New Job

About two months ago, I quit my full-time job at Grand Canyon University to become a stay-at-home mama. Since Brooks was just 6 weeks old, I have always had to work as well as take classes for my master's degree. It was so hard watching him grow up and not being able to be there for the growing up process. I missed so many milestones that I would have loved to be there for, because I was slaving a way at a job that I had no passion for. Being a working mom was a huge trial for Tyler and I and we both knew that the right decision for us as a family was for me to quit my job, even though it meant that we were taking a huge leap of faith financially.

Now, after some time has passed and I have settled into my new role, I can honestly say that it is one of the best decisions I have ever made. I didn't know I could love Brooks more than I already did, but being with him 24/7, being able to do mundane things with him and for him, has truly strengthened that love. I love him and Tyler so much and feel so blessed that my sweet husband has given me the opportunity to be a stay-at-home mom. Here is what we have been up to lately....

During Halloween time we bought this "Spooky Gingerbread House" but never used it, so one boring day we busted it out and had ourselves a grand ole time!

Brooks picked out this cowboy hat at Gymboree a few months back and always wants to wear it. When I was in first grade I bought two pairs of cowboy boots (sparkly black and tassled white) with Christmas money from my grandparents and wore them literally every single day. I like to think Brooks's cowboy style comes from his mama.

This is a very, very, sleepy Brooks, just barely up from his nap dragging around his two favorite toys, his big and little sock monkeys! He loves these little guys so much and can hardly sleep without them.
Since I became a SAHM, I have had plenty of time to learn how to cook. On one particular night, I planned a fondue date for Tyler and I! We have a special love for the Melting Pot and go there on every special occasion, so this was an extra delicious treat. I made a delicious cheese fondue for dinner, and followed up with yummy chocolate fondue and all the fixins!

Tootin' my own horn.

Yesterday Brooks and Tyler were taking a little nappy nap, so I hopped on the ole blog and decided to type out an "Ode to Janey" if you will, about all the great things I have been doing lately. Right, and when I say "right" I mean RIGHT as I was about to finish and post the dang thing, B man woke up from his sweet dreams covered in vinegar smelling rhea. So I saved my clever little post, wiped the boy's bottom and scooted my little booty right back to the computer to post my newest adventures. Alas, it was gone. GONE GONE GONE. So folks, instead of hearing lots of wit and charm accompanying the pics of my travels from crapalicious cook to Martha-in-training, you're just going to get pictures. Enjoy : )

Okay I know this is like the worst picture ever but helloooooo who needs to dress up homemade cinnamon rolls?
Also a terrible pic, but check out this little cutie banner I made for turkey day, it says "Thankful" and is made from scrapbook paper, and twine. I had all the supplies on hand so it was free to make. It was so easy, I still was able to devote my full attentions to Real Housewives of Atlanta while completing it, which is always a must.

I handmade all the fabric then stitched it into the gnome costume for Brooks. I even pulled apart cotton straight from the farmland to make the beard. Aren't I amazing? Jkkkkk. I totally bought the costume at Targ, but I DID make the child AND gave birth to him (exactly a year and a half ago today, I might add).

My latest obsession is m.e.t.a.l.l.i.c.s. Ohmyyummm. So, to go along with this obsesh, I spray painted two of these little beautes in a chevron stripe-ish pattern to go over our nightstands in the master bedroom. Pretty simple, but I loverly them.

Last, but not least are a couple pillows! I am currently working on all new pillows for our sectional, but only have these two little guys done for now.

I have a ton of new crafts and creations to share, but those will have to be saved for another day.

back on track

Officially, I have been the worst blogger ever in the past, but watch out folks thats all about to change. There is so much happening with the Bowyer fam that I'd be just plain silly not to bloggity blog about it. So, here's the deal...I am going to give this blogging thing one last try and if I still suck in a month, I'll throw my dang white flag up and surrender my blog. Deal? K great.

Now that we have that little problemo out of the way, its on to the fun stuff! Quick familia update...Brooks is doing wonderfully, if I don't say so myself! He's 4 days shy of 18 months and is an absolute dream boat. He is so smart and funny, and full of personality. Tyler and I love him to pieces and can't get enough of his chubby little cheeks! My dear Ty is doing well too, he stays super busy with school and being el presidente of ASU's College Republicans. As for the Queen Bee of the Bowyer house, I have been cooking, cleaning and crafting up a storm! I have dozens of pictures of my new domestic skills to come that I can't wait to share. All in all, we as a family are simplifying our lives and trying to get back to basics. It's a lovely life we lead and I can't wait to start sharing it with my many, many, many blog readers. ( yup, and by many I mean my 3 faithful followers)