baby steps.

Today I took a small step.
With support and encouragement from my hubby, I officially enrolled in college. I'll be attending my local community college to get my core classes out of the way and then I'll (tentatively) attend Auburn. I am hoping to take the maximum load so that I can be done and transferred by next Fall (2014).

I'm not really sure what I want to major in but I am really feeling the visual arts field. (Thoughts?)

I am really proud. This is something that I was never thought would be possible for purely practical reasons, but it's happening. I am so happy to have Marc's encouragement. He took initiative, called for my transcripts to be sent, contacted the community college about enrollment and told me to go for it. (Thanks babe)

So here we go!

lately.

 Our room. I love how calm and relaxed it feels. Exactly what I was aiming for.

 Mini-triangle wall stickers from Walls by MUR. So excited to use these, removable so great for rentals.

 Simple to put up, I used a leveler because I knew if I didn't I would be peeling and re-sticking.

Top is from Mountain Girl Clothing.

 One of the designs. I got this all done in about 30 minutes. I really love the novelty they bring to the room.

 I plan on doing a few more, just not sure exactly what/where.

 The best.

 Ocean. I thought she looked so cute sitting there with her chin resting on her hand and then these...

 Marc and I both want to get her involved in community theatre because she loves the spotlight (and does well in it)!

 How to hang those cardboard letters from Hobby Lobby.

 The girls room is done. Room/house tour coming very soon.

Goodnight y'all.

(Kristen Wiig hosted SNL last Saturday night so Marc and I have a date with Hulu.com)

what happens after you wean?

Moms,  I have a question.

What happens after you wean?

I haven't actually had the weaning experience because when Ocean weaned I was around 5 months pregnant with Luna.  I know the end is drawing near for Luna, I am assuming by November she will be done or in the process of weaning.

It made me wonder what I might expect.

So tell me, what has your experience been?

Specific questions? What happened to your boobs? Shrink, stay the same, return to pre-preg size? Did you gain weight? Notice a jump in energy? What about libido changes?

If you have a question, ask in the comments. I'll update this post sometime in a few days when I get a lot of answers. I noticed there isn't much online about this topic and I'd love to have a go-to page for other moms.

Oh, and what are some things I should do before this time is over? I keep thinking I need to have more photos. I have a ton from when Luna was really little but not many from recent. I have some of Ocean right before she weaned. I look back on them with pride.

I am really looking forward to being done nursing but at the same time, I know I am doing right by my little ones.

So basically, tips, advice, and stories. Please share! xoxo

throwback, buddhist book recommendations and other fun links.

LONGEST TITLE EVER Y'ALL.

A little throwback. Remember when Luna was this little big?

And I consumed tons of milkshakes and root beer floats?

And ended up pregnant for like a month longer than expected?

So I took a lot of baths with this angel...

And waited, a bit too impatiently until finally this moment? (totally blissed out here)

And then we compared fresh-from-the-womb photos that totally confirmed that Ocean and Luna are sisters:

(Luna Celeste)

(Oceana Mercy)

And now I am super emotional and want to have another.


So many requests for books on Buddhism, here are some from both of us:
- Buddha's Brain by Rick Hanson Focuses on the practical and scientific truth of buddhist principles, minus any mythical stuff.
- If the Buddha Married by Charlotte Kasl Ph.D I highly recommend this for any couple, I truly believe it started us on a path that completely changed our marriage
- Present Moment, Wonderful Moment by Thich Nhat Hanh Marc is currently reading this one
- If the Buddha had Kids by Charlotte Kasl Ph.D I just started this one, loving it.

And other links...
American Girl, get back to your roots!

10 ways to nurture creativity.

Strawberry vanilla bean soda!? Yes.

10 essential skills for couples coping with stress.

How do you know if your relationship will last?

50 ways to be brave today.

Guys, soul-mates do exist. I'm married to mine.

The importance of night nursing

Me too: A letter to Steubenville's Jane Doe

This tedtalk, A Call to Men by Tony Porter, is one of the most moving talks I have ever witnessed. Please watch and share with all the men (fathers, husbands and sons) in your life. For that matter, women should see this as well.

10 best houseplants to de-stress your home.

Design*Sponge's "best of indoor plants."

Top fragrant houseplants. I really want some of these, especially a citrus.

These sarcastic photoshops are great.

Yes! magazine is the best. Ever.

6 ways to stop worrying and find the work you love. (this kind of article is why I adore Yes!)

I just deleted "ghost followers" on instagram using this site, so if I am no longer in your feed, this may be the reason. You can resend a request if you'd like!

Brooke is having a HUGE spring sale in her shop clementine and nellie:

***HUGE SPRING SALE!!*** enter code DIRTCHEAP50 at checkout for 50% OFF EVERYTHING IN THE SHOP!! $20 MINIMUM PURCHASE! ***

p.s Have you thought about buying an ad from my little loves? Use the code twentyoff for 20% off any size ad!