{Roberts Family = 3}

2012 - New Beginnings....

2012-01-02T07:35:00.000-08:00

2012....

So here goes nothing...well not really but I am about to expose myself on this blog. Why you ask, well, I feel like if I let you in, you can encourage me! Ok - so Wes and I sat down last night and wrote out several things that we would like to see change or happen in 2012. One of mine is losing 30 pounds. I turn 30 on June 27th and would like to lose 30 before 30. I am overweight not by much but enough that I feel blah and unhealthy! We can't afford all those fancy gym memberships (remember we are building a house right now), but I did sign up for Weight Watchers online. I have done WW before and been very successful, but this was pre-baby and now I have a post-baby body! My first WW go-round, I lost 25 pounds in about 4 months so I am hoping that I can do that again. Confession - I started WW before Christmas and lost about 9 pounds in 4 weeks but hello Christmas and those 9 pounds! Ok so here is my plan. I am going to try to blog on a weekly basis and let you in on how much weight I have lost and recipes and I might even get up the courage to post a before and after picture on here. So feel free to comment and encourage me and if you have any weight loss secrets or success stories please share them!

-On another note - as I mentioned above, we are building a house! Not just any house...but our last house! My grandmother has given us 5 acres of family land and we are just weeks from moving into our house! We couldn't feel more anxious, excited, blessed...you name it! Surprisingly, we have not argued over anything...the only thing Wes requested was a big walk in shower and he is getting that! 6ft.x5ft shower with a shower head adjusted to his 6'3 height!

Sorry to all of my (10) followers that I have not blogged in about a year! Life runs at warp speed around here but one of my resolutions was to be a better blogger!

I am going to post some pictures of the house and a picture or two of BA - he turned 2 on November 3! We are loving every minute with him and enjoying our stubborn little boy!

Hope you have had a great Christmas and that 2012 is good to you!

BA at his 2nd birthday party! It was train- themed! (I have lots more pictures of Party Day and plan on blogging about it!)

{Spring Break Fun}

2011-04-12T18:31:00.000-07:00

Spring Break - a rite of passage for many - for me, well I just thank God that I have made it this far in the school year and that summer is close! Last week was my spring break. I always look forward to spring break because as a teacher it means that the end of the school year is just around the corner! 6 more weeks to be exact and then I am home free for 8 whole weeks!!!!

So Spring Break...when I was 20 it was a perfectly planned beach trip with sorority sisters, but now that I am rounding the corner to 30 it is perfectly fine if I stay home and hang out with my sweet husband and precious son! Fortunately, since Wes works from home, I got to spend some great quality time with my boys! To make it even better my parents came up to see us for a few days as well!

We started off spring break with a fun trip to the Wild Animal Safari in Pine Mountain, GA. We are loving how much there is to do here in Columbus and what is only a few minutes from us!

It was so amazing - we rode a schools bus that had been painted like a zebra! The animals came right up to the window and would eat out of your hand. BA was fascinated by it all and loved it when the animals came close. The safari is 3 miles long and takes about an hour. After about 20 minutes into the safari BA was starting to get sleepy - and this is what happened...

He gave way to the motion of the bus and nap time. So, he slept through the last part of the ride but I know he enjoyed the first part. Once the ride was over, we ate lunch at the Animal Cafe and then ventured out to see the animals that were in the "walk through" section of the park. It was very fun and although I have mixed emotions about seeing animals in cages, it is very interesting to see them up close.

Wes and BA checking out the bears. Daddy was telling BA all about the bears! (I love moments like these!)

Spring Break started off with a bang! We had a blast at the animal safari! I have lots more to post about spring break, but that will have to wait till tomorrow - another post, because this girl is tired! Hope you are having a blessed week!

Happy Spring!

xoxo

{Meagan}

Happy St. Patty's Day {A little late}

2011-04-06T19:17:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to share a few photos from St. Patrick's Day. I bought BA a cute t-shirt at Carters and had to share a few photos of my handsome little man! Enjoy!

This little man melts my heart each day! I love him so!!!!

{Just Sharing My Heart}

2011-03-28T18:24:00.000-07:00

I am FAMOUS for starting a bible study and not finishing it. (I know what you are saying, Kelli Knick, "Yes she is!") But I do start them with the best of intentions and somehow I let other things get in the way or come before spending time in the word. Not my best quality.... Ok, so I decided the other day that I was going to stick to this one, determined to finish it to the end - Thanks to my best friend Kelli, she recommended 'Ruth' - The Living Room Series by Kelly Minter (who is fabulous, by the way!). So yes, I have actually completed almost three weeks of this study and it has pierced my heart, no doubt! I prayed asking God to show up in a mighty way in my life - I have been in need of some "spirit refreshing." He has been teaching me some very cool things these last few weeks! So if you don't mind, I would love to share them with you.... During one of the daily studies, Kelly Minter talked about Ruth and how she left all that she knew to follow her mother-in-law...Really Ruth? Who does that? Your mother-in-law? And Ruth was not even a Christian/believer at the time - she told her mother-in-law that she would follow her and her God. Wow...right there Ruth proves to have a lot more heart than most of us! Ruth had lots to overcome! She lost her husband and was a widow, she was leaving all that she knew to follow her mother-in-law to a foreign land where she knew she wasn't going to be accepted...she had lots to overcome! After reading the first chapter of Ruth, Wes and I were discussing the significance of Ruth arriving in Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest. Now for those of you who know Wes, you know he likes to dig and find the meaning behind everything. So we got on the laptop and began to google...and this is what we found... The barley harvest represented overcomers (not sure if that is a word but, oh well). Barley can also with-stand extreme heat and cold. It was very hearty and was hard to kill. It survived on very little! Ok...wow God, now you have just opened up a whole new meaning. Ruth arrived at the beginning of the barley harvest...think about how much meaning that has - think about what all she has had to endure, will endure and has had to overcome! I can't help but think how amazing it is that we have assurance that Christ has overcome the world! He has overcome death and the grave! I constantly ask myself, "Why do you allow your circumstances to dictate your days when the God that loves you has overcome it all?" I think I can get so caught up in my challenges and struggles that I forget what all He has overcome. I forget that I am His child and that there is nothing that can take that away from me! If you haven't read Ruth you must - it is a short book of the Bible and a great read! I can't help but think about all that Ruth lost and endured, but yet God was already at work before she even arrived in Bethlehem. She goes from widow and poor (collecting the left over barley that was left in the field) to marrying a wealthy man and having a son, Obed - the grandfather of David! Whoa...so for sure God was at work! He is at work in our lives before we even know what is going to happen. He knows the outcome and has overcome! I pray that I can remind myself daily that His plans are best and that I am not called to a life of worry! God is holding our hand even when we think we are walking all alone! Please know that He loves you more than anyone or anything in this world could and wants to walk with you! He has overcome!!!! How awesome that we can wake up each morning with this hope and assurance! Have a blessed week!!! {Meagan}

Weekends are made for FUN!!!

2011-03-27T15:34:00.000-07:00

We have had a great weekend! Our Friday night was filled with dinner at Smokey Bones and Thomas the Train fun (see pics below). Wes had to shoot a wedding on Saturday so BA and I went to lunch with our GiGi. (GiGi is my grandmother and BA's great-grandmother. BA is the youngest (but won't be for long - my cousin is pregnant with great-grand child #13) of 12 great-grandchildren. Our GiGi is great and at 78 she is able to do more than most people younger than her!) We went to lunch at Steak n' Shake! Who doesn't love a great hamburger and chocolate shake?! After lunch we went back to GiGi's house and played for a little bit and then took golf cart ride! Sunday we had a fun and relaxing day! We went to sweet Ava's birthday party at my Aunt's house. My cousin's little girl, Ava, turned 8 today and we celebrated with cake, ice cream and some good old fashioned outside play time! BA had a blast! If anything is remotely associated with the outdoors my child loves it! He played hard and was so dirty when it was time to go home! Playing in the play house outside at Aunt Barbara's or Aunt Nana as we call her!

BA loved the swing because he figured out how to climb into it and get down!

Cousin Jake helping BA out of the swing.

Determined BA was pushing the John Deer Gator around the yard!

Pushing the Gator with a little hlep from daddy.

BA loves to pick up sticks and dirt and leaves and put it in the back of the Gator! Such a boy!

Friday afternoon/evening/night are my favorites! I get to come home, hang out and relax with my two favorite boys! It is so nice to know that you have two days off when Friday afternoon rolls around. Our usual routine is to grab some dinner out and then come home and play! We made a pit-stop after dinner at Toys-R-Us! Brock-Allen got his first Thomas the Train set! Just a brief history - Thomas is the one and only at our house! Brock-Allen will sit still for 20 minutes just mesmerized by Thomas on TV! Thankfully we have lots of Thomas to keep the obsession strong! Of course, Wes and I have memorized all the Thomas songs and lines to the movies. Ok...so after we went to Toys-R-Us we took our new Thomas purchase home and set up the train tracks! Brock-Allen loved helping his daddy by taking the tracks and dragging them all over the house. Once the track was set, Daddy and BA enjoyed watching Thomas go round' and round' the track!

Watching Thomas go through the tunnel.

Waiting for Thomas to come through the tunnel.

Mesmerized by Thomas!

We put jammies on and played before bed time! Daddy showing BA that Thomas can go through the tunnel.

Checking out a piece of the Thomas track.

(Also, notice the cute outfit he is wearing made by OkaySewWhat on Etsy! I have a slight obession with Etsy...I love handmade things!)

Pushing Thomas around on the carpet.

We hope you had a blessed weekend as well! Enjoy time with your family! Every moment is a blessing and gift from God!

Love to All,

{Meagan}

What a Beautiful Day!!!!

2011-03-24T18:26:00.001-07:00

The weather today was wonderful! High 76 and sunny...not a cloud in the sky! After a long, rough, hard day at work I came home to my sweet hubby and precious little man! Wes had Brock-Allen's backpack ready and said, "Let's go for a walk at the park." Of course I didn't hesitate! To spend a moment with my two boys, I jump at every opportunity! So off we went to the park to watch the ducks, walk and just enjoy each others company! Sometimes it is the simple things in life that let you know you are the most loved! Especially when the Lord provides you with moments like these!

BA loves riding in his stroller! He just loves being outside!

Daddy was telling BA all about the ducks!

Checking out the ducks!

Walking with Mommy!

(Just wanted to let you know that his shirt does say "Dad Rules" but in fine red print under that it says "Until Mom gets home!" Yes sir...I do rule)

Have a wonderful Weekend!

Many Blessings,

{Meagan}

Learning...

2011-03-22T17:13:00.000-07:00

So now that Brock-Allen is 16 months old, we are trying to get him used to holding a spoon and putting it in his food. I have started with yogurt, pudding, etc...things that are easy to scoop and easy to transfer to his mouth. OK - so tonight we gave him vanilla pudding and a spoon and let him go to town. He had the best time trying to spoon it into his own mouth. Once he was tired of the spoon he decided to just put his hands in it! Obviously, when you are 16 months old that is much more fun than using a spoon! I think he got more on himself and his shirt than actually went into his mouth, but who cares....from a teacher perspective he was learning about texture and problem solving! After the pudding explosion, he, of course, needed a bath! Enjoy our evening of pudding, a bath and some fun play time before bed.

I love this picture of him pointing! He is saying his favorite phrase "You See?"

After the pudding "explosion," a bath was in order!

Of course, he enjoys every minute of his bath time...complete with Thomas the Tank Engine tub toys and boat!

We then enjoyed some fun play time before it was time for "Jammies" and bed.

This little boy makes each day brighter and we never have a dull moment! I wouldn't trade it for one moment of quiet time!

Love and Blessings,

{Meagan}

"What-a-Ya Have, What-a-Ya Have"

2011-03-21T18:27:00.000-07:00

So, two weeks ago we took a short afternoon/evening trip to "Hotlanta" to see Wes' best friend Barrett Foster. For those of you that don't know, Barrett was in a terrible car accident on January 25th outside of Troy, AL. When we received the phone call that afternoon that he had been in a car accident and his prognosis was not good, we fell to our knees with tears running down our faces and asked God to intervene in a mighty way! Wes immediately dropped what he was doing and headed to Montgomery to be with Michelle, their kids and the rest of the Foster family. Barrett spent several weeks at UAB hospital in Birmingham, before being transferred to the Shepard Center in Atlanta for rehab. Barrett and his wife, Michelle, mean the world to us and are like an aunt and uncle to Brock-Allen. (We call them Aunt Michelle and Uncle Barrett.) I praise God for Barrett and his friendship to Wes. They have stuck by each other through the good and bad; have encouraged each other and held each other accountable. Every wife should pray for that friend for her husband! I am so thankful for Michelle and how God has proven to her that he is real and will take care of her family! God has proven himself to be true and we know he is not finished with Barrett! Barrett is a true testimony of God's grace, mercy and love.
Since we were going to see our Uncle Barrett, Wes wanted to make a pit stop - at his favorite hot dog joint! The Varsity! The Varsity, the place for the true Atlanta chili dog (and heartburn)! We enjoyed a chili dog, (Wes enjoyed 3 chili dogs) and then made our way to see Barrett at the Shepard Center! It brought tears to my eyes when we walked in his room and we was propped up in bed watching tv and smiling! The last time I saw him he was in ICU with tubes coming out everywhere and not even breathing on his own....but now he was our Barrett again! Although he still has a long road of therapy ahead, we know that God will see him through it all! Barrett, we love you more than you will ever know and I am so thankful for you, especially for what you mean to Wes! Praying for you always!
You can keep up with Barrett and check out his progress at his Caring Bridge website -

www.caringbridge.org/visit/barrettfoster

Here is a picture from outside the Varsity- March 11, 2011

Many Blessings,

{Meagan}

Enjoy a "Moment" with me...

2011-03-19T18:04:00.000-07:00

Being this little boys mother is the most amazing journey God has allowed me to embark on! Every day is new and no matter what he loves me! He loves me despite my faults, how I look, how I dress...he loves me! And I will always love him. I never understood a mothers love or the impact it could have on one's life until I met this little guy on November 3, 2009. He took my breath away and still does each and every day! Brock-Allen, I love you with all my heart. Thank you for allowing me to be your mommy!

Long Lost Blogger...

2011-03-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot I had a blog - seriously! Life has been moving at such a rapid pace that I rarely have time to take a breath, but I wouldn't have it any other way. So much has taken place since my last post - this time last year! I am not even sure where to begin! So here it goes -

1. We moved! That's right! We packed up our little cottage and moved away from all that we knew. We left our beloved little town of Troy, Al and headed to the "big" Phenix City. I was offered a job teaching at Loyd Elementary on post at Ft. Benning. I am an official employee of the Department of Defense. I am so thankful that God has given us this opportunity. Though I second guess our decision at times, I am grateful for all that He has blessed us with. We have met some amazing people, found an incredible church, and are making some lasting relationships with my family that is close by! Although our cottage has not sold, God has provided so amazing renters! We are living in an apartment in Phenix City, which some days is not ideal with a 16 month old little boy that has more energy than I can keep up with, but God is meeting our needs and continues to provide all that we need and ask for! We are going to begin the house hunting journey, praying that the Lord will open up a door and provide us a house in a great neighborhood and within our budget! We are trusting Him!

2. Brock-Allen turned 1! Yes sir he did! And now, 16 months old, he is learning more and more each day, saying new words daily, running (not walking), playing non-stop, and just enjoying life as a little boy. He weighs a solid 30 lbs and is around 34 inches tall. He wears 2t-3t size clothes and a 6 1/2 shoe! He is growing so fast I feel like like I buy him new clothes and shoes weekly! We have been battling lots of sickness. BA had ear tubes put in during November 2010 and that went great, no ear infections since then! But, we have had the flu (2 times), tonsillitis, and pneumonia! But praise God, he did great and bounced right back each time! Wes and I are so blessed that he is such a sweet, healthy, lovable little boy! Thank you, God!

Cake is delicious!

The party was amazing and we all had a blast!

BA had to get tubes put in his ears in November 2010. Our ENT doctor is amazing and we were blessed that BA did great and has been ear infection free since then!

3. Wes Roberts Photography is still going strong! Wes continues to work from home and spend great quality time with Brock-Allen on a daily basis! Before BA was born, we prayed that the Lord would allow one of us to stay at home with him and He has! The photography business is still going strong and continues to grow by leaps and bounds! Wes has learned so much about himself and his business over the past year. His pictures are better and better each day! He recently went out to Las Vegas to the annual WPPI photography convention. He had a great experience and had 6 intense days filled with learning new tricks! I am so thankful for Wes' heart and how God continues to use photography to impact people and share the gospel!
Check out how awesome some of his recent work is: http://www.wesrobertsphotography.com/

So, there is just a short recap of our past year! Of course, lots more has happened in between all of that but it would take days to type it all out! I hope I have not lost my faithful blog readers and I pray that you are doing well!

Brock-Allen - 1 year photo shoot - November 2010

Much Love, Meagan

A Little of Everything!!!!

2010-03-30T09:48:00.001-07:00

I know I am blogging about this a little late...but...for Spring Break we headed to Winter Haven, Florida! My parents live there and it is where I grew up! It only about 45 minutes outside of Orlando...so you can imagine we had a blast! BA had a lot of "firsts" that week! He had his first trip to a theme park, first bite of "solid" food (cereal and sweet peas), first time riding in his big boy stroller...Enjoy the pictures. I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying this beautiful spring time weather! Have a great Easter. Take time to reflect on what Christ did for us as he suffered and died a cruel death on the Cross. What an amazing thing! Praise the Lord He did that for me!

We visited Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando

Universal City Walk lights up at night will all kinds of fun - due to having a baby we no longer get to participate in any sort of night life...but that is OK we would not trade it for anything!

Riding in my big boy stroller!

Meeting Popeye and Olive Oil! BA was very interested in Popeye. Please excuse the fact that I have a whole lot more weight to lose after carrying my sweet boy for 9 months! (Boy...pictures sure do let you know when you need to fix something!)

Wes (or Uncle Bubba) (as Caden and Paige (my sister's children) call him) with Caden!

Nick Studios at Universal Studios Orlando

Hanging out in my stroller. BA is and was such a great baby that day! He enjoyed taking in all the sights!

My first taste of cereal. BA was not to sure about the whole spoon thing, but he has since gotten the hang of it and loves his food!!

Daddy giving me my cereal for the first time!

Uncle Bubba and Baby Paige. Obviously Paige is no longer a baby....when my sister found out she was pregnant with Paige, Caden started calling his new sister, "baby Paige" and it has stuck...that is what we all call her now :) I love nick names :)

BA hanging out with Auntie Summer (my sister)!

Hope you enjoyed your spring break as much as we did!

Love to all!!!

BA turns 3 months old....

2010-03-18T18:21:00.000-07:00

Here are a few shots from BA's 3 month session...kind of a month late getting them up since he is now 4 months old but oh well!!!
He is growing like a weed...rolling over, holding his head up, laughing, "talking" to us, discovering a love for baby food and baby cereal...I could go on and on!!! Wes and are enjoying every moment - watching him grow and discover! Enjoy the pics!
*Of course Wes took them! I love having a husband that is a professional photographer!!!

FUN....in the Snow

2010-02-16T12:39:00.000-08:00

On Friday, Feb. 12, it snowed in Troy!!! It was so beautiful! We got around 5-6 inches of snow. Of course I was off work for a snow day because us South Alabamians do not know how to drive in the snow....so Wes and I enjoyed the day watching the snow fall and hanging out with BA!

We took BA outside for a few minutes to capture a couple of pictures with him in the snow....he liked it for a few minutes, but some snow hit him in the face and he let us know he had enough!

BA is 3 1/2 months old and growing like a weed! Wes had to take him to the doctor last Wednesday because a runny nose turned into a small infection...so we are on our very first dose of antibiotics. He weighed 13.3 pounds and is around 25 inches long - he is very long and skinny! He is wearing 6-9 months size clothes for the length but everything is too big in the shoulders and waist! I have a feeling I am going to have a hard time keeping up with his growing as far as clothing is concerned :) BA continues to learn new"tricks" (as Wes and I call them) he is smiling, laughing, cooing at us and his toys, loves watching Baby Einstein, smiles when he sees mommy and daddy, and holding his head up very well while on his tummy....we are loving every moment! We have also started transitioning BA to sleeping in his crib - he has been in a cradle in our room since he was born. I think this has been harder on me than him...I like knowing he is right beside me, but I am working on it! Wes loves working from home and hanging out with BA during the day! We feel so blessed that photography has allowed Wes to work from home!

I hope everyone had a great Valentine's Day!

We miss and love you all!

xoxo - Meagan

Organizing for 2010

2010-01-09T14:54:00.000-08:00

So we all make New Year's Resolutions...and this year is no different for me...
Although we did not manage to stay awake to see 2009 turn into 2010, I am still making a resolution! My resolution - to organize my tiny cottage! Now that I have a sweet baby and his numerous toys, swings, bouncy seats, diapers, wipes, etc...taking up some space, our 1200 square foot cottage is slowly closing in on us! No, this will not be the house we grow old in, but I would like for it to be organized while we are here! Now, let me just say that organization is not a characteristic of mine, but for 2010 I am going to try my best! The biggest issue is our teeny tiny closets! Since this cottage was built in the 1940's closet/storage space is well...non-existent! I have bought some storage cubes from Lowe's that my wonderful husband assembled and I put them in BA's closet to organize the diapers, wipes, bath products, etc. I am thinking of putting them in our closets to make the space more efficient! But what I really need is some creative ideas! If you have any, leave me a comment and let me know what they are! Another critical issue is this...my teeny tiny dinning room is going to become Wes's home office. No, this is not an ideal situation but it is the best right now - with the photography business booming, he needs the space to spread out his computer stuff, camera stuff, and printing stuff! So, I am going to have to search for some creative ideas to make it flow with the rest of the house....I don't want it to look junkie. With all that said, shoot me some ideas! Have a great Weekend!!!

Love yall,

Meagan

Go Troy Trojans and 2 month check up!

2010-01-06T10:23:00.000-08:00

Wow...2 blogs in 2 days...is this girl for real?!

So today we had our 2 month check up for our sweet BA...
He weighed 11lbs. 12oz. and was 24 inches long! He is a growing boy! He also got his first set of shots :( (I think he did better than mommy did)! He did rather well...he let out a loud cry...one where you have to remind them to take a breath...kinda cry...and then daddy picked him up and he calmed down...and by the time we had made it back to the car he was asleep (probably from the Tylenol) God Bless some Tylenol! So all was well and the doctor said he looked fantastic and was developing normally. Now you know the Special Education Teacher in me makes sure we are hitting developmental milestones!

Here are some pictures Wes took when he was just a week old!

On another note....The Fabulous Troy University Trojans are playing in the GMAC Bowl tonight in Mobile, Alabama! Just wanted to give a shot out and cheer for my Alma Mater! Wes and I both graduated from Troy and we love our little school!

Hope everyone is staying warm - we have a chance of snow tomorrow here is beautiful Troy, Alabama...hope it happens!

Blessings, Meagan

I am still here....

2010-01-04T10:23:00.000-08:00

So since my life has dramatically changed (for the better) I have kinda abandoned the blog...
On November 3rd, 2009 we were blessed with an amazing gift...our baby boy, Brock Allen arrived at 4:23 pm! He weighed 8lbs. 15 oz and was 21 1/4 inches long!
With all the feedings, diaper changes, laundry, holding my sweet little boy, tummy time, and just being a mommy I have had little time to even look at a computer. With that said, I love motherhood! What a special and amazing miracle Wes and I have experienced! My labor and delivery went very well...slightly painful as my epidural did not take on one side...but it was all worth it when I laid eyes on my sweet little man! He is perfect in every way...and we are so blessed to have a healthy baby! He is a good sleeper and loves to be held! We have hit the 2 month milestone and he has slept a straight 6 hours several nights in a row! I have been blessed to have a long maternity leave but will be going back to work on Jan. 19th. It is bittersweet...Wes will be taking over at home once I return to teaching. He has turned in his resignation to Troy University and will be a stay at home dad and a full time photographer! Our photography business has been growing like crazy so we have made the decision to push it even further into a full time career! Please pray for us as we take this huge step of faith and trust that this is where the Lord is leading us...and if you know someone that had a need for a photographer...send them our way...we do travel! (http://www.wesrobertsphotography.com/)
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and New Year! Happy 2010...I will leave you with some newborn pictures of our sweet boy - Brock Allen!!!

Lots of Love for 2010,

Meagan xo

2009-10-31T10:31:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to give a quick update -
I am 39 weeks pregnant and will be induced on Tuesday, Nov. 3rd. We have to arrive at the hospital at 5am Tuesday morning! Hopefully we will get to meet our sweet little man sometime that day! I am very excited, nervous, anxious, overwhelmed...you name it, but I know the Lord has my best interest at heart and will be with me the entire time! I am blessed that my mother will be with Wes and I also - she is arriving today and staying with us about a week and a half! Please keep us in your prayers as we enter this new chapter in our lives!
Have a Blessed Weekend!

Blessings,
Meagan

Mini-Photo Session and Baby Update

2009-10-07T19:58:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to post a few pics from my mini-photo session (33 weeks pregnant) that my wonderful husband did (http://www.wesrobertsphotography.com/).
I do love some of these shots - although I am not fond of the weight I have gained these past 8 months. Oh well, it is all for a great cause, right!
Also, another baby update - We had a 35 week check-up today...everything went well! I am measuring at 38 weeks though, but no worries. I have an ultrasound next week so the doctor can get an estimate on size and weight. I have a feeling our little man is going to be on the hefty side since his daddy was almost 11lbs. and 23 inches long - I feel like my mother-in-law gave birth to a toddler :) But all is well - so that is all that matters! I guess that is all for now - I will keep everyone updated on the doctor visits! Have a great week - it is almost Friday!!!

Blessings,

Meagan

Updates....

2009-10-06T11:44:00.000-07:00

Has it really been almost a month since I have posted anything....
It really has!!! Just wanted to give everyone a quick update on what's been going on with the Roberts' at the 504 Cottage....

1. Wes' Photography business is going strong! The Lord is continuing to bless him (us) with continued bookings and we are looking forward to the 2010 "Wedding Season!" Please pray with us that we continue to look to the Lord for guidance and run our business with honesty, integrity and glorify Him through all that we do! If you are in need of a photographer (and a great one at that) look him up - www.wesrobertsphotography.com

2. We have had the Swine Flu!!! Yes, that is right folks...Last week, Sept. 28, I visited my regular physician for what I thought was a bad chest cold. Well, I was told I had bronchitis and was given an antibiotic and told to stay home a day or so and rest. Well, by Wednesday, I was miserable and worse than I was on Monday. I had a scheduled 34 week OB check-up...my doctor noticed that I was obviously deathly sick and was running a fever - along with all of this - our little man was not moving very much and I was having some contractions (at 34 weeks). So my OB doctor (who I love, love, love) sent Wes and I on over to the hospital so that they could monitor the baby and so that I could get a flu swab. They were able to get the baby to move by some force and we established a strong heart beat on the monitor after about an hour of monitoring...the contractions were thought to be coming on because of dehydration. After that was over, we headed to the Lab at the hospital for the flu swab. We left the hospital and it wasn't 10 minutes later that my doctor called and said that I had tested positive for Type A flu virus (H1N1) and he was going to call in Tamiflu for both Wes and myself. On top of me being sick as a dog, Wes was coming down with it as well...so we both stayed home for most of last week and just did nothing, but watch some movies and sleep! We are both on the mend, but have been told the cough and congestion can last up to 2 weeks after the initial virus is gone...so we are still coughing and blowing our noses :) Thankfully, little man is still ok and it has not affected my breathing much!

3. With all that said, we are 35 weeks pregnant! Only 5 weeks to go...or as my baby counter says 32 days....what!! We are not prepared...still have lots of little items that we need to get to make our little man comfortable when we bring him home...I think Mommy is going to need a few things as well :) But needless to say, we are thrilled and can't wait to meet him!!! Wes and I are so thankful for God bringing us this far with the pregnancy - we pray little man holds out a few more weeks so that he is properly developed! On a side note, I was able to pencil myself into Wes' calendar and he did a mini photo shoot of me pregnant at 33 weeks...I will try to post those tonight :)

4. Home renovations are still in the works, but have obviously been pushed to the back burner...
We are waiting on our painter to begin working on the outside - I love the colors I have picked out for the 504 cottage! We do, however, have all new doors and windows! It is nice to be able to open a window for some fresh air. The original windows (1940's) were painted shut and not in operation. We did make sure the contractor saved them for us - so if you are in need of an old window for decorating...let me know we have about 15 of them :) We would also like to do some landscaping in the spring...back and front yard - and fix up our small back patio area!

*I believe that is all for now...I am excited that Fall has arrived here in Alabama! The weather cooling off really makes a pregnant woman happy! I hope you have a great week and your October is filled with beautiful fall colors and pumpkins on your door step!

Blessings,
Meagan

Can I Share My Heart For a Moment...

2009-09-10T12:03:00.000-07:00

2 Corinthians 12:9 (English Standard Version)

9But he said to me, (A) "My grace is sufficient for you, for(B) my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that(C) the power of Christ may rest upon me.

*This particular verse helps me through many of my days. I have felt the need for it recently as I am in the end of this pregnancy and starting to feel anxiety of welcoming our little man into the world. My hormones have my emotions jumping from excitement to nervousness to tears...and I am not sleeping much as my mind races of things that need to be accomplished in the next 8 weeks and contemplating what position will be most comfortable to accommodate this growing belly.

I have to remind myself that no matter my circumstances, His grace is sufficient and made perfect in my weakness...If you think of me in your prayer time... please pray that my anxiety will lessen and I will rest in the grace and comfort that the Lord so graciously provides us.

Thanks for listening to my heart just for a moment...

I hope the Lord is blessing you always!!!

xoxo, Meagan

Nursery Details and more....

2009-09-07T18:34:00.000-07:00

I have not blogged in so long...

I have not really been that busy just tired. I have entered my third trimester - I am at 31 weeks this week to be exact! The early pregnancy tiredness has returned and I find myself on the couch more these days! Many wise mothers have told me to cherish the "couch moments" because they will soon disappear after my little man arrives. We are continuing to work on the nursery. The "tree mural" has been painted and is complete thanks to a lovely client of Wes' and a good friend of ours! Ms. Erin (who is getting married in Oct. and Wes is shooting the wedding) came over several nights to paint the tree for us! We love it and if any of you are in need of her services, please let me know...she does a wonderful job at painting murals in nurseries! The crib has been put together and my wonderful mother purchased the crib bumper that I registered for! The curtains have been hung also, thanks to my loving and hard working husband! We have purchased some shelves to go over the changing table and some organizers for the closet! There are a few more items to complete the room...but I have time to make it all come together!

On another note, I am having my first shower on Sept. 19...my sweet cousin, Jenny, has planned a "family shower" for me! I love the invitations, as they have a cute blue bird sitting on a tree branch, matching little man's room! Wes and I feel extremely blessed that everyone is looking out for us and has provided so much for us as we prepare for our son's arrival! Enjoy the pictures below and have a blessed week!!!

The crib has been pushed up against the wall with the tree over it.

"Ms. Erin" hard at work!

The tree is finished!

Little Man's white Jenny Lind crib with the great bumper I registered for.

The faux silk curtins paired with a white roman shade.

Blessings, Meagan

A Few Pics at 6 months/25 Weeks...

2009-07-29T12:24:00.000-07:00

Being the wife of a photographer, I normally have no pictures of myself or my husband and I together...but I made him capture these few shots one afternoon to document my pregnancy.

*All pictures by Wes Roberts Photography - www.wesrobertsphotography.com

Blessings,

Meagan

New Banner...

2009-07-22T14:36:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that my super-talented photographer husband designed me a super cute banner in photoshop.
I love it and think it is is just perfect for my blog...
and for those of you that need photography services check out his website...
www.wesrobertsphotography.com or his blog www.wesrobertsphotography.typepad.com

I think he is quite fantastic!

Have a great day!

Meagan

More for the Nursery...

2009-07-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

Just a few more items I have purchased for our Little Man's nursery.

It is coming together...I can't wait to get the mural painted on the wall! It is going to be started next week!
Enjoy and Have a great week!!!

This is the crib skirt that I purchased on Amazon.com, just $19.95. It is by Carter's, an ecru and white stripped skirt. It will match the ecru sheets and brown crib bumper perfectly!

I found these wonderful faux silk floor length panels, in chocolate brown, at Walmart; $17.00 a panel! I hung them on solid white wooden curtain rods.

This area rug was a great find at Lowe's. My mom so graciously purchased this for Little Man's room! It is a cute shaggy, ivory rug and really softens the room up and makes it feel cozy! Wes and I have all hardwood floors in our cottage so I love a good area rug! This rug will make a great place for some play time when our sweet boy arrives!

Hopefully my fabric will arrive this week and I can have my pillows made for the daybed! I will hopefully get to post some of my own pics soon!

Blessings,

Meagan

4 months to go...

2009-07-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

Well for those of you that do not know we are having a....BOY!!! We are very excited and thrilled (but more so for the fact that he is healthy and developing well!)
I have narrowed down my nursery choice to "trees and birds."
We have begun the exciting process of getting his room ready for his special arrival the first week of November. The colors for the room are shades of blue and chocolate brown. The room has been painted a pale blue color called "water glass blue" by Martha Stewart available at Lowe's.

I hope you enjoy my selections and hopefully I can post pictures soon of the completed room!

This is the fabric that will be used as accent pillows on the day bed. We have purchased a day bed to put in the nursery for extra sleeping space. (Found this fabulous fabric online at Hancocks of Paducah.com

I am using mix and match stuff from Baby's R Us. I am not a "matchy" type person and do not prefer "bedding sets" and matching furniture. It looks great in other peoples homes and nurseries but it is not my style. This will be the crib bumper, it is so sweet and soft. I am using ecru sheets and an ecru crib skirt - sweet and simple.

My parents have so graciously purchased our Little Man's crib. It is a Jenny Lind crib in white. I am mixing the furniture and wood tones as well. The dresser, that will double as a changing table, is an antique honey oak dresser that was in my own nursery as an infant and then was my dresser all the way through high school. My mother has allowed me to bring to my house to use in the nursery. What makes it even more special is the fact that my grandmother bought it and refinished it for my mother when I was born!

And lastly, we are having a tree painted in the room similar to the one in this Pottery Barn picture. Ignore all of the other things in the picture - we are just using the idea of this tree. The sweet girl who is painting for me will be here on Saturday morning to scope out things and look at the room so we can decide the best place to paint the tree!

I am so excited and can't wait for it to all come together!

Blessings,
Meagan

My lastest obsession...

2009-04-21T17:18:00.000-07:00

Since all you now know that we will have a new addition in November...I am going to share with you my latest obsession...

BABY Rooms - of course!
We will not find out what it is until June, but I already have my eye on some ideas and bedding that I love. If you have any ideas please share them with me! I hope you enjoy some of my ideas that I have found. I will hopefully be able to post a picture of my latest find - a rocker/recliner for the nursery ( I purchased it at Goodwill for a mere $10). I am going to have a slip cover made for it when I finally decide on what to do with the room!

Be Blessed

Meagan

This bird picture could quite possibly be the inspiration for my nursery! I love it!

I love the rug in this nursery and those curtains are great (from IKEA - my sister has these in my nephew's room)

Maybe my handy husband could whip up one of these great little changing/storage stations (in his spare time between running financial aid, running his photography business, and taking care of his pregnant wife!)

And a baby will make 3...

2009-04-21T10:00:00.001-07:00

Just in case you haven't heard the news...Wes and I are expecting our first child in November! We couldn't be happier! We had our first "real" ultrasound last week and we were able to hear the heart beat and see the little peanut moving! It was such an awesome experience! We feel so blessed already and have not even met the little peanut yet! Wes is continuing to get better...He is still on steroid drops for his eye but the swelling has decreased tremendously! He still has a fuzzy haze over his eye, which will probably have to be removed with surgery, and some back pain, but all things are looking up! He has been a great care-taker for me! I have had horrible morning sickness that can last all day at times! My OB doctor has given me some wonderful medication to help with the nausea, but I keep telling myself that in the end this will all be worth it! I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter and is enjoying the wonderful spring weather! I will hopefully get some ultrasound pictures up soon along with pictures of our new doors and windows. We are also getting ready to embark on a journey that will test our marriage - we are getting ready to paint the outside of our house! For any of you that have been home renovators know what I am talking about! Please pray that the painting goes smoothly and that we will still love each other in the end :) !

Have a wonderful week!

Meagan

Many Thanks

2009-04-06T08:21:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who commented and who have been and who are continuing to pray for Wes. We still have a long way to go to get him better. If anyone likes specifics to pray about, we are asking that you pray for Wes' right eye. He has a form of Ankylosing Spondilitis. I know that is a long word but what it boils down to is....it is an auto-immune disease that can manifest itself and flair up in other parts of your body. Right now it is in Wes' right eye. It has caused Iritis (yes all these big words) - which is severe inflamation in the eye. People have lost their vision from this disease. He has been battling this for about 3 weeks now. The doctors are keeping it dialted and he is using drops several times a day. The inflamation has caused a cataract type plaque to form on his lens which means the only to correct his vision will be through sugery. He is very frustrated because he cannot see out of that eye and it is very sensitive to the light. We do go back to the specialist this Friday, we are praying for great news!
Sorry for the medical run-down of Wes, but I am sure you will pray specifically for the eye!
Thanks to everyone! We love all of you! We pray many blessings come your way!

Prayers...Please

2009-03-30T17:27:00.000-07:00

Wow - I feel like a stranger to the blogging world! I have been so busy, I have not been able to keep up with the blog. I just wanted to post a short something to let you know where we have been and that we (Wes and I) desperatly need your prayers. Wes has been going through some serious medical issues and we need your prayers. It is way to complicated and involves many long words that are hard to pronounce but hopefully the doctors will be able to get everything worked out and get him treated! We know that the Lord is faithful and He will see us through this trial, but we could not do it without the prayers of our friends! I will hopefully be able to post more in the coming days but just thought I would ask you guys for prayers!
Thanks for uplifting us!!!!

Be Blessed,

Meagan

In Need of a Little Inspiration...

2009-02-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

I am in need of a little inspiration...I am trying to be creative, yet budget friendly with decorating my cottage. I have found a few ideas for decorating - mostly just inspiration to get ideas turning in my head.

I love this dresser - but what I love more is the wall behind the dresser.

I love the linens on this bed! I have a shabby chic room - but the bed in that room is in need of a fresh set of linens. Any ideas?

This living room is precious to me - I am so excited to announce that my custom roman shades have been completed and will be hung in my house this weekend! That's right my friends, goodbye blinds, hello custom shades! The shades have been custom designed and made by one of my very best friends, Molly Rigoloso of Henderson and Rigoloso, Drapery and Design. She is a great designer with a great, creative eye! If you are in need of some of her services, let me know and I will be happy to pass along her contact information!

I love those red end tables for a punch of color!

I am also in the process of renovating my little cottage laundry room. I am going to post some before pictures later tonight but for now I can explain - it is an indoor/outdoor room. It has great concrete floors and original tongue and groove walls and ceiling. It is fabulous - just in need of some freshness! I love this storage idea - not sure if it is practical but it sure looks cute!

Hopefully I will find some inspiration to assist me with my continuous cottage renovation. If you have any ideas please let me know! Hope you are having a great Wednesday!

Blessings,
Meagan

That's a cute Idea...

2009-02-16T06:50:00.000-08:00

Here are just a few cute ideas I found while searching the Internet last night. I am always on the look out for a cute idea that does not take much money to complete! Hope you enjoy your day - I am enjoying a day off of work thanks to President's Day!

This is an idea for a chic but cheap headboard. All you need are 8 square canvas' and 8 vintage hankies. Mount the each vintage hankie on a canvas (the spray glue works best). When you are finished, hang them above a bed for an incredible head board. Vintage hankies are inexpensive and this is a great way to display your collection.

I thought this idea was great! You will need an old window frame. Paint it the color of your choice. Paint a piece of cut plywood with chalk board paint. Mount the painted plywood on the back of the window frame and viola...You have the cutest chalk board in town!

Hopefully I will find us some more creative and inexpensive cute ideas! If you have any to share, please leave me a comment...I would love to see your chic, cheap ideas!

Have a great Monday!

Meagan

Choose Hope...

2009-02-11T12:45:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't know...

During the summer of 2008, one of my greatest heroes - my Dad, was diagnosed with Bladder Cancer. Bladder Cancer...that was the first time I had heard of anyone being diagnosed with that. He has come through so much - they removed the cancerous tumor in his bladder in June, 2008. He began treatments shortly after that. He is still in the process of his treatments and will continue them until the doctor feels confident that he can stop. My prayer is that this June we can celebrate 1 year cancer free! My father is such an incredible man. Not only did he work extremely hard to provide the best for my mother, my sister and myself - but he also raised me with great values and morals. He cares for and loves me so much and for that I grateful! He would always take time out of his busy life and made sure he spent time with all of us! He takes such good care of my mother and loves her so much! My parents will be married 29 years in April!

With all of this being said, I found an amazing website that supports all different types of cancers! I have been searching for the designated "color" for bladder cancer and some stuff to buy to support bladder cancer awareness and research. I have found that on the Choose Hope, Inc. website - http://www.choosehope.com/

For those of you who have had cancer affect your life in one way or another - my prayers go out to you! It is never easy, but know that the Lord has plans for your life (Jeremiah 29:11). Continue to pray for my dad, we still have a long road ahead of us, but God is good and I know he will see us through all of it...and to my dad...I love you with all of my heart! I am the women I am today because of all you have done for me over the years! You are truly one of my hero's! No one will ever take the place you hold in my heart! I am praying for you daily! I know the Lord will continue to restore your body!

Many Blessings,

Meagan

Where have I been...

2009-02-08T19:32:00.000-08:00

Well...let me tell you where I have been...

I have been everywhere but blog land! Sorry I disappeared since Christmas! Is it really February? A lot has happened over the past couple of months!

Wes and I have finally opened our studio in downtown Troy. The renovations have made the studio look amazing! We have not officially opened, but of course we are still booking weddings and portrait settings. We are planning an open house to officially open the studio! If you need a photographer call us up (http://www.wesrobertsphotography.com/). (Had to put the business plug in!) God has continued to bless our photography business. He has opened up many doors for Wes! Wes has stayed booked and busy - Pray for us as we continue to seek Him about what is best for us and our business!

We also have some great news...we have a new niece in town! My sister gave birth to her second sweet child on Friday, Jan. 30, 2009. Paige Marie came into this world a healthy, beautiful girl! Wes and I are thrilled to have a new niece and can't wait till we can hold and kiss her chubby cheeks!

Here is big brother Caden (he is 3 1/2). He is loving his new little sister!

Here is Caden and little Paige Marie again...Love those thumbs up from big brother. Paige, savor those thumbs up - who knows how long those will last...

Paige's first few pictures after only a few hours in our big world!

I can't wait to teach her girly and sassy things...my sister refers to me as a "hair bow." I am a Chi Omega Alumni and am still very involved in my sorority chapter. I am a chapter advisor...so of course - Paige, as my only Chi Omega legacy at the moment, will be decked out in owl stuff (Chi Omega's mascot) as well as the Chi Omega letters. She already has Chi Omega shirt and is only a week old!

I hope everyone has a great week! I promise to be more faithful to blog land! Please continue to read my posts...I am not sure if anyone even reads...but I sure do love to blog!

I will leave you with a recent pic of Wes and I...when you are a photographer...you never have decent pictures together - so we have to settle for the ole' digital camera "self" portrait!

Blessings,

Meagan

For the Love of a Bird Plate!!!

2008-12-29T20:05:00.000-08:00

*Remember those fabulous red bird plates I posted about several months ago. Well...they did find their way to my Christmas table settings!
I love them, Enjoy!

Post-Christmas Pics

2008-12-29T19:35:00.000-08:00

Just thought I would share with everyone some pics from the 504 cottage! I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and are looking forward to 2009!

The front door of the 504 Cottage

Some fabulous Adirondack chairs made by the shop class at the high school I teach at!

The 504 Cottage. I love this house!

My sweet little Christmas Tree.

One of my most prized possessions! My 'Willow Tree' Nativity set - what makes it so special is that my mom and my husband have stocked me with each piece! I love the simplicity of this Nativity!

Be Blessed!

Meagan

Christmas at the Govenor's Mansion

2008-12-23T20:57:00.001-08:00

The husband and I went to the Governor's Mansion in Montgomery, AL on Monday night. Each year the Governor (Bob Riley) and his wife (Patsy Riley) open their home up a few nights in December to the public. The decorations are just fabulous! Of course I was also noticing fabric on furniture, crown molding, and beautifully restored wood floors! Enjoy the pics! We only snapped a few because sadly our camera died before we left. Have a Merry Christmas (Alabama style!)

The "Black and White" Room was decorated by Pasty Riley herself! It was stated that this is the Governor and First Lady's favorite room to spend time in!

If you live near or are ever in the area during the Christmas Holiday's you should check out the tours! The mansion is beautiful. There is also a sister house next door to the mansion, the Hill House, that First Lady, Patsy Riley, has raised money to restore and has fully restored! It is gorgeous!

Blessings,

Meg

A little Christmas Spirit...

2008-12-05T10:52:00.000-08:00

Wow...Can you believe it is already December 5th?! Just thought I would share some great Christmas decor ideas! I love this time of year because there is so much that you can do with all of your Christmas decorations. Try to use what you have - just think about it with a new satin ribbon or some great "charlie brown lights." I hope everyone has a great weekend. The husband and I will be in Birmingham, Alabama to shoot a wedding! Enjoy the cold weather and the Reason for the Season!

Blessings,

Meagan

All pictures found in Country Living.

It has been a while...

2008-11-29T19:22:00.000-08:00

Where have I been.....
I have been everywhere. We have been so busy here at the 504 cottage. Christmas photo shoots, Thanksgiving dinners, decorating for Christmas, and shooting an out of town wedding (and by out of town I mean 8 hours from my cottage)! Although I have enjoyed every minute of being busy, I sure love coming home with nothing to do! Among all this my sweet husband braved Black Friday with me! We did not start at 3:30 a.m. - we are not the stand in line kinda people, but we did find some great deals later on during the madness of the day. With that said, I have to get on my soap box for just a moment. I feel like we have created a monster with the Black Friday, find the best Christmas Gift thing. My husband and I were listening to the radio on friday while in route to our next shopping destination when we heard some startling news - a man was trampled at a Wal-Mart during the rush of Black Friday Bargain Hunting, two men got in an argument which ended up in one getting shot - we have created a monster! I was talking with my mom about all of this and told her that my goal is to get back to the true meaning of Christmas! I told her I could care less about the gifts and would not be saddened if we did not exchange gifts at all - all I wanted was for all of my family to be together and enjoy our time together! Enjoy what the Lord has given us - the gift of life and each other. I feel we should begin to take back Christmas and remember the real reason we celebrate all month long - the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus! (Actually something we should celebrate all year long). And remember, is it really worth a human life to get $200 off of a flat screen t.v.? With that said, I pray that you find the real meaning during this month of December and carry it with you all year long! Enjoy time with your family this month and all year long - cherish it because we are not promised tomorrow!

Blessings,

Meagan

Benches, Lighting, and New Best Friends...

2008-11-18T07:24:00.000-08:00

It has been a while since my last post...

We have been so busy at the 504 cottage.
Just thought I would share with you a fabulous little cottage bench (in red of course) that my decorator and new best friend, Molly, emailed me! (She owns a great interior design business, Henderson and Rigoloso - Drapes and Design in Tuscaloosa, AL). It is from overstock.com, which, by the way, is a great website to order fun stuff off of! I just ordered an amazing light fixture from them (I will post that pic also). The greatest thing about overstock.com is that shipping is only $2.95 for anything (even a large piece of furniture! Hope everyone is having a great week!

The Red Bench that I love and will have to convince my husband that it is a necessity for the 504 cottage!

The light fixture that I ordered for my living room!

I will post a pic when it gets hung in the living room.

Blessings,

Meagan

Fun at the dinner table...

2008-11-10T19:14:00.000-08:00

On my quest to find "yummy" place settings and fun plates, I ran across Pier 1 Imports website. I rarely walk through the doors of this store just because there in not one close to where I live. When I found the "Red Bird Plate" in magazine I was reading, I immediately began to search the Pier 1 website for more fabulous finds! I am really into reds (along with yellow's and navy's) so all this red dinnerware was bringing a huge smile to my face! I hope you enjoy!

(This has to be my favorite plate right now, LOVE IT!)

(These may not be your style, but you have to admit...they are fun!)

(To me, This is cottage dinnerware at it's best!)

(This fabulous bowl would make a great, simple centerpiece for any table!)

(And if all these things weren't fun enough, these stemless glasses are fantastic, what a great way to keep up with your glass! These would make great "place cards" also!

I hope you have enjoyed some of my Pier 1 findings. I just might have to wander into a Pier 1 Imports in the near future. Maybe if I am good enough, some of these fabulous items will end up under my Christmas tree (a subtle hint to the husband).

Have a great Veteran's Day - I will sure enjoy my day off from work and will continue to be thankful for the many veterans that have secured my freedoms in this amazing country!

xo, Meagan

Trick-or-Treat...a few days late...

2008-11-07T17:08:00.000-08:00

I know it is a few days late (well a week to be exact), but I wanted to share with you what greeted trick-or-treaters as they walked up to my house. My husband and I love Halloween. We just love pumpkin carving, handing out candy, and especially seeing pint sized trick-or-treaters adorned in their favorite costumes!

Hope you enjoy!

My Husband's fantastic carving skills!

My "favorite place" (my cottage) before the sun set.

After the sun set...

Some close friends of ours brought their precious kiddo's by to visit for a moment and to dip into the candy basket!

Have a great Friday!

xo, Meagan

A love of Chalkboards...

2008-11-06T14:26:00.000-08:00

I know, I know...two posts in one day...somebody stop me!

I just wanted to show everyone one of my "loves."

A while back, I traveled home to visit my family and when I returned my wonderful, loving, handsome husband had made me this. It is in our little "computer nook."

I just love it! I hope you do to! Let me know what your "loves" are...

xo, Meagan

(If you are wondering about the WR Photgraphy at the top of the picture, my husband is a photographer...check him out here.)

Fabulous Thanksgiving Tables

2008-11-06T09:35:00.000-08:00

I recently received my November issue of Country Living in the mail. I was hoping to find some great Thanksgiving table-scapes, but did not run across any in the magazine. So, I set out on an adventure with "Google" to find some and I did! I found some on Country Living.com! Did not even think to check the website when none were in the magazine...
Right now I am loving burlap and hope to use some as part of my table decor. Let me know if you have any great ideas for a fabulous Thanksgiving table!

Enjoy, Meagan

And how about this burlap with these precious tiny dots. I love this as a place card idea!

Love these candles wrapped in the "Give Thanks"

All pictures from Country Living.

Check back...

2008-11-03T07:57:00.001-08:00

Just wanted to update...
It has been a few days since my last post, but check back this afternoon for a new post.
I will have some pictures of my cottage home decorated for trick-or-treaters!
I hope all is having a great Monday, just think we are one day closer to Friday!
Thanks to all who read my silly little blog :)

-Meagan

A collection for a dainty girl...

2008-10-29T18:56:00.000-07:00

Every since I was a little girl, I have had a love for antique aprons. I remember the day like it was yesterday. I was about 9 years old. My dad and I were walking around an antique store, while my mother was inspecting a piece of antique furniture. We passed by a stack of linens. In that stack was a dainty little pink antique apron - as a 9 year old it if was pink, I was sold. My dad bought me my first apron that day and since then I have acquired about 40 antique aprons. All are different in style and color. I just love them! I am trying to think of innovative ways to use them in my cottage home! I have hung some in the guest bedroom, but would like any suggestions on ways to use them in my home! I hope you have a collection you love as much as I love my aprons!

Welcome to My Cottage

2008-10-27T19:56:00.000-07:00

As some of you might already know, my husband and I bought a 1940's cottage home in our small southern town. We love our home and I love the fact that I officially own a cottage! (Or at least it is cottage to me, if you don't think it is...don't burst my bubble!) We also love living in the historic district of our community! Like many who buy older homes, we have an incredibly long list of "to-do's" or more like..."Wes...here is my idea....now you do it!" We have gradually began to work it little by little (trying to pay cash as we go). We have redone the bathroom (our house is only 2 bedrooms, 1 bath) - are working on the kitchen, and working on the outside. We are focusing on the extreme needs first and going from there. For those of you that have "been there done that" I would love your words of wisdom! I am also struggling with what color to paint the house, so any suggestions would be welcomed! I want my house to stand out on our little street, but I don't want people to drive by and think the circus came to town. I am posting a picture of my favorite place (my cottage)...you let me know what you think!

Also just thought I would throw a few pumpkin pictures out there...This is my absolute favorite time of year - these cute little guys sit on my front porch steps!

The air is cooler and I have been able to use my fireplace...I am one happy girl!

Happy Fall!!!

Pumpkin Bread...

2008-10-26T20:18:00.000-07:00

Recently I have been dedicated to making some great pumpkin breads! I love this time of year because you get an excuse to bake all kinds of goodies (and to sample all that you bake!).

I ran across this pumpkin bread recipe courtesy of a church friend.

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon nutmeg

3 cups sugar

31/2 cups plain flour

2 teaspoons soda

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup oil

1 cup pumpkin

1 cup chopped pecans

4 eggs

Mix all ingredients by hand. Grease and flour two loaf pans. Fill each pan half full. Bake in 350 degree oven for one hour. To retain flavor and moisture, place bread in air-tight container as soon as removed from pan. For freezing, wrap loaf immediately in Handi-wrap and then foil.

Just a side note - I made this recipe into muffins for a get together I had at my house. Let me know if you enjoy this bread as much as I do!

Happy Fall!!!

Feeling a little Fun...

2008-10-25T19:28:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would show everyone a few of my obsessions lately. They can change from week to week but this one has been going strong for a couple of months now. I love a great arm chair in a fabric that is unique and crazy. A great arm chair can brighten up any room. Pair it with a neutral sofa and there you have it. I am also in love with roman shades for the moment! Using some great fabric, a roman shade can be a great accent to any room!

Let me know what you think of these...

(Both are found at IKEA!)

And here is some great fabric from IKEA that could be used to make fabulous curtains or roman shades. ( I just love solid stripes!)

Go CHHS!

2008-10-25T09:39:00.001-07:00

Let's give a great big "Great Job" to those Charles Henderson High Trojans!

They defeated Eufalua last night (Friday 10-24) to earn a coveted spot in the playoffs!

Go Trojans!

(Pics Taken by the Famous Wes Roberts of Wes Roberts Photography)

A Photographers Wife

2008-10-24T21:30:00.000-07:00

That's me...The Photographers Wife. My husband owns a photography business (Wes Roberts Photography). Let me just put this out there...for those of you who might think how glamorous and exciting this might be...well it is kinda the opposite. It is the typical "everyone has great pictures except for us" kinda thing. With that said, he is fabulous at what he does! He truly has a God-given talent and is using it to honor Him! We are currently in the process of opening up a studio in downtown Troy, Alabama. We love owning a business is this great small southern town. We have made great connections here and love the fact that many people here are beginning to appreciate creative, quality photography. For those of you that don't know, Wes is not your typical photographer. He has a great love for the photo journalism style of shooting. He loves shooting outdoors with interesting architectural details or an interesting piece of furniture. He does shoot many weddings along with baby, children's and family portraits. (I sure make him sound great don't I?!) And...lets not leave myself out...you can just call me the "Official Wedding Dress Fluffer." Yep, that's what I do...fluff the wedding dress and shoot the occasional pictures or two. Behind every great photographer is well me! You can check out his website here. Obviously, I am very proud of him because he is not afraid to follow his call and his dream!

Here is a small sample of his work...

My First Shot at the blogging world...

2008-10-24T21:18:00.000-07:00

So here is my first shot at this blogging thing. I love reading all my friends blogs so I decided to share with everyone my day to day struggles, obsessions, and current favorites! I will let you in on my life as a special education teacher, the wife of a professional photographer, a home renovator and much more! I know you are already anticipating my next post!
I felt this would be a great way to share my love for funky furniture, fun fabric, old homes, and fabulous cottage style living. Let me know what you think. Leave me comments! So here we go...hold on, take a seat, and enjoy this crazy ride I like to call my life!