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Friday, February 15, 2019

2018 RECAP

I am so excited to recap 2018. I think it was by far one of the most amazing years we've had. We were truly blessed and I'm so proud of what we accomplished last year, that it motivates me to work harder to keep it.

January 2018 - I quit my job! To keep a long story short, I was working for a company I had been with for a while (on and off) and I was about 4 months shy of delivering baby boy 2. JMWR (our first son) ended up getting double pink eye which caused me to be out of work for two weeks since daycare would not take him back if he even had the slightest evidence of pink eye. We managed to get it under control and I returned to work on a Monday only to be called during lunch time by the daycare advising that JMWR was very fussy and not acting like his usual happy-self. I drove him to the doctor because I knew something was wrong, and come to find out, the double pink eye turned into double ear infection. This was now going to keep me out of work for another week. During this time, my boss was hounding me about my return and I continued to remind her that I cannot control that the daycare would not allow my son back and that meant I would have to be home with him. I remember texting my husband my frustration with my boss not understanding the issue, and told him that I wanted to quit and start my own company. So I did! Overnight I put together a website, some pricing, and stayed up until my husband left the next morning emailing and messaging small business owners my proposition and how I could be of assistance. Within a week, I had five customers and was already making what I was making working for two-weeks at forty hours a week. To say it was a blessing is an understatement! I just surpassed a year of business ownership and am proud to say that things are still going great and I now have eight clients who are more like family than clients.

February through April 2018 - Not much took place during this time as I was just working my business and being a stay at home mom preparing for baby two. We did however have a small diaper shower that was so laid back and fun. It was a "Huggies and Chuggies"theme. Guests brought Huggies diapers, and we supplied the Chuggies aka Beers! Since our first shower was more about me and baby, I wanted this one to be all about dad! It was his turn for some attention and love.
May 1, 2018 - We welcomed our little bouncing baby boy number 2! It was an emotional rollercoaster. We were so excited to be holing baby two but were so sad that we had to leave our big guy for three days while we were in the hospital, although he came to visit, it was never long enough for us. Our second little guy was born May 1, 2018 at 10:45am weighing 8lbs and 5oz. He came out screaming and hasn't stopped since, but he really is a happy baby, he just gets very fussy when he is hungry - reminds me so much of his daddy (hehe).

Remainder of May through July 2018 - My husband graduated his 5-year program for his job which allowed him to promote to a Foreman! And, we kept our promise that after graduation, he could buy the truck of his dreams....and he did! He was so excited and I was so proud. The truck he was driving was a single cab Dodge that he got as a Junior in High School, so it was definitely time for an upgrade. When he started the program, he talked about wanting a Dodge Ram 1500, and that's exactly what he got and the look on his face when he got in for the first time after signing the papers - PRICELESS!!! We even took the boys on a few adventures which included Gruene, New Braunfels, San Marcos, and Round Top, TX. It was so fun getting to take them to new places and embark on some small town TX adventures.

July 31, 2018 - We signed the papers and started the process of building and buying our first home. Talk about overwhelming in the greatest way possible! It was a very easy process and we finished building and signed our contract, and moved in, on November 27, 2018.

August 2018 - Lots happened in August. We broke ground on the house, we had JWOR's dedication, and JMWR's 2nd birthday party. It was so fun! There's a little place not to far from where we live that has so many fun things for kids of all ages, and adults. His party theme was "Party Animals," because let's face it, that is exactly my 2 year old! Daddy and I made his cake, which was a guest favorite but didn't make enough and note for future parties: make bigger cakes. It was a great party. He got LOTS of Lighting McQueen toys - his favorite - and after the party, all of the kiddos crashed! Parents were cheering everywhere that their little ones were knocked out. Another note: always have LOTS of activities that wear kids out.
 
September through October 2018 - We celebrated a few birthdays in some fun ways! In September, I turned 26 and in October my husband turned 27. We celebrated his birthday by taking a trip to Rock Port, TX. It was a quick weekend but it was fantastic. Any chance to get away is amazing, and we made the most of it. My best friend let us stay at her parents vacation home with her and it was amazing. We stayed up and played games, and had a few drinks. It was relaxing and the kids loved it too. We took a day trip to the aquarium, and our big guy was in total shock. Overall, it was a really fun way to celebrate. Of course we attended Ren Fest again this year - we go every single year, and this year did not disappoint. We saw shows, played games, and even enjoyed several of the activities. AND, this was the first year our big guy was able to go trick or treating for Halloween. 2016 he was way too little and 2017 it was raining. While we had a little bit of sprinkling, overall, it was a great night. JMWR dressed up as Mickey Mouse and JWOR dressed as a "baby shark."  
November 2018 - Lots of family and love, and packing in super speed. November was great! We celebrated Thanksgiving with the family and just two days later, signed the contract for our home and moved in the same day. It was so hectic. We were packing like crazy because, of course, we waited until the last minute. But it all came together, it was amazing and overwhelming and absolutely the greatest time!

Deember 2018 - We celebrated Christmas in our new home! We hosted family for Christmas lunch, and everyone was so gracious to comment how much they loved our home. Santa came and left, but the memory of our 2018 Christmas has stayed.
After writing this, I realize we were immensely blessed in 2018. God has been so very gracious, and I can promise you that none of this would be possible if not for His love and His promises. I cannot wait to see what 2019 brings. So far, it's been wonderful!

I hope you all had a fantastic New Year and no matter what happened last year, remember this: "Always be Thankful in the Good Times and Faithful in the Bad Times." God has made 7,000 promises to us and He will make all things happen when it is time.

Sending love and hope for your 2019,
Megan

 
 










Monday, October 26, 2015

WEEKEND RECAP {10.26.2015}

We are officially at the end of October! How absolutely crazy, this year is flying by. While we eagerly wait for 2016 to arrive, let me take a moment to write my weekend recap. Well Friday, I left work early to celebrate E's birthday. He wanted to go to Lupe Tortilla so that's where we went. During lunch, I surprised him with his last and final gift, an Xbox One. He was so excited and had no idea. Saturday, he had to go to school to make up for the days missed while we were on the cruise. Once he got home, we enjoyed a day together. Originally, we were going to go to a family reunion, but the weather in Texas has been nothing but downfall and we decided, mutually, that it would be best if we just stayed home. Sunday, we slept in. We missed church because the drive to the church is down back roads and we figured they would be flooded. I got up and made homemade pancakes with sausage and a banana. E loved it! We ate breakfast in bed and watched the pre-game show on ESPN. Around 12pm, we decided to sit and watch the Texans game, bad idea! They were doing absolutely horrible. Our best friend's little girl's birthday party was on Sunday. It was a "Oh Twodles" Minnie Mouse 2nd Birthday. It was so cute!!! Her mama decorated with pink and black and had a cute cake made. Alli looked adorable in a black and white chevron dress with a pumpkin on it. We got her this darling shirt from Etsy. It was a white long sleeve shirt with a number two patch on the stomach with her name in a Disney-style font. They will be going to Disney World in December and since Florida gets pretty chilly around that time, I opted for a long sleeve. I cannot wait to see pictures of her in it. Sunday night, we finished laundry, ate some yummy dinner and sat down to watch our typical Sunday night shows. The Walking Dead took us both by surprise, but I won't spoil it just in case you have it recorded. Anyways, here is my iPhone photo dump.
 
iPhone Photo Dump | Weekend Edition
Saturday, I played around with my Younique makeup
Sunday morning breakfast in bed. Homemade pancakes with sausage and a banana 
Alli's "Oh Twodles" Minnie Mouse 2nd Birthday Party 
Sweet Alli - Happy 2nd Birthday baby girl
 
Sunday meal prep was a success 
Over the weekend, I was promoted to "White Status" with Younique
 
Be sure to check below to find out how to win a FREE 3D Fiber Lash Mascara from me!
 
 
***Interested in becoming a Younique Presenter?
Visit www.YouniqueProducts.com/MeganRRichards, click "join", and become apart of an amazing company with amazing products.***
https://www.youniqueproducts.com/meganRRichards/business/presenterinfo#.Vi4dDE1FCAQ
Instagram: MeganRRichards
 
 FREE 3D FIBER LASH MASCARA GIVEAWAY VIDEO!

Thursday, October 22, 2015

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HUBBY {10.22.2015}

Today is my wonderful husband's twenty-fourth birthday. Geez! I know we aren't that old, but having known each other for fourteen years, I feel like we are. Last night, I surprised E by taking him to the mall and letting him pick out a few things. He loves hats, so we went over to Lids and he picked out a really nice all black Houston Texans baseball cap. Afterwards, we walked to Vitamin Shoppe and we stocked up on some supplements in preparation for Crossfit on Monday. In addition to the purchased gifts, I usually try to give him something homemade that's special and meaningful. After our mall adventure, we stopped by Chick-Fil-A, per his request, and then headed home where I gave him my homemade gift. I wrote him a long, sentimental note and gave him a custom made coupon book. Last time I gave him a coupon book was Easter 2011. He loved the idea then and was thrilled when he saw the coupon book this year. I'm going to keep this short and sweet and just leave some photos right here for you and do a Wednesday Photo Dump! Enjoy!
 
Photo Dump | E's 24 Birthday Edition
One day, my son will look like this.
 
I mean really, how adorable right?
 
I just had to post because he was is so cute!
 
On the way to his 23 birthday. I had family surprise him at the Houston Texans Grille.
 
 
 
Wednesday, July 29, 2015

FALL IS ON THE HORIZON {07.29.2015}

maple leaves, autumn, fall, trees, branches, natureI seriously cannot even believe that August is this Saturday. Not only does the first and second fall on a Saturday and Sunday, but it is also my mom and dad's birthdays. In some ways, I try to celebrate them, I think about what we would be doing for their birthdays if they were alive. But I am blessed to have them both as guardian angels. So this weekend, I will be prepping my house for Fall. For those who don't know, one thing that I love...is FALL! Although Texas doesn't look like a typical Fall, it's still my favorite time. I especially love the Texas Ren Fest. Sure, to some it's probably dumb, but if you haven't had a chance to stop by, you really are missing out. In addition to the TX Ren Fest, who doesn't love all the fun holidays and birthdays! Here is what our schedule looks like for the Fall holidays and birthdays...
 
August 1&2- My Mom & Dad's Birthdays
September 7- Labor Day
September 9 - My Birthday
September 24- My MIL's Birthday
October 10 through November 29- Texas Renaissance Festival
October 22- Hubby's Birthday
October 30- Little Princess Alli's Birthday
October 31- Halloween
November 21- My FIL's Birthday
November 26- Thanksgiving
December 24- Christmas Eve
December 25- CHRISTmas Day!
 
pumpkins, orange, halloween
Fall is busy but I love it and it really is the happiest time of the year!
 
Also, I just love the way the trees have that golden color. Oh and we can't forget the adorable decorations that people put up, specifically pumpkins. They are the cutest things ever. Ladies, get your Pinterest boards ready!!!

 One thing I really want to strive to do this year is make a Fall Bucket List. I think it would be so fun to complete things with the Hubby for Fall. Whose with us? Some of the Bucket List items on my mind are things like: Going to a pumpkin patch, make s'mores outside by a fire, ect. That's all I've got so far, but I will work it and present a really great Fall Bucket List for those that are interested. I think I will even do the Bucket List with a hashtag and add photos to Instagram.

Also, I wanted to chat a little about some of the ladies that I follow on Instagram. So many of them have been receiving their BFPs (Big Fat Positives- on Pregnancy Tests). Babies are such blessing and I love seeing all those positive tests. 2016 will welcome so many little miracles and I just love that each of these special ladies are able to celebrate these Fall holidays with a little miracle baby in their bellies. What a great Christmas gift! Look how wonderful and giving our Lord and Savior is that He would allow so many to enjoy the feeling of their own child growing in their womb on the day that His son, Jesus Christ, was born.

That's all I've got for today, I just felt like writing something short and sweet. Of course I had to give a shout out to the Insta-blessed ladies.

Thank you for reading and God Bless


Texas Renaissance Festival Throughout the Years:
Sunday, September 28, 2014

Quick Update! {09.26.2014}



Hello Bloggers!!!

We have been sooo busy, which seems to be the "thing" now in our house. We vacationed on a cruise in July, then at the end of August we flew out to Las Vegas (photos below of course), and now, September is FULL of birthdays! I just turned 22 and tonight, we will be celebrating another special family birthday. I want to start blogging and Vlogging regularly but recently, aside from being crazy busy with school, a fulltime job, and owning a photography business I can't seem to find the time but I'm determined to make time! With that being said, from now on, I will be making weekly posts to our blogspot and weekly Vlogs to our YouTube channel. So many things are taking place now, and I'm ready to share them with you in the hopes that it may also help you! I look forward to making another post to give you a full update on our TTC journey and plans. God bless!

Here we are on the plane heading to Vegas!
Hey we made it to Vegas!
M&M world was amazing! And smelled so good too!
Oh what fun! The Zombie Experience in Vegas is a definite must if you visit!
Cirque De Soleil show was spectacular! Carrot Top was hilarious but no photos were allowed. 

Thousands of flowers filled the Bellagio, so beautiful!
Paris and New York New York were stunning.
Ahhh the Bellagio, so breath-taking!
Fremont Street should be the first thing on everyone's list of "to-do's" while in Vegad! What a blast! 

There were tons of photos taken but I'm not going to drive you crazy with them, so there's a few. Well, that's all I've got today, but I did want to mention that that saying "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" is so wrong! I am horribly allergic to cigarette smoke (which I didn't find out until Vegas) and I have returned for about 4 weeks now and still have allergies affecting me...so there's that! Oh well, at least it was a great trip! 

See you soon for a TTC update!

Megan

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

From Saturday to Today, Our Week {10.23.2013}

This past weekend, Erik's mom and I attended Katy Market Day as vendors. She sells custom handmade crosses, gift baskets, and stunning wreaths. Her business name is 2 Basket Cases (check them out on Facebook and be sure to order your custom handmade crosses, wreaths, and gift baskets for the upcoming holidays). I sell baby bows, custom baby bibs, burp cloths, and blankets. I have also recently started selling rompers, lace leggings, diaper covers, and so much more (you can visit my shop here)! We were supposed to stay and work our booths until 5pm, but it was so windy and there just weren't very many people, so we ran over to JCPenneys to buy Erik's birthday presents. His parents got him two new pairs of jeans, a really nice blue shirt, and new tennis shoes {which he really needed}. Later on that evening, we headed out to Texas Roadhouse {our go-to spot for birthday dinners}. We met with Erik's parents, and our best friends Will and Amanda. It was a really busy day, but it was so fun. Sunday, we enjoyed a late morning and decided to relax around the house until the Texans game. We always watch the game at Erik's parents house. It was such a beautiful day and being able to spend time with his parents is such a blessing. Monday, Erik had work and then had to go to school. Tuesday was Erik's 22nd birthday. We celebrated by surprising him with a delicious steak dinner which also included chopped up and fried potatoes, deviled eggs {mine and Erik's favorite side dish}, and FHA cookies {which to my surprise, I loved them!!! and I am not the dessert type}. He was so surprised because he thought that we were just going to his parents house to drop off keys, not to mention, he got to eat a huge steak and we went home and he was completely stuffed.

Every morning, I try to get up with Erik and help get his stuff ready for work that day. Typically, I try to go back to sleep so that I can get some rest, but this morning I decided to just stay up and do laundry. We had soooo much laundry left over from our previous apartment when our old washer and dryer broke. When we bought our new washer and dryer, we thought we would be able to get all the laundry done before moving, but that didn't work. I have managed to get all but one and a half laundry baskets completed. I have a really good feeling that I will be able to have all the laundry done today, which would be such a relief.

I'm looking forward to this weekend. Erik has to attend school on Saturday for a few hours to make up for taking off on my birthday, but afterwards we get to attend a wedding for a friend that Erik and I have known since elementary. I am hoping that Sunday we can visit Dewberry Farm, a huge outdoor place with a pumpkin patch and sooo much more. I am praying we can take pumpkin patch pictures because they are my absolute favorite. I also want to take Christmas pictures. I want to make it a habit to take yearly photos. I think it will be especially important when we have kids.

Hoping to post pictures from this weekend of the wedding and pumpkin patch.

My laundry today....that's not even half of it!!!

Brooks just couldn't help but give daddy kisses for his birthday.

Daddy finally came home! Time to celebrate his 22nd birthday!

Chief was waiting for daddy to get home so we could celebrate his birthday!

Brooks was also waiting for daddy to arrive so we could celebrate!

So I've been brunette for quite some time but recently decided I was ready for a change and went ahead and dyed my hair back to blonde!!! 

Brooks decided she wanted to model one of the bows I made...doesn't she look darling??

Here is the side of our booth from Saturday. The tutus and outfits you see are sold by 2 Basket Cases.

This is the front of our booth from Saturday. The wreaths you see were handmade by Erik's mom....order your custom wreath and cross NOW!!!

Here are a few of the bows I have made. If you would like to order bows, they are just $1.50 each. I make them completely custom from ribbon colors, bow style, and I can also embroider them. Visit my website (link above) to order NOW!

Here is a photo of some of the bows laid out, you can also see the custom blanket (can be any color or fabric, and we can embroider), and the bib and burp cloth (again, these can be completely customized and embroidered...ORDER NOW!)

Here is a picture of me and my sweet husband at dinner on Saturday before everyone arrived. My hair looks brunette, but it really is blonde.

Thanks for reading and God Bless,

Megan