The Few... The Proud.....

This morning my family received the news that my 18 yr. young cousin ( My mother's brother's son) is leaving for Iraq Dec. 23rd. This brave, daring boy enlisted just a few months ago- this will be his first tour. My little Mimi is devastated to say the least- This is her youngest grandchild of 7. I use to babysit and change his diapers!
Blake is a noble, strong, dashing, humorous, smart, loveable guy- He is pumped to go. Though, he has hidden this enthusiasm from the women in this family- as to not upset them I suppose, and put them in an inconsolable, crying, fetal position state as they are at this time- I am Super Proud of him- though the worry and fear are overwhelming- This will be my 2nd cousin that has left for duty since this war began. Joe, a Sniper for the U.S. Army, arrived home safe 9 months ago. His Father served in Veitnam and is MIA over the waters of the Bamuda Triangle for over 30 years now.
Please keep my family and this Fine, Young Man Blake in your prayers.

Have a Blessed Thanksgiving!

Tussie Mussies

OMGosh~ They are literally EVERYWHERE! My Studio is filled with them! I am soooooooo happy to be creating Christmas Cheer! I have some going into my Etsy Shop- a few are there now, more in the next few days. Many here that are Customs and then some that are gifts- and maybe another GIVEAWAY!!! (hint hint! Check back next week for details!)
And then I have a bunch of Albums I am working on- all at the same time! Several Planners- being as it is getting close to the New Year!!- that reminds me, I need to make myself one of those. oh my!! Let's see, oh yeah and I am in a frenzy because my MOTHER is coming for a visit- EEKK!
My baby brother is getting married this weekend so lots of things going on. Both my babies are in it. They look soooooo cute in their tuxs!!
Klein is 10- he is an usher, and Reid is the Ring Bearer !! I will post some pics- it should be a GORGEOUS WEDDING!! It is in Natchitoches, La- That alone says alot- This town is the setting from the Movie "STEEL MAGNOLIAS". This weekend there is also the Festival of the Lights- So everywhere will be glammed in Christmas Delight!! In fact the Bride and Groom picked this weekend for that very reason- The Festival will be having Fireworks going off right at dark- Just as my brother and his bride are pronounced "husband & wife" Okay ~ yeas if you are like me and been married for a while- (my hubby and I have been together over 15 years)- This is all pretty silly and well, yeah it's gotten Bridezila-ish to be honest- But, they are young and excited and well, lets face it, it will be kinda cool!

Well, I also wanted to say WELCOME HOME BELLAS!! Have enjoyed reading and looking at some great pics from your trip-

Have a great week everyone!!

Yummies

Well, in between the scary ghost, witches and a few super heroes that came by to visit last night I was busy getting more things ready for the FALL FEST my older son's school puts on each year. My preschooler calls these "Yummies". He had filled up on a few before making the rounds through the neighborhood- umm, probably what kept him up so late- or perhaps the goooy carmel apples didn't help?
These YUMMIES are Oatmeal Raisin. My Mimi was the best cook- I am so lucky to have some recipes from her collection of yummies!
Although I love Halloween I am happy to move forward. Christmas is my FAvOriTe! But I have to remind myself to slow down and enjoy the fall. My studio is FILLED with Christmas goodies- Glitter Stars, Garland, Shimmery Snowmen, Vintage Santas- all going into projects. So it makes it very hard to be in a fall mood when I see that those darn frosty snowmen are dancing out of the corner of my eye!!
Well, Hope all had a great night!