tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35996001081365471622024-03-12T19:35:30.854-07:00more than sparrowstwo sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-15190882247286020642016-09-01T13:51:00.001-07:002016-09-01T13:51:30.182-07:00End of Summer with Rad Swim (Giveaway)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You guys! I can't believe summer is coming to a close. Where did it go?! I feel like I say that every year but with kids I feel like the time especially flies by. We had an amazing summer of seeing family, lake days with friends, late night swing set playing and a few amazing vacations sprinkled in there too. My hubby and I were out of this world blessed to be able to take a trip to Cabo San Lucas (alone!!) for a week. It was incredible! Pictures don't do it justice and it was just such a much needed relaxing time after a few pretty stressful months...it was an amazing way to kick off the summer! Obviously bathing suits were high on the list of what I needed to pack, and I could NOT wait to whip out my newest <a href="http://www.radswim.com/" target="_blank">Rad Swim</a> piece, the <a href="http://www.radswim.com/shop/julia" target="_blank">Krystal</a>! This bathing suit is not your average one piece people! This suit screams romantic-getaway-with-your-hubby-in-Mexico :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of my favorite things about this suit is how well made it is! I tend to shy away from white suits for the sheer fact that they're (no pun intended) sheer! This is lined so well and even when you're in and out of the water it's never see through. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another thing I love about this suit is the detail. The front fringe, the gold, that strappy back, the lines and gold halter! I love the complexity of it without it being too busy on the eye. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I also lived in head wraps while we were in Mexico-this one was my favorite! I had a few for sale a few months back but tucked one away for today's giveaway! So if you missed out, today's your chance to get your hands on one. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most beautiful views, weather, flowers, everything. I cannot wait to go back!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As if this suit couldn't get better, did you know it comes in a MINI version?!?! Are. You. Kidding. Me. As soon as Michelle, the sweet and talented woman behind Rad Swim sent the package, I couldn't wait to tear it open and try the <a href="http://www.radswim.com/shop/little-krystal" target="_blank">Little Krystal</a> on my girls!! HOW CUTE!? She didn't skimp on detailing on the little suits either-they're 100% identical to the adult version which makes it even more adorable. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sweetest sisters (and note the chocolate ice cream on the bum;) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">YAY for summer!!! I love these suits so much and even more so love Michelle and her amazing company. She is legit one of the kindest, most generous people I have ever worked with! Her company and values are something I love supporting, and know you will too! She has so kindly agreed to give away one of her FAB <a href="http://www.radswim.com/shop/julia" target="_blank">Krystal</a> suits to one of you, and I'm throwing in this neon headwrap AND a coral felt bow! To enter, make sure you comment on instagram and tag a friend who you think would love <a href="http://www.radswim.com/" target="_blank">Rad Swim</a> & Two Sparrows! xo</span></div>
<br /><br />two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-82383294741666893112016-04-05T13:16:00.000-07:002016-04-05T14:57:36.170-07:00Let's Get Personal. <br />
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So, I typically use this space to share about giveaways or upcoming collections for Two Sparrows, or pretty much anything related to my business. Today, I'm getting personal. For a few reasons, but mostly because I am a woman who is also a mom and a wife and I know I cannot be the only one who has gone through some of the struggles that I've gone through the last few months. I'm sharing a little bit more than the surface top of my life to you because if by some chance you are going through what I've been through, I want you to know you're not alone, and you're not crazy. And that I can relate!<br />
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(Judgement free zone, people)<br />
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The fall/winter holidays are always a stressful time, am I right? Sure they're great and if anyone loves all the hustle and bustle of it all it's me. I love decorating, planning, surprising people with gifts, thinking about what will make my kids face light up on Christmas morning, cutting down a Christmas tree, and helping my kids learn about giving and Jesus' birth. But for some reason this past holiday season our family was slammed (like, sledgehammer slammed) with sickness. One thing after another, with no end in sight. My girls had coughs for like 80 years, which turned into a trip to the hospital and RSV & croup and long term nebluzer treatments. As if that wasn't enough, Christmas eve I started breaking out in random hives all over my body and feeling funny. Woke up in the middle of the night with my eyes swollen shut and a trip to urgent care on Christmas day with a diagnosis of pink eye. What fun! The weeks to follow would bring strep throat, ear infections, random viruses and, sorry if this is TMI, (but hey, I told you it would be personal) but the absolute WORST (and only) UTI I have ever had in my life. I think between January-March I may have spent $1,000 in medical bills for my girls and myself, and approximately 20 trips to the pediatrician or my doctor or the hospital or urgent care. In between this time, I didn't realize it but my body was so run down from stress (stress? why would I be stressed?) that without knowing it I was making my body worse and continuing my downward spiral of sickness.<br />
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Long story short, all of this not only had my body run down but it opened the doorway to anxiety. I have always been an anxious person somewhat, with some things making it worse than others. But I've also always been the kind of person who wants to handle it herself, and asking for help is something that has not always come easily for me. Over the past few months, my struggle with anxiety affected every aspect of my life in a severely negative way...from my relationship with my husband, the way I parented my girls, and just functioning as a normal human being. Because I was so anxious, my body was manifesting all of these new and weird symptoms (major chest pain at random times, migraines, feeling lightheaded, tingling feet and face) that I had never had before, and ofcourse not knowing what it was made my anxiety all that much worse. I had days where I just cried because I felt totally insane. Am I really having these symptoms or is it in my head? Am I dying? Am I having a heart attack? All while feeling like no one fully understood what I was going through. Which if you have struggled with anxiety in the past, you know that it can feel incredibly isolating and scary.<br />
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Being totally run down & struggling with such bad anxiety, I did a ton (a ton) of research on what would help me gain control over this crazy thing. I forced myself to reach out to friends and family and let them know what was going on. Turns out a lot more people were in the same shoes as I was, and while it may not have been identical situations, allowing myself to share my struggles ended up opening up conversations with friends struggling with the same thing...and I never would have known it otherwise. Amazing what happens when we choose to be vulnerable with each other :)<br />
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I made some radical changes in my health the past few months, and while I can't say things are perfect by any means, I can see how these changes have affected my life positively and set me on a road to gain more control over my body-physically and emotionally. Everyone is different, but things that have helped me tremendously especially with anxiety have been:<br />
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-Exercise...yoga is AMAZING. It was eye opening to sit in a class and realize I didn't know the last time I had just focused on my own breathing and relaxed in complete silence for 10 whole minutes.<br />
-Diet...before all of the craziness went down, my diet was terrible. Carbs, ice cream, coffee, wine, repeat. I wouldn't take the time to meal prep or think that maybe instead of that 6th cup of coffee I should go to bed an hour or two earlier. It's not easy, but being strict with my diet has helped me feel more steady as a person and less caffeine has helped me not be so anxious.<br />
-Sleep....I always felt like I could be most productive at night when my girls were in bed. And while that may be true, all nighters are not for this 29 year old body anymore because I end up paying for it later (and insert the tired, coffee, anxiety cycle here).<br />
-Essential Oils. I have to admit you guys, I'm always a skeptic when it comes to certain things and when my mom had first mentioned oils to me I wasn't completely on board. She started giving me a few here and there to try and I honestly was amazed at how much they were helping me. No, they are not a "cure all" or a magic pill that will heal you of all disease and problem forever and ever amen, but I can personally testify that they have helped me. With physical things (lavender & frankincense for pink eye you guys, I'm telling you), and even more with emotional things (Joy & Stress Away all day every day). They have been so beneficial to me and my family in our every day life and I love not only using them on my body but swapping out all of my toxic cleaners and replacing them with essential oil cleaners that I know are safe around my kiddos and won't add to any issues I have going on inside my body already.<br />
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I'm sharing all of this with you because I've been there, and I'm grateful for those that have shared so transparently with me and made me feel like I wasn't crazy. I'm hosting a free online class on the basics of essential oils TOMORROW at 8pm and would love for you to join me! There is absolutely no pressure or ulterior motive other than I hope you find encouragement through this post and also through using essential oils as I have so greatly! If you're interested in the class, email me at twosparrowsheadbands@gmail.com and I'll send you the invite! I promise you'll learn something new and I won't be boring or lame :)<br />
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Lastly, I'm giving out just a few of my favorite basic black hair scarves! If you attend the class tomorrow night, you'll be automatically entered to win one and on top of that anyone who joins my team THIS MONTH will get one shipped right to their house on the spot. I really love these hair scarves, they're so basic and versatile and great for everyday wear.<br />
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Thank you guys so much for taking the time to stop by and listen to me ramble on about my issues :) I appreciate realness & authenticity in others and hope others see that in me also. I really appreciate the dedication and support that so many of you have given me and I know for a while things were pretty quiet around here! Hopefully not only will this shed some light on that but will spark a fire into healthy living for you too if you're on a similar path! xo<br />
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<br />two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-30774305914195138302016-03-14T09:04:00.001-07:002016-03-14T09:04:25.945-07:00Faces of Two Sparrows: LEAH<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So excited to start this blog series off with my childhood bestie, Leah! This girl and I have been through it all...from being annoying little squealy girls to finding our way through the crazy times of junior high and high school, college, dating, getting married, and now watching our own kids grow up together! Since my family and I moved, we don't live super close to each other anymore, but the time we do have is precious and we make it count. Leah and her two adorable little boys were able to come spend a night with us last week and we had so much fun catching up, and ofcourse chatting about some Two Sparrows :) Leah's style is awesome, she makes being a mom look good while not giving up on comfort or having to spend hours getting ready, which is every mom's goal am I right? I loved the way she styled our striped turban with her Converse sneakers and jean jacket-so cute and comfy! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hope you enjoy getting to know Leah a little bit better and reading why she likes to incorporate Two Sparrows into her wardrobe! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Tell us three things about yourself:</b> I'm a stay-at-home mom of 2 little boys; I'm a lifestyle photographer on the side; my mom is a hair stylist so I'm constantly changing my hair up and TS works with every style I have!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Describe your current style: </b>My current style would be described as "easy" :) As a busy mom of 2, I'm usually trying to quickly get out of the house in something relatively comfortable. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>How often do you wear Two Sparrows? Are there any specific places or events you like to wear our hair accessories?</b> I wear TS as much as I can! The turbans and head scarfs are perfect for running errands and going to the playground. Whenever I have a session or event to photograph, I dress up my hair with a braided headband or a custom clip. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Tell us why you wear Two Sparrows and why you think other people should too:</b> I wear TS because I can find a piece to go w any outfit I own. They're super comfortable and easy to use, and I love trying new hairstyles w them. I think that others should wear TS pieces because they're missing out if they don't! They're so versatile and fun - try it out!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Do you have a favorite collection from our past collections?</b> I looooove the basics collection! And my custom clips of course. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Who is your style icon, or what is your favorite style?</b> Lately I've been loving vintage and rockabilly styles. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Since Leah looks so dang good in our striped turban, I'm offering these turbans at FORTY PERCENT OFF today only in my shop while supplies lasts. You can purchase one <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/256027211/fall-turbans-striped-only?ref=shop_home_active_4" target="_blank">here!</a> No code necessary. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Happy Monday!! </span></div>
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two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-40690054974157917822015-12-02T06:33:00.000-08:002015-12-02T06:33:07.921-08:00Snack time with Resqueeze <br />
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My girls LOVE snacks. Like, they ask for a "snack" as soon as they wake up in the morning, and then they rush through breakfast and triumphantly announce that they're done and proceed to ask for a snack. I'm not sure what it is-the novelty of something other than what they should be eating (a meal) or that it usually consists of something carb related in which case, can you blame them? ;)<br />
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Recently I've been trying to encourage more fruits/vegetables/protein into their diet when they ask for something in between meals, and they always get so excited when I let them have anything that involves a pouch or a squeeze packet or something unique and fun. So when I first saw these <a href="http://www.resqueeze.com/" target="_blank">Resqueeze</a> reusable pouches on the market I knew my girls would flip over them! And they so did. They loved the process of filling up the pouches and taking the tops off themselves (and putting them on, and taking them off, and putting them on...), and I was happy to see them devour something nutritious and healthy.<br />
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Here we used just regular applesauce to fill them, but on the <a href="http://www.resqueeze.com/" target="_blank">Resqueeze</a> website theres tons of <a href="http://www.resqueeze.com/blogs/recipes" target="_blank">recipes</a> for creative ideas of what to fill the pouches with. Later this week I plan on filling my girls pouches with plain greek yogurt & honey to take to preschool as their morning snack. I also plan on trying the <a href="http://www.resqueeze.com/blogs/recipes/33801220-resqueeze-pouch-recipe-peanut-butter-shake" target="_blank">Peanut Butter Shake</a> and <a href="http://www.resqueeze.com/blogs/recipes/12249201-resqueeze-pouch-recipe-greensicle-smoothie" target="_blank">Greensicle Smoothie</a> from the website. Such a better alternative to a store bought milkshake or popsicle, and tons of fun for your kiddo. </div>
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Ofcourse one of the main things I love about this genius product is that it's reusable, so not only is it saving me tons of money on those overpriced pouches from the store, but that the ingredients are fresh and that you know each and every ingredient that goes into them. These are BPA Free, dishwasher friendly, and can be frozen! If you have a little one who is just starting solids, the <a href="http://www.resqueeze.com/products/9-oz-resqueeze-4-pack" target="_blank">9 ounce</a> pouch would be great for freezing pureed veggies and fruits and just popping them out of the freezer when needed. Or if you have kiddos like mine who want to snack 24/7, why not freeze a bunch of the <a href="http://www.resqueeze.com/products/copy-of-copy-of-resqueeze-pouch-set-of-4-pouches" target="_blank">6 ounce</a> packets filled with smoothies as a quick go to when they're getting that 4pm hangry tone in their voice (moms of toddlers, you know the one.)<br />
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Make sure to head over to my instagram today to win a pack of these pouches! These make awesome baby shower gifts and even stocking stuffers for your little ones this Christmas.<br />
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Happy Snacking :) </div>
<br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">**Thanks to <a href="http://www.resqueeze.com/" target="_blank">Resqueeze</a> for partnering with us in this post! <br />**All photos by <a href="http://www.nancynoble.com/">nancy noble photography</a></span><br /><br />
<br />two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-14275934153990092902015-07-31T14:00:00.000-07:002015-07-31T14:00:46.086-07:00Rad Swim (Giveaway)<br />
<span id="goog_1795027912"></span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oy17KRhBHAg/VbvVETWTACI/AAAAAAAAA6I/Bh_ZZrkR5Jo/s1600/DSC_5095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oy17KRhBHAg/VbvVETWTACI/AAAAAAAAA6I/Bh_ZZrkR5Jo/s640/DSC_5095.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ktB2sNgKN4Y/VbvU-aAFCrI/AAAAAAAAA6A/9krHfoB2b3Q/s1600/DSC_5089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ktB2sNgKN4Y/VbvU-aAFCrI/AAAAAAAAA6A/9krHfoB2b3Q/s640/DSC_5089.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">SUCH A FUN GIVEAWAY for you guys today!! I have teamed up with <a href="http://www.radswim.com/" target="_blank">Rad Swim</a>, an awesome swimwear company owned by a genius and wildly successful mama and business owner. You can read more about her and the company <a href="http://www.radswim.com/about/" target="_blank">here</a>. And a huge thank you to my bestie of 20+ years for using her skills to capture the fun we had in photos! She followed me & my busy girls around all morning and captured my vision for this shoot so well! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Let's just talk about my girls swimsuits for a second-I mean really? And if you weren't already blown away by the cuteness of the </span><a href="http://www.radswim.com/shop/little-kylee" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Little Kylee</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, look here to find the matching (yes matching) </span><a href="http://www.radswim.com/shop/kylee" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">Kylee</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> for adults. Can't even take it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">These suits are even more adorable in person- seriously they are AMAZING. I constantly have trouble finding suits that fit me right and are flattering as I have a long torso, short legs, and lets face it- a few extra things that are less than desirable since becoming a mom ;) When I got the <a href="http://www.radswim.com/shop/holly" target="_blank">Nicole Suit</a> the mail I ripped it open and tried it on the second I got it and literally fell in love. The coverage is amazing, the front tassel detail gives uniqueness to a simple black one piece, and it's detachable halter strap makes it so versatile. It's pretty much the best little black dress of swimsuits!</span></div>
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There are a lot of things that I've always valued as important when raising kids, but one of the specific things that has been a goal of mine and my husband's is to raise them to be modest. I truly believe it's important that even at the young age of 3, my girls see the value of respecting their bodies and showing modesty especially when wearing bathing suits. One thing I absolutely LOVE about Rad Swim is that all of their suits are super modest, but they're all SO AMAZINGLY CUTE. I had the option of picking which suit I wanted to review for this blog post, and truly I agonized over which one to pick haha! <a href="http://www.radswim.com/shop/taylor" target="_blank">This</a> one and <a href="http://www.radswim.com/shop/holly-1" target="_blank">this</a> one were both ones I was considering along with the Nicole (and all of the others pretty much;)<br />
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The way I see it, if I can go to a beach, splash pad, and playground with my toddlers and not have to tug or pull on it in any way, and still manage to look put together by the end, it passes ALL the tests.<br />
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I'm beyond thrilled to be teaming up with Michelle of Rad Swim to give away ONE of the killer <a href="http://www.radswim.com/shop/holly" target="_blank">Nicole</a> suits today as well as one of my coral hair scarves and a set of beaded bracelets! Here's what you have to do:<br />
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1. Follow @radswim and @twosparrowsheadbands on instagram if you aren't already!<br />
2. Tag a friend, tell them they need this suit/headband/bracelet combo!<br />
3. Do a cartwheel/roundoff/handstand combo (extra credit, obviously).<br />
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That's it! Winner will be notified through instagram ONE WEEK from today.<br />
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All photos courtesy of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/leah.spina.photography?fref=ts" target="_blank">Leah Spina Photography</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">This post was graciously sponsored by Rad Swim but all opinions on their products are completely my own. </span></div>
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<br />two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-42989264336839238752015-07-22T12:38:00.000-07:002015-07-22T12:38:15.658-07:00Albion Fit (Giveaway) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm so excited to be collaborating with the amazing company <a href="http://www.albionfit.com/" target="_blank">Albion</a> today to bring you an awesome giveaway for one of these Go Long Crew's! If you know me, you know that I like to be comfortable and have little/no time to get ready in the morning. Much less try to fit in a workout of any kind. My "workouts" usually involve pushing 60 lbs of toddler uphill or on the pretty waterfront path we live near while stopping every 5 seconds to look at a duck, a sailboat or because someone needs a snack. Every so often my girls will try to whip me into shape and say "mom! you're not running, go faster!" They really know how to motivate;)</div>
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I am absolutely in LOVE with <a href="http://www.albionfit.com/" target="_blank">Albion's</a> <a href="http://www.albionfit.com/tops/go-long-crew-with-thumb-holes-pool" target="_blank">Go Long Crew</a> for the days where I need something easy to throw on while I'm running after my two little loves, and also in hopes that I'll be able to sneak in a quick workout. These tops are made from the softest and stretchiest fabric and are long enough so they're great for moving mama's like me who don't have time to keep tugging at my clothes.</div>
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Who doesn't love thumb holes too? I'm obsessed.</div>
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These crews come in Ballet Pink, Ivory, Heather Grey and <a href="http://www.albionfit.com/tops/go-long-crew-with-thumb-holes-pool" target="_blank">Cool Mint</a> (the one I'm wearing). They're the ideal shirts to throw on during the week to do errands, to go for a quick run after work, or to layer over your suit at the beach. So versatile.</div>
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I'm thrilled to be giving away one Go Long Crew to a lucky lady (color of your choice!) along with one of my Grey & Coral Two Toned Turbans!! Here's what you have to do:</div>
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1. Make sure you are following me & Albion Fit on Instagram:</div>
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@twosparrowsheadbands</div>
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@albionfit</div>
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2.Tag 2 friends on the instagram post that mentions this blog/giveaway.</div>
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That's it! The giveaway will run for ONE week and the winner will be contacted. </div>
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ALSO!</div>
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Albion was kind enough to offer a discount code exclusive for my readers only! You can use code twosparrows15 for 15% off your purchase from their <a href="http://www.albionfit.com/" target="_blank">amazing site</a>. (offer expires August 5th).<br />
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All photos courtesy of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/leah.spina.photography/timeline" target="_blank">Leah Spina Photography</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">This post was graciously sponsored by Albion Fit but all opinions on their products are completely my own. </span></div>
two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-37786534869955330142015-05-10T14:31:00.001-07:002015-05-10T14:31:39.763-07:00Freshly Picked (Giveaway)<br />
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Happy Mother's Day! I'm so excited to offer such a fun giveaway today for mamas AND their babes! If you didn't check out my instagram yet, go over and see how you can enter to win a pair of Freshly Picked Moccasins (any color & size you wish!), a mommy & me turban set, and a caramel leather bow.</div>
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Another reason I'm excited today is because I was given another opportunity to review the amazing & adorable Freshly Picked Moccasins that my daughters are wearing in all of these sweet Mother's Day pics. Freshly Picked is not only one of our favorite brands of shoes for kiddos, but the amount of respect I have for Susan (the woman behind all of the Freshly Picked magic) and her staff is out of this world. From quality of product, customer service, and cuteness factor you really can't go wrong with a pair of FP Moccs.<br />
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When I buy shoes for my kiddos, I look for something durable, comfy and something they'll get excited about wearing (because we all know the drama that can come with toddlers and picking out their own attire;). My girls LOVE wearing these shoes. They can put them on and take them off themselves (which is always nice with a toddler's growing independence) and they're not bulky or big, so they can run around free & comfortable with them on.<br />
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Recently, Freshly Picked came out with the new cleaning wipes for your littles moccs, to keep them fresh and new looking and increase the wear you get out of them. These things are awesome and will make your moccs look good as new! We have several pairs of FP that have lasted through trips to the park, chasing daddy around the house, and just simple everyday wear. You can find the wipes on the FP website <a href="http://freshlypicked.com/collections/accessories/products/fp-leather-cleaning-and-conditioning-wipe" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Freshly Picked Moccasins are a win for mamas and their babes in all aspects, and with so many colors to choose from you'll definitely need a few pairs! (The ones we have on are Coral) </div>
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In addition to the amazing giveaway that's being offered on instagram, I want to thank all of the great mom's out there and give you a coupon code for my shop for EVERYONE to use for this entire week! Use the code MOTHERSDAY at the checkout of my shop for 15% off any purchase. Go take a peek at the new turbans and get one for yourself or a coordinating set for you and your little. </div>
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Happy Mothers Day! xoxo<br />
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**A huge thank you to <a href="http://freshlypicked.com/" target="_blank">Freshly Picked</a> for allowing us the privilege of reviewing their fabulous product that we support and love!<br />
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**A special thanks to Nancy Noble Photograhy for taking these amazing photos amidst the craziness of three toddlers & a hot and humid day. You are loved, sis.<br />
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<br />two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-84313201002409137992014-09-16T04:21:00.002-07:002014-09-16T04:27:27.016-07:00We made it! I can definitely say it's been a bit of a blur since my last post, but we're finally moved, we're here, and "settled"...I say "settled" because as I'm typing I'm looking at a pile of about 15 boxes lined across my living room wall that also doesn't have a couch yet ;). But we're settled. We feel so grateful to be here and to our families that have helped us SO MUCH in this moving process. Because moving can be INSANE, and even more so with kids.<br />
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I had hoped to open my shop back up a week or so after we got here, and since we're now pushing 3 weeks since we moved, I think we all know that didn't happen;) However, I do have some fun new things up my sleeve and I'm thrilled to be able to share them in the next week or two to come. I wanted to share a quick update personally since there's a whole lot going on in our little world right now.<br />
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First of all, I have to say I have never seen as many amazing sunrises or sunsets as I have in the short time that I've lived here. SERIOUSLY? Every morning I seem to wake up just before the sun rises (which is a new thing...girlfriend likes her sleep and I rarely wake up before the second or third "snooze") and I try to shake my husband awake who seemingly doesn't find it quite as amusing as I do. And every afternoon or evening I tell him for the 50th time that I can't get over how the sun reflects off of the buildings of Manhattan. Truly breathtaking and it never seems to get old.<br />
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It doesn't look too shabby after dark either.<br />
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When we haven't been staring at the gorgeous beauty around us, we've been trying to keep our heads above the mounds of boxes and not have a small heart attack driving in Jersey traffic. I'm not kidding, I haven't gone too far beyond the little strip of road we're on, simply because this girl doesn't know how to drive Jersey yet. Thank you, Lord, for the train and ferry.<br />
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Our chicks first ride on the ferry...getting to see their expressions for all of the new experiences we've had has been the absolute best part of this whole process. They have loved almost everything about it and the stressful times we've had have gone right over their heads and have seemed nothing short of a fun adventure to them (to be a kid again right?)<br />
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Not to mention the 192192819281928 parks all over this area which have made them literally the happiest girls in the world. (Can I get an amen for gated parks?! Moms of multiples everywhere rejoice)<br />
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I've been doing my best to explore our area on foot to avoid driving as much as possible (ha), and I'm loving that we were able to move just when fall is here, when the weather isn't too hot and it's perfect for a long walk. It's so nice to be able to walk to the grocery store or the park and take everything in on the way.<br />
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SO proud and blessed to call this man my husband...he has been the most amazing supporter, father, navigator, IKEA furniture assembler, among many other attributes, and has put up with a whole lot in the past few weeks on top of starting work at a new location with a brand new commute that's a little different than what he's used to. He's loving work and couldn't be more grateful for the opportunity and I couldn't be happier for him. But I have to say my chicks and I always do a little happy dance on Friday's because we know we get to have him all to ourselves for the weekend :)<br />
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We have had so much support from our amazing families the past few weeks here and we couldn't be more grateful for their love and help!! From helping entertain the girls while we unpack to helping us assemble things to finding places for dishes in our kitchen cabinets, they've done it all. We got to show them around Jordan's office and spend time just enjoying their company while they were here.<br />
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obviously making themselves at home at daddy's office. ;)<br />
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looking out my hubby's desk window...amazing. </div>
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Don't even get me started on what the food is like around here. My hubby and I LOVE to try new things, and we're on the strict "we'll start eating healthy tomorrow" program, which doesn't seem to be doing a whole lot for us but we're ok with it for right now;). He sent me this text last week before a morning meeting of some donuts he picked up from a local Manhattan donut shop, and I told him not to come home empty handed or else. Needless to say it was or else ;) </div>
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He did make it up to me by taking me out for sushi, ice cream, and maybe the best margarita I've ever had for my birthday though, so I let it slide this time.<br />
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We've been having so much fun redecorating our new space, which I hope to share more of once it's a little more put together. I had been on pinterest 24/7 starting the minute we knew this was the space for us...planning and making lists and scheming things together in my mind. It's been so much fun.<br />
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If you're not following along with me on instagram (@twosparrowsheadbands) go take a peek and keep an eye out for when I open my shop back up, I can't wait to show you the new pretties I'll have once things settle down a bit in a week or two. For now, thanks for following along on our personal journey:) xo</div>
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two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-27812154563658066552014-08-04T06:23:00.001-07:002014-08-04T07:02:05.323-07:00BASICS <br />
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It's finally here, and I'm so excited to introduce you guys to an idea I had months ago that I couldn't wait to get started on....Two Sparrows BASICS.<br />
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If you've been following Two Sparrows a while, first of all thank you & high fives:). But you may see that I put out about 4-5 big collections each year, each with their own little theme or twist. This has been so much fun for me, whether it's centered around Christmas time, a specific style etc. I love being able to create a whole line centered around one focus. But as I started doing a little research and getting feedback from you guys, I found that one of the things that we were missing was just a BASIC go-to, throw-in-your-bag and take it out when you really need it accessory! Sure, I try to make versatile as well as creative items, but I really felt a need to focus on making a collection of headbands and accessories for every day. Because, well, I myself am a busy lady and a mom and let's just be honest, 99% of the time I'm not running around in wildflowers with my hair and makeup done in perfect lighting without a single stain on my clothing;) BUT! I still want to look put together, and I think we can all agree on that right?! So therein lies my reasoning for creating this line.<br />
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Ok, so ready to hear the second part about why this is so fun and exciting?! All of the other collections I have made are released, and then once everything's sold, it's gone. I realized that trends can come and go, but your go-to accessories are a constant. SO! In my shop from now on, there will ALWAYS be BASICS available to you! I'll always have some staples you can choose from, whether it's a simple black bow that you'll end up putting in your child's hair 5/7 days of the week (trust me, you will), or a super stretchy and comfy head wrap that you'll throw on when you have to go grab something at the grocery store. There will always be something you can choose from! As if that weren't already fun, I'll constantly be adding new things to the BASICS in my shop!<br />
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I still fully plan on creating specific collections as the seasons change (hello access to NYC and the garment district right before Christmas this year?! Let's just say your holiday head wear will not be lacking), so don't worry! But know that your go-to's will always be here too!<br />
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A few other important items to check off and explain...<br />
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1. I've added a few different listings in my shop as "bundle" or "specialty" purchases, to make things even sweeter! For instance, if you're interested in purchasing an adult head wrap and a baby head wrap, you can make it a "mini me" set by purchasing the "Mini Me Bundle" Listing...and you'll save a few bucks when you do so! Make sure to check out these listings when my shop opens tonight before you check out, to make the most out of your current and future purchases! <br />
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2. Shipping has typically been 3-5 days for my shop, and I always like to get orders out quickly so they're to your doorstep and on your head asap! However, with things getting busier this year, I'm changing my shipping time to 1-2 weeks from when your item is ordered. Some of my items are pre made, but others are made to order, so they may take a few days longer to ship. ALL orders will be shipped in the order they are received (as my policy has always been), and I will typically ship closer to one week rather than two. But if you're in a rush, please consider this or purchase the "RUSH MY ORDER" listing for an additional cost and your order will be pushed to the top of the line.<br />
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3. As you've been following along, you may have seen that personally my family and I are going through some pretty big changes with a move happening in the next few weeks! I really wanted to get the BASICS out to you guys before we moved, to give you a chance to share in what I've been so excited about they last few months:) So that's why despite the craziness of my life right now, I'm opening up shop tonight! I'll have the shop open for a limited time and then it will be temporarily closed for a few weeks as we transition ourselves into our new home and I can set up my "office" again;) So if there's something you see tonight that you have to have in the next week or two, make sure to grab it quick!<br />
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I love you guys! Seriously, I know there are a lot of shops out there and I'm so grateful you chose to support mine! It goes so much deeper for me than just making a few bucks, but you're supporting my passions and sharing in making things happen that I have dreamed of for a long time. Can you tell I'm getting all sentimental & slightly emotional with all this moving business?! ;) (but seriously, thank you.)<br />
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Don't forget to check out my shop TONIGHT at 7:30 pm EST to shop your new BASICS! (you can find my shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/twosparrowsheadbands" target="_blank">here</a>.)<br />
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xo, Carolyn<br />
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*All photos courtesy of <a href="http://www.nancynoble.com/" target="_blank">nancy noble photography</a>*<br />
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<br />two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-74523504581855167702014-07-28T06:30:00.004-07:002014-07-28T06:34:26.405-07:00NYC or bust Where have I been? You may or may not be asking yourself this question. I'm still here I swear! My mind is still going a million miles a minute with new ideas, I'm still pulling all nighters sewing and cutting and prepping for things to pretty your heads with! I just have a few other "small" things going on right now as well...<br />
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So, a few weeks back I shared that my family and I will be moving closer to the NYC area for my husbands job. While this isn't a HUGE jump for us on the map (we are upstate now), it is a HUGE jump for us in every single other way. And I mean every single. We currently have a house, two cars, are within 15 minutes from both of our families, and have developed great friendships for us and our kiddos. This has all been such a huge blessing to us and we are so grateful for that season, and are now just as grateful for this new season that will bring about a lot more change (and a lot less space, if you know anything about NYC living;)<br />
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Jordan & I have always LOVED the city, and when we first got married even talked about moving there for reasons totally unrelated to our current situation. Needless to say, we are SO grateful for the opportunity and excited to see the journey that the Lord has us on. Our families have been so kindly helping out with our girls while we've done a few weekends of "house hunting" which has been great. Let me just say that I never quite realized how many options there were when you make the move to NYC. We took a weekend JUST to scout/drive through areas and we started in Jersey City, drove through Hoboken & a few surrounding towns, and then explored Brooklyn & Queens.<br />
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We realize what a huge move this is going to be for our family, and especially for our girls who are used to a big space to run around, a playroom and a backyard to freely go wild in. We are really trying to do our homework to figure out the best possible scenario for them as well as what will be the best for Jordan's commute into Manhattan every day.<br />
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While we considered searching for a spot in Manhattan to be close to Jordan's job, we *quickly* realized that a 600 sq ft apartment in our price range just may not be the wisest decision for our family (or my sanity:) So we started looking in some surrounding areas.<br />
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<b><u>Park Slope, Brooklyn</u></b><br />
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Oh Park Slope. You're where I go in my dreams. Walking brownstone lined streets, watching little kids set up lemonade stands outside their doorsteps selling not only homemade lemonade but an assortment of their moms shoes/books, and well that just sent me right over the edge for the cuteness factor alone. Don't get me started on the abundance of parks, quaint and local coffee shops on the corner or the farmers market that was completely calling my name. We truly fell in love with this spot! It's so charming and seems like such a perfect place to have kids in the city.</div>
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<b><u>Queens (Astoria & Forest Hills)</u></b><br />
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We checked out quite a bit of Queens. It was super cute and full of hidden art and character. There's an adorable street with a strip of stores in Forest Hills that's great for walking. Tons of food trucks and food in general (always a plus here). Astoria was a little less busy, more laid back (or so it seemed to us, maybe just the part we checked out) and such a huge range of people from all walks of life, which we really liked. </div>
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<b><u>Hoboken, NJ </u></b></div>
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We could not have loved this cute little area more. Hoboken is like being in the city but on a more relaxed scale. It's like the perfect "coming from upstate" transition area if we had to pick one. There are adorable boutiques, local restaurants, parks all over the place, families, brownstones (I may be obsessed) and did I mention the piers? Our first visit we didn't even get a chance to check out the piers, but a friend of mine told me that we couldn't make that mistake twice. I mean, are you kidding? A walk down this little pier overlooking Manhattan, oh and there's a playground for the kids? Tell me where to sign. </div>
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<u><b>Jersey City, NJ </b></u></div>
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We stayed in Jersey City as kind of a central location to checking out the whole area when we were scouting, and I can tell you right now I don't know if I could ever get tired of these views. I woke up early one morning to the sunrise and was just so in awe of how beautiful it was. <br />
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Jersey City has a ferry that goes right over to Manhattan, which we took to go check out an area in Manhattan that we were considering. It goes right over to Battery Park, which is also a super cute area to have a picnic or take a walk. </div>
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Freedom Tower during the day and night from Jersey City.<br />
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We LOVE NYC. Like, love love. After a ton of discussion and prayer and confusion and more discussion and more prayer (ha), we decided to concentrate more on looking on the outskirts of the city to settle on for looking for our new home. We spent a good amount of time around Hoboken this past weekend, as well as the little towns surrounding it. We're kind of leaning towards these surrounding areas just because it's a decent commute into Manhattan (30-35 min to where Jordan needs to be exactly), it's pretty family friendly and it's more affordable than living in the heart of the city, while still having a lot of the conveniences of being right there.</div>
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Spent a lot of time walking up and down this path wondering if the next time we're walking it it'll be outside our back door so to speak. There is so much to consider when you move, right? Especially with kids in the equation. Anywhere we end up we are so aware of the huge blessing it is and the adventure that we have the privilege of being on. And it's been great to do so much research on surrounding areas along the way. </div>
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Being in NY my whole life I've never been to so many areas in the city or outside of the city as I have in these two weekends. It was exhausting ;) </div>
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So with all this being said, what does this mean for Two Sparrows? Oh, only that it's going to get EVEN BETTER :) I mean for starters...when you put this girl 35 minutes at most from the garment district, watch out. Dropping me off in the garment district for a day is like putting a kid in a candy store with $100 bill in their hand and telling them to go for it. There is SO much at your fingertips and I can't wait to get my hands on some amazing fabrics exclusive to NYC for you guys! I can't say how much I appreciate your continued support as I know I've been a little off the map and tied up with these major life decisions, but it seriously means so much to me that you're still following along! </div>
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In the meantime, I do have some pretty fab-u-lous things coming out in the next week or two and I'll just leave you with a little sneak peek...but you'll have to come back for more :) This stuff has been in the works for a while and it's screaming at me to get out there! You're going to love it so don't say I didn't warn you :)</div>
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EEK! Can't wait to show you more:) xo</div>
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<br />two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-3881121637133813842014-05-26T16:27:00.000-07:002014-05-27T10:27:34.203-07:00Freshly Picked & Two Sparrows (Giveaway) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What an honor to team up with <a href="http://www.freshly-picked.com/" target="_blank">Freshly Picked</a> and run such an incredible giveaway for you amazing people!!! First of all, I can say with 100% honesty that I admire and respect Freshly Picked as a whole SO very much. The owner & founder, Susan, has an infectious drive and passion for what she does, as well as an amazing consideration for helping out small businesses (like me!). Grateful for the opportunity not only to team up with FP, but with <a href="http://www.nancynoble.com/" target="_blank">nancy noble photography</a> (because, who else?) to bring you these adorbs photos, a giveaway, and a full out honest review of these amazing moccasins! So let's get to it...let me take you on a little Freshly Picked journey through a review of their product and three crazy toddlers.</div>
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Freshly Picked Moccasins...if you haven't heard of these yet, may I ask, where have you been hiding? Not only are these the most sought after and adorable moccs on the market, but they come in so many delicious colors that are absolutely TO DIE FOR! When I was asked to write up a review, I was able to choose which color I wanted, and if you know me, you know that wasn't a very hard decision....gold it is! I said :)<br />
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When I got these moccasins, I took them out of the uh-mazing little drawstring bag that comes with every pair ordered (who doesn't love great packaging?!), and showed them to my girlies. "OOOooooo slippers!" was their response, and clearly they wanted to try them on RIGHT. AWAY. Slipped these buttery metallic gems on my girls' feet and off they went to test them out! As a mom, of course we want shoes for our kiddos that are comfortable, but we'd be lying if we said we wouldn't want them to also be adorable too right? I love these for the fact that they're a breeze to slip on and off, my kids are comfy in them, and this color in particular goes with pretty much any outfit.<br />
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Another plus to these is that they are unisex! As you can see, my girls are rocking their gold moccs hardcore, but my sweet nephew is also rocking the Butterscotch pair! And lucky for us, they're just about a size apart so if my sister & I were feeling adventurous, we could swap and they'd look just as cute on my girls as they do on her little man!<br />
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As far as cost goes, these puppies are $60 per pair, and worth EVERY PENNY. Now, I have two girls, and can I get an amen for how quickly clothing/shoe costs can add up when you have girls?! (I'm sure it's the same with boys!) But let me just say this. I can feel comfortable spending this amount of money on a product that I know will be high end, GOOD quality, and USA made. I can also say <span style="text-align: center;">that anytime I have dealt with Freshly Picked and their customer service team, I have gotten a reply within the same day, and nothing but friendly and helpful service. These are all things that mean something to me when I'm spending money on a good quality product that I know will LAST.</span><br />
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One more thing I'll say about these moccs is that they wear really well. I'll just go ahead and say that my girls did not get their father's graceful and poised balance or way of carrying themselves. They are more like their mama in that respect;) and can be pretty rough on things...especially their shoes. These moccs are durable and well made, and I fully anticipate keeping them and handing them down to our next kiddo when they grow out of them.<br />
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All in all, we LOVE FP! I am so impressed with this company and all opinions on these moccasins are completely of my own.<br />
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Now, let's talk giveaway! You guys, this is a pretty INSANE prize! You have from today until Saturday, May 31st to enter. One lucky winner will receive:<br />
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1. One pair of Freshly Picked moccasins, color and size of YOUR choice.<br />
2. ONE YEAR of Two Sparrows headbands or accessories! You will receive one hair accessory per month for one year starting August 2014. At the time of winning may choose either adult, child, or some of each.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">(oh, and I didn't forget to mention these brand spankin' new bows, clips & headbands...but you'll have to wait a few more days to find out more about those ;)</span><br />
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To enter this giveaway, head on over to my instagram page to find out more! (Click the instagram icon under my photo at the right!)</div>
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Thank you again to <a href="http://www.freshly-picked.com/" target="_blank">Freshly Picked</a> for being a part of this collaboration, as well as <a href="http://www.nancynoble.com/" target="_blank">nancy noble photography</a> for the incredible photos!<br />
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xoxo</div>
two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-39848863704135548652014-05-12T11:07:00.002-07:002014-05-12T11:07:54.227-07:00Jamberry & TS GiveawayHave you guys heard of Jamberry Nails yet?! I'm totally obsessed! I first heard of them through my sweet friend Marisa, who is an independent consultant for Jamberry. You can check out her website <a href="http://marisadicocco.jamberrynails.net/" target="_blank">here</a>! For someone that has painted her nails, oh maybe five times in the span of 2 1/2 years from having kids, I have to say these are the easiest and longest lasting way I've found to keep my nails looking polished! (haha, get it?) These are totally non toxic nail wraps that are super easy to apply and maintain. When I tried mine for the first time, I applied a coat of white nail poilish, and then put the <a href="http://www.jamberrynails.net/product/metallic-gold-pinstripe#.U3EGxvldVIE" target="_blank">metallic gold pinstripe</a> right over my polish. They were super easy to place on my nails, and each one I did got a bit easier than the last. A little filing on the edges of my nails and I was set! These stayed on through washing dishes, doing laundry, playing outside, and all of my other daily mom activities :) No chipping and they looked amazing! Another thing I really liked about these was that they were only $15 for a set, which has enough wraps to last 2-3 applications depending on the length of your nails. For me, that's $5 a manicure!<br />
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There's so much versatility with these, and there is literally a design for every mood you're in. Oh, and did I mention that there are solid colors too?! My current favorites are <a href="http://www.jamberrynails.net/product/vintage-chic#.U3EFmPldVIE" target="_blank">these</a> and <a href="http://www.jamberrynails.net/product/black--white-horizontal-stripe#.U3EF_fldVIE" target="_blank">these</a> and <a href="http://www.jamberrynails.net/product/gold-sparkle#.U3EHfPldVIE" target="_blank">these</a>.<br />
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Marisa so sweetly partnered up with me today to bring you a Jamberry & Two Sparrows giveaway! One pretty winner will take home a Gray Orchid lace bow from my new Golden Blush Collection, in addition to a $40 gift certificate to get some Jamberry's of your own! All you have to do is head on over to my Instagram (you can click right on the Instagram button to the right of this article, right under my family photo) and tag three ladies that you know! The winner will be chosen this Wednesday, May 14th at 7:30pm.<br />
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Did you know that Jamberry makes wraps for kids too?! Dying over some of the patterns they have for littles, and I absolutely plan on trying them on my sweet chicks:) If you'd like to place an order, make sure to check out <a href="http://marisadicocco.jamberrynails.net/" target="_blank">the website</a> mention Marisa DiCocco at checkout. </div>
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Happy Monday! xo</div>
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(all photos courtesy of <a href="http://www.nancynoble.com/" target="_blank">nancy noble photography</a>)</div>
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two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-9937127370305036392014-05-08T06:18:00.000-07:002014-05-08T06:18:04.670-07:00B&C Top 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh hey! Welcome to a new series on my blog...B&C Top 5! Let me give you a little background before we jump right in...</div>
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So, my girl Bianca & I have been friends for quite some time now...from our little cheerleading days in junior high/highschool, to her and her little (or not so little anymore) bro being pretty much the sole reason that my hubby and I first started getting to know each other. And in just a few months I'll have the sweet privilege of standing with her & her man as a bridesmaid as they say I Do. We've been through a lot! And this girl has been nothing but a sigh of relief to me the past few months especially as I've been getting busier and busier with Two Sparrows. Cutting fabric, throwing out ideas, typing up timelines, and giving me that little push and/or extra cup of coffee when I'm slacking. So grateful for her help and passion for Two Sparrows, to see it flourish and become more of what I've been dreaming of it to be! But more on that later...</div>
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We wanted to collab on a blog post once a month to break things up and bring you a little sass from each of us, so here you have it, B&C Top 5! Clearly it has taken us hours upon hours to limit our current favorite obsessions to FIVE THINGS, but we hope you can find some of these useful, or that they at least bring a smile to your face! xoxo B&C </div>
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1. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/madebymaryshop" target="_blank">Made By Mary Design.</a> NEED I SAY MORE! If you got here today through my instagram feed or look at the photo posted above, you'll see my *favorite* necklace of all time made by this talented chick. I posted a photo of it a few weeks back, but my awesome photog sis was able to capture a pretty legit photo of the detail of it! <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/madebymaryshop" target="_blank">This</a> is her shop, and she creates custom bar necklaces among other things. I so happened to score this bad boy during one of her amazing sales, and literally PULLED my car over to the side of the road to order because I knew she'd sell out...and that she did, in an hour! Girl's got talent. You can find her on instagram (@madebymarywithlove). {C}</div>
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2. <a href="http://www.albionfit.com/swims/antigua-floral-bikini-bottoms" target="_blank">This bathing suit.</a> I'm crossing my fingers that it comes with the sultry beach waves and mysterious caves. Or at least the fun bangles?! [Full disclosure: I just bought this and C has one almost identical to it already and LOVES it! So flattering] {B}</div>
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3. <a href="http://lindsayletters.com/collections/art-prints/products/great-is-thy-faithfulness-print" target="_blank">THIS print</a> . Ahh, Lindsay Letters, another talented mama who I respect so much! Her beautiful prints & canvasas have me looking for hours, deciding which five, no six, no seven, to order at one time. I currently have this print and am planning on having it be a part of my gallery wall over my living room. <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/221309769163366504/" target="_blank">THIS</a> is what I'd love for my living room wall to look like when it's done...for that matter...my whole living room ;) {C}</div>
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4. <a href="http://lavelaundry.tumblr.com/post/30376835236" target="_blank">This</a> is beautiful, right?? I *love* flowers, and this would be an incredible way to have flowers in the house! Now I just have to figure out how to get them to stay... {B}</div>
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5. I constantly go back to <a href="http://apracticalwedding.com/2013/04/how-to-be-in-love/" target="_blank">this post</a> on one of my favorite websites, APW. It may be one of the most beautiful stories of love that I've ever read. The author paints a picture of a love lifestyle that I want to create in my own life, and helps me recognize specific moments in my day that I can choose to understand as love. {B}</div>
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Have a lovely day! </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mtIvs0Q55E0/U2uD07Mr0eI/AAAAAAAAAgc/zeM_aRpyjNs/s1600/photo+(33).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mtIvs0Q55E0/U2uD07Mr0eI/AAAAAAAAAgc/zeM_aRpyjNs/s1600/photo+(33).JPG" height="256" width="320" /></a></div>
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(a little throwback from our last highschool/college days;) </div>
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two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-17854629018006885092014-04-23T08:58:00.002-07:002014-04-23T09:20:48.661-07:00How I Wore It: (Easter Edition) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We had such an amazing Easter this year! Unfortunately my chicks were pretty under the weather most of the weekend, so the plans of decorating Easter Eggs and doing a few fun festive activities didn't quite happen. Thankfully, they were much better by Sunday and can I just go ahead and say that I don't think I've ever had more fun at an Easter Egg hunt than watching my kiddos go crazy over it!? We hid 30 eggs, thinking between my girls and my one year old nephew (who really didn't pull his weight in the "finding" aspect;) we'd have plenty...and the eggs went so quickly into their baskets and when they couldn't carry them anymore they recruited the grandpa's to pick them up. ha ha. And when the grandpas had all the eggs and the baskets were full, they'd say "Mo' eggs! Mo' eggs!" So my hubby pulled the old trick of "hey-let's take the eggs that they already found and re-hide them while they're not looking", and what do ya know, it did the trick for a while ;)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S2EIUgBk9vw/U1cTX1RMwVI/AAAAAAAAAdE/ThlVUCG9BNI/s1600/photo+1+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S2EIUgBk9vw/U1cTX1RMwVI/AAAAAAAAAdE/ThlVUCG9BNI/s1600/photo+1+%25282%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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(hoarding never looked so cute) </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">(What a good sport my little nephew was-we may have coerced him into wearing a pair of Two Sparrows bunny ears over his hat;) </span></div>
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I love Easter...first and foremost for it's importance in remembering Christ's death & resurrection for us, but also for it's promise of spring, warmth, and new things to come. It was the perfect bright & sunny day and we were able to celebrate at my parents house both my and my hubby's family.<br />
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(My mama was the hostess with the mostess, even down to the deviled eggs that looked like baby chicks!)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aEMSw1C-r6Y/U1cTa_04deI/AAAAAAAAAdY/NizejcksWvA/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aEMSw1C-r6Y/U1cTa_04deI/AAAAAAAAAdY/NizejcksWvA/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="232" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AkuunOhuoBU/U1cTa9z7VWI/AAAAAAAAAdc/CLiTDSrl-IM/s1600/photo+1+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AkuunOhuoBU/U1cTa9z7VWI/AAAAAAAAAdc/CLiTDSrl-IM/s1600/photo+1+%25283%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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We kept things fairly simple this year as far as what we wore, and honestly I don't even think I ever got a full picture of what I wore, but made sure to get a few of my ladies :) I had been eyeing a few dresses for them online, and just never got around to ordering them and then it was the week before. I popped into Marshalls one afternoon and found these two adorable peach & white vintage inspired dresses! You know that moment when you have an idea in your head and just come across it and want to just scream?! For $24 total I couldn't really complain! I tried grabbing two of the same, but as you know the one downside of Marshall's is it's hit or miss, and they didn't have two of the same size. I love dressing these girls the same sometimes, but they are each so unique in personality that I love dressing them to express those differences too!<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PxWJC0pRUfA/U1fgrGF2VII/AAAAAAAAAfo/coYi6Ciwvv0/s1600/photo+2+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PxWJC0pRUfA/U1fgrGF2VII/AAAAAAAAAfo/coYi6Ciwvv0/s1600/photo+2+%25282%2529.JPG" height="320" width="231" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mp55hThz9D8/U1fgutjJt-I/AAAAAAAAAfw/8wFUmz27_ww/s1600/photo+3+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mp55hThz9D8/U1fgutjJt-I/AAAAAAAAAfw/8wFUmz27_ww/s1600/photo+3+%25282%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UMJTfCDJb5Y/U1fgxEWbusI/AAAAAAAAAf4/TNUTMA5xa5Q/s1600/photo+4+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UMJTfCDJb5Y/U1fgxEWbusI/AAAAAAAAAf4/TNUTMA5xa5Q/s1600/photo+4+%25282%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xNQzgPwW7ZE/U1fg0PJLj3I/AAAAAAAAAgA/9q96K0_4zFg/s1600/photo+5+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xNQzgPwW7ZE/U1fg0PJLj3I/AAAAAAAAAgA/9q96K0_4zFg/s1600/photo+5+%25282%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
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I was pretty busy with custom orders the week before Easter, but I had to whip up some pretties for my girls to coordinate with their dresses. Wanted to keep their headbands simple, and go along the same lacy, muted vintage tones that their dresses had. They were just the right amount of fancy but neutral enough to wear again with everyday outfits.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0N8Z4SFoq7s/U1cTo8ZiQPI/AAAAAAAAAek/RcRlKkwA0AA/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0N8Z4SFoq7s/U1cTo8ZiQPI/AAAAAAAAAek/RcRlKkwA0AA/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eM90_kL6boU/U1fgqYKZdHI/AAAAAAAAAfk/6nuhZGir5sY/s1600/photo+1+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eM90_kL6boU/U1fgqYKZdHI/AAAAAAAAAfk/6nuhZGir5sY/s1600/photo+1+%25282%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
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(My dress was a simple floral longsleeve that I got a few months back at H&M for $5! ore some rose gemstone earrings that I had and a gold and lace bow under my topknot in the back.) </div>
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We managed to make it out the door in time (ok, ten minutes late..but with kids we consider this "on time") for the 8:30 am service at our church, all fed, dressed and happy, and the girls sat sweetly through the whole service with the help from kind grandparents and some pretty great friends in the row in front of us. We even got a picture together...!?!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XyKhfb1rlng/U1cdSBpcaXI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/xZlPRJR7vb4/s1600/photo+1+%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XyKhfb1rlng/U1cdSBpcaXI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/xZlPRJR7vb4/s1600/photo+1+%25285%2529.JPG" height="320" width="229" /></a></div>
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(the squinty/tired faces on my chicks and diaper bag on the ground only add character right?) </div>
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Happy Ressurection Day from our family to yours! </div>
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xoxo Carolyn<br />
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<br />two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-80130485715763588532014-04-04T20:16:00.000-07:002014-04-04T20:20:54.313-07:00The good, the bad, and the slightly embarassing.<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hi friends! It's been a while since my last post, so I thought I'd make it up to you with a whole bunch of embarassing pics and facts about myself :)</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bN6C8EwU8Sc/Uz9g0f_JiNI/AAAAAAAAAa8/M8RCW1F5UKQ/s1600/a-59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bN6C8EwU8Sc/Uz9g0f_JiNI/AAAAAAAAAa8/M8RCW1F5UKQ/s1600/a-59.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">FACT:</b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I'm 27 years old and I still love playing dress up. One of the things I love about my work is the photoshoots! The planning, the staging, shopping at my favorite thrift stores for the perfect outfits & props,color scheming, hair, makeup, I love it all!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H_zdwLGUDPI/Uz9rq_HQ9wI/AAAAAAAAAcU/GcLZX9fux0g/s1600/a-230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H_zdwLGUDPI/Uz9rq_HQ9wI/AAAAAAAAAcU/GcLZX9fux0g/s1600/a-230.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3e7xv0w4wPQ/Uz9rFhEWtfI/AAAAAAAAAcM/Do0wUGH1TDk/s1600/a-78.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3e7xv0w4wPQ/Uz9rFhEWtfI/AAAAAAAAAcM/Do0wUGH1TDk/s1600/a-78.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But the truth is, that isn't real life. Real life is flashing myself a glance in my kitchen mirror on my way out the door making sure I don't have food on my face from breakfast. Because, spending an hour getting ready every morning making sure my face is flawless and my hair is on point? HA. Not happening. In case you forgot, I have two sweet and BUSY little toddlers running haywire in our house daily. Things are less than peaceful while getting ready in the morning.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sZqx7g5o91Q/Uz9gGI6gnmI/AAAAAAAAAaM/yqs_2OVCE60/s1600/a-237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sZqx7g5o91Q/Uz9gGI6gnmI/AAAAAAAAAaM/yqs_2OVCE60/s1600/a-237.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>FACT:</b> I'm pretty bias, but I think my daughters are just beautiful. From their fiery personalities to their huge eyes that are just like their daddy's, I just cant get enough of their sweet little faces. So cliche, but they are literally so beautiful on the inside that it just shines. They are sassy and inquisitive and smart and funny and just all around two of my favorite people.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dUZOdJQUrv4/Uz9tv6pGuEI/AAAAAAAAAcs/ClU_YJcbglY/s1600/1-47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dUZOdJQUrv4/Uz9tv6pGuEI/AAAAAAAAAcs/ClU_YJcbglY/s1600/1-47.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-94Y0HBDNoiY/Uz9tsrRKyhI/AAAAAAAAAck/SqV14AMjInM/s1600/1-49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-94Y0HBDNoiY/Uz9tsrRKyhI/AAAAAAAAAck/SqV14AMjInM/s1600/1-49.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But lets remember, they're two. They have tantrums that are bigger than they are. They yell things that are more than slightly embarassing in public. Every task is "all by yourself". They repeat E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G...which may or may not always be the best for mama over here. Oh, and despite what it may look like, posing for photos is not always their favorite pastime.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BNYB94hR860/Uz9fnwgYJWI/AAAAAAAAAZs/zBdHtsWKadc/s1600/a-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BNYB94hR860/Uz9fnwgYJWI/AAAAAAAAAZs/zBdHtsWKadc/s1600/a-13.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> (thrilled) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(I mean, if you have an itch...) </span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">FACT:</b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> It may seem to you that I am a sweet, quiet, feminine person who daily wears flowy vintage dresses and the most divine shade of lipstick and high heels while I vacuum. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G3g3KD7ncLg/Uz9fzN9pLzI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/VbCtkeB5f1U/s1600/a-200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G3g3KD7ncLg/Uz9fzN9pLzI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/VbCtkeB5f1U/s1600/a-200.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In reality? I am a huge dork. Laughing is my favorite and anyone who can make me laugh or laugh with me can quickly win my affection. I love to joke around and feel like very few things should be taken too seriously. (Disclaimer: Despite my love for all things humor, I am a highly responsible mom/wife/human and make sure to be overly obsessive about safety and health. ;) I do feel that a strong reason I am like this is due to my nature that I am NOT an overly graceful person. I am constantly running into things, tripping, or saying "oops". If you can't learn to laugh at yourself, what can you do? :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>FACT:</b> Girlfriend doesn't "eat clean" all the time. Enough said. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>FACT: </b>What you see isn't always the full picture. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook, I love posting updates of what my kiddos are wearing, what new collection I'm working on, or a new way to wear a Two Sparrows headband. However, what you don't see is my messy craft room (why I can't keep this one room clean at all times is beyond me), my mismatched t-shirt and sweats, or that somehow ALL of my socks get holes in them. ?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Go ahead, I give you permission to stare at this gorgeous Christmas-card worthy photo of myself. AKA if any of you ever have a reason to blackmail me, this photo right here is for you. I had an idea for a preview photo for my Christmas Collection last year, and my sis is an amazing enough photographer to make that first photo look so alluring and gorgeous. What you DIDN'T see when I posted that original photo was that I had no makeup on, my hair was far from done, and I was wearing socks. I can't. People, this is real life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>FACT:</b> My daughters are such good sports. I love that I have a business that I am blessed enough to do from HOME so that I can be with them every hour of every day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It has always been my dream to be a stay at home mama, and I'm beyond grateful to be living out that dream. I try to limit how much work I do during the day, so that I don't spend my minutes sewing and scheming rather than soaking up the precious moments I have with my girls. But when I do have to do a little work, my little chicks work right alongside me. And that includes photoshoots! I can't say they're always as thrilled as I am, but I hope that one day I can look back on these photos with them and share things like, "remember when I loaded you two up in the stroller and carried a rocking chair, pillows, blankets, snacks, baskets, AND a canopy all in my arms while pushing you just so I could set everything up without having to make multiple trips?" Oh, and I did all this without realizing that the stroller brake was on and the whole time I wondered "WHY is this thing so hard to push today?" Their mama is crazy. ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>FACT: </b>My family is amazing. From my ridiculously talented photographer who just so happens to be my sister, to my cheering dad & nephew who put up with a whole lot of estrogen during photoshoots, to my helpful & fun mom who herds the chicks, and my sweet-as-pie in laws who love to entertain my girls sometimes while I sew or catch up on orders. SO incredibly grateful for family. Couldn't do it without them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One thing I hope I portray in my work is that I strive to be authentic. I never want people to think I have it all together, or that me & my chicks are dressed and ready to rumble every day by 8am, or that I know the secrets of balancing it all. Because I don't :) And I'm on that journey of figuring all of this out right along with everyone else. I love sharing small pieces of my life with you through my work, and I'm so grateful that you've allowed me that opportunity! xoxo</span></div>
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<br />two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-24124911207892818632014-02-05T08:01:00.000-08:002014-02-05T08:01:06.527-08:00How I Wore It (Twinny Edition) <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Motherhood is pretty spectacular. It's amazing in all of the ways I never expected. It's amazing in that I never expected to love my "home" days so much...where all I seem to do is pick up after my kids, make them meals, try to wash fold AND put away an entire load of laundry before 5pm, and manage to throw something together for dinner. I think the reason I love these days so much is because they're what some of the best memories are made of. They're the days where those little moments happen where you don't have the time to document them, they just happen and you live them and you enjoy them. The days where your kids are both in time out and you go over after their two minutes are up and you all make eye contact and for no reason start laughing hysterically, which turns into a tickle fight and two pairs of eyes looking up at you and two little voices saying "again, again" and suddenly all is forgiven. The days where you keep saying to them,"hurry", and after the 50th time you say it, realize that wait, I don't really want you to hurry. Stay here, stay this way, take your time. The days where you are so exhausted and your playroom is a mess but you realize it's that way because you were busy living life together too much to care. Just a typical day at home. Nothing crazy, nothing glamorous. But, THESE are the days.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We don't get out of our jammies every day (shhh)...but when we do, we do love to get a little cute. We also love a deal...and since I have two girls the same age, I have a hard time justifying paying full price for clothing that I know will either get worn out or grown out of pretty quickly. This is why, I am a mildly obsessive thrifter. I LOVE the hunt, the "aha" moment when you find that PERFECT piece to go with that PERFECT other piece you got at that other thrift store, and then the kicker-the ridiculous price. I would say 80% of all of our clothes are thrifted or consigned, and I am totally ok with that! In fact I prefer it. I love clothes, and I love dressing my girls in cute things, so in order to be able to do that, thrifting and I have no choice but to be tight. We search for styles & brands we love, and if it's last season, no one has complained yet ;) We also love original vintage things, the things that you can't get anywhere anymore that have that sweet, one of a kind, old fashioned look.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Both chicks are wearing headbands from our recent Valentine's mini collection, and I wanted to show that they don't need to ONLY be worn on Valentine's Day! This may come as a surprise to you, but I am not typically a pink & purple, hearts on everything type of girl. I tend to gravitate towards neutrals, and simpler, softer feminine things. The Conversation Heart headband that Henely is wearing was SO much fun for me to create, because while it does have the heart aspect, the heart is teeny tiny and we all know that anything teeny tiny is an automatic win because teeny tiny is adorable. We also know that this heart is gold, and in my book, gold is considered a neutral:) We like gold just a bit around here, and if we could just "poof" a touch of gold on just about everything, I'm pretty sure we would. This sweet headband can also be made as a clip for those littles who tend to pull headbands off more than they keep them on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The clip that my sweet Eden is wearing can be sold as shown or on a skinny white elastic band. We love this one! It's so girly & sweet but it's also neutral enough to not be considered ONLY a Valentine's bow. I think it gives just the right hint of pink to the tan and white outfit she's wearing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Headbands don't need to be just for special occasions! Even when you're having a "home day", its nice to have a little something extra in your hair :) Both of these hair goodies are available in my shop, you can see by clicking the "shop" button underneath our little family pic on the right side of this page! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We'll leave you today with a real deal photo of what our days at home look like...and frankly I think it's pretty great :) HAPPY WEDNESDAY!</span><br />
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two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-16416757083177453422014-01-31T05:55:00.001-08:002014-01-31T05:56:24.363-08:00Meet my BFF (and yours too)You know you've got that person...the one who isn't technically related to you, but it would be wrong to think of them as anything other than family. The one who makes you laugh until you cry and cry until you laugh. The one who has seen you through everything....and I mean evvvvvverything. Here's mine: <br />
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Meet my BFF, Leah. Leah and I have been friends for 20 years this year. TWENTY YEARS. If that doesn't make me start to feel old, I don't know what will. Not only have we been friends that long, but, besties if you will. Sure, we've been through our ups and downs, we've had a few weeks of not talking here and there, and maybe even a full out legit wrestling/hair pulling match thrown in there once or twice (I promise you I'm referring to our MUCH younger days), but we've always made it through alive, and better for it:)<br />
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(Tweety Bird was our jam back in these days)</div>
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Leah and I have done so much together. It started out when we were both in that fabulous awkward stage, you know, the one where you're experimenting with your style and getting braces and glasses that are huge & purple and trying to find your way. Yeah, that one. We both went to a really small church where we were really the only two our age, so we kind of magnetized towards each other and figured we better make this work. And I'm so glad for that! It was definitely the beginning to a lonnnnnnnng, crazy, amazing adventure.We had sleepovers, we traveled, we experienced highschool, we were cheerleaders, went on double dates, got sent to the principles office together, went to the prom together. We have even traveled to Guatemala and climbed an active volcano together. We've done a lot of things, but most importantly we've done life together. She came over for dinner pretty much weekly, and we giggled the entire way through dinner until my parents excused us from the table. We listened to our favorite song and made horrifically embarrassing music videos. She was in the NICU days after my girls were born. I saw both of her sons in the hospital right after being born and cried like a little girl. She and my sister so willingly helped me go to the bathroom on my wedding day because my dress was huge and you know, bathroom trips are always better with your friends.<br />
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(highschool graduation day, we had a joint party, obvi)</div>
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Leah has taught me so much about friendship and what it means to be loyal. She is ALWAYS there. Like always always. I know for a fact that no matter what circumstances may come our way, we will always be friends. You know what else is funny? Leah and I are like oil & water. We are TOTALLY opposite. She says tomato, I say tomato (just say it out loud, you know what I mean). There are very few things that mesh as far as our interests/styles/likes go, besides food ofcourse. We can both agree that food is great. But one thing I know for certain is that our differences have made us better, because we have been able to encourage each other and "balance eachother out" in the areas we need growth. Another plus is that our husbands are JUST LIKE US! And by that I mean her husband is just like me, and mine is JUST like her. Kind of a plus when you're trying to understand you're spouse better :)<br />
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(roughing it with the other necessity to our bestie crowd, my </div>
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awesome sister. Clearly in order to go camping you need various neon bandannas) </div>
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In going through all of the amazing photo gems you're getting the privelege to see, I found a few little "notes" from middle school and highschool. I spent the afternoon laughing and shedding a few tears over these notes, thinking how blessed I am to have a friend like this for so long. The notes were hysterical really, like who was a good kisser in 9th grade. I figured I'd spare you all from the scandalous things that were shared between us ;) </div>
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No matter what, this chick will always be my bestie. One thing we are both loving lately is that the DRESS UP headband from the mini Valentine's Collection. This headband is uh-ma-zing, and it's what I like to refer to as the BFF of headbands. Its simple, versatile, sparkly, and EASY. She likes pink and I like gold, and guess what? There's a PINK one AND a GOLD one! She has a pixie cut and I have long hair, but guess what?! It looks equally as adorable on both! No matter what, I don't think any girl can turn down a little bling every now and then. As of Wednesday, I had sold out of both the pink and the gold, but as of today, I have RESTOCKED and have only a few in my shop in both colors! For $12 a pop, you can't really go wrong. And today ONLY, use code FREESHIPPING on any purchase in my shop for free domestic shipping on any order!<br />
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Now go grab one for you & that bestie of yours, and take bestie selfies. </div>
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HAPPY FRIDAY!</div>
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(PS-the winner from last week's giveaway was chosen-please check the comments under that post and if you won, email me at twosparrowsheadbands@gmail.com)</div>
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two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-78680030745553561782014-01-22T05:07:00.004-08:002014-01-22T05:07:48.207-08:00Sunday's Best (Giveaway) Let's be honest here. I love getting dressed up. But what I love even more most of the time is a quick way to look like I got all dressed up without all the effort. When I get ready for church on Sunday, I like to look feminine & put together, but a little more subtle. I also love when I can pull together a look quickly, with minimal effort, because anyone with little ones knows that getting yourself & your littles to church every week dressed, prepared, and ON TIME is not for the faint of heart. (Please tell me I'm not alone here). Hair accessories are a fab way to pull an outfit together and make it look polished without being over the top. This past week I pulled out one of my very fav's from the Winter ONEderland Collection, the Sunday's Best Headband. This is one of my favorites because the rhinestone trim makes it super glam & girly, but it's raw, frayed edges make it look a little more antique & worn in too. It lays flat against your head so it gives just the perfect pop of something without being a huge attention-getter.<br />
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I paired this sweet thang with a pair of white & gold chandelier earrings from Forever 21, rose colored lace dress from Marshalls, white tights and some classic beige platform pumps. So, there you have it! Easy, put together, and feminine. Side note...as seen in the photos, my bangs are currently confused as to whether they are side bangs or straight bangs. They've been scolding me for a while now, and I just can't seem to take the plunge yet either way. Going back and forth deciding what's happening next with my hair, and the clock is ticking quickly before my eyes start to disappear :) </div>
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So the fun part of all this-I'm giving away one of these amazing Sunday's Best headbands to one pretty winner! Here's what you have to do to enter:</div>
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1.Follow me on instagram @twosparrowsheadbands (or go click the little instagram button under our family photo on the top right)</div>
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2.Like <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TwoSparrowsHeadbands">Two Sparrows</a> on Facebook </div>
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3. Leave a comment below and tell me YOUR best tip for looking put together quickly. Also, if you would be so kind to vote on side bangs, straight bangs, or grow the bangs, it would be appreciated. Please and thanks :) </div>
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You have ONE WEEK to enter and the winner will be immediately contacted by me. Happy Wednesday!</div>
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xoxo </div>
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<br />two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-25780224920330330412014-01-15T04:50:00.003-08:002014-01-15T04:50:41.612-08:00TS Holiday Wear<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This holiday season went <i><b>fast</b></i>. I seem to say that every year, but for some reason can never seem to find a way to make it linger just a little bit longer. I had so many hopes and goals and "to do" lists for how I was going to get everything done, and then I blinked and it was all over. Our family decided to put into place a few priority changes for next year on how we are going to better our time with each other and our loved ones, and really celebrate Christ's birth. Realizing how important that is now more than ever with kids, and how much quicker it seems to pass you by.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One of the tiny and not so important (but fun) things that I did feel prepared about was having a hair accessory for almost every party/holiday occasion I had to go to. As stated, although this doesn't weigh in as a "must" for the holidays, it is pretty fun to have a little something extra to make your outfit pop. I knew I'd have my hubby's fancy work function, a plaid party, Christmas Eve service at church, New Years, a Two Sparrows employee party;), and Christmas Day where I'd want to add a little fun to my hair. Here's a peek into each one of my holiday events and a few ways that I incorporated my hair accessories...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Two Sparrows "Employee Party"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(wearing the Snowflake Tie Back & Holiday Bouquet Hair Comb both from Winter ONEderland Collection) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm snickering as I write "employee party" because this affair consisted of a whopping 2 people. Although Two Sparrows currently only consists of myself and my genius photographer sister, we take this term VERY seriously and our celebrations must reflect this:) My sister has done nothing but graciously assist me in growing my business and adding an element of professionalism that I couldn't do on my own. We decided on a "progressive" style evening, where we'd go somewhere for dinner, and somewhere else for dessert. We are old, so we didn't last too much past 11pm. Even though we live close by to each other, it's rare that we get a night out just the two of us without the kiddos in tow. We ate too much sushi, wore matching "YOLO" bracelets, and acted far less mature than we should have. Just the kind of evening these sisters like.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Fancy Schmancy NYC Shindig</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(Wearing the Candycane Lane & the Cameo Headband, both from Winter ONEderland Collection)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This might be my all time FAVORITE part of the whole year. Ok, maybe top 5. But super close to the top. My hubs works for a great company, and every year they have a ridiculously beautiful event in NYC to celebrate the year's end. It typically involves a little weekend getaway in a fancy hotel, a great party on the 30349502th floor somewhere with a beautiful view, and us cramming in all of our favorite places to eat in NYC while we're there. I had ordered a gorgeous gold sequin dress for this party, to coordinate with my Candy Cane Lane Hair Comb, and long story short, it didn't come in time. So I spent the day of the party frantically walking around NYC and looking for something just as sparkly and fabulous, and came across a dress that I fell in love with. And super bonus: it paired perfectly with my hair comb! I wanted a chic, Audrey Hepburn-esq look, and rocked the top knot with the comb tucked into the base of the bun. I also wore the Cameo Headband at several points during our little getaway.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Plaid Party</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">(Wearing a simple custom gold bow, pretty preggo is wearing a custom sequin headband)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One of my very dearest friends, who also happens to be the best hostess, tried and true Two Sparrows model, and cutest soon-to-be-mama, had the fun idea to have a plaid party a few weeks before Christmas. Who doesn't love plaid? And parties? I already had a lot going on with this sequin accented plaid shirt (from Target), pearls and gold vintage earrings, so I didn't want to overdo it with something big. I threw my hair in a simple side pony, and popped in one of the chick's gold mini bows to finish off the look.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Christmas Eve</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(the tradition of over the top/humiliating props is becoming ever present in each of my family's holiday gatherings)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(Wearing a custom hair comb, girls wearing custom gold velvet headbands)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I love my sweats. And black yoga pants. And men's fitted wife beaters. And oversized sweatshirts. All staple pieces of clothing in my opinion. But when stay at home mom wear isn't appropriate, I do love to get a little fancy. Found this dress from Forever 21 for under $30, and the gorgeous vintage inspired necklace from <a href="http://www.mollysuzanne.com/">Molly Suzanne</a> during her supersale for only $12! (if you haven't checked her site out yet, go now, I'm obsessed!). I did a little custom action for myself and created a hair comb to coordinate with my jewelry and dress, and popped in some super simple pearl earrings. I made these custom headbands for the chicks out of one of my very favorite fabrics for this collection-the softest, gold velvet stretch, and added some rhinestone pops in the center of the bows.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Christmas Day</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(I'm wearing the Cameo Headband and the girls are wearing mini bow headbands both from the Winter ONEderland Collection)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I practically lived in this Cameo headband! It was the best subtle & chic piece for evvvverything. Christmas Day I wore it with a comfy polka dot sweater & jeans and the chicks each wore one of my favorite mini bow headbands with these gold polka dot shirts I scored at Old Navy's clearance rack for next to nothing. Score!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u> New Years</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(wearing Silver Bells hair comb from the Winter ONEderland Collection)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Typically for New Years, the hubs & I stay in, make excessive amounts of appetizers & desserts, and I fall asleep before the ball drops. And yes, we did this even before we had kids. What can I say, we're not very high maintenance as far as fun goes :) But on the flip side, we love to get away from the normal and pretend to be a little high maintenance at times. This year we had the privilege to go to one of our VERY favorite and special places, and enjoy some ridiculous food and beautiful scenery. I kept it pretty low key for new years eve and wore the same dress I did for hub's Christmas party, and then new Year's Day I wore a favorite sweater, dark jeans, and this hair comb in my hair.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So, there you have it ladies! I hope you all rocked a little Two Sparrows during the holiday's like I did, and as always I'd love to see how you styled different pieces into your outfits. If you have instagram, follow us @twosparrowsheadbands and tag #twosparrows #howiworeit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Happy Wednesday!</span><br />
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<br />two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-64156292216528580912013-12-29T20:07:00.000-08:002013-12-30T06:28:35.958-08:00two<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh hi! Remember me? It’s only been approximately 1.5 years since my last post ;) (and no I'm not being dramatic). So many times I have sat down and tried to come up with some type of update, or thank you, or anything really, just to give an update of where we’re at now. But every time, I just couldn’t seem to get the “right” words out or to express my gratitude to all of you. The reason I started this blog was to update family & friends regarding our sweet baby girls’ health status during my scary pregnancy with them, and what was a little way of keeping people updated became a HUGE chain of prayers and blessings and kind words & actions from SO many people. If you were one of those people, we can’t thank you enough. If you are just following along and have a minute, please take a peek at our story starting here: <a href="http://morethansparrow.blogspot.com/2011/11/i-decided-to-start-blog-about-our.html">http://morethansparrow.blogspot.com/2011/11/i-decided-to-start-blog-about-our.html</a> (it's a long read, but it's the beginning of our journey as our little family of four, and a true example of the faithfulness of the Lord.) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I still sit here overwhelmed by all the Lord has done in the two very short, but very incredible years that the Lord has given us with our twin girls. I’m overwhelmed by gratefulness. Gratefulness for the chaos. The sleepless nights. The when one gets sick, they both get sick. The messes. The question “Are they twins?” The giggles. The time outs. The crayon on the wall. The two of everything. The cuddles. The new phases. The new words. The lessons. I’m grateful for all of this because it means they’re here, in our arms, and in our lives. We can hold them, smell them, kiss them, love them. Oh, how my heart is grateful. For so long we wondered and waited and watched. The ultrasounds we saw and the scary things we heard and the heartache we felt. And they’re here. And I’m grateful. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know life isn’t promised to us, and that our days are numbered. And none of us know the number of our own days except for our Creator. But for today, with our babies, we are grateful.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They’re two years old today.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My babies are TWO years old today. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We have TWO babies. And today they’re TWO years old. Jesus, thank you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today we celebrate their life, and the life that the Lord decided to give them. Despite what the doctors said, despite what the odds said, JESUS said otherwise. And for THAT, I’m grateful. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This weekend we got to celebrate Henley & Eden’s life with our families. Although not everyone was there that we would have hoped could be, it was cozy and happy and full of wonderful. They ate cake, Henley face first and Eden very lady like. They ran with balloons, back and forth, Henley saying “bayoon”, Eden saying something no one could really comprehend but we all laughed because no one could comprehend it. They snuggled with grandmas. They put pretend makeup on grandpas. They called everyone by name. They did FaceTime with Titi & Uncle Mark who couldn't be there. They shared with their cousin. They sang songs with their auntie. They played toys with their uncle. It was perfect. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today, we celebrate two. Two babies, two miracles, two years. To my girls, you are the best, most challenging, most rewarding, most beautiful, most snuggly, best smelling, funniest, most memorable gifts that have ever been given to your dad and I. Happy 2nd Birthday, Eden & Henley! HOORAY! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(all photos courtesy of talented auntie, nancy noble photography)</span></div>
two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-70276975046706561332012-04-30T13:40:00.001-07:002012-04-30T13:42:40.264-07:00<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Four Months Old </span></div>
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The only semi-decent picture before meltdown of the century went down in the Hoerl house. Seconds before they both started screaming, I spilled an entire bottle all over the floor, and found a cat hair in Eden's bottle as she was drinking out of it (disgusting.). Hi, welcome to having twins. :) </div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Eden </span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9 pounds </span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Loves to smile, especially when waking up in the morning</span></em>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><em>Henley </em></span><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Verdana;">We affectionately call her "The Sleeping Dragon" (Ever heard people say to never wake a sleeping baby? Well, don't.) </span></em><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Smiles and "talks", she will definitely be the one in need of constant communication :)</span></em><br />
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(thank you Leah Spina Photography for these two gorgeous shots, we love you:)) </div>
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It's been four months to the day that we brought our precious chicks home from the hospital. In our wildest dreams, we never expected to be here today. Jordan and I got married over four years ago, and had many conversations about kids and always said, "It would be so fun to have twins". Little did we know the Lord was in on that conversation too and that's exactly what He had planned for us. One baby is a blessing, but TWO?! I remember vividly the first ultrasound we had. I was 12 weeks along, and had mentioned to a few friends and family members that I thought I was having twins. No one took me seriously ofcourse, and I'm not sure if I even took myself seriously. I remember praying in my car on my way to the doctor's office about a few things, and praying specifically that we would be having twins. Jordan and I sat in the waiting room, for what seemed like forever, especially considering I drank approximately a gallon of water prior to the ultrasound (tip to new moms: when they tell you to drink this much before an ultrasound, drink HALF. You will thank me later) so that the tech could see the babies clearly. I was SO uncomfortable and almost in tears, and as soon as they called my name I remember telling the nurse we had to do this NOW because I wasn't going to make it :) I laid down on the table, held Jordan's hand, and we watched the screen with anticipation. One small blob popped up on the screen, then another one popped up on the screen. Being fairly new to the ultrasound experience, neither Jordan or I really knew for sure that the tech had just showed us our two babies. After talking about it later, we realized that we both thought it was a little fishy, and wondered if by chance it could have been twins...but no way....really? After about five minutes, the tech said, "Yup, there's two in there". Jordan just about passed out on the floor and I burst out crying tears of joy. That moment was the beginning of what we knew to be our journey with our two precious babies. We had no idea what the months ahead were going to hold, but we knew the Lord wanted us to have these two babies. HE picked us! Looking back on that day seems so far back, and I can hardly believe they are four months old. </div>
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I can remember shortly after we realized the health concerns the girls were facing, one of many times that I broke down in fear and pleaded to the Lord to save my girls lives. I was crumpled up like a ball on my kitchen floor sobbing, begging the Lord to give them every thing they needed to survive. Asking him to spare their lives, and give us mercy. </div>
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It brings tears to my eyes still to remember these events in our lives and how God has carried us through what was the biggest challenge of our lives so far. And let me tell you, He definitely asked us to increase our faith in Him, and not only for that time, but for now. Twins are AMAZING, wonderful, fun, exciting, busy and such a blessing. But WOW are they challenging! I look back on all of these events and can't help but think that the Lord was using those things to grow us in patience and faith and to grow our marriage stronger so that we could have a stronger foundation for raising our girls...because we would need it. Have we been through some rocky spots since the girls have been home? Sure. When you mix sleep deprivation, two screaming babies, feeding issues, and being brand new parents, there is no doubt you're going to have some days that don't look too pretty. I think as new parents (and especially us, moms), we sometimes want to come across as the perfect parents, and float along in the bliss of our new baby (or babies), and share only the good with others. I have seen my pride pushed aside in SO many ways since we have brought these babies home, and it is humbling to experience. We have such a need to want to act like we have it all together and do it all ourselves, when in reality, we don't, and we can't. I've come to appreciate the beauty in not "having it all together". Would I love to have a sparkling clean house, dinner on the table, laundry folded and put away, and myself showered and dressed by the time my husband comes home? Ofcourse. Do I find that most days I'm proud of myself if a.) I've showered. b) The dishes are done and c.) MAYBE I took something out of the freezer for dinner (or maybe we're having cereal. again. for the fourth night in a row.) And you know what? <strong><em><u>That's ok.</u></em></strong> <br />
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I have an amazing, supportive and loving husband who cares more about me and the fact that our girls are taken care of than if he gets a four course dinner or if the floors are mopped. I get to focus my time and energy on enjoying every single second of these precious little ones and soak in their sweetness, because in the blink of an eye it will be gone. I get to thank God every day for sparing their lives and for entrusting them to me and Jordan. I pray that He would give us wisdom on how to raise them and help us to keep the important things in perspective. We're so blessed! I love being a mom....with ALL that goes along with it. </div>
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best.job.ever.</div>
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</div>two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-68045733515837221852012-04-26T11:36:00.000-07:002012-04-26T11:36:34.344-07:00These past three and a half months have absolutely FLOWN by. I can't believe how the girls have grown, developed, and continue to amaze us. We are so eternally grateful for their lives and presently very exhausted ;) I have sat down about fifteen different times to blog, each time erasing every "rough draft." Despite there being so much to share, I can't seem to put into words what I want to say. The gratitude, the hardships, the questions, the excitement, it's all there...I just can't seem to figure out where to start. So instead of attempting another blog post that I will just end up erasing, I decided to share what's been happening in our lives with pictures. They say a picture says a thousand words, so here's a couple thousand words for ya on what's been happening with us the past few months...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daddy & Eden</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We do lots of this</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TjkAv1BPz04/T5mIe3BF1SI/AAAAAAAAALs/bS90RFtApts/s1600/1-470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TjkAv1BPz04/T5mIe3BF1SI/AAAAAAAAALs/bS90RFtApts/s640/1-470.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family time</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wuOXeIeQPf8/T5mIxkAeo6I/AAAAAAAAAL0/qzMcTst4VRA/s1600/1-386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wuOXeIeQPf8/T5mIxkAeo6I/AAAAAAAAAL0/qzMcTst4VRA/s400/1-386.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ecZVq4KCr4Q/T5mI-EZFsjI/AAAAAAAAAL8/AmKQCj3Tt8c/s1600/1-358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ecZVq4KCr4Q/T5mI-EZFsjI/AAAAAAAAAL8/AmKQCj3Tt8c/s320/1-358.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First baths</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lYDus7YVINk/T5mJL-2A2CI/AAAAAAAAAME/a84ejGjhBFA/s1600/1-282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lYDus7YVINk/T5mJL-2A2CI/AAAAAAAAAME/a84ejGjhBFA/s400/1-282.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma & Nana loving up the girls</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fwiwsInDQgI/T5mJeal8eoI/AAAAAAAAAMM/y7Tub03FLFI/s1600/1-305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fwiwsInDQgI/T5mJeal8eoI/AAAAAAAAAMM/y7Tub03FLFI/s200/1-305.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add caption</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b5Ub0btJLOg/T5mJrE79UUI/AAAAAAAAAMU/_uFcuSbfIBE/s1600/1-211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b5Ub0btJLOg/T5mJrE79UUI/AAAAAAAAAMU/_uFcuSbfIBE/s320/1-211.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Grandma seeing them for the first time, so special!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9wmrjeJTG4/T5mKGGYVClI/AAAAAAAAAMk/MRCi5X7fWEU/s1600/1-214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9wmrjeJTG4/T5mKGGYVClI/AAAAAAAAAMk/MRCi5X7fWEU/s640/1-214.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hi Gorgeous</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zZDMi7EgovY/T5mKHhH4syI/AAAAAAAAAMs/u9D_ySMQxss/s1600/blog2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zZDMi7EgovY/T5mKHhH4syI/AAAAAAAAAMs/u9D_ySMQxss/s640/blog2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look like daddy much?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZW2_7hXEZUc/T5mKIv5nskI/AAAAAAAAAM0/lhcIAWFBXVM/s1600/blog5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZW2_7hXEZUc/T5mKIv5nskI/AAAAAAAAAM0/lhcIAWFBXVM/s320/blog5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Already so full of personality :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First time my Dad held the girls </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o3WFtQT2vjE/T5mKK4aphLI/AAAAAAAAANM/rXG5khGy1Kw/s1600/blog9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o3WFtQT2vjE/T5mKK4aphLI/AAAAAAAAANM/rXG5khGy1Kw/s400/blog9.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snuggles with sis</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ggKFPFreksU/T5mKLQts2tI/AAAAAAAAANU/oyQOSwqCPpU/s1600/blog7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ggKFPFreksU/T5mKLQts2tI/AAAAAAAAANU/oyQOSwqCPpU/s400/blog7.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aunt Erin & Uncle Mark on Easter</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CmpoB4aySD8/T5mKME8SnpI/AAAAAAAAANc/LpfU9c_cKGY/s1600/blog11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CmpoB4aySD8/T5mKME8SnpI/AAAAAAAAANc/LpfU9c_cKGY/s200/blog11.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First walk</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WxUQYw59sFk/T5mKMwJV7oI/AAAAAAAAANk/z1X7DeJcdAk/s1600/blog10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WxUQYw59sFk/T5mKMwJV7oI/AAAAAAAAANk/z1X7DeJcdAk/s400/blog10.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our friend Teyo, oh how we love him</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-473z62mGdzw/T5mMgFnrlwI/AAAAAAAAAOU/SWYNGTZnWwg/s1600/1-153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-473z62mGdzw/T5mMgFnrlwI/AAAAAAAAAOU/SWYNGTZnWwg/s320/1-153.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A whole new meaning to multi tasking:)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qBeRDWVr4BE/T5mQZ2YrWVI/AAAAAAAAAPA/japxQpH28Ww/s1600/IMG_0363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qBeRDWVr4BE/T5mQZ2YrWVI/AAAAAAAAAPA/japxQpH28Ww/s400/IMG_0363.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Auntie Lee</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--mu219f9Ku0/T5mLpeWFIxI/AAAAAAAAAN8/XSo-gCRE-Tk/s1600/1-111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--mu219f9Ku0/T5mLpeWFIxI/AAAAAAAAAN8/XSo-gCRE-Tk/s320/1-111.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama and her girls</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pop Pop holding Eden for the first time</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MJBpADxqnyI/T5mM91ai8NI/AAAAAAAAAOk/8MMtcmUNCw8/s1600/1-63.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MJBpADxqnyI/T5mM91ai8NI/AAAAAAAAAOk/8MMtcmUNCw8/s320/1-63.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Auntie Nu</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DI9Eld5_ZqI/T5mKNeS13tI/AAAAAAAAANs/9Qt8R7ONwJI/s1600/blog8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DI9Eld5_ZqI/T5mKNeS13tI/AAAAAAAAANs/9Qt8R7ONwJI/s400/blog8.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little time with Henley</td></tr>
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Although I wish I could, I can't take credit for some of these gorgeous pics...thanks to my sis for her creative talent as well as my cute kids for their participation;) </div>
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<br />That's all for now. Looking forward to sharing more about the girls progress and our experiences very soon. Be blessed! </div>two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-27662114178073128842012-01-26T16:52:00.000-08:002012-01-26T19:15:14.157-08:00Let me take you through the past 28 days...<br /><br />Here we are on Christmas, just a few days before the girls arrival...would anyone care to imagine how massive my belly would have been had I gone 40 weeks? <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Eeek</span> :)<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--6CwQSGksE0/TyIEpHTtyjI/AAAAAAAAAJc/t1rIhTD1V5s/s1600/IMG_0185.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702125182587357746" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--6CwQSGksE0/TyIEpHTtyjI/AAAAAAAAAJc/t1rIhTD1V5s/s320/IMG_0185.JPG" /></a><br />After the anxiety of going through the actual c-section, I'd say I was pretty relaxed and we were so ready to meet the babes. You know you have a great anesthesiologist when he offers to take a picture during the procedure :)<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kpt417nSmUc/TyIEoQQQdFI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/U8NuDU7DA_Q/s1600/IMG_0212.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702125167808902226" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kpt417nSmUc/TyIEoQQQdFI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/U8NuDU7DA_Q/s320/IMG_0212.JPG" /></a><br />Eden Kelley <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hoerl</span>...2 pounds 11 ounces. Our first look before she was whisked away to the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">NICU</span>. Yes, that's Saran Wrap underneath her hat covering her head, to keep her nice and toasty!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iBl6k9A5QL4/TyIEOhAWoxI/AAAAAAAAAJI/7LNZ5RzxRpc/s1600/IMG_0209.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702124725629002514" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iBl6k9A5QL4/TyIEOhAWoxI/AAAAAAAAAJI/7LNZ5RzxRpc/s320/IMG_0209.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Henley Palmer <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hoerl</span> 3 pounds 2 ounces...32 weeks of waiting and it was worth every second to see these gorgeous faces<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J9--AbNRRwA/TyIEOL-S3zI/AAAAAAAAAI4/6J46whrLjeg/s1600/IMG_0208.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702124719983222578" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J9--AbNRRwA/TyIEOL-S3zI/AAAAAAAAAI4/6J46whrLjeg/s320/IMG_0208.JPG" /></a> </div><br /><br /><div>After the girls were born, I was moved into a recovery room and Jordan came with me for the first hour to give the doctors some time to get the girls cleaned up and assess their needs. Jordan and our parents were able to go see the girls within the first few hours, and would <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">periodically</span> bring me pictures so I could see them for more than the brief minute that I had seen them at delivery. I was so anxious to see them and kept asking the nurses when I'd be able to go up. About 6 hours later, I finally was able to get out of bed (which is a whole other story...your first time standing up after a c-section is NOT pleasant...) and go see my baby girls. I was so excited and anxious...I didn't really know how I'd react or how I'd feel, it's definitely a different experience to really see and touch your baby(or babies) for the first time 6 hours after you have them.<br /><br />Seeing Henley first, crying tears of happiness to officially meet my sweet girls. Such an overwhelming feeling of love for them.<br /></div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6KiZdM1L7So/TyIENly2UdI/AAAAAAAAAIs/9zdwOYKqcKY/s1600/IMG_0220.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702124709734666706" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6KiZdM1L7So/TyIENly2UdI/AAAAAAAAAIs/9zdwOYKqcKY/s320/IMG_0220.JPG" /></a><br />After a few minutes the nurse asked if I wanted to hold Henley, and I wish I could have recorded the look on my face. I honestly didn't have many expectations going into their birth as far as being able to hold them or touch them at all. We had no clue what type of state they'd be in physically, being so early and having complications during pregnancy. Miraculously, each girl only needed <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">CPAP</span> (a breathing device that delivers constant air pressure into a baby's nose) for a few hours that first day. There was no doubt that it was the Lord that allowed them to start breathing on their own in room air within 24 hours. Amazing.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6dMRb8JkcKI/TyIEM-CcN0I/AAAAAAAAAIg/nIwig-ta21I/s1600/IMG_0231.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702124699062646594" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6dMRb8JkcKI/TyIEM-CcN0I/AAAAAAAAAIg/nIwig-ta21I/s320/IMG_0231.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br />Jordan's first time holding Henley. Before we had the girls, we were told that it was very unlikely they would be placed in the same nursery, for a few different reasons, but right away the girls were put together. Another huge blessing, and it definitely made it easier on us!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oudTxqBy-UI/TyIEMmdbqVI/AAAAAAAAAIU/0l0MSuo2Mto/s1600/IMG_0242.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702124692733405522" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oudTxqBy-UI/TyIEMmdbqVI/AAAAAAAAAIU/0l0MSuo2Mto/s320/IMG_0242.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Our precious little Eden, the same day after they took her off of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">CPAP</span>. Even with the many wires, monitors, feeding tubes, tape, etc etc etc, my girl could not look more beautiful at this moment.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wr5ga_CZy9M/TyIDGXM1lJI/AAAAAAAAAIE/72pGXvQrgLw/s1600/IMG_0246.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702123486046426258" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wr5ga_CZy9M/TyIDGXM1lJI/AAAAAAAAAIE/72pGXvQrgLw/s320/IMG_0246.JPG" /></a> The girls spent almost 2 weeks in "Nursery #4", one of the more intensive nurseries with babies that have more severe health issues or ones that are very premature. These were some of the hardest days that Jordan and I have ever been through. Day after day walking into the nursery so happy to see our babies, but not knowing what to expect. Looking back and hearing some of the stories from other parents who have been through some crazy things, we are so blessed, and the "little hiccups" that the girls went through could have been so much worse. Thank you Lord for your continued protection. I don't think I fully knew what to expect going into the "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Nicu</span> life", and I don't think you can fully understand it unless you've gone through it. It definitely is much more difficult than I had ever anticipated. Like I said, our girls (thank God) have had a fairly stable path so far, but the emotional toll that it takes on you is at times unbearable. You are torn between two things: You want to be there 24/7 and you don't want to be there at all. You want to be there all the time even if all you can do is sit in a stool and stare at your baby and watch them breathe. You struggle with walking through the doors every day because it's so hard to see your baby so small, frail and behaving differently than you'd see a full term baby behave. Every day you ask yourself, "did they lose weight?" "did they tolerate their feeds?" "did the doctors find anything wrong?" "are they really being taken good care of?" Needless to say its hard to get any rest when these things are constantly lingering in your mind. </div><br /><br /><div>For any parent with their child in the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">NICU</span>, if they don't have the Lord and His grace and strength to see them through, I can honestly say I don't know how they do it. </div><br /><br /><div align="center"><br />Despite the tough questions, thoughts and situations, there are some happy times too, and trying to get to know our new girls has been such a joy, despite the conditions. (Happy times also include a sister who made a surprise visit from Oregon to see her nieces and take some gorgeous pictures:))<br /></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div align="center">(Mommy and Eden) </div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wS-Z4t6FJZo/TyIDGKj89II/AAAAAAAAAH4/EdfOXhwbHyU/s1600/1a-5.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702123482653717634" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wS-Z4t6FJZo/TyIDGKj89II/AAAAAAAAAH4/EdfOXhwbHyU/s320/1a-5.jpg" /></a> </div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M-FhK9GSQJI/TyIDFsIKSlI/AAAAAAAAAHs/OZoZYZA-rtU/s1600/securedownload.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702123474484087378" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M-FhK9GSQJI/TyIDFsIKSlI/AAAAAAAAAHs/OZoZYZA-rtU/s320/securedownload.jpg" /></a> The first time our girls had been together since they were snuggled up in the womb. They loved every second!!<br /></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qpL0AvI7JvY/TyIDE30CTnI/AAAAAAAAAHg/pkVo2uoU-xw/s1600/IMG951757.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 238px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702123460441034354" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qpL0AvI7JvY/TyIDE30CTnI/AAAAAAAAAHg/pkVo2uoU-xw/s320/IMG951757.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Beauty queen Henley already showing off her personality<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oLyKddFH2p8/TyIDErVxZqI/AAAAAAAAAHU/tMVGgHHdqxg/s1600/z-3.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702123457092871842" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oLyKddFH2p8/TyIDErVxZqI/AAAAAAAAAHU/tMVGgHHdqxg/s320/z-3.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Eden modeling one of the many gorgeous hats that Jordan's mom made for them so they will at least look cute during their stay at the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">NICU</span>;). So cute!!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FaPtDwiXHVQ/TyIBrF1LHvI/AAAAAAAAAHI/JimqO8QRNcU/s1600/1a-2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702121918015676146" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FaPtDwiXHVQ/TyIBrF1LHvI/AAAAAAAAAHI/JimqO8QRNcU/s320/1a-2.jpg" /></a> </div><br /><div>Snuggle time with Henley<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ztPUOvIIPA/TyIBq566_oI/AAAAAAAAAG8/RZPnmFWWksU/s1600/1-74.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702121914818559618" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ztPUOvIIPA/TyIBq566_oI/AAAAAAAAAG8/RZPnmFWWksU/s320/1-74.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Eden's first bath, she LOVED it!<br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-756qik1Pb_w/TyIBptIvCUI/AAAAAAAAAGg/CO5SXDWeRnc/s1600/bath5.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702121894206966082" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-756qik1Pb_w/TyIBptIvCUI/AAAAAAAAAGg/CO5SXDWeRnc/s320/bath5.jpg" /></a> "Chubby" Henley gaining weight day after day. Toppin the charts at a little over 4 and a half pounds! Keep it <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">goin</span> girl :)<br /></div><br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D9GKFrtSbfo/TyIBpcA5vTI/AAAAAAAAAGY/0gWFC91UMEY/s1600/bath4.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702121889610710322" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D9GKFrtSbfo/TyIBpcA5vTI/AAAAAAAAAGY/0gWFC91UMEY/s320/bath4.jpg" /></a> The girls are doing so well and Jordan and I are so grateful for all of the prayers that have been said on their behalf. I can't wait to sit down with them one day when they are older and tell them just how many people cared about them and took the time to pray for their health and safety. We are so appreciative. We have <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">received</span> so much support that has been so helpful, whether it's a meal or a night at the hotel across the street or a phone call or text message, we can't thank you enough. The support of our family and friends has made it easier to get through this time, and we are so thankful!</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>At this point we still aren't sure when the girls will be home. In some ways this past month has seemed to fly by, and each day has seemed to blur into one big experience. In other ways it seems like it's been an eternity and it blows my mind that someday soon we will be able to have our girls right here at home with us. I could be sitting here typing while one is crying because she's hungry and the other is crying because she needs her diaper changed...and let me tell ya...I am so looking forward to that day. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>A lot of people have asked what I do all day at the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">NICU</span>....this is what my typical day looks like:</div><br /><br /><div>Get there in the morning, attempt to feed Henley, spend some time cuddling with her, put her back, attempt to feed Eden, cuddle with her, put her back, and then it's about time to do the whole thing over again. I don't have to be there all day, but I think anyone in this situation would choose to be. If you can't have your babies at home, you'll find a way to be involved in any little thing that you can, even if it means taking their temperature or washing their face. These little things that we so often take for granted are ways that <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">NICU</span> parents can feel like they are actually being parents. And these are priceless moments to me right now. I definitely feel like I have been in isolation for a month, trying to sneak in a quick text between feedings or a short phone call while one of them is sleeping, and I just want to say how grateful I am that people are so understanding. I'm sorry if I don't always get back to you, it's not because I don't care, and please trust that the minute these babies come home I will be much more reachable than I am now:) </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>A few things you can be praying for as we continue this hopefully short-lived journey....</div><br /><br /><div>1.That the girls would start taking every feed orally (they have to do this for a full 24 hours before they will be considered able to go home) instead of through their feeding tubes</div><br /><br /><div>2.Once this happens, that each baby would be able to maintain their own body temperature. Right now they are in the lowest setting of heat in their <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">isolette</span>, and as soon as they can take their feeds orally, they will turn this off and see how they manage their own body temperature.</div><br /><br /><div>3. Both girls are anemic, which is fairly common for preemies, but something that has to be monitored. Eden is doing <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-error">ok</span>, but Henley's levels have been dropping and they are re-checking them on Monday. If she doesn't improve, they will consider doing a blood transfusion. While I know that they do this all the time, it still makes me nervous to put someone else's blood into my baby girl's little vulnerable body. Please pray that it doesnt get to this point and that her body is able to recover without this intervention.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>As soon as the girls can eat all of their feeds orally and maintain their body temperature, they can come home!!! It seems like such a simple thing to ask, but for a preemie, it takes a lot of energy and coordination, things that they aren't supposed to be even attempting right now, as they should still technically be in my belly. However, they are amazing and smart and they will get it. We just hope and pray it's a little sooner rather than later :) More to come..<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-40869138213368172002012-01-06T13:53:00.000-08:002012-01-06T14:19:47.793-08:00One week old today!Happy one week birthday Henley and Eden! You have been such incredible blessings in our lives and we are so grateful to the Lord for your lives and for giving us such an amazing week with you! You are and continue to be testimonies of God's great faithfulness and mercy. Your mommy and daddy love you SO MUCH!! (and a lot of other people do too:)<div><br /><div>To everyone that has prayed, called, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">texted</span>, brought a meal, given a hug, been a shoulder to cry on, sent flowers or gift baskets, or have given us support in some way, THANK YOU. you have no idea what a blessying you have been to Jordan and I and how you have helped to make this time with our girls so much more comforting. We love you and pray that the Lord blesses you tremendously for your generosity and love. </div><div><br /></div><div>A little update on the girls....</div><div>After a few rough days of questions, discouragements and a lot of worry, the girls are slowly but surely making progress. Both are learning to tolerate their food better and use their digestive systems, both are working on gaining weight, and both are breathing completely on their own. These things are all happening purely because of the Lord's protection over them. Both girls had brain scans to check the structure of their brains and came back with NO bleeding in the brain or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">calcifications</span>. Praise God! The scan does not tell us anything about their brains developmentally, but this is still amazing news and we are trusting the Lord that He will bring them through with their daddy's intelligence! :) </div><div><br /></div><div>Right now we are continuing to ask for prayer that they keep eating and digesting well, as this will allow them to get their <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">IV's</span> out (called <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">PICC</span> lines, they are central <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">IV's</span> placed just outside of the heart) and put them at less risk for infection<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"> and also one step closer to bringing our girls home!</span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);">Will keep you updated as we can....thank you again. </span></div>two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3599600108136547162.post-64717566790249958212011-12-29T05:22:00.000-08:002011-12-29T07:54:58.415-08:00tomorrow is the day!Tomorrow...<br />We get to see firsthand our miracle babies that the Lord has carried through these past 32 weeks. We get to witness His faithfulness and His ALWAYS good and just ways, because of who He is, and not because of what He's done for us. We get to see a chapter close on one part of our journey, one very scary, but faith filled chapter, and allow the Lord to work through the next chapter. We get to look back and say "See what the Lord has done for us" and thank Him for his love and faithfulness that we so do not deserve. We get to hold on to His promises when it may seem difficult or unbearable, and remember how far He has already brought us.<br /><br />I still can't believe we get to meet our baby girls in less than 24 hours. The past 2 nights I haven't been sleeping, up almost every hour wide awake just thinking about them and what it's going to be like having them outside of my belly. The past few weeks has been filled with so many different emotions, one day I'm crying, thinking of how nervous and worried I am about the unknown, and the next I'm beside myself with excitement, feeling so blessed that the Lord has brought us this far and has allowed us to go through this. Jordan and I went out to dinner last night as our last date night before 2 kids, and we were saying how even though this has probably been the toughest few months of our lives so far, we are so grateful that the Lord allowed it to happen, and know He has used it in our lives individually and as a couple, and even more as parents. What better way to bring your babies into the world than being covered with prayer and surrender to the Lord? And that is obviously something that the Lord needed to keep clear in our minds, and wanted us to take very seriously. I can honestly say that I have never felt closer to my husband or seen his selfless love towards me more than these past months. He keeps amazing me with his support for me and our girls, and I know that it is because of what the Lord is doing in his life. I could go on for days looking at how faithful the Lord has already been to us, and the girls aren't even here yet. It excites me so much to see how He is going to use them. Their tiny little bodies are already living testimonies of our great God and all that He is capable of. Thank you Lord.<br /><br />Jordan and I want to thank each and every one of you for your prayers and support to us, from day one we have felt so many people come around us with so much love and prayer, and we are eternally grateful. Thank you for taking the time out of your precious lives to pray for our little family.<br /><br />We finally finished the girl's nursery, and all is set except for mattresses for the cribs and a few little odds and ends, but here is a little peek into their new home in a few months...<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gm-DTCBgSEs/TvyG2xH8HCI/AAAAAAAAADk/mVUXMYoor84/s1600/babyroom2.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691572304547159074" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gm-DTCBgSEs/TvyG2xH8HCI/AAAAAAAAADk/mVUXMYoor84/s320/babyroom2.JPG" /></a> (a girl always needs a place to hang her favorite hats and headbands) </div><br /><div align="center"><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ohlhTUsTdyM/TvyG2fqeVDI/AAAAAAAAADc/zTBNBccTC94/s1600/babyroom1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691572299860169778" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ohlhTUsTdyM/TvyG2fqeVDI/AAAAAAAAADc/zTBNBccTC94/s320/babyroom1.JPG" /></a>(a very special friend made this for the girls)<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dRY2djCS0kI/TvyG2Mg82HI/AAAAAAAAADM/RjRUrIR4kKo/s1600/photo.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691572294719953010" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dRY2djCS0kI/TvyG2Mg82HI/AAAAAAAAADM/RjRUrIR4kKo/s320/photo.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o21ALApwQH8/TvyG12UlTUI/AAAAAAAAADE/3FhfPyy1Ol4/s1600/babymoon.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 239px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691572288762498370" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o21ALApwQH8/TvyG12UlTUI/AAAAAAAAADE/3FhfPyy1Ol4/s320/babymoon.jpg" /></a><br />(our last night out as a family of 2!)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="left"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YW145xEVWI8/TvyG1mMj6iI/AAAAAAAAAC4/LkuS1DygR0w/s1600/baby5.JPG"></a>Please be in prayer with us tomorrow at 7:30am. That the delivery would go smoothly, that we would hear the loudest cries of our lives as soon as those precious girls come out, and that they would exceed all of the doctors expectations as far as health and development, as they already have. We serve a miracle working God and believe wholeheartedly that our girls will be living proof of that. </div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left">"For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth. Upon you I have leaned from BEFORE my birth; you are he who took me from my mother's womb. My praise is continually of you." Psalm 71: 5-6 </div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left">it's baby time :)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div></div></div><br /></div></div>two sparrowshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16262393263319411658noreply@blogger.com17