The other day, my friend Christine aka 'Listgirl', also fellow designer at Little Dreamer Designs, posted these Christmas videos on her blog and I thought they were very entertaining that I just had to share!! It's sort of a THEN and NOW rendition of the nativity story and the birth of Jesus. Enjoy!
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Lunar Eclipse
Last night, I had THE WORST migraine headache ever. :( It hit me so hard that I had to vomit to feel better. I barely could move or talk or open my eyes. Rarely does it ever get this extreme, but maybe after being so busy this past week and over the weekend, I had to suffer the consequence somehow and so it came with a massive headache that left me feeling like I got hit by a mack truck. Ugh... Fortunately, I feel so much better this morning after knocking out early last night while everyone else got to enjoy the lunar eclipse that appeared shortly after midnight....
I missed out on it, but I do recall hearing my husband outside our deck lugging his tripod and camera in hand and hearing him say, "WHOAHHHHHHHH, THAT'S COOL!" I'm not sure if I was dreaming or awake, but I remember him barging in our bedroom turning on all the lights that my eyes hurt, to show me the shot he took. I couldn't really see because my vision was blurred, but I know I must of said, "Oh, that's nice...." and went back to sleep. But, now that I'm awake and had my morning cup of joe, I went on Facebook and saw that he actually took a REALLY great photo of the eclipse. Studies say that the last time this occurred was in 1638. Dude, that is like over 3 centuries ago....
So, without further ado... Just thought I'd share the photo that was took last night by my other half :) Enjoy!
I missed out on it, but I do recall hearing my husband outside our deck lugging his tripod and camera in hand and hearing him say, "WHOAHHHHHHHH, THAT'S COOL!" I'm not sure if I was dreaming or awake, but I remember him barging in our bedroom turning on all the lights that my eyes hurt, to show me the shot he took. I couldn't really see because my vision was blurred, but I know I must of said, "Oh, that's nice...." and went back to sleep. But, now that I'm awake and had my morning cup of joe, I went on Facebook and saw that he actually took a REALLY great photo of the eclipse. Studies say that the last time this occurred was in 1638. Dude, that is like over 3 centuries ago....
So, without further ado... Just thought I'd share the photo that was took last night by my other half :) Enjoy!
Labels:
photography
Monday, December 13, 2010
Welcome Baby Ava :)
Hello,
Over the weekend, my sister gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, Ava!! She was born 12/12/10 @ 1:22 pm, weighing 7 lbs 5 oz + 21 inches long :) I am so blessed to be an Auntie to another lovely niece... I say this because this is their 4th daughter and not sure if they are thinking of having any more unless they are feeling up to trying one LAST time for a boy... Either way, they are so happy to receive another blessing into their family of all princesses :)
The morning of, my family and I were planning to attend the annual Christmas celebration at our church when I get a call around 6 am in the morning that my sister's water broke. So thankfully, it was on a weekend where I had my husband home to watch the boys. As soon as I got there she was dilated at 5 cm and within a few hours, it was time for her to push. Being able to witness such a miracle of life other than my own birth experience, is such an incredible feeling of awe and amazement of this new life being brought into the world. It's something that I don't think anyone can humanly explain which only gives us no other explanation, but that it is a gift and a blessing from God.
Welcome my beautiful niece, baby Ava Go <3
Over the weekend, my sister gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, Ava!! She was born 12/12/10 @ 1:22 pm, weighing 7 lbs 5 oz + 21 inches long :) I am so blessed to be an Auntie to another lovely niece... I say this because this is their 4th daughter and not sure if they are thinking of having any more unless they are feeling up to trying one LAST time for a boy... Either way, they are so happy to receive another blessing into their family of all princesses :)
The morning of, my family and I were planning to attend the annual Christmas celebration at our church when I get a call around 6 am in the morning that my sister's water broke. So thankfully, it was on a weekend where I had my husband home to watch the boys. As soon as I got there she was dilated at 5 cm and within a few hours, it was time for her to push. Being able to witness such a miracle of life other than my own birth experience, is such an incredible feeling of awe and amazement of this new life being brought into the world. It's something that I don't think anyone can humanly explain which only gives us no other explanation, but that it is a gift and a blessing from God.
Welcome my beautiful niece, baby Ava Go <3
Hello, my little love bug!
Congratulations to my sister + BIL, Desma and Junior
Sleeping Beauty
Holding a precious gift, fresh from heaven...
Thursday, December 9, 2010
[DIY Holiday Project] Paper Christmas Tree
Today I have a little holiday craft project to share with you! This one is basically the same technique I used when I created my Christmas Wreath last year, using the same scrapbook paper collection--Sweet Dreams Holiday Avenue by My Mind's Eye. I just adore the glittery + textured feel and gorgeous colors + designs of these papers, but you can use any of your favorite scrapbook papers as you like. This project was inspired by a post I read here and here, from Crate Paper on their blog, but also because I wanted to create these trees to coordinate with the holiday wreath that I mentioned above.
Anyways, here are a few photos of what I did and the final result only took me a little over an hour, but could take longer depending on the size of your tree cone. I also had a lot of extra pre-cut and stapled papers from last year, so that really helped keep this project shorter than usual. Either way, be sure to take your time and have fun with it!
DIY: Paper Christmas Tree
Supplies Needed:
- Craft or Foam Tree Cones
- Patterned Cardstock cut into strips (sizes between 1" x 4" inch to 1" x 5" inch), then ends stapled together
- Hot Glue Gun
1. This step I already had these pre-cut and stapled from the previous year, but what it really is are 1" x 5" strips of patterned paper with ends stapled together.
2. Using your hot glue gun, add a strip of glue to the stapled edges. Be careful because when pressing these down, it can be too hot too touch. Also, you will probably need to hold them down for 10-15 seconds at a time for it to really settle and stick.
3. Begin adhering the strips to the cone about 1.5 to 2 inches above the bottom edge. Do this by overlapping the corners, just a little tiny bit, all around until you come full circle. After that, for each layer move up 1/2 to 3/4 an inch.
4. This first layer makes it hard for the cone to stand steady on its own, so I slightly bended the strips to help the cone lay flat on the surface. You may do this to the rest of the strips, but I found that it didn't quite look right to me, so it's really your preference.
5. Once you reach the very top, the tip of the cone is left uncovered. What I did was punch out a circle of similar size or you can cut it out with scissors and glue that on. The glittered snowflake I used was actually an ornament off my tree. :) But, you can think up your own tree topper ideas such as a paper punched star or circle w/your monogram initials, a small pretty bow or what have you...
Labels:
diy projects,
holidays,
inspiration,
paper crafts,
projects
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
6 Years Ago...
Our Story | Using Sweet Talk
...I gave birth to my first child, Josiah. In exactly one week, he will be turing 6 years old. Sometimes I don't realize how fast time goes by until moments like this where year after year, we celebrate another birthday... or when suddenly they reach a new milestone... or when they start pondering answers to questions such as "Mommy, were you happy to hold me when I was born?" The moment he said these words, I knew I had to scrap a page about it because it was one of those moments that made my heart ache with a realization that he wanted the assurance of my love for him and if his life was important to me...
I know that it doesn't have to do with any lack of love or affection because there is not a day that goes by that we don't spend time together and express love for each other. But, I do recall a conversation we had previously about the physical pain that a mother goes through when giving birth to a child because he was asking so many questions about how a baby is born (Don't worry, no graphic details were shared, lol. Both my sisters are pregnant at the moment, so it sparked a
Everyday since then, I've thought about his question and it really touches my heart that we were able to talk about it and hopefully he will always remember how happy I was that day he was born, that he will always be a gift to me, and that he is worth it all then, now, and always...
Labels:
digital scrapbooking,
inspiration,
life
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Thanksgiving Remembered
The greatest part of Thanksgiving is when we learn to carry the attitude of gratitude in our hearts every single day...
Just thought I'd share a little bit of the photos captured in memory of Thanksgiving 2010 :)
Credits: Used these beautiful free printables by Beth Proudfoot.
Cookie recipe by Lovin' From the Oven.
Cookie recipe by Lovin' From the Oven.
this was THE best turkey ever! thanks to Alton Brown's [Good Eats Roast Turkey]
yummy sides: green salad, candied yams, and roasted veggies + [not shown: mashed potatoes, dressing, spinach dip]
my sis + brother-in-law with their growing baby to be
my beautiful family
Yes, we all ended up so thankful by the end of the night as we were so blessed to spend quality time together, eating a huge delicious meal, and remembering all the wonderful things that we are fortunate to have. God has been very gracious to us all and we thank Him for the many blessing that He bestows upon our families and loved ones.
Now, we are anxiously looking forward to Christmas! Yay!
Labels:
family,
holidays,
photography
Monday, November 22, 2010
My FIRST Photo Book at Shutterfly :)
A few months ago, I saw this amazing deal from Groupon to purchase an 8x8 photo book from Shutterfly for only $10!! So of course, I jumped on it immediately and finally had the chance to create this photo book of our very first family vacation in 2007. I didn't create it using any digital scrapbook layouts (yet!), but since this is my first time creating a photo book, I decided to try out their Custom Path feature where all you do is add your photos and customize the page to your preference! I found it so easy to use and loved that you have such a variety of themes and background styles to choose from and also gives you the opportunity to even customize each page depending on how many photos you'd like to include per page. All this with just a click of a button! It's pure awesomeness!
If you follow Groupon whether on Facebook, Twitter, or on your smartphone app, sometimes deals like this is just too good to pass up!
So if you want to take a peek at it, here is the slideshow! Thanks for looking!
If you follow Groupon whether on Facebook, Twitter, or on your smartphone app, sometimes deals like this is just too good to pass up!
So if you want to take a peek at it, here is the slideshow! Thanks for looking!
Labels:
family,
photo book,
photography
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Mmmmm...Pumpkin Bread
One of the reasons that I love the Fall season is because of the fact that I love Pumpkin Bread. There is only one in particular that I am head over heels for and it's the Pumpkin Bread + Muffin Mix at Trader Joe's. Yes, it's not your fresh-from-scratch kind, but don't let this box fool you. It never fails to please my taste buds and it's extremely moist and buttery, but without the butter. :)
If you have a TJ in your neighborhood, go there now! Actually, run! Because these babies are so popular, that you may even find them out of stock. If you don't have a TJ in your area or even in your state, I don't know what to say except hope + pray they expand their regions, which I'm sure they will. There are so many other great finds at TJ that you can't find in your typical grocery store. To me, it's a whole new shopping experience where I find simple, convenient, and more healthier food and cooking choices that make my life so much easier.
Let's look at my delicious pumpkin bread that I baked the other day, shall we?
Mmm, mmm, mmm.... Pumpkin Bread. I think I'll go eat a slice now. :)
xoxo,
Dahlia
Labels:
cooking,
photography
Thursday, October 7, 2010
RECIPE : Semi-Homemade Pizza Bagels
Last weekend, when we were over our friends' house for a gathering, we made BAGEL PIZZAS with the kids. Originally, my friend was going to make the dough from scratch, but instead this brilliant idea was born. With only a few ingredients and less than 10 minutes to make, saved us both time and money which was a huge benefit and didn't sacrifice any fun especially for the kids. They loved it!
So today, I thought about how much my boys enjoyed making Bagel Pizzas and thought it would be nice to make for lunch. Here are some photos of how simple and easy they are to make, following with the recipe down below :) Enjoy and let me know if you try them!
So today, I thought about how much my boys enjoyed making Bagel Pizzas and thought it would be nice to make for lunch. Here are some photos of how simple and easy they are to make, following with the recipe down below :) Enjoy and let me know if you try them!
Bagels, Pizza Sauce, Cheese, Mushrooms, and Pepperoni (You can customize it to your own and add your favorite toppings)
I love the squeeze top bottle that Contadina Pizza Sauce comes in, makes it so easy!
Lucas in charge of the cheese :)
Josiah adding the mushrooms + later on, we all added the pepperoni
Ready to go in the oven
15 to 20 minutes later, VOILA!
SEMI-HOMEMADE PIZZA BAGELS
- Pre-sliced plain bagels
- 1 bottle Contadina or any Pizza Sauce
- Shredded Cheese
Make It Your Own Toppings:
Pepperoni Slices
Italian Sausage
Ground Beef (cooked)
Ham
Sliced Mushrooms
Bell Pepper
Zucchini
Baby Spinach
Red/Yellow onion
Black Olives
Tomatoes
Pineapples
Preheat oven to 350 degrees while you prepare and make pizzas. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bagels are golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
*Thanks to Jechane Reyes and Chanelle Molina for the inspiration:)
XOXO,
Dahlia
Saturday, September 11, 2010
9/11: A Day to Remember
Photo from Newsbuster.org
Photo from GlobalSecurity.org
Photo from Guardian.co.uk
On a happier note, my boys and I are going to spend the day with this special man whom we call "Hubby and Daddy". This morning started off with a birthday breakfast from moi, an APPLE + CHEESE CREPE W/ BROWN SUGAR AND CINNAMON. Delicious and of course, my hubby loved it all....
xoxo,
Dahlia
Thursday, September 9, 2010
BREAKING NEWS: Fire Explosion in San Bruno, CA
Photo: Justin Sullivan / Getty Images
(KGO Photo)
Earlier this evening around 6:15 pm, it was reported all over the news that there has been a fire explosion in San Bruno CA, not too far away from where I live. Such a devastating situation that is shocking our community. Apparently, the explosion was caused by a high pressure gas line that ran underneath the homes of this residential neighborhood, but the cause of why or how it exploded is still unknown.Currently, it was reported that there are many burn victims and one fatality. Around 35-45 homes have been severely affected by the fires and as far as I can tell on the news, many have been burned to the ground. My heart is heavily burdened for the families who have lost their homes and are suffering from this tragedy. It makes me think of how devastating it would be if this were to happen to me or my loved ones. I could not help but hug my kids closer and tighter after witnessing this. Such a huge reminder to cherish life and our loved ones every day and to take time to pray and be thankful for God's daily mercies and provisions as we go about our lives. Please be praying for this to resolve quickly and for those in need for healing, comfort, and assistance.
For more info on updates and how you can help, visit these links or call these hotlines for details:
ABC 7 News
CBS 5 News
SFIST
For Info On Relatives: San Bruno Emergency Hotline 650-616-7180
To Donate Blood: Blood Centers Of The Pacific 888-393-GIVE
*There is AN URGENT NEED for O Negative Blood donations
UPDATE: PG&E has confirmed that it was indeed one of their gas pipes that exploded and once the cause is determined, they will take full responsibility.
53 homes destroyed, 120 homes damaged; figures expected to increase.
53 homes destroyed, 120 homes damaged; figures expected to increase.
Labels:
latest news
Monday, August 30, 2010
JOSIAH GOES TO SCHOOL
I haven't been able to catch up on this blog for the last 2 1/2 weeks because I had a lot to prepare for and was making time to be with my son, Josiah, who just started Kindergarten today...
I am now a proud parent of a school goer and is so excited for this milestone in his life to come to pass. I admit, I was super anxious a couple of weeks ago, to the point that I would have a hard time sleeping because I was so overwhelmed with mixed emotions. I've been a stay at home mom since he came into my life and realizing that he is now taking a step towards independence, just shook me with all kinds of worries and fears that only a mom would think about. I seriously thought I was going to have a meltdown on this day, but it wasn't so bad after all. I did break into tears and felt the pangs of heartache sweep over me, but as soon as he said, "Okay Mom, I guess it's time to say goodbye. See you later." I knew this was it and I had to accept the fact that he is growing up and is ready to make this step. I guess I didn't expect this day to come so quickly. Time flew too fast and I just need to cherish every day and every moment with my kids as much as possible.
My life is taking a new turn and I know that this day marks the first of many wonderful memories as my son embarks on a new journey. All I can hope for is that he will reach his highest potentials and be an exceptional learner who will LOVE school. I also hope that he will strive to become a strong leader and a positive influence to his teachers, peers, and community. Most of all, I just want him to have fun as he makes the most of these years ahead. May his experiences in school be ones that he will never forget and that he'll have the opportunity to develop and build strong friendships, discover and learn amazing things, and to have the privilege of becoming an independent individual as he learns to make the right choices and decisions...
My life is taking a new turn and I know that this day marks the first of many wonderful memories as my son embarks on a new journey. All I can hope for is that he will reach his highest potentials and be an exceptional learner who will LOVE school. I also hope that he will strive to become a strong leader and a positive influence to his teachers, peers, and community. Most of all, I just want him to have fun as he makes the most of these years ahead. May his experiences in school be ones that he will never forget and that he'll have the opportunity to develop and build strong friendships, discover and learn amazing things, and to have the privilege of becoming an independent individual as he learns to make the right choices and decisions...
Here are a few photos of his orientation last Friday + his FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL TODAY :)
day of orientation
growing taller everyday
"i'm beginning to really like it here"
"its going to be so much fun"
my sons, my pride + joy, my heart + soul
we are so proud of our blessed family
"don't wanna be late, lets go!"
without saying a word to me, his eyes told me "I love you, MOM."
"Mom, are you going to be okay?"
Josiah's first school desk
"okay, so what happens next?"
keeping his focus
the doors close. i stand there to recollect my feelings.
just breathe.
my other son (who is 4, going to kindergarten next year)
he stops and says, "Mommy, what about me? I wanna go to school, too." he totally was lost w/o his big brother, but he was loving that he got Mommy all to himself for a little while!
xoxo,
Dahlia
P.S.
So... now that I got a little bit more time on my hands means more time to design + create...crossing my fingers! <3
Labels:
family,
life,
photography
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