrings. I blinged out the handbags with tulle, stick on jewels, and a label that said Merci Beaucoup.

3) Jessie's mom came up with the idea of having a banner that said Fancy Four! So we whipped one up and hung it with a boa.

4) Due to peanut allergies of some of the pint-sized guests, Jessie's mom kept the food easy. Instead of doing fancy cucumber sandwhiches which would have made three and four year olds tongue curl, she ordered pizza! I thought this was adorable because it was perfect for a little girl birthday and wasn't trying so hard! The girls loved it.

5) We blinged out the water bottles with glitz ribbon and stick on jewels telling the girls it was fresh spring water - which is fancier than water jsut from the tap.

6) Ring pops were used as napkin rings!

7) I created oversized place cards for each girl with "fancy" by their name. This helped to eliminate fighting over seats! It's funny how even at 3 and 4, girls love to know where they are sitting!

And just in case you were worried about the succes of the event, here is a photo of my three-year-old Miss V in her car seat on the way home. I think it's safe to say, she felt pretty good about herself and very fancy! Thanks, Miss Jessie for letting us be a part of your very fancy soirée. It was spelidferous!

Blog to you soon,

What I've been up to lately...

2010-08-08T23:48:00.001-05:00

The Texas heat has driven me indoors! I am counting the days until I can feel the first fall breeze! I am trying to channel autumn via my new blog banner. I fell in love with the heels in the leaves! In the meantime, I design upstairs in my office wearing a swimsuit or cotton dress with my hair in a ponytail when my little ones go down for their mid afternoon naps. Here is what I've come up with. You'll notice my midsummer's dream of fall in some of them...

The Berry Sweet Birthday Collection
This invitation I just finished this weekend. It was inspired by a client who purchased a Janie & Jack dress we both fell in love with. Her daughter is going to wear it at the party. SO CUTE! This has cupcake toppers, thank you notes, address labels, and stickers that coordinate.

The Guess Whooo's Halloween Owl Invitation

This one will have coordinating cupcake toppers and stickers, but I haven't designed them yet. I can't believe people are already buying Halloween invitations! I guess I'm not the only one wanting fall to come sooner!

The Halloween Bash Collection Invitation & Cupcake Toppers

Like I said, I'm feeling fall! And yes...I know clock is spelled wrong in this one!

The Ladybug Birthday Collection Invitation, Thank you note, & Cupcake Toppers

This one was designed for no one in particular. V is scard of ladybugs.

The Popsicle Collection Invitation

I love little Ethan's hand holding it up in the second photo!

A popsicle party would be so fun in this heat! We basically have one every day here!

Popsicles before 11am, I wouldn't call unusual.

The Wizard of Oz Technicolor Collection Invitation

I love the idea of a Wizard of Oz party - so I made two different ones!

These will have coordinating thank you notes, cupcake toppers, etc. in the near future.

The Wizard of Oz Color Collection Invitation

Lee likes this one better. I like the Technicolor one.

The Milk & Cookies Collection Invitation

I was originally inspired to make this invite for some sweet sweet friends who had the cutest idea of a baked goods good bye party. I am revamping it right now with coordinating thank you notes and stickers for a lady who is doing a big bakery party for her daughter! How fun! I can't believe how creative people are!

The Fancy Nancy Inspired Invitation & Cupcake ToppersI made these for a dear friend and her adorable daughter, Jessie. This weekend was the party and it was fancy, to say the least! I'll post more photos soon! Vienna got to go and she couldn't stop talking about it all day!

The Vintage Tea Party Collection Invitation, Thank you note, & Registry Card

This one comes in Pink & Blue or chocolate & Blue. I have been doing a lot of baby showers with this one! I originally made this one for my best friend's sister-in-law's baby shower a few weeks back. The mother-to-be loved tea parties and tea pots and so I designed this for her event. I changed the colors to blue and chocolate so it would work for boy showers too.

Oh, the kiddos are awake! Better run!

I'll be back soon with updated photos of my little ones!

Dreaming of fall,

The Big Reveal

2010-08-05T17:04:00.001-05:00

New haircut!

New camera!

Here is the Before & After...

Before

...and After.

(drumroll, please.)

Trying my best to stay cool,

Ice Princess Straws, Cool Jewels, and Bone Chillers!

2010-07-30T12:52:00.006-05:00

Is it just me? Or is it hot?!? The Texas heat is killing this blondie. I just keep praying for fall...or at least an 80 degree wind to blow by. Don't believe me? You should see my personal blog's new look. It's high heels in fallen leaves. What can I say? I am dreaming of fall.

But the Texas heat has me dreaming of some other things as well...one of these things being ice molds! I have been OBSESSED lately with Fred & Friends adorable ice molds and chiller straws! They are so cute! I've been staring at them in my office while the fan blows my hair (and sweat) from my face! :)

Have you seen these?!?
Where were these adorable Ice Princess straws two years ago when I had Miss V's Pixie Princess Party?!?

They would be fun for a ice princess party too! Fred and Friend's ice palace was also adorable for little princesses. The dinosaur bones were a little too much for me tonight, but let's be honest - boys would literally eat them up.

Of course, I fell in love with the cool jewels . They would be perfection at a diamond themed bachelorette party or my Fancy Nancy inspired affair I'm working on now.

I think I would just die to have these bone chillers at my Halloween bash?!? (All puns completely intended.)

Dreaming of cool things...like fall, Ice Princess Straws, Cool Jewels ...or even an 80 degree wind...talk to you soon,

Matching

2010-07-30T02:20:00.002-05:00

I'd say a solid 89% of my sons' wardrobes match.

It's to the point now that they kind of get concerned when they aren't matching.

That hasn't slowed me down.

Some may say that I am not allowing personal individuality. That I'm teaching conformity.

Well, conformity never looked so cute.

And these two are too incredibly themselves to ever be considered one of the crowd

...even if they are wearing the same thing.

(I will neither confirm nor deny that the boys have the above coordinating ensemble

in blue, orange, red, and yellow as well.)

They will probably die when they see these photos later,

but I am having so much fun right now!

Fall Fashion Preview

2010-07-29T08:53:00.001-05:00

School Shopping this week!

Here's a little sneak peek of fall fashion from my iphone.

There may or may not be a full fall runway show in the not-so-distant future.

I love dressing my little models!

Blog to you soon,

New Alice in Wonderland Children's Invitation

2010-07-19T10:56:00.001-05:00

In an effort to stay out of the Texas heat, I've been doing a lot more designing lately. Below are my new Alice in Wonderland invitations! I am so excited about them!

In other related news, I have moved my Etsy Shoppe. You can now find me here. If you feel so inclined, please feel free to rate, review, and/or heart my items. I now am under the username: LoraleeLewis.

A few people have recently asked me about the images I use in my designs. All my items include hand designed images that either a) are created in house (read: me or my mom draw them!) with copyright b)images that have been legally purchased for this type of distribution or c) images that after extensive research are believed to be completely free from copyright. I believe in honesty in design and distribution. At the moment, I'm creating a Fancy Nancy inspired invitation and being very careful not to infringe upon any rights of the author or illustrator. I hope people would do the same with my designs.

Trying to stay out of the Texas heat!

Ethan's Beach Birthday Party!

2010-07-16T11:25:00.005-05:00

It’s Birthday season here in the Lewis home! All my sweeties have summer birthdays and so we are in full-swing celebration mode! After Boston’s Safari Adventure a few weeks ago with the whole family in Utah, I knew we needed to do something special for Ethan! My Mr. Sunshine loves everything that has to do with the beach and daily asks me to teach him how to surf! (I wish I knew!) In honor of this and having four years of Mr. Sunshine on this earth, I decided to hold a Beach Birthday party at our home here in Texas! Here are the photos from the event, as well as a little slideshow of the little wet guests that attended!

The Princess & The Frog

2010-07-16T00:00:00.002-05:00

Back soon,

Label Me!

2010-07-14T12:57:00.002-05:00

I am just here preparing for my Ethan's Beach Birthday Party this afternoon and I thought I'd share some of the photographs from my preparation - as well as one of my favorite no fuss party tips.
(Special Note: All photos taken with iphone. Don't expect quality. Observation only! I'll post the finished product after the celebration!)

Labels are a bit of a religion for me.
Remember how I had a major craft crush on paper doilies earlier this year?
Well, I still adore paper doilies
- but they are so February right now. Labels are my "skip a heartbeat" of the summer.
I utililized them with my dear Boston's Safari Adventure Party but am taking them to another level for my Ethan's Beach party today.

To major party throwers, labels may be old news. But I urge you to gander back to the label aisle and fall in love all over again. There is just so much you can do to your event simply by praising the label. I obviously have. They are simple, chic, and make you look great without breaking a sweat.
What else could you possible want from a paper good?
Below are iphone photos of my kitchen counter this afternoon as I'm preparing for Ethan's party and my label overload. I can't wait to show you the finished part!!! Wish me luck!

Below are photos from other events that we've utilized the blessing of labels!
Oh, the versatility of my craft crush!

Our Mad Scientist Halloween Party

Boston's Safari Adventure Party

Harvest Soup Affair

Santa's Breakfast 2008

Holiday Girlfriend Cookie Exchange

Loralee's little Tips on using labels:
1) Have a Cricut scallop handy. It will make peeling the label off without crinkling easy!
2) Wear a little pair of rubber gloves so that you don't leave fingerprints on them.
3) Purchase generic brand labels. Avery brand is always more expensive and you can easily find templates on line.
4) Look for labels with "TrueBlock Technology." These are labels that you will not be able to see through once applied. Regular labels you may have to put two labels on top of each other in order for other colors to show through.

Well, I better start getting back to party preparing! My guests arrive at five! I'll post photos of Ethan's party finished soon!

Blog to you soon,

Got Milk?

2010-07-13T20:45:00.004-05:00

I buy three gallons of milk each week.

One for Lee.

One for the kids.
And one for the floor.

P.S. I would love to have Christie Brinkley's hair...and everything else physical for that matter.

Putting my head on her body just convinced me to drink milk.

Lots of it.

The millions of dollars milk manufacturers spent on advertising worked like a charm.

I am going to the store now to buy myself a gallon.

Well, that's four now.

One for me to look like Christie.

One for Lee.

One for the kids.

And one for the floor.

Blog to you soon,

Snatch Happiness

2010-07-12T23:34:00.003-05:00

We have all had those days.

The kind of day that may look like this.

Or perhaps this.

Or even as devastating as this.

I know we have all had those days.

But once in awhile, you get those other days.

The days that stick to your heart like glue.

Days that can never be erased from your memory

because they were such a delight to the soul.

I had one of those perfect days in February.

It snowed in Texas a lot.

And my munchkins looked like this.

You couldn't wipe the smiles off their faces if you tried.

Okay, maybe it wasn't that perfect.

But it was a good good day.

The kind of day you just want to stop and live forever.

I made homemade soup and homemade rolls.

Lee stayed home from work.

After hours of fun in the snow together, we warmed up our tummies with the food.

Then we climbed into our big bed and watched movies together.

It felt like Heaven on Earth to me.

Then the electricity went out...

for two days.

But it was still a very good day.

It sticks to my heart like glue.

Even months later, I love thinking about that day.

"Happiness is not given to us in a package that we can just open up and consume. Nobody is ever happy 24 hours a day, seven days a week...we perhaps need to snatch happiness in little pieces, learning to recognize the elements of happiness and then treasuring them while they last."

- James E Faust, "Our Search for Happiness", Ensign Oct. 2000, 2.

Blog to you soon,

How to: Birthday Burlap Banner

2010-07-12T12:59:00.003-05:00

This burlap banner is an easy way to add a little fresh detail to your celebration. It is simple and it's not something you would necessarily see at a friend's birthday. I did one for my sweet Boston's safari party and today I am making one for my son Ethan's Beach Party Birthday this Wednesday. I can't wait to show you photos! I think these little banners are perfect for summer events. Although, I am excited to reuse this idea in a less rustic form for Halloween as well using orange burlap! So without further ado, here's how to make one...

What you need:
Burlap
Scissors
Twine or rope
pre-Cut Letters
Stapler (or your choice of adhesive)
Black Sharpie

Here's what you do:

Cut your burlap into large squares.
They absolutely don't need to be perfect matching squares.
This is for a party - not your wedding! Plus, a rustic feel is part of the cuteness factor here.

Place your letters onto your burlap. Being sure they are centered.

Staple away!
You could easily use fabric adhesive if you would rather. I chose a stapler simply because both of my children's birthdays were outside and I was afraid of them falling off with the wind.

Once you are finished with all your letters, take a black Sharpie marker and go over each staple so they will not show!

Fray the ends of each letter's square.
You may want to keep a window open. Burlap has a distinct strong aroma when working with it.
Cut a small sliver of a hole on the top two corners of each letter. Be sure not to cut too large of a hole. Or too near your fray.
Lace your twine or rope through each of your letter sqaures.

Display your fantastic banner at your event!
Accept all lavish compliments.
If someone asks you how you made it, be sure to make it sound complicated.

You can add ribbons if you like!

I've got to run now to finish Ethan's banner for his beach party this Wednesday!
I'll definitely post photos of the finished product...and party!

Blog to you soon,

Happy Birthday, Mr. Boston!

2010-07-08T16:47:00.001-05:00

It was one year ago, on July 5th, our sweet Boston was born. I remember the day brilliantly. It was around three in the afternoon, the day after Fourth of July. Out of nowhere we got the phone call, our baby had arrived! Up until this point, we didn't know if we were having a boy or a girl! I would have sworn on my own grave that we were getting a girl. I had even washed and pressed all Vienna's newborn outfits. Ethan and Lee kept telling me it was for sure going to be a boy.

I have never been so happy to be wrong...and Lee right!

Our beautiful birthmother called and said, "You've got a little boy!"

"He is here waiting for you!"

I don't think Lee and I have ever got into a car so fast!

In just 20 short minutes, we were at the Hospital. Naturally, I fell completely a part in the car. I was overjoyed and a mess! Mascara nearly everywhere. Our little boy had arrived. Oh my goodness.

I do not pretend to hold the talent to describe the feelings a mother has before meeting her child for the first time. It is indescribable. Your heart is overjoyed and fluttery and anxious, but you are filled with an immense peace as well. You could break into tears at any moment, you feel fragile and strong at the same exact time... and oh-so proud. Here is your son. Here is your tiny child that God has appointed you. How could you be entrusted with such tiny perfection? When could you have done anything to deserve this? And then there is also that vote of confidence from Heaven you feel which moves your heart towards action of being more than you are - to rise to the occasion of being in the presence and raising this spirit. I cannot describe it - but it is wonderful.

There was some drama at the hospital. They wouldn't let us see our baby boy - even though the birthmother was telling the staff that she wanted us bonding with the baby from that moment on. It was a Sunday. Sundays for adoptive parents at hospitals are the opposite of heaven. Social workers aren't on call. Red tape is everywhere. They turned us away at the hospital. They told us to go home and maybe tomorrow if the social worker showed up - we could see our baby. They didn't really realize who they were talking to. This wasn't my first rodeo! My baby was in that hospital and needing to be with his mommy!!! Paperwork had been signed. Needless to say, sixty minutes and a few heated calls later - Lee and I were scrubbing in to enter the nursery. The hospital staff was apologetic and adorable.

I walked into the nursery and my breath was taken away. There under a heated lamp with only a tiny white diaper on was the most beautiful little baby boy I had ever seen. I asked the nurse if I could touch him. She said, yes. As I placed my hand on this little newborn back, the most perfect peace came over my soul. It was a stillness that quieted and slowed the pace of every breath. It was at this moment that I knew God was telling me who this little boy was and what he would later become. He wasn't any one's little boy - he was mine - and I was privileged to have him. God answers our deepest prayers in the most profound quiet ways.

A year later, we couldn't be more in love. Boston is so much more than we could have ever wanted. His superb personality has delighted us to the core and continues to do so daily. Something I can honestly say about Big B (and all my children) is that I know God must love me because He gave me him.

God trusts us so much more than we know. He sees so much more in us than we allow ourselves to believe. He beckons the best out of us even as we fearfully step forward. And just like our Boston, He truly gives us more than we deserve. I'm so grateful to a God who would give me such a beautiful gift as Boston.

Happy Birthday B! We love you,

Boston's Safari Adventure Birthday!

2010-07-06T13:45:00.002-05:00

Birthdays, especially first birthdays, are big deal in my home. Often we have little control over timing of when our kiddos will land in our overjoyed arms! The regular planning and showers that accompany a pregnancy - definitely do not apply. This was the case with Boston. We were matched with him on June 3rd and told he was due June 4th! Luckily, he didn't arrive until July 5th! Due to Lee's eyes at the time - I didn't get the chance to throw him a welcome party or sip and see. To counterbalance the lack of planning, I enjoy making first birthdays extra special. This year, we flew to Utah from Texas in order to celebrate with the whole family! Annie was kind enough to host the event in her beautiful backyard! Thanks, Annie!
We are thrilled and feel beyond blessed that God sent this little spirit miraculously to our home.

Here are a few of the details of Boston's Safari Adventure Birthday!

First things first, here is the Birthday Boy.

A perfection confection. I can't help but kiss him day and night!
I chose a safari theme because I call him my little Simba, my little baby lion cub.

Okay, one more photo of him and then back to the party...

Here is the tablescape!

I wanted my adult guests to enjoy the party and not have to worry about if their child wanted potato chips or cheetoes. Lunch sacks were the perfect solution. I filled each lunch sack with peanut butter sandwhiches, carrot sticks, grapes, 1/2 banana, and mini whole milks and water bottles. This kept the kids happy and the parents free to enjoy the party! I place a humorous Park Management Warning label on each sack – more for my enjoyment than the children’s.

I printed the invitation onto labels for the water bottles.

Here are the favor bags. Tucked inside each animal print bag was a cellophane bag filled with animal crackers. It was inexpensive and something I knew families with little ones would definitely use! You go through a lot of animal crackers with toddlers!

To save time and effort, I made a bag for each family invited in lieu of each guest. This kept it easy for parents ...and me!

Before I had kids and \traveled for work to Europe, I would live on Kinder's Happy Hippos during late night work sessions. I love them

Naturally, I orderd fifty of each flavor for Boston's Safari Party. It was the perfect excuse.

Happy Hippos are so cute, they deserve two photos! We lined them up on a blue plate. .

Annie and her husband John cut out large sillhouettes of safari animals for the event. To keep it simple and easy, we painted them solid bright colors and placed them around the yard. They were a huge hit! The kids loved "going on a safari" to find them! Here are a few of the animals:

We also did a fun sign with arrows pointing towards the "Grasslands," "Safari Lodge", etc.

To keep the men folk out of the food while we were preparing (the cupcakes were a problematic temptation), Annie and I had them set up a "safari" tent for the kids to enjoy and escape the heat!

The munchkins absolutley loved it.

More decor.

A few family shots!

Lee and I with our Boston.

John with Alyvia looking for game!

Oma and Baby Boston!

Annie and her princess.

Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness!

2010-07-03T16:14:00.001-05:00

You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism. ~Erma Bombeck

A few treats we've whipped up for the occasion...

I love our America!

Happy Independence Day,

Boston's Birthday Invitations!

2010-07-01T23:49:00.001-05:00

While in Utah, we celebrated our little Boston's 1st Birthday just a teensy bit early with all the families!
It was a delight to say the least. Here are the invitation postcards I designed for his Safari Adventure Birthday. Due to the busy-ness of the trip, I didn't get them out to everyone who came. I guess that is just how it goes sometimes! Tomorrow I'll find the time to post photos of the celebration!
Thank you to everyone for making it such a special day for him!!

Back with Photos of Safari Boston Tomorrow,

Possibly the Cutest Fishing Trip Ever

2010-06-30T10:32:00.002-05:00

What better way to spend Father's Day weekend then fishing with your Dad and Grandpa?

Best Laid Plans

2010-06-16T11:03:00.002-05:00

Sometimes we see a movie or hear a song that puts an image of life being ideal in our mind. But life is not like that. Life is not a movie and it's not a romantic song. It's real. It's a beautiful perfect mess. Even when things work out perfectly.

I was on a phone call with my best friend several weeks ago. We love to share everything. While we were chatting away, she was staring at a walkway outside her window. In the middle of the conversation, she said "Loralee, I'm looking at the sweetest thing."  My best friend went on to describe this adorable couple strolling down the walkway. They had a newborn baby bundled to the point you couldn't see him or her and the mother was pushing the stroller very very slowly and the father was walking backwards just as slowly. They were being so careful walking their newborn down the walkway; both were radiating love. From my friend's perspective it was obvious that these were brand new parents and they were out for one of their first family strolls. We talked about them for quite a while. The image she described stuck in my mind. "How precious!" I thought, "A newborn baby is one of the most magical things on Earth and what a special time for that couple to have just born a baby and stroll down the walkway together in slow peace. It's just as it should be."

Throughout the few weeks following that phone conversation with my best friend, I thought about that couple quite a few times. It was around this time that our birthmother from our failed adoption in October called and said that she had reconsidered and wanted to fly her sweet baby down to us and sign the papers. But there were hiccups and drama along the way. The birthfather (although not being a proper father in any way we would describe one) was threatening legal action and I could feel that the birthmother wasn't perfectly solid in her decision. Her family was dead against it - even though it truly was the best thing for the baby. Drama ensued. We decided that we could not help her bring the baby down. She would need her to pay for her flight and commit, if she truly was wanting to place. We had already spent five thousand dollars on this adoption failing once, we needed to have her investment. For a few days I believed she was just bluffing, but then she bought her flight and she got on a plane to place her baby with us.

During this time, I kept thinking of the couple my friend described and their newborn baby. I kept thinking to myself, "That's exactly how it should be. It should be simple and easy to have children come in to your life and they should come in a peaceful idealistic way. That's the way the Lord intended it." I questioned all the drama that was swirling around me. On one hand, I felt that the Lord had led this little prospective daughter to us; there had been miracles on the way. On the other hand, the theatrics of it all were a complete turn off.

Then one day, right before the baby arrived, I was driving alone in my car up my street. I was thinking about that couple again - how I thought babies were supposed to arrive. I had that ideal image in my mind and I was talking to God about it. The way this baby was arriving was not the way I had intended it to. It was hard.

I then had a flashback. A memory flooded my mind of me driving up that same exact street four years before. I was on the way to the airport to fly to Uganda for the upteenth time to try to get my Ethan and I didn't want to go. I was emotionally drained and the chance we would get Ethan were slim. I was filled with anxiety. Similar to the anxiety I was experiencing about this new baby arriving. I awoke from my flashback and I heard and felt God whisper into my ear in no uncertain terms, "Loralee, I do not send you easy babies. I send you your babies. You take them how they come for they are yours and no one else's."

I thought about my dear Ethan and I started to cry. How selfish I was being for telling the Lord how and when I wanted my babies to arrive - when He was sending me my babies as fast and as easy (and at the right time) as He could. I didn't want just any baby. I wanted my babies - and how they came was how they came. I didn't care how many times I had to drive up that street with anxiety. It was my street and they were my babies. And it was all worth it.

As every one knows by now, the baby came and went. For whatever reason, it did not work out. But I will be forever grateful for that experience because it was a not-so-subtle reminder to a stubborn woman.  As I look at my Ethan and my Vienna and my Boston, I realize that life is not a fairytale ending - but it does work out perfectly.

To top off the experience with a cherry, my best friend called the other day.   She had ran into the couple again. This time she got to see the sweet baby inside the stroller.  She peered in to see a little brown baby. The couple had adopted.    Now I don't know the couple and I don't know their story, but I imagine that it wasn't as ideal of process getting their sweet first child as I had made up in my mind in the beginning. I also don't doubt that it was no accident my best friend ran into them again. It was the Lord reminding me of the sweet blessings He has given a Blondie in Texas and that He expects me to welcome them in any terms they come. He knows me too well.

I send this message out to all who are struggling with a life issue that isn't going as planned. I am slowly learning that the Lord has a plan that is so much bigger and better and more mine - than any of the best laid plans I have floating idealistically in my thoughts.

Blog to you soon,

Jerseylicious Tuesday at Lee's Work

2010-06-15T21:33:00.001-05:00

I have no words.

Man Catcher Pie!

2010-06-04T13:03:00.001-05:00

My dream woman, Paula Deen, told me that this pie was a man-catcher.
I generally take Paula at her word.
But I'll be honest, I was a bit skeptical.
"Man Catcher" isn't what I would call a small statement.
It's a serious accusation.
So I gave it a try.

She was not kidding.
This is what my husband looks like when I see him now.

I'm not saying that it's No Fuss.
But I am saying it's fabulous...
and perfect for Father's Day!
Find the recipe here.

Have fun man-catching,

Texas Safari!

2010-05-31T09:34:00.001-05:00

We had a ton of fun this weekend on our faux sarari at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center! It was amazing! The animals get real close and personal. I had to remind the kiddos that when we take them on "real" safaris, they won't generally get to feed the animals! I can't wait for my family to come in town and to take them! We all loved it.

Blog to you soon,

True American Idols

2010-05-28T10:23:00.001-05:00

Seeing these men as someone's babies,

Perfection

2010-05-28T10:21:00.001-05:00

Basically, Lee and I think you are staring at perfection.

Celestial perfection.

Boston's personality is not over the top.
I relate his personality to honey being dripped on to pancakes.
It's beyond sweet, slow, subtle and easy to love once it arrives on your plate.
A southern charmer would be a fitting description.

He has stolen our hearts and we'll never let him give them back.

This weekend, I'm thinking about all the mom's out there whose little boys grew up

and went to fight so I could be free.

Those little boys gave all for our country...and so did their mom's.

To them, I say thank you.

Surf's Up!

2010-05-25T07:44:00.001-05:00

As previously discussed, Ethan is planning on learning to surf this summer. I don't know when he decided this or where he is going to learn, but it's something that comes up more than a lot. I have no idea where it came from. I don't surf. Lee doesn't surf. But I guess we are going to need to learn because Ethan is sold on it. Apparently Ethan has been teaching Vienna all about it as well. Whenever she put her swimsuit on now - this is the pose she strikes. The phrase, "Let's surf, Ethan!" is said five or six times during the pose.

So I guess we need to plan on finding a beach

...and toddler surfing lessons

...if they exist.

Ideas welcome.

Hand Me Downs

2010-05-24T14:44:00.006-05:00

Then...

Now...

I didn't think it was possible to love a faded romper this much.

My princess is my world,

but every soul should raise a few little boys.

They change your heart...

and the way you see things...

like faded rompers.

Celebrating hand me downs and my little boys,

Hot Mom Summer Must-Haves

2010-05-21T13:04:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, the kids and I arrived at a promised Zoo trip at 3:40.
The zoo closes at 5:00.
As I sped past the zebras and cockatoos
(pushing three little ones in a double stroller in 90 degree weather)
to capture the much-loved rhino while bathing,
I had an epiphany.

Motherhood in the summer is hot.

I know...I know...
My wisdom knows no bounds.
It's simply earth-shattering.

But in all honesty, motherhood in summer is hot.

Motherhood in summer is hot.

Ladies, we've got to be prepared.

We want to look hot - not feel hot.
We want to look fresh - not sweaty.
We want to look updated - not run-down.
We want to look together - not sweating from every pour where are my keys?!? frownie face.

So without further ado, here is a list of 9 items this Texas-hottie has learned the hard way that you have to for a mandatory no fuss fabulous summer...
Leave me yours!

1. Two pairs of sunglasses - One cheap pair. One designer pair. I take the cheap pair to SeaWorld for my one year old to tear off during the Shamu Show and the designer pair when I'm out on a hot summer night with my honey.

2. Waterproof Mascara - no explanation needed. Stock up.

3. St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse - Find it here. Best sunless tanning ever. Dancing with the Stars uses it - but don't let that change your mind from purchasing. You want to be tan - not have age spots.

4. A great large brimmed hat - Find one here, here, or here. You can pull it off. I promise. You are fabulous.

5. Sunscreen wipes - Find them here. Much easier than lotion or sprays for you and the kiddos!

6. Sugar-free popsicles - The 15 calorie ones at the grocery store are fantastic. You eat 10 of them and it's like a bowl of cereal. Sign me up.

7. A Cover Up You Love - I don't care whether you weigh 89 lbs or 890 lbs. You need a cover up and you need to love it. You need to feel awesome. Find a variety here or here.

8. Sun dresses (at least 4 of them) - If you live in a sunny city, sun dresses are the key to keeping cool. Find adorable (and modest!!) dresses here.

9. Over-sized Summer Tote - When you are off the beach, you want everything in one place. You don't want to be looking through a plefora of handbags during your vacay. A large tote with alternating storage pockets and storage is a life saver. There are many inexpensive versions. Here is one of my favorites for Target.

Blog to you soon,

Watch Out Summer...

2010-05-20T13:19:00.003-05:00

...Here we come!

Mr. E told me that Summer was waiting for us the other day.

I told him that he just needed to give the go ahead

and summer would begin.

I think this photo accomplishes that.

Miss V is ready for anything ...as always.

And have I mentioned she is in love with Justin Beiber?

She saw him while I had Oprah on and it's been "Baby, baby, baby" ever since.

The two of them have big BIG big plans this summer.

Ethan has already requested to learn to surf, go to China, and ride a rollercoaster this Summer.

(He informed V she was too little to go to China. She would have to wait until next year to pack her backpack.)

I asked him what he expected to do when he was 17.

He said he would think about in four years.

I found that rather reasonable.

Speaking of big plans.

Guess what The Boss is wearing for his Safari Adventure 1st Birthday!?!

Of course, he is.

Now we're off to the Zoo...
and then to yarn-string Froot Loops.

(Unofficial) Summer is waiting for us,

Godiva Scoops Up Truffles... and My Heart!

2010-05-14T13:07:00.002-05:00

There I was.
Just window shopping away.
When Godiva stopped me in my heels.

And then I had no excuses.

Ever since Annie made that adorable freebie Neighborhood Ice Cream Social Invitation

...and I bought (and subsequently started a love affair with) my Cusinsart Stainless Steel Ice Cream Maker - trust me, you want one -
I have been throwing around the idea of hosting a Homemade Ice Cream social for me and the girlfriends!

Well, Godiva just sealed the deal.

Would these OR would these not make the cutest favors ever for an ice cream parlor party?!?

Not to mention the sweetest centerpiece!?
And it wouldn't even melt
...except my heart.

Godiva representatives assure me that these little ice cream truffles will be available all summer. Find them here.

Expect more - much more - ice cream parlor party inspiration to come!

Blog to you soon,

Born to be Best Friends

2010-05-11T21:53:00.001-05:00

Blog to you soon,

The best part of Mother's Day

2010-05-10T11:56:00.002-05:00

...is being one.

(Photo of Ethan and I - the morning after he came home to the U.S.)

To the women who made me a mother, Justine, Adrienne, and Nicole, - Thank You.

All my love,