Mom 2 Mom

This past weekend I went to my very first Mom 2 Mom sale with my mom and dad. I didn't really know what to expect other than from what other people told me. All I knew was that I needed some new stuff for Brayden and I was told that this was how to do it. We showed up a little early and waited out in the cold for nearly 25 minutes. We had some family there to chat with, so that made the time go a little faster. Once the doors opened, it was a mad dash, free for all. You had to know what you wanted and go to get it. This wasn't a place to stand around deciding. Talk about overwhelming!! There were people everywhere! You could hardly get down the aisles! But I will tell you what...this is the way to go! It is like a huge garage sale all under one roof. You don't have to drive around house to house hoping that they will have kids stuff. I got so much stuff for Brayden! Toys, shoes, clothes...it was unbelivable how much stuff I got for the price! Brayden made out like a badit, thanks to his Nana and Papa too! Would I do it again??? Absolutely!!!

Brayden playing in the car that Papa bought for him.

Trying on his goggles from his new tool bench.

Hmm....what I can put in the trunk?

Honk, honk....outta my way!

All set to go....with all my tools!

18 Months and Counting...

Today my little boy is 18 months old....a whole year and a half. I know everyone says this, but where has the time gone? It has been the most amazing year and a half. So many ups and even some downs, but all in all, it has been life changing. This little boy has changed the way I see the world. I love his excitement and wide-eyed wonder at things I used to never take the time to see. I love the faces he makes, the laughter...I love the way he makes me so anxious to get home after work to spend time with him. He is growing up way to fast. I want to savor every hug, every smile, every time he falls asleep in my arms...because I know before too long he will be too busy to play with his toys with his mommy or too grown up to give me a hug. I just pray that he always knows how much his mommy and daddy love him and that he will always have our hearts.

CHEESE!

Being silly! Two paci's at one time!!

Barothy Lodge

Two weekends ago, we went here:

It was Sean's grandma's 80th birthday and she wanted the whole family together. So they found a great lodge up in Northern Michigan. The ride up was a little treacherous, as it was snowing like crazy, but we made it safely...after 6 hours of driving. Brayden did amazing the whole weekend. He loved playing with his cousins, loved being outside, and loved having a lot of attention! We had so much fun and the weekend went by very fast! Here are a few pictures from the weekend!

The three kiddos eating dinner.

Sean trying to stay on the sled!

Brayden and Daddy.

Brayden on the sled. He didn't stay there long. Turns out he is not one for sledding!

Gretchen and Brayden watching the ducks.

Gretchen, Nora, and Brayden on our walk. How cute are they?!?!

Brayden playing pool. I think he has the hang of it! :)

When's breakfast??

Brayden and Grandma.

Brayden, Me, Sara and Gretchen watching everyone sledding.

And she is off...

After months and months of planning, training and prayers, my little sister left today for a week long missions trip to Tamil Nadu, India. Her and 29 other brave souls set out this afternoon to be a light to the poorest of poor in India. They are bringing shoes, clothes, and school supplies as well as hope and love to these people. I am so proud of my sister for making this decision to be a light and friend to the Indian people, who have been classified as the "untouchables." I pray that she has an amazing experience and a safe trip. These next ten days are going to be very long for me and my family! We know she is doing amazing things, but can't wait until she is back here with us!

Erin with her team leader Sarah (aka...best friend)

Some of the luggage going with them. These bags are filled with 798 pairs of Crocs shoes, 57 backpacks filled with school supplies, and clothing for the people of Tamil Nadu.

Erin and Sarah standing with their gear, getting direction from the main team leader.

The whole India team!

Their ride to the Chicago airport.

Meijer Super Deals!!

Once again, I got some amazing deals at Meijer. I love when they have super deals paired with super coupons! I get so excited! Like a little kid in a candy shop. I just had to share my good deals!!

Total Cost: $103.92

Total Savings: $86.39

Total Out of Pocket: $17.53

Yay!!!

P.S. Yes, that is my son eating McDonald's in the background....It was a busy day! :)