Just another DIY chalkboard

If you've been using the internet for the last five minutes you've likely been introduced to the wonder of chalkboard paint and DIY chalkboards. If you are in pinterest you've probably seen 39 different versions of them. I figured, who would I be to deny our home of this DIY treasure?


Behold---our sweet little menu chalkboard. Who used to be a mirror until my $7 can of chalkboard spray paint got a hold of him.

The best thing about this? The cute orange chevron ribbon it hangs from which I ordered here.

The worst thing? I opted to use chalk pens from Hobby Lobby and am having some real removal issues when it comes time to update our menu. I think next time I'll stick with old fashioned chalk.

thirty

After officially celebrating my thirtieth birthday this past Wednesday I realized...

I am 30 years old and I literally have everything I ever wanted. How lucky am I? Who does that happen to?!

I have a husband who loves me even though I can drive him absolutely bananas. Two beautiful children who make my heart flutter at every glance. A house we've worked hard to make a home. And a job that I adore.

I have parents who love and support me. Friends that I swear I will take to my death bed. And more than that, I feel like I really know who I am now.

I'm proud of the fact that I can speak my mind and that I'm not afraid of confrontation. I'm proud that I've lost the baby weight. Twice. And that I can wear tight black leggings without being completely ashamed of myself.

This year I want to give back to the people who have given so much of themselves to me- especially while we were in the hospital. I want to be a more attentive wife, a more present friend, and a more engaged mother. I want to spend more time writing handwritten notes and reading books and less time wasting time.

My twenties were really good to me (exhibit A). But my thirties are going to be even better. I can feel it.

So what happens after all of your dreams come true? I guess I'm about to find out :)

A conversation with my daughter

The other night Madelyn and I were enjoying a rare dinner alone while the boys played upstairs so I thought I'd take the opportunity to find out what she's up to at daycare these days. You can hardly imagine how hard I had to fight back the laughter when the below conversation ensued. By the way, she is two.

Me (a mother who is trying to raise a gracious, polite daughter): So what did you guys do at school today?
Aforementioned daughter: Nathan went to time out because he said "oh shit"

Me: Oh really? You know we don't say that word, right?
Madelyn: We don't say "oh shit" mommy?

Me: No, sweetie, we can say "uh oh" or "oopsie" instead
Madelyn: Only boys say "oh shit" mommy?

Me: No Madelyn, not boys and not girls, nobody says that
Madelyn: Ok mommy, I won't say "oh shit"

End scene.

My girls never disappoint

Earlier today I sent the below email to my three closest girlfriends and within 16 minutes (16!) they had all responded saying they were in.

My girls never disappoint.


K, D, and M

As we know I am about to turn 30 in a few weeks.

I am the mother of TWO children. I spend my evenings washing bottles and clipping coupons in a suburban town with only a new Longhorn Steakhouse to offer for outside entertainment. While I truly wouldn't trade any of it for the world, it's time this mama takes a break and gets back to her bourbon and sprite drinking roots. You know the ones I'm talking about.

My dad has graciously offered me up a trip to NEW YORK for my birthday. Currently just my mom and I are going but I would LOVE for ya'll to join if you can. I know life is crazy and we are grown ups with jobs and bills and babies (hi sweet Kate!), but it wouldn't be the same without you there.

My flights are booked. I'm going up on Sunday, April 22 and flying back Wednesday, April 25. We are going to stay at a hotel on the south-end of the city by my sister, hopefully all in one room :)

Currently on the agenda: long brunches with lots of mimosas, shopping (only to be interrupted by a stop in a bar for a glass of wine or champagne), possibly a Broadway show, guacamole at Dos Caminos, bloody marys at the Boathouse, and other generally girly activities.

Let me know if you are interested!
Jenn

The return to work

Today was my last day of maternity leave so I spent as much time as possible snuggling with this guy.

I don't have time to write, of course, because I'm too busy having panic attacks/crying my eyes out/counting down until I get home tomorrow evening/ and praising myself for not being too dramatic.

Right.

But seriously, it will be the first time I've been away from these thighs for more than a few hours. I think we'd all agree that's worth a few tears.

And that smile. Oh, that smile.

(Get a grip, Mom. I'll be fine.)