The McDowell Family Journal

A Day On The Ranch (August 7, 2010)

2011-06-27T17:44:00.000-07:00

Catching Up! 4th of July 2010

2011-06-27T17:10:00.000-07:00

Wowzas! It sure has been a long long time! After taking a years sabbatical I have a lot of catching up to do. Much has happened in a years time and with our newest addition Charles Jude McDowell arriving in less than 3 months I better get to it.

Last 4th of July we spent the day in Atlanta doing things All American. Our 1st stop was the American Girl Store and then off to the ball park for a Braves game. That day was such a blast; I would love to do the exact thing this year!

Goodbye My Sweet Home

2010-07-29T17:34:00.000-07:00

For years I could not wait until we moved from this house. When we bought this house it was perfect for just me and Richie, but soon became way too cramped for our growing family. With two cats, a dog and a toddler running around the walls felt as if they were closing in!

What were we complaining about? That was the most perfect house ever! Minus the train outside our backdoor of course. The images of the day we moved in and the day we brought Caroline home from the hospital flash in my mind. I miss that house and apparently so does Caroline. She likes to tell me at least once a week that she misses her old house and wants to go back. I have to say I am a bit home sick too. I wonder if the doctor has a medication for my sickness?

The thing I miss most about our sweet old home is actually not a thing, but a person. Christian was our neighbor across the street. I think about him every day and I am just heart broken he is not just a street away. I love and miss him dearly! Everyone loves and misses him very very much!!!!

Saying Goodbye To The Baby Furniture

2010-07-29T17:13:00.000-07:00

Wow!!!! Have you guys missed me? It has been a wild three months. Where in the world do I begin and how can a catch up on all my posts? I have my work cut out for me that is for sure.

So this post really saddens me. To be honest I had completely forgotten about this picture until I started flipping through the countless pictures we have taken in the past three months. I don't know whether to boo hoo or kick myself for selling the baby furniture. Oh well..Whats done is done. We had a great three year run and I will miss you dearly.

New Addition

2010-05-12T20:09:00.001-07:00

Our new addition to Caroline's room is here! Hope you like your new home. Don't worry little chair; it will start looking a whole lot better in that room soon. Covered head board and custom bedding will be home soon to keep you company. I will be picking up your new friend "bedside table" Friday at the Greyhound station.

Pray For Sweet Molly!!!!

2010-04-23T19:45:00.001-07:00

Please keep sweet Molly in your prayers. Molly's previous mommy neglected this sweet angel for years. Poor Molly lost her leg many years ago and was left to suffer, limp and live life as a gimp. Finally after years of neglect she was adopted by a new mommy and was immediately admitted into the American Doll Hospital. As we speak Molly is undergoing a procedure that will help her to be a little girl again. She will no longer be ridiculed and live in shame. This shows that miracles do come true and good is really out there. Maury, the love you are showing Molly is unconditional. You should have a street or holiday named after you!!! Hope you two are very happy with each other.

Mental Note

2010-04-19T10:01:00.000-07:00

(Note to Easter Bunny/self)

Mr. Easter Bunny,

Although your gift was very generous this year please please please stick to the two item list next year! Also, sorry to say Dunkin Doughnut Munchkins will not be on your Easter Bunny plate next year. I am sure it put some jiggle in your belly as you hopped to the next house.

Bring Me Jellysbeans & Bubblegum Easter Bunny

2010-04-19T09:52:00.001-07:00

Since we were at the beach and carrots were not on hand Dunkin Doughnuts had to do. What Bunny wouldn't want Dunkin Dougnut munchkins over boring old carrots? Caroline did sneak a few to ensure the Easter Bunny would not be poisoned. When I asked Caroline what she wanted the Easter Bunny to bring her she would say "jellybeans and bubblegum."

If only the Easter Bunny had stuck to that list he wouldn't have been so broke afterwards!

Update

2010-04-19T09:29:00.000-07:00

Ok, Ok I know it has been over 2 weeks since Easter, but my plate is very full right now. In the middle of a move and packing is no fun! Even though there is tons to do; life around us does not slow down for us to catch up. With Birthday parties, soccer games and every thing else we are overloaded! We close on our house Friday and still where we will end up is up in the air. Talk about some nail biting going on over here. We should have a better idea by mid week, so keep checking back with us.

Caroline must be bored with all this moving stuff because last week she was stirring up lots of excitement of her own. Poison Control was called after Caroline decided to polish her eyes shut with ice blue nail polish and spraying daddy's cologne in her eyes. Then later that week she took a spill off the escalator in Belk. Caroline keeps us on our toes at all times. One day she goes from our sweet little pink princess to a jumping pirate that squints her eyes and growls "ARRRRRGH!!!!!!!!!!!

Me & My "B"

2010-04-12T07:36:00.000-07:00

The whole family headed down to the beach for the Easter Holiday and we had such a wonderful time! We really did not want to come home and really thought about staying forever. Carolines favorite part of her vacation was probably her cousin Brinley or "B" as she likes to call him. The wrestled and played the whole time. We miss him so much and cant wait to see him again very very soon.

Princess and That Stinkin Frog!!!

2010-04-11T15:28:00.000-07:00

We watch the movie at least 3 times a day and every night she has to have Princess and The Frog read to her. The whole family knows every word to the whole sound track!! We are so scary!!!

1st Practice

2010-04-08T17:42:00.000-07:00

Getting Ready For The Big Day!

2010-04-01T19:27:00.000-07:00

First Sign Of Sun!!!

2010-04-01T19:21:00.001-07:00

2010-04-01T19:10:00.000-07:00

Tuscaloosa Barnyard

2010-04-01T18:38:00.001-07:00

Poor little bunny foo foo it was terrified!

Look at that itty bitty lamb!!! Sweet baby!

Bambi the baby pig

Give me some of that! I like popsicles too!

This is a must place to visit if you live around here. We had such a great time at the Tuscaloosa Barnyard with all our animal friends. Caroline got to feed all the babies and probably rode the pony 56 times. She asks to go to the "farm" almost every day. We will have to make it back real soon.

My Makeup Artist

2010-03-28T19:57:00.000-07:00

Selling Some Monogramming Inventory

2010-03-25T15:29:00.001-07:00

Hey you guys I am selling a lot of my monogramming inventory at a discounted price! I have tons and tons of stuff! I have lots of items from the brand Monag. Girls, boys, babies I have got it all!!! I have short sleeve/long sleeve ruffle girls shirts in all sorts of colors and sizes. I have girls lettuce edge and plain edge. I have girl ruffle pants in all sorts of colors and sizes. Boys is about the same. For babies I have onsies and baby gowns in plain and white with pink and blue stitching.

Also, I am looking to sell my Viking serger I just bought a couple months ago. I used it once! I I may even sell my Janome sewing and monogramming machine.

Email me if you are interested. www.cydneysmcdowell@yahoo.com

Its All About Minnie

2010-03-24T14:49:00.001-07:00

Can you believe Caroline's birthday party is right around the corner? Where did this year go? As you can see it is all about Minnie Mouse this year! Since we will be in Disney for her actual birthday we will carry on the theme for her party which will be the following week. Mary did such a fabulous job! Check her out @ http://razzledazzledesign.blogspot.com/. She whipped these invites up in a day! Thanks Mary!

Spencer Morgan Designs

2010-03-19T15:36:00.001-07:00

So this is my new obsession! I found this jewelry designer and I am ready to buy her whole inventory!!! The designer of these beautiful creations is Rebecca. She is so pleasant to deal with and I am not exaggerating you have your jewelry in the mail the next day!!!! These are two items I purchased just this week. I can't even believe how much these pieces were! I just received my Starfish necklace today and I don't want to take it off. My whole spring wardrobe will be planned around this one necklace!

CHECK HER OUT: http://www.spencermorgandesigns.com/

and this is her blog: http://spencermorgandesigns.blogspot.com/

2010-03-18T18:34:00.000-07:00

So since we have sold our house and we are moving soon I have been browsing new home stuff. I don't need this china set but I sure do want it. It is the Harlequin Polka Dot Collection from the wonderful china company Wedgwood of England. I have a few more items on my list that come before this like the Wedgwood White Bone China.

Can't help but think of all the great tea parties Caroline and I can have with this Harlequin Collection.

BTW... I have alot of Wedgwood waiting to be passed down to me. I can't wait!

Oh It Has Been Way Way Too Long

2010-03-12T17:57:00.000-08:00

Ok, So I am a bit embarrased to even post these pictures! They are almost a month old! I have been way too busy, lazy and tired to post these days. I am watching Super Nanny and thought it would be a great time to update the blog!

SPRING BREAK MARKDOWNS!

2010-03-12T06:38:00.000-08:00

Spring Break is here and we have some items that are marked down. The items will be on sale until Sunday the 21st. This includes the Easter items that are left!

Smitten & Co

2010-02-15T12:30:00.001-08:00

While I was browsing through a an old friend of Richie's Facebook pictures I saw these cute little shirts her daughter was wearing. A good friend of hers makes these adorable shirts. I am planning on getting a lot for Caroline for her upcoming Soccer season. Check the Esty site out!!!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/smittenandcompany/

Birdie's Big Girl Shoes

2010-02-14T11:15:00.000-08:00

What a cute book! A great book for a future fashionista!

A Night At The Big Top

2010-02-11T05:48:00.001-08:00

Well, the circus was definitely an experience. I think we will for sure do the circus again, but maybe we will skip next year. It was hard to keep Carolines attention. She just wasn't into the half man half woman or the wild man in the cage, go figure. We actually had to leave during intermission. I hear the best part is the second half. I know she would have loved it with all the animals she loves, but she just couldn't hang in there. Maybe in 2 years!

Sun & Sand Heart Sandle!

2010-01-29T12:47:00.000-08:00

OK, so I just saw that Sun and Sand will have a metallic in their heart sandle this year. It will be a champagne gold color. How exciting is this? Love it!

Cheese Puffs

2010-01-29T10:42:00.000-08:00

Doing what she loves best. Eating Cheese Puffs!!!!!

Little Ice Princess

2010-01-29T10:23:00.000-08:00

Yep, we went ice skating. I have to say that Caroline is always up for any thing. She always wants to have fun as well as others.

Cutest Valentine's Goodies

2010-01-21T21:43:00.000-08:00

Look at the most adorable owl Valentine party bags Caroline will giving her little friends!! I just love Renee's creativeness at Baby Face Designs. Now I just have to think of something cute to fill them will. BTW....these are not the exact bags for Caroline., so don't worry we did not change her name to Kate Mathison!

Check out Renee's Blog: http://babyfacedesign.blogspot.com/

If you decide to order from her let her know Cydney sent you!!!

AHAHAHAH!!!!!! 1-2-3 Jello!!!!!

2010-01-20T18:14:00.000-08:00

Not but two second later did I find it!!!!!! January 20th 2010 just could be one of the happiest days of my life! I really could cry. You think I am exaggerating, but I am not! I use to eat this all the time and it brings me back to good times. I am very nostalgic!

3/4 cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water with enough ice cubes added to equal 1 1/4 cups
1/2 cup whipped cream
3 oz package any flavor Jell-O

Directions:In a blender, mix together the gelatin and the boiling water. Add the ice cube/water mixture and mix until the ice cubes are melted. Mix in the whipped cream for 30 seconds. Pour into dessert glasses. Refrigerate 30 minutes. Serve

2010-01-20T18:02:00.000-08:00

Who remembers these? Did you guys love these as much as I did growing up? I use to eat about 4 or 5 at each sitting. How could they take these away from us? Well y'all I found a recipe for them. I have not made these, but so help me God I will this weekend!!!!! Now, I have to find 1-2-3 Jello! Do you guys remember that bite of heaven? Seriously Jello and Bill Crosby what the heck is wrong with you? Why did you take these two joys a way from me? Please let me know if you have a substitute recipe for 1-2-3!!!

2 cups Cold Milk

1 pkg. (4 serving size) JELL-O Chocolate Flavor Instant Pudding and Pie Filling

1 cup Cool Whip

5 (5-oz) Paper or Plastic Cups

5 Popsicle sticks

Pour milk into a medium bowl. Add dry pudding mix. Beat with a wire whisk 2 minutes. Stir in cool whip until blended.Spoon evenly into 5 (5-oz) paper or plastic cups. Insert a wooden popsicle stick into the center of each cup for the handles. Place cups in a 8X8 pan, cover with plastic wrap and freeze 5 hours or until firm. To remove pops from cups, place bottoms of cups under warm running water for about 15 seconds. Press firmly on bottoms of cups to release pops. (Do not twist or pull popsicle sticks.) Store leftover pops in freezer.

Princess & A Frog Cookies

2010-01-18T13:38:00.001-08:00

Oh my gosh look at these adorable cookies I found this weekend!!! I am still on the fence about Carolines birthday party. I am not sure she will have one this year, since we will be in Disney for her birthday. I still feel a bit guilty, so we may have a small get together. I love these cookies and may have to make them, or better yet get someone else to make them!

Santa Brought Skates!

2010-01-07T20:29:00.001-08:00

She did not know what to think when she came down those stairs at Cookie's and Poppy's house and saw all those toys! She went straight for the skates! Her favorite's that day was the scooter and the fish game. She also got Handy Manny's work bench and plays with it all the time! Its nice to know if I ever need anything fixed around the house; Caroline will have the equipment.

Cookies for Santa

2010-01-07T20:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Jesus Party!

2010-01-04T18:52:00.000-08:00

Santa Please Bring Me Some Skates

2010-01-04T18:36:00.001-08:00

If you did not visit the Santa at Bass Pro this year; you have got to do it next year! Although we waited an hour it seemed like 20 minutes. They have it all figured out there at Bass Pro. They have tons of activities for the children, popcorn, ice cream, candy and not to mention the huge fish tank.

Yes, I was the mom who had to wrestle my child to the ground as she ran the other way when it was our time to walk down the isle to sit on Santa lap. I had been prepping this child for over a month, so a scene was not made. A lot of good that prepping did. She squealed and squirmed, but as soon as Santa asked what she wanted for him to bring her it was like a switch. She calmly said "some pink skates." After that you couldn't get her to stop gabbing, but Santa was so sweet and patient. When asked about what she asked Santa to bring her for Christmas she would say "he was such a nice man. He gave me a candy cane and he is going to bring me pink skates."

School Christmas Party

2010-01-04T18:19:00.001-08:00

What a fun day! I had a blast and even though Caroline looks miserable in most of the pictures; I can assure you that she had a great time as well.

Caroline's Snowman Soup & Rudolph Cupcakes

2010-01-04T18:06:00.000-08:00

We spent the night before Caroline's Christmas party at school making delicious treats for her sweet friends at school. The Rudolph cupcakes were a big hit with all the kids for sure. Not sure what the kids and their moms thought of the Snowman Soup, but I thought they were precious! It was a small and inexpensive treat. I think we will make those again next year for her classmates. All it includes is: a package of hot chocolate, marshmallows, Hershey kisses, some candy canes and a sweet little poem to tell you how to make it. BTW... you have got to try the Rudolph cupcakes as well. I ate about 7 the same night I made them!

Happy Birthday LeLe!

2009-12-28T19:57:00.000-08:00

2009-12-28T19:36:00.000-08:00

3 Princess's & A Frog

2009-12-28T12:36:00.000-08:00

Sunday School Birthday Party for Jesus

2009-12-25T12:09:00.001-08:00

Zoo Lights

2009-12-25T11:44:00.000-08:00

Burr.... It was so cold that night. We went a few weeks ago and it was so very cold and was drizzling the whole night. It was not a very good idea considering Caroline was still sick. Even though she was sick she still was as happy as could be! We had such a great night despite the damp freezing weather.

2009-12-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

This was our big shopping adventure. After all the hustle and bustle we stopped for a

reindeer ride. Poor Caroline was sick as a dog.

The Polar Express

2009-12-20T12:36:00.000-08:00

Blowing kisses as Santa left

This picture cracks me up! She was so terrified!

She wasn't too sure about the elf either

Waving to Santa and Mrs Claus as we left the North Pole

Shoving M&M's in her mouth

Waiting to board the train. Oh it was so cold.

Not sure

Two weeks ago we took Caroline to ride the Polar Express. Richie was suppose to come with us, but Mom had to step in last second. It was so so cold that night! Next year Caroline will definitely have to wear some fleece PJ's. We had a very very good time and will have to make the Polar Express a Christmas tradition.

I do hope that next year she will take her picture with Santa. I gave her a whole bag of M&M's thinking she would get so hyped up on chocolate that she wouldn't even notice Santa standing next to her. Well, that wasn't the case she was sot going to have any of him. Mrs. Santa did manage to sit next to her long enough so I could snap a picture. As soon as Santa left Caroline was whining his name and blowing him kisses. She waved to Mr and Mrs Claus as we left the North Pole. It was sad to leave the Clauses, but we had chocolate milk and cookies to fill the void.

New Additions to Spring 2010 Preview

2009-12-10T19:53:00.000-08:00

I added some more items. Remember there is lots more to come! A lot of stuff was not pictured.

Spring 2010 Preview

2009-12-10T11:40:00.000-08:00

As you guys may know my mother and I launching our new store Sweet Carolines this Spring. The website should be up and running soon and our shop's door should be ready to open after the new year. The store will be located in Huntsville, but you will be able to order everything we carry online. We will also offer layaway. Here is a sneak peak at some of the items we have ordered. A lot of the items are not pictured, so keep checking back. Let me know if you are interested in preordering. We will be starting our preorder after the first of the year

.Here is how you get to the gallery:http://www.kodakgallery.com/gallery/welcome.jsp

Log in as : sweetcarolineboutique@gmail.com
Password: spring10

Let It Snow

2009-12-07T20:44:00.000-08:00

Reindeer Food

2009-12-07T20:21:00.000-08:00

Caroline was looking forward all week to make reindeer food, so when she woke up from her nap one day we got busy to work. We will definitely make this at least one more time before Santa comes. His reindeer will need a little snack for the long ride ahead of him that night!

Magic Elf and Letter to Santa

2009-12-07T17:02:00.001-08:00

Last week Caroline wrote a letter to Santa Claus. When I ask her what she wants Santa to bring her for Christmas she says...."ummm toys." She has now added skates and a boy baby to the list. I took her picture by the Christmas tree holding her letter and while she was posing she decided to give the Santa ornament a kiss. It was too sweet. We also introduced our Magic Elf Colby and reindeer Jack. Colby is an elf who causes mischief when everyone is as sleep. You have to feed them every night water and crackers and you have to sprinkle snow on them before you go to bed if you want them to come alive!

2009-12-07T16:49:00.000-08:00

2009-11-27T18:25:00.000-08:00

Yogurt Mountain

2009-11-27T18:10:00.001-08:00

For all you who live in the Birmingham area you have got to stop by Yogurt Mountain! We brought the kids and before we left we all had a sugar high. Please excuse Carolines outfit

we are potty training and she was too excited and had a little accident! That outfit is her accident outfit.

2009-11-27T17:43:00.000-08:00

2009-11-27T17:22:00.000-08:00

GiGi's Cupcakes

2009-11-26T19:04:00.000-08:00

At The "Play Park" With Poppy

2009-11-26T18:38:00.000-08:00

Turkey Cookies

2009-11-26T13:32:00.000-08:00

Caroline got such a kick out of helping me make these turkey cookies to bring to her class. She was so proud of those cookies. They were precious!

Thanksgiving Feast

2009-11-26T11:59:00.000-08:00

Caroline and Her Best Man

2009-11-26T11:52:00.000-08:00

My Artist To Be

2009-11-26T11:37:00.000-08:00

Fun With The Girls

2009-11-25T19:52:00.001-08:00

Caroline adores her cousins and she has been spending almost every weekend with them and is just loving every second. We make a pile of leaves every time and let them at it. Ashley is missing from the picture, but she is the other girl cousin.

2009-11-11T15:21:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

The Most Wonderful Thing!

2009-11-09T12:27:00.000-08:00

This weekend we visited with Richie and his family in Sylacauga. We had such a wonderful time with all the family and grand kids. Caroline was on cloud 9. She had been talking about it all week. She loves her cousins! They ate sweets, watched movies and jumped in a huge pie of leaves. We have such great pictures and I will post them a bit later.

My sister-in-law introduced me to the most wonderful, delicious and spectacular thing this weekend. Batter Blaster! Pancake batter in a spray can. A spray can like a whip cream can. Have you heard of anything better? I am not exaggerating, but I am telling you these are the best pancakes I have had in a very very long time!! And best of all.....they are Organic. You know I love any thing and every thing organic. Take a try and you guys will never buy the other.

Ooh Spooky

2009-11-03T13:23:00.000-08:00

So for all those you don't know the story; here it is.... For months now Caroline was going to be Tinker Bell. I had her costume custom made, but never received it. Thursday night I realized "this costume is never going to come," so I had to go out and frantically find something. Caroline is in love with her Disney princesses, so she wanted to be Cinderella. I ran to Target picked her dress up and found a crown and tiara there as well. We ran to the Disney store and picked up the most important part..the glass slippers. Oh how she loves those sweet little shoes. They light up as she walks and every thing!

We went to the Passerellas annual Halloween Bash and tricked enough treats to keep our sweet tooth's satisfied until next year. I cant wait till Christmas!!! Just around the corner!

Halloween Party at Build A Bear

2009-10-30T11:59:00.001-07:00

Sorry I didnt get to many pictures that day, but the kids were crazy with excitement! We had so much fun that day! Caroline picked the scruffy puppy and dressed her up as Tinker Bell. We named her Scruffy Bell and she sleeps with Caroline every night.

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-30T11:24:00.001-07:00

Caroline's School Open House

2009-10-30T11:01:00.000-07:00

Sweet Carolines The Store!

2009-10-17T17:48:00.000-07:00

OK, so the store is coming along great. For all those who do not know; my mom is opening a children's store in Huntsville Alabama. The store will be opening in January/February. We will also have a website that will feature all of our items. The store will be offering Lay-a-Way with 25% down and 2 months to pay.

I will be posting a album of all of our merchandise we have bought so far at Market. I will also post a detail description of every item that will explain sizing, style differences, and different colors the item comes in. We will be pre orders. Just let me know what you may be interested in and I can order extras or different sizes if we did not get it. Remember each style comes in a group and if we don't see something you may like then maybe we can get it!

Also, if you do not see a brand you like or would like us to carry just let us know and we will look into it!We will carry smocked lines, monogrammable items and so much more. Lines like: Little English, Anavini, Claire & Charlie, Zuccini, Petite Frere, Silly Goose, Vive La Fete, Secret Wishes, Bee Have, Be Mine, Remember Nguyen, Luigi, Amanda Remembered and so so much more. My brain is mush, so I cant remember them all! I want to Carry Mela Wilson too but later. I guess if you were interested I could always do it for this Spring. You could always do layaway because I know it is so so expensive, but if you had 2 months to pay it off it wouldn't be too bad. I am checking to see who may be interested b/c the min order is a lot and I don't want to order if no one is interested b/c of price.

Check the blog soon for the photo gallery!I am so excited and hope lots of you will be our future costumers.Also if you guys do not see something that you were looking for like frogs or more birthday just let me know.

Also you guys I will warn you that I didnt know order many boy things b/c I am not sure what our market is at this time. I know husbands can be a pain and dont want their boys dressing a certain way. If you would like brother/sister outfits let me know most items do have boy versions. E-mail me you guys with boys and let me know what you want!!!! Please I need help with that!

Carousel

2009-10-11T14:41:00.000-07:00

Princess & The Potty

2009-10-05T13:06:00.000-07:00

So I can say that Caroline is just about potty trained. It has been a rough road, but we are almost there. I really didn't think Caroline would catch on so quickly but she had done such a wonderful job. Caroline wears pull ups most of the time, but on a few occasions we have worn big girl undies out on the town. I am still not ready to send her to school in her big girl panties, but I think that will come soon. Even when she wears her pull ups and in bed she will tell me that she needs to go. I am not ready to tackle public potties yet! I will have to stock up on Lysol first.

A Few More Random

2009-10-05T12:20:00.000-07:00

Random Pictures

2009-10-05T12:09:00.000-07:00

Caroline and her colors.

Daddy and Caroline at My Birthday Dinner and Caroline favorite toy at every resteraunt! It drives me crazy!

Caroline is obsessed with bugs! My little tom boy thinks everything is a bug even crumbs!

A Few New Additions To Caroline's Future Room

2009-09-23T16:50:00.001-07:00

So, I was shopping through Homewood a few weeks ago and came across these bedside tables I just could not stop thinking about. The were a bit pricey, so I knew I had to think about it. I called the store to see if they were still there and the owner said they only had one left. Well that was all I needed, so when I went in the next day, gone! What! How could the perfect bedside table be gone? I was determined to find it,s o went straight home and did some digging and finally found it. I know all the mirrors will be a pain to keep streak free, but I am willing to Windex that thing every day. I also found this gorgeous crystal lamp and had to snag that one up. Caroline's bed will be a covered full headboard and hopefully is she has a sister we will get two twin beds. When I was younger I always wanted two twin beds, because its just so chic.

Gold Crib

2009-09-23T16:35:00.001-07:00

So we have been thinking and planning on having another child hopefully very soon. I like Caroline's room, but to tell the truth it is not very me! I was not in the right state of mind when I decorated her room when I was pregnant. I was too busy working and moving into a new home. Well, I my thoughts are much clearer these days and think the next babies room will be just precious. Like I said before I like Carolines old things, but I am ready for a few changes. We will keep some, change a few and maybe get some new things. I know that I want a gold crib, yes I said gold. I saw a picture of it and about fell out with excitement. My parents have a Jenny Lynn crib and their house and I have a dark sleigh crib, so I think I will switch them out and paint the Jenny Lynn crib gold. The paint color is from Ralph Lauren and it is called "Golden Candlesticks." Is the crib above just Davine, or what? I think that is the same crib my parents have, so it will work out perfectly. I think the gold crib will be adorable for either a boy or girl.

Cute Cake Toppers

2009-09-14T14:49:00.000-07:00

OK, so I saw these little cake toppers and thought they were so cute!!! I love this little shop on Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5174676. You can customize any of them! I just love them and had to share them

Disney Princess Cakes

2009-09-10T17:15:00.000-07:00

Can you believe I am already thinking of Carolines 3rd birthday? This year will be a princess themed tea party with all her prince and princess friends. I saw this on a blog I was flipping through and thought they were cute. They won't be the cake I do for Caroline, but I do think it will be a doll cake. I had one when I was a little girl and never forgot it.

Ooh La La Chocolate Crescent Rolls

2009-09-10T17:02:00.000-07:00

When I was younger my dad use to make this delicious morning treat for us a lot and we never got tired of them. They are chocolate filled crescent rolls made simply of Pillsbury crescent rolls and filled with chocolate morsels. Try them!! They are so wonderful! And easy!

Couple of Cute Pictures

2009-09-09T19:12:00.000-07:00

Caroline has found a new love....her pink furry boots. Although we only wear these boots in the house she wants to wear them every where. She has even wore them to bed every night, since she got them. I went to turn her lamp off tonight...she likes to read in her bed before she goes to bed... and she kept saying boots boots. I thought she was talking about her stuffed animal boots the monkey, but oh no it was those pink furry boots.

Day Two Of School

2009-09-09T18:57:00.000-07:00

Big Girls Go To School

2009-09-09T17:54:00.000-07:00

Oh how I was dreading the first day of school. I kept saying "Caroline, big girls go to school" and " we're going to have fun and we are not going to cry." She kept saying "no school, I don't like school." My stomach was in knots on our drive that morning. I figured we would skip the carpool line and that I would walk her in. I knew that once we got in there and she saw her friends she would just love it. We walked in the class room and there were a little moans and a little whining, but she went straight to the baby dolls and stroller and she was fine. She was such a big girl. She says she loves school and her teacher and can't wait to go back. Well, it has been a week and she has already caught a bug. I just love the school though. Her teacher is wonderful and the curriculum is terrific. They have music class with a different teacher and a PE teacher. They learn a different letter, shape and color every other week and they do about 3 art projects a day. I could not ask for any better!

Caroline is very into surprises these days and she asks for one every day after school. The first day we went to her favorite place to dine, Chik-fila and picked up an ice cream cone.

M&M's Melt In Your Mouth, Not In Your Hand

2009-09-01T16:50:00.000-07:00

Ok, Ok, so I have been posting several recipes lately and not so many pictures. We got a new camera and I am still figuring it out. So pictures will some soon. When I was younger I use to have this sandwich and it was such a treat. I did not have it often, but when I did it was like I had gone to heaven. When I tell you what is in this sandwich you will think "I am never going to give my child this!" You don't have to give it to them often, but they will think it is so good. All the sandwich has in it is: peanut butter and M&M's. Try it! You will just die!

The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies, Ever!

2009-09-01T16:43:00.000-07:00

So, about two weeks ago I realized I had never made chocolate chip cookies from scratch and thought it was about time I did. I follow the blog Bakerella all the time. She had this recipe on her blog and let me tell it is so easy and takes no time at all to whip up. Since last week I have made these cookies twice. I am making them as I type! She also has this recipe for pumpkin chocolate chip cookies I will for sure check out this Fall. Please try these! You will make them at least once a week. Sorry Pillsbury premade cookies but I will never buy you again. So sad that our relationship has to end, but I have moved on to something new and definitely better!

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup butter, room temperature

1 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup sugar

2 eggs

2 tsp vanilla

2 cups chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a medium bowl, mix flour, baking soda and salt with a wire whisk and set aside.
With a mixer, beat butter and both sugars until well blended.
Beat in eggs and vanilla.
Add flour mixture in two additions until combined.
Stir in 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips.
Use a mini ice cream scoop to drop cookie dough on a parchment covered cookie sheet about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 8-10 minutes.
Tip: About half way through baking, sprinkle reserved chips on top of cookies. This is just to make them prettier so, some of the chips are seen on top

Dora Live

2009-09-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

On our recent visit to Atlanta we saw Dora and Boots at the Dora Live show. Oh how Caroline loves Dora and Boots. One of the first things out of her mouth in the morning is "Dora and Boots!" I am not too sure what she sees in that little girl and her monkey, but she loves them.

Fabulous Sites You Need To Visit

2009-08-30T13:43:00.000-07:00

So I have been in search for a cute new tote to carry all my activities for Caroline in. I came across it today. I was reading a blog I regularly read and saw that the blogger just bought this one. So cute! Check out this site whitneycarolinedesigns.com. Too cute and so Southern!

Getting Ready For Moms Day Out

2009-08-28T05:57:00.000-07:00

Well, today should be the day that I figure out which Moms Day Out program Caroline will be attending. We are signed up for 2 and have been on the fence. I have got to decide today because one starts Monday and the other has orientation this coming up Monday. I would love her to go to our church MDO, but they don't have a curriculum and very little structure. I think it is very important that kids especially Carolines age to have some sort of curriculum because their brains are sponges and they pick up everything. I love our church, but that is the one thing we don't agree with. Will it be Prince of Peace of Green Valley? I will let you know as soon as I decide. Above is a picture of Caroline's new lunchbox, water bottle and bag tag.

Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

2009-08-26T16:21:00.000-07:00

When I was younger and lived in Hawaii I had a friend named Chanda and her mom use to make this delicious muffins. I have remembered and thought of these muffins often during the past 20 years. They are a great after school snack and some what nutritious with banana in it. Dora and Boots would say "Yum yum yum yum yum, ¡delicioso!"

Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

Ingredients:
1 cup butter, softened
2 cups sugar
7 large ripe bananas, mashed
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 eggs, slightly beaten
3 cups flour
3/4 c chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda

Directions:
In large bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Then, blend in the bananas, vanilla and eggs.
Whisk together the dry ingredients in separate bowl.
Add dry ingredients to the banana mixture and mix until just combined and then fold in chocolate chips with wooden spoon.
Pour mixture into muffin pans.
4. Bake at 350F until done. Check muffins after 25 minutes. You will know muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean and the tops of the muffins are golden brown. Cool the banana bread in the pan for 10 minutes then cool completely on a wire rack.

Enjoy!

The New Camera

2009-08-23T14:36:00.000-07:00

We got a new Camera!

To Market To Market

2009-08-20T20:03:00.000-07:00

Yeah I am off to Atlanta tomorrow. I am hitting the Apparel Market to check out some future business possibilities. Too too exciting! The family will also fit in some fun stuff. Dora Live on Saturday and hopefully a little visit to the American Girl store. Caroline is in love with Bitty Baby "Baby" and would love to pick her up a few things. I will post some pictures later this weekend.

Great Picture Frame Site! Best So Far!

2009-08-19T13:40:00.001-07:00

Recently I was on a new friends blog and she had a posted ling to this blog and I totally fell in love with all the frames. I am going to order a custom one for a painting my Mom had made for Caroline. I am so excited! I will post the picture of the finished product. Check them out! So cool! http://www.simplysquared.blogspot.com/

2009-08-10T17:48:00.000-07:00

Some of the items are am obsessed with at the moment. I want, or actually have the first two, for this fall. I am dying for the Tortoise patent flats, but I am afraid I have to wait for my birthday. The hair band is so ethereal and very attracive in your hair.

Sunday School

2009-08-10T17:35:00.000-07:00

Richie and I have been wanting to get more involved in our church, so I have volunteered to teach the three your old Sunday School class. I am so excited! It is a new venture, but I am definitely pumped about getting more involved in our church!

Just Call Me Tinker Bell!

2009-08-10T07:10:00.001-07:00

So, the McDowell family is on its way to going "Green." On our way to church yesterday Caroline was sucking on a lollipop and when she was done she handed me her lollipop stick, as she always does. Instead of holding on to it I opened the window and let it fly. Everyone in the call flipped! My husband and parents. All three were yelling at me all at once and it didn't stop until we went into the church doors. So, it go me thinking....they're right. So, my mission is to try to go "Green." My very good friend Sara has been sharing her knowledge and all the "Earth friendly" products she uses. You can check out her blog. I have her linked to mine...Sara Smile. I went this weekend and bought some great products and actually just got done using them in my bathroom. I used the Seventh Generation products and let me tell you that I am addicted. The products worked so well and after I was done it smelt like a spa in my bathroom. i already use the Green Works Natural Products and am very happy with them.

Caroline is hooked on Tinker Bell at the moment, so I thought who could be greener than Tink herself? She is my going "Green" icon. She loves the Earth and nature and she does sport a marvelous green mini and some awfully cute green ballet flats. She is the epitome of "Green Glam."

This weekend Caroline was showered with all things Disney. On a recent trip to Disneyland in California; my mother bought everything at the theme park. Lots of princess, Minny Mouse and Tinker Bell stuff. I will share with you all the stuff later. She also picked her up a couple of Halloween costume options. I think we have decided on Tinker Bell, since Caroline is loving her at the moment.

So here's to going "Green" and Tinker Bell!

I will keep up updated on any other products and methods I start using and any other information my green guru friend Sara shares with me.

Carolines Items For Sale On Ebay

2009-07-30T07:25:00.001-07:00

Carolines Items are for sale on Ebay. I have almost 100 items to sell, so not all of the items are up just yet. Sizes range from 12 month to 2T. Alot of things that are New with Tags!!! Check it out! Search for me on Ebay. My Ebay name is Cydneymcdowell. Give me till theend of the day to post all of the items. Only posted a 3rd so far.

Sewing

2009-07-28T17:54:00.000-07:00

After taking a bit of a hiatus I am back in the swing of things! Since, I have been slacking I will be going to sit n' sews for the next two Fridays. I have got to work on some cute things for sweet Caroline for this Fall/Winter. I have already been working on Caroline's Halloween play outfit and let me tell it is way too cute! I am so excited! Keep you updated and will post a picture later.

Splish Splash

2009-07-27T19:11:00.001-07:00

Caroline's New Hobby

2009-07-27T18:57:00.000-07:00

Wow! Who new a daughter of mine would like to fish? She really enjoys it! She tried it for the first time a couple of months ago. She has two poles and a Barbie tackle box. Before she left yesterday to fish with Poppy at the lake behind my parents house; she told me that she was going to catch a "big" fish. I asked her is she was going to catch a mommy or daddy fish, and she said a "daddy" fish. I thought it was cute. She also loved the ducks too. Even though the ducks were really geese; she loved them any way. Richie will be picking up a new hobby as well.

Some Long Lost Summer Pics

2009-07-26T18:05:00.000-07:00

It has been so long since I have posted any pictures, so I have a bit of catching up to do.

Home Sweet Home For Sale

2009-07-26T17:51:00.000-07:00

Yes! Our house is up for sale. We are in no rush to sell, but homes are selling fast in our neighborhood and thought this could be a good time. I am excited to see where this year will take us. Richie's is approaching his last week of school, so he will have his Master's in Engineering with an emphasis in Construction Management. We could not be any prouder of him! We thought the studying would end, but it has just started. Richie will be sitting for his P.E. in October, so studying will kicked up a notch until then. We will keep you updated with the house and where we will end up after. For now it is up in the air.