2020 in Review

 When I look back on 2020 I am reminded that I am BLESSED.

We spent more time together this year, we had more quiet time in nature this year, we brought home a puppy, we found new ways to celebrate, we enjoyed Disney World during a pandemic, and more. 

Join me in looking back on my favorite moments of our 2020. 

January 

In January, we took the kids to see Disney on Ice.

Owen, at age 4, just lit up upon seeing Mickey Mouse!

I will forever treasure him watching Mickey ice skate with other Disney friends

February

Annabeth's first dance competition of 2020.

She accidentally ingested nuts the night before this dance so we had a scary run to get

medicine and a long night with little sleep. We gave her the choice of dancing or not and she said 

she was ABSOLUTELY going! She and her duet partner did a wonderful job that morning

and I was so proud of her for pushing through and meeting a committment. 

March 

My best friend Rose and I spent a WHOLE DAY away in Brown County! 

We hadn't done a kid-free day since her youngest was born 2+ years before this.

We shopped, walked, and spent hours talking in a coffee shop.

Little did we know that by the next weekend the whole world would shut down due to COVID-19.

April

Weeks into Social Distancing, we surprised our kids with a very long car ride.

We arrived in Ferdinand at a little house in the country.

The kids were so confused, they had seen the Holiday World sign at the exit and thought we 

were going there. 

We walked into the garage to find one tiny, adorable little pup waiting for US!

My biggest regret was not videoing the moment the kids met Oscar - it is one of my sweetest memories.

Oscar came home with us that day and has been the best pup ever!

May

We celebrated Owen's birthday over several small gatherings.

I loved this picture of him bowing out his candle with Mark.

Owen at five is so much more adventerous and fun than ever before!

Owen doesn't know a stranger and will talk your ear off. 

June

This was the day we filmed Annabeth's Nationals dances. She was AMAZINGLY adaptable

as she danced outside for the first time ever. It was hot, buggy, and super sunny but she just rolled with

it and did her very best. Owen hung in there as well. I loved this moment of leaving to go to the car because he insisted on rolling her bag for her! I love their sweet friendship.

July

Our INCREDIBLE fair board allowed 4H members to still show their projects/animals and to attend the fair with a few family members. Each kid also got a free ice cream with their fair passes. We were really, really fortunate as most counties didn't offer their 4Hers such a wonderful fair experience. 

August

This was the evening of Annabeth's dance recital. It's usually indoors in June, this year it was outdoors in August and all of the kids loved it! I am so thankful for a studio that worked so diligently to help the kids continue to train and compete even in this unique year. I loved this picture of the four of us - a rare, non-selfie family picture. 

September

In September we pulled out our horse clothes and made our Derby Hats. We missed being in Kentucky and with the ones we love but we enjoyed good food and time together as we watched the race. 

October

In October our Miracle Girl turned 9. 

This year she styled all of her own outfits and made her own cakes. 

I love watching her learn and master new skills. 

I am so impressed with the lovely, kind, and thoughtful girl she is!

November

In November we escaped the cold and took a trip to sunny Florida. We enjoyed staying at Pop Century and saw all four of the Disney Parks. Watching the kids faces as we walked into Disney World, waving to Mickey and Minnie, made me cry! It was just the most beautiful moment seeing them see Main Street U.S.A. and the castle for the first time. It made all of the waiting and saving worth it!

December

My one Christmas gift request was a picture of all of us on Christmas Eve or Day but Mark ended up working the whole holiday so... I have this lovely picture of Oscar and the kids. I can hardly believe how grown-up everyone looks. Christmas with a 9 year old, 5 year old, and pup was so much fun!

2020 was such a great year! Of course we had times when we were scared for the state of the world, unsure of how to make plans for the future, and worry for those we love. That being said, we continued to school our children at home, Mark worked out of his office, and I worked from home for my biggest year yet with Usborne Books & More.

This year, and every year, we serve our King. We aim to be in the world but not of the world with our eyes set on the Life to come. In all things we strive to give thanks and to give God any and all glory.

As we look ahead to 2021 our goals remain the same - love God and love His people. 

Frugal Thursday - Merry Christmas Eve!

 Happy Frugal Thursday!

Here is how we saved money/made extra money/spent money wisely this week:

- Last week when my parents were here, Mark drove up north to Jockamos so we could surprise my mom with pizza that she loves. The waitress was kind enough to give Mark a 50% police discount (he was in uniform as he went straight from work) Mark was paying cash so he gave her the other 50% AND the tip we had planned to tip. Merry Christmas Jockamo Pizza Angel. 

- Friday we took my parents to the Johnson County Museum of History. We enjoyed exploring all of the changes since we had been there last and all voted for our favorite trees in the Festival of Trees. It was wonderful to be able to still do this family tradition. We made a donation to the museum as it's free/donation only. My parents treated us to lunch out - thank you!

- Saturday our sweet neighbors brought over a Christmas card and coffee cake. I switched around our dinner plans and we had breakfast for diner with their cake as the highlight. 

- Also on Saturday, our sweet friend Katelyn brought over a gingerbread decorating kit. The kids loved decorating and eating their little houses! Thank you Katelyn!

- Sunday afternoon we all enjoyed our first NFL game. The Indianapolis Colts offered an awesome deal on a Family Four Pack of tickets so I snagged them. It was AWESOME to watch a game with a teeny-tiny socially distanced crowd! We didn't have anyone's knees in our backs, no one's tall head to look over, and no strangers next to us - perfection! Along with the great deal on tickets, the game had a TON of freebies. We came home with foam horseshoes, cheer towels, arm bands for the kids, face masks for all, and "First Game" pins/certificates. Colts beat the Texans 27-20 in a great game!

Annabeth was SO excited to see the cheerleaders!

                                                                            Go Colts!! 

- Monday night, just after sunset, we went out to see the Christmas Star. We enjoyed visiting with neighbors from across the street and next door as we all looked at the skies.

- Just as we came inside, a car pulled up and it was a former teacher of Mark's and his family. They surprised us with everything we needed to make a chilli dinner. It was wonderful to visit with them for a while! The Ploss Family has been incredibly genersous to Mark, and in turn all of us, over the years. Many times when we have prayed in college and our early married years "Lord, how will be pay that bill?" God has answered with a call from the Ploss Family. Mark has done a great deal of work on the house and in their yard over the years and they have provided vital income, giftcards, and meals. 

- Tuesday we celebrated Christmas with our best friends. We did homemade Lunchables for lunch and they brought fruit and dessert. We exchanged gifts and talked/played for six hours which felt like 10 minutes. We love you Eblings!

- Tuesday evening Owen received the rank of Lion. We are so proud of his work at Cub Scouts and look forward to helping him earn his electives in the spring.

- A friend had gotten a call about meal bags from a local school system that was going to toss the food if they couldn't find families to take them. She generously brought us a bag and the kids enjoyed fun, new food - aka school lunch food that Mark and I grew up with. 

We are so thankful for another Christmas Eve, another year to celebrate the birth of Christ today and everyday! If you don't already know, don't fully believe - I encourage you to reach out and ask. We'd love to share more about how a tiny babe, born in a stable in Bethlehem, came for the world. He came to live a perfect life and He came to die on the cross. He died for you, for me, for all sinners so that we might have the Life Eternal. In a season filled with lights, sugar, presents, and general busyness, I still find time to slow down and remember Who it's all about. Monday night, looking at that Christmas star, hoping the clouds would stay away so we could enjoy it. I thought about that first Christmas. How a cloudy night might have prevented the sheperds and wise men from seeing the star or their own selfish desires might have kept them from following it but as always, God's will was done. So, dear friends, find the star, see the Light, and follow the One from Whom ALL BLESSINGS FLOW.

Frugal Friday 373

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Here is how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- Last Friday was over sixty degrees and Mark and Annabeth took advantage of the warm weather by camping out in the backyard with a tent. The kids really love one-on-one time with Mark and she loved this!

- Saturday my friend Angie and I hosted a fundraiser for Annabeth's dance company. We put together a fun paint canvas event that earned dancers 70% of each paint fee paid in their name. We were able to help dancers raise around $100 towards fees. We are hoping for a bigger event next time but I think everyone who came had a great time. 

- Saturday after the paint event, we drove through Compass Park and around downtown to look at Christmas lights as a family. We hadn't done much of that during the week and the kids, especially Owen, loved it.

- We were tempted, and begged by the kids, to eat out Saturday. We were good and came home for dinner. I had planned poorly though and had homemade lasagna on the menu so we ended up eating after the time that the kids usually go to bed. That being said we stuck to our menu and budget for the week by cooking at home. 

- Sunday we stayed home ALL DAY! It was lovely to be home, all four of us. We read, watched Christmas movies, Mark made chilli, and then we had family game night.

- I was able to finish out our Christmas shopping on Shutterfly thanks to a 50% off + extra 25% off + free shipping deal! I had put our vacation scrapbook in my cart and with shipping it was going to be $65 a few weeks ago. I waited and was able to get three photo books and a photo gift for just $80 this week! It was worth the wait!

- Tuesday night Mark had a meeting and the kids asked for a Mama-Kid Date. We got out to deliver something to friends, drove home a new way to look at Christmas lights, and each ate a piece of Halloween candy while we watched a Christmas Special on Disney +. Special does not have to cost money. 

- Wednesday we woke up to SNOW! The kids were out playing before the sun was really up, we made homemade hot cocoa, and they played another two hours after school. We only got an inch or so but they were so excited to show Oscar the snow (which he loved!) and to play all day!

- Wednesday evening Annabeth had her annual dance company Christmas party. The kids were able to play lots of fun games, she won a package of Oreos, and they received little goodie bags. Usually this party has all of the families, a big dinner, and more but it sounds like the masked, dancer only party was just as much fun as ever. Thank you SDA for making the kids' dance year incredible!

- While Annabeth was at her party, I picked up peppermint hot chocolate and surprised Owen with an outing. He had asked early in the day if he could have a date with Mark and me. We parked on Main Street and walked past all of the restaurants, the movies, and then spent about 45 minutes looking at Christmas lights on the square while drinking our hot chocolates. There was beautiful snow falling and it was just wonderful. I so love being able to give our kids little, perfect moments to treasure.

- My parents came for a short visit and brought us our Christmas gift early. We, especially Mark, have always wanted a Hoosier cabinet but either never had a place to put it and then even when we had the place we didn't have room in the budget. My parents found one in incredible condition, for a great deal and it's our Christmas gift! Thank you all for buying and trasnporting it! 

We had a great week, enjoying so many sweet, little moments. 

Happy Savings to All!

Frugal Friday 372

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Here is how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- We received the wrong Imperfect order. This was the first time in the years that we've been using them taht we had an issue. They credited what we had spent and we got to keep the box that came - lettuce, cucumber, pears, and broccoli - all free!

- My dear friend Alysha brought over a bag of clothes for Owen. She brought a bunch of baseball items for Owen which he prompty put on while he cheered. Thank you Alysha! 

- Our friend Christy reached out and said she noticed in our Disney pictures that her daughter had outgrown a shirt that matched mine! They kindly brought us the shirt and some Style Dance wear. Thank you Stearns Family! 

- Mark is hooked on cast iron pans, we scored some great deals at the Lodge Factory Store in TN while on vacation. Saturday he made an apple cake and he and the kids each enjoyed a piece. He boxed up the rest and delivered to our nextdoor neighbors. 

- Saturday night Mark and Owen put up a tent in the living room and had a campout. I love all the ways we can make life special for the kids without spending a penny!

- We took a couple of evenings and drove to free light shows in our area. I feel like people have really gone above and beyond this year! We had such a warm November that people really used those weekends outdoors to put up some great light and music shows!

- We passed on dance studio wear to a younger dancer at our studio. Annabeth has finally had a growth spurt and it was great to pass things along. 

- Mark made a deep dish chocolate chip cookie for Sunday Dinner with his family. His parents made a wonderful dinner for everyone. I treasure, even more than usual, time together with everyone in town.

- Monday morning we played with friends. I took coffee and LOVED catching up with a friend! The kids didn't want to leave and asked to go back to play again after lunch. 

- Yesterday we shopped at the Mom and Cub Boutique. They are going out of business so everything is 50% off. We were able to get three shirts and a dress for Annabeth and two pairs of brand new (very nice brands) shoes for just $25!

- Last night we delivered dinner to a friend who just had surgery. We SO appreciated everyone who blessed us during my recovery and feel even more blessed to pay it forward. The family had just been given fresh Florida oranges and sent us home with a whole bag as a "thank you" Thank you Loves!!

- The kids and I delivered puzzles from our Puzzle Drive to the Franklin City Police Department. Thanks to the help of generous friends and family we were able to donate 11 sets of books and puzzles.

Owen, of course, had to create his own photo op. 

He enjoyed meeting Officer Benny and rubbing his tummy.

Special Delivery!

We had a long but good week. We continue to be thankful for our health and are praying for the many friends (and strangers) that we know who are sick. May God's healing hand touch them all.

Happy Savings to All! 

Happy Frugal Friday 371

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Here is how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- We celebrated Thanksgiving with just immediate family that we see almost weekly. We enjoyed the leftovers through Sunday lunch! 

- Friday we decorated the house. We made a deal when we got married that excpet for the tree, we would only decorate with handmade or second hand/antique items. Our Christmas decor certainly would never make a fashion blog but we love it!

- I sold one of the last "little kid" toys on Facebook. Made: $20

- I ran several holiday book parties and even some book deals for my VIPs through my Usborne Books & More business. You still have time to shop with me and have books by Christmas: Amy's Book Business

- I shopped a Black Friday Deal (40% off) through Spiffy and Splendid. I sent pairs out as gifts to two of my Book Ladies as a prize fo completing the November Team Challenge. 

- I scored my ALL TIME biggest Black Friday Savings on Saturday. I had ordered an item at about 50% off thanks to a sale and coupons. I had nearly $10 cashback through Rakutan and free shipping. I felt GREAT about the deal. Then when the item came it had a clearance sticker on it for about half of what I had paid. That didn't make me happy! I took the invoice and item with clearance sticker over to Kohl's and they refunded me the difference! I was seriously impressed with their customer service and that they honored their price tag. Overall I saved almost 80% off the retail price!

- We were SO proud of Annabeth on vacation. Going in, since the kids had received money/giftcards, we asked them what one thing they really wanted. Owen mentioned both a Beast and Pluto stuffed animal and was able to get both with his money. Annabeth wanted an ice cream backpack she saw on a Disney video. We searched all week but couldn't find "the" one. Although the Disney stores offered many, many alternatives none were "it". We were able to order it online (thankfully on sale for 1/2 price) and she waited a week for it to come. I was so impressed that at age nine she was able to not seek instant gratification at the stores but to wait for what she wanted. 

Worth the wait!

She has been carrying it everywhere this week.

- Tuesday evening our neighbors surprised the kids with chocolate Advent Calendars. They have enjoyed a little candy as we read the Bible each day. 

- Wednesday evening another neighbor gave the kids with little Christmas trees to build and decorate with stickers. They had a good time working on those during read-aloud time one day.

- Thursday we had friends over, our first company in a month or so! The kids loved playing, I loved talking to a good friend, and we enjoyed having them stay for dinner. 

We had a nice, low key week and are looking forward to a fun weekend with some friends and family. 

Happy Savings to All! 

Frugal Friday - Disney Edition

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Last week we had a 7 day adventure with Mickey Mouse and the Georgia Mountains!

We planned our Disney trip with a lot of help from our friends Joe and Michelle Dillon. We love supporting this fellow LEO Family and you can book with them for FREE here Vacation Planners. 

(For Southern Indiana/Louisville friends wanting to book with a local planner contact our friend Amanda Williams. Her services are free too! Amanda.williams@magicalvacationplanner.com)

We originally booked our trip at the beginning of March 2020. We have been planning and saving for this trip for several years, we had a few setbacks as we had a flood in our kitchen and then Annabeth had the opporunity to dance in Chicago so we pulled from this trip savings for that trip. By March we were finally ready to book and planned for 4 park days, 5 nights at the All Star Movies Resort. Within two weeks, the world shut down due to COVID-19. When Disney finally reopened, they decided not to reopen the All Star resorts right away so we were automatically upgraded to Pop Centrury Resort. Disney upgraded us for free which was a great deal since Pop Century runs higher price per night than All Star Movies. 

Our awesome vacation planners also credited our account when Disney ran a sale. We were credited about $250. Between the credit and the upgrade we came out about $400 ahead of where we would have been without the sale/room upgrade!

Other ways we saved on vacation - 

- We asked family and friends for giftcards for the kids' birthdays. They each came to Disney with at least $75 to spend on the souveniers of their choice. Thank you everyone! 

- We packed our own food so most days we ate at least two meals from our packed groceries. We did not have the meal plan so we were able to choose to just buy our favorite meals. 

- We have always made pressed pennies as the kids' souveniers on vacation so over the past year we've been saving all of our quarters and pennies. Fun Fact: Disney uses a credit/debit card machine at each Pressed Penny location. We used our cards there and used the loose change to pay the Florida Tolls and for small items in the stores. 

- Annabeth found an Anna-Safe sucker but none of the stickers would ring up so the store gave us the $4.95 sucker for FREE!

- Mark and I chose Buy One, Get One Free candy bars as our treat. The stores actually had a great deal of little candy souveniers buy one, get one free. 

- We chose most of our gifts/souveniers from the 70% dated 2020 items. I like having the year on ornaments and things anyway so this was a great deal! Bonus buy for being there at the end of the year! :) 

- On the way home, we stopped in Dahlonega, GA with an Air BnB in the mountains. This was much less than staying at a local hotel and much more fun to be in a cabin! We eve had our own deck overlooking the mountains.

- Our last stop was Amicalola Falls State Park. We paid the $5 parking fee and had a great fun day at the falls and hiking. 

- Mark hiked the Approach Trail into the Appalachian Trail - a lifelong dream. 

We had the most wonderful week away - the cleanest park on earth, low heat most days, low crowds, socially distant lines to wait in, and SO much magic and fun. Now we look forward to saving for the next vacation. 

Frugal Friday 370

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Here is how wes saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- Mark has been wanting a large tool chest for his workshop space. He has been saving for one from the hardware store but something else always comes up. Imagine his happiness when one he wanted was at a neighborhood garage sale for just $30! This saved us $100+ !

- This was actually a few weeks ago but we are SO thankful! A friend mentioned that she had purchased store brand allergy meds that didn't work for her. They are the ones that 3/4 of us take so she gave us about 2.5 months of meds! This is a HUGE savings for our family! Thank you Jeanette!

- Saturday Mark and Owen went to McCordsville for the day and worked on an Eagle Scout Project. They were gone from 7-5 and were able to finish nearly an entire, large, bridge job. Owen was SO proud to help the big boys and adults all day.

- Annabeth had to do school on Saturday, she had a full day of doctor visits on Friday. After school, we had a little date day and shopped at the Farmgirl Merchantile and at Mom and Cub Boutique. We found several Christmas gifts at Farmgirl and she found three clothing items at Mom & Cub (under $20 for all three!) 

- Sunday we went to church, something that I will never take for granted again after the churches were closed last spring. We are SO thankful to worship in person. After church, we had lunch at Mark's parents. They generously sent us home with leftovers which we enjoyed for four meals during the week. (And we're just finding out this morning that our church is now closed again through December 15 :( ) 

- Monday Mark was off work so we got many projects around the house done. One of them was deep cleaning and listing our last two toddler toys for sale - the toy grill and toy kitchen. We were able to sell both on Facebook within one hour. While I do feel a little sad about not having any little people to need those toys, the kids are very excited for their Big Kid Reading Corner! We moved the bookshelf from Owen's room to the new Reading Corner and used the funds from the sale of the toy kitchen to buy each of the kids a bean bag chair. 

- We spent a TON of time outside! We always spend at least one hour a day outside but in the winter it sometimes is hard to get past that hour. This week has been so gorgeous though - with a few days up to 80 degrees here. We eneded up spending 3+ hours a day outside several days this week including a great park meet up with homeschool friends.

- We had some produce that we aren't going to be able to use. I donated it to the Pink House Little Free Pantry. I love donating to that particular pantry because if fresh items aren't collected right away the pantry manager shares them at the Franklin Library FLP. 

We are looking forward to a big adventure in the week to come. We'll see you here in TWO weeks for a huge Frugal Friday!

Happy Savings to All! 

Frugal Friday 369

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Here is how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- Mark worked many hours of overtime and I worked my Usborne Books & More Business.

- Last Friday, a bakery donated a huge aount of food to Mark's department so all were able to bring things home. He brought home donut holes, cupcakes, dinner rolls, and bagels. We served some over the weekend as we had company and then froze the rest.

- Saturday afternoon my Mama and I window shopped in downtown Franklin. We enjoyed looking through two little shops and didn't spend any money. 

- Saturday evening we had all of our parents over for a chilli dinner and Trick Or Treat. The kids LOVED trick or treating in our neighborhood and it was so fun to watch them choose their two pieces of candy to eat at the end of the night. 

Happy Halloween from the Woody, Annie, Daddy, and Mama

- Sunday evening Mark and I had a car date. We had to run to the grocery for one item but since my parents had the kids, we stopped for a milkshake and took a drive. It was a wonderful $10 recharge!

- Cassidy texted one night to let me know that Ibotta was giving away FREE Thanksgiving dinners from Walmart. I quickly hopped on and placed an order. There was a $35 minimum so I made sure to check out additional items that had $4.50 in rebates. Because it was the middle of the week and I redeemed so many rewards Ibotta gave me an additional $5. I referred a friend and earned an additional $10. In short, THEY PAID ME OVER $3 for $36 worth of items! Join Ibotta to save money too! 

Our FREE Thanksgiving themed meal.

I also purchased yogurt and laundry detergent and thanks

to Ibotta is was ALL FREE!

- We borrowed the materials we needed for school from the library. I love our amazing local libraries and we enjoy borrowing books, CDs, DVDs, etc for both school and pleasure from the library every week!

We had a nice, low key week. We are looking forward to a nice, long weekend!

Happy Savings to All! 

Frugal Friday 368

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Here is how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- Last Friday my sister came to town. She drove us to the park, on an errand, and to the library to pick up books. We were there just in time to see our library friends practice for the October Puppet Show. The shows are being done via Zoom but they let us in the rehersal. It was so cute and funny and my puppet obsessed kids LOVED seeing behind the scenes! Thank you to Tiffany, Kalen, Heather, Sarah, and Andrea. We love our library people!

- Saturday morning Mark took Annabeth to dance and my sister and I enjoyed brunch from Main & Madison Market Cafe. This was the first time I'd eaten there since last winter and it was, as always, great. Their chocolate chip cookies are amazing and it was so fun to have a car picnic with my sister.

- I began feeling poorly at the end of last week and the doctor confirmed I had an infection following surgery. I was able to try oral antibiotics and was able to stay home. I was thankful not to have to be admitted for IV meds at the hospital. The appointment and meds were just $30 OOP much more affordable than a hospital stay. I saw the doctor yesterday and the meds have not worked fully. I will go again Monday and hope to be feeling much better by then. 

- Sunday I stayed home to rest while Mark and the kids enjoyed lunch with his family. They were kind enough to send home pizza for me - thank you! We did end up missing a birthday party that evening though, I was not up to getting out and about.

- Monday our friend Katelyn brought us treats from the birthday party we missed. She made all kinds of homemade goodies and was kind enough to bring us lunch too! The kids enjoyed the Happy Meals and since I had already had my protein shake we took my meal to Mark which he really appreciated. 

- Tuesday evening we celebrated Halloween with Owen's Cub Scout Pack. They also received their first four belt loops that they have earned this year.

- Wednesday night Annabeth had the fun of wearing a Halloween costume to dance class. She said they did a Trunk or Treat in between classes and she brought home a gigantic bag of candy!

- Yesterday our friends stopped by on their way to Indy. Mark brought home a police car and Owen and the boys were able to work on a Cub Scout requirement by learning more about police work. The Eblings surprised Mark with a sweet care package (which ended up being his dinner as he worked a 15 hour day) We surprised their family with Enjoy Life Halloween candy bags. It was great to see you Eblings!

Mr. O was VERY happy to sit in a police car.

When asked who his hero is he said "Dad." 

- We have many people in our lives who are allergic to some, or all, of the Top 8 Allergens. We LOVE Enjoy Life Foods as they are made in a completely Top 8 free facility making them safe for all! I found that Kroger Shipped had them MUCH more affordable than at any local store. I was also able to get them shipped free. Just a heads up for other allergy friends. :) 

We had a busy week and are looking forward to enjoying Halloween!

Happy Halloween and Happy Savings to All! 

Laundry Room Makeover and Why I LOVE Doing Laundry

We began renovating our house in March 2013 and moved in July 2013. During that time we painted and redid every room except the laundry room. 

We bought the house from our friend Renee who built/decorated in 1998.

This laundry room felt like 1998.

Dark, dark red and baskets, birds, and birdhouse galore!

It was good enough though since no one saw it but me

Over the years, I thought about wanting to redo it but just never felt the right idea. 

Then about two years ago, while reading a decorating magazine at Momaw's, I saw the most beautiful pink and gold bathroom. I KNEW that was what I wanted! I have never been able to decorate my own space. Growing up I had the wallpaper my parents chose, then a dorm, than an apartment that Leah designed, and then spaces shared with Mark who clearly doesn't want pink or gold. I decided it would be my laundry room decor. 

One day, while at Lowe's we found the PERFECT pink paint in the mistint section and paid just $9 for enough paint to paint the whole room! I found some decor items from around the house, paid $7 for a gold switch plate (probably the most ridiculous splurge of the whole thing), and had my friend Katelyn at No Strings Attached Signs created the perfect sign for my shelf. 

Laundry room perfection!

Mark had the idea for the laundry cart to hold all the cleaners and things.

He also added that giant rod so I can dry all things in the laundry room

instead of in the showers.

What it really looks like not styled for a picture.

The perfect gold switch plate.

When I was going through Pinterest looking for laundry ideas over the years, one thing I pinned over and over were signs with a certain saying: "I still remember the days when I prayed for what I have now"

In the years of waiting for children, in my darkest infertility moments, I would BEG God for children. These tearful prayers often came while doing laundry. I promised Him that I would love to clean little hands and faces, that I would read all the books, that I would devote myself to them, and that I would LOVE the laundry load of a big family. 

Even now, even after being a Mama for 9+ years, I LOVE the laundry. I pray for my family as I do our laundry. I thank the Lord that we can buy clothes that fit for all the seasons, I am thankful to wash muddy baseball pants and piles of tutus because my children are doing the things they love, and I am thankful to wash food stained clothes because it means we had enough to eat that day. In my laundry room I choose to thank and praise the Lord for all of my many blessings and for the gift of serving my family. 

#hysterectomyat33

 Almost two years ago, I posted this Thanksgiving Post about my favorite blessing that year - benign test results from a recent surgery. For nearly 18 months I was relatively pain and symptom free and I really believed that I had found a good solution for my endometrosis.

Then last spring, it was back. That same pain. That same discomfort. That same old same. It started as COVID started so I told myself that it was stress, that it would go away. It didn't.

This time, as the months went on, I began having complications that I had never had before. Finally, mid July I called my OBGYN and after hearing my symptoms they gave me the first available appointment just a few days later.

I started with an ultrasound during which the ultrasound tech went from chatty to quiet. She started measuring. I told her, "I was diagnosed with endometriosis at 20. I can see that it's all back." Then I saw a mass. I knew that it was new. My appointment an hour later confirmed that. All of the endometriosis I had cleared out in 2018 was back and worse than before. They had also found a tumor. 

My doctor assured me the tumor was relatively small and that there was one more pill he wanted me to try before having surgery - again. We discussed another laparoscopic cleanout and the potential benefits of doing a uterine ablation. He asked me to give it three cycles - 9 weeks. After the first pill pack, I was in more pain than ever. I tried to wait the full nine weeks but only made it six. The new scan showed that the tumor had grown.

My doctor was so quiet after the new scan. He finally said, "Are you okay with discussing a hysterectomy?" Ultimately, it was the right decision for me and my situation. After 13 years of endometriosis, the polyps/cancer scare in 2018, the damage done to my uterus during my last surgery, and this new tumor - I understood that it was done. My body was done. 

October 2, 2020 I had a total hysterectomy (removal of uterus, Fallopian tubes, and cervix). I stayed overnight in hospital and, with my doctor's permission, signed myself out about 18 hours after surgery to recover at home. The recovery has been long and hard. I am only 3 weeks in and it's been the most difficult/slowest recovery I have ever had. I stayed horizontal for the first five days, slowly moved to sitting, and am now doing some light movement and housework. The full recovery is 6-8 weeks. 

It has been physically painful and also emotional. We have known since Owen was born that we are complete. I've never had that feeling that someone else was coming but it's still so final, so permanent. I will never carry another baby and while I feel joy in the restoration of my health there is some sorrow in the loss of what might have been. The finality of this surgery has involved some processing on my end.

October 13, 2020 I received the news that everything the surgeon removed was once again BENIGN! Praise the Lord. 

I have debated sharing as this is deeply personal. It has impacted so much of my life, and very little of the lives of family/friends/readers, but I am different now. I wasn't sure if I would just go on like this huge thing never happened or if I would share. When the pain came back last spring, I never imagined this is where we would be in the fall. I share in the hope that someone else experiencing pain or discomfort will have the courage to mention it to their doctor and to seek help. Two years ago, I thought I just had some extra cramps so when they said the word cancer I was shocked. After surgery I was so relieved that I had taken the steps necessary to have surgery and get reults. 

I thank and praise the Lord for seeing me through this surgery, this recovery, and for giving me peace with this next phase of life. I am forever thankful for the friends and family who have poured love over us with prayers, cards, pumpkin bread, dinners, games for the kids, etc. I am so thankful for Mark who has been so patient and kind over the years as I have had days where I was in pain or needed extra rest, who completely agreed with and supported this decision which affects not only my ability to have more children but also his, and who has loved me so beautifully and so well this month (and always) 

Frugal Friday 367

 Happy Frugal Friday! 

Here is how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- Last Friday our best friends came for the day. Rose brought us lunch and delicious homemade cookies to celebrate Annabeth's birthday. The kids played and the mams talked for six hours which passed like six minutes.

- After a full day of company, we decided to do a low key dinner. We ordered pizza from a local pizza place and only had to cover the tip thanks to a generous giftcard from the Sichting Family. Thank you all.

- Mark worked a ton of overtime this week. His summer was a bit calmer than usual so the fall has been more wild than usual. I have been working 10-20 hours a week on my Usborne Books & More business. 

- Saturday morning Mark and Owen headed to Southeastway Park for a Wood Badge Ceremony. They enjoyed a few hours at the park and Owen reported the ceremony had very good cupcakes. Mark's mom picked up Annabeth from dance and bought lunch for Annabeth and myself. Thank you Kristi.

- Sunday we had Mark's family over for family lunch. Mark made chilli, cornbread, and homemade brownies. After everyone headed home the kids played outside in the leaves all afternoon. I love watching them have fun together!

- My dad was here Monday-Thursday to help with the kids. Each of the kids got a full date afternoon with Grandpa after the finished school. They traded books at free little libraries, shopped the used bookstore, visited the train ice cream station three times, and more. I am thankful for the memories they made and that in turn I got an afternoon alone with each of the kids to play games, color, and chat.

My boys doing afternoon school. 

- I had added an adorable pumpkin shirt to my Pinterest board. Instead of spending a huge amount on Etsy or an online boutique, I shopped with my friend Allison Wells at her online shop Splendid Sloth Crafts. I would much rather spend money with friends! Thank you Allison for customizing my order and shipping it affordable in just one week. 

- Wednesday night we treated my dad to dinner at Greek's. Again, thank you to the Sichting Family for the generous giftcard and the gift of dinner without cooking!

- We have hard water here in Central Indiana so our water heater and appliances really take a beating. Last night, Mark (with help from Owen) drained the water heater, cleaned it out, and replaced the insides. We do this about every 2-3 years to prolong the life of our water heater.

- Last night, I met with my committee for Annabeth's dance school. I really enjoyed catching up with my friend Angie (we are the committee) and the kids LOVED playing out back until it was dark. 

As of today, I am three weeks out from surgery. I am finally up and about, doing light housework, and getting outside some. Thank you to all of the amazing family and friends who have blessed us in the last few weeks - the prayers, cards, meals, etc have been an incredible blessing! THANK YOU!

We are looking for a weekend visit from another family member.

Happy Savings to All! 

Frugal Friday 366

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Here is how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money the past two weeks:

- Mark worked a great deal of overtime. His Chief has said many times that the pandemic has stopped many things this year but it has not stopped their ability to do good police work. Our community has been well served even during these difficult months.

- We celebrated Annabeth's 9th Birthday on October 5th. She and my Mama made homemade Garfield cakes for everyone. Mama and Dad found the pan at a consignment store and it quickly became one of Annabeth's favorite gifts.

- We gifted Annabeth many items that I hope she loves. I purchased most of them at small stores (mostly in Brown Co last spring) and from direct sales vendors like our friends Brittany Floyd with Thirty-One and Danielle Renbarger with Matilda Jane Clothing. In a year when small businesses need business more than ever it was my pleasure to shop with friends.

- Our neighbor's daughter called and said she had "a few clothes that might fit Owen" and could she bring them over. I said sure and she brought us a gigantic bag of clothing! Nearly all of it is his size or he will grow into over the next few years. We have all seasons covered in the next few sizes. We were so thankful for her generosity! 

These deer jammies were a HUGE hit!

- I ordered our Halloween cards from Shutterfly for FREE! Every October they offer 10 free holiday cards. Fun fact: You don't have to get the Christmas ones! I always order Halloween. It makes a nice keepsake to send to family/friends and it's a fun way to look back at all of their Halloween costumes. 

- I ordered a decent number of the same item from Etsy. The seller was kind enough to message me with a 10% bulk coupon code as well as a free shipping code. This saved me nearly $15. I look forward to gifting a special group of people with handcrafted gifts. 

- During Annabeth's Kindergarten Christmas, we got her a toiletry bag because she began going to camp that next summer. I splurged during a sale and got the Mackenzie travel bag from Pottery Barn Kids and we haved LOVED it! It has held up so well and has so many great pockets. They were on sale for $19 this week so I snagged one for Owen's Kindergarten Christmas this year.

- I took advantage of one Amazon Prime Sale. I combined a sale, free shipping, and gift card to get an item for just $14 OOP. 

- I did grocery pick up for the first time. I chose to do it at Mejier because they had a free pick-up for your first order and $15 off a $50+ order. We were able to order our usual grocery order, use online coupons/sales, and got the extra $15 off! 

The reason for our two week break in posts was that I had major surgery on October 2. This surgery came up quickly and so I didn't tell lot of people. We are endlessly thankful for those who did know and who served our family so kindly. Thank you to those who brought dinners, baked goods, help with the kids, magazines to read, gift cards, words of encouragements, prayers over texts, and most of all to my Mama and Dad who have taken turns staying with us and helping us clean clothes, cooking good food, and creating endless fun for the kids. I am eternally grateful for Mark and his steadfastness and kindness in all circumstances. I am also confident that this was God's plan and even when I have been unsure and weak, He knows what comes next and is my strength. 

Nine.

 Today our Miracle Girl is NINE.

Nine years ago today was the tipping point in my life. While I had experienced pain, loss grief, sadness, and joy I had never before (and never again) experienced it the way I did the morning of October 5, 2011. To lose our girl, to not know if she was alive, to wonder how I would ever move on if good news didn't come from the NICU, and the incredible joy of learning that she lived. I have never been so terrified, so dependent on God, so lost in a moment as I was that morning.  

For years I struggled with immense grief at knowing just how it feels to see a lifeless child. I struggled with the anger of an experience that I later felt could have been avoided. It was so difficult and confusing that no one else seemed to understand. I wanted to scream if one more person said, "Thank goodness she is healthy now. You're both okay." I wasn't okay, she wasn't okay. We spent years seeing specialists, meeting a very high out of pocket deductible year after year. I physically and emotionally wasn't okay. It took so much therapy and so multiple surgeries to "fix" me. 

Today marks nine years of survival - for all of us.

We waited so long to have a baby and were so thankful for God's goodness and grace in saving her. That afternoon, meeting her in NICU, I promised her that if she would just hang in here on earth, that we would give her the world. She did - so we do.

At nine, Annabeth is funky, creative, kind, and growing more and more into her own person. Last week, we had her friend party with some homeschool friends and it was so fun to watch her pick "The Babysitters Club" as a theme. She decorated the mantle with books, created her own Claudia Kishi costume, and then designed/baked/decorated her own dream Barbie cake. 

We decorated the mantle with all of Annabeth's BSC Books

Bright shoes, funky socks, embellished overalls, pink hair - she came 

to her party as Claudia Kishi

Annabeth planned, shopped for, designed, baked,

and decorated her own cake!

There are so many days when I want to just cry at how old she is but I never, never take a moment for granted. We're so unbelievably blessed to be her parents, for God's faithfulness in restoring her heart and giving her very few complications from birth. 

So, my dear Annabeth Sage, on your #9 - Thank you. Thank you for being patient while I learned to parent and while we worked too hard to protect you. Thank you for being kind, loving, and sweet to everyone. Thank you for serving others and for loving your brother. We are so thankful that you are ours, our Miracle Girl. 

Frugal Friday 365

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Here is how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- Friday evening we had friends over after dinner. The kids played and the adults talked and we stayed out until it was dark. It was the perfect end of summer/early fall evening. 

- Saturday we went to Taylor's Farm Market in Whiteland to get our produce for the week. We were able to get all that we needed, from a local farmer, for under $20!

- After the farm market, we surprised the kids with treats from the Train Ice Cream Station. Mark and the kids each got a treat (all for under $5) and we took a nice, long walk down to the courthouse and then around downtown. 

- After family dinner, chic pea tacos and Mexican corn, we watched Hocus Pocus to kick off our fall/Halloween season. 

- Sunday evening I spent 3 hours dropping off nearly 800 items to the Here We Grow Again - Indy South Sale. This year I had our own items and four express families. I am so thankful for this part time gig that helps bring in money that makes vacations and dance travel much easier for us. 

- Last week I splurged and purchased Owen a $20 Halloween costume. So far it's been worth it as he has barely taken it off. 

- Tuesday afternoon Annabeth had an appointment in Greenwood. We got school done early so we headed to a park to hike in the woods for more than an hour before her appointment. I am deeply committed to us spending at least one hour a day outdoors. 

- Wednesday night I shopped the Here We Grow Again Indy South Sale. I came out after spending only 50% of my budget. I found most of what I needed and items were REALLY well priced this sale! I got a Matilda Jane shirt for Annabeth (just $4), pajamas for Annabeth, a Carhartt sweatshirt for Owen (again just $4), and baseball cleats, belt, and socks (just $9 for all and they are all Nike brand). Shopping for the sale runs through the weekend and admission/parking is free at the Johnson County Fairgrounds. Be sure to stop by tomorrow to shop 50% day!

- Last night, Mark visited a friend who farms. He gifted us four watermelons. We already passed one along to friends and will enjoy or share the rest. 

We are looking forward to the weekend, a special visitor, and please if you would prayers for an unspoken prayer request. We'll be back in 2 weeks for a MEGA Frugal Friday post! 

Happy Savings to All! 

Frugal Friday 364

Happy Frugal Friday!

Here is how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- Mark did a massive clothes cleanout. We took one giant trash bag to donate of his shirts and pants.

- Friday afternoon we went to the park to play for a while. After the park, we pre-shopped a friends' garage sale. For $28 we brought home 1 GIANT pop-up book, 2 chapter books, 1 activity book, 4 pairs of jeans for O, 2 shirts for O, 3 skirts for Annabeth, 1 dress for Annabeth, 1 pair of shoes for Annabeth, doll clothes, and 1 pair of jeans for me. The shoes alone would have been $55 at the store! Thank you Tarvin Family for letting us shop early!

- Sunday we enjoyed lunch with Mark's parents and then headed to the apple orchard. We met up with Luke, Cassidy, and Jackson and all picked apples, played on the playground, and the kids had apple slushies. It was a gorgeous day which meant it was super crowded. We headed to Southeastway Park to play for a while. I SO love having my kids grow up close to both side of the family 

Apple Orchard Fun

- Tuesday the kids enjoyed a Zoom puppet show put on by some of our favorite Library Ladies. After dinner, we headed to library for three new bags of books. I love exploring through books with the kids and I am so thankful for our local libraries.

- Wednesday we picked up the mums from Annabeth's fall dance fundraiser. We enjoyed delivering them to friends and family this week. Thank you to everyone who purchased. 

- I have tried to buy fall birthday and Christmas gifts from local stores or direct sales businesses but I did score a few deals on Zulily. One box came early in the week and had free snack samples! Then a second box came it had our name and address but the order inside wasn't ours. When I called Customer Service they said it had already been resolved at their shipping place and that we could keep/donate the items inside. We got snack samples again as well as three masks and a vegetable scrub brush. I never would have ordered those things but free is always nice! They also gave me a $10 credit for the "hassle" 

- We spent many mornings and evenings outside. Owen has REALLY been working on riding his bike without training wheels. I think he'll have it soon if he just lets himself be brave!

- Frugal Fail: This fall we have had many days where we have needed/will need long hours of childcare. In the past, I have often traded with friends for a short appointment here and there but these long days would impose on their homeschool days. Almost all of our doctors' offices have limited visits to one child/the parent so I have to leave the other with a sitter. We have been fortunate enough to find a dependable college girl who actually plays with our kids (board games, dance parties, outdoor play, etc) but it's going to be very pricey as the fall goes on. 

We are looking forward to a weekend of getting lots of projects done as a very special girl has a birthday next weekend!

Happy Savings to All! 

Frugal Friday 363

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Here is how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- Last Friday, we drove down to Evansville. We celebrated my sister's birthday and had a special dinner cooked by Mama at home. We were happy to gift Lu all gifts purchased at small businesses in Nashville and Franklin and also from a home-based direct sales business. We know that this year shopping small and shopping local will be more important than ever.

- Saturday Mark and the kids hit some end of summer sales at sporting goods stores. They found a new pair of tennis shoes for Annabeth and a baseball helmet for Owen at great prices. After a quick lunch at the house, they headed to the lake for an afternoon out on the boat with my dad.

- Saturday Mama, Lu, and I headed to Owensboro for the day. My Momaw (age 90) was in the hospital recently. This was the first time I had been down to see her. It was such a blessing to spend the day with my best friends, the lovely women of my family and to have another little celebration for Lu's birthday.

- Sunday, before driving home, we went to Reimann's Farm Market in Darmstadt. They have really expanded from their little road-side stand from my childhood and now have mini golf, toy cars to race, and tons of fresh, local produce. We loaded up on local honey as well as our produce for the next few weeks. After we checked out, we hopped in some golf carts and the owner took us on a tour of the fields. She explained planting, growing, and harvest seasons to the kids. She answered our questions about growing our own garden and then allowed the kids to pick their own pumpkins off the vine. 

Pumpkins picked straight off the vine. 

- Sunday evening when we got back in town Mark made a quick grocery run. He spent about $90 for the next week and a half of groceries. 

- Our friend Jeanette shared a Hello Fresh code and we got three FREE meals! Thank you Jeanette - they will be our weekend dinners! You can get $40 off your first order here. 

- Tuesday evening, Owen had his first Lions meeting. Mark has been involved with scouting for over 25 years and he is very excited to share his love of Scouting with Owen. Also, if you feel so inclined, Owen is selling popcorn to help raise money for dues and for his troop fund. You can support his popcorn sale here. 

- Wednesday night I dropped Annabeth off at dance class and then delivered books in Greenwood. I am SO thankful for friends and customers who reach out and say "Do you have _____?" and let me help them meet their book needs. 

- Yesterday afternoon, the kids enjoyed some park play while I enjoyed a outdoors, socially distant craft class through our local libraries. I was glad to get outside with friends! We also traded veggies while there - we got tomatoes from a friend's garden and she got spaghetti squash from our over order/under eating of them this week.

We had a great week and are looking forward to a busy weekend with dance, fall sale prep, and work for Mark.

Happy Savings to All! 

Frugal Friday 362

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Here is how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- Saturday we enjoyed dressing up for the Kentucky Derby. With Oscar still recovering from surgery, we were not able to go to Kentucky but we enjoyed wearing horse clothes and our special derby hats anyway. 

                                     Annabeth and I had a special sushi at the park date before the race. She had                                                      requested some time out just the two of us and I was happy to say "yes!"

 Annabeth and Owen in their special Derby outfits. Annabeth's horse dress and hat were gifts from Grandmama-Mimi. Owen chose to wear his Louisville Cardinals hat and Matilda Jane horse shirt that I found on Zulily (just $9.99) last fall.  

- Sunday we enjoyed cleaning the yard after church. We are in the process of cleaning out our toy area and prepping for a garden for next year. The kids are VERY excited about this project and at ages 9 and 6 next summer we know they will be great ages to say good-bye to their toddler toys and hello to gardening fun.

- Sunday afternoon we had lunch with Mark's family. I especially enjoyed playing with my 18 month old nephew while his dad played games with Owen and Annabeth. Mark's parents generously sent us home with many leftovers to enjoy this week.

- Monday morning we got up early and went to Sunset Park in Shelbyville to hike the river. It was cloudy for a while and then we got to see the sun come out over the river which was really beautiful. The kids loved looking for shells/rocks, hiking in the water, and challenging limits by going just a bit too deep at times. We were pleasantly surprised when a kayaking couple stopped to talk and let the kids take rides in their kayaks! Thank you kind strangers for the fun surprise! 

Trying out the kayaks!

You never know what might happen if you say "hello" to someone! 

- We did a little fill in grocery trip last weekend and then made due for the week. I love doing this in between big shopping trips to help us really eat everything we buy. I earned $4.25 back with Ibotta. 

- We paid Annabeth's dance class fees in full for the year. We saved 5% by doing this. 

We had a good, short school week (unfortunately still long work week for Mark) and are looking forward to a weekend visit with family.

Happy Savings to All!