We have fun.

And here's how we do it.

Wearing pigtails. Cooking. Reading. Playing in forts. Drinking/throwing tea. Singing. Reading. Dancing. Laughing.

This Kid.

Making things make life better: patterned t-shirt skirt

My friend Mandi finally cashed in her "Can You? Coupon" (Can you sew me a ____?) from last year's ladies night Christmas exchange. She asked for a scrap t-shirt skirt with a soft yoga waistband, similar to these.

And Mrs. Claus said, "yes."

I still have a few adjustments to make, but even still, she did a great job picking out the fabrics and I think she'll look great in it!

I'm gonna be an aunt!! (again!!)

My sister-in-law Chloe is pregnant with her first child and we just found out today that it's going to be a BOY! Chloe and Art, we are so excited for your great news and we're keeping you in prayer always!

The lady that bought our house.

Seriously, you guys. She messaged me on Facebook and has given me permission to share her story. If you don't already have a box of kleenex at your disposal, you might wanna hook that up real quick.

"Jude and Alisha,

Congrats on selling your house...and congrats to me on my very first home! Myself, my family and numerous friends have all been praying along side of you that this house would sell and I would be the buyer. From what I've read, you have this burden on you for 3.5 years and wondered what God was teaching you over this time. I can't exactly say what He had in mind for you but for me He had my timing in mind. I am a 28 year old single, divorced mom of two wonderful kids, Audrey (6) & Logan (4) and a survivor of 5 year domestically violent marriage. My credit was destroyed by my ex and I walked away 2.5 years ago with $100 to my name. I moved from Texas back home to "Normal" to start over. Never did I picture myself in a position to buy a house 2.5 years later. As selfish as it may sound, I am thankful for your struggle. Because of your struggle my kids and I can start a new chapter in our lives, which we are so ever grateful for. I impatiently waited 8 months to get this house. That is nothing in comparison to your 3.5 year wait. What I do know is that "all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose" - Romans 8:28

I thought of your family often as I painted my new house. I could see the pretty blue color you had on the walls (left over behind the electrical face plates)and wondered how excited you guys must be to have this all DONE!!

On Monday Aug 6, 2012 at 12pm, all things did work together for both of our families. Mine started a new chapter and yours finally, after a long wait, closed one. I'm happy for you guys and I wish you all the best!! 

Becky"

God was preparing our home for her and our hearts for Him. Our pain, her pain, united together and offered to Christ at the foot of His Cross brought forth the peace and joy and new life we all share in now. May we never forget the goodness of the Lord.

Making Things Makes Life Better: Robot Limbs

I saw these robot legs floating around the interweb and thought they'd be perfect birthday gifts for the girls' friends Henry & Liza.

By now, you know the drill. I didn't really read the directions or buy the right supplies, but I think they turned out just fine. I even like the way they conform to the leg or arm better than the original design does.

And I just might've convinced Joan to be a robot for Halloween this year instead of the usual obnoxious requests for pink and purple lace satin. Still to be determined...

Also, I would have taken photos of Charlotte wearing the yellow ones, but you know, she's not really a fan of cooperation. c'est la vie.

 The backs just have adjustable velcro. Nothing fancy, but very handy.

Happy Birthday Henry & Liza! Enjoy!

I got nothin'

I feel like I owe you all something.

You know, for holding on with a death grip to our home-selling roller coaster for the past 3.5 years. I mean, surely you deserve a stuffed unicorn or something, right? Or at the very least, a wrap-up post (wherein I vow to never speak of this nightmare ever, ever again) full of spiritual insight and worldly wisdom.

But I got nothin'.

I'm still just shocked that's it all over and instead of being flooded with emotion and overwhelming gratitude, I can only muster a simple, whispered "thank you" at night, because really contemplating the whole thing seems too much for me right now. I'm sure I'll revisit it again and vomit my thoughts (can't wait, huh?) all over this clean, white blog, but for now - I'm just avoiding the topic altogether and leaving you with a safe subject: Guilbeaux Family Vacation.

You're welcome. (And be looking for the unicorn in the mail - should be shipping soon.)

 Cousin Madelyn hated the sand. Until the last day, that is.

 Flying kites. Need to add that to the list.

What's Dora gotten herself into this time?

It really was a great week with family, full of laughter and only one major meltdown (talking about me, here) and we want to thank my parents and siblings for an amazing time.

WE JUST SOLD A HOUSE

YES.

WE JUST SOLD A HOUSE.

I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO.

OR WHY I'M STILLING SCREAMING AT YOU.

SORRY.

BUT WE JUST SOLD A HOUSE.

3 YEARS, 5 MONTHS, AND 25 DAYS LATER.

WE SOLD A HOUSE.

Your thoughts, prayers, tears, encouragements, and sacrifices in our name have not gone unnoticed. God bless you and blessed be His name forever, until the end of time!!!