Candlestick Table

A type of post I haven't done in awhile is my "how you get the look for less" posts...and I love those.

My latest purchase (before we were hit by the strep monster):

If look beyond my nativity scene, you will see tall, wrought iron taper candlesticks. 3 different sizes ranging from around 24" down to around 18". Bought at Hobby Lobby at 50% off. Purchase price: $10/$8.50/$7. Total (including tax) : $55

I found these Pottery Barn candle sticks (out of stock) for far more:

Large one alone $50, smaller $35...before tax. If I got 3 of each size, to get the same tablescape look, the total would be (including tax): $276

That blows my mind.
I love Pottery Barn and will happily spend gift cards there, but overall, Hobby Lobby just makes far more sense. Get the look and don't be broke. ;-)

I look forward to playing around with the candlesticks after Christmas and the nativity scene is put away.


M.LEWIS

Finn's Arrival

The more kids I have, the more time goes by in between posts...sorry about that.

I did want to write down my experience delivering Finn before too much time went by...I have my accounts of the girls, and he needs one too. :-)

Since Mr. Finnian was measuring so big for so long, they scheduled me for induction asap. His due date was 10/23 and he was scheduled for an early arrival on 10/17.

That morning we dropped the girls off at my mom's and Chris and I went to the hospital around 7am. Pitocin, antibiotics, and extra fluids in IV's by 8am. I knew the drill and we were cruising along nicely. My Dr. checked on me around 10am and said she hoped for a "lunch baby." A few hours away? OK!

I got my epidural in around 11am (I was on the fence for half of the pregnancy about getting one...the first half...due to the failure of my epidural with Addy.) and boy, was it needed. Dilation progressed quickly after the epidural and around 12:45pm and when my Dr. came in to check on me then, I was 12cm dilated (yes, 12!) and I was in a lot of pain (even with the epidural) and I wanted this baby boy out! It seemed to take forever, squeezing Chris' hand, waiting for the Dr. and nurses to set up everything. When it was time to push, I was more than ready!

It took only 3 rounds of pushing (approx 10 mins) before I was told to stop. "Oh, he's heavy." I heard my Dr. say...but that's something I knew already. ;-)  I felt some tugging, and then, I heard the best sound in the world. The cries of my Finn filled the room. He was here! I then saw his cute, chubby face and he was placed on my chest. Gooey, swollen, and beautiful, Chris and I finally met our son.

"Let's weigh him...I want to know how heavy he is." my Dr. said after about 20 minutes of cleaning and cuddling.

9lb 7oz; 20 3/4 in, Finnian George Lewis was born at 1:08pm on 10/17/16.

Big, cuddly, sweet, and the perfect addition to our family; everyone was overjoyed to have Finn in the family...especially Lorelai and Adalaide. They are the proudest and most loving of big sisters...which makes my heart happy.

While Finn is definitely my biggest baby, with the most uncomfortable pregnancy...his delivery was the fastest. Recovery took much longer with him. It may be his size, or the fact that I have 2 kids already at home, but my body took much longer to regain strength and endurance. He doesn't sleep as long as I would like at night, but we're getting there. Breastfeeding has been a struggle (just like the girls) but he is happy and healthy with supplementing with formula...actually it's more like formula with breastmilk supplementing...that's how unefficient my body is, but oh well. Yes, I know all the tips and tricks, the herbs, the vitamins, and special tea...it's just the way it is...and I'm ok with that. My pediatrician is supportive and I have no serious worries about his growing and development. I have been blessed with 3 healthy children!

Now, to tend to the little man himself...

Welcome to the world Finn, you are where you belong for sure ♥

*Please excuse spelling and grammar errors, no time for proof-reading! ;-)


-M.LEWIS

Finn's Nursery

My, oh my...it's been awhile!

Well, I do have something to write about now, and that's worth sharing...

As you know, we are expecting baby #3, and a couple weeks ago we found out this baby is a boy! We are all very excited, but of course, the name battle was waiting. Luckily, Chris and I don't spar too long on a name once we know pink or blue. This time was no different. After a week or so, we have landed on a name! Baby boy is named Finnian George Lewis. We'll call him Finn.

Once a name was in place, his nursery setup was required. I blame a little of my early preparation on nesting, but mainly on the part of my personality that likes to be organized and ready-to-go far before it's necessary. Along with his bedroom, I have to make his crocheted baby blanket (my SiL has graciously offered to make him a quilt, it's going to be lovely) and I have to make his Christmas stocking. Early? Yes. But I do not want to be cutting and sewing while holding a baby...beads, sequins...yeah, no thanks.

But first, his room.

When we built the house we made sure we had 3 bedrooms for kids...we knew we weren't done yet. It already had the baby crib, the glider and ottoman, and dresser/changing table placed. I already bought some curtains for the window and had one shelf installed.
The furniture is all dark, for it was less expensive and easy to match back when we bought it for baby Lorelai. Worked fine for the girls with their pinks and greens, and works even better with blues! Thinking long term since the beginning, we made sure none of our big baby items were gender specific. Who wants to re-buy everything?!

The theme I fell in love with for Finn? Woodland mountains. Moose, bears, pine trees, camping...it fit my style, and it was different from the apparently popular nautical themes. Boats, fishing, lighthouses...no thanks.

I painted the shelf brackets gray and covered the white shelves with dark contact paper to blend in better with the furniture (and theme) and to take away some of the delicateness from the girls' hand-me-downs.

I stuck with basic patterns and colors for the main bedding and such and made the theme an "easy to take down later" feature with inexpensive wall decals and wall hangings. It's all about long-term functionality, people.

I found a set of animal wall stickers I loved for not that much $, but I couldn't find pine trees by themselves. I made them...exactly what I wanted, and for far cheaper than I could buy. The combination worked out very well. With a trip to Hobby Lobby and Target for the other accessories, I was done pulling together the space in a few days. Thank you, Amazon Prime for being a big part of the timeline. The goal was something cute, engaging, fast, and inexpensive. DIY did play a part, and here is the results:

Just like his sisters before him, I made him his name with custom colors and patterns. The wooden letters were ~$1.50 a piece before sales/coupons at Hobby Lobby. Paint ~$1 for each color (navy, gray, sage, and light blue). Total for wooden name: ~$11.50

The tree decals I made simply from a roll of green contact paper and a roll of wood grain printed contact paper. I drew the shapes and cut them out...easy. Total for contact paper: $17

Baby blue bedding and gray crib skirt from Target. Both on sale for a total of: ~$23

The green blanket is a place-holder for my hand-made baby blanket...so much work left. (And the quilt!)

Wooden rocking horse, mine from when I was little, and random bin of toys...yeah, that's been around for a while too. 

The arrow, paddle, and stars were also purchased at Hobby Lobby. The stars came unfinished, but I had the paint at home for them already. $5 each before sale. The paddle was the "big" purchase at $17...no coupon... and the arrow was ~$12. Total for name accessories: ~$35

You can also see a close up of his patterns on his name.

Here is his mobile. It was the girls', but I stripped it of the girly parts and made my own pieces to fit my theme. Made out of felt, the mountain, teepee, tree, and arrow were a great .33c a piece buy. simply cut out and glue. The jute rope I had on hand, and I just covered the arms for some color and texture. Total for mobile makeover: ~$1.45!

Here you see some forest animal stickers and tree decals. They came in a set (more animals in a minute) from Amazon for $16. You also that I used left-over wood grain paper to cover the shelf. I painted the brackets gray with on-hand chalk paint (love that stuff) and I got the book/toy shelf from Addy's room. It never matched her stuff, so I bought her a white bookcase and stole this guy. Round about price for putting this shelf here, $18. The bins were an additional $16...the toys on the shelf, our collection compiled over the years.

More animals! Deer, hedgehog, bird, and bear...mushroom accents and another tree...price for set listed previously. I did add some grass from the left-over green paper. Clouds were made with on-hand white contact paper. No additional cost. Shelf again with wood grain paper and gray chalk paint. Bunting made from left-over felt and on-hand jute rope. Free. The 2 pictures on the shelf were bought. Blue one, from Hobby Lobby for $30 before sale (ouch! but it was too cute). The teepee one, from Target, $15. Total: ~$32

The cute arrow lamp? From Target...though it seems to be unavailable right now, sorry, no link. ~$20

Green changing pad cover, already had from the girls. No cost

Curtains were already purchased...and that coffee table needs a better home (once we clean out the closet for the baby swing, cradle, walker, etc). Raccoon buddy and bird from the animal set, and you see more trees and clouds previously mentioned. This shot has needs no listed additional cost.

Sounds like a lot? It did to me when listing it all, but it really was reasonable. Total for all new purchases: $201.95 My goal was $200...so I did go over a little bit, but not by much!

A nursery made for $200...your budget may be bigger or smaller, but I think this is one cute room for the cost. Baby Finn's room is ready!

I have to fill up his drawers and closet with boy clothes now...and yes, I have already been working on that.

I have forgotten how tiny newborn clothes are! So cute! Who ever said shopping for a boy isn't as much fun was completely wrong.

I have to finish his blanket and stocking during the summer, which is doable for sure. We're so excited for your arrival Finnian!

McKenzie's Flower

For hours now my mind has been racing, and my heart has been aching.

As many of you have know, I have been following and sharing a little girl's journey through cancer. Kenzie, 2, was diagnosed last spring/summer with neuroblastoma. Her story was shared with me by a mutual friend, and instantly, this child had my heart. She was a cute, blonde- haired, blue-eyed little girl who loved Disney princesses. I immediately saw Addy in her. Addy was also 2 at the time, and well, the rest of the similarities are evident.

I ran the #Kenzie5k and donated multiple times to their GoFundMe page (any additional donations would be greatly appreciated) and I prayed for Kenzie and her family every night. The mom in me was sure that this little girl would make it, for no mother should lose their toddler to cancer...

As the months went on, Kenzie's condition grew more complicated, and her prognosis became grim. I still prayed along with many, many others for her health to improve, her pain to disappear, and for her to feel no fear, just peace...and yet, she did not get better.

Lately, it was painful to read the updates, to see the pictures, to watch the videos...this little girl who reminded me so much of my spunky little one, was in fact, dying. She became weak, tired, more in pain, uncomfortable, and unhappy...to say the least. Tumors grew, mishaping her sweet face and paralyzing her tiny body. I would always look at Addy, even on her most difficult days, and thank God for every tantrum, every whine...for she had the energy to be 2...now 3.

Sadly, Kenzie won't have another birthday like Addy.

Kenzie died today, surrounded by her parents and family. A little soul taken far too soon.

I struggle with this. Not only for my children currently happy and healthy, but for the new baby growing inside me. This little helpless creature whom I love as much as their siblings before them. What's to say this can't happen to me? To them? They are not the only ones who are helpless.

This morning, before Kenzie's passing, I noticed something odd. I have this rosemary plant on my porch, which I have had for over 5 months. (I know, I haven't killed it, that in itself is a miracle.) Today, something was different. Today I noticed there was a single, small flower blooming in the middle of the plant. I didn't even know rosemary produced flowers...but there it was.

Fast forward to this afternoon, and I felt the strong urge to do something after hearing of Kenzie's passing. I didn't know what, but again, that mom in me wanted to show the love for this little girl. I just sort of stood there, shocked, heartbroken, and lost...I then remembered the flower.

That little purple flower...purple...Kenzie's favorite color.

Somehow in that minute, I realized Kenzie didn't need to be shown love. She had all the love she needed. Even in the midst of her painful fight against cancer, she was given everything that she needed. Her parents, her brother, the support of hundreds...she was given everything she needed here on earth, and in the end, what more could we ask for? God was showing me that my prayers were not ignored, he heard them all; not just my prayers, the thousands of prayers regarding sweet Kenzie. Kenzie would be healed, Kenzie's pain would fade, and she would feel no fear...all in his time, in his way.

Her death still brings tears to my eyes. The loss of a child is something I pray I may never experience...but all I can do is give my children everything they need while we are together. Unconditional love, understanding, support, patience, and the occasional treat.
The grief her parents and family are going through must be agonizing...and while I know with their faith they will work through it, I know Kenzie will be in their hearts and minds forever...as she will also be in mine; along the hundreds of others who cared for Kenzie...and for all the children who's stories are like Kenzie's.

I have been watching butterflies visit the small purple flower all afternoon, and I choose to see the symbolism in it...angels welcoming McKenzie home...

M.LEWIS
  

Surprise! Baby #3 and other News

We're adding to this crazy brood again! Baby #3 to arrive mid-late October! A lot of people are making comments like "try for a boy" "hope it's a boy" "maybe you'll finally get a boy". Maybe I shouldn't mind, but come on people, boy or girl, this baby is a blessing and I honestly don't care if we end up with 3 awesome girls or 2 awesome girls and an awesome boy. (Sorry I used the word awesome so much.) I just want to emphasize that the child is what it is, and the child itself is more than enough. So pink or blue, don't have expectations for us, thanks. ;) ♥

Baby is almost 10 weeks, but since we are not technically there yet, here is some interesting facts about a 9 week baby: (I love these!)

PREGNANCY WEEK-BY-WEEK

Your Baby is as Big as a Green Olive

• This is a milestone. Baby's no longer an embryo—now he or she is a fetus!
• Baby's developing more distinct facial features.
• And baby might now have a strong enough heartbeat to be picked up by a fetal doppler.

On top of that news, we got our new trees for our backyard yesterday, and I am so excited! They add a lot to the yard and as they grow they will add beauty and privacy, I look forward to that! 

Of course it's still early in spring and the deciduous group have not sprouted leaves yet, but I am oddly pumped to see those guys all green and pretty. Adulthood, not want you expect sometimes...

We already had 1 lacebark elm (pic 3) and a chinese pistachio (pic 1 - almost out of frame on right) and another chinese pistachio in the front; but we wanted to line our fence more and get rid of that "barren" feeling. We picked out a total of 3 crepe myrtles (the leafless guys), 2 magnolias (the dark green guys in the corners) and 3 east palatka holly trees (the 3 in a row on pic 1). I am very happy with our selection and placement. Phase 1 of transforming the yard complete! :-D

Now off to spend some time with my kiddos!

M.LEWIS

Looking Ahead to Spring 2016

Wow.

Been awhile. I blame life. ;-)

We've been in the house for a little over 5 months now, and yes, it feels like home, though it felt that way since we first moved in. Completely unpacked and almost fully decorated, I can't imagine being anywhere else. We plan to plant several new trees in the backyard this spring, along with getting a small shed for the backyard tools. This will be our next adventure with the house. The goal is to get things planted before they start building phase 2...that will be noisy and just across the fence.

I look forward to this spring. I barely saw my trees with leaves on, and barely remember what my new yard looks with green grass. Now that we are settled inside, I am excited to plan and design the outside to our taste. Eventually we want a "campfire" corner, and maybe even a natural-grown teepee.

This will be down the line, and I am not sure want plants to use...but we agree it looks cool. Nora will probably eat anything we try to do for awhile.

Lorelai has started soccer, and even though she is only 1 game and 2 practices in, she loves it...mainly because she gets to be giggly with other girls. Addy is jealous she can't play on the team, but I hope to start her in a dance class in the fall or next spring. That should help.

The dogs are keeping me on my toes, mainly Nora. She is still chewing and eating items she shouldn't like a little puppy...but also finding new ways to visit the vet...like a broken toe. She still has tons of energy and tries to knock over anyone who visits with aggressive puppy hugs and kisses. Her love for people is amazing, and exhausting. Phoebe is delightfully small and easy to handle...though loud.

Adalaide's birthday is in a week and a half (ah!) and I am just now preparing my mind for what I need to do. All will be accomplished on time, of course. Charlie Brown/Snoopy party for this girl. Loves, loves, loves it. I am still figuring out her cake...we'll see. ;-)

Until next time!

-M.LEWIS

Starting off 2016

Where have I been?!

Back in the day, a friend told me when one doesn't blog as much, it's not because they don't have anything to share...they are just too busy living their life. That theory fits me right now.

We have been in the house about 3.5 months, and we are loving it. Here is a list of general thoughts and updates as of late:


Chris is finally working for his family's company and enjoying it very much.

My grandparents are in good health.

My girls are a handful, but they even things out by being so cute.

The dogs have been pretty good about the house. Nora is the only one I catch doing things like...digging up the sprinkler heads and using them as chew toys. Huskies, man...they have energy.

I am very pleased and practically finished decorating our new house. I owe it all to Target, Ikea, Hobby Lobby, and gift cards to Pottery Barn and Pier 1. It's a lovely mix of mountain cabin, farm house, and modern cottage. Focus is mainly on cabin...I am bringing Colorado (my happy place) here. It feels nice.

Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's were all nice, low-key, and family-oriented.

I am still wanting and waiting for snow.

I got an exercise bike with a gift card, it's coming in handy.

I have been following this little girl, Kenzie, and her journey through fighting cancer. She is 2, and her mother is an example to all of us. Faith, hope, love, and patience...I am in awe. Their story keeps our life's problems in perspective.

Adalaide went to the nutritionist today. She is up in height, and climbing slowly in weight. I have to order a special meal supplement. It is crazy expensive. Right now, it's a free trial. If Addy likes it, and it helps her, we are going to see if our insurance will cover it. Otherwise...we will have to use it like 3 times a week instead of daily or something...man, if she would just eat more! I'll give her grief for this when she's older, asking me to buy her new clothes or makeup. :P

Lorelai is stubborn, but creative and funny. She is on the verge of joining a soccer team or a gymnastics class. She has one hurdle she really needs to conquer before that can happen...but she's close.

And yes, we are still homeschooling. I feel like everyone has forgotten that. Asking me when Lorelai is going off to school quite often. No, your forced smiles and elongated "Ohhhhhh"'s don't sway me. We are going to rock it.

Ok, well, off for now. Life is good. ;)


M.LEWIS