The Creative Life of Shawn Seay

ramblings

2011-10-11T12:36:00.000-05:00

I'd hoped to do a quick recap of the summer and past few months. My camera was out of order over the summer, and I've not taken the time to figure out how to get my phone pictures uploaded unless emailing them, so you are left with what is on my sd card currently. Okay here is just a few....Maybe I'll stay in the blogging mood awhile and post several more times before I take a few months off again!!!ha!

This is a 192 page sketch book that I will be listing in the etsy shop very soon. The pages are acid free. It is a hard cover.

I can imagine sketching my thoughts here!

This is one of my favorite scores found most recently at True Treasures. It's a humongeous spool of thread!!! Don't you just love using things in other ways than they were intended!

I have gathered up so many nests the last few months! I think I actually found this one in the middle of the road!!!

Goose feathers gathered together and tied with vintage lace. These were picked up at the lake this summer.

I am fascinated by vintage photos.

I don't even know who these people are! But aren't they beautiful?

and more nest! This is probably my favorite one thus far. I have lots more to show if I can spare the time. Just wanted to through a quick post in here.

I'm off to grate some soap....making my own laundry soap! I'll post about that next. Total money saver!!!!

Have a wonderful day friends!!!

Count your many blessings! We've so so much to be thankful for...

It's a great day to be alive;-)

Love,

Shawn

decorating on a dime

2011-05-29T10:20:00.002-05:00

When we moved into this home, the kitchen ceiling was low. It was

even with the tops of these cabinets. The lighting was a huge box

that held long fleurescent bulbs.

Brian tore out the ceiling and, with the help of a friend, put in a taller one.

At the time, we put in 2 generic light fixtures that we picked up at Lowes.

I tried to get you a picture from my phone, but didn't have any luck.

That is one of my blogging goals....to show you more progressive

pictures so that you can see the before and after.

I knew that I wanted chandeliers in here. It's something that not everyone would do, and it would catch attention. I found a gold chandelier at a garage sale for $20 and shortly after that, one of my wonderful neighbors spotted another that I grabbed up for $10.

Whitney, Hannah and I hung them from the trees and took the black

spray paint to them. I love how they look. I think they add lots of

character to our little kitchen and they are just my style.

Big, squishy hugs to you all,

Shawn

rusty buckets

2011-05-27T12:37:00.001-05:00

I love planting in old rusty buckets. It makes me all warm and fuzzy inside.

The last couple of years, I have started planting herbs in containers.

They bring me just as much joy as the flowers do!

I guess one of the beauties of old things is the memories they hold.

My Pa used to root roses in this old crock that sits on an old pot belly stove

base that belonged to Brian's Great Grandfather.

The crock reminds me of how we had a milk cow growing up.

We would take turns churning the milk into butter

in a crock similiar to this one.

Our sweet neighbors know my love of old things,

so they keep an eye out for me. A

couple of the old buckets above were gifts from them.

It seems like we are getting a slow start into summer this year.

It was just 57 degrees yesterday. Seems like it should be scorching hot

already. However, the cooler temperature is nice too.

I love having all of the windows and doors open.

I am really, really hoping to use my time very wisely this summer.

I have already stopped looking at facebook

(a huge time sucker).

I hope to blog more,

and make more art....

(just saying that gets me all jittery inside with joy).

For some reason, I always have all of these expectations that

I don't meet and summer slips through our fingers like sand.

I am trying not to have to many expectations this

time. I just want to do all of

the things that I don't normally get to do....

like taking long walks,

riding bikes,

fishing,

reading together,

or just sitting on the porch and chatting.

Whitney just turned 17 and will be a senior next year.

I hope that we can capture lots of memories

camping, at the lake, and at the river together.

Before we know it she'll be off at college.

I try to block that out of my mind.

I can't hardly grasp that kind of change

right now.

So for now, we will just enjoy loving on each other and being together.

What do you plan to do with your time this summer?

Enjoy this 3 day weekend!

Big, squishy hugs

to you all,

Shawn

why we enjoy snow days

2011-02-09T15:39:00.000-06:00

Sledding

Fun with friends

cozy fires

4 wheelin'

being pulled by big sisters foot

(notice the cast on Whit's nose)

there's nuthin' much sexier than a daddy playing in the floor with his babes

( she's not Bullseye, but better )

hot tub

ditto

playing in the snow with your sister

ditto

shoveling the sidewalk

making a snowman with your sisters

that's alot of snow!

we like to feed the birdies

beauty

not so fun for Shelby, but this is what we've been doing this morning

ditto

so much white stuff

being bundled up

we just cannot get enough

where's the hot cocoa

this is more snow than we have ever seen

lovely

seems like we are feeding most of the birds in the neighborhood

fun with our 4 legged pals

playdough lunch

what more does a teenager need:

cell phone and food

I have not taken the time to blog lately because....it is basketball

season. Hannah plays 8th and 9th grade ball on Monday and Thursday nights. Whitney plays varsity on Tuesday and Friday nights.

Wednesday nights we host a bible study in our home. Shelby is a first grader, so that means lots of studies for her with the help of Mommy and Daddy. During the day, on school days, I keep 4 extra little ones whose Mommies are teachers. With a family of 6... we are very busy right now.

However, this season is almost over, and we will sigh and say that we have made it through with smiles on our faces.....mostly. Whitney has had stitches (a tooth went through just under her bottom lip). She took an elbow. During another game, two weeks later, she took another elbow which broke her nose.......nose surgery. She is doing fine, but playing with a mask now:-( .I am so very proud of all 4 of our girls. Whitney and Hannah put in lots of hours playing basketball. Whit is already being pursued for the next level. I'm a proud Mamma no matter what. I hope that this makes them out to be hard workers in the real world.

So those are my excuses and I'm stickin' too it:-) I have missed blogging. Funny how I think about things often that I would like to post.

I've been creating new things on these locked in snow days in hopes of listing several in the Etsy shop soon.

I hope you are making the most of the cold!

We'll be barefooted before we know it!

Shawn

Baby Photography

2010-10-18T12:40:00.001-05:00

I was given the honor of taking pictures of a precious baby.
I ran out of time, so there will be more to come.

This is so dang fun!

What did we ever do before digital photography?

Isn't she just a doll?
I am still mesmerized by the miracle of birth.
Our four blessings birth are the best moments that I have ever lived.
I am hoping to get some more pictures of this precious girl
before she grows too much.
I am thinking in a dresser drawer....
in a suitcase....
with her Momma and Daddies rings on her little toes....

any suggestions????

Have a wonderful day, friends!
Our littles are out of school for the day,
so I am loving life:-)

Big, squishy hugs to you all!!!

XO
Shawn

Pumpkins and Fall

2010-10-12T12:33:00.001-05:00

Do you buy pumpkins?

Last year we grew our own pumpkins.

It was so exciting.

We didn't grow really big ones.

It was fun to try out different recipes with them,

and to put them all around the house.

I had planned to grow larger ones this year,

but we ended up being gone entirely to much

this summer....no pumpkins.

I wanted white pumpkins.

I do not have much extra time to search for white pumpkins,

so we just picked these up.

This is all of the fall decorating that I do.

I do not get into the halloween thing, much. We

usually do carve some larger pumpkins as a family

and roast the seeds....I'll share those pictures

when that fun rolls around.

How about you?

Do you decorate for fall?

I had my first pumpkin pie latte of the season friday night.

I love the spicy scents and flavors of fall.

My sweet hubby brought my home

a pumpkin spice muffin this morning from

Panera. I have been craving one, but, didn't want

to spend the cash. I was hoping to make some soon.

Yum!

How do you enjoy fall?

Count your blessings, friends.

Shawn

Saturday Morning Loot

2010-10-11T09:33:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday, friends!

Just a very quick post to say hello and I hope that you

had a glorious weekend.

I haven't gone out searching for junk very much this season.

I have been trying to keep my focus on

more important things.

However, I always have the urge to go out

when time permits. That's a picture of most of

the things that I brought home on Saturday morning.

I cut it short so that we could make a trip to the

park. This weather is SO fine!!! Fall and spring time are my

favorites. I love to live with the windows open, and we

prefer to be outdoors as much as possible.

I am super excited about the black dominoes

that are in the metal bandage holder. They

are the old small style and will make awesome charms!

I had the pleasure of taking some photos of a beautiful baby

this weekend. I had so much fun doing it. Someone saw them

on facebook and asked how much I'd charge to

take photos of their baby. Wow! What a feel good feeling:)

One of my prayers is that I can use my passions

to glorify God. Art is therapy, don't you think?

I love making things.

It feels so good when I create something.

Maybe I could inspire others to create.

Who knows...

Don't know where I'll end up with this one, but,

just thought that I would share that thought with you.

Maybe you can give me some input....

Have a beautiful day!!!

Big, squishy hugs to you!!!!

{and when I say that, I am refering to how it feels when your Grandma or Aunt gives you a

big ole squishy hug that makes you feel really loved:) }

Shawn

Homecoming Dance/ Dinner 2010

2010-10-05T10:44:00.002-05:00

What do Mama's of little girls do

when they start to be...not so little anymore?

Keep lovin' em and havin' fun

Saturday was Whitney's homecoming dance.

Instead of going to dinner, she asked me to host

an outdoor dinner.

Of course, I was tickled to do so.....

However, I had to cancel my weekend trip

to Canton, Texas with my Mom:(

I hope my children know how much I love them.

Even more so, I hope that they appreciate what

they have and what is done for them.

This is one of my passions.

Decorating.....

but not like everyone else decorates.

The china that you see in these pictures has 22K gold on it.

I picked it up in a box at a garage sale for $5.00.

The silverware is either found the same way or rescued from my Mom's garage:)

In fact....almost everything has been rescued from a garage sale....

the chairs, the old lace table cloths with holes in them...ahhhh.

the old oil bucket with flowers inside was passed down.

the silver cupcake tier was a score for .50 cents!

The candle holder above was

a piece off of an old light fixture.

The jars were rescued from an old barn.

Daddy and I made the table (if you haven't heard)

I think the girls had a fun time.

Even though it was a bit on the chilly side.

Those are Whit's shoes that you see above.

$90 shoes found on sale for $10 at Belk's.

such fun.

Friends,

If you have little ones....

I sure hope that you pray for them.

I have been praying for the girls and their friends and

their future spouses since they were in the cradle.

You can't pray enough. That's for sure.

Who would have ever thought that I'd be the proud

Mama of such beautiful girls......(tears)

I started the event by washing these and I ended the event by washing these! Ha!

I just thought it was pretty in the soap bubbles:)

Count your many blessings, friends.

Thank God for the trials that he is allowing you to go through.

It is making you stronger and molding you into what you are becoming.

Big, squishy hugs to all of you!!!

Shawn

Heart-warming Gifts

2010-10-04T09:20:00.000-05:00

As we grow older we learn how much fun it is to give gifts.

It is still fun to recieve them. But, not as much as when you were a kid.

I am one of those that get's excited when

the UPS truck stops out front. And when I get unexpected gifts where all of the

thought has been put into the details.....

then I remember what it was like to be a child on Christmas morning.

This is the box that the gift came in. DETAIL.....

Even the box is stamped to look vintage....sigh.

Each individual item was wrapped with brown paper bags

from Trader Joe's (we do not have those here).

....gasp....and do you see how they have a handmade tag attatched?

drool....

Don't you love it when someone knows you so well?!

German book, old keys, look at that frame with the old siverware!!!!!, stamps, stickers.....

a junk vintage, junkin girls dream gifts:)

skeleton keys for

fan pulls, jewelry adornments, curtain tie backs, gift accesories....

the possibilities are endless!!!!!

Thank you precious friend!

I miss you and your next door neighbor inspiration.

I am thankful we can still inspire each other miles away!

Big, squishy hugs to you all!

Shawn

An Outting With Cousins

2010-10-01T10:40:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago the girls and I made a trip to Texas.

Mom and I decided it would be fun to go to the Arbuckle wilderness in Oklahoma,

since she had never been.

We didn't take the littlest cousins.

We wanted the trip to be fun for us adults, too. And too many

little ones all at once may have been a bit strenuous:)

It is so fun to watch them all play when they are together, though.

Just imagine....9 girls all together....

can't imagine there not being lots of laughter and

squealing and giggles and fun!!!!!

The battery died on my camera before we were all done.

I borrowed my Mom's at the end of the excursion and I'm not

sure if I have those pictures here saved yet.

I think we all had a great time.

We were exhausted by the time we arrived back home.

But, we were still smiling:)

That smart camel stole the cup!!!!

....more than once!!!

I have tons of pictures of the animals.

But, it's more fun to see the little's isn't it?

I daydream about what they will think when

they look back at photo's of these days.

I pray that it is all fond memories!!

So sweet and innocent...

haha.....did you here her say that?

Yes, our children are well behaved....sometimes:)

I told them to stick out their tongues.

It isn't everyday that you are welcomed to do that!

Lovin' on Nonny

Chattin' with Nonny....in her lap....love that one.

Mother and Son

Cousins

Lovebirds.

Thanks for allowing me to share my family with you today.

Count you blessings.

Big, squishy hugs to you!

Shawn

Daddy Time

2010-09-30T12:55:00.000-05:00

The first time our girls wanted to go ride the lawn mower with Daddy.....I threw a fit. I said that it was dangerous...blah....blab....blah. Well, once again, I lost that battle.

Since I lost on that one, I thought, well his legs are long and they are probably pretty safe....

and they love, love, love going round and round the yard with him.

But, this is what usually happens with Ella if she hasn't had a nap yet....

Almost every time.

Isn't that just precious. Of course it's Mommy to the rescue by then:)

A Sneak Peak of Our Home

2010-09-17T10:20:00.000-05:00

Hello Dear Ones. Just got a wild hair this morning due to my friend that now lives 11 hours away. She use to be right next door:( We continue to inspire each other by texting pictures back and forth. She told me that I must blog these. So here I am!

A chalkboard made from an old painting.

I made these fabulous velvet flowers this summer. I was SO excited when I came across the fabric at my Mom's. I new exactly what it was meant to be!

Our dinner table. The flowers are in milk bottles that are in, of course, an old milk bottle crate.

The book that you see wrapped in lace was given to me by my sweet friend before she moved. She wrote a precious letter on the outside of the brown envelope that you see on top. The letter begins....Dear Sweet Vintage Junk Friend. The brown envelope holds an autograph book that has been filled with signatures and notes from the 1800's. It was such a fitting gift because the person that the autograph book belonged to long ago was moving away, just as my good friend. It is filled with many farewell's and goodbye's. The larger book in the middle is an antique photo album that she and I found at a sale. I thought it was so amazing when she found it.....and she saved it for me as part of the going away gift. The most special gift I have ever recieved from someone.

The book on top is an old old children's book missing it's cover. It was a purchase from my favorite inspiring shop in Eureka Springs...Something Simple. She covered the outside in cute papers. She has been in Somerset magazine on several occasions and she does the most amazing halloween displays. I'm not even a fan of halloween.

I love to use an old tattered fork to display a note or photo.

My china hutch doesn't hold china.

These were worn by all 4 of our girls.

My most treasured posession....a bible from the 1800's.

Atop these suitcases is a bowl of scrabble pieces. Also spelled out is blessed.

Our house was built in the 1970's. This is a built in vanity in the master bedroom. I hang lots of my jewelry on these old rakes. Most of the jewelry comes from garage sales, some I make. I love vintage finds.

A bedside table.

I loveth old books...

Inside this dome sits a real birds nest and pieces of robin eggs that I have gathered here and there.

We purchased this ladder in New Mexico on a skii trip with my Mom and Dad several years ago. We had to go buy straps to strap it on top of the vehicle. I remember the old indian man that we purchased it from saying something about it being a symbol of climbing to heaven.

memories...

A wreath made from tulle and old book pages. I created this while traveling this summer.

I love to find old silverware that is severely tarnished.

And this is my fireplace. Anxious for fall! An old quilt is on the hearth for sitting. Pumpkin spice scents abound.

Obviously alot has happened since I was on here last...it has been awhile. God is doing some pretty amazing work in our lives right now. My cup overfloweth. I pray that you all are doing fine and living life to it's fullest.

Big Squishy Hugs to you!

Love,

Shawn

Change is Good

2010-07-26T12:34:00.000-05:00

Hello Dear Friends!!!! Where do I begin? I have been missing in blog land for sometime now. I have considered not continuing the blog...

(to blog or not to blog)

I call the computer the "Time Sucker" in our home. It tends to suck you in and cause you to lose precious time that cannot be replaced. However, I tend to always be blogging in the back of my mind. SO as to say....I daydream about what I want to be saying on here.

There is no rhyme or reason here...and I have decided that, that is okay. Maybe someday I will focus on just one thing. Then again, that's what life is like isn't it?

God, family, decorating the home, traveling, loving on family.....

Although, our first focus should always be to our Heavenly Father.

I am still learning to draw closer to him. It's amazing the peace I find when I can stop struggling and just turn it all over to Him.

I find that each day goes much smoother when I begin the day by spending time in prayer and learning God's Word.

We have had an extra busy summer!!!

I am thankful.

Although, I yearn to slow it down a notch.

Those of you who continue to check out my blog occasionally....Thank You!!

Your comments are like a warm hug!

Whitney and Hannah have been super busy with basketball this summer.

Whitney is hoping for a basketball scholarship.

So far her hard work has paid off. She loves

playing ball...

and has kept us super busy with doing just that.

Hannah is just starting out this year with the school team.

I pray that you are having a fabulous summer.

Are you eating too much barbecue and enjoying the sunshine as much as us?

We have are enjoying the river,

the lake,

and the ocean to keep us cool!

And of course the love of family.

I haven't done as much crafting this summer as I had hoped for.

I look forward to sharing a few pictures with you of recent projects.

Until then...

Blessings and Big squishy hugs to you!

Shawn

Before and After

2010-06-01T22:18:00.001-05:00

This pretty lady was a love gift from my fabulous neighbor.

She bought this gal for the frame.

I spotted her and wanted the picture!!

I wasn't to crazy about the wording...

nothing a little mod podge and an old dictionary won't fix.

And some black paint for her new/old frame!

So, what do you think?

I've got to get some hangars attatched to the back of the frame.

I hope that everyone enjoyed the long weekend.

Our kiddos are still in school because of snow days:(

The long weekend gave us a good tease of what is too come.

Enjoy the sunshine

and

Count your Many Blessings!!!

Big squishy hugs,

Shawn

Happy Monday

2010-05-24T10:58:00.000-05:00

I hope that you all had a wonderful weekend. I just want to share this link with you to some cancer fighting foods. Since the passing of my Daddy to cancer last year, and so many many others with the disease, I have tried to take on a healthier way of eating for my family. I have so much more to learn. I try to keep fresh fruit and vegetables stocked in the fridge for my family and I love finding new healthy recipes. Thank you to those of you who post those recipes on your blogs.

We spent our weekend camping! R-E-L-A-X-A-T-I-O-N I look forward to sharing some pictures with you!

Have a beautiful day!
Cherish every moment!
XO
Shawn

We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that one drop.
-Mother Teresa

Little Shoes

2010-05-20T14:01:00.001-05:00

The little ones found a snail climbing on the window.

What a cute moment.

They were extremely excited!

I miss those days...when the little things

were SO EXCITING!

In a couple of weeks these little shoes will be replaced.

The little ones (except for my Ella's whose flip flops do not match)

will be home with thier Mommies,

and my school age children will be home.

I plan to do lot's of things...

exercise...

lot's of walks...

fill up the etsy shop...

put lot's of cute things in the flea market booth..

camp...

read lot's of children's books...

snuggle...

just hang out and do nothing...

ahhh...shall I go on....

I hope to cherish every moment I have!

They are outgrowing their little shoes, as well,

and I do not want to miss a thing!

Have a blessed day, friend.

Shawn

A Heart for Africa

2010-05-19T14:12:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite meals as a child was beans and cornbread.

I still love the way the house smells when I have a pot of beans on

the stove for several hours during the day.

Maybe it takes me back to my childhood, but I

really feel like it makes a house feel cozy.

It is still one of my favorite meals, for sure.

Dry beans are one of the most inexpensive staples that you could

feed your family. They offer lots of healthy benefits.

I can hardly imagine not being able to afford

beans to feed my family.

If you read a few blogs, like I do, you may find yourself on

different journeys at times.

A couple of weeks back I was at Lola B's,

then I ended up at Just Us,

which took me to the Journey.

That found me purchasing Tshirts from 147 Million Orphans for me

and the girls.

Then I ordered some of these Ugandan magazine beads.

Before I gave these to the girls I had them sit and read Katie's blog.

I plan to order more to keep on hand for birthday gifts.

I think they are beautiful, although my picture doesn't quite show

their true beauty. And, what more of a beautiful gift than to be able

to help feed a hungry child....

that doesn't even have beans to eat.

I encourage you to visit Katie's blog. Maybe it will touch your heart

like it has mine. If you read her post from Thursday, February 11th, you will find a

beautiful tearjerking testimony.

May you feel God's loving arms around you today!

Big, squishy hugs,

Shawn

the first picture was borrowed from the pioneer woman who has some fabulous bean recipes!

Treasure

2010-05-18T15:01:00.000-05:00

Hello, Friends!!!

I promised to show you some of my recent treasure....
so here goes....

I thrive on being different.

I love it when people come to my home and take a triple look because things are so....

out of the ordinary.

I pray to God frequently that he will make me different.

I don't want to be trendy and about money and fashion.

I love to find bargains!

I really love to find freebies!!!

Yep!

Road side finds are the best.

I hope to use these watch pieces for jewelry,

but, aren't they beautiful in an old silver dish?!

The above chalk board was a $6.00 purchase from the Salvation Army....

I painted chalkboard paint right over the canvas painting.

This old typewriter was a gift from a friend!

These kinds of gifts are awesome!

The above sketch of Marlyn was purchased from a guy in

Hollywood for $5.00. He was sitting on the sidewalk drawing

her. The drawing is on a piece of trash poster. Love it!

The bottom thing...salvation army...just looked neat.

This old cash register was a gift from another neighbor.

He picked it up for me at a garage sale for 50 CENTS!!!!!

I have been collecting old cabinet doors.

They make awesome chalk boards.

My friend Sandy and I were allowed to

take items from a local house that her church

was tearing down.... That is my kinda

F-U-N!!!

This would be my pantry door.

More chalk board paint.

I cannot get enough of chalkboards and more importantly positive words.

The frame on this one was gold. I gave it a paint job and once again...

painted right over the canvas.

Well....

I was going to include a couple of pictures of

my art closet...

but it seems that I have provided you with

lots to look at..

So, I will just save that for another post.

I am eagerly awaiting summer break.

My garage is filling with road side finds that

are waiting for a new coat of paint.

If I have not left a comment on your blogs lately...

please know that I am still trying to read...

I am just not taking the time to comment,

as often.

I feel like I have made friends in the blogging world!!!

I haven't seen your faces, but I sure look forward

to reading your post...

and comments.

Count your blessings, Friends!!!!

Big Squishy Hugs to you all!!!

Shawn

So Much To Say

2010-04-28T22:12:00.001-05:00

It has been so long since I have blogged that I have a ton of things that I want to show you. But, where do I begin??? I will save the projects and finds for another day....so that you will have something to look forward to (wink) =) We took the camper out a couple of weekends ago. I am constantly in awe that I get to live in a state with such breathtaking views...I could not be thankful enough. These pictures do not even give you a taste of how gorgeous it is here.

These are just some of the things that we saw on this trip.

You would not believe the rocks these things climb!

Yes, that is my daughter;)

And there she goes again!!

And now should we talk about how my baby is growing up :(

Whitney attended her first prom last weekend.

Okay so the pictures are out of order...nothing new.

Yes my kiddos have grown since you have seen them last!

Yep, laughter is still the best medicine!

Whitney looked beautiful.

We are having so much fun in the warmer weather.

I can hardly wait to show you some of the new items I have picked up lately.

I am finishing up some last minute orders for Mother's day gifts.

I will try to post pictures of some of those things as well.

Until next time....

Count your many blessings;)

Big Squishy hugs to ya!

Shawn

2010-04-13T11:27:00.000-05:00

Spring has sprung!!!!! I have been trying to spend more time doing the important stuff and less time blogging. Our family is doing great. We are getting the camper ready to put into lots of use!!! Whitney has added a traveling basketball team to our list of to do's....I just thought that I was busy. Hannah has just finished track and is trying out for the 8th grade basketball team. The little ones are doing great. Shelby just pulled a top front tooth. She is doing good in Kindergarten. She and Ella come in at the end of the evenings looking like little piggy's this time of year....I don't know how the dirt even gets all over their precious faces. We love the outdoors. Brian lost his sweet Grandmother last week. She is in a much better place...rejoicing with the angels. I can only imagine that his Grandpa is very lonely now without his longtime friend. Brian is going to try to do more activities with him to help keep him busy. I know that you all are enjoying this wonderful weather. Happy Spring, friends!!! Big fat squishy hugs to you all!!!!!

This is the beginning of a new day. You have been given this day to use as you will. You can waste it or use it for good. What you do today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it. When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever; in it's place is something that you have left behind...let it be something good.
-author unknown

Count your blessings friends.
XO
Shawn

Praise Him

2010-02-02T10:40:00.001-06:00

Psalm 148

Praise the LORD.

Praise the LORD from the heavens, praise him in the heights above.

Praise him, all his angels, praise him, all his heavenly hosts.

Praise him, sun and moon, praise him, all you shining stars.

Praise him, you highest heavens and you waters above the skies.

Let them praise the name of the LORD, for he commanded and they were created.

He set them in place forever and ever; he gave a decree that will never pass away.

Praise the LORD from the earth, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths, lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds that do his bidding, you mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars, wild animals and all cattle, small creatures and flying birds, kings of the earth and all nations, you princes and all rulers on earth, young men and maidens, old men and children.

Let them praise the name of the LORD, for his name alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and the heavens. He has raised up for his people a horn, the praise of all his saints, of Israel, the people close to his heart

Praise the LORD

Blessings, Dear Friends!!!

Shawn

Recent Finds

2010-01-21T11:41:00.006-06:00

My Sweet Hubby took me on a weekend trip away just before Christmas and I scored this swing coat
at a fabulous 4 story antique shop with a basement. Let me tell you that I was SO excited because I first of all did not have a nice winter coat. And, second, I made myself a goal.

The goal was to find a coat that I adored AND a pair of boots

and to not buy them at retail price...AKA garage sale, thrift store...that's my cup of tea;-)

During the week of snow days that we enjoyed, my friend Sandy and

I, made an impromptu getaway to the Salvation Army.

And SCORE...

Momma's got a new pair of shoes.

Vintage flair.... Creamy....Dreamy...

I am a Texan...ya know.

Well, I hope that everyone is enjoying themselves.

We have had weather in the 60's here. Feels like spring.

I have been thinking about why I enjoy other people's blogs.

What is most appealing is honesty.

I really, really, really want to be REAL.

all of the time. Does that make sense?

That could be a whole post in itself. But, I want everyone that

knows me to know the real me. I want to be genuine. I don't want to

be afraid to admit that I am struggling.

When we are open about our faults and failures, it makes us

vulnerable. It also makes others feel like we are human too.

I don't ever want someone to think that I am

houghty toughty....I am no better than the next person.

Well, a few things about myself that you probably don't know,

unless your reading this and you are family.

--First of all, I am still learning to Love God. Please do not take that wrong.

I love him. But, not enough. Not as much as he wants me to love him.

I was asking Whitney and Hannah recently what they thought about Love.

They laughed at me jokingly. I asked them how they liked to be loved.

Love is an action verb isn't it? So, if my husband gave me as much love

as I give God would I be happy with that?

That is something to ponder and something that I am struggling with.

--I have been blessed with a wonderful Mother and Father Inlaw.
I am so thankful for them. They love the Lord and they
are so very precious to us.

--I lived in a trailor house until I was 12 years old.

--I remember putting jars and pots under several holes when it would rain, to catch the

water, where the roof would leak. I didn't even think it was a big deal.

--My Mom and Dad owned property in Nacogdoches, TX.

--They grew our vegetables.

--They grew our chicken, beef, and pork.

--We drank milk straight from a cow and goats.

--My Mom made my clothes.

(today they call that boutique style)

--My Daddy worked as both pastor of a church and as a carpenter.

--My Mom kept care of us kids and sewed.

--Some of my fondest memories are being barefoot and fishing, or

playing in the creek.

--I don't have fond memories of amusement parks....in fact that is something I

do not even enjoy taking my kids to do. I prefer camping, the beach, the river,

the lake...we can create memories TOGETHER there.

--I am VERY proud of my past and I am scared of my kids not being more grateful

for the lives that they have. I want them to have a heart of appreciation no matter

what the circumstances.

--I take pride in my work and the things that I do. I try to enjoy life to it's fullest

every day.

--I have always thought that I have a really close family. But, I guess life

sometimes throws that for a loop. One of the biggest hurts in my life is acceptance by

my sister in laws. I love them and pray for their families. I know that God would

not allow me to undergo this trial without a plan.

--I am SO very proud of our girls.

Words cannot even tell you how proud I am of them.

I struggle with parenting, though. You don't want to be to strict...they

will rebel....to lenient, they will take loose!

I know that prayer is the most effective tool ever. I pray for their future husbands.

And I still don't even pray enough.

--I wasn't close to my Daddy until recent years. I really miss our talks.
I feel like he is still back home in Gainesville and I just haven't gone to see
him in a long time. I miss him so very much. I want to make him proud.

--Well, this pot is something else you didn't know about.
I dug it up under the barn last summer.

--We live in town on just less than an acre. The barn holds 4 wheelers, and yard equipment.

Anywho... Mom and I were at my favorite place
found in Prairie Grove, AR, Daisies and Olives. You must make a stop if you love a good flea market, and are ever in the area. While chatting at the store I saw a corn cookie jar on the counter just like pictured

above...and found out that it is a collectors item....
worth up to $400!!!!!
Isn't that exciting for something I dug up? It is called Shawnee#66.
This dresser is one that I hope is still available when I return to Daisies and Olives.
Don't you just love her curves?

Well, this has turned out to be a rather long post...but you hopefully know a wee more about me

than you did before.

I look forward to sharing more with you.

I hope you find all kinds of blessings in your day!

Big squishy hugs!

Shawn

Thank you for allowing me to vent.

2010-01-14T16:36:00.001-06:00

Ugh! Is this a sign, or what?!

Seriously.

I have been trying to list one item on Etsy

for the last hour and half and it all

was deleted and sent me back to the beginning

times. Ugh! I should have stopped the first time.

Anywho....

Hope ya'll are having a fabulous day!

This is what I was attempting to list.

The photo is my grandparents, so that makes

it just that much more wonderful too me!

The verse is 1Corinthians 13:4-7

Love is Patient, Love is Kind. It does not

envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude,

it is not self seeking,it is not easily angered, it keeps no record

of wrongs. Love does not delight

in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects,

always trusts, always hopes,

always perseveres. Love never fails.

Maybe I will try again tomorrow.

Lots of Squishy Hugs!!

Shawn

She's Crafty

2010-01-13T13:53:00.001-06:00

Our snow is melting.

And we are anxious for some warmth.

I dream of planting the garden and digging my hands into the

dirt. I long for the windows to be open.......
children to run in and out without

having be told to leave your boots at the door...

wear a heavy jacket....

come in and warm up up awhile.....
more carefree.

I am doing a very good job of keeping my chin up, so far.

I have stayed up until the wee hours of the morning

twice, cleaning closets. Boy does it feel good. One of those was my

craft closet, the other was the toy closet which is large enough that it

gets some of the craft overflow. I emptied all of the baskets and bins of toys

and went through them all. Whew! Relief.

Now I can breath.

My newest excitement is making these charms!

That one above is of my Grandmother.

I cannot begin to describe the feeling I get when I create.

I need lots more practice on the soldering, so if anyone

is schooled in this area, feel free to pass on the advice to moi.

Hannah made this No Sew scarf while out of

school during the snow.

I hope she gets as much satisfaction out of

creating as I do.

Since I am blessed to keep teachers children during the

week, I am too busy to keep up with an Etsy shop, it seems.

It just sits there longing for me to list items...sort of like ebay.

I do have good intentions.

I am hoping to start a flea market booth.

They are to expensive here in our town. I have been

searching out of town for something cheaper. I have also

considered doing the spring craft show. I have not done

that in a few years...and it was so much fun when I did

it before. I do not know where my path leads but, I know

that God has a plan. I am just waiting to for it to reveal itself.

For the Lord your God will bless

you in all your harvest and all the work

of your hands, and your joy will be complete.

Deuteronomy 16:15

Have a blessed day!

Shawn

Meet My New Friend

2010-01-05T14:38:00.005-06:00

Meet Pearl. My friend, Sandy, texted me with her picture back in October.

She was $30, but she thought she could probably bring

her to me for $25.

I scrambled to contact her impromptu...

as I was at a craft show.

Thankfully she was able to go back to the garage sale and find her still available.

Woo Hoo for me!

...As I have been wanting a dress form

for a very long time.

Did I happen to mention that she was mauve

when she came here.

m-a-u-v-e

I took care of that asap.

I love the way she looks a bit dingy now.

She is sporting some of my newest creations.

It's crazy how much a girl can

get done when she is snowed in!

I did , however,

sneak out....

today.

with my precious friend.

NO...not Pearl. ha

But, Sandy and I went to the Salvation Army.

I am so giddy to tell you of my bargain....

but I will save it for next time!

I hope that you girls are making

happy memories!

Blessings,

Shawn

Sing Me a Hymn

2010-01-05T12:56:00.003-06:00

First of all I got this wonderful inspiration from Jeanne at a Bushel and a Peck.

I am humbling myself and telling you...

I do not know how to do the Mr. Linky.

I guess I need to do some reading up on that.

This is one of the things that was

done during the turning off of the electronics

the last few days;-)

I love sheet music.

This is pages from a vintage hymnal.

And VOILA!

It was a fun adventure.

Thanks for sharing the idea, Jeanne!

Guess what...they are still out of school.

It looks like the kiddo's may get a whole week home for snow.

Fancy that.

It has been perfect.

Blessings,

Shawn

1,2,3,4

2010-01-05T12:25:00.003-06:00

5,6,7,8...bet you can't find Shelby. Ha. Don't you just love a good game of hide and seek. Indoors of course, since we are still snowed in!

The schools will probably be open tomorrow:-(

We have played a few board games

Made several crafts

Memories mostly.

I forced the electronics off for

a few days.

It really is a joy to see the

kids using their imaginations and playing.

I have really enjoyed making some things.

Hearing the girls read poetry...even sarcastically at times. ha

It really has not been as bad

as Whit would tell you;-)

I want them to know how wonderful

and fullfilling it is to be creative.

Blessings,

Shawn

Hot Cocoa Dreams Come True

2010-01-04T12:32:00.004-06:00

This kiss was given through glass....

We are snowed in.

The kids were supposed to return to school today but we are snowed in.

WooHoo!!!

I love it!

The hubby is home so the kiddos are lovin' it!

He is the driver........ of course.

This is not ours.

No.

We are too busy taking pictures and being pulled by a 4 wheeler to do this stuff.

Whitney in the front and her best friend, Demi.

Ella Grace warming up.

Shelby Elizabeth in front and cousin Emily in back. Oh what fun!!!

Hannah Marie and Shelby Elizabeth heading down the hill.

I am hoping to blog more this year.....along with 500 other things....well meaningful things

of course......

Things like....smiling more,

reading more childrens books...aloud,

being even more creative,

spending less money,

finding more joy in the little things,

going for more walks,

holdings hands....more,

well....my list is pretty long. I will stop there for now. But, so far I am not doing a very good

job on the eating less. My Mom has been here for 2 weeks and for some reason we like to eat

comfort food when we are together. Does anyone else do that? Sigh....

Welcome 2010!!!! We are loving the snow and enjoying more days at home together!

To God be the Glory

2009-12-08T23:10:00.000-06:00

To God be the Glory great things he has done...so loved he the world that he gave us his son......you know that hymn...right? Well, that just happens to be what is going through my head at the moment. So, I figured why not go ahead and type it on out for all to see....my thoughts. I have so many things to be thankful for. I get so excited when I take the time to count all of God's blessings....you'd think I would do it more often, huh? It is so easy sometimes to get caught up in keeping track of the negative things going on in life.

I painted our pantry with chalkboard paint recently and Hannah left me this sweet message yesterday morning. It says, I love you Mom Hope you have a good day! Muah, Hannah....That warms my heart. I love love love notes. I like to put them in the kids lunch boxes occasionally.....usually on a napkin. I really need to surprise them with notes of love and encouragement more often. Something so simple and easy can mean so very much.

You can even find fun in eggs! Ha! Hannah and I took this picture of her eggs this morning because it looks like a face! There is a bubble between the 2 yolks which looked like a nose.

This was after Thanksgiving. Our beautiful babies, and my Mom making gingerbread cookies. Actually, Mom made them all (Shelby and Ella helped with the cookie cutters, of course) and we are all decorating them. You actually cannot see my Aunt who is in front of me while taking this picture. She was participating in the fun as well.......the odd thing is she is blind, but she still found joy in spending time with family decorating a cookie that she couldn't even see.

Mom and I talked about how neat it would have been to have all of the nieces lined up at the table partaking in the fun. (I have 6 nieces and only one nephew, which is on Brian's side) I love spending time with family....creating memories. I think that the girls will cherish memories like this in their hearts forever.

My sweet Grandpa passed away last week and Hannah and I drove 8 hours to Pampa, Texas for the funeral this past weekend. It was a bittersweet weekend. With my Dad passing in May and now his Dad passing away, I have seen family members that I have not seen in years. I have met little cousins that I have never seen before. It was nice seeing relatives. But, sad because of the circumstances that we were gathered for. My family means so very much to me. I want to put forth more of an effort to make sure that even my cousins that i do not see but only at funerals know that I love them and care about them. This also reminds me of our church womens Christmas party last night. What a blessing. I am so glad that I had friends outside of our church join me for a blessing. To put it simply we were challenged to celebrate Christmas all year long. Paying it forward and sharing Christ love with others, even if it just means offering a smile. After all, a little note can make my day who knows how much it may mean to someone else!
visit www.iget2give.org to share your story.

Hannah and I listened to Joel Osteen's audio book Become a Better You while we were driving this weekend. I would encourage anyone to read it. It was very inspiring and I am going to have Whitney read it, as well. Hannah is only 12 and it was easy for her to understand and learn from.

Count your blessings friends! And be a blessings to someone else :-)
XO,
Shawn

My New Take On White

2009-11-22T13:43:00.002-06:00

So many of you ladies have almost all white homes. I love looking at the photos. I, however, have lots of color. In the room that I am sharing with you today we play....allot. I keep 4 teachers children during the day and this is where we spend bunches of our time. There is a huge closet that stores the toys. We painted this room dark brown. It actually works for us. I love how the white pops in here. The above photo is an old door rescued by a friend, I distressed it even more this weekend to reveal a fabulous green paint underneath. The chair is a $20 garage sale find. The pillow is one that we have had for awhile that I recently stenciled to go with the white theme. The wreath is a $.50 garage sale find.

This is my favorite Christmas tree this year. Decorated with rolled up sheet music that I poured coffee on to distress, old baby shoes some from sales and some of my own babies, glass door knobs, black and white photos, a candlestick, tea cups, handmade paper flowers, handmade gift tags...distressed of course, vintage clip on earrings, necklaces, vintage lace and ribbon.......notice on the baby shoes shown above I cut a piece of vintage paper and lined the inside. All four of our girls have worn that pair of shoes.

We sold our fuseball table because it was a dust collector, and I wanted the room to be more cozy. I moved in this china hutch that was a gift from my Mother and Father inlaw. The lady at the flea market new that I had my eye on it and what a surprise when they brought it home to me. I have it filled with vintage finds.....of course.

That is an old lace tablecloth underneath the tree. The white chair was a $5 garage sale find. The desk $15 and the chair at the desk $8. I love the reuse recycle mindset. I wish that I had known how to do this years ago when I was first on my own. I hope that my children carry this mindset with them so they can have a cozy home without accumulating debt......Wait till you see the FREE tree in the living room. Have a wonderful day everyone.

Blessings,
Shawn

November 7, 1951

2009-11-07T13:31:00.003-06:00

God's Helpers

"God could not be in every place
With loving hands to help erase
The teardrops from each baby's face,
And so He thought of mother.

He could not send us here alone
And leave us to a fate unknown;
Without providing for His own,
The outstretched arms of mother.

God could not watch us night and day
And kneel beside our crib to pray,
Or kiss our little aches away;
And so He sent us mother.

And when our childhood days began,
He simply could not take command.
That's why He placed our tiny hand
Securely into mother's.

The days of youth slipped quickly by,
Life's sun rose higher in the sky.
Full grown were we, yet ever nigh
To love us still, was mother.

And when life's span of years shall end,
I know that God will gladly send,
To welcome home her child again,
That ever-faithful mother.
--George W. Wiseman"

Happy Birthday, Mom!
I love you, so much!
Thank you for everything..
For sticking with Dad
through the good and the bad.
For doing the same for me.
I have learned so much from you.
Thanks for teaching me to be a
good Mom, and more importantly
a Godly Mom and Wife.
I have learned from your strengths,
and grown from your weaknesses.
You are a wonderful Mother and Nonny!
I am so proud of you!

Her children arise and call her blessed. Proverbs 31

I love you so much,
Shawn

My Testimony

2009-10-21T12:58:00.002-05:00

At the young age of 9 I walked down the isle of a little southern Baptist church and prayed the sinner’s prayer. I was baptized. A few years later, I decided that I would do it again, because I didn’t feel like the previous time “had worked”. Time and time again I sat in church and prayed the sinner’s prayer asking God to save me from hell.

My Daddy was a preacher. So, I was raised in church. The pressure that I put on myself was that was that I should know the Bible. I should know how to live. This was all my own pride. I learned early in life to live 2 lives. By this I mean that I went to church on Sunday. I taught a few children’s classes. I made friends at church. I pretended to be someone that I was not. When I was back in my own element I was a different person. I was having sex outside of marriage. I was drinking. I was getting myself into debt. I even went through a divorce. Surely you know that this list could go on and on and on. For years I have felt guilt. I have been tired of trying to hide one life from the other. I knew all along that we cannot hide from God. I would talk with others, like me, and we would decide that what we were doing was not wrong. We would twist the truth and make it feel okay to keep on sinning.

I do know that it has been many factors that have gotten me to where I am. I lost my Daddy in May of 2009. Trying to do things on my own has not worked out. Sermon after sermon I have tried to apply things to my life. But, I still wanted to do it my way. One sermon before Easter when we were challenged to spend a certain amount of time each day in quiet time with God and reading scripture has challenged me.

Another occurrence that God used to touch my heart was when some friends had come over for drinks. Whitney had a church friend coming by and I mentioned to her that they could not come in because there would be drinking going on. She said to me,” Mom, you really should not do things that you do not want everyone to know about.” While this was maybe was just a passing comment. It really made me stop and realize that I was not making the right decisions in my home and my life overall.

I finally decided to put my pride behind me and fully submit myself to Christ at the age of 35. I cannot begin to tell you in words what a relief it has been to be able to be transparent. I now have peace.

Sin separates us from God. If sin didn’t feel good and we did not enjoy it, then we would not do it. We are all sinners. God calls us to live holy lives.

I have been a big mess up in the past. I still am not perfect. I am, however, giving all of myself to God to mold me and make me into the person that he would have me to be. I am forgiven.
We can only grow in Christ through daily time spent reading the word, memorizing scripture, and prayer. Ephesians 6:10-20 tells us that these are our armor. This is our strength. I encourage you to read it for yourself.

My story is like so many of yours......playing church....or maybe not even attending church. My prayer for you is that you will fully submit every piece of yourself and your life to God. We are all sinners. The penalty for sin is death. Christ paid that penalty for us. We must repent of our sin and accept Christ by Faith. Confess him as Lord. Give him all of yourself. Don’t hold on to the sin that you love. Does that sin have a positive effect on you, your children, your family? I doubt it.

If every Christian were just like You, what kind of World would this be?

2009-10-08T10:56:00.006-05:00

I haven't posted in several days, because when I have a few minutes I am trying to list things on my Esy shop. http://shawnseay.etsy.com/ I will be adding new items often.

I thought that I would leave you with this. I recieved this email from my brother, so it may have been passed around already. It is the first time I have seen it though, and thought it was very touching.

LIVING BIBLE
　
　
His name is Bill. He has wild hair, wears a T-shirt with holes in it, jeans, and no shoes. This was literally his wardrobe for his entire four years of college.
He is brilliant. Kind of profound and very, very bright… He became a Christian while attending college.
Across the street from the campus is a well-dressed, very conservative church. They want to develop a ministry to the students but not sure how to go about it.
One day Bill decides to go there. He walks in with no shoes, jeans, hit T-shirt, and wild hair. The service has already started and Bill starts down the aisle looking for a seat.
The church is completely packed and he can't find a seat. By now, people are really looking a bit uncomfortable, but no one says anything.
Bill gets closer and closer and closer to the pulpit, and when he realizes there are no seats, he just squats down right on the carpet.
By now the people are really uptight, and the tension in the air is thick.
About this time, the minister realizes that from way at the back of the church, a deacon is slowly making his way toward Bill. Now, the deacon is in his eighties, has silver-gray hair, and a three-piece suit. He is godly man, very elegant, very dignified, and very courtly. He walks with a cane and, as he starts walking toward this boy, everyone is saying to themselves that you can't blame him for what he's going to do.
How can you expect a man of his age and his background to understand some college kid on the floor? It takes a long time for the man to reach the boy.
The church is utterly silent except for the clicking of the man's cane. All eyes are focused on him. You can't even hear anyone breathing. The minister can't even preach the sermon until the deacon does what he has to do.
And now they see this elderly man drop his cane on the floor. With great difficulty, he lowers himself and sits down next to Bill and worships with him so he won't be alone.
Everyone chokes up with emotion. When the minister gains control, he says, 'what I'm about to preach, you will never remember. What you have just seen, you will never forget.' 'Be careful how you live. You may be the only Bible some people will ever read!'

Have a blessed day!! If you are in this area, find the beauty in the rain!
XO
Shawn

Happy Weekend

2009-09-25T22:39:00.000-05:00

Tonite's view of the fireplace!

Creative Projects and Memorable Moments

2009-09-23T10:50:00.009-05:00

We had a great weekend. Here is a picture of Shelby at the parade Saturday morning...digging into the candy as it was thrown ;-) I made bows for the little ones before we ran out the door.

I had to pry Whit out of bed with a crow bar to get her to tag along. Hopefully she was happy to have joined us after she was up. Below is three of our girls and a neighbor watching the parade. Hannah was at a friends house. As I was thinking about Trash to Treasure, I started to think about my life. I have never fully surrendered EVERYTHING to the Lord, until recently. It is a constant struggle. I am continually reminding myself to give it all over to the Lord...every itsy bitsy piece of me. I find more peace in my life daily. Thank Goodness that God doesn't give up on us. He loves us no matter what we have been through. His love never faileth.

Well, back to the photo above I picked up the frame at a garage sale for about 50 cents...and painted it red. I took a coffee bean burlap sack and quilt batting and ended up with a place to display treasures waiting to be used in the craft closet.

This is the back of an old platter. I painted it with chalkboard paint and put it on an iron stand. It sits next to the sink, in the kitchen.

These windows were saved from a recent renovation down the street. I have several ideas fluttering around up top waiting to be put to use.

My friend Sandy and I made an impromptu trip this past weekend to True Treasure. I came home with this. Antique letter press letters.....I spelled out blessed..

Love and also Seay (our last name)....I bet we spent at least 45 minutes digging through a big box of these letters. The owner of the shop greeted us with wet wipes for our hands...as we had ink all over :-O

This shelf was picked up off the side of the road recently as the girls and I were running late for an appointment. You should have heard them, "OH MOM!". One day they will thank me. I think they will appreciate saving a buck and getting a bargain as they get older. The freebee's from the road side are my favorite! The baskets on top were also rescued from the roadside the next day, but a neighbor snagged them for me!! SO thoughtful!!

Okay, I do not have time to sit and try to REorganize all of these photos. Here sits Ella Grace trying to gather candy in her little hands, at the parade. I guess I need more blogging practice!

Parades remind me of when towns were more family oriented and you knew everyone. Friday night high school football has the same effect! Although, our facility is HUGE, it still creates warm memories.

This is a recent sewing project....Peace, Love, Tigers!!! I intend to use a cross instead of a paw print for Peace, Faith, Love....hoping to post some of these on Etsy soon.

This one was a birthday gift for a friend and teacher.

We went to the game this past friday night. Shelby is showing off her spirit!!!

The girls are showing off their paw prints. These are made to fray around the edges and turned out really cute after they were washed.

I hope that you all had a great weekend! I would love to take the kids apple picking. If anyone local knows of a location close by...please fill me in!

Have a Blessed Day.

Shawn

Mark 10:28-31
28Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee.
29And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's,
30But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.
31But many that are first shall be last; and the last first.

Siesta

2009-09-16T13:35:00.008-05:00

I bought the Love Dare shortly after watching Fireproof.

I highly recommend this movie, if you have not seen it.

I am only on my second day of the Love Dare,

but looking forward to the days ahead.

I am also very excited to have started this Womens fall bible study last night....

Twisting the Truth by Andy Stanley. I wish Brian and the

older girls were attending this one! So far it is very

eye opening. At the same time as the 6 week bible study, our pastor

is doing a series on The Adversary.

You can go to http://www.gracepointchurch.net/downloads.html to

hear sundays sermon...The Devil Wears Prada.

I love this about bedtime.

The pitter patter of little feet will not always be heard underfoot. :-(

I try to soak up every memory possible.

It is so easy to get busy and let the little things go uncherished.

And this is what happens when

Ella Grace thinks that she should skip nap time...

So sweet.

Have a blessed day!!!

Shawn

Train up a child in the way he should go

and in the end

he will not depart from it.

Proverbs 22:6

WORMS..in the house

2009-09-14T14:39:00.006-05:00

So, I thought that Ella was grabbing her drink from the fridge. Ummm....I was on the phone with my brother. We call that multitasking these days, right? Anyway, she was doing THIS!!!! What can a mother do but laugh...and take pictures!

I bet there are not alot of people who can pull worms from their fridge. But, you can at the Seay house! Only because we like to fish. That's normal right? Ha.

Well, Ella thought it was fun. My kids are the ones who are out looking for small critters when we go camping or to the river. Oh!!! DO not even try to deny it Whit! ;-)

All things bright and beautiful, All creatures, great and small,

All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all.

Yes, soap was used and quite a bit of scrubbing after this was all cleaned up!

Blessings,

Shawn

I should probably add that this is in the utility room fridge,

not the kitchen....not that it really makes any difference.

..just sayin' (wink)

And you shall love the Lord your God

with all your heart

and with all your soul

and with all your might.

Deuteronomy 6:5

Happy Tuesday

2009-09-14T11:20:00.008-05:00

Welcome fall! We are just outdoorsie people (if that is even a word)! I love that the weather is perfect for being outside. Well, today it is raining, but we welcome that too. An occasional rainy day means we can stay in and play memory or color!! Yes, I am surrounded by little ones:-)

Above is oregano and a pumpkin from the garden. This is the first year I've grown oregano and other herbs and it has been fun. I just step out and cut a few sprigs occasionally to add to the skillet!

This is where we spend lots of our time. I have shown you pictures of our back porch before....and you are surely to see it again. We drink coffee here, visit with our friends...we come out here when we have visitors instead of going to the living area, the girls do homework, we play monopoly, paint our toes, the list goes on. Now that it is cooling off we can sit out here and make a fire....and drink hot chocolate!! Even more fun;-)

Tune me, O Lord,

into one harmony

With thee, one full responsive

vibrant chord;

Unto thy praise,

all love and melody,

Tune me, O lord.

-Christina Georgina Rossetti

Have a glorious day!!!

Blessings,

Shawn ;-)

Photo Gallery

2009-09-14T09:32:00.005-05:00

I originally started this blog so that I could show items that I am making and working on to sell. Below is a chandelier that I purchased recently and am taking all of the wiring out. Do you see candlelight in it's future? I do. Below is an iron post that is used to hold up a porch. I love to find new ways to use old stuff and when I came across this item I knew it would make a perfect trellis. As you can see the morning glories have made their way to the top!

This is a picture taken last weekend at the Crescent hotel in Eureka Springs. We made a mad dash after church and lunch and really enjoyed ourselves.

These photos are so out of order! These are paper flowers that I made this weekend. I borrowed the idea from another blogger....Stars Fault.

Hannah at the Crescent.

A lovely bed and breakfast. We called for pricing and saved the number for future reference. (sigh) Couldn't you imagine waking up here? Ah! What a perfect place for a romantic weekend.

My Mom and Hannah Banana!

This was taken at the top of the Crescent hotel. I love how you can see the statue way in the distance. If you are not from the area....the statue is called Christ of the Ozarks. It is a ginormous monumental statue of Jesus that stands over 67 feet tall.

Mom, Hannah and Ella Grace

My sweet family smiling outside of a quilt shop.....I hope they were smiling on the inside ;-) They were so sweet to all come along to Eureka for the sake of Mom and I...They really would have rather been at the river.

Mom, Ella Grace and Shelby....love this one.

Our precious girls.

Thanks for viewing my photo gallery...er blog post.

We really are enjoying the crisp air lately. Things are cooling of somewhat and I can see autumn in the distance. I hear fires crackling and smell comfort food ...don't you?

Have a beautiful, blessed day!!!

The world is blessed most by those who do things, and not by those who merely talk about them.

-James Oliver

this and that

2009-09-09T11:22:00.010-05:00

Veggies from the garden.

Am abundance of squash!!

Huge okra!

Hannah cringing while getting her ears pierced.

Shelby being a big girl while getting her ears pierced.

More veggies!

Snaggle Tooth

Well, I have not kept up with blogging much, however, I love to read others daily post. I do

not know how you keep up with it! Here is a few brief things that have happened

lately....Shelby started kindergarten and lost 2 teeth (swallowed the first one). She said it like

this, "Mom I bit the apple and it made my tooth fall out and my mouth was so slippery that

my tooth went down in my tummy! I didn't swallow it." So precious!! Shelby and Hannah

both got their ears pierced! Hannah started Junior High. Ella had a birthday in August.

Whitney has been playing basketball all summer and is

still at it. She started her sophomore year of high school. We had a fabulous garden this year.

Seems like we want it to be bigger every year. My Mom came to visit for the 3 day weekend

and we enjoyed her every minute. We want her to move here with us SOoooooo bad. But,

we also know that God has a plan. While Mom was here we made a trip to Eureka

Springs...first stop was my FAVORITE store, Something Simple. If you are ever in Eureka

you have to go. (it is not on the main strip) After we walked out, I told Mom we could go

right back in and I would pretend that I had not even gone yet. I love to just stand and take it

all in. Kaylene has a special way of making everything interesting. I came home super

inspired! All in all, we continue to be blessed. God is good.

Happy Summer

2009-07-25T03:25:00.002-05:00

Well, all pictures ;-( I know. We are having a wonderful summer and I am so sorry that I have' nt posted in such awhile. I have posted a few pictures of what's been going on here. Shelby and Hannah had a birthday in June. We have gone to the beach....and so much more. Hope you are loving your summer!!!

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A Father's Love

2009-06-08T22:32:00.002-05:00

I have 6 followers to this little blog. And one of those dear people, my Daddy, went to walk with Jesus on Sunday, May 24th at about 8:45pm. I just want to say thank you to anyone who may read my blog and has prayed for him and/or our family. Daddy was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer about 6 months ago. Things still seam surreal to me. My Mom is here with us, and I keep thinking that Daddy is calling when her phone will ring. I know that when things settle down, and Mom is back at home, reality will set in. I always look forward to talking to Daddy about the garden, or the river, or the preachers sermon....lots of other stuff. I miss him so much already. However, I know that he is much better off now...We are the ones that are suffering, here on earth. I know that God has a plan in taking Daddy home. I don't know that plan. But, I know that it could only be for good. On the day that Daddy passed we sat on his bed and held his hands and talked to him. I told him that he was a good Daddy and that he was smart and brave and strong. I will never forget that he said that I had always been special to him. Daddy was a very Godly, humble, smart man. He fixed almost everything himself. He was a carpenter, a computer geek, a preacher, he loved the outdoors, and spending time with us, but he didn't say a whole lot. In recent years, especially the last 6 months I have talked to him almost every single day and looked forward to hearing his voice and recieving his advice. But, that is the first time I can recall him really saying something like that. He would talk about us in the pulpit, of course, but he did not praise us much in person. I am so thankful that I was there with him and that I was able to hear those words that I will hold dear to my heart the rest of my life on this earth.

Just a Swingin'

2009-05-13T12:22:00.003-05:00

Don't you just love a good bargain?

Well, I get all excited about stuff like that.

Especially in times like these.

This bargain is fun......

Brian tied a rope to a tall branch last weekend.

He drilled a hole in a board.

And there you have it....

lots of fun......

for a bargain.

Even our neighborly friends came over for a swing!!

Since Brian has hung the swing,

the girls want to go out and swing when he

gets home from work.

Being so tall, he can push them high.

They don't even care if it is dark.

Such great memories!!!

All from a rope and a board.

No electronic devices required.

Blessings to you my friends,

Shawn

It is not how much we have,

but how much we enjoy,

that makes happiness.

Charles Spurgeon

Party

2009-05-10T14:08:00.002-05:00

Whitney's 15th birthday party was lot's of fun!!!

The girls played a variety of games...

a potatoe sack race, three legged race,

buggle gum blowing contest, and lot's more...

As you can see, they got messy.

Instead of gifts, Whit asked the girls to bring

donations to the local women's center.

The three girls who brought the most donations

threw a pie in Whitney's face!!!

They had so much fun!!

I am so thankful for this group of girls.

Whitney has such good friends!!

I remember my Mother's prayers.

and they have always followed me.

They have clung to me

all my life.

Abraham Lincoln

Mom

2009-05-09T14:24:00.002-05:00

Her children rise up and call her blessed.

Proverbs 31:28

Happy 15th Whitney!!

2009-05-08T13:39:00.002-05:00

Happy 15th birthday Dear Whitney!!!

As you know we are planning

your party for this afternoon,

so I will post more later

and show lots of fun pictures.

I am so proud of you.

As I have said many times,

You are turning into a fine young lady.

You bring joy to my heart.

Happy Birthday, Babe!!!

I Love You, Mom.

2009-05-08T13:20:00.003-05:00

Happy Mother's Dad, Mom!

Thanks for being there for me

all these years.

I hope that you know how much

you are appreciated.

I am so thankful to have been

raised in a Godly home.

Thank you for lots of home

cooked meals.

Thank you for clean laundry

and ironing.

Thank you for love and support,

and for loving

my 4 precious girls.

You are a splendid Nonni.

They love you dearly.

Thank you for

calling me almost every day,

if I don't call you.

Thank you for teaching me to sew.

I think I got alot of my creativity from you.

Thanks for taking good care of Casey, Corey,

Me and Daddy all of these years.

I love you so much!

I pray that you have a wonderful

Mother's Day,

and that you know how much

I love and honor you!

Love,

Shawn

Little Birdies

2009-05-05T14:44:00.006-05:00

Welcome Home

He will cover you

with his feathers,

and under his wings

you will find refuge.

Psalm 91:4

This is what I was welcomed by,

when arriving home from a trip

to visit with my Daddy

in Texas.

See up there on top of the wreath?

How perfect!!! Right in the middle

of the top of the wreath.

It's almost as if it were a welcome home gift

from God, of course.

And upon our arrival home from Texas

this past weekend....

3 Baby birds....exactly 2 weeks later.

Life is so beautiful.

What beautiful gifts God gives us

each and every day.

I'm so happy the mother bird

is still there.

The girls cannot help but look out the

front door at her,

every moment that I'm not watching.

Blessings,

Shawn

Beautiful Girls

2009-05-05T08:35:00.003-05:00

I was so excited when I walked around the corner to the end

of the house today and saw the flowers on this bush have bloomed.

It smells heavenly!! I have no idea what it is called.

Brian's Mom tells me that her Great Aunt, or some loved one

gave it to her. That makes it even more special.

SO ...I grabbed a couple of hats and called Hannah and Ella to

come let me take their pictures!!

Shelby was sleeping, and Whitney was at a ball game.

Hannah was dressed and ready to go to dance.

No worries, I assured her. We can crop that outfit right out of the picture!!!

Hopefully someone can tell me what kind of bush this is.

Happy spring to you!!!

Happy 90th Birthday to my precious Grandpa!

2009-04-16T22:41:00.002-05:00

I have been in Texas with my sweet Daddy for a week. Please continue to keep him in your prayers. He has some internal bleeding. He has alot of fluid build-up in his abdomen, which causes discomfort. His skin is tight and swollen like a pregnant lady. He will not be cared for by the physicians any longer. He is now at home under the care of home hospice. It's all up to the Lord. He has pain pills on hand, however, he is using prayer instead. He says that is working. Thank you, Jesus.

Since I'm away from my own computer, I don't have a picture to share with you. However, today is my Grandpa Hollis' 90th birthday. I wish I could share a picture from his younger days. He was so handsome, and still is. I have vivid memories of his stories. I hope that they will stick with me for many, many years. I love his sense of humor. He hasn't lost that. One of his therapist, after doing some exercises with him, asked for his John Hancock. When she got back to the desk with her paperwork she noticed in the area where Grandpa was supposed to sign his name that he had put the words JOHN HANCOCK. I got a good laugh from that one. She, however had to go back and get his signature!! hee hee! He was here to visit this past weekend, but did not have much to say. He is suffering from dementia and has gotten quiet. He is currently in an assisted living facility with my Grandma. However, they are moving him in the next week to a nursing home. I pray that he will be well cared for and will not be depressed to be separated from Grandma. After 64 years together how could you imagine anything else? He always liked long hair. He would sit and brush my hair for me when I was young. I love him dearly. Grandpa was a hard worker. My Daddy got that from him. He built the house that my Daddy and Aunts were raised in himself. The same house that Grandma and Grandpa lived in until they had to move to assisted living a coupld of years ago. He worked on his own vehicles, and fixed things himself. He loves his family. He and Grandma have 3 children (My Daddy and 2 Aunts). They have 8 Grandchildren, and 15 Great-Grandchildren.....Lots of Love. Grandpa, I love you very much. Here's to more birthday's!!!

2009-04-03T09:56:00.000-05:00

A Friend Loveth at All Times.

2009-04-03T09:02:00.002-05:00

"A Friend is someone who knows all about you and loves you anyway!!!"

Last Friday, March 27th was my BF Aimee's birthday. I was thinking last night about the friend's I have, and have had. I didn't even meet Aimee until about 8 years ago. And still, she is the best friend I have ever had in my life. I'm not sure why God waited so long to send her to me, but I am very thankful. I am so blessed to have her in my life. Even with her in San Antonio and I here in Arkansas, I'd hate to imagine not having her in my life. I talk to her almost everyday. She has never ever judged me or made me feel lesser about myself. She is always quick to lift me up. She is honest, in a kind way of course, in telling me if I am wrong about a situation. She gives fabulous advice, because she is truthful, and sometimes has a much needed different point of view. She is a loyal friend, mother, and wife. She is the only person in this world that I can be totally and completely honest with. Oh wow, is she ever a good listener. Sometimes I think I go on and on.........and she just keeps listening. I wonder if she will tire of my stories and troubles. I am so thankful that she has not. Our lives have changed over the years. Just the other day we were chatting about planting gardens and laughing at how we would not have imagined ourselves doing this a few years ago. She cares about my family, including my parents, brothers and their families and ask about them often. She has a very sweet Mom, called Nonnie just like my Mom. There are very many things about us that are similiar. Maybe that's why we hit it off so good from the start. I think that God gave her to me, though. I know that everyone doesn't have the opportunity to have a friend as close as she is to me. She is outgoing and loving to everyone around her. She never meets a stranger. Just last week, we were on our way to Port Aransas for a family vacation, she put us all up for the night. Now let me be clear. Not just my family of 6! Both of my brothers, their wives, and all 5 of their children! She had planned on Mom and Dad, as well. Now that's friendship:) She has a kind and generous heart.

Aimee, I just want you to know that I am so thankful for you and your family. I love you very much.

2009-04-01T12:40:00.002-05:00

http://escapefromthedarksideofnowhere.blogspot.com

I have been a bad blogger. Please forgive me. I have been devoting my time to the children during the day and have totally put blogging on the back burner. We just had a fantastic spring break with my family at the coast. Now we are giddy for the spring weather and planting season!!

I would like to thank everyone for their prayers for my Dad. That being said PLEASE follow the link above to his blog. His most recent update gives specific prayer request. Thank you again. Hopefully I will be able to give you a better post in days to come. Hugs....XOXO Shawn

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Hollis Family Vacation

2009-03-29T20:18:00.000-05:00

Proud Momma

2009-02-15T13:57:00.004-06:00

Josey napping.....

Whitney went to the colors day dance last night, on Valentines day. She and two friends spent hours (sigh) getting ready. I cannot believe how beautiful she has become, inside and out. I tell her often how proud that I am of her. I hope that she understands how serious I am. I want my girls to be everything they want to be, and not have any regrets. I pray daily for the four of them, that they will have God fearing (gasp)....husbands. I pray that they will make Godly decisions every day of their life, so as not to look back and say...Gee, I wish I'd not done that, or wish I'd done a better job at that. I know that God answers prayer, I see it every day.
I am not a photographer, but oh how I wish I could take some courses in photography. So.. I take lots of pictures, hoping that out of the many I take I will get some good ones! I loved peeking in on the girls yesterday, watching them laugh and have a great time fixing each other up. I am so thankful that they were here. My heart ached for the Mom's who were at home while their girls were here getting ready. I wouldn't miss these moments for anything!!!

I am so proud to be your Mom, Whitney!! You are a wonderful big Sissy to your 3 sisters, and a loyal christian friend. I love your laughter and I already cringe at the thought of you going to college. You are a good student and such a good helper. You make your mother very, very proud. I miss you when you are away with your friends. You are very loving and understanding. I look forward to all of the events to come as you continue to grow into a more mature young lady. I love you so much! Mom

1 1/2 '' and still falling

2009-01-28T10:10:00.000-06:00

Winter Wonderland

2009-01-28T08:23:00.005-06:00

I borrowed this title from my Dad. That's what he called Alaska. I'm sure ours isn't that beautiful!! The schools let out early on Monday, today is Wednesday and the children are still home. I love these days!! Unexpected fun. However, there are lots of families without power, so keep them in your prayers. We were without power for several hours yesterday. Our wonderful neighbors who have a 4 wheel drive came over and took me to buy firewood (Brian was at work), and we all cozied up around the fireplace. We slipped in a game of dominoes and made fun of the situation at hand. The neighbor kids piled blankets up and played games. It was like camping as the sun went down and we were walking around by candle light. Sometimes you forget how peaceful it can be without television, computers, and etc in the background. This makes me anxious for spring camping weather. Brian made it home from Missouri safely, just in time to hop on the 4 wheelers. Of course I was concerned, because there are branches breaking all around us. You can stand outside and hear them in the distance. This means power lines are falling, as well. He said the roads are like driving on ice covered dirt roads. I'll take his word for it. He's at Wal-mart again today. As I looked out the windows at 1 am this morning, it was very clear as the moonlight reflected on the snow. How amazingly beautiful that is. I know the kids will be rearing to hit the sleds any moment now. I'll have the hot chocolate and camera waiting!! Hugs to you all!!! May you find God's blessing in the moments that seem like trials.

Before I posted this I ran outside with the ruler and measured over a half inch of ice on the branches. It is still gently snowing. Such a beautiful sight.

2009-01-24T16:27:00.006-06:00

I haven't blogged much lately so thought I'd show you some pics of my "treasures". This is old glass jars and such atop the kitchen cabinets.

I saw this fabulous idea in a magazine, and wanted to try it. I found some hat hangars at True Treasures today, so now you get to see my before.

And after. It's fabulous to me. Who knows where the collection of hats will end up next!!!

These awesome lotion dispensers were a steal today at True Treasures!!! And they go perfect in the girls bathroom. I didn't even pay $3.oo for them both!!!

My brother bought me this wine rack awhile back when we were at a flea market together. I painted it red and it holds my rolling pins and one antique fire extinguisher.

An old rake holds a couple of tea cups and a saucer.

Old typewriter, and picture of Whit and Hannah, and an old platter that was Brian's Great Grandfather's

Found this cute little boy today at True Treasures for $6.50. SO CUTE!

$6.50 at True Treasures. I think she's beautiful!!!

An old dresser mirror that I hung on the wall with some other stuff.

Not familiar with the Biltmore Hotel but I found a couple of chairs and covered them in leapard print and for $5.00 each I think they are gorgeous!!! Garage sale.

Scrabble pieces from True Treasures!!! How fun!! Hannah and I picked out all of our names!!!

This suitcase stand is from the Biltmore Hotel as well. Found also at the same Garage Sale. I heart suitcases!!!

Old wire basket filled with lots of baseballs we have picked up at garage sales.

My napkin holder.....scale.

Magazine holder $5.00 garage sale.

$5.00 for the whole stack. I almost ran when I found these cause I didn't want the lady to change her mind!!!

$1.50 garage sale. THis is in Whit and Hannah's room. A friend of ours had this picture in his bathroom and I always thought it was so cute and romantic.

Momma was ready for her own time out last night!! So she went to her room and pouted. That's right!!! I did it. SO this morning I thought doing some grocery shopping alone might help. Well, I still needed something more... Since we've moved to Bentonville I have SOooo truly missed the antique shops and flea markets right down the street in Prairie Grove. Little did I know that there was one waiting for me just a few miles away. SO... Hannah and I went to "True Treasures" for a little outing while Ella was napping and Shelby was playing next door. I wish I had taken pictures while there:( But, at least you got to see the items that I found while there. Now I know where to go when I need a little inspiration!!!! God Bless You ALL!!!!!

Let it snow!!! Let it snow!!! Let it snow!!!

2009-01-15T16:09:00.003-06:00

I love it when school is called off for a snow day. It's even better if Brian has the day off as well. Our friend Tim is in town from Illinois, so Brian had a 4 wheeler partner. My part is to cook the Chili and make the hot chocolate!! I'd go play, also, but I was inside with Cash today. That's alright by me, though. The fire is mighty toasty!!! I wish we had more days like this. I'm not really fond of the dreary winters, however, I love it when the family is home having fun together! We didn't even have allot of snow, today. But, it was enough....