The Russo Corner

Devin's 5th Bash - Mickey Mouse Style

2011-06-20T00:33:00.000-05:00

Yes, Devin's birthday party was in early April but I was so proud of this party that I had to share!

Devin picked his theme this year and I have to admit that I wasn't thrilled with it at first. When he said Micky Mouse all I could think about was the tacky decorations that you see in the party stores. But thankfully my handy Cricut I was able to come up with some things that I was truly excited about!

This sign welcomed guests as they approached the front door.

The "party room". Devin was sooooo excited for his party to start. He waited in the front room pacing in front of the window. He may get his impatient nature from me...

Party Tip: An easy way to add color to the party is with balloons and

the kids love taking them home at the end of the party...feels like and "extra" favor.

The party table was so fun!

In the center of the table I placed two white circle cut outs, again to resemble Mickey's

shorts, and placed the "centerpieces" on them. I made these using empty puff containers

and spray painted them and then added the Mickey head ribbon in the center. I used my

Cricut to create the "bouquet" portion.

The place settings: I found a cheap pack of red plates with some picnic

products at Wal-Mart and used them as chargers. The Mickey hand plates I found at Target.

How cute are they?!?!?!? For the cups I bought red paper party cups and hot glued two

white circles on each cup to resemble Mickey's shorts.

Some decor I made to hang from the chandelier

The cake "table"


Party Tip: using a table covering on party surfaces adds big impact!

I used a large foam sheet and hot glued on cuts out made with my Cricut.

(i glued the foam sheet to the plastic table shirt)

I decorated a few frames to display some of his pictures.

I made, from scratch, chocolate cupcakes with cookies 'n cream buttercream icing. YUM!

And yes, I made the toppers and wrappers with my Cricut.

And the birthday cake. The baker I usually used wasn't able to do his cake. : (

But the cake we got turned out great. Devin and I came up with the design and I had him color a picture and he took that when we ordered his cake. He felt VERY important.

I made a "Pin The Nose On Mickey" game out of cardboard, spraypaint and Cricut cutouts.

Decorations hanging in the kitchen

Another birthday sign

The food table

Can you tell I love using my Cricut?

PB&Js in the shape of stars, the Mickey head cookie cutter was too big for the bread : (

My pitiful attempt at decorating sugar cookies

Rice Krispy treats in the shapes of stars and Mickey heads, some dipped or drizzled with/in chocolate.

Favor/Memory table. I displayed the scrapbooks that I have made for Devin. (one for each year)

Favor Bags: each filled with a coloring book, crayons, pencils, a watch, silly bands, frisbee...

all were Mickey Mouse themed

The Birthday Boy!

Guests arriving and getting a snack

Look at all those cutie pies!

Time for games! The kids really got into this! I finally had to put an end to this to move the party along. SO glad they enjoyed it!

The pinata was great fun! I made the pinata using a tutorial I found on a blog.

Wish I could remember where... But I think I did too good of a job because we

finally had to take it down and rip it open....oooppps!

Present And Cake Time!!!!!!!

Happy Birthday To You, Happy Birthday To You....

Devin actually started asking people when they were going to leave so he could play with his presents.... We may have to work on those manners a little more.

I still can't believe that Devin is already 5 years old!!!!!! It seems like he was just born

and at the same time I can barely remember what like was like before him. I am so

thankful that God chose me to be his mommy.

When I think back to the day he was born I am flooded with that feeling of overwhelming joy. That day was so surreal... I will NEVER forget holding him in my arms and being completely freaked out and so excited all at once. The love you feel for your children is a love like no other. It is amazing!

Summer Cuts

2011-06-19T15:40:00.000-05:00

It was time for haircuts and it is HOT in Texas so.....why not!? ; )

(I apologize for the quality of the pictures. I took them with

my cell phone and there wasn't great lighting in the kitchen)

Devin can't stop looking at himself in the mirror!

He tells me "Mommy, you did such a good job cutting my hair. I look good"

And of course Corbin, AKA Stinker, has to do whatever big brother does....

He tells me "mommy, good job! like my hair!"

And I couldn't leave out sweet little Westin. Poor thing barely has

any hair on the top of his head but we are determined to make it work.

HELLO! & Westin's 1st

2011-06-18T03:50:00.005-05:00

I have been horrible about keeping up with this blog but I plan on doing better. I probably won't do all my crafty stuff...just pics and stories for family and friends that are out of town.

How crazy is it that Westin is already a year old!!?!??? He isn't a baby anymore. : ( He has such a sweet spirit and he LOVES his mommy! He can jabber an conversation with ya, he is walking REALLY fast, he can keep up with his big brothers and can eat more than them too!

So.....Let's start this off with Westin's 1st birthday party.

I dressed up the buffet as a memory table. I displayed his 1st year scrapbook, a photo book with pictures from his birth day, an imprint of his hand and a collage of the monthly pics I took of him.

I may have crafted a few things for the party...and I may have started crafting in January...

I kept the table pretty simple...

a little something hanging from the light fixture in the kitchen

the favor buckets filled with bath time goodies: a monster duckie,

bubble bath and a BRIGHTLY colored loofah

He was so excited that morning! He knew something special was going on.

The cake "table". I was in love with how adorable this cake was! A good friend's mom made it.

She is a cake genius!

I made cupcake toppers. I put googly eyes EVERYWHERE!

Here is the front of the invitations, made by mommy.

Look at the adorable smash cake she made for him!

Here is the food table. Lots of yummy treats!

the birthday boy's highchair got special attention too!

I told you I put googly eyes everywhere!

Drink Station

Here is the birthday boy again waiting for the party to get going. Isn't he adorable??????!!!!!

Of course Corbin had to get in on the picture taking!

Westin & Daddy, I love this man!!! I think it's hot that he is a good father!

Auntie Jenn & Westin. This September she is giving Westin a cousin to play with!

GG & PaPi with the birthday boy

I got these cute monster masks for the kids to wear. They had a blast with them! They would put them on and run around "ROOOAAARing" at eachother.

He loves his new chair! He actually sat in it the entire time he opened presents!

He got this adorable lawn chair with his name embroidered on it from his friend Rhett.

He wasn't too sure about the cake at first...

but little by little

he got the hang of it

she even colored the inside of his smash cake!

I told you he got the hang of it!

She swirled color in the cake too!

I think he liked it...

time to clean up

The party was so much fun and we appreciate everyone that made it out!

Taking time to create memories is so important!

Chunk-A-Monk

2010-11-12T11:33:00.002-06:00

New products listed on Chunk-A-Monk's blog!

CORRECTION ON GIVEAWAY

2010-11-11T11:09:00.002-06:00

There is a correction to yesterday's post:

You have until Sunday at midnight to vote for Devin's picture to have a chance to win the Christmas picture frame. Get voting!!

Shameful Begging w/a Giveaway (possibly)

2010-11-10T11:16:00.012-06:00

I need some blogland help! I have entered a picture of my oldest in a contest to win a FREE holiday photo shoot for my kids and I need YOU to vote. So, if you are a Facebook member I need you to do the following:

1.Go to Alyssa Maisano Photography http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alyssa-Maisano-Photography/58410544776?ref=ts and "like" her page. ...

2. Go to her Photos tab and look for "Sweetest Kid Holiday Contest 2010" and "like" the picture of Devin blowing out the candle on a cupcake. (pictured above)

3. Go to My Vintage Baby- Roxanne Dresehttp://www.facebook.com/pages/My-Vintage-BabyRoxanne-Drese/130356116975407 and "like" her page.

4. Go to Bella Bowz http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bella-Bowz-Bow-Boutique/119102372652 and "like" her page

Thanks for your help!!!!!!!!! Once you vote leave me a comment letting me know. If we win I will give away this Chunk-A-Monk Christmas frame w/your choice of personalization (Santa's Helpers, a name, saying, etc) You have until ~~TONIGHT~~ FRIDAY EVENING

Family Time

2010-11-09T00:15:00.009-06:00

When I look at these sweet face I could burst with joy!

They are just the cutest things ever!

How can you not smile when you see these sweet faces???

This past Saturday my mom went out of town with her girlfriends and left my poor daddy at home all by himself. ; ) I asked him to come out and spend the day with us. We had plans to go to a fall festival but that fell thru.....so we went to a local park instead.

the boys looooove the ducks!
I had the boys wearing the new shirts I made them

they looked so cute in them!

Westin loves to be outside!

I love this baby!!!!!!

Corbin is such a little dare devil, he has NO fear

Devin was too excited about going down the slide to look at the camera

sittin on PaPi's lap watching his brothers

I swear Corbin went down this slide like 100 times!

CHEESE!

Corbin refused to WALK up the stairs...

Corbin on the slide....again...

It melts my heart to see my daddy with my boys...

see-saw time

SO CUTE!

They play so good together...does this mamma's heart good!

The park has these cool swings...I think the boys liked them. ; )

I mean, they REALLY liked these swings!

Corbin was so funny, he kept sliding down to hold on and then he would laugh so hard. A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E!

Sweet Westin was still so excited, watching his big brothers.

Corbin is so sweet with Westin. He is always so concerned about Westin and wants to play with him constantly

These two are trouble! ; )

After the park we headed home to watch the Nebraska football game and grill fajitas. It was such a good day! We so enjoyed having PaPi here the entire day! (Devin tried to talk PaPi into spending the night in his room) You can come hang out with us anytime mom leaves you home alone dad. ; )

Christmas Crafts from Chunk-A-Monk

2010-11-08T15:30:00.001-06:00

Santa Door Hanger $8

Dear Santa Door Hanger - $8

Santa 5x7 Picture Frame - $18

Pink Santa Burp Cloth - $8

Red Santa Burp Cloth - $8

Family Photos

2010-11-01T00:58:00.009-05:00

We had family pictures taken a few weeks ago and I got the proofs today. I am SO excited to share a ~~million~~ few of my favorites!

Enjoy!

Gobble Gobble

2010-10-30T23:40:00.001-05:00

This momma is already crafting for Thanksgiving!

My mom recently gave me an old sewing machine that embroiders, so I tried it out. Just a simple"W" on a burp cloth for Westin.

I made matching shirts for the boys using homemade appliques. They turned out so cute and will look great on the next memory blankets I make for them! (sorry, not a great pic)
Joe and I took Devin and Corbin to dinner and a movie this evening. They did great, as usual. We saw Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole. It was actually pretty good, it would have been super cool in 3D.

Fall Festival Fun

2010-10-29T00:18:00.011-05:00

Tuesday evening Joe and I took the boys to a local church's fall festival. We went to the same fall festival last year and had such a good time. There was quit a line to get in but the boys kept us entertained...

As usual Westin was chewing on something...

Seriously, how cute is he?!!

Devin was so excited!

Corbin can't stand to wait in lines. (I wonder where he gets that from?) He kept telling us "GO! GO! GO!"

"CANDY!"

"CHEESE!" I have no idea what he is doing, he is such a goof!

My mom decided to come out, she was on "Westin Duty" so Joe and I could do all the activities with Devin and Corbin. Do you see that SWEET smile on Westin's face? He loves me!

Here is Devin and Evan, they are BFFs!

My Mario was sooooo cute!

Luigi, eating more candy...

Devin is such a good big brother! (and Corbin loves how much his brother dotes on him!)

My girlfriend, Missy, and her son, Evan, met us there. Corbin was fascinated with his costume.

They had a ton of carnival games for the kids to play

Corbin had a mini meltdown...all of the sugar he consumed may have had something to do with that... He has the cutest pouty lip when he cries!

(do you see how thrilled Joe looks)

Go Devin!

Go Corbin!

Snow White was handing out candy

So was Cinderella

Westin PASSED out. Such a sweet baby.

Evan is such a cutie!

Missy and Evan, we are so glad they were able to come with us!

GG insisted on stopping for a picture

Joe is such an amazing father. It is so HOT that he is a good dad!

Baby boy woke up and was ready to go!

The boys rode the swings, you can't really tell from this pic but Devin was holding Corbin's hand so he wouldn't be scared. So sweet!

They had a blast!

Corbin just slouched down in the corner and giggled the entire ride.

Time to go home...

We had such a good time and look forward to next year's festival!

Happy 1/2 Birthday!

2010-10-28T08:00:00.001-05:00

I am a few days behind on posting....Monday was Westin's 6 month birthday! I can hardly believe how fast time has flown by since his arrival.
He has brought so much joy to our lives! He cut his first tooth on the 21st of this month. He has been more than a little fussy but nothing that hugs and kisses from momma can't cure.

He almost has sitting up mastered....he wobbles from side to side still, so cute!

He started crawling this week! We are in trouble for sure! He roils around and scoots faster than he crawls but that will change soon enough!

His laugh is CONTAGIOUS! And he does it constantly.

He has been sleeping through the night since about
month 2, with the exception of this past week because of teething.

He loves to watch his brothers play and is itchin to join in.

Happy 1/2 Birthday Westin, we love you!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-27T14:00:00.002-05:00

Super Mario Bros. Halloween

2010-10-25T15:31:00.006-05:00

Costumes are done! When I set out to make costumes this year I fully intended to "make" every part of them. I came across a picture online of some kids in jean overalls as part of their costume and I loved it! I think that it looks more modern and much more put together this way. The ONLY place I could find long sleeve shirts in red and green was Land's End website. The shirts were $8.50 a piece and I plan on doing some sort of Christmas applique on them after Halloween. The overalls were a pain to find! Corbin's were easy, you can find size 2T anywhere but 4T, for Devin, were another story! I finally found them on Ebay, I like that they are a different color than Corbin's just like the real Mario and Luigi.

I didn't have a pattern for a hat so I had to make one. They took me about an hour a piece to make.

They look adorable on them!

To cover up the button hooks, and to add a cartoon feel, I cut out circles of stiff felt and attached them with large safety pins. After Halloween I am going to sell the overalls to a kids secondhand store so I didn't want to permanently attach anything them.

And here is little Westin's Toadstool costume. I bought him a white long sleeve onsie and white pants. Again, I am going to decorate them somehow for Christmas or Thanksgiving to get use out of them.

The jacket is made out of Fleece, I didn't even finish off the edges. The yellow trim is double fold bias tape that I sewed on.

This hat is PRECIOUS on him!!!!!! I didn't have a pattern for this hat either. I cut a large circle of white fleece and hand sewed 5 smaller red circles onto it. To make the band I measured his head and cut that length from the edge of the fleece so that there is the factory edge. This way I didn't have to use elastic to "synch" it. (Kids never leave on hats that have elastic in them!) Super simple!

I love their goody boxes! For these I got cardboard shipping boxes, taped the bottom like I would normally and cut off the top folds.

I think the pictures are pretty self explanatory on what I did. Foam sheets are awesome!!!!!

I didn't take a picture of it but I covered the very bottom of them with yellow duct tape to help protect them in case the kids set them down on something sticky or wet.

I wanted the boys to be able to tell whose was whose, because we all know how the "That's mine" game works. I covered the bottom of the inside with green and red, to match their costumes. (I also attached a piece of ribbon for a handle to match their costumes) Around the sides I covered it in black fleece, again to try and protect the cardboard. They are going to be using these on three different evenings so they can't fall apart on them the first night.

I am so pleased with how they turned out and can't wait to post pictures of them wearing them tomorrow evening!

Can you guess?

2010-10-24T23:05:00.004-05:00

Halloween costumes are almost done! Can you guess what the boys are going to be????????

I remember when Super Mario Bros came out! Does that make me old? My parents got it for me and my sister for Christmas and we played it so much that we got blisters on our thumbs.

Devin is going to be Mario, Corbin will be Luigi and Westin the Toadstool. The boys are going to be ssssssoooooooooo cute in their costumes!!!

Show Us Your Life-Westin's Nursery

2010-10-21T23:28:00.012-05:00

I am finally getting around to posting pictures of Westin's nursery. I loooooovvve his nursery and joing in on Kelly's Show Us Your Life - Nursery Edition.

Here is his dresser/changing table. I don't do" traditional" nursery furniture, most of it is such a waste. For the theme I went whith red, white, khaki and blues with a touch of "vintage" toy vehicles.

A sweet friend made this for me, I added the fabric on the back so it would show up well on the wall.

I found this rustic wagon at Hobby Lobby and it works great for his toiletries.

This lamp was in Devin's room before I got him a new lamp and it works great here! I made the wipe case to match the nursery. I used the pictures from Westin's newborn photos as decor all over the room.

Here is where I snuggle my sweet boy. This rocker was in all three boys nurseries, I bought it a neutral color so I could use it for future children. The ottoman was from Target and was the inspiration for the entire room.

This lamp is another Hobby Lobby find. Isn't it SO perfect here!?! See that striped frame...I got it at Big Lots for $3!!!! I can't resist a good bargain!

I made the book end out of blocks and hot glue.

I got the rug on clearance on Pottery Barn's website for $35!!!!! Can you even believe what a deal I got???

My sister made him a special stool as a gift for his Dedication.

I painted his name. I bought 8x10 flat canvas panels and put them in plain wood frames that I painted white.

I am obsessed with personalizing everything!

My mom made the bedding, she did an awesome job!

This might be my fav nook of the room

I made the pin board, the "westin" frame and the lamp shade. The picture is of Westin laying on the quilt my mom made him and Joe's wedding band on his belly.

I got the wagon wheels on Etsy, love me some Etsy finds!

The sign above his closet door says "I Am Wonderfully Made"

Another Etsy purchase, I could have made it but I was too pregnant!

I actually cried when I found this vinyl lettering! I thought it was perfect for a nursery. The birth announcement plaque is yet another Etsy purchase.

Thanks for stopping by!

I Cheated!

2010-10-20T21:42:00.004-05:00

The boys have been asking to make cupcakes and I felt a little lazy...so I cheated and pulled out the Pillsbury. Don't judge, you know you do it too.

I couldn't resist the cute cupcake wrappers from Target!

they get a kick out of watching the mixer

they love to help

or just to watch : )

time to bake

After dinner I let them decorate their own cupcakes

Mr. Serious took his time

while big brother was chowin down!

he loved every bite!

yum!

My love, aka my 4th child, even decorated his own.

(I'm sure he will love me so much for posting this picture. Jeremy, don't give him too hard of a time!)

I am starting to feel better...I hope this "yuck" doesn't last much longer, I am ready to get back to life! I don't know how I would have gotten thru these past few days with out all of Joe's help with the boys and chores around the house! I have the best husband EVER!!!!!!!!!!!

Last Night

2010-10-20T07:01:00.002-05:00

I love these boys SO much!

I love their giggles

I love their smiles

I love the way they play together!
I love that they love each other!

I really can not put into words how much I love these three little boys... Before we had kids I knew that I would love our future children but nothing could prepare me for HOW MUCH I would love them! I will never forget the first moments of each of their lives...the sounds of their first cry, they way my heart felt like it would explode with love, they way the everything stood still the first time I saw them, the way it felt to hold and kiss them for the first time... Each one of them is such a blessing!

Painting Pumpkins With My Pumpkins

2010-10-19T18:30:00.009-05:00

I have felt pretty awful the past few days and I feel like I have done n0thing but lay in bed...I hate feeling this way! I'm not sure if it is just allergies/sinus issues or the flu... Either way this evening I pulled myself out of bed and decided Devin and Corbin needed some mommy time. When we went to the pumpkin patch last week we picked up two mini pumpkins for the boys to paint.

They have just been sitting in this bowl on the kitchen table....so...beofre I start any craft I have to wrangle up little Westin to make sure he is nice and busy so we don't have to stop and start our project...
Isn't he just adorable!?!?!!!!!!

I put down wax paper over their work areas and used painters tape to affix it to the table.

We put on our "paint shirts" aka under shirts daddy had bought for Devin in the wrrroooong size. ; )

Devin picked his colors: brown, yellow and his favorite color blue

Corbin picked his: green, black and white

Corbin took this project SUPER seriously! He didn't talk the entire time.

Devin wanted to paint a rainbow but DID NOT want any assistance from mom...I guess the "mom, you are cramping my style" is already starting... : (

a close up of Devin's so far...

and here is Corbin's...

I told you he was taking this seriously.

he was concentrating on his "technique"

Devin explained e-v-e-r-y step

"uh...what the heck happened to Corbin's face", you may ask...I have no idea! I swear I didn't leave his side! I don't have a clue how it got all over him. This is when we packed it up and headed to the bath tub!

~DRUM ROLL~

Here is Devin's finish pumpkin

And here is Corbin's finished pumpkin

This took e-v-e-r-y s-i-n-g-l-e o-u-n-c-e of energy I had but was well worth it. I love spending time with my boys. The simple moments are the moments we cherish!

Family Outing - Picture Day

2010-10-17T15:16:00.006-05:00

Today we went down to the Ft. Worth Stockyards for family pictures. I am in love with the Stockyards! I love the history, the old buildings and the warm rustic feeling. The photographer was running behind with her previous appointment so we took some time to show the boys around.

Last night Corbin fell in the play room and scratched his face up good...go figure! I gave the photographer free reign of photoshopping his pics!

I spent the past month trying to figure out our outfits for today.

I really like dressing the boys like little men. They were so handsome!

Westin was PERFECTly behaved!

Devin loves to show off!

Daddy showed Corbin the horses, he loves "orsies".

Still being a good boy...

There are tons of little "drugstore rides".

I don't think they have ever been on anything like these.

Corbin was too cute, he held on for dear life!

Onto the next ride...

They really enjoyed it!

We happened to be right in front of the cattle drive...

They couldn't believe that there were animals in the street!

We had to wait a good 45 minutes for the photographer and the boys were tired of walking around...

So we sat outside one the restaurants to give the boys a snack and try to occupy them.

Corbin was playing with the camera and took these two pictures of Devin.

He did a pretty good job!

All the while Westin just sat in his car seat looking around.

The photographer got some great shots of the boys, I can hardly wait to see them! We went to lunch after the session and we made it all the way home before anyone had a meltdown! I am so proud of my boys for being ssssooooooo well behaved today, I was certain that one of them wouldn't make it.

Now all three are taking a nap and I am going to take the opportunity to prop my feet up for a bit

Seals are yummy!

2010-10-16T13:55:00.004-05:00

Westin is chewing and slobbering on EVERYTHING!

He loves to sit and play in his exersaucer...

See that sweet smile!?

But the seal is his FAVORITE part of the exersaucer!

He gnaws on it like there is no tomorrow!

You would think it had a flavor or something...

It really is quit comical to watch him...

But I think everything he does is adorable...

I can't believe he can get that whole thing in his mouth!!!

I hope he cuts this tooth soon...

I'm not sure the seal can take much more.

Family Outing - Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-14T16:43:00.010-05:00

Joe took the afternoon off and we packed up the boys for a family outing. It feels like it's been forever since we spent the day out as a family! The boys were so excited and Devin was convinced that this was a Fall Festival so he was looking for the candy. He is such a goof!

Westin just woke up, I love his sleepy eyes!

The boys totally dig WALL-E!

Nemo! Corbin watches this at least twice a week.

Do you see the attitude in this picture?! I wonder who he gets that from....? : )

UP! UP! UP!

Devin is a total Toy Story fanatic!

I love all those big beautiful brown eyes!

This was a hoot! Devin was trying with all of his might to pull Corbin in the wagon...meanwhile, Corbin was screaming NO!

Devin and Corbin went in the kids only maze and it lasted about 2 minutes.

I wanted to take some cute pictures of Westin but it was so dusty and dirty I didn't want to take him out much.

My Little Pumpkin! Sooooo sweet!

I love watching Joe with the boys. I think it's hot that he is a good dad!

"No More Pictures Mom!"

I wanted so desperately to get a cute picture of them looking thru these openings....oh well, maybe next year.

I do not like this picture of me but I never get any pictures of mew with the kids, I am always behind the camera.

Then we had a few minutes of chase...

Westin is such a happy baby!

He can't get enough of those straps!

Doesn't that smile just melt your heart...

Time to go home for naps...

Devin made it about 10 minutes and he was OUT!

It is never easy getting out with three kids but it is definitely worth it! I never pass up an opportunity to make new memories with my family!

Field Trip - Fire Station

2010-10-13T11:13:00.007-05:00

This morning Devin's class took a field trip to a local fire station. Joe and I were able to work it out for me to leave Westin and Corbin at home with him so I was able to tag along with Devin's class. I was SO SUPER excited to go! (probably way more excited than Devin!) My mom was always involved with my school activities growing up and I loved it. It made me feel special. I can't wait to be a PTA & homeroom mom!!!!

The firefighters were all so sweet with the kids.

They gave the kids a tour of the station starting with the kitchen, which I didn't take a picture of...

The kids thought the TV room was awesome. What a nice place for the guys to relax and have some down time!

He showed the kids the "homework" room and schedule board.

Where they do the laundry...

The sleeping quarters...

And then the cool stuff!

The station had 4 trucks on site.

I was impressed with how crisp and clean everything was! They should start a side business cleaning houses! ; )

They got to look inside...

My cutie pie!

I love him so much!

They also got to climb inside the big truck.

CHEESE!

Look at equipment and talk about fire safety.

Of course Devin had something to add to the conversation.

The kids got such a kick out of the pole!

He showed the kids how the pole/chute door works.

Devin tried his darnedest to get the chute door to open!

The "Boss" Car

Back outside...

They were shown the full gear.

And were given their own souvenir hats!

He appeased mommy and stood by the statue for a picture.

I am so thankful that Joe's job allows us the flexibility for me to be able and do these special things with the boys!

It was such a fun experience to watch Devin interact with his classmates. He has matured so much since the school year has started. I am a proud momma!!!!!

My Crazy Kids

2010-10-11T21:34:00.004-05:00

The other night my parents had us over for Joe's birthday. Mom made fajitas, homemade hot sauce and queso...YUM! My mom started nursing school this fall and her schedule is crazy busy so we don't get to see them very much as of lately. I miss my momma!

Our kids are king at their home so naturally they act like they are members of "the goof troop" the entire time.

Here is the proof:
Corbin thinks it is so funny to get in Westin's car seat!

For The Man I Love...

2010-10-10T20:11:00.018-05:00

Yesterday I threw a backyard bash for Joe's 31st birthday. Joe ~~begged~~ asked me to keep the crafty party decor to a minimum. He knows how much

I love to plan a party, but he is a no frills kind of guy. We celebrated in the back yard and grilled burgers and hot dogs. It was a perfect evening, with perfect weather!

I wanted it to be casual, relaxed & goody filled evening.

I will find any excuse to make decorated sugar cookies!

And who doesn't love oatmeal raisin & candy cookies?!?!

Popcorn Anyone???

The grill area

The "manly" party area. I rented tables and chairs from a local party rental place, it was awesome to have them all delivered and picked up, I love efficient service!

I used battery powered tea lights all over the tables.

I love flowers and think every occasion calls for them!

Corbin played with the ice in the drink bucket all night. (I put yellow duct tape on the drink cans so everyone could write their names on them...but it didn't work so well once they were wet...)

Devin & Eden

Corbin, Rhett & Devin...Some good lookin boys! ; )

The kids played on the swing set ALL EVENING! These are some good kids! They all played so well together, it warms my heart to watch them play.

Rhett & Corbin ate a few cookies...

Westin had to go and take a nap, parties are hard work.

I love their giggles!!!!

Time to eat!

A picture to prove there was more than kids at the party. The kids are so much more fun to take pictures of! : )

Sweet Gabriella & Gianna

What, you don't think it is fun to throw popcorn on the ground?

Happy Birthday My Love!

PaPi's arms are so cuddly

We attempted to get a group picture of some of the kids.

You know how that goes...

The lights that we strung over the yard gave off the perfect amount of light.

Devin & Evan saying goodbye and were working out their handshake

Joe, I hope you enjoyed the party. You are a man that doesn't care for the spotlight and don't like people to make a fuss over you...but sometimes you deserve to be fussed over. I love you more than I have ever loved anyone and you make me feel more loved than I have ever felt. You are my soul mate! I thank God for you everyday. I love that I see you every time I look at our boys! I love that you put me and the boys before everything and everyone else. I love you're strength, you're integrity, you are a faithful friend and partner, you don't let your pride cloud your judgement, you are an amazing example for our children...I am so incredibly proud to call you my husband. Happy 31st Birthday Love!

Quality Time With Cookies & A Movie

2010-10-07T12:29:00.005-05:00

My babies are growing up way too fast.

I was chatting with my mom last night, telling her how blessed I feel.

I have three beautiful, happy & healthy children.

My mom use to , jokingly, tell me that I was stingy with my kids because I hardly let anyone else watch them.

I just don't want to miss a second with them!

I want them to grow up KNOWING how much I love them.

And remembering that I made the effort and took the time to have special moments with them.

We only have one chance to be a good parent.

I learned of a couple that lost their newborn recently... I don't know them personally but my heart aches for them. We can't know God's plans for the future or even understand them... So I will celebrate the three amazing blessings that God has given us and be super stingy with them! ; )

First Cereal

2010-09-30T08:02:00.006-05:00

Since Westin is in the 90th percentile his pediatrician had said that we didn't have to start him on cereal or baby foods until 6 months. But...somebody has been waking up in the middle of the night wanting a snack so Monday evening I decided it was time for Westin to have his first cereal.

Look how cute he is waiting for mommy to feed him!

Curious about what this is...
(don't pay attention to the dirty dishes in the sink)

Not too sure about what this stuff is.

His whole body would shiver after every bite. He just might have thought it was yuck...

Yep, he definitely thought it was yuck!

But he did eat it all with out fussing, such a good baby boy.

Russo, Table of 5

2010-09-29T11:24:00.004-05:00

A week ago Monday was my brother-in-laws birthday. My sister, Jennifer, invited us to meet them for dinner at a restaurant to celebrate. We had never been out to dinner with all three kids...we were a little apprehensive about it... Corbin is more than a hand full and doesn't care to be still for long and I am still nursing Westin. We knew that it would be work but really wanted to help Christopher celebrate his birthday...

It started out great! Devin was chattin with his Auntie Jenn..

Corbin was chowin on chips and keeping us laughing...

Westin was content...

But the waitress was slow so we had to pull out something to do...

It seemed to work...

And then it happened...

As soon as the food came out Westin lost it! I headed to the ladies room to nurse him, which is quit hard standing up in a toilet stall.. Restaurants and most stores ARE NOT friendly to the nursing mother.

So I got Westin fed and changed and I finally got to sit down and eat, my now cold food, and Corbin looses it... Thankfully we were seated on the patio and nobody else was. (Not that I am too concerned with what other people think) But we did learn a valuable lesson.

~DO NOT take 3 children under the age of 5 out to eat! ~

Hope you enjoyed your birthday Christopher, bet you didn't think you were going to get a show with your dinner. ; )

5 Months Old

2010-09-28T10:38:00.005-05:00

Saturday Westin turned 5 months old...

This little guy has the entire family wrapped around his chubby little fingers...
He loves his feet...
He loves to play...

He loves to sleep...
He loves to giggle...
He adores his daddy...

He loves to scoot around on the floor...

And we love that he is all our's!!!!!!

Party Time - Ratatouille Style

2010-09-27T13:16:00.028-05:00

-WARNING-

Picture Overload

As birthdays draw near I try to come up with a theme that the kids, and birthday boy, will enjoy. This year was easy to decided! Corbin watches Ratatouille at least 8 times a week and I had a million ideas of cute party decor and favors! Crafting for this party started in early August. I like to take my time preparing for birthdays so I don't feel overwhelmed and start throwing things together at the last minute.

My first craft for the party was Gusteau. I found an image of him online, printed it out in black & white, cut him out, used a black marker to darken the outline and colored him with crayons. I hung this one from the light fixture .

I did the same with this one, I just printed it out a bit larger and hung it from a candle holder on the wall with thick white thread.

For Rhemy I free handed him and unfortunately you can tell...but you get the idea of who it suppose to be.

Then I needed to come up with "food" to create a restaurant feel for the buffet table. I headed to Hobby Lobby for foam blocks, wheels, balls and sheets!

I made a lasagna...

a pizza...

pasta (yarn) with meatballs...

and a "bouquet" of food and chef items

A view of the entire buffet table

Next was the little items, the special touches for here and there.

Wooden spoons and "birthday" cookie cutters hung from the chandelier.

A pin board displaying pictures of Corbin from the past year.

Another "bouquet" and a birthday sign atop the armouir...

The Paris skyline... This took forever and a day!!!!

A menu "chalkboard" covering the framed mirror. I used a piece of black fabric and a white paint marker.

A sign and balloons welcoming the guests by the front door.

An overview of the party table.

Another view of the party table

A close up of a place setting at the party table...

The chef hat and aprons I got for all of the kiddos

And now the food table!

Our "fish" of the day. hehe

Get a load of this cake! I had a girlfriend's mom make it. It was sssoooo cute, pictures just don't do it justice and it tasted A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!

The "cheese" and "bread" were both cakes and the rat was made of rice krispie treats. Janelda, you rock!!!!!

The day of the party Corbin AND Devin could hardly contain themselves! They were bouncing off of the walls in anticipation.

We were trying very hard to get a good birthday picture....

but those of you with boys understand how impossible this can be...

We cleared out the couch and side table to make room for chair s to be are the perimeter of the room so the adults could watch the party action.

And now for the party fun!

How cute is he in his little chef gear?!?!?!?!!!
Ms Eden

Sweet sisters! Gabriella & Gianna

Natalie & Eden

Emerson, Corbin's lady friend, was sick but her mommy was so sweet to bring a gift for her.

He is such a little stinker!

I took a few pictures of the birthday boy...I am a proud momma!

He had so much fun opening all his gifts.

We are blessed to have such generous friends and family.

"Happy Birthday To You" He really enjoyed us signing to him!

Then he played "how many uitensils can you stick in the cake" and big brother helped out...

Devin is such a goof!

Giving Natalie a high-5

giving Eden a hug bye-bye

Rhett, Devin & Corbin playin...just like their dad's did when they were kids!

OH NO! T-Rex is attacking Paris.... haha

Thanks to all of our friends and family for helping us celebrate Corbin's birthday!

Happy 2nd Birthday Corbin!

2010-09-25T11:41:00.000-05:00

I am in awe of my little man! He is FUNNY, too smart for his own good, quit the dare devil, outgoing, super sweet, a good big brother to Westin, a pestering little brother to Devin, he is sssoooooo cute, ADORES his daddy, loves his mommy...he makes us so proud!

It seems unreal that he is already 2. I look at little Westin and think "this should be Corbin". I don't know how time goes by faster the older I get but I wish it would SLOW down!

Corbin's nicknames are "Frank the Tank" and "Godzilla"... He LOVES to destroy everything in his path, especially anything his brother is playing with! (I try not to laugh but really is hilarious to hear Corbin's giggles of delight as he tramples all over Devin's projects)

Corbin's actual birthday was this past Friday and since his party wasn't until the next day we decided to have a celebration after dinner with just the 5 of us at home.

(of course big brother had to put the birthday hat on too)

He loves Cookie Monster! He will randomly yell out "COOKIEEEEEE, NUM NUM NUM" and pretend like he is gobbling up a cookie. So....we picked up a cute Cookie Monster cake from Kroger.

He was so excited!

He had a little trouble blowing the candle out...

Big brother came to the rescue.

We decided to save his white Polo and take it off to eat the very BLUE cake!

The boys thought it was so funny that our mouths were blue.

Do you think he liked the cake?

He kept telling me "yucky hands"

My blue boys!

Lately

2010-09-07T22:26:00.009-05:00

Westin had his 4 month well visit last Friday and he is thriving!!!! He is in the 89th percentile for his weight and that makes mommy happy! Westin is the only one of my children that I have been able to exclusively nurse.

It is such an amazing feeling to know that I have everything he needs. Our pediatrician has such a tender heart, always has kind words and truly cares for our boys! I always leave her office feeling like mom of the year!

Today was picture day at school for Devin. I tried desperately to get a good picture of him in his new outfit but it was raining outside and the light in the house was horrible.

Devin is adjusting well to school. This is his first time away from home(me) during the week and we were concerned that he would A-turn into a monster for his teacher or B-hate it. His teacher is so sweet and has been working to help him get adjusted to the classroom setting. She says that he WILL be prepared for Kindergarten next year. Devin is soaking up everything Mrs. April is presenting in the classroom. We feel so blessed that Devin was placed in her class!

Devin and Corbin giving goodbye hugs. Moments like these make my heart happy!

Corbin is totally digging Devin being at school! He gets ALL the toys to himself! Lately Corbin is very interested in big boy underpants and is always trying to get Devin's out of his drawer... Today when I got Corbin out of his room after nap time this is what I found

He is always the funny man!

And speaking of funny...

He thinks he is so cleaver when he does this!

This evening when we were getting the boys settled into bed, Joe put Westin up on Devin's bed with him...

Seriously...How cute are they!?!

Hello!

2010-09-03T00:28:00.013-05:00

It's been a while since I posted but I'm back. Having three children under the age of 5 takes up quit a bit of my time. ; ) Westin is now 4 months old and we are finally settled into a routine. Little Westin is such a blessing! He is always so happy!

(1 Month Old)

(2 Months Old)
(3 Months Old)

(4 Months Old)

Corbin and Devin adore their new little brother. Corbin loves to use Westin as an anatomy doll, point out his ears, eyes, toes, etc. Westin eats up the attention!

Devin started school, mother's day out, last week. He is doing great and is really enjoying the lessons and interacting with other kids his age. It has also helped Devin learn to share and is carrying over to his play time with Corbin.

Last month we had Westin dedicated at our home with family and friends. It was such a special day and we were so thankful for my childhood pastor and his wife coming to our home and sharing this day with us!

We have had quit a hot summer and spent most of our time indoors but the boys have had their share of fun playing in the water outside. Here are a few pics of the boys just because I think they are cute! Enjoy!
Corbin is turning into such a little boy!

Westin is always laughing!

Corbin playing with "Kevin" before bed

Devin was picking out what stuffed animal would sleep with him

Devin hanging out with Westin while Westin was sick

sooo sweet!

{sigh}

They are two peas in a pod!

This picture IS Corbin!

Westin King Russo

2010-04-28T17:54:00.006-05:00

I am thrilled to announce that Westin has made his grand entrance into the world! He was born on Sunday at 8:24 pm, weighing 8 pounds and measuring 20 inches long. He is perfection!!! We came home yesterday afternoon and Devin and Corbin both welcomed him with "open arms". We feel so blessed that he arrived safely and healthy! God is good!!!

What I Have Been Up To...

2010-03-26T16:28:00.005-05:00

I have been a TIRED and busy momma! This third child is taking EVERYTHING out of me. Westin is going to be a big boy and I have NO physical or mental strength left so blogging hasn't been a priority at all!

This is what I do make time for...

The other night after bath time we had "reading" time. Devin and Corbin love their books and I love watching them!

Devin read alone...

Corbin read alone...

They read together...

They read next to each other...

They "discussed" the books...

And then it was time to clean up...

I love our sweet boys and am so excited for them to meet their little brother Westin!!!

Westin's Due Date.....

2010-03-23T17:34:00.003-05:00

Looks like baby Westin will be coming before May 6th...we now have a due date of April 29th! We are doing a sono in 3 weeks to get his measurements and we may go even earlier!!!!!!

So I have, AT THE MOST, 37 days until he is here!!!!!!

(YES, I am freaking out)

Let the nesting begin!

Chunk-A-Monk

2010-03-10T15:04:00.002-06:00

Check Out My Latest Custom Orders HERE

Cleaning Out Corbin's Nursery

2010-03-07T16:03:00.008-06:00

It's time... We are getting the bunk beds in the next week or so and it is time to start clearing out the nursery decor so we can prepare for little Westin's arrival. I have decided to sell most of the decor and am keeping only the sentimental pieces. So make me an offer! Send it to therussocorner@gmail.com. Everything BUT the bedding & the rug will have a $6 shipping fee. The rug and bedding will be figured by zip code and weight. All payments must be made thru Paypal.

SOLD
~~Item #1 - Alphabet Box~~

SOLD

Item #2 - Baby Bedding (bumper, sheet and skirt)

SOLD

Item #3 - Wooden Elephant

Item #4 - 16 x 20 Artwork

Item #5 - Mobile (w/out "Skeleton")

SOLD

Item #6 - 12 drawer pulls

SOLD

Item #7 - 15 x 20 Pin board (back is unfinished)

SOLD

Item #8 - 7.5 x 5.5 Wooden Plaque

SOLD

Item #9 - Nursery Wipe Box

Party Girls!

2010-02-25T17:53:00.004-06:00

This past Monday some girlfriends and I threw a small surprise party for a friend. Alycia and her family moved here from out of state last year and they are such a joy to be around!

So anywho...she totally tried to plan her own 80s themed birthday bash but we got a hold of her husband and took over that nonsense! Nobody is allowed to plan their own birthday party!

Do you think she was surprised?!?

Darla had her dinning room all decorated, made a yummy dinner AND baked a cake for the birthday girl!

Alycia's husband secretly packed a bag with her 80s getup and snuck it to our friend Ashlie. Alycia totally looked like something straight out of The Breakfast Club!!!
All of us girls
Happy Birthday Alycia!

We had such a good time and laughed so much! You girls bring so much joy to my life, love you bunches!

Vaelntine's Day Fun

2010-02-14T22:19:00.001-06:00

As a kid my mom ALWAYS made a production of Valentine's Day for us kids... Joe and I don't make a fuss of the day for ourselves but our boys are a different story! I love to throw a fuss over the boys and since they aren't in school to participate in any holiday parties I decided to throw a Valentine's Playdate for the boys.

I setup the front room for the kids to enjoy their goodies.

They all had "assigned" seating

Some of the decorations...

The snack table...all of the mom's brought goodies to share..

I made these cookies for the kiddos

Drink station...

Corbin, Natalie and Gianna didn't waste any time getting into the snacks!

Devin and Natalie talkin about something...looks important ; )

All the kids were in AWE of sweet baby Kinley!

Eden and Natalie

Devin and Corbin

Gianna and Gabriella

Kinley

Corbin loves Eden!

My Valentines!!!!!

The kiddos, minus Natalie

(I think Devin ad Corbin have plenty of cutie pies around them!)

Thanks to all the girls for bringing the kids out today. Love you gals!

THE BEST COOKIES EVER!!!!!!

2010-02-10T22:32:00.002-06:00

Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies

-4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
-4 teaspoons baking soda
-2 cups butter, softened
-1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
-½ tspn salt
-1/2 cup white sugar
-2 (3.4 ounce) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
-4 eggs
-2 tbs vanilla extract
-4 cups semisweet chocolate chips
-2 cups chopped walnuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Sift together the flour and baking soda, set aside.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Beat in the instant pudding mix until blended. Stir in the eggs and vanilla. Blend in the flour mixture. Finally, stir in the chocolate chips and nuts. Drop cookies by rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven. Edges should be golden brown

Front Door Decor

2010-02-08T15:14:00.005-06:00

If you visit our home between now and Valentine's Day you will be greeted warmly by my latest craft project. I only needed canvas, a wooden dowel, ribbon and acrylic paint. It was a fun project! It didn't turn out exactly as I envisioned but Devin told me it was "awesome" so I figure it doesn't look that bad. ; )
I am still not feeling so great, dealing with sinus and allergy "gunk" is no fun! I have been doing breathing treatments once a day to keep it from settling in my lungs. I am even having to miss craft night tonight. : ( I have been out of the house ONCE since Tuesday of last week and I am gettin antsy! The one time I left the house was to go to IHOP on Saturday morning with Joe and the boys...Corbin was hilarious! He devoured his breakfast! So I leave you today with pictures of Saturday breakfast.

Valentine's Day Crafting

2010-02-05T18:08:00.005-06:00

The boys and I have been busy crafting some Valentine "cheer". I have been feeling a little under the weather for a few days so I haven't left the house and I have needed to be distracted.

I am looking forward to reveling all of my Valentine "cheer"!

More Inspiration...

2010-02-04T12:26:00.004-06:00

I have decided to go with a subtle "theme" for the nursery. I am adding in specks of vintage planes, cars, motorcycles, etc. I have my eye on a few items but I want to make sure everything is perfect!

Nursery Letters

2010-02-01T15:06:00.004-06:00

I DID IT!!!!

I was so nervous about making the letters for Westin's room but I actually did it! I am going to seal them tonight and I will officially be done.

I love them!!!!!

More Nursery

2010-01-25T16:30:00.004-06:00

I have nursery decor on the brain!!!!!!! Now that I have found fabric for the bedding I need to pin point the "theme". I am considering doing vintage cars, planes, boats, trains...not sure. I will have to find the "perfect" pieces to choose the theme.

I painted some frames Saturday and I still need to touch them up and clear coat them but here they are.

Here are the fabrics I found on Saturday

I found the fabrics for the window covering, sheet, the bed skirt and throw pillows

And lastly... I found this rug on clearance!!!

I am so excited to get everything put together but that will have to wait until we get bunk beds and move Corbin into Devin's room... We have already installed shelving and additional clothes rack in Devin's closet and moved all of Corbin's clothes in there. I really think the boys will enjoy sharing a room, they are always excited to get ready together and to sit in Devin's room "reading" books together.

Inspiration For Westin's Nursery

2010-01-23T22:19:00.003-06:00

I was at Target the other day and I found this ottoman and it gave me inspiration to make Westin's bedding. (I probably should have bought it...) I never thought I would choose these colors for his nursery but I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!

We went and picked out most of the fabrics for the bedding today and I can hardly wait to get started on it! I came home and immediately started painting picture frames! (pictures to come soon)

Perspective

2010-01-19T00:04:00.001-06:00

I read this today...

"life is not about waiting for the storm to pass but instead learning to dance in the rain"

AMEN!

Baby Shower Gifts

2010-01-16T17:25:00.005-06:00

I attended a girlfriends baby shower today and it was perfection! The hostesses did a fantastic job!

Of course I had to do something crafty for my gift...

So I made a ragamuffin garland...

I love the colors. The momma has decorated her little girl's room perfectly!

This might just be the cutest picture frame ever!

And lastly...the step stool

ADORE

THIS

STOOL!!!

I hope everything goes perfectly in sweet little Kinley's room! Congratulations Darla & Jody!

Chipmunk Date

2010-01-15T22:24:00.010-06:00

This evening me and a girlfriend, Ashlie, took our kiddos to see "The Chipmunks". Devin has been BEGGING us to buy him a "chipmunk ticket" for weeks!!! I made the mistake of telling him about it yesterday morning and all day yesterday he kept asking when we were leaving for the "movie screen"...

I snapped a quick picture of Devin and Natalie during the previews... I had to capture a picture of Devin's first date. ; )

They were both very interested in the credits at the end of the movie...
Seriously, how cute is my big boy?!?!?!?!?!

This sweet smile makes my heart melt!!

Natalie is such a cutie pie!!!

Devin and Natalie holdin hands... How sweet are they?!?

The kids were AWESOME the entire movie and I look forward to Natalie and Devin's next, chaperoned, date!

Westin's Bedding

2010-01-07T15:37:00.005-06:00

I have FINALLY chosen the bedding for Westin's nursery! I had originally wanted to make his bedding but while looking online for inspiration I fell in love with this bedding by Bacati! It is so perfect for the nursery I can't get over it! I knew that I wanted to use blue as an accent, all the furniture is white and the walls are already chocolate brown...

Belated Christmas

2010-01-05T14:43:00.020-06:00

What a fantastic Christmas! We decided to do Christmas simple this year, it was all about the boys! This was the easiest holiday season in a LONG time, it gave us time and perspective on what this season is really about.

Christmas Eve it snowed and was beautiful but people in Texas just don't know how to handle inclimate weather...but we ventured out to my FIL's house in spite of it.

The boys looked so handsome and were bundled in their Christmas blankets ready for the drive.

Daddy looked pretty good himself! ; )

...we had to get the toys out immediately and play before dinner... MeMa and PePa's toys are "so cool"...
My FIL and his wife prepared an amazing meal! They are such great hosts and the boys LOVE to spend time at MeMa and PePa's house!

The boys adore their Uncle Nick!

Now to clean up the "old" toys so we can open up the new ones...

....but Corbin just wanted to play in the toy bin...

They had a blast opening their gifts!

That night was an experience driving home...lots of ice...it is usually a 45 minute drive and it took us over 2 hours. BUT WE MADE IT!

Christmas morning the boys woke up and sat on the couch watching the
parade while I put together breakfast quiche and waited for my sister and her husband and my parent's to get here. Last year is the first year EVER that I didn't spend Christmas morning with my parents and it made me sad, so this year my family came to us.

We all sat around in our PJs and watched the boys open their gifts. They were SO excited about their stockings!

Corbin mostly wanted to just sit on everything...

Devin carefully examined every present
Now for the BIG gifts!
Corbin got a tricycle

Devin got a Big Wheel and rode it ALL over the house!

After eating breakfast everyone went home to get ready for Christmas day festivities at my parent's home.

As SOON as we gt to my parent's the boys went straight for great grandpa's lap! This just melts my heart! Our boys have no problem making themselves right at home when at GG and PaPi's...

This is my youngest brother and grandmother
The boys snoopin in the stockings..

I bet you haven't ever seen Santa pick his nose! ; )

...and why wouldn't the boys need more toys...

On Saturday my MIL and her husband came over to celebrate Christmas and my batteries were dead so I have no pictures. : ( The boys got to open presents for the FOURTH time in three days...I really don't think our boys "need" for anything!!!

We truly are blessed by our families!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-20T10:56:00.002-06:00

Silly Fun & A TRAIN!

2009-12-16T21:28:00.005-06:00

This afternoon before Devin and I went Christmas shopping, while Corbin was spending time with daddy, he wanted to take "Silly Pictures"....

I love how he is turning into such a little man! He is such a joy to be with!

Devin is OBSESSED with trains!!!!! I actually think the word obsessed might be an understatement... I have seen the unfinished wood train pieces at Michael's and thought it would be a neat thing for me to paint and give him for Christmas. He is gonna go nuts for this!

Here he is...

2009-12-14T20:59:00.002-06:00

Introducing Westin King Russo!

At today's doctor appointment she did another sonogram and we, Devin and I, got to see Westin. No matter how many children I have I am still in awe of the miracle happening inside of me! Devin LOVED all the attention he got from the nurses! He is already quit the ladies man...

Westin has been moving around quit a bit, I am excited to be able to let Devin and Corbin feel him kicking!

Hostess Gifts - Ornaments

2009-12-13T15:22:00.004-06:00

I love making gifts almost as much as I love receiving them!

I made this one for a friend and I wish I would have made one for myself.

I made these for a goodie exchange at my grandmother's house and this time I DID make some for myself!

I made this one for a girlfriend's cookie exchange, I really wish I could find more of these glitter stickers!

DIY Christmas Ornaments

2009-12-09T11:31:00.004-06:00

I can't get enough of holiday tassels but hate their prices....so I made one for myself! I purchased a brown santa ornament at Hob Lob and added fringe and ribbon. Now I'm no Nester when it comes to tassel making but I really like how it turned out!

I wanted to make an ornament for the boys to go on the "family tree" so I got the mod podge, a small piece of unfinished wood, some paint, ribbon, printed out a picture of the boys on regular printer paper and here is what I cam up with...

Christmas Card Picture

2009-12-07T18:01:00.007-06:00

This should be titled "How I Almost Went Crazy While Trying To Get A Good Picture Of The Kids For Our Christmas Card"!!!!

I remember Devin's first Christmas and how much fun it was posing him in front of the tree...oh the days of only having one child... Trying to pose a toddler and a stubborn baby was not so fun. So last week I got the boys all "did up" and started the posing process. I swear it felt like every time I got a good picture of one of them the other one was looking away, had his eyes closed, was crying, looked bored, had a paci in his mouth, looking at the ceiling, was playing with the tree, rubbing his eyes, looking at his brother, telling me he was hungry...you get the idea... OR the picture was fuzzy!!! Darn camera! I even had Joe stand behind me dancing around like a fool to get a smile from them at the same time. Finally after 120 pictures I gave up and decided just to choose from what we took. I won't share the winning picture yet but I will show some examples of the trauma I put my kids thru.

They sure are some good lookin boys! ; )

Sew Busy

2009-12-03T15:38:00.004-06:00

After having no tree skirt in our front room for 3 years I finally got around to making one. The center is a raised-printed taffeta and the brown trim is dupioni silk and I love it! It works perfectly with the decor in the room and the best part is it was FREE! I already had all the fabric from a custom order last year. I always buy extra fabric for an order when it is a fabric that I really like.

And I have started working on a memory blanket for Corbin for Christmas. I made one for Devin when he was a baby and he still sleeps with it every night.

I used the bib from his first birthday...

Personalized burp cloth...

Souvenir t-shirts...

Some of my favorite onesies...

Parts of outfits from some of his "first" holidays...

I think these blankets are a great way to preserve memories without putting ANOTHER box in the attic.

Free Nursing Cover

2009-12-01T14:11:00.003-06:00

Nursing covers can be pricey so if you are looking for one and want it for FREE, just pay $8.95 for shipping, go to http://www.uddercovers.com/. When you check out simply use the code "planning".

Here is the cover I got!

Thanksgiving Part 1 & 2

2009-11-27T12:45:00.005-06:00

We are blessed to have lots of family around us! Wednesday evening we went to my parent's home for dinner. The boys have the run of GG and PaPi's house and had it torn apart in no time!

Look at this sweet face!

My little show off

Mommy & Super D

Uncle Ryan & D

My Dad & Joe...they are messes

GG feeding our never ending pit a banana

(he doesn't have a shirt on because he was playing in the toilet)

PaPi and they boys

Thursday we went to Joe's dad's house and had TONS of great food! Joe's grandparents are in town and it was the first time they have seen Corbin.

Grandpa & C

Corbin is amazed with his reflection

Uncle Nick Playing with D

Grandma playing with D...

Even Aunt Cheryl got in on it

We had a great holiday and are so thankful for our family!

Winter Fun

2009-11-24T11:53:00.013-06:00

A local business has an ice show every year and we finally went to see it this year. I have always wanted to go but never got around to it. (Thanks to some friends for inviting us) Now this isn't just an "ice" exhibit it is ROOMS constructed and carved out of ice. it is amazing! The theme was "The Grinch Stole Christmas", I really think Joe and I were more in awe of it than the boys were. Here are, more than, a few pictures of our fun evening. They provided parkas for everyone to wear, it was 9 degrees in there!

Here is Corbin and Natalie, I couldn't get enough of Corbin in his parka! He looked like ET walking around in it!

Here is Aaron, Ashlie and Natalie (and baby Hawkins)

Devin wasn't very happy about having to hold still for a picture...

Seriously, how cute is he?!?!

The "Whos" in their bed

Everything is made of ice. It was so neat!

At the end was a GIGANTIC nativity scene sculpted from ice. It was beautiful!

Devin was showing Natalie the talking dog in the gift shop

After the ice exhibit we walked around to see all the Christmas decorations...

the boys LOVE trains!

Devin would not stop talking for pictures... I have no idea where he gets that from? ; )

The "cookie" house

Devin and Natalie looking at the trains

Natalie and Devin throwing their pennies in the pond and making a wish

my sweet boys....

We had such a good time and enjoyed our time with wonderful friends!