When I Grow Up

When I grow up I do not want to be famous. I want to simply make a difference in someone's life. My heart has dreams of traveling abroad and saving lives. Those dreams, for reasons understood, must be worked around. I can not travel to foreign lands to aid those who live there. However, my feet can walk miles around where I live. My hands are perfectly capable of helping sculpt better tomorrows for those near by.

My mind is constantly churning up new ideas on how to serve others. I dream of: gift bags for those getting treated for Cancer, making small mementos for children who live most days in the hospital, and even the simple act of donating my own blood. It's hard to explain why there is such a tugging for me to do things of this sort. These are all things that I am yet to do but will someday accomplish, for sure. My heart will not rest until I have done so. Donating money for a good cause, walking for a cure, running on behalf of my beliefs; These are all things on my bucket list. These are all things I must accomplish.


You see, when I grow up I do not want to be famous. I simply want to be rich. Rich in the sense that my heart has filled with so much love that it wants to explode. My mind will be overflowing with understanding of what it truly means to be in need. Yes, I will be rich. Rich of heart & mind. My soul will flutter with those of a greater need and my feet will walk beside those in need of nothing more than a friend.

'What's Up Wednesday' 2nd Edition

Welcome to another Wednesday friends! I'm not sure about you but I am in complete Aww over the fact that it is already the end of May. This has been a pretty good month. Well, besides the part about still waiting to move into our home. That's right- we're still waiting... I digress however. Let's try to keep a focus on the positive for right now.

My family & I enjoyed a fun filled day at the Renaissance Faire a couple weekends ago. The first annual event was held at Hunt Club Farm in Virginia Beach, Virginia. It was fairly small in comparison to the last Renaissance event I attended but it was still fun!

A Pirate, Birds of Prey Demonstrations, & Heavy Armor Jousting are only a few of the many things the day held for us. A Jester on stilts occupied the grounds as well. While we were walking around the petting zoo there were also turkeys, peacocks, and a black cat walking around with the crowd. I have been to petting zoos before but nothing this cool before.

We also welcomed a new addition into the Bevil household a couple weeks ago. While we were at the Renaissance Faire there was a cage full of "Lion Head Rabbits". The fact that they were only asking $30 was amazing because most that I have see are a bit more than that. Surprisingly enough, the hubby was on board with us getting one. After tracking down the person who was in charge of selling them we picked a little gray fur ball from the corner of the cage, loaded her up, and brought her home. 'Gypsy' became her name & her favorite thing is to give you kisses on your nose ♥.

In the "bloggy world" my upcoming housewarming event finally has a name- the Come Kiss My Grits Housewarming Party is scheduled for July 15th-July 28th. Many amazing bloggers have already jumped on board but there are still numerous spots available. If you would like more information, you can find it HERE. While you're there grab a banner and spread the word... It's gonna be grand! I'd hate for anyone to miss out.

Win a kid's tee from 'Headline Shirts'

At the beginning of this month I was contacted by Headline Shirts concerning a possible review & giveaway. Just recently, the company introduced a kids line of shirts and this would be the product that they wanted me to review. Being a fan of funny t-shirts, I jumped all over this opportunity. What's better than having my own funny t-shirt to wear? Why- having an adorably funny t-shirt for Bubbie to wear around.

First thing I noticed when the shirt arrived was that it was enclosed in biodegradable packaging! Not only does this company make awesome products (they have t-shirts along with accessories) but they are also environmentally friendly. Double Score! After opening the package and feeling how soft the shirt was... I'm definitely a Headline Shirts "Super Fan". Then throw in the first time I laid eyes on the adorable flying squirrel pictured on Bubbie's new shirt and I might as well get a job for these people!

The new kid's sizes run as follows: 2t, 4t, 6, 8, and 10. As for the designs, they are all kid friendly and placed on a poly/cotton blended shirt using Eco-friendly inks. Wait- did I mention that all of the tees are hand-sewn in San Francisco, CA? Just another spectacular reason to purchase your kid's next t-shirt (or your own) from Headline Shirts.

Sign up for their newsletter to receive $5 off your purchase.
****
One lucky reader will win a Free Kid's Tee
courtesy of Headline Shirts and Sugar in My Grits.



a Rafflecopter giveaway **I received a free shirt to review from Headline Shirts. The opinions of this post, however, are solely my own**

{Pinning!} Sacrifice

For this week's {Pinning!} post I was originally planning on sharing my favorite Red, White, & Blue pins. However, at my house, Memorial Day is a day that we tend to simply "make it through". Do not get me wrong, I understand the reason behind the day. But see- my family constantly live with the ghosts of those who were once here before giving their lives. My husband, especially, lives with the memories of friends lost. Today may be a so-called "holiday" to celebrate these fearless people but for us- it's a day like no other. A day we personally remember Sgt Dan Frazier, SSG John Cleaver, & the many others who we have lost in the past few years.

::{Sacrifice}::

Source: Flickr via Jessica on Pinterest

Source: Tumblr via Nicole on Pinterest

Source: corinnegregory.com via Stephen on Pinterest

Reflections by Lee Teter
Source: Tangled Trees via Jessica on Pinterest

Source: Sugar in My Grits via Jessica on Pinterest

Come Join Us!

A Letter to the Quilt Maker

I guess I need to start off with a tad bit of info so that you can understand the following letter (of sorts)...."The Quilt Maker" is a name that refers to my long time neighbor growing up. My family moved in when I was a whopping year old and we were neighbors until last year. I have so many memories that were shared with her. Memories that range from watching "The Wild, Wild West" (an old show about the real lives Billy the Kid & such) while waiting on the bus to run in the mornings to the last visit we had working on a quilt that I am yet to finish. She passed away last year and my heart still hurts today. I try to focus on the good times, the lessons learned, the legacy she has left in my soul but it's hard sometimes. This was a "letter" that I typed up on my livejournal account last month as a way to try to cope a bit.

(MaryHelen, lil' Bubbie, & her great-grandson Will)

Days have gone by. Months even. I'm not really sure but for some reason I had myself convinced that this would become easier with the passing days. Boy was I wrong! Every little things reminds me of you. My heart misses you so much. We had just reconnected after years of no contact. Even then, I thought of you often. Wondered what you were doing. How you were. There was so much still that I wanted you to teach me. The rest of the ends and outs of sewing. How to use the embroidery machine. We never got to finish the quilt we started. It's hard to even imagine finishing it without you. I want to SO badly but the tears always cloud my eyes. The tears always blur my vision and make it difficult to even see straight.... You didn't even get to meet my daughter. But boy, you would LOVE her.

You've visited me in my dreams a time or two. My waking hours find me missing you. My dreams are sweet as if you are still here. Most would say that you are still here. Your presence can be found in the machines & cloth that you passed down to me. My hands are able to touch the same pages that your have thumbed though numerous times in the books you gave to me the last time we visited with one another. However, all these things are bitter sweet memories. Your memories make me smile, do not get me wrong, but then again- I'm not coping very well. Letting go has never been a strong point of mine. I want to still be able to pick up the phone and call. Your number is still in my phone. It's been how many months now? In the late hours of the night I even called it by accident once. Then again- at the time maybe it was a sign that I had needed. Still... my heart hurts.

This year is bringing so many wonderful things my way. The spiritual side of me hopes that you are above watching and rejoicing that things are finally going right for me. For the kids. We are on the path of things being comfortable for us. Things are improving above my highest expectations and yes, I'd like to think that you may have had a hand in it all. Yes- I'm sure you are up there watching. Cheering me on. And if you did have a hand in our success... Thank You. And if not, Thank you anyways.

I could take hours to Thank you for the things that you have given me over the 25 years that I have known you. It would take days to cover the exact amount of gratitude that I have towards you. But no, I chose to keep these things private between you and I. As my mind ticks off each bullet point I can only hope that it helps my heart heal. The hurt is too much at times but then again, at least I was able to know you. Those years you looked over me. The numerous memories and conversations we shared; These are the things that will take me down the path of grieving.

I miss you. I love you. And above all- I'll continue to make you proud.

Cuteness Alert

Foodie Friday- First edition.

I'm not sure about all of you but I know I enjoy a good food blog. As I've hopped around from blog to blog this week, I have come across some wonderful foodie blogs that I feel should be shared. Some of these you may already follow. However, if any of them are not on your "follow" list- please, add them right away! I'd hate for you to miss their greatness any longer.



Brandy's Baking is an adorable blog run by Brandy K. I could honestly sit and click from recipe to recipe for hours on end without getting bored. From cupcakes, to cookies, to candy, and even breads... You'll find them there. Swing by & give this blog a look-see. I can almost guarantee that you'll leave an avid follower.

The Girl Who Ate Everything. Kinda sounds like me- that was my first thought. Christy, an admitted "Foodaholic", shares recipes of everything from Appetizers to Desserts and everything in between. There are even a few crock pot recipes that I plan on giving a whirl.

{Not Quite} Susie Homemaker is one of my favorite blogs that I have discovered lately. Shell provides a wonderful mixture of life, reviews, & recipes. I am continuously finding myself returning to read more. Though Shell's blog is not solely recipes I am including it in my "Foodie Friday" post because there are some amazing recipes on her site.

These three sites are just the tip of the "foodie blog" iceberg. If you have, or know of a, blog I should check out let me know. Leave a comment below, on my Facebook Fan page, or feel free to email me over at jessica[dot]bevil[at]gmail[dot]com....

Math City- a book review

Math City brings the reader an entirely new way of looking at the world around them. The author uses mathematical concepts to entertain like no other book that I have read. What would it be like if the world were occupied by numbers and equations? Ahmad Amani illustrates just that in this one of a kind read.

"Monster Number was grossly overweight and had a shaggy body like a mammoth. In the beginning, Monster number could not walk very well and swayed a little, tottering, and falling. But he was trained for detecting and killing by my father.

After a few days, we attacked Math City. Math City was bombarded, the doors and the walls shaking while the dark shade of the Monster Number came down, covering the city. Monster Number threw big stones at Math City, one after another, and a like repulsive ghoul crashed through any barrier. And then some horrible explosions began.

The Monster Number entered the city, and we followed him. He smashed a lot of numbers as he put down his steps on the earth. My father tried to feed One numbers to the Monster Number, and he gradually became bigger and bigger. But eventually he became too obese, and couldn't breathe easily. He fell down.

Monster Number crept down, but he couldn't continue any more. My father furiously ordered him back to fight but the Monster Number groaned, "I can't carry this giant body." And so the Monster number only could conquer half of the city."

Excerpt via Amazon

*****
I was contacted, by the author, to review this book. In the beginning I was unsure what to expect. However, as I dove further into the book I was pleasantly surprised. The characters all have such personality and the story line really does have plenty to teach. If you are looking for a quick read that also stimulates the mind- this would be a book to check out.

Ahmad Amani has provided all Sugar in My Grits with a free copy of Math City via Smashwords.com.
Simply enter the code FV96J upon checkout.
(Expires: June 23, 2013)

[Sugar Rating: ★★★★☆]

Wordless Wednesday

These are a few photos that I took a couple years ago in Wilmington, NC. The hubs, lil' Bub, and myself went back to the place where it all began. I was a girl in college. The hubs was a soldier just returning from his first deployment. We met, fell in love, & here we are 4 years and 2 kids later.

Linking up with Project Alicia this week!

Thoughts and Prayers Needed

The woman in this video is my husband's mom. I wanted to take the time to ask if everyone would keep her in their thoughts as she recovers and faces the challenges that lie ahead. The attack resulted in her having to get 75 stitches. Also, as the video states, she will have to get facial reconstructive surgery to correct the damage done to her face. This is not the first time that people have had problems with the stray dogs in this area. Many other attacks have occurred but yet the county has failed to help resolve the issue.

We area currently stationed in Virgina and she lives in Alabama. We have not seen her or talked to her personally but my husband has spoken to his step-dad. We'll be keeping in contact with him to see how things are progressing with her. So though I rarely ask things like this; Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. I will try to keep everyone up to date on her recovery as well. Thank you in advance!

♥,
Jessica

{Pinning!} Craving Cupcakes

Cupcakes... A reborn obsession of mine. There's just something about being able to do so many brilliant things with something so small. The amount of taste contained in each little liner is amazing. Add to this obsession, the wonderful world of Pinterest, and this girl is one happy chick.

★Cupcakes by the Twisted Sisters★

Source: Sugar in My Grits via Jessica on Pinterest

★Cookies -n- Creme★

Source: Annie's Eats via Tracey on Pinterest

★Blue Velvet★

Source: One Particular Kitchen via Jessica on Pinterest

★Highway to Heaven★

Source: Sweetapolita via Tracey on Pinterest

★Hot Fudge Whopper★

Source: Brandy's Baking via nd+ on Pinterest

★White Chocolate, Peanut Butter, & Banana★

Source: Picky Palate via Tracey on Pinterest

★Cadbury Creme Egg★

Source: The Cupcake Activist via Emily on Pinterest

***** This delish collection of cupcakes has been brought to you as part of the {Pinning!} blog hop over at A Night Owl blog. Also, as part of Totally Pinworthy via MahliMoo, Me and Three. Feel free to join us!

Win free Ad Space!!

Today's gloomy weather had me feeling a tad bit down. Things have been dragging feet when it comes to our house being ready and it has me a smidge upset. Technically we should have already been moved in. I understand though- things happen and it'll all be dust in the wind once we're moved in. Anywho~ I've been trying to pass some time today doing things that would cheer me up. Preparing for the upcoming "Housewarming Blog Event" being one of those things. After messaging a few people about contributing to the event I became bored by simply calling it the upcoming "Housewarming Blog Event". I want a catchy name. It needs to be something that stands out and draws people in. So here's my idea to find that perfect name... a contest!
*****
The object of the contest is to have you comment with a name that you believe would be perfect for the event. You can comment on this post or over on my Facebook fan page.

Only one entry per person. Must include email address or Facebook Link.
Submissions will be taken up until May 27th at 11pm EST.
Voting will then begin here on May 28th to pick the winner.
The Winner will receive:
FREE 125x125 advertising space during the 2 weeks of the blog event.
(Winner must provide the 125x125 banner that they want displayed)

Good Luck & Happy Entering!!

Crock Pot Roasted Chicken

If you're anything like me, some night you just don't feel like standing over a hot stove to prepare dinner. However, you have to feed the family and you coped out with sandwiches the night before. A few weeks ago I went on a search for fabulous crock pot meals. Yes, I too, LOVE crock pot meals. As a part of my search I am excited to say I found this Crock Pot Roasted Chicken via Jenn Bare at Get Crocked.

Crock Pot Roasted Chicken
What you'll need:

2 tsp salt

2 tsp paprika

1 tsp cayenne pepper

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp thyme (I left this out)

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp white pepper

1 large roasting chicken

1 c chopped onions (The hubs doesn't eat onions)

What to do:

1. Mix all spices in a bowl
2. Remove any giblets from inside the chicken
3. Rinse chicken
4. Rub spice mix all over chicken
5. Place chicken in resealable bag & refrigerate over night (I never do because I forget the night before)
6. Chopped onions will be placed in bottom of crock pot when you are ready to cook the chicken
7. Place the chicken, no water, inside the crockpot (The chicken produces it's own juices)
8. Cook on low for 4-8hrs but be sure to check after 4 hours (As the Crock Pot Girl recommends, I prefer to pick a chicken with a pop-up timer)
9. Once chicken is done, place on plate with your favorite sides
10. Enjoy!

I have prepared this chicken twice since finding the recipe. The family LOVES this chicken and better yet- there is always left over chicken for the next day!
So tell me- How'd you like it?!

'What's up Wednesday'

Happy Wednesday Friends!

I wanted to start off with a HUGE apology for being away the last few days. My ventures have included out and about errands, finding a few new blogs to follow, expanding my Pinterest collections, & building up my Facebook page. Throw in the fact that I was up from 3:45am until 12:30am yesterday and you great many sources of excuses. But still- I apologize for vanishing on you all!

With that out of the way I wanted to let you guys know of some of the good fortune I have encountered over the past few days. A woman can boast. Can she not?

I edited this, already cute, photo of my daughter... turning it into something awesome. It is now my cover photo of my Facebook Fanpage.

She may only be 11 months old but boy does she already love the camera.


Okay, so this may seem kind of geeky but judge me if you want. I am ecstatic to announce that I received a comment from the one and only Mama Kat! It wasn't anything too personal but still... It really did may my whole day bright and sun shiny. You can read the post she commented on HERE.

Yesterday while I was out running errands I decided to check my Twitter feed from my phone. Ok, I was actually sitting in my car while the kids napped because I refused to wake the demon spawn Bubbie up. Much to my pleasure I saw that Twisted Sisters Cupcakes were going to have their pink Diva van at a local shopping center. you can bet your sweet booty that I ventured over and picked up a 6pk 'Diva Sampler' for the family.

If you happen to be in the Hampton Roads Virginia area, you should definitely look these girls up! If you're going to be vacationing in Virginia Beach or Williamsburg, VA I would also recommend tracking the Diva van down or looking up their shop. It'll be well worth the drive.


The last, but definitely not least, awesome thing that has happened is that there is a new look in order for Sugar in My Grits!! Eek!! A fellow blogger is currently working on something for me to switch over to. I love my current look but I am ready to switch to something new. With my blog evolving I just feel that it is ready for a change. I've decided to be in this for the long haul. There's nothing better for a new beginning than a new look... Right?!

So what has happened to you lately that you are excited about? Anything exciting in the works? Tell me about it...

Happy Momma's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers, and mothers-to-be out there. As a mom myself I know that this special day is truly deserved. Kick your feet up, let the others do the work, & just enjoy your day.

Looking for guest bloggers and more!

Good Day Everyone!
I wanted to take the time to share some future plans with you all. For those who have not heard yet-
I will be holding the 'Come Kiss My Grits Housewarming Party' blog event!!!
Date of event:
July 15th-July 28th TBD

Reason to celebrate:
The family & I will be moving into our first home sometime in June. Hence the housewarming theme.

(Photo Source)

Event will consist of:

DIY Posts

Tips for the Household

Money Saving Suggestions

Reviews of some of my favorite products

Giveaways from some amazing shops/businesses

Possibly a link up (or two)

I'm pretty excited about this event. With family living nowhere close by, I will not be having an actual housewarming party. This event will give me a chance to celebrate just an amazing milestone. To make things even better, I'll be able to celebrate with my readers & fellow bloggers.

I'm looking for:

Contributing Guest Bloggers

Designers willing to donate a couple banners & a flyer

Shops/Businesses willing to make donations for giveaways &/or reviews

Anyone interested in purchasing advertisement space for the event

People to help me spread the word

If you would like to contribute anything to the event please let me know. Simply leave a comment below with your email address & how you would like to help. You could also send an email straight to my inbox at jessica[dot]bevil[at]gmail.com... Anyone taking part in the event in any way will be offered free advertisement space for the running time of the event.

Come help me celebrate!
Look forward to hearing from you all soon! ♥,
Jessica

Feel free to snag a banner & spread the word!

<center><a href="http://mommiesblog2011.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"> <img src="http://i1140.photobucket.com/albums/n561/sugarnmygrits/150housewarmingbanner.jpg" border="0" alt="Sugar in my Grits"/></a></center>

My Local Dream Weekend- Writer's Workshop

It's that time again! Time to join in on Mama Kat's Writer's Workshop.
For those who do not know, Mama Kat's Pretty Much world Famous Writer's Workshop is a weekly meme. Five prompts are provided to pick from. After choosing one and writing about it, we head on over to link up with other writers. You can find out more by clicking on the banner below.

Chosen Prompt: You have a 3 day weekend to do anything you want with your family...money is not a factor, BUT you must stay in your own state. What would you do?

What to do? What to do? We have 3 WHOLE days, an endless supply of money, & happen to live in a tourist's dream location. Located less than an hour from Colonial Williamsburg, our 3 days would be fun filled.

Checking into the wonderful Great Wolf Lodge would be our first stop. After dropping off our luggage we would begin our weekend by seeing the sites around Williamsburg. Our first day would be educational. Starting out visiting the local art museums, Historic Jamestowne, Jamestown Settlement, & Yorktown Battlefield. We would all learn many new things about our country and where it began. Laying down to sleep that night I would feel accomplished as a mother. My children had indeed learned something new... & had fun doing it.

(Photo Source)

The next morning I'm sure I would have to wrestle everyone out of bed. I'd rush them out the door & down to breakfast. The night before I told my husband to keep today's adventure a secret. The kids beg and try to persuade us to let them in on the plans. Negative Batman... our lips are sealed until we pull up to the gate. Seeing their eyes light up as they see the Busch Gardens sign is priceless! Watching them as they first step into the park, hearing them plan where they want to go first, & just knowing that they'll remember this day forever- it's all worth the hassle it took to wake them all up. We ride all the rides and enjoy the typical amusement park atmosphere.

The heat has been beating down on us though. Time to cool off. Next stop- Water Country USA. The rest of the day is spent playing in the water, soaking up the sun, & taking in a few shows. After taking the time to eat some dinner, back to the resort we go. The kids fall into a state of unconsciousness almost immediately. Boy, do I wish it were this easy every night to get them off to bed. Once the kids are all asleep its cuddle time with the hubby. This has become such a rare occurrence since the kids came along. It's nice to just drift off in his arms again. Sleep devours me & the next thing I know I'm waking up to the sound of my alarm. Round two of running everyone out of bed.

Everyone seems to be saddened by the fact that this is our last day. I give everyone a pep talk to let them know that yes it sucks that it's our last day here but then again, that's one more reason for us to make the most of the day. During breakfast we all decide to head out to spend our third day at Virginia Beach. Now I'm not a big fan of the sand but if it makes the kids happy- I'm there. Not to mention, this was my chance to finally set up camp with a good book and let the hubby do all the chasing after of the kids.

(Photo Source)

After packing up the car we were on our way to the beach. Before hitting the sand though we decided to whip in for a visit to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. While there we see beautiful creatures & learn so many interesting facts. The IMAX show we see is wonderful as well. After a few hours it's off to our final destination... the beach. The sun, the waves, the sand (ugh). Me, with my book in hand, the Hubby chasing after the kids. I'm so sad to see this weekend come to a close. As a family we watch the sun set on the horizon. Loading up the car I can't help but be thankful for such an opportunity. The weekend may be coming to an end but then again- at least it happened in the first place. Right?!

5 Beginner Tips to Saving on Groceries

For some time now, I have wanted to get into the wide world of couponing. Something about it intimidated me though. About a month ago I decided to start off slow and see what I was capable of. Here are a few tips that I've found that work for me. I guess you could call it 'Advice for Beginners'.

(Photo Source)

Five Tips to Start Saving on Groceries
Find a Website, or a Few, Pertaining to Couponing- To me, this has been a very helpful & encouraging tool in my money saving endeavors. My favorite site BY FAR is The Krazy Coupon Lady. There are a lot of great deals laid out for you; As well as 'Featured Braggers' who share what they have saved and from where. This site may be a favorite for you, it may not, but what ever site it is- Bookmark it, Visit regularly, Love it as if it were your child.

Get to Know Your Local Stores- I've noticed through my observation that some stores switch back and forth between what brands are on sale. One week it may be a certain soda brand, the next week it switches to the competitor. This is also something that I have noticed with it comes to certain ice cream brands. Also, some stores offer amazing Buy One, Get One (BOGO) offers. This happens to be my favorite because in many cases I have been able to purchase 2 dinner items for the price of only one.

Check the Sales Papers- I'm not sure about where you live but around my area certain sales papers come on certain days. Other papers I simply look up online. This is where you'll find those BOGO offers that I mentioned above. Another thing that I have found in the papers of one local store are deals where if you buy these two items, you get this item free. Without checking the paper, you are less likely to know about this offer.

Meal Plan/Make a List- This is something that I have actually been doing for a few months now. I found it easier to save money with a plan. Now that I have started getting more into couponing and deal hunting I usually sit down and plan my meals by what is on sale. As I go along, I create my shopping list. Writing what is on sale at which store. It may take a little bit of time but once you get through the check out line and see how much you have saved in comparison to those weeks where you shopped blindly, it's Totally worth it.

Clip Those Coupons- This also goes hand in hand with the two previous tips. However, I have started clipping coupons for anything that I use. Organize them and place them into a handy dandy binder (check out this video from The Krazy Coupon Lady). When you go shopping, take the binder with you. If there is a close out (items are being removed from shelves soon) or sale that is not listed in the sales paper, you'll already be prepared with your coupons in tow.

Give it a try! I'm sure you won't be disappointed!

Twisted Sisters Cupcakes

As some of you know, this past Saturday, the family and I celebrated my birthday at the First Annual Eagle Festival. One of the vendors there was Twisted Sisters Cupcakes. Not only do these lovely ladies have a shop in Virginia Beach (Twisted Sisters Cafe) but they also travel around the area bringing their love for cupcakes to the locals. Can you say brilliant?!

On my way out of the festival I decided to swing by to pick up a 3pk of their cupcakes to enjoy in place of a birthday cake. This 3pk (pictured above) held (1)'Chocolate Wtf!'- from the What the Fudge line, (1)'June Cleaver'- Vanilla Vanilla dressed for spring, & (1)'Southern Belle'- Red Velvet buttermilk cake with a hint of cocoa and a silky cream cheese frosting. After very slowly making my way through the 3 cupcakes (I didn't want the experience to end), I can honestly say that they were all delish! A perfect substitution for a birthday cake. My favorite being the Chocolate Wtf! because though it was a great deal of chocolate, it was not overwhelming at all. It was a perfect blend in fact.

If you happen to be in the Virginia Beach area, or Hampton Roads area, be sure to check to see where the girls are gonna be. You can find more information on their Facebook page or their Website. You can also follow them on Twitter.

27 Reasons...

Yesterday morning (at exactly 5:05) I turned 27 years old. After enjoying such a fun filled day with the family, I've decided to share 27 reasons for my happiness.

27 Reasons for My Happiness

-I have one amazing family!
-My doggies (and rabbit) are pretty awesome too.
-Good friends are hard to find but this girl has quite a few.
-Many others have it worse than me.
-Things are finally falling into place for us. Slowly- but surely.
-I've made it this far in life without dying, killing anyone, or ending up in jail.
-Proud owner of an Audi A4. It's a pretty sweet ride.
-My kids haven't driven me completely crazy... yet.
-Pinterest.
-I've lost about 66% of my pregnancy weight!
-Lately I've had more time to read books I like.
-I've completed over 75% of my schooling.
-Me, or my kids, want for nothing.
-My future is brighter than EVER.
-Cupcakes.
-I'm getting pretty good at couponing.
-There finally seems to be routine to my madness around the house.
-My blog is doing well & growing.
-The 'happy pills' seem to be helping with this a great deal too.
-I've been taking more pictures lately. I didn't realize how much I missed it.
-Did I mention that today was my birthday?? hehe
-Hearing Bubbie say 'I Love You'.
-Lil' E when she says 'Da-Da'.
-My Hubby & I have known each other 4 years as of last month.
-There is a balance to my life that I've never had before.
-The warm weather is finally here... I hate the cold.
-This video...

Rest Assured on Your Big Day

(PHOTO SOURCE)
When you were married, did rain ruin your perfect day? Did your photographer back out? Even worse, did something happen and the groom or yourself fall ill? Wouldn't it have been nice to have had insurance covering your wedding to aid in such occurrences? Believe it or not, if you live in the United Kingdom, this is a real possibility.

I'm sure you would agree that planning a wedding is stressful enough for the bride and groom to be. Now throw in the fears of things going wrong and your bride and groom become a nervous wreck. Anyone getting married should be able to enjoy the process, look forward to the big day, and know that things will be okay. Wedding insurance allows this to happen.

A few things to keep in mind:
Not all policies insure the same things. -Be sure to shop around. Read the policies carefully. Look into a few different policies that are available to you. If there is not one that fits your needs perfectly, I'm pretty sure one will come pretty darn close.

Reviews from other customers are important. -Get into the reviews of those policies you are interested in. Nothing will give you a better view of what to expect than what others have to say. Who knows, this could be the final decision maker for you.

Overseas weddings + wedding insurance= Important. -Miscommunication, unexpected illness, difficulty correcting problems... These are just a few reasons why overseas weddings really need to be insured. A difference in language leaves room for a massive amount of misunderstanding. (PHOTO SOURCE)



Living in the United Kingdom and want to look more into this wonderful service? Then head on over to this wonderful site to learn more.

Cinnamon Raisin Swirl French Toast

For months years I heard my husband brag about how amazing his dad's french toast was. Finally, after discovering my desire to cook, I asked him mom for the recipe. I've since made this recipe a hand full of times. It has taken me a few trials and errors to get it the way the husband REALLY likes it but I think I've finally got it down. The last time I made it I decided to share this yummy breakfast, brunch, or dinner with you all! Hope you enjoy!!

You will need:

• Pepperidge Farm Cinnamon Raisin Swirl Bread (or like kind)
• 3 xl eggs per 6 slices of bread
• 1 tbsp sugar per egg
• crisco

What you'll do:

1. Set burner to desired temperature. You want to brown the toast while cooking it thoroughly. I set mine to the point between 5 & 6. Yours may be different according to your stove.


2. Place eggs & sugar into a bowl together. Beat the mixture until sugar is dissolved.


3. Once your pan is hot, add Crisco. The amount is up to you. Do not use too much however because it will make your toast soggy. You may also have to add a bit more later. It depends on how many pieces of toast you are preparing. The Crisco will begin to bubble (and pop) once it heats up.


4. Place a piece of toast into the egg mixture; making sure it is covered on all sides.


5. Carefully put the toast into the pan. (It will pop and crackle some so be cautious) Cook the toast to the desired brownness & flip. Do the same for the second side.


6. Repeat the above process for the remaining pieces of toasts.


7. Once all your toast is done; place them on your plates, drench them in syrup, & chow down!

Be sure to come back to let me know how it turns out!