Blessed Beyond Measure

I Get To Live Here :)

2012-01-25T20:07:00.000-08:00

After 9 months of living in our new home, I finally have most of the rooms (with the exception of the laundry room & office, where we're having a mud bench, desk & bookshelves built) completely finished & looking the way I envisioned they would the first day I walked through this house. It has been such a fun & exhausting process, and Travis and I are both thrilled with the final product. We feel so incredibly blessed to live in such a warm & welcoming space, and absolutely ADORE our street & wonderful neighbors. God willing, this will be our home for many years to come. As for the office & laundry room, I'm still waiting patiently to begin those projects. Hoping to be able to post pictures of those completed rooms soon. :)

Since Blogger now makes it near impossible to post captions next to the correct picture (ugggh!), here are some of the new paint colors we used. Our master bedroom, bathroom, laundry room & office are painted Benjamin Moore's "Edgecomb Gray" (quite possibly my very favorite paint color EVER!!!). We chose Sherwin William's "White Dogwood" for Lila's bedroom & bathroom & love it, too. I've already posted pictures of the basement/play room, and nothing has really changed, other than the addition of lots of fun new toys that the kids received for Christmas. Plan to post pictures of our front yard this Spring. We recently had 3 beautiful trees planted & all of the perennials that I planted last Spring and Summer should be blooming!

Busy Momma Recipes: Wedding Cake Cupcakes with Buttercream Icing...

2012-01-24T18:27:00.000-08:00

With Lila's birthday at the end of November, holiday gifts for friends & neighbors, and all the Christmas festivities, I have made WAY too many desserts lately! My efforts did, however, uncover a couple of fabulous cupcake recipes...both courtesy of Pinterest (LOVE!). I made both of these cupcakes for Lila's birthday party and they were each met with rave reviews.

Wedding Cake Cupcakes with Buttercream Icing

1 (18.25 oz) box white cake mix
1 c. flour
1 c. sugar
3/4 tsp. salt
1 1/3 c. water
2 T. vegetable or canola oil
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 c. sour cream
4 large egg whites

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In large bowl, whisk together cake mix, flour, sugar & salt. Add remaining ingredients & beat about 2 minutes or until well blended.
Bake for 18 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Buttercream Icing

3 c. powdered sugar
1 c. butter, @ room temp
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1-2 T. whipping cream

In large bowl, with electric mixer, cream together sugar & butter on low speed. Mix until well blended. Increase speed to medium & beat about 3 minutes. Add vanilla & cream & continue to beat on medium speed for 1 minute more, adding more cream, if needed to obtain desired consistency.

Busy Momma Recipes: Snickerdoodle Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting...

2012-01-24T13:34:00.001-08:00

These Snickerdoodle cupcakes are especially fun for Fall. Enjoy!

Snickerdoodle Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

3 c. flour
1 T. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 T. cinnamon
1 c. unsalted butter, @ room temp
1 3/4 c. sugar
4 large eggs, @ room temp
2 tsp. vanilla
1 1/4 c. milk

Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz. cream cheese, @ room temp
1/2 c. unsalted butter, @ room temp
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. cinnamon
3 c. powdered sugar, sifted

Cinnamon-Sugar Dusting

1 tsp. cinnamon
2 T. sugar

-Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Sift together flour, baking powder, salt & cinnamon.
-With mixer on medium speed, cream nutter & sugar until pale & fluffy. Add eggs one at a time beating until each is incorporated, scraping down sides of bowl as needed. Beat in vanilla. Reduce speed to low. Add flour mixture in 3 batches, alternating with 2 additions of milk & beating until combined after each.
-Divide batter evenly among lined cups, filling each 3/4 full. Bake, rotating tins half way through until cake tester comes out clean- about 20 min.
-Transfer tins to wire racks to coll completely before removing cupcakes.

Frosting:
-Using electric mixer, beat together cream cheese & butter until light & fluffy. Add vanilla & cinnamon & beat just to combine. Slowly add powdered sugar, beating well.
-Using pastry bag fitted with large, plain, round tip, pipe frosting on each cupcake.
-Immediately finish by dusting the frosting with cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Our New Photo Gallery Wall!!!

2012-01-17T22:17:00.001-08:00

I've wanted to create a large photo collage on a wall in our home for quite some time. So my sweet husband let me buy my favorite O'Brien Schridde frames as part of my Christmas present and here is the result...I LOVE IT!

Hello 2012!

2012-01-12T08:00:00.001-08:00

I thought I would start 2012 with a post about what Lila Grace is accomplishing at 13 months.

~Her vocabulary is exploding! She can now say "Momma", "Papa", "bye-bye", "Cy", "Lila", "baby", "hi", "whoa", "owl", "out" (outside), "eye" & "shoow".
~Lila can moo, roar, pant like a dog & make a monkey, a horse & an elephant sound.
~She can sign "eat".
~Likes to try to feed herself with a spoon.
~Will point to eyes, nose, ears, mouth & tongue when prompted.
~Loves to play hide & seek and peek-a-boo
~Has started walking very quickly & backing up.
~Lila Grace loves to eat from a snack cup, leaving a trail all the while.
~Turns pages of books & loves flap books. Her favorite reads are "I Know a Rhino", "Playtime Peek-a-boo" & "If I were a Hippo".
~She is transitioning to one nap, but will occasionally need a morning snooze. Her afternoon nap usually starts between 12:30 & 1, and if it's her first nap of the day, lasts 2-2 1/2 hours.
~Our sweet girl gives lots of kisses & thinks Eskimo kisses are so fun.
~Dances to music
~Loves to "brush her teeth"...aka chew on her toothbrush.
~ She eats basically anything. A few of her currents favs are grilled cheese sandwiches, bananas, yogurt, pizza, strawberries, grapes, strawberry Nutrigrain bars & peanut butter granola bars.

2011 Wrap-Up...

2012-01-11T14:49:00.001-08:00

Here are a few more pictures of the last week in December as our family wrapped up 2011. Cy Wesley has become quite the helper, as seen here helping Papa fertilize the yard & enjoying a sunny winter day outside organizing our neighbors exta bricks. Santa also made a very belated stop at the Epperson house bringing a few more fun surprises. Happy New Year, Everyone!

Here Comes Santa Clause...

2011-12-30T20:50:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve was spent with my family & Christmas spirit was in no short supply. Cy, Lila, Joey, Hattie & Hannah clearly made Santa's "Good List" this year & had fun breaking in all their new treasures; while the adults enjoyed great food & the company of those we love so much (& a few gifts for us, too :)!

Epperson Christmas 2011

2011-12-29T10:03:00.000-08:00

Our family enjoyed the holiday season immensely this year. Cy really got caught up in the excitement & was such a joy to watch. Our day started off with Gigi's delicious cinnamon rolls & stockings, and later, a late lunch & gifts. Of course, most of all, we cherished the opportunity to be with family, recalling our many blessings, being spoiled by Santa and thoroughly entertained by our little ones!

Merry Christmas from the Eppersons!

2011-12-13T12:06:00.001-08:00

Lila's Belated 12 Month Stats & Recent Pics...

2011-12-13T11:02:00.001-08:00

Here are Lila Grace's 12 Months Stats:

Weight: 19 lbs 2 oz (25%)
Height: 29" (60%)
Head: 18" (75%)

I've also posted a few recent pictures from late November/early December, including Grandma Epperson's visit the week of Thanksgiving.

Lila Grace Turns ONE!!!

2011-11-23T11:45:00.000-08:00

Here are the rest of the photos from our family session with Chanda's Photography marking Lila's first birthday. I am so proud of the images she was able to capture of our sweet babies!

Family Photo Shoot with Chanda's Photography...

2011-11-22T12:55:00.000-08:00

Chanda Carter of Chanda's Photography (www.chandasphotography.com) took on the task of photographing the Hughes & Zant families including 5 youngens under 2 a few weeks ago. She did a fabulous job and captured moments with my family and especially my grandparents that I will forever cherish. Just an aside (since I can't figure out how to add text next to pictures...by the way, if any one has tips on this and would like to share, I'm all ears!) the pictures were taken at my aunt & uncles house who have several cats & Cy was obsessed with catching them the entire time! He was finally successful at the end of the shoot & was completely euphoric...it was hilarious. Poor Buster...once he was able to shake Cy, he became really good at dodging him!

Lila's First Birthday Celebration...

2011-11-19T20:18:00.001-08:00

We celebrated Lila's first birthday on Saturday with an owl-themed "Look Whooo's One" party. Unfortunately, several of her would be party-goers were sick with a nasty bug that's going around...including her brother who had a major meltdown when he got to the house & went to bed soon there after, missing the festivities. But none of those factors dampened our sweet girl's spirits. Lila Grace had a blast & did quite a number on her smash cake...as you can see. Happy Birthday, pretty girl! You have been the perfect addition to our family & have brought so much joy in your first year. We love you more than you could ever know!

Lila Grace is 11 Months Old!!!

2011-11-08T12:41:00.000-08:00

Since Lila's 1st birthday celebration is quickly approaching, I need to sneak in the last monthly milestone post before her special day! Can I just say...WOW!!! How is it possible that our sweet pumpkin is about to be ONE??? Here's what Lila Grace has been accomplishing as she counts down to the big event.

~She's ever so close to walking! Has taken 4-5 steps at a time, but not consistently. She really doesn't care for falling & still prefers crawling to taking wobbly steps.
~Lila loves to "ROAR"! Apparently, there's a lot of roaring that goes on with a big brother, so she's picked that up pretty quickly. :) She can also make an elephant noise while lifting her arm to her nose when prompted. Adorable!
~She has 8 teeth. 4 on top & 4 on bottom.
~She transitioned to whole milk beautifully & is a pro at drinking all of her liquids from a sippy cup. No more buying pricey formula...woohoo!!!
~Lila Grace loves table food. Bananas, yogurt, oatmeal & banana pudding top her list of favorites, but she also really likes string cheese, lunch meat, strawberries, Fig Newtons, eggs, waffles, bread & apples.
~She says "Mama", "Papa", "La-La" (Lila), "Dy" (Cy), "bye-bye", "boo" & "more"...along with lots of babbling.
~She can point out Mama's eyes, nose & mouth. And points to anything that she wants or wants me to tell her the name of.
~Our baby girl loves to be held upside-down or even better to be swung backwards then brought back up. She's also a big fan of crawling through, under, over & around our dining room table & chairs.
~She's great at following simple commands & constantly mimics what Cy is doing.
~Lila may be our strong willed child. She likes to touch her brothers eyes, nose & mouth while he's on the floor getting his diaper changed & isn't deterred by other distractions, a stern "No" from Mama or often even a slap on the hand. What a stinker!
~She loves to play pat-a-cake & peek-a-boo.

Sneak Peek...

2011-11-05T19:27:00.001-07:00

Here's a sneak peek of a few photos from Lila's one year photo shoot today & the big family session that followed. Chanda Carter (www.chandasphotography.com)...you are AMAZING!!!

Trunk or Treat 2011

2011-11-03T09:15:00.001-07:00

Argh, matie! We enjoyed beautiful weather & the the company of great friends at the Trunk or Treat festivities this year! And our little pirate had a blast collecting yummy loot while his baby sister took in all the sights of her first Halloween. I apologize for the lack of captions...can't figure out how to get the captions to line up with the cooresponding picture. Big BOO to Blogger! I threw in a few more pictures from October at the end.

Fall Photo Ops...

2011-10-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

Only Imagine Photography- July Photo Session...

2011-10-02T11:12:00.001-07:00

Here are more pictures from our July photo shoot with Only Imagine Photography. Thanks so much, Lynette!

Lila Grace is 10 Months Old...

2011-09-30T10:14:00.001-07:00

Our sweet, Lila is now 10 months old & SO much fun! Travis and I have loved getting to see more and more of her personality expressed every day. Our precious baby girl has the best temperament. I've said it many times, but she is so content, easy going & happy! We just couldn't ask for a better little girl! Here are a few new milestones that Lila is working on.

~She's not walking yet, but is ever so close to taking those memorable first steps. She cruises around everything, walks the radio flyer wagon & can just almost stand up from sitting by herself! Way to go, Lila!
~Is quite the babbler & thinks her big brother is just hilarious. They have these precious, little conversations with each other.
~Loves table food. Bananas, string cheese, lunch meat & yogurt are her favorites. She is NOT a fan of mash potatoes & is becoming increasingly picky with her baby food concoctions. Can't say that I blame her.
~Lila Grace goes to bed at 7pm & usually, I have to wake her up in the morning around 8:30am! Such a great sleeper! Her AM nap usually starts around 10 & PM at 2.
~She waves bye-bye, shakes her head "No", & says "Mama" & "Lila".
~She loves to clap for herself, play peek-a-boo, & be bounced.
~Lila now has a grand total of 5 teeth. (lower lats & centrals & UR central). The UL central is very close to coming in.
~She can crawl FAST & pretty much spends most of her day following Cy around.
~She drinks 3 bottles a day for breakfast, lunch & dinner...about 24 oz.
~Loves to play on pillows. She just loves the way they feel. She'll climb on them a bit then lay her head down & enjoy the softness...so cute!
~Wearing Size 3.5 shoes & 9-12 month clothes.
~Enjoys the great outdoors. Lila loves to swing, & be pushed in her car or the stroller.

So Long To Summer...

2011-09-29T06:03:00.001-07:00

Here are some photos from September as the Eppersons bid adieu to Summer and welcome cooler weather & all the joys that accompany Fall...my favorite season!

Labor Day Weekend at LBJ...

2011-09-07T13:28:00.000-07:00

We had a fabulous time at lake LBJ with my family over Labor Day Weekend. The kids swam, played with water balloons, fished, kayaked, rode in the boat & just greatly enjoyed quality time with their cousins, Gramps & Mimi, and even the great-grands.

Lila Grace after her first hair trim...just straightened up the front and back a bit. :)

This girl loves her Papa!

Fun with Ethan...

Filling water balloons...

Worms~~~

Fishing with Papa...

Got one!!!

First Catch...

Cal & Hattie (9 months)

...and first ride in a kayak

Great Catch!!!

Cutest toddler on the planet!!!

Summer Silliness & Some Outdoor Fun...

2011-09-07T07:51:00.001-07:00

9 Months...

2011-09-07T06:23:00.000-07:00

Lila Grace reached the 3/4 mark through her first year of life a couple weeks ago & she's checking off milestones at a feverish pace! Here are her current stats and a few recent additions to her bag of tricks.

Weight: 18 lbs 3 oz (50%)
Height: 27.6" (70%)!!!
Head Circumference: 17.4" (75%)...she's growing a big noggin' to match the rest of her family :)

~Pulls up on everything!
~Cruising around furniture
~Can stand by herself for 10-20 seconds at a time. Lila can also play with/shake a toy while she's standing.
~Crawling through openings in furniture, under chairs, etc. She's quite the little explorer!
~Waves & says "bye-bye"
~Shakes her head "no"
~Has started eating some table food- soft cheese, yogurt, banana, & lunch meat
~Has perfected her "pincher grasp"- picking up food with her thumb & forefinger
~Pushes her Radio Flyer Wagon
~Has 3 teeth...lower centrals & lower left lateral.
~LOVES her "Honey Bunny" lovey!!! When you hand it to her, she pulls it in close with her left hand & her right thumb immediately goes into her mouth...so cute!
~Her favorite toys at present are her Laugh & Learn Table, Little Tykes piano, Sophie Giraffe, & her baby dolls. Most the time she follows her big brother around and plays with whatever is nearby.
~Wearing Size 3 Cruisers, 9 month clothes, & size 2.5 shoes
~Takes 2 naps, each lasting about 1 1/2 hrs. Her am nap starts around 9:30 & usually ends at 11. Her pm snooze is from 1-2:30 or 3.
~Lila Grace wakes between 7:30 & 8 am.
~Our sweet girl is not a snuggler at bedtime. Any attempt to rock or bounce her until she's drowsy, she views as extra play time. Our bedtime routine consists of bath, reading a book or two, putting her in her sleep sack, handing her "Honey" her lovey, and laying her down for some zzzzz's. If she ever wakes up during the night (which is a rare occasion, unless she's teething), she does, however, like to lay her head on my shoulder and be bounced or rocked.
~Getting the hang of drinking from a sippy cup.
~Lila loves peek-a-boo & pat-a-cake

Mini Makeover...

2011-09-01T20:35:00.001-07:00

I decided that Lila Grace's room was just missing something. I wanted it to feel more playful, fun & girly. What screams "playful, fun & girly" more than pink...lots & lots of pink! Here is the before and after pictures of the mini makeover. I'm so very pleased with the result :)

Before

...and AFTER!!!

I absolutely LOVE the wall color! It is "White Dogwood" by Sherwin Williams. It's amazing how even a subtle, soft color can make such an impact. I even found these adorable ruffled pillows at Target, and ordered a beautiful PBK braided chenille rug to complete the makeover.

I have also ordered poms and paper lanterns so that I can hang something similar to this. So fun!

Big Boy Bed...

2011-08-23T05:16:00.000-07:00

We gave Cy's big boy bed a try several months ago without success. A couple weeks ago, however, our sweet little toddler decided one night that he didn't want to sleep in his "baby bed" anymore & has slept soundly in his big bed ever since! No drama, no build-up to the big event necessary...just a very smooth transition once Cy Wesley decided that he was ready. Woohoo! :)

Being silly...

Playmates...

2011-08-17T07:18:00.000-07:00

Listening to the sweet sounds of my precious kiddos playing together, giggling & babbling brings so much joy to this momma's heart!

Lost His Skibbies...

2011-08-14T21:11:00.001-07:00

Cy recently decided to take a much needed dip in the pool without his skibbies... silly fella!

Cutest little bottom that I've ever seen :)

Lila & Papa enjoying Cy's antics in the comfort of some shade.

Our New Home!!!

2011-08-12T06:05:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of our new home! Travis and I absolutely LOVE this house, our cul-de-sac street, & all of our sweet neighbors, and feel that it will be the perfect place to raise our family. We are having a desk & bookshelves built in the office, and a mud bench made for the utility room. I'll post pictures of these rooms once the projects are complete.

Living Room

Hallway to Lila's room on the left and hallway to office & Cy's bedroom on the right.

Entry to formal dining on left and entry to breakfast area & kitchen on right.

Formal Dining... & in my opinion, the most beautiful room in our home! Thank you Mom & Dad for our gorgeous new dining set & rug! We love them :)

Kitchen

Informal Dining/ Breakfast Area

Here are the natural woven wood shades that we plan to put on the windows in the living room and informal dining.

Master Bedroom

Master Bath

Shelves in hallway between Cy's bedroom & bathroom

Cy's Bedroom

Cy's Bathroom

Lila Grace's Bedroom

Lila's Bathroom

Play Room/ Basement

July Photo Shuffle...

2011-08-11T10:48:00.000-07:00

Here are some random pictures from July. I didn't realize how many photos I hadn't posted yet...so prepare yourself.

Poor, sick nugget...

Fun with Ellie...

Blowing Bubbles...

9 Years Ago...

2011-08-10T13:52:00.000-07:00

9 years ago, today, I married the man who has made all of my dreams come true! I am so thankful for the amazing husband, father & friend, that Travis is, and am humbled daily that God continues to bless me with and through him. Happy Anniversary, Baby~

Garden in Bloom...

2011-08-10T07:36:00.001-07:00

When we moved into our new house, there were only a few Indian Hawthorne bushes still living in our front flower beds. So my brother helped me create a cottage style landscape design and my grandmother and I went to work! To say that completely landscaping a new yard on a year where it fails to rain...EVER, would be a major understatement. It has been really challenging, but Travis and I are so pleased with the results. Granted all the plants are new and pretty small, but we can envision what the fruits of our labor will look like next Spring. :)

Here are the before pictures. Like I said, we pulled up all but 3 Indian Hawthorne's from the original beds.

...and after.

A few of my garden favorites...
"Dallas Red" Crape Myrtle...I LOVE this tree!

"Homestead Purple" Verbena

"May Night" Salvia

"Rosy Glow" Barberry

Hollyhocks

Maiden Grass

"Valentine" & "Marie Pavie" Antique Roses

Busy Momma Recipe: Pork Sandwiches with Cilantro-Jalapeno Slaw

2011-08-10T06:29:00.000-07:00

I made this Pioneer Woman recipe last night & my handsome husband, the self proclaimed food snob, said that it was one of the best sandwiches that he's ever had! I've happily added it to our collection of favorites. I served it with Jalapeno Kettle Chips. Easy & very tasty, the winning combo for a busy momma. And an added bonus, your house will smell fantastic while the pork is cooking! :)

Pork Sandwiches with Cilantro-Jalapeno Slaw

1 whole Onion, Peeled And Quartered
1 whole Pork Butt (pork Shoulder Roast)
Salt And Pepper
1 can (11 Ounce) Chipotle Peppers In Adobo Sauce
2 cans Cola (Dr Pepper, Coke, Etc.)
2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
12 whole Good Quality Kaiser Or Deli Rolls
12 Tablespoons Butter
1/2 head Cabbage, Sliced Thin
1/2 head Purple Cabbage, Sliced Thin
1 whole Jalapeno, Halved Lengthwise And Thinly Sliced
1/2 cup Whole Milk
1/2 cup Mayonnaise
1 teaspoon White Vinegar
1 Tablespoon Sugar
1/4 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
2 cups Cilantro Leaves, Barely Chopped

Preparation Instructions:

MEAT

Preheat oven to 300 degrees.

Generously salt and pepper the pork roast, then set it on top of the onions in the pan.

Pour the can of chipotle peppers over the pork (include the sauce.) Pour in both cans of Dr Pepper. Add brown sugar to the juice and stir in.

Place lid tightly on pot, then set pot in the oven. Cook for at least six hours, turning roast two or three times during the cooking process. Check meat after six hours; it should be absolutely falling apart (use two forks to test.) If it’s not falling apart, return to the oven for another hour.

Remove meat from pot and place on a cutting board or other work surface. Use two forks to shred meat, discarding large pieces of fat. Strain as much of the fat off the top of the cooking liquid as you can and discard it. Return the shredded meat to the cooking liquid, and keep warm until ready to serve. (You can also refrigerate the meat and liquid separately, then remove hardened fat once it’s cold. Then heat up the liquid on the stovetop and return the meat to the liquid to warm up.)

SLAW

Combine shredded cabbage and sliced jalapenos in a bowl. In a separate bowl mix milk, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and cayenne. Pour over cabbage. Toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate two hours.

Before serving, toss in cilantro leaves.

SANDWICHES

Butter both halves of Kaiser rolls, then brown them on a griddle or skillet until golden and crisp on the surface. Load up each sandwich with shredded pork, then REALLY load them up with the slaw.

Summer Shoot...

2011-08-01T20:04:00.000-07:00

Our friend, Lynette Reeves of Only Imagine Photography (onlyimaginephotography.com) recently took photos of our sweet kiddos to mark Cy's 2nd birthday & the half way point in Lila Grace's first year of life (a bit belated...she's now 8 months old!). We are beyond thrilled with what Lynette captured...beautiful moments with our precious little ones. Here's a sneak peek at the session...more to come soon. :)

Lemon Meringue Ice-Cream Pie...

2011-07-26T19:00:00.000-07:00

The folks at Southern Living put a hefty claim behind this Lemon Meringue Ice-Cream Pie recipe featured on the cover of their August issue- "Best Lemon Pie EVER!". After giving this noteworthy pie a test run, I completely agree! I actually chose to substitute a homemade whipping cream topping that is used by the Glazed Honey Ham Company right here in the Hub City, rather than the meringue because I LOVE their lemon pie. Either way, ladies...this one's a keeper!

Lemon Meringue Ice-Cream Pie

2 pt. vanilla ice cream
Vanilla Wafer Crust
1 1/2 c. Homemade Lemon Curd
16 vanilla wafers
Meringue Topping (or whipping cream topping, like I used.)

Let ice cream stand at room temp 5 minutes or just until soft enough to spread. Spoon 1 pt. ice cream into Vanilla Wafer Crust. Top with 3/4 c. lemon curd; repeat with remaining ice cream & lemon curd. Gently swirl ice cream and curd with a knife or small spatula. Insert vanilla wagers around edge of pie. Cover & freeze 8 hrs.

Spread Meringue Topping over pie. If desired, brown meringue using a kitchen torch, holding torch 1-2" from pie and moving torch back & forth. (If you don't have a torch, preheat broiler with oven rack 8" from heat; broil 30-45 sec or until golden.) Serve immediately or cover loosely with plastic wrap, & freeze 4 hrs. or up to 1 week.

Homemade Lemon Curd
You'll have about 1/2 c. lemon curd left after making the pie. Serve it alongside the pie, drizzle over fresh fruit, or spread on hot biscuits.

2 c. sugar
1/2 c. butter, coarsely chopped
2 Tbsp. lemon zest
1 c. fresh lemon juice (about 6 lemons)
4 large eggs, lightly beaten

Stir together first 4 ingredients in large, heavy saucepan over medium heat, & cook, stirring constantly 3-4 minutes or until sugar dissolves and butter melts.

Whisk about 1/4 of hot sugar mixture gradually into eggs; add egg mixture to remaining hot sugar mixture, whisking constantly. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, 15 minutes or until mixture thickens and coats back of spoon. Remove from heat; cool completely (about 1 hr), stirring occasionally. Store in airtight container in refrigerator up to 2 weeks.

Vanilla Wafer Crust

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Stir together 2 1/2 c. coarsely crushed vanilla wafers, 1/4 c. powdered sugar, & 1/2 c. melted butter; firmly press on bottom, up sides, and onto lip of lightly greased 9" pie plate. Bake 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven, and cool completely (about 1 hr).

Meringue Topping

2 egg whites
1 1/4 c. sugar
1 Tbsp. light corn syrup
1 tsp. vanilla extract

Pour water to depth of 1 1/2" into 3 1/2 qt. saucepan; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium, and let simmer.

Meanwhile, combine egg whites, next 3 ingredients, and 1/4 c. water in a 2 1/2 qt. glass bowl; beat mixture at high speed with an electric mixer until blended. Place bowl over simmering water, and beat at high speed 5-7 minutes or until soft peaks form; remove from heat. Beat to spreading consistency (about 2-3 min). Use immediately.

Alternate Whipping Cream Topping

1 c. whipping cream
1/3 c. sugar

Chill metal mixing bowl and wire beater. Add 1 c. whipping cream and 1/3 c. sugar in mixing bowl. Cover mixer with a towel and whip on high until peaks are formed. Spread on cooled pie and refrigerate.

8 Months & MoBiLE...

2011-07-22T05:52:00.000-07:00

Our precious princess is 8 months old today!!! My, oh my...how the months are flying by! For some reason 8 months sounds so old, as opposed to 7!?! This is actually the exact same title that I used for Cy's 8 month post. Like her brother at the same age, Lila Grace is officially mobile...woohoo! The past few weeks have been really frustrating for her, being oh, so close to crawling, but couldn't quite figure it out. Now, she's on the move & exploring her surroundings! Here are a few more things that our big girl is up to at 8 months old.

~She has said "Momma" a few more times.
~Has become quite the wiggle worm on the changing table
~Wearing Size 3 Diapers...I guess now that she's mobile, our next box will be Cruisers!
~Sporting Size 6-9 month clothes
~Can finally wear her 0-6 months Pedipeds & size 2 shoes...they're pretty roomy.
~Is a big fan of her Laugh & Learn Activity Table. She can stand at it unassisted for several minutes at a time, pushing, banging, turning, twisting, & shaking all the gadgets. She also loves to play peek-a-boo & to drop her toys & watch momma or brother scurry to pick them up...this is great fun!

~LOVES her Sophie Giraffe! She's chewing on something constantly, but no teeth yet.
~Lila is a splasher! Baths are pretty messy, but they sure are fun :)
~Down to 2 naps a day. She's officially dropped her late afternoon cat nap. Both she & Cy are waking earlier these days- around 7 am. So usually ready for her AM nap by 9:00-9:30...lasting about 1 1/2-2 hrs. Her PM nap starts between 12:30 & 1 and she'll sleep about 1 1/2 hrs. Bedtime is between 7 & 8 pm.
~I suspect that our sweet girl may have some texture issues like her Papa. She exhibits pretty dramatic reactions to some foods, namely cereal & applesauce. She's even gagged & thrown up a few times. I'm hoping that this will be something she out grows as her palate adjusts to a wider variety of foods. She's now been properly introduced to all the veggies, fruits, rice cereal & baby oatmeal. We're moving on to the mixes.
~Lila Grace enjoys to blow raspberries while eating which is not much fun for mom on the receiving end.
~LOVES popsicles & flavor-ice! Not surprising since I had a popsicle every day while I was pregnant with her :)

Weekend with Gramps & Mimi and Hannah's 2nd Birthday...

2011-07-18T07:28:00.001-07:00

The kids and I enjoyed a fun filled weekend with Gramps & Mimi complete with a 2nd birthday celebration for Miss Hannah Mae. As you can see, every one had a fabulous time. Happy Birthday, Hannah!

Smarty Pants...

2011-07-13T05:33:00.000-07:00

I have to take a moment to brag about our smart toddler! Cy Wesley's vocabulary has exploded since his 2nd birthday. He has been spouting out 5 & 6 word sentences on a regular basis, as of late. Cy also knows every letter of the alphabet & can count to 10! He also knows many shapes- circle, oval, square, rectangle, crescent, diamond, triangle, & heart. We've been working on learning colors- he's got blue, green, red, pink, & purple down. He's a big fan of animals & knows them all by name. This boy also LOVES trucks, and can recite every variety under the sun...bulldozer, big rig, dump truck, front loader, tractor (of course), airport fire truck, ambulance, delivery truck, digger, fuel, truck, scraper, car transporter, excavator, fire engine, brush rig, fire chief's truck, tow truck, snow plow, mail truck, garbage truck...the list goes on & on. Needless to say, Travis and I have been so impressed with his sharp little mind which is acquiring more and more knowledge by the day!

Daddy's Girl...

2011-07-10T17:49:00.001-07:00

Lovebugs...

2011-07-07T10:02:00.000-07:00

You Are My Sunshine!

2011-07-01T20:46:00.001-07:00

Loves showing off her tongue...

Lila Grace at 7 Months...

2011-06-26T20:17:00.000-07:00

Our little cupcake is 7 months old & is adding to her bag of tricks daily. The most notable of which, is that Lila Grace said her first word, "Mama", a couple days ago when she spotted me! She has become quite talkative...babbling away, and altering her tone & volume to make her wishes crystal clear. Lila is an observer, a listener...just taking it all in. Can't imagine our little family with out you, pretty girl. We love you so much! Here are a few more milestones Lila is checking off her list at present.

~Loves to play peek-a-boo. Puts her shirt, lovey, or burp cloth over her face, then pulls it back with a big grin.
~She's stuck in reverse! Lila hasn't quite mastered movement in a forward direction. She lunges toward objects from the sitting position, rocks on her hands and knees, then flattens out, raises her feet & scoots backwards. Very frustrating for her, but she'll figure it out soon enough. Mom's enjoying the last few weeks of limited mobility!
~Has sampled all the veggies & is a particular fan of peas & squash. Fruits are on the menu for next week.
~Can drink from a sippy cup. I think most the time she just chews on the spout, but she's getting the hang of it.
~She loves to be sung to....grins the entire time :)
~Is very interested in what people around her are eating.
~Lila Grace loves to be bounced, thrown in the air, & swung.
~Takes 2-3 naps a day, depending on the length of the first two naps. 30-45 minute cat naps in the late afternoon are becoming less frequent. Wakes between 7:30 & 8:00 am, takes a morning nap around 9:30-10 lasting 1 1/2-2 hrs., a PM nap starting at 1:30 or 2 for 1 hr., & occasionally a 30-45 minute late afternoon cat nap around 4:30. If she snags at late afternoon snooze, bedtime is at 8, otherwise, she's out by 7.

...and just for fun, Cy Wesley at 7 months :)

Summertime...

2011-06-24T06:56:00.001-07:00

Sweet Lila Grace...always smiling!

Enjoying his drink of choice-"Pri Sun"...

This is what Cy looks like most of the time these days...hauling around as much as his arms can carry.

My favorite picture, of late, of Cy Wesley...so handsome!

Watching Papa mow...

Cy's first corn on the cob...he loved it!

Peas and Carrots...

2011-06-22T08:27:00.000-07:00

Meeska, Mooska...Joey is Twoska!!!

2011-06-14T12:03:00.001-07:00

Joey Madison celebrated her 2nd birthday with a Minnie Mouse themed swim party. Unfortunately, Joey had to party with a cast on her arm, but that certainly didn't slow her down or put a damper on the festivities! Happy Birthday, Joey!!!

Pretty girl in her sunhat...

Splash!

Hannah Mae- 23 months

Tucker Cotton- 2 1/2 years

Happy Birthday, Joey!!!

Hattie Lane- 6 months

There is no doubt that these cutie patootie cousins will have so much fun growing up together!

Little Miss Lila Grace...

2011-06-14T07:52:00.000-07:00

Enjoying some lovin' from Mamaw...

Moving In & Catching Up...

2011-06-13T19:46:00.000-07:00

We've been hard at work with the move as of late, leaving me little time to blog about my precious lovebugs! So I've got some catching up to do & many fun pictures to post. Here are some shots of my two favorite little people from the past few weeks.

Both mesmerized by Baby Einstein's "Baby Noah" DVD...my kiddos are big fans of animals.

Our little loves...

Happy Girl!

Rubba-dub-dub...Cy loves "swimmin'" (aka: bathing) in Momma's big tub!

Lila Grace loves her jumperoo...

RAIN!!! Playing in the puddles after a recent & much needed Spring shower...

Lots of Firsts for Lila...

2011-06-13T19:19:00.001-07:00

Lila Grace just gets cuter by the minute! I love to see her sweet personality shining through more and more each day. She has recently been introduced to green beans, peas, baby mum mums & sippy cups...all of which she's not quite sure about, but gets an "A" for effort. She's also rolling both directions quite efficiently and scooting around a bit (mostly backwards). Lila loves playing with her feet & practicing her newest trick- blowing raspberries...silly girl!

Here are her 6 month stats:
Height: 25.8" (50%)
Weight: 15 lbs 9 oz (40%)
Head Circumference: 16.6" (50%)

Munching on her first 'Mum-Mum'...

"Two...Not Three!!!"

2011-06-02T15:31:00.000-07:00

Cy Wesley turned 2 on the 27th! Here are his current stats, a few things that our little adventurer is accomplishing, and some of his favorites as he begins his 3rd year of life.

2 year stats:
Height: 34.6" (70%)
Estimated Growth Potential= 5'10"-5'11...just like his Papa!
Weight: 29 lbs 1 oz (70%)
Head Circumference: 19.6" (90%)...still has a big noggin :)

~"Two...not three!" is his response when asked how old he is. So cute!
~"Scratch back"...I hear this sweet phrase about 20 times a day! It's becoming Cy's coping mechanism when he's hurt, tired, being silly, or just needs some attention from Momma. In fact, the little stinker has also started directing me as to where he wants to be scratched. Momma, scratch back...scratch arm...scratch other arm...Momma, scratch head...adorable!
~LOVES trucks & very impressively can tell you the name of each variety...bulldozers, dump trucks, excavators, front loader, fuel truck, tipper, dumper, etc!
~Knows all the letters of the alphabet & is quickly learning his colors...we've got Blue, Green & Purple down. He can also count to 3 :)
~Has taken ownership of momma's iPhone. We've found all kinds of fun apps that he enjoys- Shape Builder puzzles, Toddler Teaser Shapes, Matching Zoo Game, Giraffe's Preschool Playground, Wheels on the Bus & Talking Tom are his favs.
~Still loves to carry around groups of toys- animals, puzzle pieces, trucks, etc.
~Loves to play with play dough- rolling it into a ball & pushing it onto objects to make an impression.
~Is really into labeling things- Momma's car, Papa's lawn mower, Gramps' tractors, Gigi's house, etc.
~Cy is talking in sentences. "Lila sleeping in Momma's room", "Big tires on Papa's truck", "Go to Mimi & Gramps' house", "Cy swim at Joey's party"...
~Really likes taking a bath (aka- swimming) in Momma's big tub at our new house.
~Favorite cartoons are Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Word World, & Super Why. Favorite Movie: Finding Nemo.
~He's such a sweetie! I just beam with pride as I hear unsolicited phrases of "No, Maam", "Please", & "Thank You, Momma". In fact, the word "No" rarely crosses his lips without being followed by "Maam". Sweet angel!

HapPy HalF BIrThDAy, LiLA GrACe!!!

2011-05-26T06:50:00.000-07:00

Lila Grace marked the half-way point through her first year of life on the 22nd! Can't believe that our baby girl is 6 months old! She is just the most pleasant, easy going baby you'll ever meet! Everyone who spends time with her is amazed by how good Lila is. She has gone through a substantial growth spurt recently & is tackling lots of new milestones. Here are some of the most noteworthy...

~Has found her feet...so cute!
~Reaches out her arms when she wants to be picked up
~No longer being swaddled. She transitioned beautifully into a sleep sack
~Wearing size 2 Swaddlers, size 6 mo. clothes, & size 1 shoes
~LOVES her "Sophie" the Giraffe & has started sleeping with a small lovey
~Lila has lots to say...she's quite the babbler. Can make the "ma", "la" & "ba" sounds
~Prefers her thumb exclusively...no longer using a pacifier
~Has yet to acquire a taste for cereal. Will introduce veggies next week.
~Passes toys from one hand to another
~Drags objects toward herself
~Everything goes to her mouth!

To Infinity & Beyond...

2011-05-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

Our sweet boy is turning 2!!! So in honor of his special day, we celebrated with a Toy Story themed birthday bash. Thankfully, the weather cooperated beautifully, so all of the miniature party-goers were able to enjoy some fun in the sun. I can't believe that 2 years ago, our precious Cy was born & our lives were changed forever...for the better! Cy Wesley, you are such a sweet-spirited, smart, funny, handsome & loving little man. You have brought more joy to our family than we could have possibly imagined! We are thankful daily that God chose us to be your parents & pray continually that he will help you grow healthy & strong, grant you many days, & most of all, give you a heart that desires a relationship with Him. We love you more than you could know! Happy 2nd Birthday, Cy!!!

Line 'em up...Cy is really into carrying around groups of similar toys right now (ie: animals, trucks, balls, blocks, puzzle pieces, etc), and loves to line them up in a perfectly straight line. Could he have a touch of OCD like Momma & Papa??? Highly likely.

Lila Grace enjoying some QT with Mamaw...and the shade!

Fun with bubbles...

Lori & Claire Burk

Kase Romero...so handsome!

Hannah Mae- 22 months

Birthday Boy!

Diving in...wouldn't want to get his hands dirty!

Thatcher Christ...another cutie patootie!

Davida & Hattie- 6 months

Mother's Day Weekend...

2011-05-08T18:19:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Mother's Day by enjoying a fabulous fish fry and belated Easter Egg Hunt, with my family, at Mamaw & Papaw's house. My grandmother's yard is absolutely gorgeous (as you can see) so of course, I took lots of photos of the little ones in the beautiful setting!

This is probably my favorite picture of our baby girl to date. This expression is so Lila...such a sweet, happy little lady!

Lila Grace & Hattie- 5 months old

Cy & Joey- 23 months

Fun with Ellie...

2011-05-02T21:54:00.001-07:00

There's never a shortage of smiles, squeals and giggles whenever Cy and Ellie get together at Gigi & Pop's house.

Meanwhile, Lila enjoyed some quality time with Pop.

Bathing Buddies...

2011-04-30T19:21:00.000-07:00

Cy and Lila took a bath together for the first time tonight & had so much fun splashing about. Cy acts completely giddy whenever he gets to do ordinary things with his little sister...laying with Lila in her crib, reading books together, when Lila sits on Momma & Papa's bed & watches her big brother as he plays in the pillows, & now getting to be bathing buddies! It thrills him to no end that Lila Grace is becoming such a fun playmate now that she has started sitting up. And it thrills this proud momma to see how very much our little lovebugs adore each other!

5 Months...Sitting Up & Starting Solids

2011-04-26T09:09:00.000-07:00

Our baby girl is 5 months old & hard at work at learning all kinds of new tricks! She's able to sit up unassisted for longer and longer periods of time each day, and after putting off starting solids because we've been so busy with the move, she's now given rice cereal a try. I can't say that she's a big fan, nor can I say that much of it has made it to her little tummy, but Lila Grace definitely gets an "A" for effort. Here's what Lila is up to at 5 months old...

~Starting to jabber away. I hear "m's" a lot. Putting my money on "Momma" being her first word :)
~Just moved up to Size 2 Swaddlers
~Wearing 3-6 month clothes (6 mo. Ralph Lauren)
~Still sporting size 0 shoes- most the time she's shoeless or wearing "Toe Blooms"
~Takes 3 naps a day. Morning & early afternoon usually last 1.5-2 hrs, then she takes a short power nap around 4 or 5 pm for 30-45 min.
~Drinks 4- 8 oz. bottles a day
~Lila has the most adorable giggle & loves to laugh at silly sounds or faces.
~She kicks her feet & raises her arms when she wants to be picked up.
~One of my very favorite parts of the day is when I go to get her out of her crib in the morning. As soon as she spots me, she gives me a huge grin...just melts this momma's heart!
~We've only attempted cereal, up to this point, but plan to incorporate veggies soon.

Easter Weekend- Part II

2011-04-24T15:56:00.001-07:00

Today, we had lunch with Travis' family. The weather was absolutely gorgeous so I was able to capture many photos of the kiddos outside collecting their eggs. Easter is such a special holiday for both of our families, as we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord, and enjoy another opportunity to be together. It's crazy to think that this time last year, Travis and I had just found out that we were expecting Lila Grace!

Throwing his coins in the fountain...

Easter Weekend- Part I

2011-04-24T15:17:00.000-07:00

Our fun-filled Easter weekend began with the annual Hughes Egg Hunt at my grandparents' house. We enjoyed great food, lots of play time on the Rhino, 4 wheeler and riding lawn tractor, an egg hunt, and the kids were even visited by the Easter bunny, himself! Good times!

So In Love!

2011-04-18T19:51:00.000-07:00

I'm sure that most of you mommies will echo my sentiments, but I am absolutely, positively, without a doubt, head over heels, utterly & completely smitten with my little man! I think he just might be the sweetest, smartest, funniest, most kind, thoughtful & handsome 2 year old (well, just nearly) that I have ever met! He keeps me in stitches, amazes me with his exploding vocabulary & how quickly he is learning, and touches my heart in places I never knew existed with his loving spirit. I am so in love!!!

Cy has been putting 2,3,4 words together at a time as of late. Here are some of my favorite phrases.

"Momma's, Bed...Fy (Fly)"- He wants me to throw him up into the pillows on our bed
"Mash Toes"- mashed potatoes
"See, Birds, Outside"
"It's Comin'" & "Wait, Wait"- as he turns the handle on his jack in the box expectantly
"Momma, Feet"- what he says when he wants to raise the foot rest on the recliner for me when I'm feeding Lila.
"Damp's Dows"- Gramps' cows
"Momma, Tent & the name of a toy of his choice"- He loves for me to join him and whichever toy has struck his fancy, at that particular moment, in his play tent, in our basement.
"Go, Mimi & Damps' House" or "Go, Gigi's House"
"Poppa, Bed...See me!"- when he wants to get in bed with Poppa
and my very favorite: "Momma, Hold you...sit." He says these sweet words on rare occasions when he wakes up in the middle of the night parched and needs some water and a bit of cuddle time with Momma, in Cy's big boy bed. :)

I LOVE YOU, CY WESLEY!!!

Sitting Up!

2011-04-17T16:15:00.000-07:00

Lila Grace has followed in her Momma's footsteps- sitting up at 4 1/2 months. She's a bit wobbly, but can officially sit up unassisted! Such a big girl!!!

Notice her big brother providing some encouragement. :)

"Guns Up!"

Happy 2nd Birthday, Ellie Kate!

2011-04-16T18:38:00.000-07:00

Our niece, Ellie, turned 2 today & last night we were able to help celebrate her special day with a Minnie Mouse themed party. Cassie did an amazing job decorating...everything looked so cute and all the kids had a blast. Happy Birthday, Ellie Kate!!!

Lila Grace pre-party. Thanks, Gigi for the adorable outfit!

Testing out Ellie's new slide...

Group shot...okay now, everyone sit real still & say cheese!??!!! :)
L to R: Abbye, Aidan, Zaylee, Ellie, Anson & Cy

Attempt #2...don't forget Lila!

Kagney, Zaylee & Abbye

Having too much fun. Who could resist this sweet smile??? :)

Laughter is the Best Medicine...

2011-04-13T07:11:00.000-07:00

Cy Wesley has the sweetest laugh & is absolutely adorable when he gets really tickled. Case in point, here he is playing with Momma's iPhone & thoroughly entertaining his audience!

...then later playing peek-a-boo with Papa.

Cy's Top 10 List...

2011-04-10T17:44:00.001-07:00

Our little guy LOVES to read! I want to remember his very favorite stories that are enjoyed over & over again throughout our day. Here are Cy Wesley's top picks:

#10) "Put Me in the Zoo" by Robert Lopshire- also one of my favorites growing up

#9) "Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?" by Bill Martin & Eric Carle

#8) "How Do Dinosaurs Clean Their Rooms?" by Jane Yolen & Mark Teague

#7) "I Love You Through & Through" by Bernadette Rossetti-Shustak- another of Mom's favorites because the message is so sweet & the illustrations look like my blonde, spikey-haired lovebug!

#6) "Good Night Gorilla" by Peggy Rathmann

#5) "We're Going On A Bear Hunt" by Michael Rosen

#4) "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle

#3) "Jesse Bear What Will You Wear" by Nancy White Carlstrom

#2) "Tugga Tugga Tugboat" by Kevin Lewis (or "Tugboat" as Cy affectionately calls it)

Another title by the same author that definitely receives an honorable mention nod is "Chugga Chugga Choo Choo".

and Cy's Numero Uno Choice...

#1) "Where The Wild Things Are" by Maurice Sendak (aka: "Monsters")- without question, this title clinches the top spot. Most days, reading this book is the first thing on his agenda when he wakes up and we read it several more times before he goes to bed. Good thing it's also Mom's favorite :)

...and any book about tractors, trucks or farm animals!

Lila's 4 (1/2) Month Stats...

2011-04-08T17:02:00.000-07:00

Our pretty girl received excellent marks at her 4 month well check today. Dr. Guetersloh gave us the green light to start solid foods, which I've put off since we've been so busy with the move. With the exception of her watery eyes (which should improve or resolve by 6-8 months), Lila Grace is a very healthy baby girl who has successfully checked off all of her current milestones. Here are her 4 (1/2) month stats:

Weight: 12 lbs 15 oz (25%)
Height: 24" (50%)
Head Circumference: 15.8" (25%)

Two of a Kind

2011-04-07T11:14:00.000-07:00

My brother and I don't really look a lot alike and since Travis is adopted, he and Cassie don't resemble each other either. So it has been really fun having children who favor one another so much...more and more by the day, in fact! And even more fun, watching these sweet siblings interact with each other.

"Hey, Lila...check out this ball."

Cy definitely wins Lila's vote for "Most Entertaining"!

Sitting up like a big girl!

Cool, Dude!

2011-04-06T08:16:00.001-07:00

Cy enjoys sporting his Papa's shades while declaring "Cool, Dude!"...so cute!

Playing with & lining up bottles is one of his favorite pass times these days.

Our little expolorer loves his new play set!

Little Miss Lila Grace...

2011-04-05T17:26:00.000-07:00

Busy Momma Recipe: World's Best Lasagna

2011-03-28T21:44:00.000-07:00

I don't know who deemed this lasagna "World's Best", but this recipe is pretty darn good & certainly ranks among the best in my culinary arsenal. It definitely has a restaurant quality about it...yummy!

World's Best Lasagna

1 lb sweet Italian Sausage
3/4 lb lean ground beef
1/2 c minced onion
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
2 (6 oz) cans tomato paste
2 (6.5 oz) cans canned tomato sauce
1/2 c water
2 Tbsp white sugar
1 1/2 tsp dried basil leaves
1/2 tsp fennel seeds
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
4 Tbsp chopped, fresh parsley
12 lasagna noodles
16 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 lb mozzarella cheese, sliced
3/4 c grated Parmesan cheese

In a Dutch oven, cook sausage, ground beef, onion, & garlic over medium heat until well browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, & water. Season with sugar, basil, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper & 2 Tbsp parsley. Simmer, covered, for about 1 1/2 hrs, stirring occasionally.

Bring large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles in boiling water for 8-10 min. Drain noodles, rinse with cold water. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with egg, remaining parsley, and 1/2 tsp salt.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

To assemble, spread 1 1/2 c meat sauce in bottom of 9x13 baking dish. Arrange noodles lengthwise over meat sauce. Spread with 1/2 of ricotta cheese mixture. Top with a third of mozzarella cheese slices. Spoon 1 1/2 c. meat sauce over mozzarella, and sprinkle with 1/4 c Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers, and top with remaining mozzarella & Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil; to prevent sticking, either spray foil with cooking spray, or make sure the foil does not touch the cheese.

Bake in preheated oven for 25 min. Remove foil and bake an additional 25 min. Cool for 15 min before serving.

Another Week in Pictures...

2011-03-24T11:02:00.000-07:00

Enjoying some lovin' from Gramps & Mimi...

Having fun with Papa's birthday balloons...

...and a few more kisses.

4 Months Old!!!

2011-03-21T11:44:00.001-07:00

4 months with our sweet Lila Grace, and she has brought more joy to our family than our hearts can hold!!! I've said it so many times, but she is such a happy baby giving us lots of smiles and giggles throughout each day. She LOVES her big brother, who holds her attention the majority of the time. It's so fun to watch them interact more and more as she gets older. Here's what our big girl is up to at 4 months old...

~Drinking 6-8 oz per feeding (8am, 11am, 2-3pm & 6pm)
~Sleeps 12-13 hrs at night. Usually wakes around 8am and goes to bed between 7 & 8pm.
~Takes 3 naps. Her morning & afternoon naps last between 1-1.5 hrs, then she takes a 30-45 minute cat nap in the late afternoon.
~Loves her baths, kicking & splashing about, & smiling all the while :)
~Has started giggling & makes a high-pitched squeal when she needs to get your attention.
~Rolls from tummy to back
~Can raise herself up straight armed & keeps her feet raised off the floor while on her tummy.
~Grasps rattles & hanging toys
~Can bear weight on both legs
~Is getting really good at sitting up while just slightly supported & playing with toys
~Wearing size 1-2 Swaddlers & size 3-6 month clothes
~Her eyes still water quite a bit & it looks like she may have more allergies than Cy, but nonetheless, we take every opportunity to get outside and enjoy the gorgeous Spring weather.

Lucky Charms...

2011-03-17T21:31:00.001-07:00

Busy Momma Recipe: Traditional Shrimp Etouffee

2011-03-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

Travis turns 32 tomorrow!!! So in honor of my amazing husband's big day, I thought I would post one of his favorite meals- Shrimp Etouffee. This recipe comes from Southern Living and will not disappoint. Happy Birthday, Baby!!!

Traditional Shrimp Etouffee

1 c. uncooked long-grain rice
10 Tbsp butter, divided
1 lb. frozen, cooked, peeled, thawed & drained shrimp (can also use crawfish)
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3 celery ribs, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
6 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
2 3/4 c. chicken broth
1/4 c. chopped green onions
2 Tbsp chopped, fresh parsley
1 Tbsp. salt-free Cajun seasoning
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground red pepper

Prepare rice according to package directions.

Melt 4 Tbsp. butter in large Dutch oven over medium-high heat; add crawfish, and cook 5 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Remove shrimp, and keep warm.

Add onion, bell pepper, & celery to Dutch oven. Cook over medium-high heat 8 minutes or until tender. add garlic, and cook 1 minute. Remove vegetables, and keep warm.

Melt remaining 6 Tbsp. butter in Dutch oven over medium heat. Add flour, and cook, stirring constantly 10-15 minutes or until caramel colored. Reduce heat to low, and gradually stir in chicken broth & next 5 ingredients. Cook over medium heat 10 minutes or until slightly thickened. Stir in vegetables and shrimp; cook 5 minutes more. Serve with rice. Makes 6 servings.

Papa's Little Helper...

2011-03-12T22:11:00.000-08:00

Travis completed several "honey-do" projects this weekend. Lucky for him, Cy was happy to provide some much needed assistance. :)

Lila and I supervised...

Grateful Heart!

2011-03-12T10:34:00.001-08:00

Thank you so much to everyone who has called, text or emailed to leave messages of concern, and most importantly, prayed for my family this past week! Your love and support mean more than you could possibly know. For those of you who don't know, my sweet Daddy had a heart attack on Tuesday. Thankfully, he received treatment quickly! He had 3 stents placed on Tuesday and 3 more Thursday. Daddy is now home and doing really well. There is nothing like almost losing someone you can't bare to imagine life without to give renewed perspective. Even writing this now, I'm fighting back tears...I am such a Daddy's girl! Please, PLEASE never miss an opportunity to tell those you love just how much they mean to you. Thank you, Lord, for granting healing so that you may be glorified!!!

The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble.
He cares for those who trust in him. Nahum 1:7
We have so many reasons to be joyful...Happy Spring, Everyone!

New Digs!

2011-03-06T17:48:00.000-08:00

Yes, the Eppersons are moving...for sure this time! Travis and I both had the moving bug following our last venture and were able to find a wonderful house that we both feel will be the perfect fit for our family for many years to come. We close at the end of this month! Needless to say, we are super excited & Dave Ramsey would be a little less disappointed in us! Here are a few photos of our new home. :)

Living Room

Kitchen (clearly!)

Informal Dining/Breakfast Nook

Dining Room

Master Bedroom

Master Bath

Cy Wesley's Bedroom...love the wall color!

Cy's Bathroom

Soon-to-be Lila's Room...

Lila's Bathroom

Will be our Office...& the only room that we plan to paint. :)

Utility

Basement/Play Room

Back yard...play set is staying :)

Bathing Beauty...

2011-03-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

How about another fun comparison- Cy Wesley rub-a-dub-dubbin' at 3 months...

And back to our sweet girl...

Very interested in her hands...

CHEESE!

2011-02-28T09:49:00.001-08:00

Kisses from Hannah...

Milestones...

2011-02-25T09:31:00.001-08:00

Both Cy and Lila have been working on some developmental milestones this week. Lila Grace rolled from her tummy to her back for the first time (proceeded by the second, third, fourth...let's just say, she got the hang of it quickly!) this morning. She even earned some style points by rolling both directions...such a big girl!
Here's a quick video clip of her in action...

And if the incessant drooling is any indication, Cy's 2 year molars are coming in. He will soon be the proud owner of all 20 primary teeth! This next picture isn't really depicting a milestone, but rather a genetic jackpot, of sorts. :) Cy Wesley has the most gorgeous, long, thick, curly lashes!