designnarrative

The F-Bomb (no, not that one)

December 9, 2011 by designnarrative

Lately my work life has been a bit much. I moonlight as psychologist while dreaming of my passion for my babies and design. The new evaluation system for educators is back-breaking and disheartening for everyone.

Today I counseled an amazing, gifted teacher to please reconsider leaving the field. This lady inspires, encourages, enlightens. She is who you pray your children will have in their life. She wants to walk away. Me, too.

I did all but twirl fire for my evaluation. It was fine. Fine is not my heart. Fine is not the hours and soul I, and most all educators, pour into our jobs. Fine is a Four letter “F” word. So take that Race to the top. When the going gets tough, the tough gets crafty.

I made gifts tonight for A and G’s teachers. They are just little happy Friday gifts but I hope they convey that I deeply appreciate them. Sparkling cider, fun peppermint glass, and a Christmas ornament. Everything is better with polka dots and a calling card.

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Lego Land

December 4, 2011 by designnarrative

Graham has become facinated with legos

New look for my library table

All motorcycles should have flame exhaust

This is “Kolby Jaun Koe-noby” otherwise known as Obi Wan to the rest of the world.

Love this boy

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Most Wonderful Time of Year

November 29, 2011 by designnarrative

It’s been a very busy, wonderful time. Above is my newest nephew, Nolan Robert Harris. He’s a keeper.

Kacee and Matt (along with my parents) have been quite industrious as they have a newborn and a grand opening of the Christmas tree farm.

These are the Sycamore trees the farm is named for.

Joey showed quite the nack for wreath making.

This is a Scotch Pine decorated with all natural materials.

Classic White Pine in Red, White, and Blue.

Norway Spruce in gingerbread. Frasier Furs up to 12 feet are available as well.

My Christmas mantle with garland I made at the farm.

I kept the mantle simple this year. I hope that will be my mantra for 2012.

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Pinterest Power

October 14, 2011 by designnarrative

True confession time: I spend WAY too much time on pinterest. It’s almost an addiction. I justify it by saying it inspires me and reminds me that there is much beauty in the world. It feels good to do something with all that inspiration: I redid my fall mantle yesterday.

We made this family tree with handprints after seeing a similar one on pinterest.

It’s messy, wild, and has my babies handprints- love it!

Fall Indian corn arrangement via Aunt Suzan and Sycamore Springs Farm.

Candy Corn hurricane glasses via pinterest. Need wider candles but just used what I had.

Never met a bunting I didn’t like. Super fun to make.

Today my heart is full, I’m counting my blessings:

sleeping late, Joey made coffee, fall break, time to create and breath and just be. God’s gifts all.

Posted in diy, Ect. | Tagged bunting, candy corn, handprint art | 1 Comment »

Scoop’d

October 14, 2011 by designnarrative

This girl is turning seven soon. This year her party was at Scoop’d in Turkey Creek.

Fabulous ice cream sunday cupcakes by Jennifer Morton-this girls has skills.

Ava got to make a batch of chocolate ice cream. Foodie Heaven for her mom!

This face says it all!

The girls made their own sundaes with marshmallows, Reese cups, sprinkles, Oreos, fudge, caramel, cherries and whipped cream.

I think this is the first party of the 11, I’ve hosted for my kids that I really enjoyed!

So nice to not cook, clean, or all that jazz!

Such sweet, sweet girls and little brother too.

Thanks Scoop’d! We’ll be back soon!

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Frogtastic

October 13, 2011 by designnarrative

Last Saturday found Ava searching for the perfect rocks

To make a special gift for Mrs. Frear

Frogs are the classroom mascot

The note had no less than four hearts and said, “Mrs. Frear, You’re Frogtastick!!!”

Yes Ava, she is! We are so thankful for the wonderful staff at Farragut Primary!

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Sycamore Springs Hayride and Pumpkin Patch

October 2, 2011 by designnarrative

This weekend was spent on our family farm at Sycamore Springs in Allardt, Tn (near Jamestown) 931-879-5526.

Here is the view from the hayride of the tree house, new trees, and pumpkin put-put in the background.

Every Friday 4-7 and Saturday 2-7 in October are open to the public. Field trips and parties by reservation.

We rode through the Tennessee trail to one of the five pumpkin patches.

It was the quintessential fall activity to help the kids find the perfect pumpkin.

Team Thompson on the hayride

Wreaths, gourds, butternut squash, and Indian corn are available.

The white polar bear pumpkins were a favorite of A and G’s .

Tom Turkey is our mascot.

My kids were able to convince Grandmama to ride the Pumpkin express. Corn hole, put-put, gravel Tonka pile, old-fashioned games, fire circle for s’mores, and gift shop are available. I’m biased but it’s really worth the drive! I’ll throw in spiced cider for our Farragut friends who make the drive!

Posted in Ect. | Tagged hayride, pumpkin patch, Sycamore Springs | Leave a Comment »