If you're a big Friends fan, like I am, you might remember the episode where Ross makes his "top 5" list.  i.e. top 5 celebrity crushes.  I have NO idea why I was thinking about it the other day, but I thought it would be fun to share my top 5, and have you all link up (or just comment) with yours.  I'm always amazed at the diverse grouping of people that my friends and I have liked, so it will be really interesting to see what you all come up with.  Today, I'm starting with top 5 actors (or actresses) and later on down the line I'll do musicians, etc. 

In order to make my list, a celebrity must be relatively attractive, a decent actor and not seem like a total weirdo in-real-life (sorry Thomas Dekker, you were so close).  So in no particular order, here we go:

1) Topher Grace
I'd like to say that I've been a fan since That 70s Show, but given my general ignorance of popular television, I first discovered him in Win A Date With Tad Hamilton - and I've been watching him ever since.  But I'm big on skinny guys with dreamy blue eyes (it's what I adore about my husband), so he makes the list :)

2) John Krasinski
Given the sheer number of Facebook fan pages such as Jim Halpert is The Perfect Man and I'm In Love With Jim Halpert, I can assume that I'm not alone in adding this fellow to my list.

3) Ben Barnes-
I was a big fan of The Chronicles of Narnia before the movies came out - but here's yet another reason to watch Prince Caspian!

4) Connor Trinneer-
I confess, I'm a big ol' Star Trek geek, and Enterprise isn't my favorite series (I think).  But head to head I've got to say I'd root for Commander Tucker over most of the other officers any day. 

5) Hayden Christensen-
I can't say a lot about his performance in Star Wars - whether it was the writing or the acting I won't try to speculate.  But Hayden first caught my attention in Life As A House (amazing ensemble cast - check it out) and earned himself a spot on the list. 

And I can't forget to mention the guy who's at the very top of all lists - my incredible and amazing husband whom I'm so blessed to have.  Ain't he cute?
So - who's on your top 5 and why?  Link up below or leave us a comment and let's see who's grabbing your attention!
 
I don't think I'm the only woman in the world with Supermom complex.  I want to have it all together.  I want to have the gorgeous, clean, tidy house.  I want to have the well behaved, sweet, happy children.  I want to look put-together and beautiful every day.  And if I can't actually pull that off, I want to at least give off the appearance of Superwoman.  And I know a LOT of women who really do seem to have it all together - so I know I'm not alone.  And sometimes I let myself get really stressed out about competing with these 'perfect' moms - about trying to "keep up with the  Joneses," as they say. 

Well I don't have it all together.  Not even close.  And, frankly, I'm getting worse and worse at keeping up appearances at all.  I have become "that mom," who's always late, always disheveled, always forgets to pack her kid's coat/backpack/homework/etc, and whose house looks like a storm blew through.   But you know what?  I'm ok with that!  Today, I'm going to get real with you.  Very real.  I'm going to give you a peek into what my crazy, messy, chaotic life actually looks like - and why I feel so blessed anyway. 

I know that many of the pictures I'm posting have been ripped from Pottery Barn sites and the like, but I am constantly amazed at the number of families I visit (yes, families with small children, even) whose homes really do look like they're straight out of a catalog - spotless, impeccably decorated, and very tidy.  And every time I visit a home like this I think to myself "what on earth am I doing wrong that my house is such a mess, and their house is amazing!?"  Well - here's a look at my dream house, my real house, and why the two are so disparate.  I hope that it can be at least a little encouraging to some of you.
I would LOVE for my house to look like this.  Built in cabinets, shiny appliances, and tons of storage and organizational tools.  Oh, and furniture.  Actual furniture. 

Instead, my house looks like this:
The couch cushions are always on the floor.  The storage bins I bought are emptied and used as toys.  My "office" is a laptop and overflowing letter-holder stashed on a shelf next to my kitchen, whose sink is always full of dishes and whose pantry is a disaster (though it is next on my list of 'things to organize').  We use an old fitted sheet instead of a tablecloth.  The walls are covered in fingerprints, crayon scribbles and pre-school art instead of store-bought decorative displays.  We have more baby gates than electronics, and if you could get a close look at the carpet, you'd be thoroughly grossed-out (we are also in the process of saving up for tile).   And this post here will explain why I don't even bother trying to keep things tidy most days. 

And while I would LOVE for my kids' rooms to look like this:
And I even wrote this post here about how to keep kids' rooms nice and tidy, my boys' rooms usually look like this:
Toys everywhere, mismatching linens, and no furniture (I've got climbers and I'd like to avoid the E.R.).

In fact, even when it comes to my own room, instead of this:
Yup, once #3 came along, we moved into our semi-finished basement.  No paint on the walls, no flooring on the concrete. 

And yet, I'm ok with all of this.  I don't mind my house the way it is (most of the time).  And here's why.

1) I am so blessed to have a home at all.  It's warm, it's cozy, it's plenty big for all 5 of us.  It's in a beautiful neighborhood and we don't struggle to pay for it.  It meets all of our needs and many of our wants just the way it is.  We don't spend lots of money on matching bedroom-sets or paintings for the walls, but that's money we can use to spoil our kids, help a friend in need, or, well, save up for our dream house - when the kids are older.

2) I have 3 healthy kids who are so energetic and creative that they turn this house upside-down.  They draw on the walls because they want to create art.  They drag food out all over the house because they want to be independent and feed themselves.  They haul furniture from room to room because they're making-believe.  They even spit their dinner out on the floor because they like to make each other laugh.  My parents continually remind me of the damage I did to our home when I was a young, creative and energetic child myself.  And while I'm continuing my efforts to teach them boundaries and discipline, I know that they will grow.  And I will be very sad when my house is tidy, and well decorated - and quiet. 

3) I am comfortable.  I have exactly what I need to stay warm, well dressed, well fed and well rested.  In fact, I have far more than I need (and am constantly trying to clear out the clutter).  My things might not always be tidy, my house might not always smell like roses, and I may not be the world's best decorator, but I'm well taken care of, well provided for, and well loved.  And I would much rather have that than live in a page out of a Pottery Barn catalog. 

I hope this little peek into my world might help some of you feel better about your own.  Our children are our priorities and everything else is just icing on the cake.  So I'll try to stop feeling bad because I'm not Supermom and I don't have a perfect house.  I'll just do the best I can with what I have, and spend all that extra energy seeking contentment instead.  And when those catalgos come in the mail, I'll take a look, daydream a little, and then put them tidily into the recycle bin. 

SIL: Postcrossing

11/14/2011

 
When I was a kid, I loved when my school would set us up with pen-pals.  I think most of the kids I wrote to were in Russia, and I just adored learning about the lives of other people from other cultures.  I also found receiving a letter in the mail to be the ultimate childhood delight.  I guess I've never quite grown out of it.  While I appreciate the convenience and speed of email, I'm still the adult who peeks out the window every hour or two to see if the little flag on my mailbox has gone down.

And this, I suppose, is why I love Postcrossing so much.  This website facilitates postcard exchanges between people all over the globe.  Once you sign up for an account, you are eligible to receive the profile to whom you will send a postcard.  Profiles contain a little information about the recipient (their occupations, likes and dislikes, etc) and what they are looking for in a postcard (both in terms of picture on the front and also content on the back).  Once you send your postcard, you are elibible to receive one from someone else.  You can have 5 postcards in transit at once, so if you were conscientious, you could be receiving fun snail-mail frequently!  So far I've received notes from Russia, Belarus, England and The Czech Republic.  The postcards are always beautiful and I love learning about the cultures.

Not only is Postcrossing fun, but it can be a good learning tool.  The site attempts to assure that you do not receive a card from the same country twice (you can opt out of this feature), and you are able to request specific information from the sender, so you could potentially conduct research through the mail.  I sent a postcard to one profile requesting information on how our country treats our elderly.  I also received a postcard from an elementary school class in England who wanted to know what sorts of celebrations take place in our country.  How special for that class to be able to learn first-hand about other cultures!  While most of the communications are simply one-way notes, there is an option to exchange address information to become more permanent pen-pals with someone whose card you particularly enjoyed. 

I've started a little notebook for collecting all of my beautiful cards (and their equally beautiful stamps) so that I can look back at them in time and see all the interesting new places I've discovered.  And when I know I might have a card waiting for my in the mailbox, well, I wait all the more impatiently for that mail truck to come. 
 
According to Random.org, the winner of my birthday giveaway is ----  Angel Taylor from Simply Lovely Things!

Congrats, Angel!  Please contact me with your shipping address so we can mail you your goodies!  A hearty Thank You to everyone who entered, and also to the lovely ladies from Momma Rake, Punkin'heads and Doodaloo's, and Little Brown Byrd for contributing such amazing prizes!
 
I haven't always been an emotional person.  Before I had kids, almost nothing made me weepy.  Now that I have kids, I find myself teary-eyed all the time.  And this week's featured book, The Pine Tree Parable, by Liz Curtis Higgs, definitely brought a tear to my eye. 

We're trying to raise our children with an understanding of God and Jesus.  And while they seem to have a general idea of God as the Creator and as someone deserving of our praise, it's very hard to explain to children the sacrifice that the Lord made for us.  This parable does an excellent job of putting into child-friendly terms just what that sacrifice meant.  Each page of the story is beautifully illustrated and also contains a bit of scripture at the bottom which mirrors the action taking place in the scene.

Beyond the parable of Christ, this story can stand on its own very well as a simple tale of giving from our plenty to help those in need.  This time of year I am in constant wonder that I am surrounded by so much 'stuff' while so many struggle to fill their basic needs.  I complain to myself about stepping on our piles of toys, then think of the children in countries all around the world who have no toys at all.  This book is a wonderful reminder to us all, young and old, of the great satisfaction that comes from sacrificial giving, even if it is difficult to do.  I'm hoping that my children, young as they are, will hear this story and be able to apply it just a little to their lives - even if it only means helping me box up a few of those toys to donate to needy children this Christmas.  I hope, too, that you will find this simple story as inspiring as I did.
 
Want to help a good cause and enter for a chance to win some amazing prizes?  Then we have a deal for you!  Here's someone to give you the details:
Hi there, folks! My name is Abbie

from:

five days five ways | because every day is different

…and I’m so excited that Cat is having me by for a visit to share with you something I’m passionate about, which could benefit you guys in more ways than one. 

Pinky promise.

How so?

Well, I’m hosting a huge giveaway/fundraiser to help build a new classroom for a Christian ministry to orphans in Uganda that is home-grown in East Texas where I live.

There are FIVE prize packages, chock-full of amazing handmade goodies and gift certificates (Lisa Leonard, anyone?) that you can win just by visiting and leaving me a comment.

Here’s just a small taste:

2011-10-31

BUT!

If you want extra entries, you can also donate to:

Parental Care Ministries: The Father's Love in Action

…using a special button on my blog which will track your entries so we can see how much we raise and who wins!

Honestly, folks, these kids are incredibly humble and deserving! (Their idea of a special treat is an apple…I’m not kidding).

So, if you want to help us raise the money to build these precious children a new classroom + have the opportunity to be one of 5 lucky folks to win some awesome loot, please come check out The BIG PCM Fundraiser/Giveaway on my blog.

No amount is too small, and every dollar you give is matched up to our goal of $5,000 (wow!). Which means, if you give up Starbucks just once, you’ll be donating not $10 but $20 (just kidding…but at least $8, right?) to a truly worthy cause. 

Hope to see you soon!

Thanks again, Cat! You rock, girl

  

Ornament Swap

11/7/2011

 
Do you love hand-made ornaments?  I know I do!  They always seem to make my tree feel just a little more special.  Do you make hand-made ornaments?  Do you know someone who does?  Then join in the swap!  Head on over to

to sign up to participate.  You can either send an ornament you've made yourself, or purchase a hand-made ornament.  Easy peasy.  Head on over to read more details and link up.  Someone will be receiving one of my Frosty ornaments - will it be you?

SIL: Pajama Time

11/7/2011

 
It's getting cold out there.  We finally broke down and turned our heat on about a week ago.  Brrrrr.  And when it's cold out, all I want to do is throw on some cozy flannel pajamas and snuggle down under cozy flannel sheets.  And where do I go for cozy flannels?  Target!  I've been a HUGE fan of Nick and Nora flannel pajamas for years now.  Not only do they fit me just right (I'm really short, but the pants don't drag), but they are super duper soft and stand up to a lot of washing.  I've had other brands of pajamas fall apart on me quickly - the buttons fell off or stopped staying buttoned, the edges frayed, they faded quickly, etc.  But all of my Nick and Nora pajamas have held up to constant wear and washing and still look awesome.  And they come in so many cute prints!  I just bought this pair of pink and blue reindeer pajamas and I also have a pair of purple owl jammies from last season.  They have everything from sock monkeys to puppy dogs to playful paisley - something for everyone.  They even sell separates and nightgowns for those who aren't a fan of the thick coat-set type.  So if you're facing the winter weather and need some new pajamas to get you through, head over to Target and check these out (and don't forget to test out the flannel sheet sets while you're there - holiday prints run around $30 for a King set - amazing!).  Stay toa

Sunday Link-up

11/6/2011

 
Today I'm linking up with
Fun and random about me:

1. Have you ever licked the back of a CD to try to get it to work?
Nope.  Didn't even know that was a trick.  I just wipe them on my shirt or blow on them.

2. What’s the largest age difference between yourself and someone you’ve dated?
2.5 years.  But I've only dated one man (who just so happens to be my husband :))

3. Ever been in a car wreck?
Yes and it was terrifying, though I was pretty much unhurt.  Destroyed my car, though.

4. Were you popular in high school?
Hahaha that's funny.  No way.  I was a total 'freak' in jr. high, then had lots of friends in high school, but was certainly still 'uncool.'  By college everyone had his or her own niche, but I've never really been the 'popular' type.

5. Have you ever been on a blind date?
Nope - only dated one man and I knew him for 3 years before we started dating.

6. Are looks important?
I believe you should do the best you can with what you've been blessed with

7. Do you have any friends that you’ve known for 10 years or more?
Quite a few.  Everyone I knew before I moved to the town I'm in now.

8. By what age would you like to be married?
I was married at 22.

9. Have you ever made a mistake?
Of course.  I make many every day.  Most people do.

10. Are you a good tipper?
Depends on the service

11. What’s the most you have spent for a haircut?
Not sure - quite a lot - $40+ for a cut, style and blow-out

12. Have you ever had a crush on a teacher?
No, but I had a crush on a doctor once

13. What song do you want played at your funeral?
How Great Thou Art - which was also played at my wedding :)

14. What would your last meal be before getting executed?
Wow - um, it would depend on my mood that day, but probably something involving cheese and chocolate.  If I could even bring myself to eat.

15. Beatles or Stones?
Beatles.  No contest.

16. Beer, wine or hard liquor?
I don't drink.  And if I did, wine is the most gluten-free I guess (I cook with it)

17. Do you have any phobias?
Heights.  Like really bad.  I get shaky if I'm more than 4-5 feet off the ground.

18. What are your plans for the future?
At the moment, we're hoping to build a house and send all our kids to private school.  Those are my main goals for now.  Otherwise, just try to recognize my blessings every day and do as much good as I can with the time I've got here on earth :)
 
Tomorrow is my birthday.  I can't believe it's here already.  I feel like it was just summer.  November is a very busy birthday month for us (mine on the 5th, my sister's on the 23rd, and baby girl's on the 24th- she's a Thanksgiving baby this year!)  But I love celebrations, so I think it's wonderful that we get to celebrate three people in our family this month.  And to help me celebrate, a couple of very lovely ladies have generously donated some treats for you!!  Here's what's up for grabs:

From Marissa with Momma Rake
This gorgeous headband!  Isn't it sweet?

From Mimi Baby Boutique
One Bella Bracelet in winner's choice of colors.

From Little Brown Byrd
This darling Christmas bitty bot! (can I keep it?  please? ;))

And here's Katie from Punkinheads and Doodaloos
Hi everyone! I'm Katie from Punkin' Heads and Dooda Loo's.
 I am a mom to a 31 month old little girl that is as independent as they come, and a wife to a wonderful hard working husband. I love to cook and craft {in my spare time} and am always on the hunt for something new and interesting to try. I tend to use my blog as an outlet for my mind. I post tutorials, recipes and all the things that happen in our little world. Feel free to stop by I'd love to show you around!
I also have a little {emphasis on LITTLE} Etsy shop called Doodaloo's, you can check that out here. Check back often as I am re-stocking for the holiday season! Today I'm thrilled to be able to take part in Cat's birthday bash giveaway. She's a great gal and I hope that her birthday is all she could hope for!

One of you lucky ladies has the chance to win my little package:
All items are handmade by me!
3 Snowmen gift tags
1 felt rosette hair pin with snowflake
1 black and white hair clip with velvet rosette
1 large white satin rosette with red cotton petals. 
Mounted on an alligator clip to use in your hair or as a broach
All of these items will be available to order through my Etsy shop by the end of the weekend as well.
Good luck! ~Katie
Woohoo!  Thanks, Katie for the adorable items! 

One winner will receive all these great gifts, plus a special surprise from me!  Here are five ways to win:

                    Entry One (Mandatory)
Follow Momma Rake's blog via GFC
Follow Mimi Baby Boutique's blog via GFC
Follow Punkinhead and Doodaloos blog via GFC
Follow Stuff I Love via GFC (see right sidebar)
Leave one comment telling me you follow all 4 blogs and telling me what has been the best birthday present you've ever received (+1)

                    Entry Two (Optional)
Like Momma Rake on Facebook
Like Mimi Baby Boutique on Facebook
Like Punkinheads and Doodaloos on Facebook
Like Stuff I Love on Facebook
Leave a separate comment for each page you like (+4)

                Entry Three (Optional)
Favorite Momma Rake on etsy
Favorite Mimi Baby Boutique on etsy
Favorite Lit
Favorite Doodaloos on etsy
Leave a separate comment for each shop you favorite (+3)

                Entry Four (Optional)
Facebook about this giveaway
Tweet about this giveaway
Blog about this giveaway
Leave a separate comment for each action you do.  PLUS receive an extra entry for any referral who mentions your name in an entry comment.

            Entry Five (Optional)
Make a purchase from any shop
Leave a comment telling me what you bought and from whom (+5)

So many ways to win!!!  Giveaway will end Friday, November 11th at noon.  Good luck!!

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