Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Happy 15 Years!



































































































Yesterday was my 15 year Wedding Anniversary. I can not believe it has already been 15 years. God has blessed us so much. I could never give Him enough thanks for all that he has done for us. We have two beautiful boys and never in a million years did we think that at 15 years of marriage we would have a baby girl on the way.



We celebrated this year with a trip to Atlanta, GA due to the fact that I cannot travel more than 4 hours from home and I cannot fly. So we will have to plan the trip we had planned on this year at a different time. Last night we had dinner at City Range and we enjoyed the movie The Help. It was great movie. You can read my dinner review here http://allthingsyummyandnotsoyummy.blogspot.com/2011/08/city-rangethumbs-up-thumbs-down.html?spref=fb and my movie review here http://clicklikeordislike.blogspot.com/2011/08/help.html?spref=fb


So here's to celebrating 15 years of marriage .....




I love you Tommy!!!



























































































































































































































































































































































Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Back to Blogger


Well, I made the choice to move back to blogger from Wordpress! I tried and did not like it. I have continued blogging my business etc. from here so now I am back with personal bloggings (is that a word?) Stay tuned for more......

transfer of the blog

Playing catch up… August 22, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 9:33 pm

Lately I have been feeling overwhelmed by just life in general. It has been really crazy lately and I am really trying to get grips on everything. Just some small updates about the past few weeks. We have enjoyed some time at the lake and weekend before last Tommy took me to Atlanta for the weekend to celebrate our 15 year wedding anniversary. We had planned to go to NYC or LA but I can’t travel more than 3 hours from home and NO flying due to be AMA (advanced maternal age) LOL!









We had a nice time in Hotlanta, and believe me it was HOT! It was probably not the ideal place for a very preggo woman to do a ton of walking. On Friday evening we arrived a little late. We went and had quick dinner at the internationally known VARSITY! Tommy and never been there. It is the largest drive in the world. It was very yummy and great for a preggo lady craving junk to eat. We took advantage of the movie selection in our hotel that evening and watch Hanna….weird…Tommy always chooses the strangest movies!

Saturday morning we walked to the Westin Peachtree and had lunch up 73 stories at the Sun Dial restaurant. It was so good! This southern girl was loving the vanilla/orange iced tea. It was delicious! Then we spent the afternoon walking, shopping, etc. However, after a few hours in the heat we decided that we would go for a swim and then we watched the movie “Life as We Know It”. It was a sad but cute movie. That evening we had dinner at Pitty Pat’s Porch. It was NOT that great! We decided that it was really not worth the money and the food was NOT that good. I will write about that later.

Sunday morning we slept in and then had lunch at Mary Mac’s Tea Room. It was delicious! I would love to have some of the food now. LOL! It was really cool to see all the famous people who had eaten there with the autographed pictures on the wall. Rev. Charles Stanley was right beside my face. LOL! However, there were MANY other celebrities from presidents-tv stars on the wall. The southern food was my favorite meal for the weekend.



This past week on Thursday, Tommy gave into a very often requested wish of Bleeze and we took him to Frankie’s Fun Park. We had dinner at Johnny Rocket’s and then they boys (including Tommy rode the Drop Zone and go-carts) Bleeze had been begging to go for literally about two months because he wanted to see if he had grown enough to drive the beginner’s go-carts. Praise God he had! He would have been devastated if he had not grown enough.

This past weekend we spent some time at the lake again. We had our neighbor and fried Cameron join us. On Saturday, Tommy’ s Dad Tony and his wife Tammy and my niece Lexi spent the day with us. We had a nice time riding the boat and just chilling out!

Now we are back to reality… so much going on and it seems like every time we turn around there is an issue with something…. something is breaking, help not working out, someone not doing what they were supposed too, you know…LIFE! I have decided to start two more blogs of what is on my mind and my special finds and a food blog… LOL! So stay tuned for those.

Hope everyone has a great week! Catch you later.

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Weekend Wrap Up July 25, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 3:57 pm

We had a nice weekend. Friday was kinda rushed and nothing realy exciting. Eli had Third Friday for church he had a fun time swimming and eating pizza with his small group. While Tommy, Bleeze, and myself had a yummy dinner at this new Mexican restaurant! I cannot remember the name of it but it was good and very inexpensive. I will try my best to get the name of next time I am in the area.

Saturday we spent the day in Charlotte with my family to celebrate my sweet nieces third birthday. I have to admit that I am very happy that her favorite restaurant is Cheddars because it is so yummy! LOL! We enjoyed spending time with them.

Yesterday we enjoyed a wonderful message at church, lunch at the airport to watch the planes and come and go, and the rest of the day was a lazy Sunday. I watched the marathon of Little House on the Prairie from the Hallmark channel and then finally at 8:30 last night we had a gourmet dinner… (LOL….grilled cheese sandwiches).

This week is busy for all of us and I look forward to the upcoming weekend for some time at the lake. For now though, hope you all have a great week and I hope to keep up with my blog!

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Weekend wrap up a little late…. July 20, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 5:36 pm

Well, we had a fun weekend last weekend! We made it all about the boys. We took them to the flea market (they love to go and I love to antique shop). Then we went to the mall where we had lunch and walked around for a bit, then we went to the movies to see Transformers 3 (awesome movie), and then we went to play putt-putt at the downtown indoor fun center, and then topped the evening off with dinner at Trio. It was a great night. Do you know how much money we spent? $40. Yep, that’s it. With coupons and barter partners that’s it! That was a fun day and the boys enjoyed every minute of it.

Sunday we went to church where I heard my favorite quote of the week. “Sin makes you stupid”-Bill White! So good! Then we were off to Cracker Barrel for lunch and then we went to register our little Suri at Buy Buy Baby! The boys had so much fun! It was hard to get them out of the clothes though. They were so excited, the thing we could not get them to understand is that just because you register for it, doesn’t mean you are going to get it. LOL! The rest of our Sunday was spent being lazy!

Great weekend! So grateful for it!!!!!

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Fun little getaway……. July 12, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 3:17 pm

We had a good little weekend away this past weekend in Helen GA. Helen is such a fun little town with its German heritage. The boys had a great time Saturday tubing down the Chattahoochee River while my parents hung out with preggo at our cute little bungalow nestled along the river watching Lifetime movies. LOL! We enjoyed just visiting the different shops and a yummy dinner out on Saturday evening. Sunday we visited Moccasin Creek State Park (Beautiful) for just a nice relaxing time before returning home to get ready for this busy week.








Enjoy our pictures from this past weekend.

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It’s a ????? July 8, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 1:35 pm

On Wednesday, July 6, 2011 we headed to the doctor to find out what we were having. We were all excited to find out if it was a boy or girl! Which would it be???? It was funny as I was lying there for the ultrasound I could see how all three of my guys were so anxious to see what it would be. After what seemed like an eternity of the ultra sound tech clicking different measurements and showing us different body parts…. we finally saw the one that we all were waiting for. It was a GIRL!!! yahoo!!!!

After the ultrasound and doctor’s appointment we headed to the mall to pick out an outfit for the revealing party. (so fun watching my three guys ooo and ahhh over all the little girl clothes) . We were honored to host our closest friends and family for dinner and the big reveal. All the guest put their names in a drawing to be one of two lucky winners to reveal the sex and name of our new baby. I was so happy that my best friend Candy’s name was drawn for the sex revealed. I found it funny to watch her removed layers of alternating blue and pink tissue paper until she finally reached the bottom which revealed the sweet pink outfit!!!! My precious niece name was drawn for to reveal our sweet girl’s name which will be Suri Elizabeth Bagwell.

After such a wonderful night I feel extremely blessed and I am so excited to meet the precious baby girl that God has given us to complete our little family. Enjoy the pics from our special day!!!















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happy 4th of july! July 8, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 1:17 pm

We had a great 4th of July at the lake. Eli brought his friend Zac and we had a great time. The boys enjoyed the usual tubing, jumping of very high rocks (yikes), swimming, and jet skiing. We enjoyed fireworks at the sandbar on Sunday evening.





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Summer Days…. June 30, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 8:58 pm

I love Summer, it is my favorite time of year. I would rather be warm than cold any day and I love all the color! The past week or so we have been so busy with work, it is has been crazy. Both Tommy and I are swamped right now but we have manged to have some fun with dinners, bachelorette parties, birthday party, graduation parties, swim time with friends, and much more!

My Belly ( or little baby) is growing everyday and we have less than a week until we find out if we are getting us a little boy or a little girl. I can’t wait until our big reveal party next week! It is going to be so much fun!

Lately, I have been doing a ton of thinking about people and the way the present themselves and how their actions always cause issues for others. It has really made me start to think about everything I do and say, for example……lately neglagence from staff from several places has made ME look negligent. The stupidity of hackers has made me look stupid. The bottom line is I make enough mistakes on my own that I do not need the help of anyone else. LOL! Okay….getting off that soap box and on to another.

I am writing a book. I know some of you are laughing your tails off right now but hey…. I have always wanted to write a book. I decided that if I was every going to do it, then I might as well start on it ASAP! Please say a prayer that I will write with wisdom and in love. I get tickled when I think about writing a book because I think, is my book going to be like Blanche’s book from one of my favorite episodes of the Golden Girls….You know the one….where she stayed up all night writing and nothing made sense! Hahahaha!

Well, it is dinner time at the Bagwell’s and I have got to go cook. I am looking forward to the weekend with my family and celebrating the 4th of July! We are headed to the lake for a few days and I am excited!

So for now peeps….Peace out….

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Proud of my guy…… June 24, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 1:51 pm







Being the proud Mama that I am, I have to brag a little bit. My sweet Eli, has always been a hard worker. I can remember when he was 3 and 4 years old him being such a great helper and worker. He always works hard at what he does. He loves to organize and clean (even to the point of becoming somewhat annoying at times…LOL) but I am thankful. I would rather him be a hard worker than lazy.

This week, he got in his head that he wanted to purchase a couch from Ikea for his bedroom. He went on-line, picked what he wanted, measured his room to make sure that it would fit then he went to work raising the money to purchase the couch. He sold two chairs from his room that he already had, he went to several doors in our neighborhood and offered to cut their grass. He designed a flyer that offers car washing, house cleaning, and lawn care. He cracks me up. Right now, this minute, he is mowing grass. Now, what you have to understand is that Eli is a bit of a perfectionist, that yard will look like professional landscapers got a hold of it and it was my sweet Eli for only $20 bucks. God Love him!

I am enjoying seeing him grow into a man…. I can see it everyday and I am so very proud of him.



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busy beaver June 23, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 6:30 pm

I have been so busy the past week. Trying to roll out new products, entertain two boys for the summer and fight off pregnancy symptoms. We had a very busy weekend last week that included lots of cake orders, graduation parties, memorial service and family dinner for Father’s Day. Monday was busy in the morning but did manage to squeeze in a swim with my brother and his family.

I have been so bad about logging my gratitude. Not that I haven’t been grateful. I think about it every night but I have had a hard time actually blogging it. Going to do it now. Got so much to be thankful for!



1. Thankful for my sweet hubby and boys!

2. Grateful for time with family.

3. Grateful for the time I got to hold my new nephew and watch him hold onto my shirt and stare at me…. so precious!

4. Grateful for busy times but yet rewarding.

5. Grateful for new creativity!



Hope all is well! Catch up more soon with everyone!

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Shipping issues for Allie B. Originals (hopefully resolved June 23, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 1:20 am

Each week we take all the mail for Allie B. Originals to be shipped twice (Tuesday and Friday). Last week after many complaints that people had not received their packages mailed the previous week, I went to the post master to see what the problem was. I have had numerous problems with the postal service and I had made the decision to go with UPS. Going with UPS was a hard decision for me because I will now have to charge shipping to my clients where in the past I have not.

At my trip to the post office we discovered an crate with my mail as well as some other bulk shipments from other individuals/companies that had been placed in a box and under and a counter and had NOT been shipped. The post office offered to make it right for me and promised to ship the packages. I discovered today after another very long discussion with the post master that they did not mail the packages out until Monday afternoon due to the “issue” being under investigation to try to see who neglected to mail the packages. I was under the impression that the postal service in order to make this situation “right” would at very least “priority mail” my packages for me. Today I found out that they sent them regular “first class” (thanks for making it right). I also asked why it is taking SOOOO long for packages to arrive in certain states and not in others. For example. It has been taking two weeks for packages to get to Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, and New York but a mailed one package to California and they received it 4 days later????????

This was the explanation I received. There are daily flights from Greenville, SC to California with the mail service. All mail going to California is shipped to California within one day. They have a faster moving pace than other places. The explantation was that places in PA, OH, there are many small towns with many different post offices. The post master told me today that an average letter to some locations in the north could go through 4-6 different post office before it arrives in city it supposed to go to. This makes first class mail run 5-10 and priority 3-7. I was totally blown away. She stated that the mail is still driven and not flown to most of these locations and that different things can happen depending on the time of day the shipments are received at all locations. This would explain why when my brother lived in Texas it often took him up to 3 weeks to receive packages, letters, etc. from us.

I want to apologize to all my clients for such delay. As I stated at the end of last week I have made the decision to go with UPS from now on (with much regret of having to do this) but I feel in order to get the packages out in a timely manner this is necessary.

There was a shipment from the post office that went out Monday and Today. (they gave me a $15.00 credit for all my trouble) LOL! So I made the last shipments today! If you have an outstanding package, letter, etc that was due in the past 3 weeks please give until next Wednesday to receive it. If you have not received your package by next Wednesday I will be refunding money as well as any other provisions that need to be made (at the expense of our wonderful postal service).

Again,I apologize for such a disaster. I only wish I had spoken with the post master earlier because since January, I have had a ton of trouble with deliveries as well as many damaged packages returned.

Please know that it is my goal to make shopping with Allie B. Originals pleasant for everyone. Thank you so much for your patience and please notify me if you have not received your shipments or letters (we mail bulk everything at one time) by next Wednesday June 29, 2011.

Allison Bagwell

Monday, August 22, 2011

Yesterdays gratitude June 17, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 3:45 pm

1. I am so thankful for my sweet boys! Bleeze makes my day with endless stories.

2. for summer….. the boys played outside all day long!

3. work….. we have work…..

4. peace that surpasses all understanding.

5. funny people at redlights….

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Daily Gratitude June 16, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 3:21 am

1. Grateful for uplifting blogs

2. Faith

3. Hope

4. Love

5. Peace

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Today’s attitude of gratitude……. June 15, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 1:56 am

Today I am so grateful for

1. Sweet moments with Bleeze.

2. Walks with my hubby…..

3. Movie time with the boys this afternoon

4. Super-natural peace

5. The cute little cars paper towels…..really the pure excitement that came over Bleeze little face when he saw them.

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Happy Birthday Bleeze! June 14, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 2:01 pm

Yesterday was my sweet Bleeze bday! We had a fun day of celebrating him. He is such a joy to us! He had so much fun at his party last night! A huge thanks to those who came out and helped us celebrate him! You can read our family journal here!

http://family.cozi.com/private-88be9cf46bb568353e5e2e9c2265e648/

I played with all Bleeze new toys when I got home last night so I was exhausted and did not get to share my attitude of gratitude. So here it is….



1. So thankful for my gift of Bleeze! he is precious!

2. Grateful for friends and family

3. Nabisco chocolate pinwheel cookies…….yummy….

4. Our new air conditioning system in our house (that we totally bartered……bartering ROCKS)

5. air conditioning in my car……boy it’s hot!

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found a new “love” June 13, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 2:17 pm

For those of you who know me, you know that I LOVE cosmetics. I have been obsessed since a little girl with makeup and jewelry….. LOL! Some people used to refer to me as the little Jezebel. LOL! I worked in the cosmetic industry for years and I have my favorites which are a wide variety of different products. For the past 2 years for my foundation I have been a MAC girl! I LOVE their products. However, last Friday I ran out of foundation. I had to run to the mall to exchange some shorts…(can I just say… I HATE MATERNITY CLOTHES) anyway that is a different blog for a different time. LOL! So, that entire pregnancy mind loss kicked in and I completely forgot to pick up some foundation. So….. I had a wedding to go to and 1 hour to get ready. I FREAKED out! It was quicker just to run to Wal-Mart so I ran in and tried to decide what to buy. I purchased this product.

http://www.rimmellondon.com/us/en/products/lasting-finish-25-hour-foundation/



I did not want to spend much because it was my plan to head back to the mall on Tuesday to pick up some MAC foundation. WRONG. I absolutely love this product. It really does last and has great coverage. I had went to a wedding where I was very HOT and even sat outside for a good bit, my makeup looked as good when I got home as when I left 7 hours later with NO touch ups! I paid like $7 for this product versus the $30 for MAC! I have found a new LOVE!

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In process June 13, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 1:49 pm

Recently, I joined the website www.cozi.com it is a family organizer and is pretty neat. One of the features is the ability to journal your families daily activities. I love it, so basically this blog is going to be my venting blog or my more “personal” blog. I entitled this blog “in process”, it seems that everything that in my life right now is “in process”. I know that nothing in life is certain, but I am the type of person that likes to have things “for sure”. I swear that I haven’t prayed for patience. (My mom always said pray for strength not patience, if you pray for patience God will give you the test to teach you patience” LOL!!!!)

It seems that lately I have had so much going on and through my mind that at times it can be overwhelming. Recently I talked with my doctor about some concerns that my brain was in overload. He assured me that much of it had to do with being pregnant and is actually a form of Alzheimer’s called pregnancy induced Alzheimer’s that normally affects women, (who they so kindly like to put it) are of advanced maternal age. LOL! It is really scary if you think about it. It causes your brain to be on overload and therefore you forget many things. Just normally day-to-day task… I freaked at first becoming afraid I was going to forget my children or husband he assured me it usually only effects the small things like forgetting things on list, going certain places, mailing items, going to the bank forgetting to write down things, going places and forgetting why you are there, or why you went into a certain room. It has been crazy! Not to mention on top of all of this I have had lots of issues with my business and my accounts being hacked both personal and business. NOT COOL!

Yesterday afternoon was one of those times when I had time to think about things. I have found that often when you have time to think about things it goes one of two ways…… all the positives in your life…..or all the negatives. Sad to say…… yesterday mine seemed to be the negative…NOT COOL AGAIN! As I was making my sweet boys birthday cake my mind began to reflect on the past and acts of betrayal that had been sent my way…..then… as always the holy spirit began to prick my heart…..my betrayal was nothing compared to what Christ experienced and still experiences and I became really grateful. You know no matter how difficult things are what trial you are going through things could always be worse. I began to see how selfish I was being and how negative I was being and I quickly repented and began to count my blessings…..so that is what I am going to do now….show my attitude of gratitude and then I am honestly going to try to go back to my attitude of gratitude daily blogs of the of my top blessings of the day! So here are yesterdays.

So grateful for….

1. Time with my sweet family at breakfast this morning at Cracker Barrel….they are precious!

2. fun times on the iPad with talking tom cat…..hearing my boys giggle is priceless.

3. the fact that I can feel life growing inside me….nothing like the flutters of my sweet unborn baby.

4. the ability to make my sweet boy’s birthday cake.

5. movie afternoons with my hubby!

6. the Holy Spirit for prompting me to realize my sin…….



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geez…..such a slacker June 7, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 3:09 pm

It is so sad that the very last blog I did was on Usama dying….sorry!



What is going on with the Bagwell Bunch…..

We just enjoyed a week at the beach. It is one of our favorite places to go down at Harbor Island. We enjoyed Hunting Island and Beaufort as always. The boys love doing “nothing”! I have to admit that I did too! The house we stayed had porches on every level and I LOVED just sitting out and enjoying the breeze. In the afternoon when the tide would come in we would usually get to see an alligator or two and the boys really loved that! I swear that one day that is probably where Tommy and I will retire. We love the low-country. We love everything about it from the “true” southern heritiage to the oak trees covered in Spanish moss. It is just wonderful! I can’t wait to go back.

Summer has arrived and we are enjoying time on the lake once again! Our boys love just riding the boat, tubing, and jumping off the big rocks into the lake (giving me a heart attack). We enjoyed Memorial Day and then a wonderful day trip on Sunday with my parents! It is nice just to relax and get away.

Here is an update on each of us…..

Tommy…busy as ever…working like a dog everyday! I am really blessed to have such a hard working man! He is a great provider and I love him for it!

Eli, he is glad that is Summer. Missing our neighbor Cameron is in gone for the summer but having fun none the less! He is going to some drama and summer camps this summer so that should keep him busy. He is getting bigger by the minute I swear! He is taller than me now ( I know, it doesn’t take much) He is growing up to fast! It hit me the other day that we only have 2 1/2 years and he will be able to get a driver’s permit…..YIKES!

Bleeze…he is loving playing cars as always. He had become a less fearful swimmer and is doing great! He is so precious! He always makes me laugh! He is so funny! He keeps the entire house laughing. For example the other night we were doing “opposites” Tommy, Eli, and myself were constantly calling out a word. He was doing GREAT! You know….deep/Shallow, hot/cold, summer/winter, etc. We must have done a million. Tommy looks at him and says, “Bleeze what is the opposite of Heaven?” he says, “BEEP” like when you “beep” out a “bad” word. We laughed for 10 minutes straight. He just continued to eat! LOL!

Sad to say but from all our water adventures both boys were at the doctor yesterday with swimmers ear. Both are on antibiotics and drops. Eli already seems some better but Bleeze is still complaining! (all night, actually). Tommy took them last night and purchased them some ear plugs so that they can continue to swim. Poor babies!

Me? I am doing okay. I think I am living up to Tommy’s nickname for me “OAP”, Old and Pregnant. I have had so many physical issues this time…nothings serious…You know…nausea, indigestion, rash, etc. I know it is all going to be worth it soon! We should find out in the next few weeks if we are having a baby boy or baby girl. One thing that we haven’t solved is naming this baby. With the boys we knew right away what we wanted to name it but with this one….little more tricky.

I am having to regroup my business. Just got through with some conference calls with some major issues we’ve had. I had some account hacking done that has been really a mess and has really disrupted the flow of business. Hopefully it is all somewhat solved and we can get back to business as usual. So big apologies to all who have been affected by such a mess!

So for now, I am going to go and enjoy some time with my boys and a friend at the pool then back to work this afternoon! I hope you all have a great day, and once again I will try my best to blog better!








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my thoughts on a previous facebook thread on the death of Usama’s death. May 3, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 11:58 pm



I had decided that it was not really worth me saying anything because I believe that everyone here is entitled to their personal opinions on this subject and in reality we all should have better things to do than to argue or throw out insults to each other on Facebook.

I think that EVERYONE here is in agreement that they are happy that Usama has been killed. However, I totally agree with Robbie…. It is VERY SAD if Usama met Hitler and made those statements…sad but true ( commenting on shane’s original status). I believe… (I may be totally wrong here) but I think that Robbie and Tommy both are simply saying…(can’t believe they are in agreement) LOL! While we as human beings are thrilled that he is gone, no longer a threat, we as Christians should be very sad that someone else has made into hell. Now, Tracy, Proverbs 11:10, is taken a little out of context here. This scripture is about the fall of Assyria… it is in reference to the sense of community, integrity, and gossip (the sins of this group of people who had defiled Jewish customs. This is referring to the tongue and behaviors…not death 1. When was it written. 2. Who was it written by 3. Who it was written too at that time 4. How does it apply to today.

I think if we are going to celebrate anything here we should celebrate justice…not death. We cannot rejoice in the death of the wicked any more than does God (Ezek. 18:23). We may take satisfaction that temporal justice has been served, but Christians should display a sober restraint. When Christ returns, bringing infinite justice in his wake, his saints will rejoice in the death of his enemies. For now, however, he calls us to pray for our enemies, even for those who persecute us (Matt. 5:44). This is the day of salvation, calling sinners to repent and believe the gospel. We may delight in the temporal justice shown to evildoers, but leave the final justice to God.

our response should be to use this opportunity to display to our non-Christian neighbors the radical contrasts between the biblical view of God, humanity, redemption, and the last judgment, and the religious and secularist distortions and even those that profess to be Christians.

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well…. once again… I let a month get away from me….. May 3, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 2:46 pm

Once again I have let a month get away from me without blogging. Let’s see….. what has happened….

1. I turned another year older. LOL! I am living up to my new nickname given to me by my “sweet” hubby….OAP (old and pregnant).

2. We had a wonderful Easter with family…fun hunting eggs, confetti eggs, yummy food and fun!

3. Enjoyed the symphony….

Basically, I have been busy and tired. This pregancy has worn me out. I have been very tired this time and feeling icky! I think I am getting somewhat better now though and hoping to get a burst of energy! I have taken more naps in the past 4 weeks then in my entire life. I am NOT one to nap…but good Lord, sleep is such a blessing right now. LOL!

I was able to be a party of Coffee Connection with Grace last night. It was great as always, such a wonderful, warm group of ladies. I always enjoy it!

Oh… another bit of news. I decided to start back up the cake business! I have had SOOOO many request for cakes so I thought why not.. Calling the new business Allie Cakes! I am going to continue with Allie B. Originals so don’t think it is going anywhere!

Going to the doctor tomorrow for our first ultrasound….excited to see our little nugget….

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Ramblings…. April 7, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 9:12 pm

This blog is basically going to be made up of basic ramblings…LOL!

I did not realize how long it has been since my last blog. Time just flies by! I have been so busy setting up Allie B. Originals. I really appreciate all the support I have received from family and friends of the past few weeks. If there is one thing that I have learned over the past year, you really find out who your friends are. Who supports you, loves you, etc. It has been a real eye opener.

I guess the biggest news is the fact that I have learned that I am going to be a mommy again. I am so excited! I do have to admit that I am very nervous with having had three miscarriages in the past. This total surprise is a blessing, I think a ton of people have wondered why I told already but I want people who love and know me to know so they can pray for me. I feel so old to be having a baby, but that is okay. God has a plan and hey…. I am not as old as Abraham and Sarah! LOL!!! My boys are 6 years and 6 months apart and this baby will be 6 years and 6 months difference with Bleeze. Eli will turn 13 right after it is born! So crazy! For those of you who know me, know that I have always loved kiddos and wanted a ton of them. I had decided a while back that I was done and too old for more kiddos but I am so glad that God has another plan! So all my faithful readers please pray that all goes well and we get a healthy baby boy or girl in November!

Both boys are doing great and really excited about summer and the baby! They are calling it “nugget” and can’t wait for homeschool to be over and the pool to open. The have spring fever like crazy!

Today, was marvelous! My bestie treated me to a wonderful, relaxing facial at Spa 360 at Sports Club! It was awesome! I was able to just relax and that was exactly what I needed!

Tomorrow we are headed to Greenville Memorial to the heart institute for a tour for homeschool. I think it will be interesting. Then it is my bday weekend. No big plans, just plan to chill and take it easy.

Don’t forget to shop www.allieboriginals.com where 50% of all our profits go to a non-profit organization and currently it is Mother’s Fighting for Others!

Hoping to keep up my blog….

Signing off for now….

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Weekend Wrap-Up March 21, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 2:38 pm

The past weekend went by really fast! I was kinda blown away at how quickly it seems to be over. Especially since we did not do anything over the top nor were we really busy.

Early Friday afternoon started our weekend. Tommy finished up work early and spent some time in the back yard with Bleeze. The put out all the tball garb Bleeze got from Santa and Bleeze played ALL afternoon. Eli went with me to the mall and to Old Navy! I am so thankful for the 30% off coupon and that 5% of my sale with to the juvenile Diabetes Association. I got the boys a few things because with this warm weather I have discovered how much Eli has truly grown. His shorts are all too short and some are too tight. He is now taller than me (doesn’t take much) but nevertheless, my baby boy is bigger than me.



Friday night we had a great night sitting in the backyard as a family and eating our pizza and wings! So much fun! I am thrilled that it is now spring and we will be able to do that more often. I hope to really make my backyard look great in the next few weeks. It has always been a dream of mine to have a “sanctuary” so to speak in my backyard.

Saturday was filled with outdoor play for the boys and work for me. I am really excited at how my business is taking off and ever grateful to all of those who have been instrumental in helping me! Saturday night we went to Charlotte to celebrate my sweet sister-in-laws birthday! We enjoyed a marvelous dinner at Foskoskies! It was so good. Tommy and I both could have licked our plates clean…not to mention both boys cleaned their plates (that is a miracle for Bleeze). If you live in or in the Charlotte, NC area you should go eat there. www.foskoskies.com.





We then enjoyed dessert and coffee back at my parents house where I snapped a few cute pics of the kids playing. Bleeze and Makenzie were playing “old school” trying on shoes. I thought it was hilarious! Bleeze was the salesman and Makenzie was the princess buying shoes at Wal-Mart. LOL!









Sunday was nice and relaxing. We went to church. I just love to hear the sermons at Grace church! They are always so enlightening and uplifting. We then went to our normal “sunday lunch” place as the boys call it. Bojangles! Not the healthiest place but is very yummy. I spent the rest of the afternoon helping Tommy set up his new iPad and reading the controversy over Rob Bell’s new book “Love Wins” which I purchased to read and review for myself.

To end the weekend we enjoyed small group and snuggle time with the boys All in all… GREAT WEEKEND!

Looking forward to all this week has to bring, knowing it is going to be filled with awesome!

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Cars…. and worn out knees… March 19, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 2:07 pm





My sweet Bleeze being the five-year old boy he is has an obsession with cars. He LOVES them and he loves to play with them. I get so tickled, he actually pretends they are people at times and talks them. I love to listen to him play. He loves to go to car shows. He went to his first car show when he was two and he loved it more than Eli. He knows makes and models and his favorite is the FORD MUSTANG! He spots them everywhere we go! This is just a “few” we literally have hundreds of cars. We have “inside” cars and cars for just playing “outside”.



He used to say that he wanted to be a “wrecker” driver but now he wants to own a factory that makes “wreckers”! LOL! At a local flea market he purchased some pre-owned HotWheels out of a basket. They had them 4 for $1.00. We let him pick 8. It took 20 minutes for him to go through each one. This week I took him to Target because they have HotWheels for .79 each and it thirty minutes for him to pick 3! He enjoyed going to the eye doctor with my mom this week because he sat and looked at a “Mechanics Today” magazine. Not to mention his love for the Disney movie CARS! He loves all of it!

At Christmas time he was in desperate need of jeans. He kinda got overloaded because I told several people that was a need at the time. In the past few weeks, I have noticed that several pairs have holes in the left knee. I have gotten really upset because so many of his jeans are messed up! This week it hit me….it is from playing cars. Here is a picture of him this morning. He puts that left knee down on the floor, ground etc. while he plays. I am not exaggerating when I say he plays cars for hours at a time!

I decided not to be mad about the holes in his pants. I mean, I can purchase more pants, after all, he is only this size for a very short amount of time. While, I really don’t think his love for cars will fade, the love for “playing” cars will! He will eventually graduate to “playing” cars by driving them, working on and washing them , maybe even be a famous Nascar race car driver. Who knows, he may own that factory one day that “makes wreckers”,but for now, I am going to cherish every moment of his “left knee” car playing!!

I have to share this picture from yesterday! Bleeze was play cars on the end table in our living room. If you notice, my camera is sitting there. I picked it up to move it and he said, “Can you leave it there, it is my “security camera” in my parking lot! PRECIOUS!!!!!



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Name Brand Favorites… March 19, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 1:14 pm

My best friend has been blogging for years also and she often blogs her “favorite” things of the week. Reading her blog the other day I started to think about things that I like and dislike at the moment. One thing that came to my mind is purchasing generic products. I am all for saving money! For those of you who know me, I am all about finding a sale and a bargain! Got a huge savings at Old Navy yesterday on some spring clothes for the boys and it made my day! It is an actual “high” for me to get good deals. However, I am a FIRM believer that you “get what you pay for”. My hubby made a good point the other day that he would rather have fewer items as long as what he purchase was good quality he was willing to pay more.

Well, there are a few items that I will pay the full price for, items that I REFUSE to buy generic. Now, don’t get me wrong, if we were starving to death or did not have the money to buy them, I would buy generic, but if the funds are there, I will not purchase certain things “off brand” unless it is a dire financial emergency.

Here are a few examples

Campbell’s Soup….. not only can I tell the difference, but I have found that when trying to save money and I purchase an”off-brand” or store brand my hubby and kids notice something different about the texture of casseroles, etc. So that is one example of my weird obsession.

Laundry detergent! Now this is a must…. I have two boys who are ever so messy! I have found that in order to save clothes and get out horrible stains either Tide or Gain is the ONLY way to go. I have purchased less expensive detergents but I am never satisfied. It is well worth the extra money to me to know that the numerous stained up items I wash each week are always going to come clean!



Crest toothpaste. Now I have tried NUMEROUS different brands of toothpaste. Not just because of price point but because I have an obsession with oral hygiene. I have found that any product crest puts out their holds up to their advertisement and I am happy and cavity free! Not to mention…. I like the taste!

Next is TOILET PAPER ! Scott is my preferred brand….now, I know this is a less expensive brand but…. it is the best for the buck! I used to HATE scott toilet paper, but it really does last longer and with three guys in the house! , it is a must! My hubby and I used to actually argue over it but in the past 15 years I have come to realize, he is right so ..Scott it is! I can buy a bulk pack of Scott toilet paper and it last a month. I buy other brands and I have to buy it weekly. In the past year I have come to find that I like to purchase the paper towels also!



Another one is Now, I know…this stuff is really gross…no matter how you look at it but…. even as a kid I could tell a difference when my mother purchase a store or off brand in any of this disgusting junk. My sweet boys hate it therefore I don’t have to buy it! LOL! But I always think of my love for it as a child when I think of purchasing name brand!

Now, for you and the “south’ you are totally going to get the next one…. It is mayo…. You cannot purchase anything but

DUKES! It is the best. When I was a child and we lived up “north” we had it shipped to us! It is great! As we say here in the south…”We eat our salad dressing on our salad, not our sandwich”



These three cleaning products are a must. I have purchased all the “generic” and store brands and none of them compare to my love for these three products. I know some people and even myself have issues with the “environment” issues of each of these products but I do not feel my house is clean unless I use these. (I know, I am sick) LOL!

So for years now I have struggled with jeans! I am short and I just have e a horrible time. I even argued with my bestie once that I would NEVER find jeans to fit me the want I wanted. Two years ago I went with her advice and tried on a pair of jeans at Buckle (my favorite store…thanks Candy). I have never been the same…now I know… some of you say, they are too expensive. But as I stated before….YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR (not to mention, they have layaway). You can also find wonderful savings online or the particular brands website. I for one , love the fact that Buckle has free alterations and not only can I get the perfect fit but the perfect length. I even got my “tight wad” hubby wearing jeans from there. I love the BKU brands, Big Star, and my favorite is the MEK!

Okay…so now you all see some of my sick obsessions, I have a ton more from cosmetics, etc. to underwear but this blog is getting LONG. Anyway, I guess I was thinking about all this and “bringing it back to the gospel” as they say. It made me think…. how glad I am that God does not have “favorite” brands or even things! We would all be in trouble. What if God chose who he loved by our size, quality, color, texture, shape, how hard we work (or didn’t work), how much we cost, how well we cleaned, how we tasted, what we ate, where we lived, vacationed, etc.? We would all be screwed!

No… instead, God loves us just as we are. No matter our “off-brand” flaws. In his eyes, we are all name brand! Thank goodness!

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recap of the past few days…. March 16, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 3:25 am

I had a rather busy weekend and with the time change I am really tired.

My weekend fun started on Thursday. Tommy purchased me Sugarland tickets for Valentines day and thanks to our good buddy Shane we had some awesome seats! Thanks Shane! The concert was so good. I just love Sugarland! It was quiet the show. I enjoyed every minute of it! I especially loved the dress that Jennifer wore! I so want it. I asked on twitter and facebook who the designer was but had no luck in finding out.

Friday night we went to see our precious friend Hannah in her school play. She was amazing and I was so proud of her! She ROCKS! The boys and I enjoyed having dinner and hanging out with Candy and Hannah. It was such fun!







Saturday was rather crazy. Errands in the morning and then we had my sister0-in-law Jessica’s baby shower. We just can’t wait to meet Baby Tanner. The shower was nice and it was fun to see all the cute little baby items.



Sunday we had clock troubles with the time change and it really turned into a blessing. A electrical cord in Eli’s room caught on fire, so thank God we missed church or our house would have burned completely down. We enjoyed a yummy lunch with my parents at the Chinese Buffet and then headed to a sweet ladies funeral. It was so nice to hear of all the wonderful stories. It made me wonder what people would say about me if I died.. After the funeral Tommy enjoyed two of our favorite things…coke Icee and Buckle ! LOL!! Got me some cute things!

I have been totally consumed with the earthquake in Japan. It is so sad. I pray for peace for them all very soon.

I am really excited because our my new website is up and going www.allieboriginals.com.

I hope to have tons of business come my way so if you are a faithful reader then spread the word!

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To God Be the Glory March 10, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 4:05 am

Whew…today has been such a long day! I am worn out. Even though today was long it was a good day! I had an awesome Bible study this morning, several appointments, got my hair cut and colored, ran errands, and managed to do some work this evening while watching American Idol. I really do not have a lot to share today but I did want to share something that was really awesome.

We have been singing an old Hymn that was changed up a bit through our worship leader at church. They posted the song and chords on Facebook today. I love this old song and I must have listened to it a zillion times while checking emails. I have posted the song along with the CaringBridge page that I read while reading it. This truly was the best part of the day! Hope it blesses you all.

Jennifer Fortner
•What a great day!! I got wonderful news in Charleston. My liver tolerated the radiation treatment well, I still have perfect liver function and the best news is that the radiation is really working. He said there was significant shrinking of tumors on my liver. Both doctors were very pleased at how well I am doing and had nothing but positive things to say. It was indeed a very peaceful, great day and we walked away filled with so much HOPE!
Thank you for all of your faithful prayers for me! One of the doctors said to keep on doing whatever it is I’m doing because it’s working. So keep praying, believing and trusting.
Love,
Jennifer


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so thankful for dirty dishes in the kitchen sink… March 7, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 6:31 pm





Today I am so thankful for dirty dishes in the kitchen sink. Now that is something you don’t hear everyday. However, I remember once as a little girl I went to church with my grandmother. It was one of those old-time services when they used to have “testimony” service. You know…where everyone would stand up and say, “I want to thank the Lord, for all he’s done for me” . I kinda miss those services in a way. It showed what you were thankful for and what others were thankful and could sometimes be a great reminder of things you take for granted.

I remember that my sweet granny stood up and thanked the Lord for her dirty dishes in the kitchen sink. I remember even as a child, I thought..”Why in the world would you be thankful for that?”. Then I listened to her sweet testimony. She told how everyday when she washed her dishes she would have prayer time with God. Sometimes she would pray, but mostly she would listen to God and what he had to say to her. I thought…”boy, I bet over the years, she has had a lot to pray about.” Her mother died when she was 6 leaving her the oldest of her siblings and she cared for them on her own while her father worked away up the hills of Tennessee, she married a total loser and had 12 children, she raised all them by herself, worked in the cotton mill, buried several of her children as infants and adults, help raise many of her grandchildren, survived the depression and so much more. The list goes on and on, yet she was probably the most genuine person that has ever been in my life. She was a Godly woman and she loved the Lord so much. She left behind a great legacy…. all of her children were believers in Christ. Our family tree is full of children/grandchildren serving God in ministry, great singers, and much more.

She taught me not to be fearful of many things such as thunderstorms and harm. She often told me “as long as you got the Lord, you are fine” that is true…”as long as you got the Lord, you are fine”. She gave countless tein certain areas thatstimonies of how God protected her physically, financially, etc. over the years and her truth in her stories were enough to establish a great faith in me that formed foundations that cannot and will not be shaken. I am so thankful for that.

Back in August my dishwasher broke, I have not had it fixed. The other day, I thought, “Why haven’t I just had the stupid thing fixed or even buy another one” I even had some extra cash that would have done just that two weeks ago but I decided to spend it elsewhere. This morning, it hit me like a ton of bricks. It easy for me to get my dishwasher fixed, load it up and be on my merry way. However, over the past few months I have learned first hand to be “so thankful for dirty dishes in the kitchen sink” . I have found myself praying and talking to God during those times of cleaning my dishes. It is like a great kids church object lesson. As I clean the dishes, God is cleaning my thoughts, feelings, and revealing to me insight on my life, my children’s lives, and so much more. I am so thankful that I have seen the testimony of my precious grandmother become relevant in my life today. It once again shows how living a life committed to Christ can be rewarding even after you have gone on to be with Jesus. How the prayers and testimonies you have today will affect the lives of people tomorrow. My hope is that my children will be able to say one day that they are “so thankful for dirty dishes in the kitchen sink”.


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So….these are the Days of Our Lives…. March 7, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 3:13 pm

The past week was sorta crazy! We had a lot going on as well as the boys have been feeling under the weather again. I will hit some highlights of my week though. I really enjoyed breakfast with my precious friend Candy this week. We were excited to be host a baby shower for our sweet friend Kelli. We never really need a reason t to get together and eat….but hey….we made one. We had to do some planning! LOL! However, that afternoon we found out Kelli was in the hospital. boo…. The good thing is her sweet baby boy will get to be at the shower when we get to have it. LOL! Saying lots of prayers for Kelli and baby Grayson.

Wednesday morning I so enjoyed getting to go back to Bible study. For those of you Grace ladies who are not involved in the Ezer study. Please take it in the fall. It is amazing and will totally rock your world and change your life forever. I am in a group with such a great group of ladies.

Wednesday afternoon Eli started getting sick again. Fever, chills, and sneezing his head off. Poor fellow. By Wednesday night Bleeze was crying with an earache….So that bring Thursday morning…..trip to the doctor…..

At the doctor they determined both boys had ear infections and that Eli has a sinus infection as well. The doctor feels both boys are experiencing secondary infections from having the flu in January. GREAT! I could kick myself this year. I have always be very persistent in giving my boys probiotics. I swear by them. This winter, I have slacked off and they have been sick more this winter than in the past 3 years. I could just kick myself. So today… I am off to purchase my sweet boys new probiotics. I got to get them healthy.

Thursday night was so fun. I headed out for GNO (girls night out) I swear every time I say GNO I think of two things 1. The gynecologist (dont ask me why?) 2. Miley Cyrus song GNO….neither thought is pleasant. However , my GNO was great! We enjoyed a yummy meal at Purple International Bistro and Sushi. So good and I loved the atmosphere and most of all the company. I will be forever thankful to Candy for introducing me to such a wonderful group of ladies. They are amazing.

Friday the boys begged to go see Nanny Mary and she consented for a sleepover, so Tommy and I took advantage of the opportunity to have a “date night” we went downtown Greenville and enjoyed Sassafras. We eat out a LOT and by far it was some of the best food I have had in a LONG time. It was delicious! I love the atmosphere there also. After dinner we went to see the movie “Adjustment Bureau”….well.. let me just say… it wasn’t bad….but it wasn’t great… I could have waited and watched on PPV.

Saturday morning Candy and I went to visit Kelli in the hospital. Poor thing, she has been up there for days. Praying for her today as she has amnio and hopefully has her little boy tomorrow if all is well. (Kelli if you have to stay longer… I have you a ton of magazines on the way).

Saturday afternoon the boys and I went to the mall. I treated myself to two of my favorite things….Buckle and Victoria’s Secret. ahhhh….nothing like retail therapy….

Saturday night we took the boys to fun gym. They love to go there. While they had fun with their best buddies, Tommy and I did some errand running. Which included taking back my fabulous Michael Kors watch. It broke!!! I just got a credit and went on my merry way…boo…

After picking the boys up and getting them ready for bed..Eli decides to get sick again….. After going to bed he was having a horrible time swallowing and catching his breath to the point he vomited. I am not sure if he over did it at fun gym.. or what….but he was sick again all day yesterday with a horrible sore throat and low-grade fever. I am allowing him to sleep today in hopes that he feels better. If not it looks like we are headed back to the doctor. …

Sunday… I played the nurse to sick Eli….poor fellow. He can barely swallow. He is on an antibiotic so I am not sure what is going on. I also was inspired by Candy to bargain grocery shop. I sat for 2 hours and compared sale ads and coupons for the best deals. My research took me to two different stores. Ingles and Publix. I went last night at 8pm. I had not bought groceries in two weeks and with two growing boys we go through a lot of food. We were out of everything. I spent $238.85 and saved $128.27. That is including a lot of health and beauty and cleaning products so all in all… I think I did very well. Tommy was pleased because in the past when we have been low on everything….the bill has been close to $400.00 so no complaints last night. Whoot…whoot!

There you have it….the past few days of my life. LOL! Today…. hopefully is going to be a great day! The sun is shining and I am hopeful. I made a decision this past weekend. In the past, I used to blog about all sorts of things from religion, politics, current events, etc. I kinda jumped off the band wagon because of being busy and people always having something to say (good and negative) about my blogs. I decided this weekend that it time for me to start back blogging my thoughts and feelings…not that my readers really care, but it makes me feel better…”the truth sets you free”. I have had many people say, “I wish you blogged the way you used too” So here’s to you guys….be watching for more “thoughtful” blogging than just my daily life. I can’t promise you that it is always going to be what you want to hear…but I can promise you…it is how I feel…so until next time…. Love to all!

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Slack again… February 28, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 12:32 pm

Well, once again, I have been a slacker. LOL!!! I have been delayed in the blogging…. So here it goes…

What’s new?

Not much, I have been very busy with Allie B. Originals. I am so thankful for business. I also have been very busy with the boys and just life itself. Everyone knows how it gets. I have a million thoughts in my mind that I want to blog about. I am hoping to eventually get myself structured enough to complete some of these blogs. I have actually started making a list. I think that for now though….going to show some gratitude and be on my way to another busy day. Today is cleaning day and it has to get done because living with the three pigs… the house stays a mess! Hope everyone has a great week ahead!!!

Gratitude

So thankful for today….. a gift from God.

So thankful for my hubby and boys…..

So thankful for true friendship

So thankful for the sweet moments I had with my sweet niece Makenzie last week.

So thankful for dinner out with Tommy Saturday night.

So thankful for a wonderful sermon at church yesterday.

So thankful for my business taking off

So thankful for the many blessings I see and those that I do not see…(praying God daily reveals to me)

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Crazy Day Yesterday February 16, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 6:35 pm

Yesterday was crazy! Tommy and Eli spent the day in Charolotte and Bleeze and I spent the day in Asheville. So funny! Yesterday I spent the day running tons of errands! I have been really busy working on new designs for Allie B. Originals!! Can’t wait to share some of them with everyone.

Today is no less crazy! I have been running like a chicken with its head cut off. Just thought I would take a minute to clear my head by writing a quickpress blog! Hope everyone is having a great day!

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Until I figure it all out…. February 15, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 12:25 pm

So, until I figure everything out on transferring blogs. Just going to share a little bit. We had a hard two week of sickness in our house. Both boys had the flu and Bleeze turned into ear and sinus infections but now he is all better. Thank the LORD!

Sunday night I went to church with my entire family. We went to see Lee University Campus Choir. So good! We enjoyed dinner afterwards.

Yesterday was Valentine’s Day! The day for love. Tommy was really good to me this year. Tickets to see Sugarland (very good tickets), Roses, chocolates, and a wonderful dinner at City Range. I showered him with different cards all day long. Some funny, some serious! However, all about LOVE! The boys loved their little treats too! I had planned on having them a Valentine Party but with the flu…it was impossible.

So for now, I am going to get ready. I have to go to Asheville today for the business! Hope everyone has a great day!

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Weekend Wrap-Up March 21, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 2:38 pm

The past weekend went by really fast! I was kinda blown away at how quickly it seems to be over. Especially since we did not do anything over the top nor were we really busy.

Early Friday afternoon started our weekend. Tommy finished up work early and spent some time in the back yard with Bleeze. The put out all the tball garb Bleeze got from Santa and Bleeze played ALL afternoon. Eli went with me to the mall and to Old Navy! I am so thankful for the 30% off coupon and that 5% of my sale with to the juvenile Diabetes Association. I got the boys a few things because with this warm weather I have discovered how much Eli has truly grown. His shorts are all too short and some are too tight. He is now taller than me (doesn’t take much) but nevertheless, my baby boy is bigger than me.



Friday night we had a great night sitting in the backyard as a family and eating our pizza and wings! So much fun! I am thrilled that it is now spring and we will be able to do that more often. I hope to really make my backyard look great in the next few weeks. It has always been a dream of mine to have a “sanctuary” so to speak in my backyard.

Saturday was filled with outdoor play for the boys and work for me. I am really excited at how my business is taking off and ever grateful to all of those who have been instrumental in helping me! Saturday night we went to Charlotte to celebrate my sweet sister-in-laws birthday! We enjoyed a marvelous dinner at Foskoskies! It was so good. Tommy and I both could have licked our plates clean…not to mention both boys cleaned their plates (that is a miracle for Bleeze). If you live in or in the Charlotte, NC area you should go eat there. www.foskoskies.com.





We then enjoyed dessert and coffee back at my parents house where I snapped a few cute pics of the kids playing. Bleeze and Makenzie were playing “old school” trying on shoes. I thought it was hilarious! Bleeze was the salesman and Makenzie was the princess buying shoes at Wal-Mart. LOL!









Sunday was nice and relaxing. We went to church. I just love to hear the sermons at Grace church! They are always so enlightening and uplifting. We then went to our normal “sunday lunch” place as the boys call it. Bojangles! Not the healthiest place but is very yummy. I spent the rest of the afternoon helping Tommy set up his new iPad and reading the controversy over Rob Bell’s new book “Love Wins” which I purchased to read and review for myself.

To end the weekend we enjoyed small group and snuggle time with the boys All in all… GREAT WEEKEND!

Looking forward to all this week has to bring, knowing it is going to be filled with awesome!

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Cars…. and worn out knees… March 19, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 2:07 pm





My sweet Bleeze being the five-year old boy he is has an obsession with cars. He LOVES them and he loves to play with them. I get so tickled, he actually pretends they are people at times and talks them. I love to listen to him play. He loves to go to car shows. He went to his first car show when he was two and he loved it more than Eli. He knows makes and models and his favorite is the FORD MUSTANG! He spots them everywhere we go! This is just a “few” we literally have hundreds of cars. We have “inside” cars and cars for just playing “outside”.



He used to say that he wanted to be a “wrecker” driver but now he wants to own a factory that makes “wreckers”! LOL! At a local flea market he purchased some pre-owned HotWheels out of a basket. They had them 4 for $1.00. We let him pick 8. It took 20 minutes for him to go through each one. This week I took him to Target because they have HotWheels for .79 each and it thirty minutes for him to pick 3! He enjoyed going to the eye doctor with my mom this week because he sat and looked at a “Mechanics Today” magazine. Not to mention his love for the Disney movie CARS! He loves all of it!

At Christmas time he was in desperate need of jeans. He kinda got overloaded because I told several people that was a need at the time. In the past few weeks, I have noticed that several pairs have holes in the left knee. I have gotten really upset because so many of his jeans are messed up! This week it hit me….it is from playing cars. Here is a picture of him this morning. He puts that left knee down on the floor, ground etc. while he plays. I am not exaggerating when I say he plays cars for hours at a time!

I decided not to be mad about the holes in his pants. I mean, I can purchase more pants, after all, he is only this size for a very short amount of time. While, I really don’t think his love for cars will fade, the love for “playing” cars will! He will eventually graduate to “playing” cars by driving them, working on and washing them , maybe even be a famous Nascar race car driver. Who knows, he may own that factory one day that “makes wreckers”,but for now, I am going to cherish every moment of his “left knee” car playing!!

I have to share this picture from yesterday! Bleeze was play cars on the end table in our living room. If you notice, my camera is sitting there. I picked it up to move it and he said, “Can you leave it there, it is my “security camera” in my parking lot! PRECIOUS!!!!!



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Name Brand Favorites… March 19, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 1:14 pm

My best friend has been blogging for years also and she often blogs her “favorite” things of the week. Reading her blog the other day I started to think about things that I like and dislike at the moment. One thing that came to my mind is purchasing generic products. I am all for saving money! For those of you who know me, I am all about finding a sale and a bargain! Got a huge savings at Old Navy yesterday on some spring clothes for the boys and it made my day! It is an actual “high” for me to get good deals. However, I am a FIRM believer that you “get what you pay for”. My hubby made a good point the other day that he would rather have fewer items as long as what he purchase was good quality he was willing to pay more.

Well, there are a few items that I will pay the full price for, items that I REFUSE to buy generic. Now, don’t get me wrong, if we were starving to death or did not have the money to buy them, I would buy generic, but if the funds are there, I will not purchase certain things “off brand” unless it is a dire financial emergency.

Here are a few examples

Campbell’s Soup….. not only can I tell the difference, but I have found that when trying to save money and I purchase an”off-brand” or store brand my hubby and kids notice something different about the texture of casseroles, etc. So that is one example of my weird obsession.

Laundry detergent! Now this is a must…. I have two boys who are ever so messy! I have found that in order to save clothes and get out horrible stains either Tide or Gain is the ONLY way to go. I have purchased less expensive detergents but I am never satisfied. It is well worth the extra money to me to know that the numerous stained up items I wash each week are always going to come clean!



Crest toothpaste. Now I have tried NUMEROUS different brands of toothpaste. Not just because of price point but because I have an obsession with oral hygiene. I have found that any product crest puts out their holds up to their advertisement and I am happy and cavity free! Not to mention…. I like the taste!

Next is TOILET PAPER ! Scott is my preferred brand….now, I know this is a less expensive brand but…. it is the best for the buck! I used to HATE scott toilet paper, but it really does last longer and with three guys in the house! , it is a must! My hubby and I used to actually argue over it but in the past 15 years I have come to realize, he is right so ..Scott it is! I can buy a bulk pack of Scott toilet paper and it last a month. I buy other brands and I have to buy it weekly. In the past year I have come to find that I like to purchase the paper towels also!



Another one is Now, I know…this stuff is really gross…no matter how you look at it but…. even as a kid I could tell a difference when my mother purchase a store or off brand in any of this disgusting junk. My sweet boys hate it therefore I don’t have to buy it! LOL! But I always think of my love for it as a child when I think of purchasing name brand!

Now, for you and the “south’ you are totally going to get the next one…. It is mayo…. You cannot purchase anything but

DUKES! It is the best. When I was a child and we lived up “north” we had it shipped to us! It is great! As we say here in the south…”We eat our salad dressing on our salad, not our sandwich”



These three cleaning products are a must. I have purchased all the “generic” and store brands and none of them compare to my love for these three products. I know some people and even myself have issues with the “environment” issues of each of these products but I do not feel my house is clean unless I use these. (I know, I am sick) LOL!

So for years now I have struggled with jeans! I am short and I just have e a horrible time. I even argued with my bestie once that I would NEVER find jeans to fit me the want I wanted. Two years ago I went with her advice and tried on a pair of jeans at Buckle (my favorite store…thanks Candy). I have never been the same…now I know… some of you say, they are too expensive. But as I stated before….YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR (not to mention, they have layaway). You can also find wonderful savings online or the particular brands website. I for one , love the fact that Buckle has free alterations and not only can I get the perfect fit but the perfect length. I even got my “tight wad” hubby wearing jeans from there. I love the BKU brands, Big Star, and my favorite is the MEK!

Okay…so now you all see some of my sick obsessions, I have a ton more from cosmetics, etc. to underwear but this blog is getting LONG. Anyway, I guess I was thinking about all this and “bringing it back to the gospel” as they say. It made me think…. how glad I am that God does not have “favorite” brands or even things! We would all be in trouble. What if God chose who he loved by our size, quality, color, texture, shape, how hard we work (or didn’t work), how much we cost, how well we cleaned, how we tasted, what we ate, where we lived, vacationed, etc.? We would all be screwed!

No… instead, God loves us just as we are. No matter our “off-brand” flaws. In his eyes, we are all name brand! Thank goodness!

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recap of the past few days…. March 16, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 3:25 am

I had a rather busy weekend and with the time change I am really tired.

My weekend fun started on Thursday. Tommy purchased me Sugarland tickets for Valentines day and thanks to our good buddy Shane we had some awesome seats! Thanks Shane! The concert was so good. I just love Sugarland! It was quiet the show. I enjoyed every minute of it! I especially loved the dress that Jennifer wore! I so want it. I asked on twitter and facebook who the designer was but had no luck in finding out.

Friday night we went to see our precious friend Hannah in her school play. She was amazing and I was so proud of her! She ROCKS! The boys and I enjoyed having dinner and hanging out with Candy and Hannah. It was such fun!







Saturday was rather crazy. Errands in the morning and then we had my sister0-in-law Jessica’s baby shower. We just can’t wait to meet Baby Tanner. The shower was nice and it was fun to see all the cute little baby items.



Sunday we had clock troubles with the time change and it really turned into a blessing. A electrical cord in Eli’s room caught on fire, so thank God we missed church or our house would have burned completely down. We enjoyed a yummy lunch with my parents at the Chinese Buffet and then headed to a sweet ladies funeral. It was so nice to hear of all the wonderful stories. It made me wonder what people would say about me if I died.. After the funeral Tommy enjoyed two of our favorite things…coke Icee and Buckle ! LOL!! Got me some cute things!

I have been totally consumed with the earthquake in Japan. It is so sad. I pray for peace for them all very soon.

I am really excited because our my new website is up and going www.allieboriginals.com.

I hope to have tons of business come my way so if you are a faithful reader then spread the word!

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To God Be the Glory March 10, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 4:05 am

Whew…today has been such a long day! I am worn out. Even though today was long it was a good day! I had an awesome Bible study this morning, several appointments, got my hair cut and colored, ran errands, and managed to do some work this evening while watching American Idol. I really do not have a lot to share today but I did want to share something that was really awesome.

We have been singing an old Hymn that was changed up a bit through our worship leader at church. They posted the song and chords on Facebook today. I love this old song and I must have listened to it a zillion times while checking emails. I have posted the song along with the CaringBridge page that I read while reading it. This truly was the best part of the day! Hope it blesses you all.

Jennifer Fortner
•What a great day!! I got wonderful news in Charleston. My liver tolerated the radiation treatment well, I still have perfect liver function and the best news is that the radiation is really working. He said there was significant shrinking of tumors on my liver. Both doctors were very pleased at how well I am doing and had nothing but positive things to say. It was indeed a very peaceful, great day and we walked away filled with so much HOPE!
Thank you for all of your faithful prayers for me! One of the doctors said to keep on doing whatever it is I’m doing because it’s working. So keep praying, believing and trusting.
Love,
Jennifer


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so thankful for dirty dishes in the kitchen sink… March 7, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 6:31 pm





Today I am so thankful for dirty dishes in the kitchen sink. Now that is something you don’t hear everyday. However, I remember once as a little girl I went to church with my grandmother. It was one of those old-time services when they used to have “testimony” service. You know…where everyone would stand up and say, “I want to thank the Lord, for all he’s done for me” . I kinda miss those services in a way. It showed what you were thankful for and what others were thankful and could sometimes be a great reminder of things you take for granted.

I remember that my sweet granny stood up and thanked the Lord for her dirty dishes in the kitchen sink. I remember even as a child, I thought..”Why in the world would you be thankful for that?”. Then I listened to her sweet testimony. She told how everyday when she washed her dishes she would have prayer time with God. Sometimes she would pray, but mostly she would listen to God and what he had to say to her. I thought…”boy, I bet over the years, she has had a lot to pray about.” Her mother died when she was 6 leaving her the oldest of her siblings and she cared for them on her own while her father worked away up the hills of Tennessee, she married a total loser and had 12 children, she raised all them by herself, worked in the cotton mill, buried several of her children as infants and adults, help raise many of her grandchildren, survived the depression and so much more. The list goes on and on, yet she was probably the most genuine person that has ever been in my life. She was a Godly woman and she loved the Lord so much. She left behind a great legacy…. all of her children were believers in Christ. Our family tree is full of children/grandchildren serving God in ministry, great singers, and much more.

She taught me not to be fearful of many things such as thunderstorms and harm. She often told me “as long as you got the Lord, you are fine” that is true…”as long as you got the Lord, you are fine”. She gave countless tein certain areas thatstimonies of how God protected her physically, financially, etc. over the years and her truth in her stories were enough to establish a great faith in me that formed foundations that cannot and will not be shaken. I am so thankful for that.

Back in August my dishwasher broke, I have not had it fixed. The other day, I thought, “Why haven’t I just had the stupid thing fixed or even buy another one” I even had some extra cash that would have done just that two weeks ago but I decided to spend it elsewhere. This morning, it hit me like a ton of bricks. It easy for me to get my dishwasher fixed, load it up and be on my merry way. However, over the past few months I have learned first hand to be “so thankful for dirty dishes in the kitchen sink” . I have found myself praying and talking to God during those times of cleaning my dishes. It is like a great kids church object lesson. As I clean the dishes, God is cleaning my thoughts, feelings, and revealing to me insight on my life, my children’s lives, and so much more. I am so thankful that I have seen the testimony of my precious grandmother become relevant in my life today. It once again shows how living a life committed to Christ can be rewarding even after you have gone on to be with Jesus. How the prayers and testimonies you have today will affect the lives of people tomorrow. My hope is that my children will be able to say one day that they are “so thankful for dirty dishes in the kitchen sink”.


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So….these are the Days of Our Lives…. March 7, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 3:13 pm

The past week was sorta crazy! We had a lot going on as well as the boys have been feeling under the weather again. I will hit some highlights of my week though. I really enjoyed breakfast with my precious friend Candy this week. We were excited to be host a baby shower for our sweet friend Kelli. We never really need a reason t to get together and eat….but hey….we made one. We had to do some planning! LOL! However, that afternoon we found out Kelli was in the hospital. boo…. The good thing is her sweet baby boy will get to be at the shower when we get to have it. LOL! Saying lots of prayers for Kelli and baby Grayson.

Wednesday morning I so enjoyed getting to go back to Bible study. For those of you Grace ladies who are not involved in the Ezer study. Please take it in the fall. It is amazing and will totally rock your world and change your life forever. I am in a group with such a great group of ladies.

Wednesday afternoon Eli started getting sick again. Fever, chills, and sneezing his head off. Poor fellow. By Wednesday night Bleeze was crying with an earache….So that bring Thursday morning…..trip to the doctor…..

At the doctor they determined both boys had ear infections and that Eli has a sinus infection as well. The doctor feels both boys are experiencing secondary infections from having the flu in January. GREAT! I could kick myself this year. I have always be very persistent in giving my boys probiotics. I swear by them. This winter, I have slacked off and they have been sick more this winter than in the past 3 years. I could just kick myself. So today… I am off to purchase my sweet boys new probiotics. I got to get them healthy.

Thursday night was so fun. I headed out for GNO (girls night out) I swear every time I say GNO I think of two things 1. The gynecologist (dont ask me why?) 2. Miley Cyrus song GNO….neither thought is pleasant. However , my GNO was great! We enjoyed a yummy meal at Purple International Bistro and Sushi. So good and I loved the atmosphere and most of all the company. I will be forever thankful to Candy for introducing me to such a wonderful group of ladies. They are amazing.

Friday the boys begged to go see Nanny Mary and she consented for a sleepover, so Tommy and I took advantage of the opportunity to have a “date night” we went downtown Greenville and enjoyed Sassafras. We eat out a LOT and by far it was some of the best food I have had in a LONG time. It was delicious! I love the atmosphere there also. After dinner we went to see the movie “Adjustment Bureau”….well.. let me just say… it wasn’t bad….but it wasn’t great… I could have waited and watched on PPV.

Saturday morning Candy and I went to visit Kelli in the hospital. Poor thing, she has been up there for days. Praying for her today as she has amnio and hopefully has her little boy tomorrow if all is well. (Kelli if you have to stay longer… I have you a ton of magazines on the way).

Saturday afternoon the boys and I went to the mall. I treated myself to two of my favorite things….Buckle and Victoria’s Secret. ahhhh….nothing like retail therapy….

Saturday night we took the boys to fun gym. They love to go there. While they had fun with their best buddies, Tommy and I did some errand running. Which included taking back my fabulous Michael Kors watch. It broke!!! I just got a credit and went on my merry way…boo…

After picking the boys up and getting them ready for bed..Eli decides to get sick again….. After going to bed he was having a horrible time swallowing and catching his breath to the point he vomited. I am not sure if he over did it at fun gym.. or what….but he was sick again all day yesterday with a horrible sore throat and low-grade fever. I am allowing him to sleep today in hopes that he feels better. If not it looks like we are headed back to the doctor. …

Sunday… I played the nurse to sick Eli….poor fellow. He can barely swallow. He is on an antibiotic so I am not sure what is going on. I also was inspired by Candy to bargain grocery shop. I sat for 2 hours and compared sale ads and coupons for the best deals. My research took me to two different stores. Ingles and Publix. I went last night at 8pm. I had not bought groceries in two weeks and with two growing boys we go through a lot of food. We were out of everything. I spent $238.85 and saved $128.27. That is including a lot of health and beauty and cleaning products so all in all… I think I did very well. Tommy was pleased because in the past when we have been low on everything….the bill has been close to $400.00 so no complaints last night. Whoot…whoot!

There you have it….the past few days of my life. LOL! Today…. hopefully is going to be a great day! The sun is shining and I am hopeful. I made a decision this past weekend. In the past, I used to blog about all sorts of things from religion, politics, current events, etc. I kinda jumped off the band wagon because of being busy and people always having something to say (good and negative) about my blogs. I decided this weekend that it time for me to start back blogging my thoughts and feelings…not that my readers really care, but it makes me feel better…”the truth sets you free”. I have had many people say, “I wish you blogged the way you used too” So here’s to you guys….be watching for more “thoughtful” blogging than just my daily life. I can’t promise you that it is always going to be what you want to hear…but I can promise you…it is how I feel…so until next time…. Love to all!

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Slack again… February 28, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 12:32 pm

Well, once again, I have been a slacker. LOL!!! I have been delayed in the blogging…. So here it goes…

What’s new?

Not much, I have been very busy with Allie B. Originals. I am so thankful for business. I also have been very busy with the boys and just life itself. Everyone knows how it gets. I have a million thoughts in my mind that I want to blog about. I am hoping to eventually get myself structured enough to complete some of these blogs. I have actually started making a list. I think that for now though….going to show some gratitude and be on my way to another busy day. Today is cleaning day and it has to get done because living with the three pigs… the house stays a mess! Hope everyone has a great week ahead!!!

Gratitude

So thankful for today….. a gift from God.

So thankful for my hubby and boys…..

So thankful for true friendship

So thankful for the sweet moments I had with my sweet niece Makenzie last week.

So thankful for dinner out with Tommy Saturday night.

So thankful for a wonderful sermon at church yesterday.

So thankful for my business taking off

So thankful for the many blessings I see and those that I do not see…(praying God daily reveals to me)

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Crazy Day Yesterday February 16, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 6:35 pm

Yesterday was crazy! Tommy and Eli spent the day in Charolotte and Bleeze and I spent the day in Asheville. So funny! Yesterday I spent the day running tons of errands! I have been really busy working on new designs for Allie B. Originals!! Can’t wait to share some of them with everyone.

Today is no less crazy! I have been running like a chicken with its head cut off. Just thought I would take a minute to clear my head by writing a quickpress blog! Hope everyone is having a great day!

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Until I figure it all out…. February 15, 2011
Filed under: Uncategorized — allisonbagwell @ 12:25 pm

So, until I figure everything out on transferring blogs. Just going to share a little bit. We had a hard two week of sickness in our house. Both boys had the flu and Bleeze turned into ear and sinus infections but now he is all better. Thank the LORD!

Sunday night I went to church with my entire family. We went to see Lee University Campus Choir. So good! We enjoyed dinner afterwards.

Yesterday was Valentine’s Day! The day for love. Tommy was really good to me this year. Tickets to see Sugarland (very good tickets), Roses, chocolates, and a wonderful dinner at City Range. I showered him with different cards all day long. Some funny, some serious! However, all about LOVE! The boys loved their little treats too! I had planned on having them a Valentine Party but with the flu…it was impossible.

So for now, I am going to get ready. I have to go to Asheville today for the business! Hope everyone has a great day!

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