Saturday, September 24, 2011

Our sweet little Aiden

On September 9, 2011, we welcomed our 6th grandchild, Aiden Blake Story, to our sweet family. We are so thankful to the Lord that he is here and doing great!!! There were a several weeks that we were worried that he was going to be born early and not ready to be here. But he was born just on time. We know that God has a plan for this special baby boy.

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Aiden Blake Story, 5lbs 12oz, 20” long

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Aiden is welcomed home by is Big Brother Reed. DSC03654

This is Reed and his daddy, Curt just before Curt went to help get baby Aiden here. How precious is this!!!

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As you can see Reed was all smiles seeing baby brother for the first time. Do you just love his shirt. We made it at the store and ended up making him two more call that’s just about all he wants to wear.

We didn’t get to hold the baby because Gracanne was having a little trouble with her temperature and they didn’t want to bring him to her until she was stable. We also had to hurry home so we could help with Reed while his Nene went to a funeral visitation for a dear family in Magnolia who lost their husband, daddy, grandpa, etc.

We are going to pick up Aiden on Monday and keep him for a couple of days. Gracanne needs some sleep and they are getting ready to move in the next week. Can’t wait!!!!

Blessings from Grams,

Sharing life

Good Morning, I can’t believe it’s been almost two months since I’ve posted. Our life has been crazy, like always and I’ve just let my blog go by the way side. I probably have been doing some of nothing too or just some mindless junk.

Well since I’ve been here we have been on two trips will share more about that later, pictures involved and preparing for our Mission trip to Slovenia in October. We are so excited about this trip. We will be gone 16 days and hope to share so much and be a blessing along the way. My plan is to share with you all along the way via my blog. Hope you will enjoy it.

Hope you have missed me as much as I have missed you. Watch for my trip pictures.

Blessings, Lori

Sunday, August 7, 2011

Quite Sunday

Today has been a wonderful day. Spent the morning at Sunday School and Church. It was a wonderful sermon on “How to build your life well” 1 Cor. 3:10-15. The main thing that was impressed upon my heart today was, God has trusted me with my life. WOW that is BIG.

Hope you had a restful Lord’s day. Blessings, Lori

Saturday, August 6, 2011

Cleaning all day long…..

So glad to be back. I will share with you over the next few weeks what I have been up to but today I wanted to discuss our day of cleaning. We cleaned and cleaned and cleaned some more and we’ve just made a small dent. First we worked in the kitchen, then to our bedroom where we moved everything, on to the guest room where we moved out some furniture and finally to the family room for the basics. While we were in the kitchen we cleaned the refrigerator condenser coils. How often do you clean yours? We are suppose to clean them every 6 months. I don’t know about you but I don’t. But I plan to do better. We are trying to take better care of ourselves and the things we have.  While moving things around in our bedroom we needed to move the TV around. We still have one of those HUGE small TV’s. What about you… any of the older TV’s in your house?  I have one more question for you today. Does your husband help you with house work? I am VERY thankful that mine does. He helped all day. Over the years I’ve come to the conclusion that if a woman works outside the home her husband should help. I’m not saying that they shouldn’t if you are a stay at home Mother, please don’t think that. I know that you have one of the hardest jobs on the planet. I just know that it encourages me to have the additional help and not feel like everything is my responsibility.    

Looking forward to hearing from you,

Lori

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Blogger Changes

I'm not sure about you but I am VERY frustrated with the new blogger changes. I can't see the blog updates from my favorites and I don't know how to fix it. I don't like the new look of the home page and I can't open more than one blog at a time. Any suggestions for me?
Blessings, Lori

Monday, July 4, 2011

Our American Flag

As we celebrate our Independence Day, what do you know about the American Flag? One thing that I have learned over the years is that unless you are in the military, police or fireman you are not suppose to wear one on your clothes in any way. It should not be used in advertising. WOW!!!
Take a look at this site:http://www.usa-flag-site.org/etiquette.shtml
Blessing to you and your family on this 4th of July.
Lori

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Been gone to long...

Happy Sunday to you. It has been well over a month since I've posted anything.  We have been really busy at work and I started giving swimming lessons May 30th. I love working with children in the water. It is one of my favorite things. I would give up my day job to do it full time if I could. But this year I promised Lynn that I would cut back some because of all the things that went on while caring for Mrs. Story. He felt like I needed to take a break. I have had 3 Great weeks with only 1 day of rain that I will be making up this coming week. For some reason I have the sinus, crud stuff like I had in February and March. I did go to the doctor right away so that it would get really bad. I've been on antibiotics for 6 days and don't seem a lot better. I can hardly talk which is a bad thing for me. LOL I also can't hear very good when my ears are clear so you just about have to holler at me.  LOL. You just have to laugh. So on this 4th of July weekend I am just resting. There are so many things I need to be doing besides laying on this couch. We had plans to go to Texarkana to try and find me a new swim suit. Lynn told me last week that you can see through the back of the one I have. I already threw away my very favorite one because it was wore out. Being in the pool giving  lessons they break down quick. I guess we will go later in the week. Hopefully I will be up and ready to swim by Thursday. We had one of our grandson's last week while his Momma was out of town. Connor was such a sweet and helpful boy. We had a good week.
Blessings, Lori

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Never been so tired...

First I want to say a Thank you for those special comments. They are so special to me. We have been through so much since I've posted. I wanted to shared a few things mostly for me to remember. We rushed to have the visitation on Sunday and the graveside service on Monday. Wanted to make it easy on everyone. I filled out the information for the funeral home and obituary trying to get help from the sons. Guess what? I failed to list Mrs. Story's only living brother. I got the ones that have passed on. I was really upset but it was to late. On Sunday morning we had to go to the funeral home to make sure she look OK. She looked so much better than she did the last weeks but her hair was a mess. So I got a pick comb and some hairspray and went to work. By the time I finished she looked really good. I've never done anything like that before but I knew it needed to be done. We decided that we would leave the casket open for about 30 minutes for the family then close it before the visitation and keep it closed at the service. Mrs. Story was a private lady and we didn't think she would want folks looking at her. Jodi(our daughter), Michelle(our nurse for them) and I carried Mr. Story to the church to eat lunch and to the service. Our church, Central Baptist, is wonderful when you loose someone. They fix a meal for the family on the day of the funeral. Thanks to them for all they do. And a special thanks to Jodi for all her help. I couldn't have made it these last two months with out her. She would stay with the Story's when I didn't have someone, to give me a break. She worked at the store, went to the store, just anything we needed. Back to the visitation. I spent most of the time with Mr. Story and I tell you it was one of the hardest things I've ever done. He began patting her head/hair and lips then her arms. Then he stood up and began kissing her on forehead and lips. He was trying to see if she was really dead. Oh my, I began to cry. I was trying so hard not to cry in front of him. I spent the rest of the hour and a half wiping his tears, assuring him that she was with Jesus and that we would take good care of him. There were lots of visitors that shared how sweet Mrs. Story was and how much they loved her. We then went to their house for some wonderful food that was prepared by the sweet folks at Kathy's Dance Arts Studio in Magnolia. I was so thankful that Josh and his precious girlfriend spent the night with us. Monday is kind of a blur. We met at the church for lunch and headed to the cemetery for the service. I was sure to add her brother and the Bro. Mike did a wonderful job. Mr. Story started crying the minute we got there. I sat with him while we were there and Lynn has to set by himself. I felt so torn with where I should be. My cousin Bille and her husband came and locked their keys in the truck. The nicest locksmith came and opened it without charging them. After the service we went to the Story's for some stories. We had a blast. I know Nanny would have been happy. Laura, Jeremy, Jodi and the grands were at our house while the babies napped. Laura was so sweet to clean up my kitchen. What a blessing the kids have been. The days since the service have been hard. I miss Nanny but I'm so thankful that she isn't suffering any longer. Papaw seems to be doing better. He hasn't cried much and has been sleeping all night. We are so thankful for that. My brain has just not wanted to work. Tuesday we opened the store and I was a mess. I just couldn't make my brain work. I just couldn't. Lynn finally sent me home to rest. I was better on Wednesday and Thursday but Friday was brain mush again. I haven't slept very good. I think I have my days and nights mixed up. My plan for this long weekend is to rest and try to clean up some of this house that has been neglected for a couple of months. I have slept off and on all today. I hope by Tuesday morning I will be back to my old self. Happy Memorial Day Weekend. Remember those who have given their lives for us all.
Blessings, Lori

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Waking up with Jesus

Mrs. Story is waking up with Jesus today. She passed away yesterday at 9:03 in the morning. We are so blessed and thankful in knowing that she is no longer suffering, no longer struggling for a breath, no longer longing to be with her Lord and Savior. She was such a wonderful Christian lady who wanted all her family members to know and have a relationship with the Lord. She started reading her Bible through on January 1, 2011 with our church and kept up until her last days of which our special care givers continued in reading it to her until the end. What a testamony to her loved ones about her relationship with the Lord.
"A faith that fizzles before the finish, was faulty from the start." Isaiah 58:13 I found this in her bible and this is how she felt. Her faith and love for the Lord was her life. She and Monroe, her husband had the most wonderful marriage and love for each other. I've never had the opportunity to see this before. When Mr. Story came in the room after she had been gone for a while. He stood up out of his wheel chair and kissed her on the mouth. I could only cry. The love of his life was gone.  He has sat with her, patted her, prayed over her, helped her do all those things she couldn't because of RA for the past years. What an example of what real love is. My prayer is that the family will see that this is how God planned for marriage to be. We will celebrate her life today and tomorrow. You can find the information on her services at the following link.

http://lewisfh.funeralplan2.com/obituaries.aspx?turl=http://aurora-24607.tributes.com/show/Marilyn-Taylor-Story-91524649
Because of who He is, Lori

Friday, May 20, 2011

Dying process...

Mrs. Story made it through the surgery great but woke up extremely mad. She thinks that we are trying to prolong her life and is ready to die. She has been saying for months that she is tired and ready to go on. I know she has to be. The COPD has made her life so hard. But having surgery to repair the hip was mainly for comfort. She wouldn't work with therapy so they just sent us home and she was doing pretty good. On Wednesday things changed and she has crossed over into the dying process. The hospice nurse called me to tell me it could be anytime. I went and spent the rest of the day with her but she was still really mad at me and let's just say it was better for me not to be in the room with her. She wouldn't swallow so I would have to blow up her nose to make her so she could take the morphine. I have been pushed harder and further than ever with Nanny(that what we call her) than ever before. Many medical procedures that one should never have to do to anyone but their children when they are babies. The Lord has been faithful to give me the strength to do it. During all this we are having the busiest week we have the whole year at the store. Trying to be there and with Nanny has been a challenge. I had to work yesterday morning, there are lots of folks counting on us. I got a call from the nurse that I needed to come it was really close. I spent the afternoon and evening with her just holding her hand. I think she is not as mad as she would let me sit there with her. She has been close several times in the last two days which is such a drain. My sister-in-law, Karen, spent the afternoon with me which was wonderful. Our husbands just can't be there. Hers is better than mine but they just can't and that's OK. God has given us to one another to be what the other can't be. I am so thankful that he choose me to take care of her. Please pray for our family as we continue this process. God is so faithful we know and know that His plan will will be done.
Because of His promise, Lori

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Sad and mad all at the same time

Have you ever been sad and mad all at the same time? Well I am and have been all day. We have round the clock care for my in-laws because they can no longer care for themselves. But Mrs. Story is so hard headed and continues to get Mr. Story to help her when he shouldn't . He tried to get her up during the early morning with out asking for help and they fell. He is fine, but she has a broken hip and arm. We spent most of the day at the ER in our home town and are now in ElDorado where she will have hip surgery in the morning. She has COPD(never smoked in her life) and is in the end stages with that. They will be giving her a spinal because she can't be put to sleep. My prayer is that this all will go well.
Now here's the mad... I am so mad because she won't listen to anyone. "I'm going to do what I want" is her attitude. We have been telling her for weeks not to let Mr. Story do things for her. Now here we are. This is one of the busiest week in our business and it looks like I can't be there. Lynn, my husband will have to be there so that I can be here. I'M JUST MAD!!!!

Here's the sad... it breaks my heart to see her in so much pain. She really is a sweet lady and I love her very much. It breaks my heart that Mr. Story can't be with her. He is so precious and loves her so much. He pats her hand and face when she is sick. I have never seen a man love a woman so much. I only hope Lynn will love me that much.

So there is my heart.
Blessings, Lori

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

My Favorite Food… PIZZA & I’m giving some away!!!!

I love PIZZA so much it is my favorite food. If I was stranded on an island and could only have one food it would be pizza. So I was excited to try the FRESCHETTA® SIMPLY...INSPIRED™ pizza.

FRESCHETTA® Simply Inspired Farmers Market VeggieFRESCHETTA® Simply Inspired Rustic Pepperoni Pomodoro

We tried the Rustic Pepperoni Pomodora and it was AWESOME. The thin crust was crispy of which I love. The pizza is larger and has more toppings than you usually get on a frozen pizza.

 FRESCHETTA® SIMPLY...INSPIRED™ offers FRESCH-TASTE SEAL™ Packing which locks in the vibrant flavors, while using 30% less packaging material.

There are eight different pizzas that offer very distinctive flavors: Farmers Market Veggie, Southern BBQ Recipe Chicken, Tuscan Farmhouse, Chicken Bianco, Hawaiian Style, Classic Bruschetta and Harvest Supreme.

SIMPLY...INSPIRED™ A Celebration of Great Taste™
Check them out on Face Book they will be giving away coupons. http://www.facebook.com/FreschettaSimplyInspired

I will be giving away a coupon for a free FRESCHETTA® SIMPLY...INSPIRED™ pizza of your choice and   FRESCHETTA® bamboo cutting board.

To enter you need to be a follower of LorisStorys and leave a comment of which pizza you would try.

Hope you win!!!!

Blessings, Lori

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Winner

I am so totally excited that I am the winner... from over at GUSSY. She has some awesome things!!! She was giving away a signed copy of Vintage Notions by Amy Barickman. You can read about it here.
http://www.gussysews.com/2011/04/win-a-signed-copy-of-vintage-notions-by-amy-barickman/
This is the most awesome prize!!!!! One of those give aways that I REALLY wanted!!!
Blessings to you all,
Lori

Sunday, May 1, 2011

In transition

My life is truly in transitional place right now and while on this trip the Lord is helping me as I’m making some much needed changes in my life. One is my blog, I have struggled over the last few months in doing what “I” want with my blog. I love contest, crafting, blog hops and reading everyone’s blogs. But that takes tons of the time I have left from just life. It is so easy to get caught up in it all and let the things that you need to do go. So after opening up and letting God work and knowing that I need to put Him first in my life I will be using this blog a little differently. If I have stopped following you, I hope you will understand. I will still be following those that have craft ideas and will be saving those that I really like and want to make when the time is right. I will enter some contest but only those that I have time for and those that are really something I’d like to have (Silhouette for sure). I may offer a give away from time to time and will have our products from time to time but mostly I will blog about my life, my family and my Lord. That will take lot of time cause we are a busy bunch. My prayer is that you will see the love of the Lord in my blog. I wanted to share with you the following.
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http://www.number17cherrytreelane.com/2011/04/quitting-can-be-ok.html

During my struggle, I was reading this post from Rachel and began to giggle. God is so funny at times. He knew just what I needed that day. Showing me just what He had for me through the words from a sister in Christ. I am so thankful that He loves me no matter what.                                                                            Blessings, Lori

Saturday, April 9, 2011

A Little Birdy told me….

Ladies, I am way late in getting this to you. But you still have time to play. Over at Just Birdy she is having an awesome give-away I think you should go over and check it out. Jess has beautiful blog, one of my favorites!!! She also does some blog designing, I’m just finding out. Very talented!!! As part of the give-away I am giving away one of the most precious diaper covers I’ve ever seen. One of my blog buddies, Melissa from Preserved Photography is sharing some photo image blocks. They are beautiful and I would love to have them. There are lots of other treats in this give-away!!! So check out the link below (I hope it works, I’m not to techy), you won’t be disappointed. <a href=http://justbirdyblog.blogspot.com/2011/04/birdys-big-give-away.html#>Birdy’s Big Give-Away</a> Thank you, Jess for choosing me to participate in this give-away!! I do love a good give-away… I also love to win!!!!! LOL                                             Blessings, Lori

Friday, April 8, 2011

The Greatest Spot/Stain Remover

I have been wanting to share some different things which I hope will be of some help to everyone. So today I’m starting with this wonderful stain remover that I found about a year ago. Grandma’s Secret Spot Remover. I was checking out at Hancocks in Shreveport  and the sales clerk talked me into to buying it. Boy I’m glad that she did. I had a white polo that I had gotten makeup on a few years ago and had been washed and dried a many times. I decided to try to get these spots out first. I put the remover on the spots a few times over a couple of days, washed it and it was just like brand new!!! I couldn’t believe it. There hasn’t been one time that I’ve used it that the stains didn’t come out. You can purchase this at most fabric stores. Grandma's Secret Grandma's Secret Spot Remover 2 Ounces GS1001; 6 Items/OrderThis is just a personal review. I didn’t receive anything for this. Hope you will check it out and let me know what you think.                                                                                 
Blessings, Lori

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

March Craft Swap & Special Gifts

Good Evening, I hope this finds you doing well today. I am so happy to be sharing with you this wonderful craft I made for the March craft swap. I sent it out weeks ago but forgot to take a picture. I wanted to do something special for the ladies staying with the Story’s and I thought this would be perfect. Don’t you just love this?????

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                  This is what it looks like in the frame!

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Hope you enjoyed it as much as I did making it! Blessings, Lori

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Smocking for love…

I am smocking for one special baby that should be born in the next month. One of the young ladies that works with us who is also my daughters life long best friend and my other child is going to have a baby in late April and I told her I would smock something for the baby to come home in. We know that the baby is a “He” and his name is Harlin. I am going to make a bubble outfit. This is how much I have done. smocking project                                                            I have a few ducks to add along with some buttons. I think it’s going to be beautiful. The last smocked item I made was a gown for the birth of my 4th grandchild. We didn’t know the sex until Graham was born. We had a family gown that I made 12 years ago but had a little accident with it. I’ll have to share that another time. I worked on this today while I took the day shift with the Story’s. We are still needing help for the weekends. Hopefully we will be set by next weekend. God has been so awesome providing the help he has. Mrs. Story has been lots better the last two days. Thank you, Lord. Hope you have a wonderful week. I have lots to share this week. I hope to have the time.

Blessings, Lori

Thursday, March 24, 2011

24 Hours in a Day

This evening I'm still at work while the embroidery machine is still running a job that has over 54000 stitches, and I'm tired. I got here at 6:30AM and been on the run since.
These last few days have been really stressful. Hospice is in place for Mrs. Story and we have secured at home care during the day. We spoke with the nurse today and she suggested that we begin to find round the clock care. That is 24 hours!!!!!! It is hard to find someone that wants to work for 8 hours let alone 24. It's just almost more than my mind can get around! I hate managing people, in fact I'm horrible at it. God just didn't give me that gift. I can but I stink at it. I just want everyone to do their job. I have two employees at the store and now it looks like I'm gonna have at least 5 more!!!!!
The lady we have for the day is AWESOME!!!!!!! She does a great job and I don't have to worry about anything while she is there.
I am so THANKFUL!!! There is always a beautiful flower in the garden you just have to look for it.
As you can see I'm really tired and rambling.
Hope to share soon.
Because He first loved me,
Lori

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Life Touch Hospice

Heading down to the Story's to get Hospice set up. Mrs. Story is not feeling well today, her breathing is labored, more than usual. I am hoping to get her some antiobatic for the lung infection that I know she has. No I'm not a doctor or nurse but I have taken care of her and my parents long enough to know when they need something medical. Guess I should have been a nurse.
Blessings, Lori
P. S. While I'm waiting I will be smocking something special. Can't wait to finish it and show you.

Saturday, March 19, 2011

Sharing My Heart

Today I just want to share what is really on my heart. We are in the process of making decisions concerning my in-laws. They are precious Christians who love the Lord but need lots of help. They have needed help for several years but the their sons (my husband & his brother) just couldn’t bring themselves to make them do it. Here is a little background. Mrs. Story (AKA Nanny) is 88 years old, she has COPD (never smoked a day in her life) and RA. She can do very little for herself and it’s been that way for years. Mr. Story (AKA Papaw) is 87 and has Alzheimer's or Dementia. I think there both the same. He can remember a few things but not much. For the last 15 years he has been the hands & feet in the relationship and she has been the brains. He can no longer remember the things he needs to do for her and she is unable to make him understand what to do. She has lost over 10lbs in the last 3 months. Most of us would say that would be Great, however that bring her weight to 68lbs. She is all skin & bones. I tried for a couple of years to get them to agree to some help. No way was that happening. My husband has the most tender heart and doesn’t want to hurt their feelings or make them mad. His brother is unengaged and not ready to deal with the fact they are old and can’t care for themselves any longer. Lynn goes to their house in the morning during the day and in the evening. Over the last few weeks they have called at night for him to come over for something. He is completely worn out!!! This evening we had a family meeting with Lynn’s parents & his brother. They decided to have hospice come and we would see about the other help. Mrs. Story is just unwilling to help us help her. I plan to move forward in getting help for them full time. Thank you for allowing me to vent! Please pray for us as we make these necessary changes.                                                                              Blessings, Lori                                         

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Craft Swap

These are the thing I received from my March Craft Swap!!! I think they are precious but I LOVE the necklace! Many of you know that may birthday is in February so I love anything hearts!!! I've already sent my March swap and can't wait to see what I will receive.
Happy St Patrick's Day, Lori

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Cricut Gifts

Happy Sunday, I hope everyone is having a wonderful day. I am inside for what I hope to be my last Sunday. Started some new medicane today and I'm actually not coughing as much.
I wanted to share one of my newest crafts for the craft swap I'm participating in over at The Great Create. I didn't get my February craft out until last week because I was sick so she got a March and April craft. I hope she liked it as much as I did making them, one for her and one for me. I got this idea from one of the wonderful blogs I follow just can't remember who. I will find out and post it.
For the clovers I used the Cricut Doodlecharm cartridge and cut out 3 hearts on 3/4" of 4 different papers for each picture. The stems were made by hand just cutting out what I thought one should look like. I placed them and attached them using Creative Memories Tape Runner. I've used Creative Memories since I began Scrapbooking over 7 years ago thanks to Gail Wood. I love her so much!!!! I use foam behind the butterfly to help it stand out. It was placed in a frame that is like a shadow box which makes it look 3D. I just love these.

Now on to the part that's my favorite. I turned the paper over and began to make something for April. Here is the final pictures. I used the Doodlecharm cartridge for the basket and the eggs. The bunny and tag were from the Stretch Your Imagation cartridge.  I hope you enjoyed seeing my Cricut Craft Project! You can email me at itsybitsystitches@gmail.com if you have any questions or would like additional information about these.
Many Blessings to you, Lori

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Look what I won!!!

Hello I have been away from my blog a couple of weeks while I've been sick but hopefully I'm back for good. I have so much to share with you but I wanted to do this first. Recently I have won a couple of give-aways and I was soooo excited! I love winning and surprises!!!!! This is what I received from Natalie over at NatSprat. . She has an Mommy's Idea
awesome blog with lots of tutorials, crafts and much more to share. Head over there see what she is sharing today. When I opened the envelope this is what I found. It was wrapped so beautifully and a felt hair clip was attached to make me feel special. This precious cupcake pin cushion was all snuggled up waiting on me. I can't wait to use it. It is going to be so cute in my sewing/craft room. Thank you Natalie for the wonderful give-away. I LOVE IT!!!!


I never ever win anything. I guess I can't say that anymore. Can't wait to share with you my next win, will do that when I receive it. Thank you again Natalie!
Blessings to you all,
Lori

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Missing Graham's Birthday Party

Today has been really hard for me. It was our sweet Grandboy “Tractor Man” Graham’s Birthday party and we had to miss it because I’m still stuck in the house sick. I"ve have been sick over three weeks and  finally think I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Yea!!! God has a way of showing us when we need to slow down and when we don’t, He will give us a reason to. I've missed 10 days of work and I have never missed 10 days of work in my life, unless I had kids or surgery!  I know Graham had lots of fun and got lots of neat things. Can’t wait to see the pictures. Hope you all enjoyed your Saturday and will be heading to your place of worship in the morning. Looks like I will miss church one more Sunday. Hope I will be back next week.
Blessings,
Lori

A note to Graham…   
Graham, It’s hard to believe that you are “2”. It seems like it was just yesterday that we were waiting for your arrival. You are such a sweet boy that loves his Pop and maybe Grams a little. We are so thankful that God has blessed our family with you.
Happy Birthday Graham,                          
We love you,                                                                
Pop and Grams

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Graham’s Birthday Shirt

I had lots of fun today finishing up my sweet grandboy Graham’s Birthday shirt. DSC03161
He will be 2 on Friday and we’re celebrating with the family on Saturday!! The shirt turned out way better that I thought it would. It is just precious just like him. It’s done on a brown tee with applique and embroidery. I used several different fabrics. Chenille, corduroy, fleece & cotton. I hope he will love it as much as I love him.                                                                         Blessings, Lori
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Sunday, February 20, 2011

Lacey’s Shower

Lacey is a special person in my life and has been for a long time. She and Jodi were in bed babies together at church years ago and they have been friends since they were old enough to know each other. I consider Lacey one of my other children. She has worked with me for 2.5 years and is a joy. She is due to have a sweet baby boy Harlin at the end of April.  So Jodi, Stefanie and I decided to host a little baby shower for her.

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It’s been kind of crazy getting it all together. I have been under the weather for two weeks and we live 45 minutes from anywhere to get craft things. Many people have been picking things up for us. Thanks to all of you!!! We had a wonderful time and she got lots of great baby things. Part of our decorations were a small clothes line with a cap, gown and burp cloth personalized and a banner made from blue and brown paper with my Cricut. I didn’t have any ribbon and forgot to ask someone to get me some so I had to use the twine. I do plan to get some cute ribbon to remake this so that she can include it in his room.  DSC03136                                                                        We played one game of put the diaper on the baby. It was so funny.DSC03143

 

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We had three groups, the funny thing was when we realized that the three sisters were the babies for this game. They were so cute.

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We also did a couple of other things. One being we had a package of newborn diapers and each person got a couple of them. They wrote something funny or sweet on the fronts of the diapers so during the first couple of weeks when it’s so hard being a new parent she will have something that will make her smile.

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I also made little tag cards and each person wrote their name and what gift they brought on the front and their address on the back. Makes it a little easier for thank you cards. Then Lacey will take those and put them in her scrapbook.

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These girls have known each other since grade school. Except for Morgan (on the right of Lacey, she is Lacey’s sister).DSC03128

 

 

 

 

From left to right: Heather Hinson Becker, Jodi Cheney, Kourtney Ely Langheld, Lacey Collier, Morgan Collier and Megan

We had some wonderful things to eat and drink. Lynn (my husband) made the most wonderful cupcakes, Stefanie made sausage balls, Jodi brought a fruit tray and we had orange juice/7up and snickeroo coffee.

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There were treats for every one to take home. Made with small Hershey's bars, strips of scrapbook paper cut to fit and tied on with tulle in colors that match. They were really cute. Lacey is going to take the leftovers to the hospital for a take home treat after your visit to see the baby.

Hope you enjoyed sharing this special day with us. Blessings, Lori

 

Friday, February 18, 2011

Happy Friday to everyone. I didn't make it to round 3 of American Crafters but there are some VERY talented ladies who have spent many hours on their crafts. Please go over and vote for your 3 favorite. I can promise you that they appreciate it.
http://naptimecrafters.blogspot.com/2011/02/american-crafter-round-3-projects.html

It was truly a blessing that I didn't make it to round 3 even though I was a little disappointed. I could have never made it through. I have been really sick and I'm hosting a baby shower at my home for Lacey, one of the best employees in the world. She is also very special to our family. She & my daughter, Jodi have been best friends since they were little bitty girls. I will share some pictures later this weekend.

Share some love with someone who isn't expecting it.
Blessings, Lori

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Happy Birthday to sweet Laura

 

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Today is my other daughter’s birthday. She is one of the sweetest people I know and I love her soooo much. She loves the Lord, is a wonderful wife to my son, Jeremy and the Best mother to my sweet grandboy, Graham. She is a SAHM which I believe is the hardest job in the world and she does an AWESOME job. I am blessed beyond measure and so thankful that God sent her to us.

God Bless you, Laura today and everyday,

Love you, Lori AKA”Grams”

Friday, February 11, 2011

Please Vote… American Crafters Round 2

This has been one long week. I have been sick all week actually I've missed work every day but Monday. I decided today that I couldn't get well by myself so I went to see the J P my favorite Nurse Practitioner, I love that lady. She is such a hoot, no matter how bad I feel she always makes me laugh. I have bronchitis, throat infection and sinus infection. Thank means I'm home for the weekend. 

So during this, I struggled to get my Round 2 project finished. I hope you like and will vote for me, and if you can't vote for me please go vote. I can promise you these ladies have worked really hard on these crafts.     

Snow Buddies Sweatshirt

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This sweatshirt was made with my grandboys in mind. It was made with sewing, hand applique, hand embroidery and machine embroidery. I used white minky dot for the snow and the snowman, white fleece for the word Snow, green corduroy for the tree as well as sweater and cotton fabrics. I had a blast making this and can’t wait to see the boys wearing it. Don’t you just love the snow angle?

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I hope you can see the detail and time I spent making this. I would love to move on to Round 3. Please click on the blog below and VOTE!!!!! Please

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Blessings, Lori

http://naptimecrafters.blogspot.com/2011/02/american-crafter-round-2-projects.html

Monday, February 7, 2011

I made it to Round 2..... Thanks for voting for me!!!!

American Crafters Round #2
I am so excited that I've made it to Round 2 of the American Crafters!!!! There were some Great ideas and I feel honored to be among this group. Now it's time to start coming up with something new for this round!!!
Thanks so much for those that voted for me and if you would like to have a car magnet for your Valentine, email me at itsybitsystitches@gmail.com.
Have a wonderful day.
Blessings,
Lori
http://naptimecrafters.blogspot.com/2011/02/american-crafter-round-2-let-it-snow.html

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Monday's Blog Hop Give-Away

Monday's Blog Hop Give-Away -"Whooo Loves Some Fun Scavenger Hunt" Activity. So here's how to play, you MUST be a follower. Pick one Blogger from my Blog List and visit their blog, if you like it follow them. Comment who you visited and you liked. Be sure to add your email to the comment. A winner will be chosen by random.org and you'll know by morning.Please Grab My Button!! Encourage your friends, bloggers and any one else to come play with us. Then click on the link below and come play with us over there.
<a  href="http://justmarriedwithcoupons.com"  target="_blank"><img alt="Just Married with Coupons"  src="http://img299.imageshack.us/img299/8962/giveawaybutton.jpg"  /></a>



Today's prizes 
“A Box of Love for Ozella,” by: Ceil Bridges was written to teach students about Love. Ozella learns to love her dog, Okie, by treating him the way she wants to be treated. The students see the transformation and the rewards that being a friend brings to your life. You can check out her other books on her website http://ceilbridges.com.
I will be giving away " The Best Birthday Ever" book next week.
And
        a of diaper cover/panties with name in the color of your choice and matching bows from Itsy Bitsy Stitches by Story's.

The first number will receive the book and the second will receive the panties. I have some wonderful items still to be given away. Come back each day to see what were doing. 
Blessings, Lori






American Crafters Round 1 “Valentine's Day CAR MAGNET”

 “Valentine's Day CAR MAGNET”
I am SUPER EXCITED to be Crafting with all these Fabulous Ladies.
Originally I had another idea for my Round 1 craft, but I think that this indeed is the Greatest Valentine’s Day gift. It is made using magnetic roll material (for signs, can be purchased at most signs shops), vinyl and lots of love. I came up with what I wanted to put on it, searched the internet for clip art, and cut it out then attached it to the magnets.  The vinyl can be cut with a Cricut or Silhouette.  I plan on using these for Valentine’s Day gifts for my friends & family.  When they least expect it, a wonderful surprise with a personal message will be awaiting your Special Valentine.  I hope you enjoy this craft as much as I have.
Please head over to naptime crafters, link below and vote for me if you feel I'm deserving and if you can't vote for me please vote for those you love.
Blessings, 


Lori

http://naptimecrafters.blogspot.com/2011/02/american-crafter-round-1-projects.html

Friday, February 4, 2011

Finger Print Friday & What I love today...

Friday's are one of my favorite Blog Linkys with Finger Print Friday over at The Rusted Chain http://www.blog.therustedchain.com/ and I'm also participating with What I love today over at cinnamon*sticks designs http://cinnamonsticksboutique.blogspot.com/ and today they are both the same thing so I got to have one post.
                 I LOVE THE SNOW!!!!!!!

 It snowed most of the day today and I was so happy. They have been talking about it for a few days but I never really believe it till I see it. Well when I got up this morning, there it was!!! It was snowing but just a little. It kept getting bigger & bigger!!!!
So I've been in all day today hanging out in my pj's, drinking coffee, playing on the computer all while watching the most beautiful fire.
Guess you could call me lazy.
This picture was taken looking out in the yard while standing on the front porch.

Can you see the Finger Prints of God? I certainly can. Snowflakes are the most beautiful things and each are very unique, just like us. God made all of different.


Looking into the back yard!

My view from the couch!!!


Come share with us your Finger Print Friday and What I love today...
Blessings, Lori

American Crafters Round 1 Voting has begun.......

Sorry I was away yesterday from the give away. I was in a crisis with my craft for the American Crafters Round 1 craft. I had this wonderful idea that I just couldn't get to work out. I had been up all night the night before and had to have it in by 11:00 AM. So I had to regroup and try to come up with something else and boy did I. The crafts are in and need to be voted on. Please, Please, Please go vote, and if you can't vote for me vote anyway.
The theme was Valentine's Day which is February 14th and my Birthday. "Love Magnet" is #14,
http://naptimecrafters.blogspot.com/2011/02/american-crafter-round-1-projects.html

Can't wait till Monday to see who moves on!!!!
Please go over and vote!
Blessings, Lori

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Here's what I love today... What do you love today?

This is my precious husband, Lynn , who is always making us laugh. He even laughs at himself. He has been so sweet to me the last few days. I have been working on my craft for Round 1 of American Crafters. Needless to say I have been a mess!!!!! He's been so helpful and encouraging and today when I couldn't get my pictures to load for my entry he was trying to help me. Now this wonderful man doesn't know one thing about computers. How sweet is that!!!!!! He takes really good care of me, our family and our aging parents!!!
Just wanted you all to know how much I love him.
Blessings,
Lori

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Whoos Blog Hopping Today...

ME!!!
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Tera over at Give it to me Tara is having a Mid Week Blog. Come on and join us!!!
Hoping you Scavenger Hunting with us.
Blessings, Lori

Whooo Whooo Day Two

Whooo Whee to Day Three


WHOOO LOVES SOME FUN, SCAVENGER HUNT Activity. So here's how to play, you MUST be a follower. Pick one Blogger from my Blog List & visit their blog, if you like it follow them. Comment who you visited. Be sure to add your email to the comment. A winner will be chosen by random.org and you'll know by morning.Please Grab My Button!! Encourage your friends, bloggers and any one else to come play with us.
We are having Whooo much  fun with the Scavenger Hunt. Please encourage all your blog buddies to come play and grab my button!

Submitting my Craft to American Carfters Round One competition today. Wish me luck.
Blessings,
Lori

Aimee & Stefanie are the winners for Day Two!!! Congratulations ladies! I have something special for both of you.



And the winner is...
Sandi over at like Christmas every single day  
Congrats Sandi,  you are the winner of these precious picture blocks from Melissa over at My House is Vanilla. http://myhouseisvanilla.blogspot.com/ She is a precious lady who is organizing The Great Create Craft Swap. If you would like to participate in the March Craft just let us know and we will get you the information. 
I will be sharing more about her later in the Hunt!!!




My Featured Blogger for day one was Beki over at The Rusted Chain. I'm not really sure how I found her but I am truly blessed by each of her blogs. She is a wonderful person.... I mean a real person with all the same things the rest of us feel. My favorite thing on her blog, besides her wonderful jewelery is Finger Print Friday. Please head over to her page and share your special Finger Print with us.
Thank you Beki for all you do.

Thanks to you special ladies that played. I will also be sending you something special. As you can see I'm new to all this and have much to learn. The format should be a little more user friendly today.
Day 2 is on it's way.... encourage everyone to join us!!!!


Blessings, Lori

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