Say Cheese!

Pictures yesterday morning went well - a whole 2 hours later and we were finally leaving with pictures in hand. Fortunately, I asked my mom to go along, or I do not know how that would have worked. The kids did great - Elle wasn't so sure about it all, but after she saw her brothers smile for the camera, she decided to give it a try.

I thought it would be fun to look at a side by side comparison between their pictures - wow, what changes.

Here's Quintin - 4 years on the left and 5 years on the right. He is getting to be so big. He's starting kindergarten this fall.

Here's Elle - 2 years on the left and 2.5 years on the right. Her baby face is going away.

Here's Colin - 3 months on the left and 7 months on the right. His curls grew in since that last picture!

Every summer, I like to get a picture of me with the children - mostly for T's desk. But this year, I purchased this picture in a frame with each of the kids' pictures surrounding it. I think I will treasure it forever. You saw this picture at the top - it'll be removed when I get tired of seeing myself everytime I open up my blog. I think it is a great picture - it captures Elle so well! heehee
Here's my 3 kiddos!
Thanks for taking a blog-walk done Sentimental Road with me today! And, thank you for your heart felt comments yesterday in relating to the feelings I shared. It is a blessing to walk this journey with friends!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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Hold your baby

When Quintin was first born, I remember so many people telling me to just enjoy holding him. I got so tired of hearing that because I felt like that was all I did.

Now, all I want to do is hold Colin - and sometimes I feel like the day just slips by; I put him to bed at night and feel like I didn't hold him all day.

Today I'm taking the children for their pictures. Since they all had a birthday last month (5, 2.5 and 6 months), its time for pictures. I love having them get their pictures taken - it just shows how much they've grown. Tomorrow I hope to have a new blog header at the top of the page, they've changed so much since those pictures were taken. The picture of Quintin at the top of the blog is over a year old. But what happened in that year?

All this has me thinking about time - am I spending my time with the kids wisely? Am I wishing time away? Sometimes I just wish that a certain 'stage' will pass by quickly and they'll grow into the next stage - I have it in my mind that the next stage will be better. But, that stage will just come with its own difficulties. I'm trying desperately to enjoy my children in each stage they are at - sometimes it is very easy to enjoy them, sometimes, not so easy. (Can I hear an amen?)

With Colin, I'm in serious denial. I'm not ready for him to move on to the next stage. He is our last baby, no more (unless something miraculous happens in my body. TMI? sorry.) He'll soon be sitting up, then crawling - I about cried when his two bottom teeth came in. It happens so fast.

You know what? I wish I would have known then (when Quintin was a baby) what I know now (not a whole lot more) because I think I could have enjoyed him so much more - rather than worrying all the time if he was getting enough sleep, to drink, etc. Was he getting enough mommy/daddy time?

I'm not sure where this is going - just feeling sentimental with their pictures today, I guess.

So, I'll put an end to my sentimentality and ask: Can anyone tell me how to stop time? And, is 'sentimentality' a word? (must be, it didn't come up when I did spellcheck!)

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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In the kitchen...

While drinking a Pepsi (my usual 24 ouncer), T looks at me and says teasingly, "That's not good for you...all that caffeine."

So, I question him, "So, do you want clean clothes, a clean house, a meal and children who act somewhat civil?"

T jokingly answers with his own question, "Is that too much to ask for? You can't get it done without the caffeine?"

Picking up a monster cookie, I answer, "No, I can't. I need the chocolate too!"

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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Blogger Redesigns

Thanks for all your sweet comments about my new blog and Susan's redesign. I really enjoy learning how to make the changes. Its a challenge to me, if I see something on a blog, to learn how to copy it and put it on my blog.

When I first started blogging, I saw all these cool looking blogs - templates I'd never seen in the blogger options. So, I started digging and 'googling' for ideas how to do it.

Its taken some time, but I've learned a few tricks. My favorite part though, isn't with the blog templates. As I mentioned yesterday, I enjoy making the graphics. And then, just recently, I came across a new blog, with this description:

A dummies guide, tips, tricks, help for all new bloggers on Web templates, Blog templates, designs, widgets, layout, JavaScript, HTML codes, SEO, Google AdSense, gadgets, diagnostic tools, and how to monetize Blogger or Blogspot blogs.

Here is the link.

The changes are made in the html code of your blog design - if you decide to make changes, make sure you save your current html code (copy and paste it into a word doc). Changing the html codes around can delete your sidebar items, so be careful. Each time I start changes, I practice with a 'practice blog' that isn't public - then I can see how things work before making the changes official. There is also a 'preview' button when you change the code and you can see if the changes worked. If they didn't work, you can hit 'clear edits.'

On that site, you can find how to turn graphics into buttons (links) like I've done with my link to Momma Roar's Kitchen blog.

Now, Melodye, I'm off to build my house! ;)

Happy Saturday!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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Show & Tell #4

Today is Show & Tell at Kelli's House. Click on the above button to go to her place where you can see the rest of those joining in on the fun.

My Show & Tell today is a new blog I've started. Momma Roar's Kitchen was born out of a desire to have a place to store and share all of our family's favorite recipes. I've only gotten a few posted, and I hope to have some more soon, but I really like to have pictures to go with them.

I know some of you have already happened upon this cooking blog, but I still wanted to share it. So, please visit, and come back again to visit.

I always have fun creating the new looks and the graphics for them. I will have this graphic on my sidebar as a button to take you over there from here. Please stop by and pull up a chair.

By the way, you'll notice most of the recipes are for desserts - while we do like our desserts around here, I plan to get some other recipes posted too!

Have a blessed weekend!


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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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Cute

We leave our garage doors open a crack so air can move through. Yesterday I went to get something and Elle heard me and this is what I saw - I just had to grab the camera! She can always put a smile on your face!

10th Winner & It's all over

Okay, the "It's All Over" part of the title, needs to be sung like at the end of a football game followed by the claps.

The final winner in my Birthday Give-Away contest and winner of the book The Ultimate Gift is:

Myrna

Congratulations!!

Drop me a line and I'll get that in the mail to you!

I've had a great time with these give-aways, I wish I had something I could give to each of you. Congratulations to the winners!

I do have one more give-away and this goes to someone who has entered all 10 days and still, bless her heart, has never won. So, Diana, please email me - I'd like to send you a Southern Living subscription! Thanks for playing everyone!

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It's all over...the celebration, the birthday, the desire to hang on to being 31... ;D just teasing

I was talking to a dear friend on the phone last night and I mentioned that I've noticed as I get older, birthdays just aren't the same - they aren't as magical as they were when I was a little girl. Today came and went like any other day. No streamers hanging from the ceiling, no balloons. As a little girl, I always was so excited as the month of July approached - it just felt, I don't know, magical. And we didn't have huge birthday parties when we were children - I think my parents just had a way of making us feel special on our day.

But you know what? Yesterday did have a touch of magic - I was able to have a HUGE birthday party and invite all my friends to my little corner of the world (wide web). So many wonderful wishes for a happy birthday - it was awesome, so thank you all for your stopping by and for your sweet comments (whether you wrote 1 or 5)! My heart is full and overflowing, you have truly made this a very special birthday - one I'm not going to forget.

I am so blessed -
~A dear friend dropped off a card and cupcakes for me.
~My mom came out and gave me a big hug.
~My wonderful hubby commented on my blog and gave me a terrific birthday card.

~My children sang Happy Birthday countless times to me throughout the day.
~I have a family who loves me.
~I have a family to love.
~My mother in law called to wish me a happy birthday and is having us down on Thursday night for supper.
~My hubby said I didn't have to cook so I picked up take out!
~My ribs (thanks for the suggestion Aisha) were delicious.
~Even though they gave my order to the car that came ahead of me and I had to wait an extra 30 minutes while they remade my order - I was blessed with a free soda and chocolate cake!!

~I've learned that mistakes happen.
~I had the opportunity to speak with a dear friend, who doesn't live close, for almost 2 hours on the phone last night!
~I've been blessed with 32 wonderful and happy years of life.

~I'm blessed by each of you.

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for a wonderful and magical birthday this year. I pray an extra special blessing, today, on all who've blessed me.

Thank you my friends.

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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9th Winner, Birthday Sillies & Final Birthday Give-Away

And the winner of the Southern Living

Magazine subscription is:

Frazzled Farm Wife

*I was going to do a contest to see if anyone could guess which fellow blogger was celebrating her birthday today, too - then her name was pulled as today's winner - I wanted everyone to be able congratulate Chris and wish her a Happy Birthday, too!

Congratulations Chris and have a Wonderful Birthday!

Drop me a line and I'll get you set up for the magazine!

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Birthday Sillies

I hope you're enjoying the music, or if it hasn't started yet, just hang on! Who doesn't love the Beatles? Join in and sign - And, I promise I'll remove the music tomorrow - but don't tell me you didn't like it. Because even if it is my party and I can cry if I want to, I don't really want to cry! ;-) And this background color is just for today, too - to brighten things up for my party! ;-)

From yesterday's post,"I can't wait to show you the birthday card my parents gave me - its hilarious - just pray that I can find the picture from my childhood that will make you all know for certain - that I am a nut - and I have another picture that shows proof that it is inherited!"

I'm so excited, I found my picture I mentioned yesterday. Thank you Quintin for praying for Mommy's request last night!

This was taken at a friend's birthday party held at one of those cheesy pizza joints! Oh, to be young again!

And, this would be the card my parents gave me, lol, isn't it perfect?

The inside reads, "Good job so far." Bawhaahaa :D

The best part? (Although the card is awesome by itself.) A gift card to Macaroni Grille was inside - and, babysitting is included - thanks Mom and Dad!! (Oh, by the way, my mom caught me up to speed - she is not taller than me, she says she is 1/4 of an inch shorter than me - Here I thought I was the short one in the family. Thanks for reading Mom)

Oh, and, my final picture - these are my parents. This was taken last year at my nephew's birthday party.

Any questions? :D

And remember,

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I want to thank each of you for stopping by these last 10 days, and for all your wonderful comments! I always enjoy a party and this was such a fun way to celebrate!

The ULTIMATE and FINAL Birthday Give-Away!

I read this book this past winter in 2 days (with a preschooler, a toddler and a newborn, I think that's impressive). It is a fast read and an awesome story. It made me think about how I can instill these same 'gifts' in my children and how I can help them learn to live their lives to their fullest - because in the end, that is its own Ultimate Gift.

If you saw the movie or have read the book, please share your thoughts. So, leave a comment and be entered to win this book.

Thank you all for celebrating with me these past 10 days. The best birthday present for me is to share my birthday with all of you! The second best birthday present? If you desire, I'd love to see you Pay It Forward.

Wishing you all a happy and wonderful 10th of July!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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8th Winner, Jibber-Jabber & Birthday Give-Away #9

And the winner of the Celebrations Bowl is:

Just Mom

Congratulations!

Drop me a line so I can get it in the mail for you to enjoy! And, uh, that will be coming without any cookies inside! ;-)

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Jibber-Jabber

Is tomorrow really my birthday? Can't I stay 29 forever? ;-)

Ok, so tomorrow is the 3rd anniversary of my 29th birthday, but really, who's counting anyway?

I can't wait to show you the birthday card my parents gave me - its hilarious - just pray that I can find the picture from my childhood that will make you all know for certain - that I am a nut - and I have another picture that shows proof that it is inherited!

Award

Now, on a more serious note, I want to take a moment to acknowledge an early birthday present from dear Susan. She awarded me yesterday with the Blogger Reflection Award. This is an award created by a 16 year old girl, you can read more here.

Here's what Susan shared:

Leigh Ann at Living to Learn & Learning to Live: Leigh Ann fits this Award to a T. She is a source of love and encouragement to everyone. Who else would be celebrating her own birthday on the 10th of this month by blessing 10 other bloggers with a gift she draws out of her famous Kasey Kahne hat every day!!!! Leigh Ann is witty beyond belief, kind, thoughtful and mature beyond her young years. She is an inspiring wife and mother of 3 young children and handles it all with charm & grace.

I'm honored to receive this and am humbled. Susan, thank you for your kind words, your friendship and the inspiration your blog and your emails provide me.

I want to be able to devote the proper time to this, so I will wait until after the birthday celebrations are complete!

Camping
I was going to post a slide show from our camping weekend - but only took 2 pictures - makes for a rather dull slideshow, dontcha think? So, I'll just post them, along with a picture I took of Quintin last week when we went to a friend's house to fish in her pond. We were gearing up for this camping weekend, Quintin and T did a lot of fishing!

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Birthday Give-Away #9

And, here is today's Birthday Give-Away! I am giving away another one year subscription to Southern Living magazine. Leave a comment with this post and you're name will be tossed into the hat! Good luck and please stop back tomorrow - It is the ultimate of gifts!

Have a wonderful day!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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7th Winner, A Recipe & Birthday Give-Away #8

And the winner of the book The Po*wer of a Pra*ying Wi*fe by Stor*mie Omar*tian is:

MorningSong



Congratulations!


Drop me a line and we'll get it in the mail!

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This weekend is our church's annual camping weekend. This year, T and I decided just he and Quintin would camp in the tent and I'd bring the younger two up to visit. The campground is about 35 minutes away, and I've actually been enjoying the ride each day! Today I'll be heading up for the church service and then lunch. We'll pack up and head home, opting not to swim because the kids will be beat! I'll share some pictures tomorrow.

T's favorite cookies were requested for the weekend away: Monster Cookies - I wanted to share this recipe with you, its from the Ultimate Southern Living Cookbook.

Monster Cookies
1/2 c butter, softened
1 c sugar
1 c plus 2 Tbsp firmly packed brown sugar
2 c peanut butter
3 large eggs
1 tsp light corn syrup
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
4 1/2 c regular oats, uncooked
2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup candy-coated chocolate pieces (aka m&m's)
1 c semisweet chocolate morsels

Beat butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy; gradually add sugars, beating well. Add peanut butter and next 3 ingredients; beat well. Add oats, soda, and salt; stir well. Stir in chocolate pieces and morsels. (Dough will be stiff.)

Pack dough into a 1/4-cup measure. Drop dough 4 inches apart onto lightly greased cookie sheets. Lightly press each cookie with fingertips into a 3 1/2-inch circle.

Bake at 350 for 12 to 15 minutes (centers of cookies will be slightly soft.) Cool slightly on cookie sheets; remove to wire racks to cool. Yield: 2 1/2 dozen

We like to make mini-monster cookies - This way, I get 5 dozen and I don't feel as guilty giving one to the kids! :D

Just a note, T told me tonight that he was not impressed with my decision to add the m&m's while the batter was still in the mixer - they're all broken - can you imagine? ;-) So, please make note of that when you're making these cookies!

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Birthday Give-Away #8

Let's continue to celebrate my birthday with another Southern Living at Home product -

the Celebrations Bowl.

"Use as a centerpiece filled with seasonal embellishments such as fresh fruit, ornaments, or gourds. Or use as a large everyday serving piece for salads or sides. The tall foot and flared shape make this all-purpose piece a stunning statement."

The catalog described that so much better than I possibly could have! ;-)

Leave me a comment today to be entered into the drawing for this bowl. And, don't forget to go and vote for the Bloggy Hoss Elections!

Have a blessed Sunday!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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6th Winner, Personal DNA & Birthday Give-Away #7

And the winner of the Jamestown Votives is:

Susan

Congratulations!

Drop me a line and I'll get it out in the mail to you!

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Just for fun...I saw this at Dawnelle's and wanted to try it.

**Edited to add: Today is Dawnelle's birthday - so stop by and join me in signing to her!

Here is the personalDNA map that uniquely represents my personality. Move your mouse over any part of the box or strip to learn more about the traits that the colors represent.

Animated Creator

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Birthday Give-Away #7


Stormie Omartian's The Power of a Praying Wife - I read this book with two of my closest friends last winter - we actually set it up as an email study - with 9 children between the 3 of us, this was the best way to get together and talk! This book taught me a lot - and I think it even helped T, lol! Seriously, the biggest thing I took away from this book was to quit nagging and just start praying. Rather than nag about something I don't like, I take it to the Lord in prayer and allow Him to do the work that needs to be done.

I think this is an excellent book and I'd like to bless someone with. If you've never read any of her books, I would like to encourage you to. I've just started The Power of a Praying Parent.


Leave me a comment and you'll be entered - thanks again for playing along! I'll draw a winner tomorrow morning - so come back and see if you've won and what I have waiting to surprise someone with!


By the way, did you know today is 07/07/07?


Blessings to you all!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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5th Winner, A Meme & Birthday Give-Away #6

And the winner of the Estate Napkin Holder is:

Carrie! :o)

Congratulations!

Drop me a line with your address and I'll get that in the mail to you!!

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I have been tagged by MorningSong (way back on June 15) to complete a dining out meme. I certainly enjoy a good meal away from home and it is even beginning to feel more doable with 3 children.

The rules of this meme:

1. Link to name of person that tagged you.

2. Include state and country you live in.

3. List top five favorite local restaurants.

4. There's a rule about tagging people - but I'll leave it open to any who would enjoy doing this one! If you do, let me know - I'd love to come read it!


Here's where we enjoy eating out in our little corner of Pennsylvania:

1. A local restaurant and deli, Isaac's, is known for its pink flamingo logo. What makes this place truly unique is that every sandwich is named for a bird. Delicious food and we always enjoy the bright atmosphere of this restaurant.

T's favorite sandwich: The Oriole. I can't find the description on their website.

My favorite sandwich: The Ruffed Grouse (also PA's state bird): "Turkey breast with thinly sliced ham, crunchy cole slaw and melted provolone cheese and mayo on a fresh kaiser roll."

Some of their other sandwiches include: Reuben, Mockingbird, Bird of Paradise, Finch, Hummingbird and Road Runner to name a few. And there is even a Dodo bird sandwich.

2. Macaroni Grill - This restaurant came to our local mall a few years ago. I hesitated going because I didn't want "another Olive Garden." After eating there with my sister and mom, I love it. And the kids love their "good bread" as we call it. They don't even know the name of the restaurant, they just know it as the place to get the "good bread." I love their Pasta Milano.

3. Red Lobster - I can't get enough of seafood or RL's cheddar bay biscuits. My good friend "A" gave me a great recipe that makes biscuits just like RL. Plus, this was always my Gramie's favorite place to eat. One time, when I was first married, I went with her and her girlfriends for their once a month luncheon date - it was so much fun! I always think of her when I go there.

4. There's a 'fancy' restaurant down near the touristy part of the county that is a favorite of ours too - this is a date night kind of place - with reservations and all! The Greenfield Inn and Restuarant is delicious and T took me there for New Year's Eve one year. And it was my Gramie who had given us a gift certificate to try this place out.

5. Friendly's - Gotta love this place with kids! Fun sundaes and balloons on the ceiling, who could ask for anything more?

Well, there you have it! My 5 favorite places to eat out! One other thing I take into consideration is their desserts - they've gotta have something rich and chocolaty! T always gives me hard time that I stop eating my meal halfway through so that I can save room for dessert - why not? Plus, it gives me leftovers to take home for lunch the next day!!

Anyone who wants to play along, please do - even if you list your 5 favorites in the comments. Thanks MorningSong!

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Birthday Give-Away #6

This is another Southern Living at Home product

The Jamestown Votives

"The votives are encircled in simple yet delicate loops and swirls of iron." This is a set of 4 votives - they are adorable and I have several throughout my home. The center item is the Jamestown Centerpiece.

Just leave a comment today and your name will be entered in the hat!

Good luck!! I'll draw the name of the winner tomorrow morning, so be sure to come back and see what tomorrow's give-away is! Thanks for celebrating with me!


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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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4th Winner, A Recipe & Birthday Give-Away #5

And the winner of the One for All: A Pennsylvania Number Book is:

Amber

Congratulations!

Amber, just DROP ME A LINE with your address please! For those who were interested in this book, you can find it at barnes and noble and the publishing company. There are many states completed, so check it out and see if your state is there!

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Yesterday we celebrated the 4th with my husband's family at the house of his sister. We were able to get some swimming in, but as we started getting ready to eat, it began to rain. We weren't complaining, though, as we've been needing it for a while.

I took along a Pizza Pasta Salad , here's the recipe!

Pizza Salad
From Taste of Home

1 lb spiral macaroni, cooked and drained
3 medium tomatoes, seeded and diced
1 lb cheddar cheese, cubed
1-2 bunches green onions, sliced
3 oz sliced pepperoni
¾ c vegetable oil
2/3 c grated Parmesan cheese
½ c red wine vinegar
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
Croutons, optional

In a large bowl, combine macaroni, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, green onions and pepperoni. In a small bowl, combine oil, Parmesan cheese, vinegar and seasonings; pour over macaroni mixture. Cover and refrigerate for several hours. Top with croutons just before serving if desired.

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Birthday Give-Away #5

All the prizes this week are things I love and I offer them as a piece of me - kind of a way to get to know me better. Again, I just mention for those who've already won, if you leave a comment, your name will not be added into the *hat* (which by the way, will not be a prize. But, thanks for asking! haa).


Today's give-away is the Estate Napkin Holder from the Southern Living at Home collection. SL at H is a home party business that was formed to meet the requests of the Southern Living readers. The readers wanted to make the pages come alive in their homes, so SL at H was created.

From the catalog, "The simplest things can give the greatest pleasure. You'll use this graceful embellished iron napkin holder for everything from dinner parties to simple family suppers. Includes a removable bar to keep napkins in place.


Leave your comment - everyone who leaves a comment is entered, you don't have to beg or pour chocolate on top of your comment - although I'm having such fun reading all your comments!

You are all a great group of ladies and I'm thrilled to do this with you - a way to honor my friends and have a birthday celebration at the same time. And for those who've entered every day but haven't won yet - stick with me please - there's more to come!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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3rd Winner, Happy 4th & Birthday Give-Away #4

And the winner of the Southern Living magazine subscription is:

Teresa

CONGRATULATIONS!

Teresa, just DROP ME A LINE with your address and I'll redeem it online for you today!

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Happy Birthday, America


"Ragged Old Flag"By John R. Cash
(C) 1974 House of Cash, Inc.

I walked through a county courthouse square,
On a park bench an old man was sitting there.
I said, "Your old courthouse is kinda run down."
He said, "Naw, it'll do for our little town."
I said, "Your old flagpole has leaned a little bit,
And that's a Ragged Old Flag you got hanging on it."

He said, "Have a seat," and I sat down.
"Is this the first time you've been to our little town?"
I said, "I think it is." He said, "I don't like to brag,
But we're kinda proud of that Ragged Old Flag."

You see, we got a little hole in that flag there when
Washington took it across the Delaware.
And it got powder-burned the night Francis Scott Key
Sat watching it writing Say Can You See.
And it got a bad rip in New Orleans
With Packingham and Jackson tuggin' at its seams."

And it almost fell at the Alamo
Beside the Texas flag, but she waved on though.
She got cut with a sword at Chancellorsville
And she got cut again at Shiloh Hill.
There was Robert E. Lee, Beauregard, and Bragg,
And the south wind blew hard on that Ragged Old Flag."

On Flanders Field in World War I
She got a big hole from a Bertha gun.
She turned blood red in World War II.
She hung limp and low by the time it was through.
She was in Korea and Vietnam.
She was sent where she was by her Uncle Sam.

"She waved from our ships upon the briny foam,
And now they've about quit waving her back here at home.
In her own good land here she's been abused --
She's been burned, dishonored, denied, and refused."

And the government for which she stands
Is scandalized throughout the land.
And she's getting threadbare and wearing thin,
But she's in good shape for the shape she's in.
'Cause she's been through the fire before
And I believe she can take a whole lot more.

"So we raise her up every morning,
take her down every night.
We don't let her touch the ground
and we fold her up right.
On second thought, I do like to brag,'
Cause I'm mighty proud of that Ragged Old Flag."

Happy Birthday America!

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Birthday Give-Away #4 -

A very appropriate book to give on our nation's birthday. This is "One for All, A Pennsylvania Number Book." Quintin received this book for his birthday and I knew I needed to share a copy for my birthday.

"Take an armchair counting tour through the great state of Pennsylvania. Using state symbols, landmark events, and famous people, numbers come to life in poetry and pose."

"Starting with one of the most recognized symbols in the state (and country)

'Our Liberty Bell is number 1,

announcing the birth of our nation.

It rang from Independence Hall so high,

in 1776, in the month of July.'

and working all the way up through the largest chocolate factory in the world, the history and traditions of the Keystone State are brought to life."

So, leave a comment and be entered for this book give-away.

**Edited to add: My intentions with this are to award 10 different people a prize - so if you've already won, please understand that your name will no be entered even if you leave a comment! Thanks!

Just a little fact to share: July 4 was my mom's due date with me. Who else would it have been more appropriate to have fireworks on the day she is born? (I was even born at 10pm - just when they would have started.) Alas, it was not to be. Which is good for you! Because you have 6 more days to win prizes!!!

Happy 4th!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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2nd Winner, 2nd Meme and Birthday Give-Away #3

And the WINNER is: Lori B -

Lori send me an email with your address!

Congratulations!

This is the "Official Kasey Kahne" autographed hat used to draw names.

This is Kasey Kahne (left).

My wonderful hubby went to a truck show, stood in line, and had his picture taken with a guy his crazy wife thinks is cute!

Just wanted to clear everybody up on who Kasey is!

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Got this from Annie's (My life as Annie) and thought it looked fun...

You Lookin' at Me?

1. Are you taller than your mom? Nope, she's 5'3" and I'm 5' 1.5" (You know I'm gonna always count that .5 inch)

2. What color is your car? charcoal - its new (to us), so this is the first vehicle I've had that isn't blue for almost 10 years - it is very exciting, really! (and blue is even my favorite color)

3. What is the closest thing to you that is red? My teddy bear music box that plays "These are a Few of my Favorite Things." My mom cleaned her house and gave me a whole box of junk goodies. Do your mothers do this too?

4. What is your ringtone? Just a generic ring - not sure how to do the fancy stuff with it!

5. Are you sick? Not that I'm aware of.

6. What color is your favorite pillow? I guess I'll have to say the ones on the sofa in the family room - they are brown and tan - swirly designs.

7.What is your favorite video game? Mahjongg - very addictive - it isn't really a video game, though, it is on an addicting games website.

8. Had a nap today? Nope

9. Gold or Silver? I like both - my watch band is gold and silver - I love it!

10.Is there an animal that creeps you out? Pretty much everything that isn't a dog or cat - okay, maybe I'm not that bad, but I do get creeped out a lot. And remember, I wanted to be a veterinarian?

11.Who was the last person you rode an elevator with? My friend Megan, while we were at the mall, on a rainy day at the beach.

12. Did you go iceskating as a kid? No, I tried once when T and I were dating - I think my ankles are too weak, I couldn't even stay up!

13. Ever have stitches? Yes. 1) above my eyebrow - Apparently I was running around the house as a young child and my parents told me to stop. So my dear sister offered her help by sticking her foot out and tripping me - My head collided with a rocking chair. 2) after my car accident - I needed 14 stitches at my right temple. 3) 2 c-sections - they used stitches with Elle and staples with Colin. I now know that I heal better with staples than stitches. Interesting stuff, huh?

14. Favorite non-alcoholic drink? Diet Wild Cherry Pepsi - this is my favorite drink EVER - 'cause I don't care for alcohol

15. How long ago did you kiss someone? When I put the kids down for naps/quiet time

16. What's something you want to do before you die? See my children accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior and marry a wonderful spouse.

17. Have you ever caught something on fire? A few meals!

18. Have you ever seen a ghost? no

19.Have you ever seen the northern lights? no

20. Do you know how to use chop sticks? I've used them, but that doesn't mean I know how! lol

21. Name something good that happened today. All 3 children took naps - AT THE SAME TIME

22. What room are you in? den

23. Are you worried about something you can't control? I often am, but I am trying to be better at giving it to God - as He wants us to. A good friend is teaching me that when God closes a door, he opens a window.

24. Do you take daily medications? no

25. Ever been in a fight? That was how my sister and I played growing up, didn't you? lol

26. Are you wearing nail polish? My toes only - I can't stand the feel of nail polish on my fingers - they feel too heavy. If I put it on, it never lasts more than an hour or two.

27. Favorite color? any shade of blue

28. Innie or Outie? innie

29. Ever used a Ouija board? In junior high I slept over at a friend's house and she was trying to show me how to use it. After she started telling me what we could do with it, I told her to put it away.

30. Sweet or Sour? sweet

31. Sun or Moon? both

32. What shoes did you wear today? Old Navy flip flops

33. Favorite eye color of the opposite sex? brown

34. Most important quality in any relationship? love

35. Favorite zombie movie? Not a big fan of those types of movies

36. Time of day you were born? 10:05pm - I believe this is why I am a night owl

37. Do you know your blood type? O+ and my daughter is the same. The boys both have my hubby's blood type.

38. What would you spend 5000 dollars on right now if you were handed it? A laptop

39. Name something annoying in public transit? Crowds

40. Did you grow up in the city or country? small town

41. Would you ever consider going on a reality tv show if offered a large sum of money? nah

42. Have you flown in your dreams? I'm not sure

43. Hugs or kisses? Hugs

44. You have 10 dollars to spend in the dollar store..what do you get? Index cards, picture frames and gift bags - because I've learned the cheap pens are exactly that - CHEAP.

45. Slurpee flavor? Cherry Pepsi or grape

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And, here is today's Birthday Give-Away! I am giving away another one year subscription to Southern Living magazine. So, leave your comment for this post to be entered into the drawing.

I will randomly draw a winner and post it tomorrow morning! Good luck to all! Be sure to come back tomorrow for another fun give-away!


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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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A Winner, a Meme and Birthday Give-Away #2

After writing everyone's name on a slip of paper (and only one time. So those of you who tried to enter more than one time by leaving multiple comments - Shame On You!! haa haa) and putting all the names in my Favorite Kasey Kahne hat, the name I drew was:

SewSensible

Congratulations!

Just send me an email with your name and address and I'll get the subscription started for you.

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Diana's tagged me for this meme (I know some of you have tagged me for others and I plan to do them this week, this one was just fresh in my mind!)

I'm not going to tag anyone, but thought it would be fun to answer these - 'cause I know how much everyone loves learning about me! lol

1. What were you doing 10 years ago? We were just married a year and living in an apartment about 25 minutes from where we live now. I would have just graduated from West Chester U in May and was beginning to look for a teaching position.

2. What were you doing 1 year ago? I was pregnant with Colin and was chasing a preschooler and a toddler around the house - I was tired!

3. Five snacks you enjoy? Pretzels, cheese curls, candy, ice cream and chips

4. Five songs to which you know all the lyrics: Superchick's Barlow Girls, theme song to Greatest American Hero, Be Thou My Vision, Praise You in the Storm, You are Amazing God

5. Five things you would do if you were a millionaire:
Tithe
Get myself a laptop
Give to many charities and missionaries
Hire someone to clean my house so I can spend more time volunteering at local shelters (once the kids are older and can come along)
Host the Biggest. Bloggin'. Party. Ever.

6. Five bad habits:
Too much time on the computer
Hogging the bed
Loading the dishwasher, filling with soap and walking away (totally unaware that I forgot to start it)
Letting the clothes that need ironed pile up
Spreading myself too thin to help others

7. Five things you like doing:
Spending time with my family
Going to the beach
Baking
Making new friends
Playing on the computer

8. Five things you would never wear again:
Short shorts
Nylon sweat pants and a polo shirt - from my PE teaching days
Turtlenecks
Toe rings
My hair super short

9. Five favorite toys
Camera
Computer
My mixer
Double ovens in kitchen (one is a convection oven so that is really fun to play with)
Anything one of my children are playing with.

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And, now for the part you've all been waiting for!

Today's give-away is the book the book "God Sto*ries from Lan*cas*ter County."

This book consists of 365 faith-lifting daily readings prepared by leaders of congregations and ministries, as well as leaders in the marketplace of commerce, business, government, education and the arts, all from Lancaster County.

Three such books have actually been written, and you can read more here.



I…pray…for those who will believe in me through their word, that they all may be one as you, Father, are in me and I in you. I pray that they may be one in us, so that the world may believe that you sent me. John 17:20–21

Book info was taken from the website of the Regional Church of Lancaster County.

Good luck to everyone - I will again draw the lucky winner (from my Kasey Kahne hat) from this posts's comments tomorrow morning at 7am est. Feel free to leave as many comments as you like, but you're name will only be entered once - GINGER, AISHA and MELODYE!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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Birthday Give-Away #1

First, I don't know what is the matter with my blog - I have no links on the right hand side. Is anyone else missing half their blog?

Second, I really enjoy when people have fun contests on their blogs. So, in honor of my upcoming birthday, I thought I'd do 10 days of July give-aways.

Today, being July 1, is day 1 of the give-aways! Leave your comment for this post to be entered into the drawing for a one year subscription to Southern Living magazine.

I will randomly draw a winner and post it tomorrow morning! Good luck to all! Be sure to come back tomorrow for another fun give-away!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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Rock On!

I've seen a new blogger award - Rockin' Girl Blogger - going around and I was surprised this week when MorningSong and Susan/Penless Thoughts nominated me for it.

You can read what MorningSong said, here. And, you can read what Susan said, here.

Thank you both so much. I thoroughly enjoy both your blogs and would certainly return the award to you both! But, I'm going to attempt to nominate some others.

There are so many Rockin' Blogs out there, but I'm choosing my 10 most favorite ROCKIN' READS! These blogs ROCK because this MOMMA says so! Any questions? lol :D

Ghost Girl - Haunting the Broken Tree

Tracy - Unless the Lord

Just Mom - Just Mom's Musings

Tracy - Fun with the Ferber Family

Kerrie - Experiencing Life...

Heidi Jo - Heidi Jo, What do you know?

Here are some newly discovered Rockin' Reads!

Amber - Trust in the Lord

Diana - Sunshine on my Shoulders

Rhonda Lowe - Let the Song Out

Short Stop - Short Stop

If you haven't visited these blogs before, please do, tell 'em Momma Roar sent you!

Thanks to all your girls who keep it REAL and ROCKIN'!!!




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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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It's written in the sand

As a little girl, I remember my dad taking pictures of me on the beach after writing my name in the sand. It has always been such a fond memory for me, so I decided to continue it with my children. Quintin had his first picture taken at 7 weeks old. I may have missed a year since then, but I was glad to snap the pictures this year - being that I only remembered to actually take the camera out to the beach 2 out of the 5 days!

You can vaguely see "LEIGH" in the sand and I think he cut "ANN" off, but, you get the idea! :D

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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Chocolate Ice Cream

A man approached an ice cream van and said, "I'd like two scoops of chocolate ice cream, please."

The girl behind the counter replied, "I'm very sorry, sir, but our delivery didn't come this morning. We're out of chocolate."

"In that case," the man continued, "I'll have two scoops of chocolate ice cream."

"You don't understand, sir," the girl said. "We have no chocolate."

"Then just give me some chocolate," he insisted.

Getting angrier by the second, the girl asked, "Sir, will you spell 'van,' as in 'vanilla'?"

The man spelled, "V-A-N."

"Now spell 'straw,' as in 'strawberry.'"

"OK. 'S-T-R-A-W.'"

"Now," the girl asked, "spell 'stink,' as in 'chocolate.'"

The man hesitated and then looked confused as he replied,"There is no stink in chocolate."

"That's what I've been trying to tell you!" she screamed.


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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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Overheard...

Quintin: "Elle, stop talking to me! I'm trying to tell myself something and I'm not done yet."

Elle: "Okay."

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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This day is yours

I asked God to take away my habit.
God said, No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give up.

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, No. His spirit is whole, his body is only temporary.

I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, No. Patience is a byproduct of tribulations; it isn't granted, it is learned.

I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, No. I give you blessings; happiness is up to you.

I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.

I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, No. You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.

I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, No. I will give you life, so that you may enjoy all things.

I asked God to help me love others, as much as He loves me.
God said....Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.

~author unknown


This day is yours - Don't throw it away.


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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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The Beach & A Birthday

This summer we took our family vacation with my dear friend Meg and her hubby and their two girls. They are expecting their third child in October. Meg and T grew up together and we graduated HS together.

Meg's youngest daughter, J, turned 4 the day before Quintin, so we celebrated their birthdays together. We ate supper out (Wednesdays kids eat FREE) and had the restaurant put candles in their sundaes.

J was very excited - Quintin was not thrilled about having his picture taken - he takes after his dad! He really was happy about his birthday though!

We had beautiful days of sun and great weather - with just one rainy day!

Our Cabana Boy!!
Last evening, we had my parents and T's parents over for Quintin's birthday. T and I were thinking since it was his 5th, we would see if he would want to invite friends for a party. I asked him if he wanted to invite a couple of friends from Sunday school or a couple of neighbors. He answered, "Mom, I just want to have a couple of Grandmas and Grandpas!" What a sweet boy - this made it so much easier on me with having just come home from the beach the day before the party! Here's my pirate birthday boy!

I saved all my bloggin' buddies a slice of cake - Enjoy it with some ice cream, too!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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Training Loving Hearts

Take a moment to stop by Training Hearts and join her commitment to training the hearts of our children. I think this is a fabulous commitment to make on behalf of our children.

Commitment Pledge:

We are a Christian family desiring to raise our children with the primary focus of Training their Hearts!

"I have no greater joy, than to hear my children walk in truth. III John 1:4
"Train up the child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6
"Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always so that it might go well with them and their children forever!" Deuteronomy 5:29

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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My 5 year old!

1. Was your first pregnancy planned? yes


2. Were you married at the time? yes


3. What were your reactions? Excited that we were pregnant, but scared thinking what have we done? :D


4. Was abortion an option for you? NO, NEVER


5. How old were you? 26


6. How did you find out you were pregnant? Pregnancy test


7. Who did you tell first? Poppa Roar


8. Did you want to find out the sex? Yes, but I only ever had one ultrasound at 9 weeks - so it was a surprise


9. Due date? June 22, 2002


10. Did you have morning sickness? No


11. What did you crave? Flavor ice and slushies


12. Who/What irritated you most? I was irritated if I didn't get enough sleep


13. What was your child's sex? male


14. Did you wish you had the opposite sex of what you had? no


15. How many pounds did you gain throughout the pregnancy? 27


16. Did you have a baby shower? Yes, about one month before


17. Was it a surprise or did you know? I knew - my sister planned it and had it at our house - it was so nice not to have to take gifts home!!


18. Did you have any complications during your pregnancy? Not really


19. Where did you give birth? At a hospital


20. How many hours were you in labor? My water broke at 12:30am on the 23rd and I had him 19 hours later - the beginning wasn't hard labor, just the last few hours were intense


21. Who drove you to the hospital? my husband


22. Who watched you give birth? my husband


23. Was it natural or c-section? natural


24. Did you take medicine to ease the pain? Most definitely!


25. How much did your child weigh? 6 lbs, 7 oz


26. When was your child actually born? 7:18 pm, June 23, 2002


27. What did you name him/her? Quintin Scott


28. How old is your first born today? My big boy is 5!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY QUINTIN!!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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Blogging Break

I'll be away from the computer again this week. Have a great week and I look forward to catching up with you later!

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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Mr. Right Meme

Today is our 11th wedding anniversary - WOW - this came around fast, it feels like we were just celebrating our 10th.

11 years ago we married...16 years ago yesterday was our first date. I'll be 32 next month - I've known T for more than half my life!

This Mr. Right Meme was floating around a while back and I was saving it up for today.

Poppa Roar - or T - My Mr. Right

His age? 33

How tall is he? 5'10"

How long did you know each other before you got together? We really didn't know each other on our first date

What physical features attracted you to him first? His smile and laugh when with his friends

What color are his eyes? Brown

His hair color? Dark brown with some distinguished gray mixed in now

His style? Cool, calm and collect (goodness, he's gotta be living with me)

Normal outfit? Jeans and nice dress shirt (thinking of what he wore when we went out last night)

How did you meet? I was decorating a friend's locker at school for her birthday and her locker just happened to be across from his. Soooooo, I tossed a balloon in his locker with a note giving him my phone number! Another good friend knew him from church and put in a couple good plugs for me. This happened the last week of school, and after school, I told another friend (who would be seeing him that night at graduation because they both played in the band) to tell him to stop over afterwards. It was so strange to see him at my door that night - that was the first time we ever really talked - in my parent's living room. I had no idea that he had any interest in me. He told me after we were dating a few years, that when he saw me in HS, he told a friend "That is the girl I'm gonna marry!"

How serious is it? Extremely serious

Are you "in love"? Most definitely and it grows stronger every day.

Do your parents like him? They love him - they always kid me that they paid him to take me off their hands! (Nice, I know!)

Do his parents like you? Yes, they treat me like a daughter!

Do you trust him? Of course!

Would you share a toothbrush with him? Yes, we've done it before when we forgot to pack one for vacation.

Would he let you wear his pants? Sure, I wore his drawstring shorts when I was pregnant! As far as 'who wears the pants in the family?' It is most definitely him, but he likes to let me think I do sometimes!!

Do you have a shirt of his that you sleep in? No.

Do you like the way he smells? Yes I do!

Can you picture having kids with him? Can and did!

What bothers you the most about him? He tries to leave work at work, but I can always tell when something is bothering him because he gets more quiet - but he acts like nothing is wrong.

Does he have a temper? He can if pushed, but he's worked hard to control it.

Are you happy to be with him? I couldn't imagine my life any other way.

Does he embarrass you in public? Not really - but he enjoys moving the car to a different parking space after I've run into a store.

Does he smoke or do drugs? Nope and nope.

Does he have any piercings? I couldn't even imagine that ever happening!

Any tattoos? Nope.

Does he have any scars that you know of? He has one on his eyebrow from being attacked by a dog when he was little. He also has small scars on his knee surgery a few years ago.

Is he a party dude or stay at home? He likes to be at home, but enjoys being together with friends, too.

Is he outgoing or shy? He is in the middle leaning towards the outgoing side!

Does he love his mama? He does and that was a good sign for me because I knew that is how he would treat me!

Would he hang out with you and your friends? He would but he'd probably look for something else to do!

Sing? He has a nice voice, he sang "You are my sunshine" on our first date! He sang in our church choir for a few years.

We took our wedding party to a house next to a covered bridge for some photos. These were my favorite! I carried a bouquet with gardenias, stefanotas and ivy. The wedding reception was held at our church.

We went out for supper (with the children) last night to Macaroni Grille - YUM!! It was actually a combined Anniversary and Father's Day dinner!

I LOVE you T!

Just wanted to share a few things with you about my Mr. Right and our special day. What anniversary are you celebrating this year?

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*:-:¦: Leigh Ann :¦:-:*
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