Long Story Short

Sometime last year...

2010-01-15T14:05:00.003-06:00

...this precious little boy came to live with us!

Cooper Jackson was born on October 26, 2009 weighing in at 8 lbs 5.9 oz. and measuring 21 inches long (although a couple of days later, we remeasured at the ped's office to find him only 19 inches long)

He's such a joy and a wonderful addition to the family!

"Walt" Needs a Name

2009-10-18T19:59:00.002-05:00

So, once again, we're down to the wire and our boy has no name! There are just too many good boy names out there for us to choose. Want to help name him? I have included a link below for you to click and cast your vote.

Click Here to take survey

Let the naming begin!!

Because parking at Chick-fil-A wasn't challenging enough...

2009-10-13T14:51:00.004-05:00

Do they really need "To Go" parking AND a drive thru?!?!

WOW Wednesday (WithOut Words)

2009-09-30T12:09:00.001-05:00

Say Cheese!!

2009-09-25T11:47:00.002-05:00

I think this one could very well eat her weight in queso! Check out these adorable pink cheeks following our trip to Schliterbahn in Galveston last month and how can you resist that cute little cheese-filled grin?

WOW Wednesday (WithOut Words)

2009-09-23T15:15:00.001-05:00

He Even Does Dishes...

2009-09-19T11:18:00.000-05:00

Carter is always helping me unload the dishwasher, so I thought I'd let him take a whirl at loading it too.

Not too bad...He'll get the hang of it, girls!

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

2009-08-10T22:13:00.007-05:00

My first born will be starting 1st grade in 14 days. Just two short weeks and she'll be gone ALL DAY LONG. I think I'm really, REALLY gonna miss her. We've been getting all the documents for registration and should have her registered at the school down the road tomorrow. We have gathered all her school supplies and purchased new school clothes. The only thing left is just a good pair of tennis shoes. Does anyone know how to stop a child from growing up?
I'm looking forward to doing pre-school with Hailey. I'll probably bring Carter in some. They're never too young to learn, right? It's gonna be so much fun. Hailey's been working on the Starfall website (See my sidebar under sites worth a look-see - I'd put the link up, but I'm just too lazy right now) It's so cute when she asks if she can do her school on my "puter" Santa may have to save up for a couple of netbooks for Christmas this year...
We've started discussing boy names. We still can't make up our minds. Seems like the girls' names were so much easier. We're thinking we might have to send out another poll like last time. Funny, but the name (Carter) that we both really liked took the poll by a storm. This time, we've come up with a few new ones and still have some of the ones from last time. Any suggestions we can take into consideration before the poll comes out?
I've really missed my blog. I get on and I visit all the updated blogs in my blogroll, but I just never update. I've missed blogging on so many different things. Maybe I can just use WOW Wednesday to post some pictures from recent activities. (Like when the girls ate "Mud Bugs" or Carter's first time to hold his own ice cream cone or his trip to the barber shop with Daddy) It's not like I haven't had anything to blog about. I've just lacked the motivation. It's got to be either the pregnancy......or facebook. (Darn you, facebook!)
So, could it be pregnancy brain that is telling me that a minivan might not be too bad? I mean, the doors practically open themselves. And all that storage... Don't get me wrong, I'll always be an SUV girl, but when we put that third row up, I lose most of my storage room. Once the baby (we call him "Walt" - story to come) arrives I'll need that big ol' double stroller for Carter and him in the back and it will NOT fit in the SUV (maybe if I had the Expedition EL or a Suburban) with the third row. Where am I gonna put groceries?
Should I just buy a bus?
We're gonna have to get a new carseat/stroller/travel system for Walt. The one we used with the other three is not only outdated by safety regulations, but it's falling apart. I practically cried when Hot Rod took the old carseat/carrier out to the trash man. I loved that thing. It was silly, I know, but I loved the pattern. I mean, we could hardly get the seat off the base in the car. Drove Hot Rod crazy sometimes trying to get Carter out of the car. I can't tell you how many times we just unbuckled him from the seat. Oh, and the stroller...What an awesome stroller. It had cup holders and storage up near the handles just perfect for two drinks and keys and cell phone...and the basket at the bottom holds SO MUCH STUFF. One of the best features, you could push and guide it or even fold it with ONE HAND! How will we ever find the perfect replacement...?
Okay, now I'm thinking about "Walt" so I guess I should explain. Or have I done that already? (I can't remember.) Anyway, so maybe there is more to the magic of Disney...WALT Disney. Long Story Short (LOL) we had a Disney World trip planned for October - the SAME week that "Walt" is due. Even bought the stinkin' airline tickets. FYI - pregnancy is not covered under the airline ticket insurance. (Glad we didn't waste our money on that.)
Speaking of insurance...PPO's are horrible. Co-pays and Co-insurance and deductibles. Covered and non-covered, in-network and out of network...blah, blah, blah...It's sad when I can easily say that the hassle of Cobra Insurance for Carter's birth was waaay less trouble and inconvenience. Getting the PPO to pay what they are supposed to is next to impossible.
Okay, just saw the end of The Tonight Show. What is going on? They actually had Lyle Lovett singing something along the lines of "I'll choke my chicken all night long" I miss Leno...

Oh look, a blog!

2009-08-05T23:48:00.001-05:00

Someone should really post an update.

Perhaps "someone" will...tomorrow!

The Princess Bride

2009-06-19T23:27:00.000-05:00

Let me start by apologizing for the quality of the photos. These were taken with my camera, in crummy church lighting by me, not a professional photographer on a sprained foot. (oops, I didn't tell you that story either - what happened to the month of May???) Well, let the photopost begin... (photopost, I like that word)

Here she is, my baby sister.

Isn't she beautiful?

And my baby girls.

Aren't they adorable?

And let's not forget my little prince.

A most handsome little man.

My Daddy, another handsome guy.

Poppy and Nana

One of my precious neices and a nephew who insist on growing up too fast.

The first dance:

The bride's dance with the younger neices and nephew

The wedding party (the most handsome "Hot Rod" is the one on the far right)

And finally, the happy couple

And so begins the first day of "Happily Ever After..."

Love you, Sis! You really made a beautiful bride.

The First Haircut

2009-06-15T23:17:00.003-05:00

I'm sure you're expecting to see pictures of my little man, but did you expect that you'd see this...?

Her before pictures:

The first snip:

Showing how much was cut:

All done:

Yes, our little Hailey Bug got her first haircut at 3 1/2 years-old. (Just like her older sister!!) For those of you who know me personally, you remember my girls were born with a full head of hair. And they both had highlights!! (SO...NOT...FAIR!!)

Carter on the other hand, well...he was only 13 months when his hair was cut for the first time.

Carter's before picture (what a mess!!) He looks tired because we had to wake him up to cut his hair:

The first snip:

Making progress:

The after-shot:

The following Friday with his hair all styled up for the rehearsal dinner:

(My sister's wedding post to follow in the next few days)

May 5, my sister, Laurie, came over with her daughter Emma, my Dad and Tanya. While Dad and Tanya kept up with the kiddos, Laurie cut hair. First mine, then Hailey's, and last Carter's. She was one busy haircutting lady. I am so fortunate to have a sister talented enough to trust to cut not only my hair, but my precious babies. She said my kids are very easy when cutting their hair. They sit amazingly still and don't fuss. What a blessing!

Don't my kids look great?!

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

2009-06-10T22:45:00.000-05:00

We are officially 1/2 way through our pregnancy! 'Watching' all the babies being born at church (I think there is at least one a month until Nov.) is really starting to make me anxious. Not in a bad way. I'm excited, but I don't want things to speed up. I'm good with the way things are progressing.

Four kids! WOW!! Are we crazy or what? I always thought I'd have three children. Once we had number three, our family still did not feel complete. To be honest, Hot Rod always wanted our family to be an even number. Something about theme parks and everyone having a buddy to ride with...

I think we finally figured out how this keeps happening. :)

The baby has started getting quite active. It's such an incredible feeling when the baby moves. For about a week, I was worried because I wasn't feeling anything. Now, I'm more tuned into the feelings - and relieved to feel that little bit of reassurance that baby is okay.
I'm very happy to be through the "morning sickness phase". (I almost typed "faze" LOL!)
Now, I seem to have reached that "nesting phase" I know, it's early, but I've got a lot of work to do. I worry that, eventually, I might end up on bed rest which could cut my preparation time greatly. (like by a couple of months!)
Carter has started touching my belly and saying "Baby" (in his own way. It comes out something along the lines of "bay-bay") He also leans over and gives the baby a sugar (kiss) So sweet!!
We got to see an ultrasound of the baby on Tuesday. The girls were so excited.
We found out the baby is now around 11 ounces.
And...it's a BOY!!

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

2009-05-10T22:06:00.002-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to all you Moms out there!! And for those of you who still have your moms, be sure to let them know how much you love them, not only today, but every day. Enjoy every moment you have with her...you never know which moment will be your last.(I'll always miss you, Mom!) And for those of you who have lost your mom, may God give you peace today and everyday. May your memories bring a smile to your face and joy to your heart.

I'm annoyed with myself for being so lazy on the whole blogging thing. Sometimes, I just don't feel like thinking up the right words and other times, I don't want to download the pictures from the camera and size them down for the blog. Is that bad?

I think I have the biggest belly for someone who is only 3 1/2 months pregnant. Oh well...I guess I'll worry about that in another 5 1/2 months.

I'm excited we'll be going to San Antonio soon. We plan on visiting Sea World, Fiesta Texas and the Zoo. Oh, and we're taking my in-laws. I can't imagine how wonderful it will be to have 4 adults to the 3 children. This will be an awesome vacation. I wish it was going to be longer. (and that my foot wasn't broken!)

Watching all these companies going bankrupt is a little depressing to me. I sure miss the Turkey O'Toole and the Monte Cristo from Benningan's. (Why do my thoughts so often turn to food?)
It's funny, but after I finished my 100 list on my 100th post, I actually thought of about 25 more things I could have listed.
I am so glad everyone is finally chilling out about this H1N1 flu. Ugh...it got really out of hand. It has been humorous seeing the funny people and their masks, though...
Italian food used to be my favorite and I find it strange that even though I really have no true favorite kind of food right now, I had Italian food 3 times this weekend. And it was YUM!! (see?...food!)
I am very proud of the Houston Rockets! I can NOT believe that they beat the Laker jerks without two of our star players. Dikembe Mutombo and Yao Ming. (GO ROCKETS!!)
I think I found a bonus to being pregnant this summer. I didn't expect to be "in shape" for swim suit season and now....IT DOESN'T MATTER!! YAY!!

Why I Love Hailey Bug

2009-04-24T22:48:00.003-05:00

One of the many reasons I love my little Hailey Bug has got to be that she listens. She really takes in what Daddy and I say.

She may not always have the appropriate response, but she hears me...and at least that's a start.

Evidence that she is listening was displayed tonight when the following situation ensued:

Maddie finished up her lunch and was headed to the couch where Hailey and I were watching a little TV before we all headed upstairs for a nap when she tripped over a blanket on the floor and landed on the carpet. She didn't get hurt, it was a soft fall. Hailey looked over in Maddie's direction and said in her sweet little three year old voice, "Been walkin' long?"

I'm always teasing the girls with things like this or "How was your trip?" or "See you next fall."

We all had a good laugh, but I'll have to remember...Hailey is listening!!

My 100th Post

2009-04-22T11:25:00.000-05:00

I refuse to guarantee this will be interesting or enlightening.

Three (so far) of the best kids a mom could ever ask for live with me. And they are all mine. (and Hot Rod's)

My hubby is my best friend.

The hubs is the absolute perfect man for me. He actually LIKES to go shopping.

Hot Rod and I were friends in junior high school. I never thought of him romantically until after college.

I think I was born in the exact town I was meant to stay in my entire life. It's hot, humid and I love it!

I get cold really easily. REALLY EASILY!

I love the month of September. The weather is usually perfect. Oh, and I was born in Sept, too.

I love my backyard. We've spent a lot of time/money to make it what it is.

My favorite number is 10.

I'm very excited about baby #4 - not anymore than the other 3, but excited still.

Oh the strange looks and odd things that people will say when I am out with 4 children by myself. Not looking forward to that.

I grew up with 3 sisters. Hmmmm.....(like mother, like daughter?)

~~I think~~ I KNOW I will always miss my Mom.

I also miss my dog. He died about a year ago. He had been with me for 11 years. He was a good and very loyal companion. He was a sweet little Yorkie and knew a ton of tricks!

We'll be celebrating 10 years of marriage in August!

We were going to take a trip in Oct. The same week as my due date. I don't think that's going to happen...

I love my Saturn Vue. I can't fit 4 kids in the back seat. I'm kind of bummed about that.

I love to shop.

I love shoes.

I don't love to shop for shoes.

I have very few pairs of shoes. It's hard to find cute ones that are also comfortable.

Rarely do I notice what people are wearing - including their shoes. Unless it's really, really cute or really, really weird. And, I'll never remember it later.

I remember strange things and forget simple things.

People have a hard time believing that I was a shy child. I was. Really.

But, I did make friends easily. Everywhere we went I would make a friend.

My family went camping when I was young. Every year. That has to be some of my favorite memories.

Mom worked so hard all the time (at home) and it was nice to see her settle in a lawn chair with a good novel and just read.

All my life I have preferred to hang out with guys over girls. Girls were always so competitive.

I love the girl friends I have made at church. Would not trade them for all the guys in the world. (even Matthew McConaughey - LOL!)

Matthew M has the best accent. He IS from Texas after all!

Before I had children, my favorite food was Italian. Now, I don't have a favorite. Strange!

If a single tiny raw onion gets mixed into my food, it makes me gag.

I love grilled onions on my fajitas.

If a main course or side dish recipe calls for onions, I do everything I can to avoid using them.

If a dessert recipe calls for nuts, I leave them out.

I like nuts and I like raisins, but NEVER inside of anything!

Except peanut M&Ms, oh and snickers and I'm sure there are a few more I'm forgetting - okay never say never right?

Growing up we lived on property and I always wished I lived in a neighborhood where I could take off on my bicycle and ride for hours.

Now, I live in a neighborhood and wish I had more room.

When I grow up (yeeeeeah!) Okay, maybe my dream is to own a few acres in a nice community - kind of like getting the best of both worlds.

I started getting gray hair when I was sixteen. SIXTEEN!! Not a very awesome sweet sixteen gift! I think it makes me look older than I am.

Playing outdoors with my kids is one of my favorite things to do.

The laughter of a baby (especially my little man) is one of life's greatest joys.

I love surprises. No kidding! The Hubs used to try to tell me things (he's bad at keeping secrets that he's excited about) and I would NOT let him. It's so much fun to be surprised!

Our other Yorkie will be nine this year. We bought him for the Hubs. He follows me wherever I go. Guess that makes him mine!

There are no less than 15 dolls in my house. And that's just the baby dolls.

My girls enjoy cheering at sports games. Go 'Stros!

When I was younger, I was an Astros' buddy. Those were some great memories. I remember always having maple nut goodies at the games. They don't really taste all that great. (see, I remember odd things!)

My childhood was fantastic! We weren't rich and we weren't poor, but it never really mattered.

My Mom always made sure to have soft drinks and chips in the house - conveniently on Friday and Saturday nights so I would bring my friends to the house to hang out. She'd go off into the kitchen, bake brownies and then go to bed. (See why I miss her?)

There are orange lilies in my flower bed - some of my favorite flowers.

I also like roses - of any color.

And Hibiscus - orange of course.

Lime green is my favorite color.

Gardenia is my favorite fragrance - I have several gardenia bushes in my yard as well. (Oh, I love the lemon scent when I'm cleaning!)

I love the beach, but I'm not crazy about the ocean. (Sharks, jellyfish...etc.)

Disney World really is magical. When we planned to go in 2007, I got pregnant with Carter. When we planned to go in 2009, well...you know the drill.

We lovingly refer to our baby as "Walt"

Don't worry, we won't be naming him that especially if he is a she!!

I love being pregnant. I think it's because it's the one time that you can be fat and people actually think it's cute.

I just used it's three times in one sentence.

I am a grammar nut! The thing that bothers me the most is when people use "I" in place of "me"

I don't profess to be perfect at grammar, but some errors just glare at me.

It's been almost a year and I don't miss my "job."

Our only debt is our house and one of the cars. From my guestimation, we are not upside down on either one.

I am fully aware that guestimation is not a word.

"How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days" is my favorite movie. I still laugh every time I see it.

I'd love to have a maid, but the thought of a stranger cleaning my house creeps me out.

The yard guy once tried to argue with me over what I owed him...until he got my next payment with an Excel spreadsheet.

He doesn't work for us anymore...only because we do it ourselves now to save money.

By "ourselves" I mostly mean Hot Rod.

The Hubs cleans the bathrooms more than I do.
Yes, I am one lucky gal.
I watch a lot of decorating shows. Gives me ideas I'll never have the time, energy or money to do to my own home.
I also watch the Food Network.

I have a love/hate relationship with cooking. I love to do it, but I hate the thought of it.

I love Google. I "google" everything. I get all kinds of e-mails telling me some crazy stuff, so before I pass any along, I plug the subject into my Google toolbar and search away.

One thing that irritates me is when people forward e-mails that tell me at the bottom that I should forward to my friends. (Seriously!!! I know I can forward it - IF I WANT TO!!! You don't need to tell me that!) And I will remove those lines - EVERY TIME I forward an e-mail.

Discussing politics drives me crazy. Often, I don't agree with what is going on with our government, so I avoid it. Yes, I read about it and I get mad, but if I discuss it, I just get angrier...so I avoid it!

I think it's unfair to FORCE me to give up money I earned (or my hubby earned - LOL!) for people who refuse to earn their own. Don't get me wrong, I donate plenty at church and I love helping people out, but I don't want it to be taken from me.

I'm addicted to Coca-cola. I love me the "Real Thing!" I like having at least one of them a day.

Sonic has the best ice!

I always thought I'd have boys.

I wouldn't trade my girls for anything. I love all the bows and pink.

I never liked pink until I had girls. Now, I'm drawn to it!

Shopping for clothes is one of my favorite things to do. And I like it best shopping with Hot Rod.

Being a Stay at home Mom is the hardest job I've ever had.

It's also my absolute favorite job ever!!

I actually enjoy coloring.

I also like Play-doh.

It's possible I am one of the few people that as a child ate vegetables and didn't complain about it. They're good!

Without my computer, I'd feel lost.

The sun makes me sneeze.

I am a night owl and HATE getting up early.

Singing is one of my favorite things. I always sing in the car...and at home...and...

I'm allergic to my dog, but I love him...so, he stays!

I seriously doubt anyone is still reading this.

When I'm relaxing at home, I'm almost always cuddled under a quilt. (I told you I was cold natured!)

If you read all the way through - you know more about me than you ever wished for...oh, and thanks for humoring me!

Strange, but true!

2009-04-19T23:15:00.006-05:00

This past Easter was Carter's first Easter. It's odd because we celebrated his one-year birthday two weeks prior.

I remember last year thinking he might be born on Easter. I was really hoping that wouldn't happen because I really wanted to celebrate the day with my girls. I bought them pretty dresses and special matching hair bows that I searched high and low for -- I couldn't wait for Sunday so I could "doll them all up." (Shoot -- That's something I look forward to every Sunday!)

Hot Rod didn't actually believe me at first. It wasn't until I "Googled" the date of last year's Easter that he was convinced. (It just doesn't seem right, but since the date of Easter moves around so much, I guess it happens from time to time.) I saw a picture from Easter last year of a cousin's little girl. There I was in the background - belly big as a blimp!

We had a nice day, despite all the rain.

After church services, we headed to the classroom hallways to hunt eggs.

(Little man just wanted the stuff in the eggs!! - Smart kid...)

We filled our baskets and hunted down the Easter bunny for pictures.

(Just look at Carter eyeing the Easter Bunny's candy basket!)

We had a fabulous devotional and activity to complete with our family provided by SonKids.

Once we got home, we did a quick last minute touch up of the house and then I started cooking my Cherry Surprise - Yum!! Not long after Hot Rod's family started to arrive. We had a great feast and a nice time visiting with family.

And it wasn't too bad being cooped up in the house all afternoon!

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

2009-04-10T13:47:00.005-05:00

I don't like cleaning. I like my house to be clean, but I don't like to do it. Funny, once I get started, I get on a roll and it's fine. I just need the motivation to get moving. Since Easter is this Sunday and we have the big backyard, the festivities will be here. And honestly, I'm excited about that. I love having people over! (You know, it makes me clean - kidding! kind of...) Anyway, we purposely bought the house we did on the lot we picked so we could have people over. I actually wouldn't mind having people over at least 3 weekends a month. I think that qualifies me for crazy benefits.
My kids have a ton of toys. I mean a TON!! What kids in America don't, right? Well, they love to pull all the toys out and play to their hearts content. And they play really well together. (which is fantastic) BUT, when it comes time to clean up - LOOK OUT!! All the sudden the mound of toys which is insufficient at keeping them busy enough to not be bored are TOO MUCH to clean up. How, I ask you, is that possible??? I'm thinking I might buy a Mary Poppins costume and work on my magic. "Just a spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down, the medicine go do--wn, medicine go down. Just a spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down. In the most delightful way. For every job that must be done there is an element of fun, you find the fun and snap the job's a game..."
I think my son is going to be six foot tall. At just a year old, he's already 31 inches tall. Isn't there a rule that says at two years of age, you can double their height to figure out how tall they will be when they grow up? If so, we're well on our way. Maybe when he finally starts walking I will buy him a bat and work on his baseball skills.
The hubs just told me I complain a lot. I didn't think I did, but now he's got me self-conscious. So, every time I start to open my mouth, I stop and ask myself, "Is this a complaint?" And he has me worried...Do I really complain THAT much?!?!
I'm looking at my little boy standing in the middle of his toys shouting at me. (Something in baby gibberish only he truly understands) And he's smiling. He squats down, stands back up and shouts. Now, if he can do all that, why does he refuse to walk? Yesterday we played outside a little while after bagging all of Daddy's yard clippings. Carter decided to crawl off our blanket and toss my shoes onto the patio. He's a pretty smart little boy. He knew that if he crawled on the concrete, it would hurt his knees. So, he crawled on his hands and his feet. It was pretty funny! Again, why does he refuse to walk? Silly boy!
I think I might be nearing the end of the morning sickness - YAY!! I still get sick if I eat anything sweet. But, boy does it taste good going down. I just pay for it later.
I'm really looking forward to feeling like going to the gym again. Hopefully, Carter will do better with the girls who "work" in childcare at the gym. (And yes, I use the word "work" loosely) I want to workout thru this pregnancy so that after the baby comes, it's not so hard to get my shape back where I'd like it to be. I think I've been a little "relaxed" with the first three babies. I keep watching these shows like "The Biggest Loser" where they show before they got big pictures and it scares me to death. Some of these people were pretty small before they put on all their weight. Now, mind you, I've never been even the least bit large, but I feel that way. Don't throw anything at the computer or leave mean comments, but I used to be a size 2/4 before I had babies!! WOW!!!
I've had a hard time finding Easter dresses this year. I've been to Target and Kohl's which is where I usually find good dresses and came up empty handed. Now, I did find some possibilities at Target, but I didn't buy them because I always find adorable dresses at Kohl's. NOT this year! Kohl's was a total bust! Oh, except the Easter bunny found some Hannah Montana pajamas for Maddie. OH!!! Boy moms, where in the world do I find nice clothes (for Easter, Christmas, etc...) for Carter?? I really wanted to buy him a nice new outfit to wear on Sunday and I can't seem to find anything (in his size 12m - 18m) that will look nice. And can anyone tell me why people insist on putting gray and tan together...? Am I the only one bothered by that? UPDATE: Went shopping Sat. night with the hubs and found several dresses for the girls at Kohl's (different location this time) I even have dresses for the girls for July 4th!! YAY! Hailey came out with 5 dresses since they had so many cute ones in her size for only $10. I was also able to find a nice button up shirt for my little man. Oh, and I got $10 cash for every $50 purchased that I could spend at Kohl's next week. Doesn't get much better than that!
I don't think there is a Kmart within a 100 mile radius of my home and yet I see their commercials daily. Do you think they forgot to stop airing the commercials when they moved out of town. Nah, me either, but do they really have to tease me with the great prices. Don't get me wrong...I didn't shop there when they were here, but it still just seems mean to air them here.
I decided to allow anonymous comments on the blog. I just thought that maybe one day some of you secret readers might want to come out of hiding and at least tell me your first name. (blogrollofpatience? - I'd love to visit, but I don't have access) Or perhaps relatives might want to comment without having to sign up for a Google ID??? Really, I just love comments. I get excited to see how many people visit per day, but comments are really where it's at! Sometimes, I wonder if I set up my blogroll too well and people just like to use me for a springboard to all our mutual friends' blogs...which is okay. That's why I did it - for myself - and for you! Anything I can do to make your life easier!! LOL~

On this Good Friday, don't forget to thank the Savior for His sacrifice -
HAPPY EASTER!

I can't believe it's already been a year!

2009-04-01T23:11:00.000-05:00

One year ago Sunday, Hot Rod and I headed to the hospital to welcome our baby boy. And at that point...he was just that: "Baby Boy" (or "Peanut" as I lovingly referred to him) That's right, we still had not picked a name for him. Does that make us bad parents?

Some of you probably remember the survey we sent out asking you to vote on your favorite name. We had such a hard time deciding. And I'm not really sure why. We had it narrowed down to three names: Carter, Braeden, and Timothy. When we arrived at the hospital, we still couldn't choose between the first two. Which is funny because if our first child had been a boy, the name we had chosen was Carter. But for some reason, we just couldn't land on a name.

We decided to wait and see what name he "looked" like more. And then, he came along...

Our precious little man, Carter Wayne!! All 8 lbs. 5 oz, and 21 inches of him.

Over the past year, we have enjoyed watching him develop into such a funny little guy. He has the best personality.

Carter's favorite toy (besides Daddy) is his pack of baseballs that Daddy bought for him. What an arm this little guy has. He can throw a ball dead on almost every time. He even throws from across the room. (Hey, Astros, start saving up! This one's gonna cost you!!)

You know one thing I've noticed is when a boy picks up a toy car, he automatically makes that "car sound" Vroom, vroom! My son is no exception. I am not kidding!! I never taught him that. He just does it. He even does it when he rides around in his new car he got from Poppy and Nana for his birthday. Cracks me up! (Just look at the way he waves every time he passes someone by...he does it EVERY TIME!!)

One of the funniest things that I think Carter does is "the blank stare." Most of you guys who know him personally have seen this look. It's hilarious. I mean holding him and watching grown adults (what other kind are there, right? anyway...) try out their best material to make him smile, only for him to give them "the blank stare!" And when I say best material, I mean they are making complete fools of themselves jumping around making silly faces and noises. And there's my little man...blank stare!! At least it makes me laugh.

He's still not walking. He will stand and he's started to attempt to take steps. He'll even walk across the room holding someone's hands. But he refuses to take off on his own.

It's so hard to believe how quickly this year has passed. It just seems like he was hardly even a baby! I promised myself when he was born I would enjoy every moment. I wouldn't wish for him to hurry up and pass hurdles. And I think I did pretty good. But, it happened anyway. My baby boy just kept growing up...and he hasn't stopped yet!!

Check out my new Widget (and other possible titles for this post)

2009-03-21T11:25:00.000-05:00

Did you see it? It's in my sidebar. I have a new widget!!

Go ahead, check it out. It's on the right.

I'll wait.......

So, what do you think?

And while we're at it, here are some of the other titles I considered for this blog post:

Yes, we know how this keeps happening.

Our friends are gonna think we're crazy.

Our Disney plans have been postponed.

Well...this is gonna cost me.

I took a test for 5 seconds and got positive results in less than 2 minutes.

Does this baby make me look fat?

Our two of a kind definitely has a full house.

I'm sick, ALL THE TIME!

So much for losing weight from the last baby.

My FIL thinks there is something in the water here.

Bring on the ice cream! My diet just changed.

I think I need a bigger car.

Wish me luck, I'm gonna need it.

Hold on to your hat, this one's a doosey.

Anyway I write it, I think you get the message...

Not toys...nope, not my child!

2009-03-17T20:12:00.000-05:00

The kids and I were in the livingroom and I had HGTV on the television. I keep that on for a couple of reasons 1) the kids won't watch too much TV 2) most of the programming on this channel is kid-safe. Now, I know that a better idea would be to just turn off the TV, but sometimes I like the background noise. Besides, it drowns the noises outside and helps keep the dog from barking.

Anyway....Maddie looked over at the TV and said, "Mommy, THAT is the floor I want!"

me: "Wood floors?"

Maddie: "Yes!"

Hailey: "But, where would we put the toys?"

me: "Uh, in the gameroom where they are now...?"

First, I'll have to investigate why wood floors means bye-bye toys. Second, I knew Maddie was a lot like me. She even has my excellent taste in flooring choices. Third, maybe she is watching more TV than I thought. Which brings me to the next Maddie story.

Maddie: "Mommy, I saw on TV that there is a blanket that you can stick your arms through and keep warm!"

me: "You mean the Snuggie?!"

Maddie: "YES! Can I get one of those?"

And I wonder...why is my child asking for such bizarre things?

He works hard for the money!

2009-03-16T22:59:00.003-05:00

Today is Hot Rod's birthday. He is super busy at work, so we really didn't get to celebrate any today. In fact, we hardly saw him at all. He stopped by the house at lunch and ate a quick sandwich I made him while packing his gym bag. Then at dinner, we ran by his office so we could drop off the card we made him. And wouldn't you know it, I forgot to take a picture of it for the blog...

I'll just describe it for you as best I can. The kids picked out red construction paper (it's Daddy's favorite color) and then each girl picked a paint color. Maddie chose red, Hailey chose orange, and I picked blue for Carter. I painted each kid's hand and pressed it onto a white sheet of paper. Maddie practiced her penmanship and wrote Daddy a note "We love you" and then she wrote her name beside her handprint. I took the job of writing "Happy Birthday, Daddy" and Hailey and Carter's names. I just wasn't expecting Maddie to want to write so much...oops! It turned out great! In fact, I suspect that it's hanging in Daddy's office right now!

We will be celebrating later this week when Daddy takes a day off by heading to the Livestock Show and Carnival. (Doesn't get more Texas than that!)

Happy birthday, Honey...we do love you!

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

2009-03-10T21:16:00.005-05:00

There are a lot of birthdays in March. To name a few off the top of my head: Hot Rod, Carter, Steph Y, Tyler Y, Micheal B, Amber R, Dustin B...and the list goes on!
There are also a lot of people pregnant. I think I know of like six or seven!! I won't be listing those. I'm not sure who knows about whom...and what if I forget someone...and there is a girl I know of, but I don't know her name. So, I'll just leave it at six or seven gals.

I haven't told anyone this, but my goal is to blog every other day. To be honest, I'm doing good to blog once a week.

The state of the country (not to mention the economy) has me worried. I just see us going down a very, very bad path.

I was channel hopping as I sometimes do during nap time - why is it that most movies on Lifetime (a channel that is supposed to be for women) always puts women in horrible situations? Let me name a few: kidnapping, sexual assault, abuse, murder...What woman wants to watch that?!

Okay, it's after 10 PM and I can hear my girls screaming and laughing over the baby monitor in Carter's room. ***blogging break***

I love that the girls get along so well, but sometimes I think having them in the same bedroom is not the smartest idea I've ever had.

Just wondering...how does a single woman with no job afford 10 nannies on top of tons of diapers and food for 15? Just wondering...

Carter has learned so many new things, but that's a whole nother post in itself and might require pictures or even video.

Why is it that the things we want, you know those "comfort foods" have to be the things that aren't necessarily good for us? Ice cream, chocolate, Coke, fried foods. Just once, I'd like to say, "Man, I would kill for a nice grilled chicken salad with fruit for dessert!" and actually mean it. (well, not the "kill" part)

This time, she was prepared!

2009-03-04T23:09:00.005-06:00

The tooth fairy made another appearance last night. And this time, she was ready...she brought Maddie a single dollar bill. Maddie was thrilled to learn that this simple green piece of paper was equal to four quarters!

Oh how she loves quarters.

Shoot, she loves money period. (Who doesn't, right?!)

So, we have this rule here in the house that if Maddie finds money on the counter (usually from Daddy's pockets), she is allowed to keep it if she can tell us what it is called and how much it's worth. We might have to cash in the piggy bank soon...she doesn't usually leave any coins behind.

Anyway, I can't believe Maddie lost her second tooth! Well, I guess I can. I did pull it for her!

I just want her to stop growing up...hmph!

Sometimes the word "SUCKS" is appropriate!

2009-02-27T23:43:00.005-06:00

I've spent some time today....remembering.

Remembering a wonderful woman. The MOST fabulous woman I've ever known.

MY MOM!!

Those of you who knew her -- you understand.

Those who never met her -- well, you missed out!

Wow, what a fantastic woman. What an angel from God. A gift from heaven. Truly the best Mom a girl could ask for. She was always so supportive of all four of her daughters. She was proud of who we all had become. And somehow, no matter how hard people might think it is...she found a way to be there for all of us (and Daddy) whenever we needed her - even the times when we didn't realize we needed her.

And I'm remembering today.

Not all happy memories mind you. Like the significance of today.

I can remember it like it was this morning...the day my Dad called. His words cut..."Your Mom's gone..."

I remember falling to the floor screaming, "NO!!" like a heartwrenching scene from a movie. And I don't think I'll ever forget that.

It was three years ago today.

And you know what? It SUCKS! It sucks bad. My daughter, Hailey, and my son, Carter, they didn't get to know her...and that SUCKS! They have no memories of her at all. In fact, Carter never even got to meet her. She doesn't even know I got my boy! And Maddie was only 3 years old. Really, how long will those memories last? And does she really even remember? Or have I planted those memories in her mind?

Anytime something great happens with my kids...a milestone....an accomplishment...or even advice I need to seek...I feel this ache to call her. She would rejoice with me, she would cry with me, she would lift me up. But, I don't have that. And it SUCKS! Sure, I have friends and sisters and my Daddy and my wonderful in-laws...but it's not the same. It's not Mom. A girl needs her mom!

I can't help but think of her every day. Every time I look in a mirror, I see her...and it's SO hard. I can see her in my face and in my mannerisms. I can even hear her in my laugh. I love remembering her, but I don't want to be sad when I do.

So many times I hear older ladies speak of their mothers and a pang of jealousy comes over me. How fair is that?! They are so much older than me and yet they still have their moms. When younger women complain about their moms, it makes me want to scream! I think on the inside, I do a little. And then, I feel horrible knowing that Mom would be so disappointed in me. And that makes me feel sad...and it sucks!

So, yeah...sometimes, the word "SUCKS" is appropriate.

Thank you, my dear friend, for lunch and shopping and a little much needed distraction.

One Child's Loss is Another Child's Gain

2009-02-24T07:03:00.000-06:00

Sort of...

Friday night, Maddie lost her first tooth.

Saturday, Carter's 8th tooth broke through!

On Saturday morning, Maddie checked under her pillow where she had left her tooth (safely placed inside a ziplock bag) She was so excited to find in its place a ziplock bag of coins! She had over a dollar and was beyond thrilled.

Imagine her surprise when she found out that the Tooth Fairy left her tooth under Mommy's pillow. You see, the first tooth that a child loses is important to Mommies and if the Tooth Fairy were to take it and leave, Mommies would be sad. She found it amazing that the Tooth Fairy could reach under her pillow as well as Mommy's pillow and neither one of us felt her do it!! She is one sneaky little fairy.

Later in the day on Saturday, Carter pulled my finger into his mouth and bit - OUCH! (of course.) I thought that tooth was never going to come in. He has been biting me so much lately (on my shoulder, my arm or just about any part of me that was conveniently near his mouth), I was starting to think maybe I was just a big chew toy.

But we're good now...until next time.

What does the Tooth Fairy look like?

2009-02-20T22:40:00.000-06:00

Tonight while getting the girls settled in for bed we noticed that Maddie's tooth was getting extremely loose. We've had her working on it for a few weeks now and it was time to get that thing out!

She wiggled it. I wiggled it. Daddy even tried to get her to let him wiggle it! There was a little blood and some slight confusion (on Maddie's part) and then with lots of reassurance from Mommy and Daddy, she twisted it around and **POOF!!** out came her first tooth!

(It's kind of hard to see since her "adult" tooth is already coming in!)

Maddie had lots of questions: "What does the Tooth Fairy look like?" - "Will I feel her under my pillow?" - "What if she comes and I'm not asleep yet?" and "Does she come down from Heaven?" (Oops! Should I be feeling guilty about this?)

We've placed it under her pillow and will await the arrival of the Tooth Fairy...

Now, if only I could find some cash!

I hate flossing...

2009-02-19T22:03:00.005-06:00

I took the girls to the dentist a little over a week ago for their first cleaning and dental exam. I'm a little behind on Maddie, but early for Hailey - that makes up for it, right?

Maddie went first...she is the big sister!

Then, Hailey put on her brave face.

I think I was more nervous than the girls were. I just wasn't sure how the girls would react to having someone scraping their teeth or that they would choke on the taste of the gunk that the dental hygenist uses to polish teeth.

I was pleasantly surprised when one of the girls from the dental office came out and told me how great it was to take x-rays on a child that wasn't a screamer for a change. (She should come to my house, wouldn't she be in for a surprise!!) To be honest, I think Maddie was just so surprised at what was going on, she didn't know how to react.

They were both excited to wear some really funky glasses while they watched an episode of Hannah Montana on the ceiling!!

As you can imagine, Maddie was thrilled!

Hailey asked for Dora, the Explorer, but they didn't have it.

We work really hard to make sure the girls brush their teeth twice a day and it shows!

The best news of all......WE ARE CAVITY-FREE!!!

When their appointments were over, they were given new toothbrushes (purple for Maddie and yellow for Hailey!) and a choice from the treasure box. Maddie picked a ring (which she rarely removes from her finger) and Hailey found a water gun (not sure she understands what she actually picked!) It was a fabulous first visit to the dentist!!

By the way, does anyone know how to reach the Tooth Fairy? I need to let her know she should check into taking out a loan. Maddie has four loose teeth! OH, and two of her "adult" teeth are already coming in AND one of her six-year molars has burst through the surface!!

ON A SIDE NOTE: When he was finishing up with Hailey, the dentist looked at Carter in my arms and commented on how cute my kids were. Then he said, "Are you guys planning on having more or are you done?" (Why do people always ask me that?!)

Then I started wondering if he says that to everyone OR if the kids are ugly, he thinks to himself something more along the lines of: "Your kids are ugly, you should totally stop..."

just wondering...

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

2009-02-10T14:05:00.000-06:00

I used to think when I looked at my batteries that had 2009 stamped on them - "2009!! That's so far away!" I still have some of those batteries...

I love yard work. I don't mind mulching a flowerbed, pulling weeds, mowing... Just being outside is wonderful - especially when it's sunny. Sunshine makes me happy!

I do not love housework. I can't stand cleaning the house. Especially, the bathrooms. Yuck!!

I don't mind doing laundry, to an extent. Lugging them downstairs (okay, so I throw them over the balcony - it's fun for the girls...okay, okay...so it's fun for me!!), sorting them, washing them (really, the machine does the hard work), shifting them to the dryer (LOVE the smell of Bounce dryer sheets), I don't even mind folding them. And...that's where it ends. I'd rather someone else hang them and put them away!!

Lately, I've been having the hardest time watching shows involving children. I can't stand to see anything bad happen to kids. I know it's just a show and they're just actors, but it's too much for me to handle. My heartstrings can't take the pull...

I love opening up my house to company! I totally hate the part where I have to clean the house, but what better excuse for cleaning than for a bunch of friends to come over.

I have the best friends. I love spending time with them. Even my newer friends are awesome. I think I could hang out with them at least once a week.

I feel sad seeing companies go bankrupt. I don't like to see anyone fail. What's crazy is watching these big businesses that I've seen around for what seems like forever and they're going under. I'm ready for it all to stop. I've had a couple of friends hit by the economy downfall and I'm thinking that's two friends too many...

I probably mention this at least once a month (if not more) in my blog, but I have THE BEST kids! I guess as a parent, you're supposed to think that about your own children. Every night when I put them to bed, they are so sweet. The girls will pull every precious little stunt to get out of going to bed. It starts with wanting to cuddle (this is the ONE thing that neither Mommy, nor Daddy can refuse) then it moves to needing to go potty, wanting a drink, chapped lips, boogers (gross!), "I forgot to kiss and hug you" (Trust me, they NEVER forget to kiss and hug anyone), "Our movie is over", "I can't hear the music" and so many more. And then there's the boy...I get to snuggle him to sleep and then gently place him in his crib. He just rolls over and scrunches up so sweetly. Makes me want to pick him back up and cuddle some more. Oh, how I love those kids!!

I am so ready for wood floors. I mentioned before that I love having people over. It's true, I do, I just wish I could make my carpet invisible or maybe just the obnoxious stains everywhere. It drives me nuts! Even a water spill can leave a stain. We've had the 'professional' carpet cleaners come out and clean it & we've tried the Oreck dry-cleaning system (LOVE my vacuum, by the way)- NO LUCK!! The ugly stains just find their way back to the surface. Some days, I'm tempted to pull up the carpet while Hot Rod is at work. Do you think he would notice?

This Like...Never Happens!

2009-02-03T07:05:00.001-06:00

A couple of weeks ago, I was blog-hopping like I often do when I ran across a contest on one of my favorite little blogs, The McMommy Chronicles.

If you've ever visited McMommy's blog, you know there is nothing little about it. She is hilarious. And most of the time her posts are just real life situations. Things that have actually happened to her. She has the ability to portray her stories in ways that are quite humorous. Other times she provides helpful information like using a diaper urinal or nipple cream lip gloss.

So, as instructed, I made a comment on one of her blog posts about this precious necklace that she got from Bejeweled by Jules. And then, it happened! Random.org picked my number!! I won this custom, hand-stamped necklace. And I love it!

Be sure to check out her Etsy Shop. She has several different necklace styles and even a bangle bracelet.

Things I've Noticed Lately

2009-01-29T07:25:00.000-06:00

I've never seen a "fancy" Mexican food restaurant.

If you're not on Facebook......Who's NOT on Facebook?

A very popular fiction book has a glaring grammatical error (at the top of page 9) that jumped out at me as soon as I read it. I had to re-read it several times before I was able to accept it and move on.

I like to use these dots: ... to let you know that I am pausing, but I'm not yet done with my thought (I just learned they're called elipses - who knew?)

Put Your Head on my Shoulder....OUCH!

2009-01-20T18:55:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I discovered why Carter has been chomping my shoulder and gnawing on his hands all the while drooling down his chin and pouring from his nose...(sorry, that's probably gross and could be a little TMI)

TWO NEW TEETH!!! He now has two more teeth on the top on either side of those famous "two front teeth" This brings his tooth total up to seven.

He will eat about anything within reach. Or at least give it a good try. It's amazing how quickly he can take down the food. Why he's not a big chunky baby, I'll never know. Perhaps he's just too tall or maybe too active.

I guess I won't be buying baby food much longer. If only I didn't have to buy any more diapers. Is he too young to potty train...?

She's the Best of Both Worlds

2009-01-19T11:03:00.000-06:00

Maddie LOVES Hannah Montana! I mean LOVES her!! For Christmas, she got the Hannah Montana guitar, which she plays ALL THE TIME while she dances around and sings along. (She even carries the Hannah Montana doll around in her backpack wherever she goes.)

For her birthday, she got several Hannah Montana themed items including socks, underwear, a purse, a magic coloring book, trading cards and a music player. Oh, and one of the gift bags and one of the birthday cards even play a Hannah Montana tune!

Between the guitar, the music player, the gift bag and the birthday card, I get my fill of her music. In fact, I find myself singing it everywhere! In the shower, cooking dinner, changing diapers, when I'm settled in for bed at night...and many, many more places.

If I were to be completely honest, I'd have to admit, it's really starting to get to me.

Yesterday, I was explaining to Maddie that I was quickly growing tired of the few Hannah Montana songs that were continually being played over and over again.

Her response to my comment: "Mommy, you CAN'T be tired of Hannah Montana! She's the best of both worlds!"

And there you have it!

I Have NO Idea Where She Comes Up With This Stuff.

2009-01-15T15:38:00.001-06:00

The girls sat down to play with their Loving Family Dollhouse for a little while earlier today. Maddie decided to load the "Loving Family" into the minivan at which time I heard the following conversation ensue:

Loving Daddy (in her best deep voice): "Why do I always have to drive?"

Loving Mommy: "Because I always do the laundry!"

I can honestly say this very conversation has never occurred between the hubs and me.

Do you think that's what she sees? I mean, he does always drive...and I always do the laundry.

(Now that I think about it......I might just be getting the raw end of the deal here! **HUMPH!**)

How Many Rooms do you Have?

2009-01-13T16:47:00.004-06:00

In Maddie's attempt to reclaim dessert lost due to poor behavior, she came up with the following rationale.

Mommy, I have two rooms for dessert. One for today and one for tomorrow.

Right now, I really need to fill the one for today.

She's creative, I'll give her that, but I am NOT giving her dessert!

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

2009-01-10T22:32:00.000-06:00

1. I need a trip. I'm thinking a nice cruise or a trip to a great beach location would be nice...

2. Okay, I want a Shamwow! I've never actually touched one, but if it really works, I could surely sop up some spills!!! Is that thing for real or a sham?

3. The weather here has been driving me crazy. One day I'm wearing shorts and a t-shirt and the next day, it's jeans and a jacket. Which is fine, except the runny noses the cold snaps bring with them.

4. Shopping and three kids doesn't always mix; however, dining out sure does! Maybe it's just my spoiled kids...maybe I'm just fooling myself because I like to eat out.

5. I never thought I'd reach this point, but I actually look forward to taking all three of my kids anywhere (yes, by myself) - just to get out of the house - and see other adults.

6. I will strike up a conversation with ANYONE, ANYWHERE. Extrovert or desperate for adult conversation? That's a good question.

7. Hats off to single moms. I don't know how you do it. When Hot Rod is out of town, I struggle! Somedays, I just don't want to get out of the bed. I can't imagine that being my way of life.

8. Confession time - I still have most of my Christmas decorations up. (shhhhhhh!)

9. People often ask me if I am done having kids. My honest answer...I don't know! Have you met my kids? They're awesome! Who wouldn't want more???

10. Unwrapped is NOT the best show to watch late at night when you have the possibility of waking up your sweet tooth. What's your favorite candy?

I Promise it's Still Winter.

2009-01-09T23:47:00.007-06:00

There's an old saying I'm sure gets used many places (especially in Texas): "If you don't like the weather, wait five minutes...!"

Well, over the past few weeks, it's been back and forth between hot and cold temps. By the time we get comfortable with the "perfect" weather, a cold snap blows thru (usually following a good rain) giving Carter and Mommy a case of the sniffles, runny noses and so on...

Today was one of the better days. In my opinion, it was about perfect --- 70 degrees, partly cloudy, slightly windy. The pictures speak for themselves...

Yes, as a matter of fact, we did stay in our jammies all day.

I think this one looks like the kids are all fighting over who gets to climb the slide first. LOL!!

The girls enjoyed the see-saw (a.k.a teeter totter)

The trampoline (I finally found something positive to the net being "broken" - Never before have I gotten good jump action pictures - But, I'm still upset with the yard guys, don't they do that for a living? Shouldn't they know how to move a trampoline without pulling it apart?)

Carter had plenty of toys to keep him occupied.

The puppy (okay, he's 8, but he's still little like a puppy) relaxed under my chair. Not too different from where he'd be if we were inside.

And Mommy? Well, I started on a new book.

I finally caved. After hearing about it EVERYWHERE, blogland, facebook, friends, family, television, I bought THE book. It's been sitting on the shelf in the study since sometime before Christmas and I decided I could take it no longer. I had to see what the fuss was about.

I get it.

WOW Wednesday (WithOut Words)

2009-01-07T22:59:00.005-06:00

A little game we like to call Hide & Seek. LOL!

(He had no idea she was under there!!)

The Importance of Today...

2009-01-06T23:18:00.011-06:00

Six short years ago today, I officially became a Mom and my life has never been the same.

I can still remember the excitement leading up to the birth of our first daughter, Maddie. She has brought us such joy. I can't imagine my life without my precious little girl.

She has the most amazing ability to light up any room.

Her giggles resound in my head even when she is sleeping.

She is absolutely hilarious.

Watching her grow and mature over the past year has been amazing. She has come so far in school just in the few months since we started. It's hard to believe that my "baby" girl is reading. What's incredible is the fact that I was able to be there with her every step of the way. Together, she and I reached this milestone. Absolutely amazing!!!

She is the most gorgeous little blonde I've ever seen. (I really don't think I'm biased here)

Maddie loves to sing and dance. (Look out Hannah Montana!)

She's always been such an easy going child (after we got past the colic!)

She has this uncanny ability to make people like her. (I think she gets this from her Daddy) In fact, she can convince any adult or teen to play with her. She's just SO MUCH FUN!! And boy does she have some energy!

We celebrated her birthday today (well...four of us did) starting with breakfast at Panera and finishing off with dinner(?) at IHOP.

We had a fantastic day together. I think today she really felt like a Princess.

She enjoyed her favorite cinnamon crunch bagels for breakfast.

A movie instead of nap time (while Carter and Hailey slept) with Mommy was her midday treat. She picked Kung Fu Panda. We truly enjoyed our quality time together **just us**

For dinner, she made the difficult choice between Chili's and IHOP...breakfast again! Our waiter really topped off her day when he delivered a special hot fudge sundae - made just for her.

I think she went to bed happy...I KNOW I will! I just celebrated the sixth anniversary of the second best day of my life!!

I love you, my Princess! Don't ever change who you are. You are perfect just the way GOD made you!!

(P.S. I love you more than that, plus 21 to infinity and beyond, plus one!)

Tall and Skinny

2009-01-05T22:41:00.006-06:00

The girls and I took Carter for his 9 month appointment today.

(the above picture shows off his 5 teeth!!)

Dr. Bel checked him over and was very impressed with his development. According to "the list" he should be (and is) sitting on his own, crawling, pulling to stand, using words with multiple syllables (MA-MA, DA-DA, etc...), waving, responding to pictures, picking up things with thumb and forefinger, holding two objects in hands and hitting them together - well, that's all I can remember.

He eats like a champ! There is nothing he won't try. It's funny, though...when feeding him, we always know what he likes and doesn't like by the faces he makes. This little man has more faces... We're finally starting to get him to drink from a sippy cup, but he still gets choked a little.

On to the real reason you are all here...His current stats are as follows:

Height: 29 1/4 inches (90%)
Weight: 17 lbs 13 oz (10%)
Head: 45 cm (40%)

Like I said, tall (no idea where that comes from) and skinny (wonder where he gets that? LOL!! What can I say, he IS MY boy!)

He LOVES his bath time:

Check out his mad splash skilz:

And I should add...lately, he has become SO kissable. He's gets in these moods where he just gives kisses non-stop. LOVE IT! I don't even mind all the slobber (from teething) and snot (from all the weather changes.)

Well...They ARE Both Green!!

2009-01-04T22:20:00.004-06:00

Hot Rod was helping Maddie get ready to go to the reception for Dad and Tanya a little over a week ago. She had begged to wear the new dress that they had given her for Christmas. So when he pulled the shirt over her head, the collar was up.

In a slight whine, she asked him, "Oh, Daddy...is this one of those frog neck shirts?!"

"No, baby...it's not a frog neck...but it IS a turtle neck."

WHAT was he thinkin'?

2008-12-23T11:02:00.003-06:00

This picture needs a caption, any ideas??

When Maddie was born, Hot Rod's cousins Melani & Curtis gave us the cutest, most cuddly pair of pajamas. Since they were not gender specific, all three of our children have worn them. In fact, Carter has them on in the photo above. I'm kind-of thinkin we might need to replace them...what do you think?

And while we're on the subject of Carter, I feel like I should mention he has added a couple of new teeth to his collection. So now he has both his top two front teeth. (the left one came in on Saturday) On Sunday, another one on the bottom popped thru. I noticed it while we were driving through Prestonwood looking at Christmas lights. That brings our tooth total up to five. He's eating anything he can reach to put in his mouth. (Which is not necessarily a good thing. He has an attraction to shoe strings!)

BTW - if you are in Houston, you should really check out the house that has the lights set to blink with music. I could just sit and watch it. Plus, they have a Santa that moves around in the window. That's pretty neat too.

The girls have asked Hot Rod and me if we can do that to our house...I told them, "we'll see." (Such a typical Mommy answer -- LOL!!)

When I was younger (much younger)

2008-12-18T23:50:00.000-06:00

I remember playing lots of fun games: Ring Around the Rosey, Duck Duck Goose, Red Light Green Light and.....TAG.

Well, folks it appears I've been tagged - TWICE! In one week! No fears, I'm ready!

First lets tackle the "Crazy Eight" meme that my friend D'Lyn tagged me with:

Eight shows I watch

1. How I Met Your Mother (If you don't watch this one...you should!!)
2. The Big Bang Theory
3. Desperate Housewives
4. American Idol
5. Biggest Loser
6. Two and a Half Men
7. Scrubs
8. CSI: Miami (or NY)

Eight Favorite Restaurants

1. Chili's
2. HB Japanese Steakhouse
3. Logan's
4. Pappasito's
5. EJ's Pizzeria
6. Pei Wei
7. TGI Friday's
8. Chick-fil-A

Eight Things that Happened to me today

1. Woke up at 4 AM to play with my 8 month old (Argh, 8's!!!)
2. Enjoyed Maddie reading to me during school
3. Took advantage of "Happy Hour" at Sonic (Route 44 -- Oh, how I've missed you!)
4. Experienced 2 girls with NO naps
5. Washed, dried, folded and put away LOADS of laundry
6. Ate dinner at Logan's
7. Visited Santa (pictures to follow) at the neighborhood clubhouse
8. Cuddled with Hot Rod on the couch - w/o a baby in my arms

Eight Things I Look Forward to

1. Weekends
2. Time with Hot Rod
3. Christmas
4. Birthdays (any of my immediate family)
5. Seeing my Mom again
6. Our Disney World vacation
7. Cuddling my babies (all three of them)
8. Shopping

Eight Things I Wish

1. That my children will live Christ-centered lives
2. And they will marry Christians
3. We lived in a neighborhood with acreage
4. That I had more time to cook
5. And I had more time to sew
6. I could throw things away
7. I enjoyed cleaning - since I "get" to do it so much
8. That Hot Rod will be here on Christmas Day

Eight People I Tag

1. Mrs TD @ The TD Family
2. ErinKH @ Who's at the Helm
3. Laural @ Laural Out Loud
4. Mrs De Miranda @ The Road Less Traveled
5. Carly @ Our Family of Four
6. Euphrony @ Euphrony Rambles
7. The Character @ The Character's Craziness
8. Erinlo

Second, my friend ErinKH tagged me to post my Christmas Decorations. Actually, it was originally a pic of my front door. Since I don't really have anything more than just a simple wreath that I snarfed from my Mom's old Christmas decorations, I decided to pick just a few of my favorite decorated spots from the around the house.

So, without further ado (just felt like saying that) here they are...

Our tree:

((Ooh, that picture came out dark!))

The girls' tree (they decorated it themselves):

((Shoot! I forgot to turn the lights on!!))

My village (this is my favorite spot!)

Did you see Elfie? He's sitting on top of the Pharmacy.

So, Kelsey, Sharon, & Heather - Ladies, show me your stuff!!

I think tomorrow I'll take better pictures of the trees when it's light outside and post those, but until then...

...TAG, you're it!! Be sure to add a comment so everyone can read your post!

Up High, Down Low, In the Hole...

2008-12-16T11:35:00.002-06:00

I forgot to mention that Carter has gotten rather good at giving "FIVES"

He doesn't care if it's high or low, just don't expect him to stick his finger in a hole 'cause I think he's still too slow.

I Slept Alone Last Night

2008-12-15T09:07:00.003-06:00

...well, Hot Rod was there, too. BUT, all three of my children slept in their own beds.

ALL...NIGHT...LONG

Yes, this is the longest Carter has ever slept. 10 1/2 hours straight!!! Saturday night, he slept 8 hours straight. Before that, I had only gotten typically 4 or 5 hours.

This is probably the most rested I will ever be for the next 18 years.

I am NOT kidding!!! WE...HAD...SNOW!

2008-12-11T08:47:00.015-06:00

I can't believe I'm actually writing this, but...it snowed yesterday. Kind of makes "Dreaming of a White Christmas" more attainable.

The kids were all down for a nap when the flurries started to fall. Oh, to have video of this crazy Momma running around like a wild woman trying to dress three kids (and herself) warm enough to brave the outdoors before the snow stopped falling! I'm sure that would make a much better post.

Here are a few pictures - you know, for proof!

This is the snow falling in front of our house:

Snowflakes keep falling on my head...

Carter even had a few flakes on top of his little cap!

It really showed on the top of the stroller

Here are the girls running around with the neighbor kids. If you look closely, you'll see a few neighbors in front of the other houses in the cul-de-sac.

We had so much fun!

Thank you, GOD, for snow!!!

Side note: I called Hot Rod to tell him about it...he was in a meeting. About 2 minutes later, he called me back, "Who would have thought that YOU could break up one of MY meetings!" Apparently, they were all eavesdropping on our conversation and decided to take a break to go outside to enjoy the snow. You're welcome, Honey!

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

2008-12-10T12:16:00.001-06:00

1. I've been in a state of blahs lately. I haven't felt like doing anything. In fact, for a week now, I've had to force myself to do the smallest things. I don't know what it is, but I think it's fading. I've started to get my "oomph" back. I'm blaming it on the weather...and being sick.

2. Speaking of the weather, what is with this ridiculous Houston weather? I mean, I've lived here my entire life and I still cannot get used to it. I know what to expect. It happens every year. Besides, where do you think the following quote came from: "If you don't like the weather, wait 5 minutes, it'll change" Yep, Houston, Texas! It is hard to get into the Christmas spirit when the weather is 75 degrees. (That was yesterday...today's a whole nother story -- COLD!) YAY, break out the hot cocoa.

3. I love the Starbucks Peppermint Mocha that comes out this time of year! My hubby is such a sweet man, he figured out how to take a simple hot chocolate drink and make it minty. Being the awesome man that he is, he made it for me to help get me out of my "funk"...at least, that's what I'm telling myself.

4. With the birth of each child, we wondered how in the world we could possibly love another child so much. How in the world would there be enough love to go around? Now that the children are "one up" on us, we can't imagine life without any of them. It seems that you find room in your heart to love each one of them for who they are.

5. Maddie, at 5 (almost 6) years old is a second "mom" to her younger brother and sister. She is very helpful to Mommy and Daddy - especially when it comes to her siblings. She loves to care for Carter and entertain him. When it comes to Hailey, she couldn't have a more perfect playmate. All girls should have a sister. (I should know, I have 3!) She's doing well in Kindergarten and is proud of herself when she successfully reads her papers for school.

6. Hailey, now 3 years old is my cuddler. I have to soak it all in while Daddy is at work or traveling because she is a major Daddy's girl. (Drives me crazy! If it were up to me, they'd all snuggle up to me on the couch every night.) She can pick up on things quickly when she has the desire. Just a few days ago, she said, "I dropped my baby and I catched it." Daddy corrected her that is should be caught. The very next day, she was playing and said, "I catched--I caught it." So proud! You won't find better manners than this little one.

7. Carter, a whopping 8 months old...not that you'd know that to look at him. He's always looked older for his age. It's funny to hear people say, "He looks like a little man! He doesn't look like a baby anymore." (Truth be told, he never looked like a baby...okay, maybe when he first came home and for the first month) He's a strong little boy. He continually amazes me with his physical abilities. I keep waiting for him to just stand up and walk over to me, but he is still just crawling - and FAST! Unfortunately (for everyone else - not me), he is a Momma's boy. Drives most people crazy. If I am anywhere in the room, he wants to be held by me. I don't mind. I'm afraid one day, he won't want his crazy Mom around. So, for now, I'll just soak it up!

8. "As Seen on TV" - this just cracks me up! Who comes up with these crazy things that they sell on television. And don't even get me started on the bearded guy that pushes them all. He ALmost makes me believe in the amazing power of whatever product he is peddling. I can hear him now: Just look at the (grass, chocolate, red wine, you name it) stains lift right out of this bright white shirt - it looks just like new! OR This putty can hold a two-ton truck being towed. OR Just watch how it melts away hard water, lime, rust, and mildew from this old tub. IF ONLY...

9. Someone should write songs for Independence Day that make everyone feel the way that Christmas songs make you feel during the Christmas season. "Line the rockets in a row, fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la! Light a match and watch it glow, fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la!" and "City sidewalks, busy sidewalks, dressed in red, white and blue. In the air there are fireworks glowing" and let's not leave out "Sparklers, sparklers, hot dogs all the way. Picnics by the bright moonlight it's Independence Day!" (Don't blame me for the shotty lyrics...I'm a singer, not a song writer!)

10. It's been a while since we've gone to the movies...until recently. We took all three kids to see Madagascar 2 - SO GOOD!! Now, I am dying to go see movie after movie. I can't wait to drag Hot Rod out to see Four Christmases. I don't know about any of you, but it looks hilarious to me.

He's Happy and You'll Know it...

2008-12-09T22:39:00.004-06:00

Carter has learned (he must have picked it up from his friend, Justin) how to clap his hands.

Two Sunday's ago, we were in the "Baby Care Room" at Church with Danielle and Justin watching Justin show off his latest talent: Clapping! As of that point, we hadn't really worked with Carter on clapping his hands, but from that day on, he thinks it's hilarious to clap his hands whenever he hears someone cheer. YAY!!!

And he just LOVES when big sister Maddie sings "If you're happy and you know it, clap your hands!" He claps right along. Sometimes, he even squeals with delight.

Thanks, Justin...clapping is fun!

The Truth Tooth Hurts...

2008-12-09T22:27:00.002-06:00

Why are little pieces of grass or fuzz so appealing to little hands and mouths? Must all babies pick up every spec of anything they can spot and cram it into their mouths? And WOW, they HAVE to have the best eyesight EVER...because they always tend to find things that I can't even see. (It makes me feel better to think it's just because they are closer to the floor where those specs reside.)

Well, yesterday, we found something new in Carter's mouth. Tooth number three - on the right in the front, his first upper tooth has finally poked through the gums. That would explain the massive amounts of drool pouring from his mouth non-stop. And his desire to chew on just about anything...Mommy included. (Ouch!)

I'm havin' one of those days.

2008-12-04T16:42:00.003-06:00

Ever had one of those days where you just don't feel like it? Well, I've been having a couple of weeks like that.

I've got lots to post on the blog, but I just don't feel like it.

I've got cleaning to do...Christmas decorations to display...laundry to finish...dinner to make...projects to start...projects to finish...Thank you notes to send out....I could go on, but I JUST...DON'T...FEEL LIKE IT.

Maybe I've just got a case of the BAH-HUMBUGS!

Can anyone out there provide me with a little inspiration?

I know it was wrong...and I'd do it again!

2008-11-26T10:01:00.004-06:00

Riding in the car with my kids can get a little crazy.

We were on our way to meet Daddy at work last night to eat dinner and do a little shopping when this conversation began...

Maddie: Mommy, Hailey said Toot-toot. (It's something that I don't like them to say. It is not said to be funny, but unkind or rather disgusting.)

Hailey: I did not!

Me: Girls! Hailey, don't say that. Maddie, stop tattling.

Me, again: You know who knows whether you did it or not - for sure?

----------------GOD!

----------------and Santa Claus!

Hailey: Sorry, Sissy!

I know it was wrong, but it worked, so I'd do it again! Don't judge me...

The Hands of a Two-Year-Old

2008-11-21T15:11:00.009-06:00

This is a two-year-old:

These are the hands of a two-year-old:

Lotion left within the reach of two-year-old hands becomes this:

A camera in the hands of a two-year-old produces something like this:

Markers, scissors and glue held by two-year-old hands compose masterpieces such as this:

Sometimes, the hands of my precious two-year old come together like this:

Or even like this:

And in the kitchen, like this:

Tomorrow these little hands turn three and I just can't wait to see what their future holds...

My little Hailey-Bug, I love you and I hope your birthday is just as fantastic as you!

Three Special Wishes

2008-11-21T14:53:00.003-06:00

Today is an extra special day. We honor two very special people. Poppy (my Daddy) and Paw-Paw (Hot Rod's Dad) celebrate their birthdays today.

So, raise your glass and help me toast two of the greatest Christian men I've ever known.

Happy Birthday Poppy/Daddy and Paw-Paw may you have many, many more years to come! We love you.

Tomorrow, Poppy will marry his sweetheart, Tanya (Nanna to my kids) She is a wonderful woman who brings happiness to my Daddy where once there was sadness. Congratulations you two! May you celebrate many happy years together.

I Decided to Just FACE it!

2008-11-18T16:42:00.001-06:00

It's time for me to admit...I was wrong. It doesn't happen often. (The admitting, not the being wrong part!)

For so long I've been spending my computer time in Blogger. I have my bloggy friends to read about and to share with. Lots of my friends IRL have blogs - and I read them almost as soon as they are updated.

And all this time, there's been this whole other world out there.

I just didn't get the hype. But everybody kept on talking about it.

I held out for as long as I could. I refused to get involved. I was NOT going to let it invade MY space (tee, hee...)

So, I decided to check it out. Now, I get it...But, I can't stop. I have found friends from high school, pals from college, people that used to attend church with me who have moved out of state, and even people who live across town that I just haven't kept in touch with over the years. (Even some of you were out there before me)

And that, my bloggy friends, is where I have been.

FACEBOOK.

I officially have no more room in my schedule for any more online addictions. (I mean, naptime is only so long...)

Consider me all "BOOKed" up.

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

2008-11-10T21:54:00.005-06:00

1. I'm glad that Carter is starting to get more independent. He's finally playing on the floor more by himself so that I can do things without having to carry him everywhere. Although, I must have some really strong arms...and back for that matter!

2. I think it's funny how many people ask me if the girls are twins. Obviously, they're not. I mean there is a 3 year difference in their age. But if they are sitting down, I can kind of see why. Like in this picture:

3. Hailey is turning 3 in less than two weeks! I remember her birth like it was yesterday...it's hard to believe time can fly by so quickly.

4. I'm trying something new. I've got to get a handle on things around the house. It's so easy just to play with the kids or on the internet. So, I have a plan. One that will help me get organized. One that will help me clean. One that will (hopefully) keep the Hubs happy.

5. It's hard when you've got three kids and you don't want one to wake up the other two while they're sleeping at naptime. The best way to keep him from crying is to hold him while he sleeps. So, I just hold him. (Now, before any of you "Baby-Wiser's" start in on me in the comments section, keep in mind that I went from working outside of the home to staying home, homeschooling, and a new baby all in one swoop - I'm still getting used to this whole thing! Give a Mom a break)

6. Speaking of Moms...I really miss mine. I wish she was here. For so long I looked forward to the day when I could quit work. The day that I could visit with her all day long without worrying about a schedule. The day she could teach me to sew and to cook and bake and make candies. The day that finally came, but didn't. The day that came without her. That day is now, that day is here...but she's not. And there's this hole. This huge gaping hole. One that will never be filled. And in a way, I don't want it to be filled.

7. I think my luck might be turning around. Just the other day I managed to outrun my little dark cloud. Hot Rod met up with the kids and me at Chili's for dinner on Friday night. After dinner, he took the girls home and I took Carter to the grocery store. The Hubs called me while I was shopping to tell me that Maddie informed him once they got home that she had lost her shoe getting into the car to head home. And he wasn't going back for it - could I run by and see if I could find it? Of course, I had to! It was a shoe...I am a woman...you do the math. Anyway, here I am thinking "How in the world will I ever find a small pink Croc in a Chili's parking lot, on a Friday night, during the dinner rush?" I drive into the parking lot down the side where I knew he had parked looking for an empty spot to pull in so I could get out and look around. Lucky for me, there was an open spot and two other people getting into their cars to leave. Even luckier for me, I look over into said spot and there was that stinkin' shoe. I am NOT kidding. It was like God knew I needed it. That is the only way I can justify what happened.

8. Boys are born stinkers. Carter does things that Maddie and Hailey never did. He grabs and pulls hair, he grunts at people, he bangs on things (computers included) I could go on. Then, when I get annoyed with him and say (in that "Motherly way") "Car--ter," he gives me that little grin. As if he's saying, "I know Mommy, but I'm just too cute for you to be mad at me!" And he's right.

9. Funny...I love the sun. I love the way it shines in through the blinds during the day. I love how it makes everything outside look when it's out from behind the clouds. I love the warmth that it gives. I love that I never have to shovel its heat from my driveway so that I can go somewhere. But then, I also can't wait for the cool weather to come so I can wear those long sleeve t-shirts 'cause I think sometimes I love them more than the sun.

10. I also love the 10th of the month. I enjoy my randomness. Since I'm a SAHM, I don't get all my visiting done during the day, so it's kind of a nice way to 'talk.' It doesn't matter how long these 10th posts get because they're numbered. You can either read the whole thing word for word or you can skim the list and if something catches your eye, read it. I don't really care...as long as you leave me a comment when you're done. :)

He is OutSTANDing!

2008-11-06T15:03:00.002-06:00

I'm behind in my updates...Carter has been crawling around for a few weeks now. In fact, he's gotten so bored with just crawling or sitting on the floor playing that all he does is crawl to the nearest spot where he can pull himself up to stand.

He pulls up on everything...couches, tables, toy boxes, and even Mommy's legs! (or anyone else for that matter)

On the left, it's the ottoman and on the right, Aunt Cheryl's legs at our Sunday night Connection Group.

More recently, he has been stopping in the middle of the livingroom floor in an attempt to stand on his own. And he's getting close!

Before we know it, he'll be running up and down the stairs! Where does the time go?

The Closest Thing to a Political Post You'll See on My Blog...

2008-11-03T09:39:00.004-06:00

Dear Candidates,

Please stop calling me. I have come to hate the sound of my telephone ringing - especially during naptime.

You will not persuade me to change my vote. My mind is made up. In fact, my decision was made months ago. There's no going back. All you're going to do is wake up my children while upsetting and frustrating me.

It's bad enough I am forced to watch your television commercials if I wish to enjoy anything besides the Disney Channel.

And lets talk about these TV spots you've been running. Can you not talk just about yourselves and what you plan to do if elected? Must you really slam on your opponent? 'Cause to me, that seems a little 'high school' of you. Seriously, are we not all adults here? Just the facts, guys.

In this day and age, with all the internet and Google (oh, Google, how I love thee) don't you think we can research anything we need? There aren't any secrets once you enter a public office. You can kiss your personal life goodbye when you start campaigning.

All your dirty little secrets you think you'll be able to hide, we'll know about them - whether we want to or not.

Your financial records, your charitable donations (or lack there of), your heritage, your work/military experience, and your family. It all becomes our business.

I'm an informed voter, I did my homework and I know which candidates are best suited to do the job. So, please stop calling me.

Besides, I voted early last week...

No Tricks Here...

2008-11-01T23:43:00.009-05:00

I just love this time of year. I really enjoy seeing all the kids dressed up. What other time of the year do kids (young and old) get to dress up like whatever they want? It doesn't matter if it's something that they want to be when they grow up or something that they'll never be, it's just plain fun pretending. And they ALWAYS look cute. Take these three for instance...

We "suited up" and headed over to the Halloween bash at the rec center in our neighborhood. We were pleasantly surprised. Okay, so the bat-shaped ice sculpture was a little much, but they had hot dogs, nachos, Frito pies and lots of candy! We jumped in moonwalks, slid down the inflatable slides, and took down the inflated obstacle course. (No, really, while the girls were climbing through the last time, the thing started to deflate. It was a mad scramble to pull all the misc children out - actually quite humorous from the sideline - if I do say so myself!) We took a hayride, danced (Note to self: Enroll Hailey in dance class, she LOVES it and seems to have some natural ability to groove.), had our pictures professionally taken and....

The girls got to hold a real-live monkey! Her name was Abby Grace. She was so sweet and waaay cute, see?

Check out this proud look on Hailey's face. Sorry, Bug, we can't get you a pet monkey for your birthday! The clown that owned her (I'm not being tacky, she was dressed like a clown, sheesh!) had her all decked out in a cute little dress. Oh, and her little ears were pierced.

I had to include this photo. My caption, "In the jungle, the mighty jungle, the lion sleeps tonight!"

What?! Too long? Well, what would you caption it?

We left the party to go do a little Trick or Treating. The girls had a blast going door to door ringing doorbells. Although, I found it quite nice that lots of folks hung out in their driveways, yards all decorated, large bowls of candy, just waiting for all the kids to come by. National Night Out's got nuthin' on Halloween!

You Put Your Left Arm in, You Put Your Left Arm Out...

2008-10-28T23:43:00.004-05:00

Right through the front door window.

Girl's got an arm. She may be only five, but she can really pack a punch.

Can you believe she walked away with a tiny scratch so small I could hardly see it?

Methinks He Doth Protest (too much!)

2008-10-21T21:59:00.001-05:00

So, I'm guessing applesauce is not high on Carter's list of favorite foods.

(Sorry for the poor quality of the pictures, but it's not easy feeding a baby with one hand while taking photos with the other.)

What do you think?

Catching the Wave

2008-10-17T14:14:00.001-05:00

Saturday will mark two weeks now that Carter has been waving. Sometimes it's "hello" other times "goodbye" and then, on occasion, I think he's trying to say "more." (We're working on correcting our sign language skills, but it works for him now.)

It's really rather adorable. He almost looks like he's trying to fly!

Take a Breath, Child!

2008-10-14T22:59:00.005-05:00

This morning Maddie was explaining why I needed to wash her purple blanket.

"Mommy, I need you to wash my purple blankie. Remember when we went to the park with Daddy and Hailey and Carter to that park where we went with Princess TD and Little TD, but not the same day that we were there with Princess TD and Little TD, but after we went and had our pictures taken before we went to Poppy's house and then to Grammy and Paw-Paw's house and I got all sweaty and used my purple blankie to wipe my sweat? It's dirty!"

A mother's work is never done.

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

2008-10-10T00:26:00.001-05:00

1. Staying home with my children is so much more rewarding than working. I worried how I might feel leaving work to stay home, but I am glad I did.

2. I do wish there was a way I could contribute monitarily to our family, but I know that I am contibuting in other areas. (And right now, I have no desire to jump into one of these "Really, it's not a pyramid" and "You can't beat working from your home and making your own hours," and then, "Trust me, you don't have to be a salesperson" only to learn that you have to beg your friends to host parties in their homes so that you can sell things to people and convince them to sign up to "not sell anything" as well. The next thing you know, people are avoiding you because they think you are going to hit them up to buy something or host a party in their home. Not that there's anything wrong with that...it's just not for me.)

3. Sometimes, I feel like I am working harder now than I ever did at any "paying" outside of the home job.

4. The 4 people I am working for can be quite demanding at times. Not so much the boys as the girls. I wonder what that means?

5. Often, I feel like I am lazy. I'm not really sure why...Must just be part of getting used to my "new" situation. Or it could be that I'm busy ~~blog-hopping~~ ~~playing computer games~~ ~~watching TV~~ holding the baby too much. (that's a whole 'nother post for a whole 'nother day!)

6. I love to watch Maddie learn. She's starting to read and she loves sounding out the words. She's learned that Daddy will pay her for words that she is able to read to him. I am so glad to not be missing out on these accomplishments.

7. I must admit, I was (and still am) a little nervous about Maddie's learning being all on my shoulders...but on the other hand, it is fun.

8. The girls are a lot like me - they enjoy "craft time" Anything involving paint, glue, scissors, etc...is more fun than watching TV, and almost as much fun as playing outside.

9. We don't have all of the beautiful fall colors here, but the weather has been fabulous outside lately. Now if we can just kick those pesky mosquitos. (Why must EVERYthing in Texas be bigger?)

10. I'm so looking forward to Halloween...I love when my kids get to dress up as someone/something else for a day. They're always so cute. I also enjoy seeing my friends' kids. It's fun that for just one day kids all across the country get to be whatever they want -- even if it is just make believe!

Made in China

2008-10-05T20:22:00.005-05:00

Friday night we celebrated the 2nd birthday of our neice, Emma.

Aren't China dolls precious!

Mid-Year Stats

2008-10-02T14:45:00.001-05:00

Hard to believe it, but our little man turned 6 months old on Monday! He is getting so big so fast.

Current measurements:

Height: 27 inches (75 - 90%)
Weight: 15 lbs 14.7 oz (25%)
Head: 43.8 cm (50%)

Here's a recap of what we've accomplished over the past 6 months:

Smiled (around week 3 and he hasn't stopped yet)
Laughed (7/5)
Rolled over (7/21)
Trip to the pool (8/1)
Two teeth (8/26 & 8/29)
Big boy food - aka solids (Squash, Green Beans, & Carrots) (Starting 8/30)
Rocking on hands and knees (mid-September)
Sitting up (9/21)
Said Momma (9/24)
Said Dadda (9/25)
Military crawl (9/28)

Look for me to be posting soon about the crawling. He's been up on his hands and knees rocking back and forth for quite a while now and has about mastered the backwards military crawl. He's pulling up on everything and likes to walk with someone holding his hands.

DADDY, it's time to get the baby gates back out!!!

Love You MORE...

2008-10-01T07:49:00.000-05:00

Today would be my Mom's Birthday (That's Junior's Grammy to the kids - her dog was named Junior so that's where Maddie came up with that name) .

We miss you, Mom! And I love you more...

Conspiracy Theory

2008-09-30T20:15:00.004-05:00

So...I was on time this morning. I got up, showered, got ready (hair, make up, clothes) got the kids ready (all three) and was out the door and on my way to Ladies' Bible Class. ON TIME!!!

Now, some of you may remember my little dark cloud. Apparently,I've still got it.

I got maybe 10 minutes from the Church building and heard Hailey exclaim, "I'm dunna frow up!" I whip into the first parking lot I come to, throw the car in park, jump out of my seat, grab her towel and...I missed it! Yep, it was ALL over her and the car seat. Better yet, she tried to stop it with her hands and deflected it into my hair and onto my shirt. Fun!

I really didn't want to completely ruin the morning and after this happened, I desperately needed sympathy from the Ladies in my Bible class so I decided to press on.

After a 30 minute stop off at Target for some new clothes and a replacement towel for the car, we were back on the road and I was a mere HOUR late. (Okay, so an hour when referring to tardiness cannot be considered mere. It's a freaking hour! Of a class that is only an hour and a half long!)

HUMPH -- Like I said, I'm just not able to be on time. I think I'd rather be late on my own than late because I had trouble getting where I needed to be. I think I will just stop trying...

It's a conspiracy, I tell ya! They are all working against me. You know who "they" are. (Oh, who am I kidding? No one really knows who "they" are.)

Two Men and a Lady

2008-09-28T22:53:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was my birthday...I am officially --- one year older. (You didn't think I'd divulge my age, did you?)

So, I had a nice day with two of my favorite men - Hot Rod and Carter-man! What a great day out shopping at the outlet mall. We were able to find coordinating clothes for the whole family so that we can get our family portrait made next weekend when we go get Carter's 6 month pictures.

I had a nice break from my crazy daily schedule with all three kids. After lunch, the girls spent the day over at their Aunt Laurie's house so that Mommy and Daddy could have a relaxing day out.

Lately, I have been handling the kids all on my own from getting them up, fed and dressed to getting them bathed, teeth brushed and to bed. It was starting to wear on me and I really needed a "stress" break.

Hot Rod has been traveling a lot with work over the past few months. It's amazing how even just having another adult in the house can improve things. I must brag on my dear sweet hubby. He does so much around here - helping me get/keep the house clean, feeding the kids, discipline, etc, etc...

I had no fancy meal, no trip to the theater, no movie...just good quality time with my very best friend. What a wonderful birthday!!

She said, He said...and he did it AGAIN!

2008-09-25T22:12:00.000-05:00

While I was getting dinner ready yesterday for the girls and me, Carter was sitting in the kitchen just hanging out. He started to get upset and was jabbering a bit and then, he said his first word!

MA-MA!

I know - fluke, right? That's what I thought, but still I got excited and scooped him up. He was looking right at me when he said it! Did you say Momma? Totally made my day!

But, it wasn't a fluke. Nope, he said it again. After dinner, I had him sitting in the living room playing while I cleaned up the table and kitchen. The girls were playing around him and when he decided he had enough...

MA-MA, MA-MA!

Sorry, Daddy, but I won this one!!

It's awesome...except I didn't get to revel in it long.

Here's where the story takes the unfair twist.

Daddy stayed home with us a little while this morning since he had just returned from being offshore. Carter was sitting in the bed with me while Hot Rod was standing beside us talking waiting for the shower to warm up. Carter looked up at his Daddy and...

DA-DA!

Yep, and he said it again. Oh well...at least I can say he said Momma first.

WOW Wednesday (WithOut Words)

2008-09-24T07:00:00.001-05:00

Okay, not so much without words just more pictures than long paragraphs...

One of my favorite pictures

Here is Carter's latest trick. He finally gained the perfect stability this past Sunday

If you look closely in this next photo, you can see his two pearly whites

He's growing up so fast!

Goodbye Heat & Noise...Hello A/C & Quiet

2008-09-16T13:29:00.006-05:00

It's so great to have power in the house. Fortunately, we thought to pick up a lot of ice to store in our big freezer before the storm even headed this way.

We lost power just after 1 AM on Saturday morning. Waaaay before we expected. Really, we thought the wind would pick up more before the power went out.

Everyone was down for bed in the Master Bedroom. We figured by putting Maddie's mattress on the floor in there and Hailey's bed in the corner, we could avoid little girls flinging our bedroom door open and running into our room crying.

Wind really started to pick up around 3 AM. Boy was it loud in our room. The wind was whistling and the windows were popping. We were afraid that they were going to crack. The rain was coming down hard too.

It was really starting to get HOT!

Hot Rod went to the other side of the house to check things out. He came back to report that the volume across the house was significantly lower and the temperature was slightly cooler.

It was time to move.

We drug Maddie's mattress, Hailey's mattress, and one of the swivel rockers into the hall. By this point, the kids were wide awake. Daddy and Mommy were worn out. We hadn't been able to sleep much due to the high (AND LOUD) winds and heat. The girls read through the pile of books we had borrowed from the library and still were not ready to settle back down.

Finally, we had to make them just lie still. Maddie curled up with Mommy and Carter and Hailey found a spot on the couch across from Daddy in the gameroom. Eventually, the winds died down a bit and we were able to catch a few Zzzzzz.

Saturday, we walked out to find one tree that fell over, the back fence that almost completely knocked over and some possible roof damage. We're still waiting on the contractors to come check things out for quotes. (Pictures to follow...)

Saturday night was another hot one. We went up to Hot Rod's office and set up beds in his office so we could sleep in some cool air for the night. We had been there for about an hour and were just settling in when we received a phone call from a neighbor letting us know our power was back on. Since home is more comfortable, we packed up and headed back to the house.

The house had already cooled off, so we got the kids in bed and settled in.

Just in time for the power to go back out.

And stay out.

ALL NIGHT LONG....

It finally came on Sunday morning about 8:45 AM and stayed on. YAY!!

Sunday, Hot Rod was able to get the tree back in the ground. It looked like the ground just got so soft that the roots got loose and with all the wind, the ground wouldn't hold.

We had a few scares with the electricity flickering - we were afraid we would lose it again. We didn't.

Aunt Laurie and Emma spent the day with us until they received word they had electricity.

Monday, Poppy joined us since he still had no electricity. Which brings us to today, Tuesday.

The girls had an absolute blast dragging Poppy all over the house and eventually out into the backyard to play.

It's all quiet in the house now. The kids are down for a nap and all our company has gone home. Daddy is at work and Mommy...Mommy has to go do some cleaning now!

We Have Power!!!

2008-09-14T17:06:00.003-05:00

Whew...the power came back on around 8:45 this morning. Praise GOD! We have been in the heat since we lost power at 1:00 AM Saturday.

I'll post more later when I'm in the mood, but for now we're all okay! I've got a few pics to share as well as some stories.

P.S. If you have arrived here from a link off a friend's blog and you speak to them, please let them know that we are open to company. There's plenty of cool air and water to go around...

When you're bored and you know you should be in bed...

2008-09-12T23:29:00.005-05:00

I can't sleep.

I'm bored.

I'm also very ready for this storm to pass. Why is it that even though watching it on TV bores me to death, I am physically incapable of changing the channel? It's like when you see a car accident and you just have to look...you can't turn away.

I know I should go to bed, but I think that deep down, I am trying to soak up every little second of electricity.

I'm totally prepared for the power outage. We've got plenty of food, water, and other supplies. (I've never seen so many batteries together outside a store in my life.) I even made sure to get over to the library Wednesday and checked out 20 books that I could read to the girls.

The weatherman is cracking me up. Apparently, I'm not the only one awake waiting for this creep of a storm to pass through. Frank (the NBC Weatherguy) said that people are saying, "Where's the storm?"

Uh, folks...it ain't quite here yet! Hold on to your hats. And if you venture outside, perhaps you should leave those hats indoors. The wind is picking up and I can hear that all too familiar whirring sound outside. eerie...

I really can't complain. The whole household is sound asleep. It's fairly peaceful (aside from the television I'm currently glued to) Best of all...my little man is curled up with his Momma! I cherish every moment the two of us spend "cuddled" - for one day, he will be "too big"

I SO DO NOT!!

2008-09-12T20:55:00.007-05:00

So, do you remember in history class the campaign slogan "I Like Ike!"?

I sooo do NOT! (Like Ike that is.)

We enjoyed an evening outdoors with the neighbors. The weather was fairly cool with a nice "breeze"

Back indoors, the wind was just enough to knock out the electricity for a brief second which killed our U-Verse and Internet connection. I felt lost! How ever would I know when the storm would hit? It had to come back up!!!

After dinner we headed back out to enjoy a beautiful sunset from our driveway. The clouds were just perfect for an awesome reflection of the sun. (I'll try to get some pics from the neighbor - I've got my camera on the charger to make sure I have plenty of juice for the after storm photos)

Obviously, now that we are inside hunkered down watching movies and I am online...our service is back. YAY!

In just a few short hours while we sleep (all 5 of us in one room), high winds will blow over and I expect that power lines will be down. It will be dark and hot...hopefully, I will be sound asleep.

Please let me be sound asleep......

The Calm Before the Storm

2008-09-11T16:38:00.004-05:00

It's here, that calm before the storm. Earlier today, there were several places that it was not. Like for instance, Walmart, Randalls, HEB, etc, etc...you see where I'm goin' right?

Fortunately, we had bought most of our supplies early in preparation for Gustov, but we got low on a few things (mainly milk and just our everyday supplies) and so Hot Rod stopped off to get those items on his way home from work around noon today.

Earlier(around 9:30 AM), he ran out with his boss looking for a window a/c unit to go with their generator to keep at least one room cool in their house should they lose electricity. (Hey, Bill, if we lose electricity, we're comin' over!!) The sights he described in the stores did not surprise me. Full parking lots, empty shelves, lines that stretched from the front of the store to the back...

So, I decided to join in on the fun. Crazy, right? I HAD to get the kids out of the house before we were stuck at home. If you've never had cabin fever, you don't want it, trust me! Anyway, I loaded up the kids, held my breath, and headed over to Chick-fil-A. (Yes, I am THAT crazy!)

And you know what we found? A line at the drive though that I always dread waiting in. Still holding my breath, I pull into a front row parking spot (odd) unload the children and go inside to find...

A Ghost town! I am not kidding. There were about 5 other families. This was noon straight up folks! I can only guess they were out doing some last minute shopping.

Uncle JMike and Aunt Laurie, Cousin Emma, and a Friend met us there for lunch. We played for hours. It...Was...Fabulous!!

Sometimes, it IS Golden!

2008-09-06T14:33:00.006-05:00

Dear Imagination Movers ~

I ~~think~~ (no, I know I do) I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE you! Your new show started today and frankly, I was worried it might flop. But to my surprise...it was fun. See, my daughters (5 and 2) pause when your "music videos" come on between shows on the Disney Channel. Then, they just start dancing. All over the place. They "jump up, get down, turn around" and so on...It's just pure excitement. I must admit, I've been known to join them a time or twelve.

Well, I had forgotten about the debut of your show (which I was extremely excited about) and I also forgot to set the DVR. In my defense, Daddy left early Friday morning to go hunting and wasn't set to return until noon Saturday which left me to hold down the fort on my own.

Then, this morning, it happened again. My boy all trying to grow up too fast for Mommy again, decides to wake up crying his eyes out cutting yet another tooth, I'm sure. Maddie comes in wide awake and then all the commotion wakes up Hailey. So here I am half awake with 3 kids ready to face the day. Three teething tablets and one dose of Tylenol later, I decided to climb in the shower.

I don't know why, but for some reason, my girls are LOUD. Like they have only two volumes extremely loud and asleep. So this Momma was really needing a break from it all, and then, I heard it! YOUR SHOW...in the distance.

"The Imagination Movers are on!" I exclaimed. The girls ran to see...and then, something wonderful happened.

I...HAD...PEACE!!

I finished up getting ready and went to check on the girls - because anyone who has children, or who has even been near children, knows that silence (although golden) could be a sign of trouble.

What I found was the most amazing thing ever! My two precious little girls snuggled side by side in my bed, quiet as little mice, glued to the TV watching your show.

For my twenty minutes of silence, I thank you! You are my new heroes.

Your biggest fan,

We Do Love Our Friends!

2008-09-05T22:38:00.008-05:00

Yesterday, we spent some time with our good friends, the TD Family. (well, 3/4's of the TD Family - Mr. TD was @ work)

What's so great about this family for us is all the things we have in common.

Maddie and Princess TD are about 6 months apart (although, to see them, you'd think that Princess TD was a couple years older - she's actually the younger of the two) and Hailey and Little TD are only two weeks apart in age. We have the best play dates!

Hot Rod, Mr. TD and Mrs. TD are all Engineers. I'll admit, the three of them are the most organized, detail-oriented people I know - I like to think I'm somewhat organized, but I know that if I forget something, one of them for sure has remembered it. (Especially Mrs. TD, she thinks of everything!!) And sometimes, these Engineers actually let me win at cards!

Hot Rod and Mr. TD both enjoy fishing, grilling and frankly, I don't really know what else since I ~~lose interest~~ (sorry Honey!) don't always pay close attention.

Mrs. TD and I, well...I think we just "get" each other. We're night owls - apparently, neither one of us enjoys getting up early. We're not your typical girly-girls. Don't get me wrong, we'd both jump at the opportunity for a full day at the spa, but we can survive an extra month without getting our hair done.

Which leads me to my story: I was putting the girls to bed last night when I asked which one of them was going to say the prayer. Both girls jumped at the opportunity - which was bizarre because usually, only Hailey will do that. I'm not sure what happened, because Maddie had gotten so good at saying them. I told the girls that Maddie would go first since she's the oldest and then Hailey could say her prayer.

It was too cute, Maddie's prayer went something like this, "Dear God, thank you for today...(and on and on)... Please help 'Princess TD's' bo-bo on her forehead to get better...Thank you for Mommy, Daddy, Maddie, Hailey, Carter and most of all Jesus. In Jesus name, Amen."

Wow! We do hope you heal soon, Princess TD!

(proud Mommy!)

Am I Late Yet?

2008-09-04T22:43:00.006-05:00

Everywhere I go there is a little dark cloud that follows me around. I didn't ask for it, I definitely didn't go looking for it. It just found me....and IT...WON'T...LEAVE!!

This morning, I had plans to meet a friend for breakfast and pick up her son so that she and her daughter could make dentist appointments.

Anyone who knows me knows that I am.......notoriously.......LATE! It's not that I don't care or that I don't make my best effort at being on time. I just cannot manage to do it.

I'll admit, a good bit of it is me. I'm a night owl and don't like to get up in the mornings. When I get up, I'm in a great mood, but getting up is just....plain...hard! You won't find me staying in bed 'till noon, but I would prefer to get up @ 8 AM. I really WANT to get up at 6 or 7, eat my breakfast (maybe have a little cup o' joe - yuck!) and read a little bit of my Bible waiting for my children to get up. ((Okay, maybe that's not realistic with a nursing baby, but a girl can dream...))

Anyway, if I'm supposed to be somewhere in the morning, I struggle. Here's the kicker (remember the dark cloud...) Sometimes, I'm actually ON TIME!! Yes, I can dress four people, round up a dog and get in the car on time (like this morning when someone was relying on me). But then (here's where the dark cloud comes in) something goes wrong. I never know what it will be. Could be heavy traffic due to an accident or lights being out, could be my precious two-year-old's car sickness that I have to stop and clean up, could be a train, or could go a little like this:

So, I got up this morning around 7ish, showered, got ready, fed the baby, dressed all the kids, rounded up the dog, rearranged the seats in the Expedition (to carry 4 kids instead of 3), got everyone loaded up and ready to go, climbed in the truck, shoved the keys in the ignition and.... hold on to your seats....are you ready........?

NOTHIN'.....not a click, not a whirr, nothin' The truck would....not....start! little dark cloud

I call the hubby, and call the hubby, and call the hubby...finally, he calls me back and heads toward home to help me out. (I'm so glad he works close to home.) We couldn't jump start the Expedition, so we all hop in the Vue and head to take him back to work. (Meanwhile, my friend, yep...still waiting...)

On the way to Hot Rod's office, we encountered...A TRAIN! little dark cloud (see where I'm goin' here?) We get him to work and we're on our way.

Things were finally going well ('cept I was starving - reference above where we were meeting for breakfast)

So, I'm cruisin' along and the 2YO says, "Mommy, I'm gonna throw up!" little dark cloud I fly across two lanes whip the car down a side street, throw it in park, jump out, grab a towel, catch the mess in the towel (we always keep one in the car for this very reason) bag the now very soiled towel, jump back in the car and off we go! Whew, wears me out just typing it!

Fortunately, we made it and I was able to help my friend with her son.

Now a side note to all my dear friends out there: If ever you're (patiently) waiting on me because, frankly, I'm notoriously late, just pray that Hot Rod is not in a meeting, the train is short, and the towel is clean. Oh, and thanks for keeping me around in spite of all my flaws! And remember, sometimes, it's actually NOT...MY...FAULT!

Starts with Squash, Ends with Mush

2008-09-01T21:16:00.010-05:00

I finally made it to the store to pick up some jars of baby food for Carter on Saturday night in preparation for his ~~desire to grow up too fast~~ momentous taste of something other than the same ol' (breast)milk.

Here is the little man after his first bite of butternut squash on Sunday. He had me a little worried at first with this lovely face you see to the right.

Eventually, he was grabbing my hand and pulling the spoon to his mouth.

Once it had become apparent he was done with his dinner, I gave him a little dessert. Yes, it was a biter biscuit. Yes, the box recommends 10 months. AND...Yes, he's supposed to be sitting up before he gets to have them. But what else can a boy with teeth hold and eat all by himself?

He's so independent already! He did absolutely great!! What a mess he was when all was said and done. He had biscuit mush all over his head and hands. I was so proud of how well he was able to take down that treat all by himself.

Not Another One!!

2008-08-29T23:00:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, Baby Boy had another crying fit that Mommy couldn't stop. I thought, surely he wasn't getting ANOTHER tooth!

Sure enough, this evening he pulled my finger into his mouth for a teething toy as he loves to do. I started rubbing my finger across his gums which always makes him smile and...

Lo and Behold, ANOTHER TOOTH!

Carter now has both his right and left front teeth coming in on the bottom. He is so ready for food.

Tomorrow, he will get to enjoy his first taste of squash. Why squash? Because both the girls thought it was the tastiest of all the veggies. Not like those nasty peas.

I am so not ready for this...

I's a Dood Mommy!

2008-08-28T23:24:00.003-05:00

Yep, that's right!! According to my 2-year old, I'm awesome!

While helping me give little brother a bath this evening, she proclaimed, "You's a dood Mommy!"

And you know what? I really needed to hear that! I've been having one of those weeks where I'm feeling a little like a failure...Not really a good Mommy at all.

I've always appreciated my sweet Hubby for all he does. I hope he realizes how much help it is to me even when he just plops down on the floor with the kids and gives Mommy a little break. When he's not around, I struggle to get even the simplest things done.

I salute you single moms out there! I don't know how you do it, but God bless you!!

IT'S NOT COLIC!!!

2008-08-26T23:32:00.005-05:00

Carter was sitting with me today and as he often likes to do, he grabbed my finger and shoved it in his mouth. He started chewing - what better teething toy is there? As I usually do, I started feeling around on his gums.

EUREKA! A TOOTH!!

Our little man has cut his first tooth (bottom right front) This would explain the colic-like symptoms that he was exhibiting last week. (Okay, he was only crying - which has since subsided)

Oh, the flashbacks to child #1...evenings spent walking the floors - non-stop crying (sometimes all three of us!) from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM every night.

He had me worried...he's supposed to be my easy baby!

I have been holding off on giving him anything other than what he gets from nursing. (Okay, so he gets the occasional TEX-MEX), but I don't think I can hold him off much longer. I wanted to wait until he was six months -- Mostly for selfish reasons -

1. the diapers: oh how nasty "real food" makes those diapers!
2. previous experience: I had to work so hard to nurse the girls since I was having to work and pump...
3. the added mess: bibs, extra clothes, dishes
4. Cost: price of nursing = $0, price of food = I can only imagine
5. I rather enjoy my special time with him! Nursing is something only I can do with Carter!

And so begins the dreaded growing up of my baby boy...

Because I AM THAT Crazy!

2008-08-25T22:55:00.007-05:00

Pardon me while I wipe the tears from my eyes. I just can't believe that ~~my baby girl~~ Maddie started Kindergarten today!

It wasn't so bad though...she didn't actually GO anywhere. I made the difficult (maybe a little crazy) choice to homeschool - at least for Kindergarten. She's never been able to stay home with Mommy since I've been working from the time she was 6 weeks old.

For the first few years of her life, she hung out with my oldest sister, Laurie. (For Maddie, it was like visiting an amusement park everyday!)

The past two years have been spent in preschool. She's learned a lot and done quite well for herself, but she's always wanted to stay home with Mommy...

When we made the decision earlier this year for me to quit my job, we started discussing options for Maddie's schooling. She's only been to private Christian preschools. With only one income, that is no longer an option. We live in a great school district and several parents rave about the elementary school she'd be attending, but that wouldn't give Maddie much time with Mommy.

We bit the bullet (WAIT, I bit the bullet! Daddy still leaves for work! WHAT HAVE I DONE?!)

All kidding aside, today was a great day! Maddie was actually disappointed when I told her we were done with school for the day. She wanted to move on to tomorrow's lesson.

I can only hope that the rest of the week goes so well...

Here's Your Sign!

2008-08-25T21:58:00.005-05:00

We desperately needed milk this evening, so I headed over to Walgreens to ~~rent a free movie at Redbox~~ pick up a gallon.

As I was paying for my purchase, the young girl behind the counter looked at my three beautiful children and asked me, "Are they ALL yours?!"

WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?!?!

They were being good. I mean, they had their usual energy, but they weren't causing a ruckus. They weren't even drawing any attention from the other customers.

So I responded, "No, I like to give my neighbors a break and take their children to the store for a few minutes. Everyone should subject themselves to shopping with other peoples' offspring. Here's your sign!" Bill Engvall would be so proud of me!

Okay, so that's what I wanted to say. I just smiled and said, "Why yes, they are!"

You know those moments where you should just stop there and say, "Fav a nith day!" (Or whatever 'Have a nice day' would sound like with your foot promptly shoved in your mouth)? Yee-ahhh, apparently, her Momma didn't teach her manners 'cause her next response was, "Good Luck!"

WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?!?!

I DON'T NEED LUCK!! I have WONDERFUL children. So, I laughed that uncomfortable laugh - you know, the one where you really want to turn off your brain to mouth filter and act like Karen from the sitcom 'Will and Grace' and start saying whatever pops into your head? I promptly removed my precious angels from the store and drove home.

I wonder what's going on at this store? Never a dull moment...

Only in Texas

2008-08-25T00:43:00.001-05:00

I'm so proud of my boy! He's already learning to love the finer things in life - TEX-MEX food!! Saturday night he enjoyed his first taste of refried beans.

We enjoyed great Mexican Food and quality family time.

Say Cheese!

Even the Butterflies Love Him!

2008-08-24T22:55:00.004-05:00

Friday, Daddy took the day off to spend some time with us as a family. He's been traveling so much lately, that we were just itching to hang out together. We drove downtown and after running up and down the hill at Miller Theater, we headed over to the Butterfly Exhibit at the museum. We got there just in time to see some of the new butterflies released into the garden. As soon as we reached the bottom of the stairs in the garden, this beautiful "Rice Paper" butterfly landed right on Daddy's shoulder. (I'm always sayin', "Everybody Loves Hot Rod!")

Then, it moved over to me, where Daddy (the better photographer of the two of us) took this photo. ((side note: it is suggested that you wear bright colors, I must amend it to say...WEAR RED!))

Here is a great shot of our little "Honeys" perched in the play area beehive. The girls had so much fun running around buzzing all over the playroom.

I couldn't resist posting this sweet picture of the little man. He's getting so close to sitting up by himself!

It was an awesome day. Thanks, Daddy...we love spending time with you!

You're Still the One...

2008-08-21T01:01:00.012-05:00

Exactly nine years ago today, I moved in with my best friend.

And you know what? Hundreds and hundreds of our closest friends and family joined us for a big bash to celebrate. (Really, I have proof!!) It was one of the best days of my life!

So now I raise my glass to my wonderful husband in celebration of our union.

My love for you is deeper now than it ever was before.

If asked how much I love you, I'd simply answer, "MORE!"

More today than yesterday, and the day of our wedded bliss.

Still more than the day that you and I shared in our first kiss.

I love the way you hold me close. I love your gentle touch.
I know that no one else has ever cared for me so much.

I celebrate our friendship as together we grow old.
And hope for those who read this to know a love so bold.

Darling as you go to bed each night, I want you to be sure,
That with the passing of each day, I love you even MORE!

WOW Wednesday (WithOut Words)

2008-08-13T23:33:00.008-05:00

Who can resist a sleeping baby...?

Maddie's artwork during a recent trip to our favorite pizza place (EJ's)

You didn't think I'd leave out the middle child, did you?

WOW Wednesday (WithOut Words)

2008-08-06T23:35:00.001-05:00

Carter's first trip to the pool. (8/1/08)

He loved the water.

Oh Edouard, Silly Storm!

2008-08-05T23:21:00.001-05:00

We weren't afraid of you. But we sure did enjoy the rain...

(Don't worry, there was no lightning)

Sorry, Little Buddy...maybe next year!

Supercali-WHAT?!

2008-07-31T23:31:00.005-05:00

At bed time, Maddie has decided that she wants me to sing new songs to her that she doesn't know.

I can remember when I was younger, I had my own record player and records (does that make me old?) with tons of songs on both sides that I would play over and over in my room. That was always so much fun for me.

I have tried to recall these songs, but I just can't remember all of them. Plus, most of them are the songs that kids are still taught in school today. (i.e. "The Hole in the Bottom of the Sea" & "There was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly", etc...)

So, I've resorted to the fabulous Mary Poppins. Maddie's two favorites are:
"A Spoon Full of Sugar" and
(as sung by Maddie herself) "Superfralicagilisticgetmeoutofdocious"
In Maddie's own words, "I am NOT kidding"

While bathing the girls this evening, the conversation went down like this:

Me: Maddie, repeat after me. Brother is sleeping.
Maddie: Brother is sleeping.
Me: What does that mean?
Maddie: What does that mean?
Me: Funny...now what does it mean?
Maddie (smiling and with a giggle): Be quiet...?

She gets it AND she's funny. Oh, how I love her...I must not be doing too bad at this Mommy thing.

Deaf, Numb or Desperate?

2008-07-30T23:25:00.001-05:00

I'm beginning to think that this week is Crazy Shopper Week. Do all the insane people come out for Back to School shopping?

Today, I stopped by Walgreens to pick up necessities (okay, it was Blue Bell ice cream & Coke - don't judge me--Rod's out of town! BTW: for those of you not from TX, you MUST try Blue Bell Ice Cream - it is THE creamiest EV-ER!!!) My Daddy was with us and he asked me to drop off his prescription while I was in the store. I was patiently waiting at the Pharmacy counter when someone said - "a Raccoon!" That was an expression I had not heard before, so I turned around to see who was behind me only to find a woman holding a Raccoon. Not a cat, not a dog, a Raccoon!!! (Danielle, maybe she can help you...apparently, she has about 10-15 of them at home) This strange 'pet' was kissing this woman incessantly on the cheek - the way an excited dog would do - Sure wish I had my camera - I knew you guys wouldn't believe me...

Yesterday, Carter and I went by Target to pick up a couple of things that we needed (No, it wasn't ice cream or Coke this time.) While we were browsing the aisles, there was another woman with her children. I counted four - which in my opinion is not really THAT many, but still more than I'd want to take shopping. They appeared to range in age from about 15 months to 15 years. I guess I expected that the 15 year-old would help out with the others - yeeeah, not so much!

They were quite loud. I swear they followed us around the store making my pleasant experience with a sleeping child more like what it would have been had my two crazy girls accompanied us.

At one point, one of the screaming children, perhaps 3 years?, was beating a drum begging to take it home. To which the Mommy replied, "No, just play with it while we are in the store." To which I replied (silently in my head), "Yes, please...that's what I'm here for loud banging noises!"

So, a few minutes later, I'm in the baby dept browsing for...nothing in particular when I hear (just above the whining and fussing) "You're such a brat!" I look over at the shoe dept where I see the 15 year old screaming at the 3 year old. All the while the Mom is carrying on like she has no idea that the kids are even there. Well, except the 10? year old that she is begging to come and try on shoes. It was obvious he had no interest in shopping this day. Never once did she stop to correct them in any way.

And I wonder....

...is she deaf?
...could she be numb to it all?
...might she just be desperate to get the back-to-school shopping completed?

After mumbling under my breath, "SERiously?!"...I thanked God for my beautiful children.

Lesson learned: Perhaps I should be more thankful for
1. my well-behaved children*
2. my wonderful husband who does a good bit of the shopping
3. fabulous family members who are always around to entertain my children so I don't become the 'Crazy Target Mom' I saw today.

(*No, my children are not perfect, not by any means, but never, ever have they embarrassed me the way I would have been if I had experienced today's 'Crazy Target Mom's' trip. I like to think that's because Rod and I have taught them to show us respect and well, just to behave!)

Maybe tomorrow I should just stay home...

4 - 42.6 - 26 - 14 & 9.7

2008-07-29T23:36:00.006-05:00

Got your attention? You wondering if I have lost my mind? (I know, there wasn't really much to lose...funny!)

Today, our little man Carter turned 4 - 4 Months that is! How did we celebrate? I took the sweet little boy to be tortured at the doctor's office. He was cooing and smiling and jabbering non-stop. He showed off all his talents for the nurse. Holding his head up while sitting assisted, putting weight on his legs, bringing both his hands together, smiling at her, etc...In fact, he also threw in a six-month milestone - reaching for and grabbing ahold of stuff. He really is a strong little guy. Way to go, Buddy!

He cried the entire time the nurse was administering his 4 shots. I was relieved that the 5th was an oral medicine---only to find that he decided it was not worthy of consuming. Carter 'rejected' it along with his mid-morning meal all over his clothes. Thank goodness I keep the diaper bag well stocked!

Since he was displaying his talent of drooling and bubble blowing for the doctor, she took a look in his mouth to see if she could find any emerging teeth. I must say, this Mommy was happy to hear none would be coming through soon. She did mention that we could start on some solid food whenever we were ready. That's exciting, but I think we'll wait just a little bit longer. He's growing just fine on Mommy's milk for now.

Doctor Bel was very pleased with his stats.

Head: 42.6 cm (50 -75%)
Height: 26 in (75 - 90%)
Weight: 14 lbs 9.7 oz (50%)

Yes, my child is THAT big! And I couldn't be more proud.

Letter from Carter

2008-07-24T13:44:00.011-05:00

Dear Family and Friends,

I noticed there's a new boy in the house. I've seen him around a few times. Don't worry, I'm not jealous. In fact, I rather like him. According to Mommy, he's downright adorable. I did notice that it seems like Mommy is always holding him which is confusing because I can feel myself in her arms and hear her voice in my ear.

I was standing in front of him today (with lots of help from Mommy) and went to give him a kiss. He kissed me back, but his kisses weren't warm like the ones that everyone else gives me. He felt very cold - almost like he was behind a piece of glass.

He makes me smile. It's good to have another little boy my age in the house. I hope that once we're both able to sit up on our own, he will play with me. I'll be mobile soon and I'm not so sure my sisters are going to be so crazy about me getting into their stuff. Besides, it's all girly - with the dolls, bottles, bows, and pink, pink, pink!

So, about this thing Mommy calls "tummy time" - I'm not so crazy about it. Not really sure what it's supposed to accomplish, except make me cry. It's frustrating that I cannot just get up and crawl away. Today, I tried to lift my arms and legs up off the floor, but still, I could not fly. I concentrated really hard. I bet Mommy could see the determination in my face.

Those toys that she puts on the floor beside me, I have figured out how to pick them up. I just keep trying to eat them. They don't taste very good, but chewing on them makes my gums feel better. Mommy calls it "teething" I'm not sure what that means, but I think it might change what I get to eat. I see big people putting things into their mouths all the time, but they don't typically pull them back out. I think that has something to do with eating. I hope to be able to do that someday. It's got to be better than just having milk all the time - BOR-ing!

I do prefer being on my tummy instead of my back though. Monday, when Mommy laid me on my back and was trying to put my socks and shoes on while talking on the phone to Poppy, I decided to give her a hard time and so I rolled over on my tummy. Instead of getting upset with me, Mommy was very excited and praised me for a job well done. She doesn't put me down on my tummy very much and so apparently, this was my first time to roll over. She was very happy and gushed on the phone to Poppy how great it was.

Life is great for me. I am very happy. Everyone I meet is so nice and always talks sweet to me. I can't help but smile and "talk" to everyone I see. When I first entered the world just under 4 months ago, I cried. I was in a comfortable place. It was warm and cozy and I did not want to leave my home of 9 months. I cried very loudly. I wanted the whole hospital to hear me. But then the doctor person handed me over to this woman I call Mommy.

I spend most of my time with Mommy. She takes great care of me. Everywhere Mommy goes, she takes me along. It seems she is the only one who can feed me right now. There are these things called "bottles" that I do not like. I refuse to drink from them. And don't even try handing me one of those "paci's" YUCK! Mommy says I make ugly faces when she tries to give me one. I always spit it back out.

We had lunch with Daddy today. Well, Mommy had lunch with Daddy. I just had to sit and watch. Mommy says that I look a lot like Daddy. In fact, most people say I look very much like my Daddy. When he holds me, I really like to check out his hair. Daddy talks to me a lot. His favorite thing to say to me is "I hope you like what you see 'cause in 30+ years, this is what you're going to look like." My Daddy is a funny, funny man.

Have I mentioned my sisters? I have the absolute BEST sisters in the world. My oldest sister, Maddie, is very nurturing. In the car, she tries to quiet me when I'm upset by talking to me and holding my hand. When we get home, she loves to help unbuckle me from my carseat (with Mommy's permission) and take off my socks and shoes. It makes me very happy to be free. My other sister, Hailey, is FUN-ny! She makes me giggle. I don't know what it is, but I can't help but laugh at her sometimes. They both like to help Mommy get "diapers and wipers" for me. It's great to have sisters.

Well, It's time for me to take a nap, but I have asked Mommy to include a picture of my new friend for you all you see so you will know him when you see him.

Love to all,

Carter

I'm gettin' Creative!

2008-07-20T23:30:00.001-05:00

So Wednesday, I joined in on my first class discussing the book by Lisa Welchel: Creative Correction. I really enjoyed myself probably for several different reasons:

1. It's a pretty good book so far.

2. I had great female adult interaction.

3. I have homework each day that will require me to get into the Bible more.

4. My girlfriends CRACK ME UP!

5. Lisa actually has some good ideas of ways to include verses from the Bible when disciplining my children. By using this technique, I hope that they will learn it's not Daddy and me alone, but the wisdom of GOD through HIS Word that guides them in how to live.

6. My friend Ms. TD is doing a great job leading us and keeping us ~~chatterboxes~~ girls focused on the topic.

7. I'm not the only one in the room who is still nursing and has to bring my son with me because his dinnertime falls in the middle of class.

8. I enjoy learning new things that help me be a better Mommy.

WOW Wednesday (WithOut Words)

2008-07-16T13:17:00.002-05:00

Sisterly love

Who needs sleep? Not me!

2008-07-15T23:08:00.007-05:00

So, the saga continues another day. It didn't start out so easy today.

At about 3:30 AM, I hear the creak of my bedroom door and it's Maddie...

Maddie: Mommy, I need to go to the bathroom
Me: So, go!
(back again)
Maddie: I don't want to flush it because I don't want to wake up Daddy.
Me: Go flush the potty!
(truth is, she does not like the sound of the toilet - any toilet - flushing)
Maddie: Can you take me back to bed now.
Me: Sure (In my mind I'm thinking: Hey, why not, I'm only half asleep now - who needs sleep? Obviously not me! I don't work...)

So, I take her back to her room - thought I saw something on the floor, but in my state of mind, I thought I was just seeing shadows - and back to bed for me - YAY, 3 more hours of sleep!

Maddie: Mommy, it smells in my room. I can't sleep in there.
(Again, in my mind, I'm thinking: Clean sheets, she's got clean sheets - how can they smell and at this point, Carter is awake, so I'm feeding him and I'm just too tired to deal with a stinky room)
Me: Just sleep in Hailey's bed. (Hailey had already joined us in our bed - because she woke up disoriented - 3 hours in her own bed, not bad - we're getting there!)
Maddie: Can you cover me, I can't cover myself very well.
WHY NOT, remember: I don't need sleep anymore...

...I slept in.

Don't get me wrong, I got up dressed the girls, loaded them into the Expedition and sent them on their way with Daddy to Aunt Stephie's house for the day. Then, I went back to bed. Turns out, I DO need sleep...Who'd have thought?

The girls had a great time today. They went to the mall and played, they rode the carousel and had lunch at Chick-fil-A (I'll never forget Maddie called it Chicken Yay for the longest time - so cute!) After lunch, they all went to the pool for a swim. Boy were they tired. Both girls were in bed an hour early. Nice! Hailey asked if she could go back again tomorrow. Sounds like a plan to me. What do you say, Steph?

Today I turned my attention to the kitchen. And one more load of laundry - Maddie's sheets, again! Some time in the middle of the night - lets just call it 3:30 AM, she got sick. Which would explain the spot I thought I saw on the floor and the "smell" she reported that was keeping her from her sleep.

What did I accomplish today while my little man slept? 1/2 of the Kitchen and Maddie's room...we'll do pictures tomorrow.

I'm really enjoying myself. It feels so nice to have so much energy to clean. I never knew sitting behind a desk/computer could drain me so much.

I am loving this SAHM thing...

Just call me Mommy-Sue

2008-07-14T22:23:00.007-05:00

So, Monday was my first official SAHM day! I had a great day with my little man. We started our day off with a quick breakfast together. (He nursed while I ate) Anyway, after that we had some wonderful Mommy-Carter time talking and smiling at each other. Then, I laid out his quilt made by the wonderful quilters at Church for him to have a little tummy time. Check out those bright fun colors!

While he coo'd and drooled, I spent my time here:

Now that I'm not "out" making money, I've got to earn my keep. (No, my Husband's not making me -- although, he would be disappointed if I sat around all day, I'm sure!) It's my personal goal over the next couple of weeks to go "room by room" cleaning the house. Not just picking up and putting things in their proper place. CLEANING! We've both been so busy with work and the kiddos we haven't had a chance to keep up with the house as well as we'd like. And boy did I clean...I got down on my hands and knees and wiped down the baseboards. I Lysol'd the windowsills, mopped, dusted (with Pledge) and made sure not to miss any nook or cranny.

Did I mentioned I washed, dried (remember BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!) and folded 5 loads of laundry. Yep, we all slept with clean sheets.

Which room will I tackle next?

10 things I'm thinking on the 10th

2008-07-10T22:22:00.004-05:00

1. So, tomorrow is my last day of work. How is it I can be excited and sad and nervous all at the same time? I've been there 10 years - a whole decade! I've seen a lot of changes, met a lot of people across the country, watched those people come and go. Now it's me that's going. I'm just gonna be "Mommy" How exciting is that? I'll miss all the friends I've made and maybe I'll miss the daily adult interactions outside of the home, but I'll no longer be missing my babies. Totally worth it!

2. I HATE MY DRYER. My clothes dryer that is. I shouldn't complain because it was free. We've actually been lucky enough (here's where I knock on some wood) we have yet to have to purchase one. Perhaps I say that to hope to have to, but then (I'll refer you to #1) I don't think it's in the budget. Let me explain...recently, something happened and either the machine won't stop running or the buzzer won't stop buzzing - depends on the cycle you use. So, before I remember to check on it, BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!! I'm getting tons of "exercise" leaping out of my skin, I mean, from the chair and racing into the utility room to stop the beast and it's incessant roar.

3. My little boy ain't so little. So, at just under 3 1/2 months he is 14 1/2 pounds! Such a change from my girls who were tiny. You know the boy is big when the doctor says, "Don't bother waking him up to feed him, he seems to be gaining just fine!" I'll just say - my Boy hasn't missed a meal yet.

4. Girls are whiny. At least mine are. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my girls. I love them LOTS! And I must add, they are quite adorable. But, man can they complain. Anyone else have girls that can find something wrong with every piece of clothing down to their socks? A typical morning might go something like this:

me: Maddie, let's get your shirt on.
Maddie: But, I'm tired.
me: I know you are, but the quicker you get your shirt on, the quicker you can lay back down
Maddie: Awww...
(we get the shirt on and the conversation continues)
Maddie: I don't like this shirt, it's too short.
(I must interject here that the shirt goes past her waist)
me: It's fine Maddie.
Maddie: No, it's too short (as she attempts, unsuccessfully, to pull it down over her knees)
me: you'll be fine, let's get your socks on
Maddie: Okay, but I want the short ones
me: that's what I have
(once the socks are on...)
Maddie: Mommy, fix the bumpies, there are bumps on the sides of my toes.
me: Maddie, all socks have these, there is nothing I can do (and I really do try to fix them for her)
It goes on and on...her shoes have bark (from the playground) in them, I've put them on her too tight, it hurts her head when I brush the tangles in her hair - really, I think the only thing I've figured out is the shorts or uniform skirt.

5. There must be a reality show for everything. There are so many that some are actually very close duplicates. (American Idol, Nashville Star, America's Got Talent, etc) Some of them, I enjoy (Amazing Race, Biggest Loser, American Idol -yes, I'm a dork), some freak me out (The Baby Borrowers, The Bachelor, Big Brother - can't bring myself to watch these) Really, is that all we can have on TV for the summer - perhaps I should buy a book - or maybe I should just read The Good Book!

6. Dieting is hard! There are too many yummy things that are no-no's. Does anyone know of a diet that includes Cokes and chocolate?

7. I am one lucky gal. Not only do I have three precious children, but I also have a wonderful Husband. He's got to be one of the most supportive people I know. He doesn't expect me to do all the housework or take care of the kids by myself. He might cook dinner or even help me bathe the children. He's even been seen doing laundry from time to time. (Sheets and towels, of course!)

8. Going to the movies is expensive. We have been discussing taking the girls to see a movie - (we're thinking Kung Fu Panda, which was only rating PG for the Kung fu scenes) I love to go to the theater with the larger than life screen, but the cost sure adds up fast. It's so hard to GO to the movies, when I can OWN it for less than the cost of two adult admissions!! $8.50 per adult ticket, more than $5 per child ticket, and then we'll have to have snacks, popcorn $7?, drink $4?, candy $3? Almost sounds like a MasterCard commercial - all I need to add is "Spending quality time with the family: Priceless!"

9. Gas prices impact everything. (I hear you - "News Flash!!") I'm starting to worry that I'm going to see an awful lot of the inside of my house. That only means that our electric bill is going to go up. The more I'm at home, the more I turn on the air, the more I turn on the air...well, you get the picture. The cost of a gallon of milk is now less than a gallon of gas (never thought I'd see that day) Anyway, I'm watching our grocery bill increase and prices for everything else going up...inflation! It's like 20 years of the cost of living increase happening all in one summer. I don't know if this is a recession or not, but it sure does stink!

10. Sometimes, I only have 9 things to think about. This might just be one of those times! HA!

He Can't Help But Stare!

2008-07-03T14:48:00.004-05:00

So, 2 1/2 year old Hailey refused to go to sleep until I turned him around. She told me he was staring at her. You'd think I was referring to her Daddy's deer mount, but NO, it was this:

How can she be scared of a stuffed puppy with a rose in his mouth?

I do have to say this is probably the strangest baby gift we've ever received.

WOW Wednesday

2008-07-02T23:10:00.004-05:00

(WithOut Words -- almost)

Colored tongues...our favorite thing about popsicles.