Love, Life and Marriage

Another school year

2011-08-15T08:16:00.000-07:00

Another school year approaches and I am ,yet again, surprised how quickly the summer went by. My kids are growing too quickly. Their personalities evolve daily it seems. My daughter is 10 going on 15. Sometimes I am left with an openmouth at her sarcastic remarks. Oh how I dread the teenage years. But I am hoping that our close rapport will see us through the rough patches.

Today I will head out to buy school supplies and marvel at the cost :) Clothes are just unbelievable to me. My son is no problem, but buying clothes for my daughter is already a costly venture! She is ready to be 16 and work at the mall...so she can get a discount, good thinking love :)

Hope this post finds you all in good health. I know it has been a loo-ong time since my last chat, but I hope to get back into it, especially since both kids will be in school all day this year. What am I going to do??

Floating

2010-03-22T06:55:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like you were floating through your life? It is a strange feeling to feel like you aren't "all" there. I have had a hard time lately. Largely because I would love to go back to work and finish school. Unfortunately the cost of child care makes it unpractical to do that right now. I can take courses at night, but the working mom thing doesn't seem to work for our family. At my daughter's school I know moms who work and moms that stay home. I have to say the stay-at-home moms are less stressed and more in tune to what is happening at the school at any given time.
The working moms seem to have more energy and alot more to talk about!

Is there a happy medium or is it a catch-22 that you have to pick sides of and be happy with your choice?

I went back to work a few months ago. I loved it, the people, the energy, the feeling of being useful. But the household went FLOP! So I am back home and will remain so until my son is in school full time.

Here's what gets me....I enjoyed feeling useful. There is so much to do at home and many areas to be involved in through the school, why have I stopped feeling useful in those areas?

Old Friend

2009-09-02T12:06:00.000-07:00

Oma's assignment today:

Homework: Pick one or the other, or be inspired.

~Read something on your book shelf for sheer pleasure.

~Blog about a book you've read over and over. Prompt: "I can rifle the pages of ____and easily find my favorite part about____."

Reading for pleasure is something I do without thinking about it. I cannot remember a time that I didn't want to pick up a book, grab a cup of coffee and snuggle down into another world. Even as a child I loved to get lost in literary worlds. The characters became confidants as I escaped my sometimes turbulent childhood. (Nothing too dramatic. My parents divorced when I was 11, but separated several times before that.)
My father was seldom interested in our day to day childhood experiences. I cannot remember ever playing a game together. However, he enjoys reading and passed this along. For that I will always be grateful. When I was 13 he bought me a set of books based in the pioneer days. He must have been nervous; buying a set of books set in "old times" for a young girl headed into her teen years. But they were wonderful and full of lively characters. I read the series in its entirety about once a year or two. There are favorite books and passages, but once I start them, I have to finish. The "Love Comes Softly" series by Janette Oke sit beside Pride and Prejudice, Hamlet and my John Grisham books.
I love the simplicity of this time period. Oh, they had hardships that we would be hard pressed to face today, but they were tougher in spirit. The simple act of constructing a school for their country children is inspiring and makes you realize that we have so much to be thankful for. What we take for granted now, and often complain about, was hard won back then. Janette Oke did a follow up series starting with "The Tender Years" and I also have this on my shelf. I love her storytelling and style.

If you would like to participate in School Days, look up Travelin Oma for your assignment

Back 2 School - Oma Style

2009-08-31T06:47:00.001-07:00

I was sitting here trying to figure out transition sentences for my essay when I came across the most interesting blog post. (I know, I get distracted from my work) Travelin Oma is doing a "School Days" series through her blog. It not only looks fun, but the writing practice is exactly what I need! I hope you decide to join me!

Homework Assignment:

The first time I entered blog land I came across Adventures of a Relunctant Housewife, that sold me then and there. What a phenomenal idea! I am here doing laundry, cleaning house, preparing meals, and feeling underappreciated by society. And I am not alone. I began my blog HappyBaker to share my love of baking, cooking and recipes. Soon I realized I had more to say than comments about food, so I began this blog. Overboard? Maybe.

If I were to write my memoirs, my name would be Sara. It is a pseudonym that I have used even for this blog. The people who know me best could definitely pick me out of the stories I would tell.

A title for my memoir would be tricky. Maybe "Forgotten Joy", "Forgotten Pleasures", or .......

Please see Oma for future assignments.

School's Out

2009-05-30T15:24:00.000-07:00

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

School is out for 2 1/2 months for me and the kids :)

I have been neglecting my blogging to focus on intersession classes. comp class in 2 weeks is insane but I am glad it is behind me now!!
In the fall I will take comp II and a history class. Why on earth did I let fear grip me for so long? This has turned out to be so much fun!!

Hope you all have a safe and fun summer!!

Facing Fear

2009-03-31T19:51:00.000-07:00

You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, 'I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.' You must do the thing you think you cannot do.
Eleanor Roosevelt

This quote is one I have been looking to for the past several months.
Deciding to take risks is always hard, at least it is for me.
If something seems out of my reach, I tend to back down.
My hubby has been a source of encouragement and for that I love him more each day.
Going back to school is a big deal for me. I am 2 classes down and it feels great!
It no longer feels like it is out of reach! How empowering!

White Wonderland!

2009-03-28T11:16:00.000-07:00

That's what it is like her today!
We are covered in a blanket of snow, about 4 inches and counting. Hubby was too excited! hehehe You would have thought it was Christmas morning! The kids got up and went out with him to "catch snowflakes on their tongues". I took pictures and videos, smiling at my snow covered trio. While they played, I made blueberry muffins, scrambled eggs, malt o'meal and sliced up a cantaloupe. I called them in to eat and warmed them up with coffee and cocoa.

What a wonderful day. It feels like we have frozen time for a moment and made a special memory......

New Discovery for me

2009-03-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

I have been introduced to Jason Mraz's music and it is fabulous....or at least I think so! Check him out on YouTube and let me know what you think.

Hubby is reading Kite Runner, he likes it so far but he said there are parts that are sad and would be hard for me. He did comment on how well it is written. Have you read it?

Read On!

2009-03-24T08:13:00.000-07:00

I have been reading quite a bit lately. Where do I find time to do that you ask?
Waiting at ballet class, soccer practice and for the arrival of hubby's bus in the evening. i realized I had pockets of time that I could fill up with reading.

The last few that I have read are:

SisterChicks Go Brit! by Robin Jones Gunn
I have always dreamed of seeing London and this book transported me there! I loved the adventures these two women found themselves in. And they have given me a few places to add to my "must-see" list. I will get there one day.....

The Next Thing On My List by Jill Smolinski
This was an interesting and fun book. There are a few sad parts but the ending leaves you happy.

Sailing To Capri by Elizabeth Adler
I am not usually a fan of mystery type books, but this was an exception. It is a very well written novel full of intrigue and wonderfully descriptive places!

The Appeal by John Grisham
I have read everything by Mr. Grisham. He is in my top 5 of favorite authors. This book did not disappoint as far as his writing and storytelling. I was so frustrated by the ending that I threw the book... But it ended exactly how the scenario would play out in real life. I love how Grisham delivers the unexpected even when you were hoping for the opposite outcome :)

What are reading? I need some new suggestions before I go to the library Saturday. Maybe something that uplifted you, or a cool mystery (I may have to check into those more), or perhaps a moving biography....I enjoy non-fiction as well.

Hope you have a great week! I look forward to your ideas!

Balance

2009-03-16T10:57:00.000-07:00

This is what I am searching for. I have been around long enough to know that there is no such thing as "perfect balance". But surely there is a way to achieve a comfortable balance.

Am I missing something? I have all these irons in the fire and I feel like some of them are melting!! We all have several roles to play in life. I am a daughter, wife, mother, PTA member, babysitter, sister and chauffeur.
I feel stretched. The class i take on Tuesdays makes me feel like a I have 3 hours just for me. There are pockets of time that hubby picks up the house reins for me to have break...God bless him!

Is it just me? Am I just not capable to juggle all the things I see other women juggling in a seemingly effortless and graceful manner?

Christmas Traditions

2008-12-24T08:19:00.001-08:00

Do you have traditions for the holiday season?

We pick new ornaments as a family each year. It is fun to add to the tree and have memories connected to our decorations.

Christmas eve we let the kids open one gift. It is always a book and I keep them put away until Christmas Eve. That way everything under the tree remains a secret until Christmas morning. then we watch "How The Grinch Stole Christmas". After singing Christmas carols, we read the kids' their new books and tuck them into bed.

Christmas morning is always fun! Santa leaves a big present unopened to greet the kids first thing! After opening gifts, hubby makes a special breakfast of Eggs Benedict...yummy:)

It is always so wonderful and I feel very blesses to have the family that I have!
Merry Christmas to you all!

Party!!

2008-09-08T16:36:00.000-07:00

We celebrated my mom's birthday this weekend :)
I made the cake, my uncle cooked out, and my aunt provided the sides. Too fun!

(That is my hubby putting "bunny ears" on my mom in the background)

Vegas Fun - Family Style

2008-08-27T06:09:00.000-07:00

The CircusCircus has it's own theme park. It's not HUGE, but it has many fun rides! Even a roller coaster! The Adventure Dome was calling Isabella
the second she saw it ;)

Yup....Isabella and I are on this. Can you believe I did this? And it was the first ride we went on...hehehe...wish hubby had taken a picture of my face after the ride!

My lovely daughter, Isabella. This is on the hot air balloon ferris wheel.

My dear son Jaxson. He is fascinated by all the lights, sounds and people.

Isabella and I are on the boat at the very top...we are waving to hubby and a concerned Jaxson below!

Father gives daughter first driving lesson. I wish I could get videos to work when I upload them. I took a video of him driving all around the outside. It is hilarious, they may have been bumped once. Everyone else gets in jams and bumps...my hubby is careful and cautious...hahaha...it was sweet :)

Jaxson on the carousel

Hubby and jaxson waiting to get back on the carousel!

My kids after the day!
Jaxson fell asleep in his stroller on the looonnggg walk back to the room. We didn't want to risk waking him. Don't worry! We put on the brakes and stayed close by to make sure he didn't fall over.

Our view from the room. You can see the Trump Tower and many cranes. They worked all the time building things! It was amazing!

Give Me Five Monday

2008-08-25T10:57:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! I thought this was a great meme for today :)

Give Me Five current projects you are working on: crafts, around-the-house, church, work, etc.

1. Organizing closets - especially the kids, it's amazing how much they seem to grow in just a few short months! It's fun to go shopping for school clothes, though! So, far I have donated 4 boxes of clothes. And I have one closet left to do...next shoes...

2. Homework - mine and Isabella's i am taking a Humanities course this semester. I will have to do 2 book reports and an oral report is due in December (yikes!) I have already checked out a few of the books the professor suggested.
Isabella has homework about every other night now. I can't believe it! I am not sure we had that much homework when I was in 2nd grade.

3. Volunteer - I decided not to take a position on the PTA board this year, but I am will be volunteering in different areas. I like being involved but not having the stress of board meetings.

4. Scrapbooking

5. cross stitching - this is something my step-mother taught me years ago. I have recently picked it back up....it is soothing

Hope you have a great Monday!!

Vegas Baby!

2008-08-23T16:38:00.001-07:00

Vegas in August is HOT....in case you wondered what the desert was like in the summer.

We went to marry off my brother-in-law. It was a wonderful trip despite the fact we had very little (make that zero) time to sight see. But I did manage to catch a few photos of the Las Vegas Strip our first drive in.

Isabella was the flower girl, Jaxson was supposed to be the ring bearer but he decided to be his full 2 and half year old self instead. He spent the wedding strapped in his stroller eating fruit snacks. But he looked snazzy and had a good time later :)

My biggest worry was how the kids would do on the two and half hour plane ride. We had to drive 4 four hours to the airport first (to ensure we wouldn't have plane changes) But they did outstanding!!!! I have to say it was waaaayyyy easier than I has imagined. I wish I could have those hours (days) back that I worried and fretted!
Props to the airlines for letting families board first. That way you have time to get them settled and comfy.

Hubby and i are now discussing a return trip. We now know the following insider tips...do not stay at a hotel with a casino, if you have to, use valet parking. Take the back roads off the strip...going down the strip takes FOREVER. And we have a list of places we know we want to see next time. Some of them being erased after the one glance as we glided slowly by the first time....

Here are a few pics....

This is where we stayed...sigh...grandparents picked it out. It was fun for the kids. Circus, Adventure dome and magic shows...but we had to go through 2 main casinos and ride 2 elevators to get to our room.

Room with a view :)

I will post more on the trip another day. Hope you all had a great weekend and it is good to be back in blogland!!

Back on track....

2008-08-22T08:27:00.000-07:00

Kids are back in school and the routine is setting up nicely. I like routine. Sure, I get bored and have to switch things up a bit, but overall I enjoy a routine.

My daughter started 2nd grade. I can't believe how big she is getting. The time really does fly by. Can you believe how fast this year has gone by?

I hope you all had a wonderful summer. It's good to be back in blogland!

What to do with those egg cartons?

2008-06-04T07:57:00.000-07:00

We made a robot!!

Happenings....

2008-06-03T05:56:00.000-07:00

Things are happening fast and furious here. Summer started with a bang! Water guns, finger painting, soccer, dance recitals, weddings, vacations....whew! I am going to be in and out of blog land until fall. Please Please Please Forgive me!!!!! I have not forgotten you. I still read the blogs on the fly. I should comment more...(bad sara) but I promise to try harder to let you know I am alive!

Hubby got a promotion (Thank the Good Lord!!!!) He starts in 2 weeks. This is something he has been working toward the last 2 years. We are excited!
that was another factor in May. He was in and out of interviews and we sat the entire month on pins and needles waiting to hear! Throw in summer activities and I was a little overwhelmed.

Hope you are all feeling as blesed as I and I will chat at you soon!

Tornado Alley

2008-05-08T05:42:00.000-07:00

Yup, that's where I am. And last night was kind of freaky! We had my mom over for dinner and right after we cleaned the kitchen, the sirens went off. Mom took the kids to the bathroom, while hubby and I went to peek outside. It was dark and the air was heavy, very heavy. We went in and rode out a storm that lasted about 20 minutes or longer. A tornado touched down by mom's apartment. It was small, no one was hurt. There was damage and several trees down. She was extremely glad she was with us! It was a little too close for comfort!!

Hope the weather is fairer where you are!

Did you know?

2008-05-07T07:03:00.001-07:00

I know that there things in this world we cannot protect our kids from. I also know we should give our kids tools and the knowledge to go into the world ready for the inevitable trials they will face.
I am having a little trouble however, with something that happened at my daughter's elementary school. Forgive me if I sound overprotective. Maybe I am just not ready for her to have to deal with this sort of thing yet.
Yesterday, they had a drill. Not a fire or tornado drill. I am not sure the exact name they gave it. But my daughter said they went to the cafeteria, hunched down in a row and turned off the lights. This was practice in case someone came into the school with a weapon. I just looked at her. She asked her music teacher why they were doing this, her reply? "In case someone comes in with a gun or knife and tries to hurt us." Yeah...that's what you need to tell a 7 year old. Idiot.

On the flip side, (according to the principal), the world has come to the point where we have to prepare for these cases. They want to have something in place, on the off chance a kid gets a gun and brings it to school.

Thoughts? comments?

Here Today Gone Tomorrow

2008-05-06T06:14:00.000-07:00

I wrote about the frustrations of my brother moving here last August. Mostly frustrating because he left his first child 6 hours away with his first wife. If you are new to this particular drama, you can read about it HERE and HERE.

Well, as fast as they came, they have gone. Didn't tell his job, didn't bother to notify his apartment management (he was in his third month of a six month lease), didn't even bother to stay through May which he had paid for. Just woke up yesterday and decided he wanted to go home. He packed up his apartment, loaded his girlfriend and 3 babies up and left.

My mom is a left a little winded. We went over to see her last night and I am glad we did. She seemed a little blown out of the water. I am having her over for dinner tonight as well. Although in the long run this will be better on her health, it is no less shocking. She had really gotten attached to the girls.

So,I am back and a litlle dazed. Hope you are all well. Thanks for not giving up on me!

MIA

2008-05-02T05:57:00.001-07:00

That's me!

I have taken an unscheduled and unannounced bloggy break. Sorry about that! I am feeling better and things on the home front are looking up. I plan to do some catch up this weekend and next week. I just checked my email and blog today for the first time since last Saturday. Thanks for not marking me off completely! Sometimes there is so much going on in the "real world" that blogland has to take backburner.
(the very nerve)

Talk to you all soon! And yes I actually have a list running of blogs to catch up on!

Cheers :)

Frustrations of a new kind....

2008-04-23T07:35:00.000-07:00

If you are wondering where I am, I am here going a bit crazy...lol

Hubby was asked by his supervisor to work nights for a couple of weeks. No problem, hubby is a go with the flow kind of guy. He calls me at 9:30pm night before last, "Honey the car is missing." My heart drops into my stomach, Las Vegas trip vanishes before my eyes. We cannot afford this again!!!

Again, you say? Hubby works downtown, or as I call it the "hellpit" (not in front of the kids...geez) This past November hubby's car was stolen from the parking lot at 11:20am. It took the thief 2 minutes to get in and take off. Have the police recovered it? No, apparently there is a year long donut sale going on. Besides it was an older car, we only had liability on it (so no rental) and in Oklahoma you do not have to have a title on a car 10 years old or older to sell it for scrap. I am guessing that puppy was sold and smashed within a couple of hours.
This changed our routine a bit. I now get up early and take hubby to the bus. He had asked for a new parking pass for the downtown lot, but never heard back. Being the laid back guy he is, he didn't follow up. For a while this did not matter because he was riding the bus.

Well, duh! Neither of us thought about it when he agreed to work the night shift for a couple of weeks, and the dumb @#@$#*%! security officer had his car towed. There are not that many people working at night, the security officer could have checked around....anyway. Hubby was able to find a ride home that night. Yesterday morning my mom took him to the car lot they had towed it to. After paying 165 dollars, he went to work quite grumbly. This night gig will be over Friday.

Thank goodness because I am grumpy too! I tripped over Jaxson the other day and jammed my toe, and twisted my already bad ankle. After walking funny because of the toe and ankle, my knee and hip hurt....hahahaha I do look kind of funny hobbling around. The kids miss their dad at night. Kids like routine and get grumpy too, when it is changed.

Hope you are all well! i have not forgotten any of you! I have a growing list of blogs to catch up on, and I will. I promise!!
:)

This is my outlook today...what's yours??

2008-04-19T14:38:00.000-07:00

Unexpected

2008-04-18T11:42:00.000-07:00

There are times I expect his memory. I seem to psyche myself up for those dates. As they grow near, I cry, I take flowers to the marker with his name. His birthday, Christmas, the actual due date he was expected.

But there are days that I am not prepared for the overwhelming loss. It has been a little over 3 years and I still ache.

I went to counseling but there is only so much of that I could stand. They suggested group therapy, but the thought of listening to other women cry and grieve was not something I thought I could handle. I could barely handle my own emotions.

Yesterday was not a stand out date. But I was flooded with memories and sadness. I bought flowers and hubby took me to the cemetery. We haven't been there since February. Some people think (and have actually told us) that we should be over this by now. How on earth do you "get over" exactly. Maybe I should have stuck with the counseling long enough to find out.

Today I feel better. It seems to help, taking flowers. Talking to him, hubby clutching my hand tightly to let me know he still shares the same pain. It is no less gone from him than me. And knowing that helps too in a way.

Friday Fill-Ins

2008-04-17T16:45:00.000-07:00

1. The last time I lost my temper I took a walk around the block to calm down!
2. Schools over testing our kids is what I'm fed up with!
3. The next book I'd like to read is Kite Runner.
4. Our trip to Vegas in August is what I'm looking forward to.
5. If you can't get rid of the skeleton[s] in your closet, better lock the door!
6. The best thing I got in the mail recently was my Taste of Home magazine.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going to bed early, tomorrow my plans include working a few hours and a nice dinner with the family and Sunday, I want to relax, maybe go to the zoo again or to the park, hopefully it will not rain all weekend!

Go HERE
for more Friday Fill Ins

reading time

2008-04-16T07:37:00.001-07:00

I picked up 2 books at the library a couple of weeks ago, Alphabet Weekends by Elizabeth Noble and Weight of Water by Anita Shreve.

Alphabet Weekends is a delight. Elizabeth Noble is an author I have really enjoyed the past few years. Her book The Friendship Test is wonderful.

Anita Shreve is good too, but way too depressing at times for me. Light on Snow was good. Sad, but good. I thought The Pilot's Wife was very good as well.
Weight of Water has got to be one of the most disturbing and depressing books I have read. I ended up having to flip ahead, unable to read every page. Maybe it's just me.

I want to read Kite Runner, there is a 3 week waiting list at the library for a copy!

What are you reading?

Heads Or Tails

2008-04-15T09:53:00.000-07:00

This week's theme/prompt is:

HEADS - Tip
*OR*
TAILS - Anything that rhymes with Tip.

Trip down memory lane

I have been thinking of my grandmother lately. She was a strong, gentle lady with a generous and loving heart. I miss her. Her wisdom, her singing, her understanding....I miss everything about her. She was the glue that kept our family close for years. We are still close but time and circumstances have distanced us. When I think of her, I am also flooded with family memories of get togethers, birthday parties, holidays...laughter, joy and belonging.

Inspiration

2008-04-14T11:55:00.001-07:00

I have found the greatest source of inspiration this weekend!!
Hubby bought me milk chocolate Dove squares that have creamy caramel inside...oh yum.
The interesting thing about these candies, is they have a message written inside the wrapper. Like fortune cookie.

"buy yourself flowers"
"dare to dream"
"send a love letter this week"
"wink at someone driving past today"
"get your feet massaged"

Lovely messages! And lovely chocolates :)

**UPDATE: Here are two wrappers

*If they can do it, you know you can*
*Smile before bed, you'll sleep better*

Chef Isabella

2008-04-13T15:04:00.000-07:00

Somehow Bella always makes the best pie (despite the plastic after taste)

How I fought the BLUES today....

2008-04-12T17:59:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, I work for a few hours on Saturdays. Today I went in at 4am. My mom works in the same department, actually we sit in the same cube! She is a Monday-Friday fulltime employee, so it is rare that I see her. Today I was lucky (and blessed) to spend time with her. She was trying to get overtime and has been helping with my brother's twin girls since the birth of his son a few weeks ago. Between schedules, health issues and Jaxson having a cold, I have been out of commission to help out much.

I told her to bring the girls to me and she could have the afternoon off to rest.
I had so much fun! They are too sweet. Just learning to walk, eating solid food and soaking up the actions of my kids.....they took it all in.

They left tired and happy. Hopefully they will sleep all night!

Blues

2008-04-11T12:13:00.000-07:00

Don't you hate it when you get the blues?
I have the blues. No particular reason, just have the blues. I think part of it is, hubby and I have plans for the future and the future seems far away. Does that make sense? I know we will eventually get there and I will eventually get to return to school and accomplish my goals, but it seems so far away. Time seems to fly by, the kids are getting older and life just seems so fast. I feel like my chances of doing the things I want to in life, are getting fewer and far between.

Hope you aren't totally depressed by this. I am overall happy. And I feel a little guilty feeling the way I do. There are people who are worse off than I. My marriage is good. My kids are healthy. I am healthy. So that should be good enough right?
Why do I want more? Is it just human nature? Am I being selfish? Is it just a bad day and tomorrow I will feel differently?

How Time Flies

2008-04-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

It seems like just yesterday that I brought her home from the hospital. I would dress her in the cutest outfits, bought 15 pairs of shoes before she could walk, and sing to her every night.

Now, she can read, write and asserts more independence every day. One part of me is quite proud of the young lady she is shaping up to be, another part is wants to slow time down. Just for a bit

Meme about Me

2008-04-07T13:58:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Working Mum On The Verge for this meme
I have answered these before, so I will try to use new answers :)

What was I doing ten years ago?
I was 19, therefore I knew EVERYTHING. Wish I had a time machine, so I could go back and slap some sense into myself...oh well, I wouldn't be where I am if I did that. And I like where I am

5 Things on my To Do List today
1. clean out fridge
2. laundry
3. finish library book before I have to return it (yeah right)
4. make dinner
5. work on potty training Jaxson...sigh

5 Snacks I enjoy
Cheez Its
any cheese, except bleu cheese....yuck!
granola bars
Dove chocolates
Strawberries

Things I would do if I were a billionaire
buy a house
travel anywhere and everywhere
put my kids in private schools
buy my mom a house
pay off debts and family's debts

Five jobs that I have had
receptionist dating service...hehehe
supervisor for book store
customer service
part time auditor for a casino...hehehe
my first job was at a sno-cone stand, that was fun!

Three of my bad habits
I worry too much
I wait until the last minute to get out of bed and then have to rush around
hmmmmm....another one?

Five places I have lived
Texas
Oklahoma
how boring is that?

I decided not to tag anyone specifically for this meme, but if you are reading this and want to play along, go for it! Let me know, so I can check out your answers!

Congrats!

2008-04-07T13:52:00.000-07:00

I want to thank Working Mum On The Verge for honoring me with the Award of Distinction! She created this award for blogs that make you, "think, laugh, cry or sigh" The only rule is you should pass it to another 5 blogs.

And I am passing the award to the following blogs!

So Shiok! for making me laugh (she is funny!) and sigh, because I would love to see some of the places she posts about!
Babywearing Buzz for making me laugh and think
Comedy Plus for providing great laughs and entertainment!
Three Weddings for making me laugh,cry and think
As good as it gets for making me laugh and think..I am glad I found ya again!!

Congrats everyone!

Heads or Tails

2008-04-07T11:30:00.001-07:00

Today it is HEADS
and the theme is EXPRESS, you can use the exact word or any form of it!

My favorite pics of the kids' expressions

To see more Heads Or Tails, go HERE

Give Me Five Monday

2008-04-07T07:05:00.000-07:00

Today's Theme

Give Me Five favorite candies, of all time or currently.

1. Hershey's chocolate bar
2. Jelly Belly Jelly Benas...cuz they have so many flavors you can combine!

3. York Peppermint Patties
4. Bottle caps...especially the rootbeer ones...I would fight for it..hehe

5. Carmello candy bar...yum!

For more Give Me Five Monday entries go HERE

Spring!!!!!!

2008-04-06T12:09:00.000-07:00

Today it felt like Spring!!! FINALLY!! Yippee!!
Can you tell I am excited? The whole family was excited, so we decided to load up and head to the zoo! Hope you had a great day too!

***FYI- I will be featuring pictures and stories of our trip on my blog Kooky Kids for the next week. There will be some very cool things to see!***

Saturday Goofiness

2008-04-05T12:32:00.000-07:00

Today I am very tired, which makes me feel loopy/goofy. I work some Saturdays at a healthcare facility. Just paperwork, but it gets me out of the house some :) I like to be home in time for lunch with the family, so I go in at 4am...hehe,,I know, too early for the weekend!

Yesterday I told you hubby bought me roses...here they are.

He would do this more often, but when flowers die, I get sad....Am I weird? His resolution to this on Valentines Day was a painting of a rose...Isn't that sweet?

And I threw this in because it makes me smile. This is the flower that my daughter picked out at the hospital when her brother was born. She had her nana buy it, and she very proudly presented it to me.

Hope you are all having a wonderful day!!

Friday Fill Ins

2008-04-04T05:49:00.000-07:00

1. Tonight I saw a spider in the kitchen!! YIKES!
2. Getting paid makes me wanna dance!
3. Splitting a few appetizers between friends = a good time :)
4. Bob Dylan is someone I'd like to get to know better.
5. The smell of rain reminds me so much of springtime!
6. Hubby brought me roses and that made it all better.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to making hubby his favorite meal, tomorrow my plans include working a few hours and Sunday, I want to relax and read the book I got from the library, Alphabet Weekends by Elizabeth Noble!

For more fun Friday Fill Ins, go HERE

"The tree is not attacking you! Stop!"

2008-04-03T10:58:00.000-07:00

Yes, these words were actually coming out of my mouth, to my son, at the dentist office. This morning both kids had a check up. Isabella was having her regular cleaning and this would be Jaxson's first check up. The assistant explained to me that for children Jaxson's age, the dentist would come into the conference room to check him. Jaxson was to face me and lean back onto the dentist's lap.
While waiting for the exam, Jaxson explores the conference room we are in. It is a small room, with 3 chairs, a coffee table holding a basket of pamphlets on how to get a great smile, 2 windows, and a fake, sickly looking, tree.
Of course, the basket of pamphlets catch his attention. After reading them with lightening speed, he starts throwing them in the air like confetti. "Yea! Yea! Look Momma!" I gather them up and place them back in the basket (the crumpled ones on the bottom, of course). When I turn around, he has discovered the shades covering the windows. The last thing I need added to the bill is window coverings. I pulled the shade up, hoping to distract him with the view. It worked for a while (thanks to a city bus stop, semis and a loose dog)
Growing tired of this, he stood to look around, and the fake, sickly looking, tree brushed his arm. He jerked his body to face the tree, a look of fierce determination on his little face. He put his hands up like Buzz Lightyear and made a whoooooshing sound. I was so overcome with laughter, that I couldn't keep it in. This, of course, just egged him on. He began slapping at the big droopy leaves. I told him to stop, and he did. But only to retrieve his sippycup. Then the fight was on! He knocked his cup into the leaves, making whooshing noises, eyes closed. "The tree is not attacking you! Stop!"
And this is how the dentist found us....sigh.....At least the dental exams were both good. We do this again in November? Oy Vay

Wordless Wednesday

2008-04-02T07:07:00.000-07:00

Mikhail Baryshnikov

For more Wordless Wednesdays go HERE
Thanks to Five Minutes For Mom for hosting!

Uncomplicated

2008-04-01T16:41:00.000-07:00

My husband is uncomplicated. That does not mean he is uninteresting. He is very bright and knows more trivia than I thought a brain could hold. When I say he is uncomplicated, I mean it as a compliment. He doesn't play games, mind games. He is very straight forward and has a one track mind. (He cannot talk on the phone and be doing anything else) He is a simple man. He loves me. He loves the kids. He is a hardworker. He helps out friends and neighbors when their in need.
If I am sick, I know he will take care of me. When the kids are sick, he takes turns with me during the night. Often he takes more turns than me because, "Your home all day with them, let me give you a break." He makes breakfast every Sunday morning for me. He often does the dishes after dinner because he says, "it's the least I can do since you cooked such a good meal."
His love is uncomplicated and unconditional. I know he loves me. His very actions reinforce this knowledge.

Okay, I will wrap this sappy post up. I was feeling warm and fuzzy thinking of the past weekend. I was still not feeling well, so Saturday he took us out. And Sunday he picked this lovely pizza up at the take and bake pizzeria. I got a good guy :)

Heads or Tails

2008-04-01T06:14:00.000-07:00

Today it is Heads - The topic Fool, Foolish or Foolhardy I was a fool to think I could accomplish this mission. Who did I think I was? He is smarter, cuter and wise to my tricks. So, I am the fool today. I give you my son's response to my plea, "Eat your vegetables." *****Unfortunately the video is being as stubborn as my son (lol) Suffice it to say he cracks up with laughter and shakes his head no. Guess the joke's on me again!

Go Here for more fun Heads or Tails

Give Me Five Monday

2008-03-31T11:13:00.001-07:00

Today's Theme:

Give Me Five future events you are currently looking forward to and/or planning or attending.

Hmmmmm.....

1. My father-in-law is getting married June 7. They have been together for about 7 years now. His wife, hubby's mom, passed away 12 years ago. It is a big step for my Father-in-law to make, but I have never seen him happier!

2. My daughter's recital is the same day in June! Yikes! The wedding is at 10am and her recital is at 7pm, so we should be good. But what a big day for her, and us.

3. My brother-in-law is getting married in August in VEGAS BABY!! Seeing as how my hubby is bestman, my daughter is the flower girl and my son is the ring bearer, we have to go! I cannot wait! I have never been there.

4. Lana and Rachel, my childhood friends, are expecting their babies anytime now! I want to make a trip back home when they do. crossing my fingers that I can!

5. Hubby received his associates degree in accounting and I am planning a small, informal dinner with relatives. Should be fun!

For more Give Me Five Monday memes...go HERE

Earth Hour = Lots of Laughter

2008-03-30T11:27:00.000-07:00

Last night we participated in the Earth Hour event by shutting off all electricity driven appliances. I was a little nervous about the kids (Normally they are in bed by 8pm) Last night we watched the Bee movie and that put us behind schedule for baths and bedtime. The kids had a blast! We lit candles and had flashlights.
I am not sure what Jaxson thought was happening, but apparently it was a great game!
We played shadow puppets, which Isabella is really good at. Then came bath time. Candlelight baths are no longer for relaxing moms! Nope, the kids were ecstatic! We may have to repeat this just because of all the fun that was had.

Thanks to Debby at Bee in Italy for making me aware of this event. We really enjoyed ourselves. Debby had a party with friends and a dinner by candlelight. Check out her blog for the lovely pictures and story!

What a great day!

2008-03-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

We have been to the bakery, to the pet store and to dinner. Oh my! I wish I had taken my camera.(What was I thinking??) Jaxson and Isabella were thrilled to pick out cookies at the bakery. Standing in line they deliberated over their choice. Finally they chose iced cookies, with even more icing piped on top. Isabella's had a flower and Jaxson's a spider. It was pretty cute to watch Jaxson "talk" to his spider. He would laugh and poke his finger at it. When the icing came off onto his finger he looked at us and said, "Oh no!" We tried to explain that he could eat it. He ate all around the spider, the only part of the insect he ate were the eyes....what does that signify? hmmmm......
The in-laws were in town for a bit. I was going to make dinner but it did not pan out. hehe... Anyhoo, hubby surprised me by taking us out to Napoli's, a wonderful family owned Italian restaurant. I was able to eat their Tortellini Alla Panna. It was heaven! After the week of pain and only eating soup, this was indeed a treat!
The kids were so good too. Isabella ordered for herself, spaghetti with butter and cheese, no sauce. Jaxson ate their homemade Italian rolls and kept his normal yell to a low hum. Hubby devoured the spinach ravioli. Sigh....fun!
A few doors down there is a pet store, which the kids love. WE spent half an hour looking at the rabbits, chinchillas, cats, dogs, birds and fish. Gotta love the fish. Jaxson was enamored with a Moroccan Uromastyx. The little guy (the animal) would back up and look at us. He could see his reflection in the side glass and would scratch at it wildly. Jaxson found this to be great entertainment!

We are now going to watch the Bee Movie. My daughter has been after us to rent it ever since it came out.

Hope you all had a great weekend as well!

Earth Hour - Join the movement!

2008-03-29T11:08:00.000-07:00

March 29,2008 8pm-9pm
www.earthhour.org

Friday Fill In

2008-03-28T06:22:00.000-07:00

Here are my Friday Fill Ins! Hope you have a great day!

1. Some relationships are meant to last a lifetime.
2. STOMP was the last concert I saw; it was very good.
3. Spring should be here already!
4. Oh no! I forgot to do laundry! The piles are attacking me!
5. I've recently started making plans to return to school.
6. The kids never fail to make me smile.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to relaxing, tomorrow my plans include cooking for the in-laws and Sunday, I want to sleep in!

For more Friday Fill Ins, go HERE!

A Haiku Biography

2008-03-27T17:11:00.000-07:00

If you haven't read todays post from the Reluctant Housewife, go here. She is always posting something fun. I look forward to seeing what she has up her sleeve everyday! Today she has challenged anyone and everyone to write a Haiku biography.
I had never heard of thie type of poetry before. I looked around the web and found information here on the background and how to write one.

Here is mine. Please, no laughing! It's a first try ;)

Chocoholic by
Choice. Loves intensely. Shy by
nature. Peacemaker

Let me know if you try this, I would love to check it out!

Blogging Personality

2008-03-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

This was fun quiz and I was pleased with the result. I have to disagree, however, that I have the best looking blog. There are some pretty amazing blogs out there!
;) Hope you have a great Wednesday!

Your Blogging Type is Kind and Harmonious

You're an approachable blogger who tends to have many online friends.

People new to your blogging circle know they can count on you for support.

You tend to mediate fighting and drama. You set a cooperative tone.

You have a great eye for design - and your blog tends to be the best looking on the block!

What's Your Blogging Personality?

Heads or Tails

2008-03-25T08:28:00.000-07:00

Today it's Heads, The theme is Surprise
My surprise from this weekend: Discovering my son has conquered his fear of heights. He used to be too afraid to climb the steps on the playset without myself or hubby helping. This weekend he climbed the steps (with just one pause) and slid down by himself!! He was thrilled! I am glad he has accomplished this but..sniff...they grow so fast.

Go here for more Heads or Tails

Give Me FIve!

2008-03-24T05:38:00.000-07:00

Give Me Five favorite memories from your Easter day 2008.

1. Making the kids' Easter baskets.

2. Coloring Eggs with the kids. I love their exclamations when the eggs come out bright and colorful!

3. Hiding the eggs and watching the kids hunt for them.

4. Good food. I really enjoy making special dinners for my family.

5. My new nephew! He was born on Friday and I was able to see him again yesterday. He is too precious. Hopefully he and mom will go home today!

Want to join 'Give Me Five On Mondays'? Go here!

Happy Easter

2008-03-23T07:57:00.000-07:00

This song is special and is something I keep close to my heart. If you have a chance to listen, I hope it blesses you as it has me.

** 'When God Ran' by Phillips, Craig & Dean ** I do not own the song or video**

Rise and Shine!!

2008-03-22T09:23:00.000-07:00

I am a morning person, but I do tend to worry about things!
How about you? Are you a morning or night person?

You Are a Morning Person

You're optimistic, alert, and full of energy to start the day.

While you would love to party all night, you rather be up at the crack of dawn.

You don't procrastinate or spend time worry about what to do next.

You take life by the reigns, and you like to have an early start.

Are You a Morning Person or Night Person?

Friday Fill-ins

2008-03-21T08:30:00.000-07:00

I came across this fun meme. (They seem to be overtaking me just lately!)

1. Blogging is so exciting!
2. Strawberry fields remind me of my grandmother.
3. A Krispy Kreme donut sounds like it would taste delicious!(but I do not like them)
4. Why does chocolate make me feel so good?!
5. The Eiffel Tower is something I've always wanted to see.
6. It's sad when flowers start to wilt.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to seeing my new nephew, tomorrow my plans include coloring Easter eggs and Sunday, I want to enjoy my family and make them a wonderful meal!

Go HERE to for Friday Fill-ins.

Thankful Thursday

2008-03-20T11:33:00.000-07:00

Today I will refrain from complaining! I want to give Thanks instead.
I am thankful for the following things in my life:
1. My children have a father, who not only loves them, but is involved with their life. He takes an active role in guiding them into the people they will be one day.
2. My home is not the fanciest, but it is a cozy, safe place.
3. The health of my family. We get sick once in a while, but man oh man, we are so lucky.
4. Coffee....yeah it is that important.
5. Last I want to list my blogging companions! You make my world a little brighter with your comments, insights and lovely posts.

Frustration continues...dun dun da.....

2008-03-19T12:21:00.000-07:00

Apparently this blog is becoming my 'family happenings' blog. I am trying to save Happy Baker
for happy things...hehehehe. If you are wondering what posessed me to have 3 blogs, all I can say is: I am a scatterbrain. It shows even in my blogging.

So, following my previous post, I am still a bit frustrated today. Kristen came over last night. She is so cute! They grow so fast. She is a small little thing too. Jaxson wears the same shoe size and I am pretty sure he out weighs her. She is 4 and he is 2. She has always been little. Isabella is 7 and towers over her.

Hubby has always been good with kids and the kids seem to flock to him. Kristen remembers him from the past summers. He reads to the kids every night. This past summer Kristen found this to be an awesome event and every night requested he read Green Eggs and Ham. When she has been with us for several days she calls him "daddy" or "Bella's Daddy". We have tried to insert the Aunt and Uncle titles but with Kristen it is useless. What can I say?

Here is a picture of the girls and hubby. Kristen has put her pajamas on his head and declared him the PJ KING....what does that mean? But it is cute...

After baths, stories, prayers and MANY drinks of water, Kristen finally fell asleep.
This morning I woke to her tiny face. I could tell she was struggling not to cry. "Can I call my mommy?" Of course, I got up and let her call.

Is is just me? Am I neurotic? But when my children are with someone else, even grandparents, for more than 2-3 hours, I call and check on them. Her mom hasn't talked to her since she left Texas on Friday. And my brother...well. He works from
3pm to 11pm. That is the "reason" she can't stay with him. Apparently Kristen would be too much for the new wife to handle at night. (And after seeing how she is with Kristen, I am not sure I want Kristen there when Jack isn't anyway.) But he could pick her up in the mornings and spend time with her. He didn't see her yesterday, because she did not want to go over there. Apparently it is too much of a trouble for him to come to her now. And today he didn't even call. Kristen never talks about him. It makes me incredibly sad. And mad.

My mom is taking her home Friday morning after they see the new baby at the hospital.
I am wondering if he will see her before that. Probably not. I am so conflicted!
There is a good chance he could get his visitation rights cut back because he doesn;t make the effort to get her once a month for a weekend like he is supposed to. Now when she goes home Kristen is going to tell her mom all about spending time with Nana and Aunt Sara. I wonder if she will be upset that Kristen didn't see Jack.
And at what point do we, my mother and I, have to step back and let go. He, in theory, could lose all visitation with her. And that would mean we wouldn't be able to see her either unless her mother let us.

I guess July will tell the tale. He is supposed to have her the entire month. Last year, Bob and I had her most of the time. Jack had her for 4 days. sigh.....is this post as "rambling" sounding as I think it is?

Fun on Wednesday

2008-03-19T06:28:00.000-07:00

I saw this meme over at Amy's Blah, Blah, Blogging and thought it sounded fun! Hope you enjoy

What I was doing 10 years ago: I was 19 and knew EVERYTHING. I was taking a couple of college courses and meeting new people. Hanging out and having fun!

5 Things on my To Do List today:
Clean the bathroom-yuck!
Laundry-of course!
balance the check book
arts and crafts with the kids...because, of course, it is STILL raining
Make chocolate chip cookies...with the help of 3 kids

Snacks I Enjoy:
Club Puffed multi-grain crackers
Pringles
cheese-cheddar, gouda, any really...except bleu cheese
Granola bars
strawberries

Things I would do if I were a Billionaire:
1. Pay off the credit cards
2. Buy a home
3. Start funds for my children's college education
4. Invest it, hubby would handle this part
5. Travel everywhere!

3 of my Bad Habits:
1. chew my fingernails...only when I am VERY nervous. it isn't a daily thing
2. Actually answering the question,"What do you think?", honestly. I have found most people just really want you to listen.
3. i drink waaaayyyy too much coffee every day

5 places I have lived:
1. Amarillo, Tx
2. Oklahoma
I haven't lived in 5 separate cities, but i have lived in different houses in these cities

5 Jobs I have had:
1. Secretary for dating service...hehehehe
2. customer service for cellular service
3. assistant supervisor at Barnes and Noble
4. Auditor for a casino, part-time
5. data entry for healthcare facility

If you play along too let me know and I'll stop by for a visit!

Frustration....

2008-03-18T06:01:00.000-07:00

that is what I am feeling right this moment. It is early morning so there is a chance for this to go away by the end of the day, right?

**Apologies to my few regular readers and to any new readers who have come across this. This is not my usual type of post**

Kristen is here for Spring Break. She lives 6 hours away. She is 4, will be 5 in June. My brother,Jack, has not seen his daughter since AUGUST. Where is Kristen? At this moment she is with my mom and my daughter, they had a girls' night last night. Which is fine and I am glad they had a chance to do it. But where will Kristen be from 3pm today until Friday morning? With me and my family. Let me pause to say, I do not mind having her. Every summer we have her at least a week, if not 2 weeks of the month that is Jack's. She is lucky to get a few days with Jack out of that month.
I am not upset that she will be here, I am upset at the total lack of responsibility on my brother's part. Yes, he has a new wife that is expecting a baby on Friday and yes they have twins that are barely a year old, however, he also has Kristen.
It is a hard situation and I agree that it isn't ideal. But the new wife, pregnant or not, doesn't really want Kristen around. She even convinced my brother to move here. They used to live in Texas. The new wife doesn't like the old one, so they moved. Where does that leave Kristen?
I want to shake my brother. There will come a day, and it isn't too far away, that Kristen will decide she doesn't want to come. Jack lives in the moment. He cannot see past the end of his nose. He has never planned for the future. My heart hurts. Her first night here, remember he hasn't seen her since AUGUST, and she stayed with my mom. The reason? They had to get ready for the twin's party. What kind of crap is that? You can't bake some cupcakes with a 4 year old around? Why not let her help?
And if your new wife isn't ok with your daughter, then you chose poorly my dear brother.

Ok, I think I have it out of my system. **Again apologies, this is not my usual type of post content. I needed to vent....seeth actually...**

Material Girl Monday

2008-03-17T08:29:00.000-07:00

Here are this week's favorites. I made the first one, Isabella made the second. She is really getting good at it!

Have fun at polyvore.com

PARTY!

2008-03-17T08:16:00.000-07:00

My twin neices, Hannah and Heather, turn 1 on March 28th. We celebrated early because their new brother will arrive on the 21st. There was laughter, cupcakes, presents, tears, yelling, cooing....everything you expect from a 1 year old's party.

Heather

Hannah and Isabella

Kristen

Jaxson...I think he likes the cupcakes!

Introducing...(drum roll).....HUBBY

2008-03-15T20:47:00.000-07:00

After weeks of listening to me talk about all the fun stuff in the blogging world, Hubby thought he might like to contribute too. I have invited him to be an author on this blog. I cannot say, nor am I responsible for, what he will post about.

With further ado I give you....Bob (not his real name) and he wants me to point out that if you put the letters backwards it is still Bob.

**P.S. He has seen my blog, listen to me talk about a few, but it wasn't until he saw this post at Reluctant Housewife's blog, that he decided to jump in with both feet(or foot since I am unsure how often he will post). RW-I am a bit jealous of you, seeing as how he thought your post was hilarious and spent longer on your blog than mine ;) j/k**

My Inner Child - Quiz results

2008-03-14T07:24:00.000-07:00

I came across something fun at blogthings.com
There are several little tests, they range from what is your theme song to what type of blogger are you. Check it out!

Your Inner Child Is Surprised

You see many things through the eyes of a child.

Meaning, you're rarely cynical or jaded.

You cherish all of the details in life.

Easily fascinated, you enjoy experiencing new things.

How Is Your Inner Child?

Hot!!

2008-03-13T12:49:00.000-07:00

There are too many irons in the fire today!
PTA stuff, dance class, dinner out, and a parent-teacher conference. Oh and there was an eery banging in my closet, apparently the laundry is calling me too...
Whew.....can I get more coffee please?

Spring Break is Next Week!!!!!!

2008-03-12T09:12:00.000-07:00

I can't believe Spring Break is next week! This year has flown by. My neice, Kristen, is coming to visit! She is 4, going to be 5 in June.(My brother lives here in Oklahoma, Kristen is in Texas with her mom.) My brother and his second wife are expecting their third child on the 21st of March. They have twin girls that are going to be a year old on the 28th of March. (Wowza!) Anyway, with all the commotion there, we will surely have Kristen with us for a few of the days. The girls love to play together. We do not get to see her often enough!! (Another story for a another day)

Kristen

Family

2008-03-11T05:51:00.000-07:00

It is always shocking to me to see how everyone has changed in between my visits. Probably not as shocked as they are when they see my children and how much they have grown. Does that happen to anyone else? Certain people are just supposed to be the same all the time. They shouldn't get older, shouldn't get ailments. They should remain that image you have had since you were a kid. This is my Aunt and Uncle. They are getting older and it just kills me to realize that. They seemed to really enjoy seeing us and playing with the kids.

Childhood Friends

2008-03-10T18:24:00.001-07:00

What I miss most about "home" are my friends. Rachel and I have been friends for 21 years, Lana and I for 15. They are the sisters i never had. I honestly cannot believe I manage day to day without seeing them. It has been hard. But I wouldn't have met hubby if I had not moved, so.....

Lana is expecting her first baby! I have been so excited! She and Cameron are very anxious for the arrival of their son! She had her baby shower this weekend. I was thrilled I could go! Really, I wouldn't have missed it for the world. So, despite ills and spills we made it to Texas!

Rachel has 2 daughters, the oldest 8 and the youngest 6. She and her husband really wanted to try again for a boy and in 2006 they were expecting twin boys. Tragically she lost them halfway through the pregnancy. It was devastating. She called me almost daily. I had been through the same ordeal with my son, Spencer, in 2004. She knew I understood and I knew there were no words. Sometimes we would sit on the phone and not say anything, just listen to each other cry. Now she is expecting a son,due any day now. My heart is full....

Monday Material Girl

2008-03-10T07:27:00.001-07:00

It's Monday! Time for our favorite sets that we have made at polyvore.com Isabella and I have really enjoyed creating these sets. She is getting really good at it! Her favorite is the Dance set, of course.

COLD!!!!!!

2008-03-04T06:44:00.000-08:00

This is what we woke up to this morning. Snow! Where is Spring??? Hubby cleaned off the car and took Bella to school. I am going to wait patiently for naptime, have a cup of coffee and read a book!

Happy Hats!

2008-03-03T13:05:00.001-08:00

It is too fun to play and dream with this site, polyvore.com. Isabella and I had a fantastic time yesterday. While Jaxson took a nap, we made fabulous creations!

I have gotten very carrried away with this, which surprises me! It is too fun!
To keep it in check, I will post every monday the "sets" Isabella and I favor the most!

Here are a couple more for today!

Pretty in Pink

2008-03-02T08:42:00.000-08:00

too fun! At Polyvore.com you can creat outfits and accesorize them. Thanks to C is for Couture
for letting me in on this!

In this crazy world.....

2008-03-02T08:01:00.000-08:00

I never thought I would find "The One". When I was young, my female family members would say, "You'll just know." I couldn't imagine meeting someone and "just knowing". I went through a restless stage and gave up on the idea of finding true love. Then I met him. He is strong in areas that I am weak. I am bold in areas he is shy. I am nervous and he is the only person who can calm me without saying a word.
He is everything I dreamed about as a girl. Everything I had convinced myself I didn't deserve. Although not perfect, because no one is, but he is perfect for me and our family.

This is to my hubby.

Bring your tired weary...

2008-02-28T17:32:00.000-08:00

butt to the bed! That is my husband at night after the kids have been tucked in. Not for
whoo-hoo, necessarily, but because I have stated at some point in the evening that i am exhausted. The last two days have been excruciating due to Jaxson not feeling well. He wants to be held ALL the time. So, naturally, when I have a moment, I want to blog or read or eat chocolate that I dont have to share!

I wake up fresh and ready to go in the mornings, gulping my Columbian coffee down. I run through the morning routine of getting everyone dressed, fed and where they need to be. Then glance at the blog, clean the house, run errands, etc. This is a normal day. Today I accomplished 2 loads of laundry and keeping my little guy close. Not much but hey... :-) My arms are so tired from holding him all day.

Then there is picking everyone up, dance class for Isabella, realization that I forgot to lay out something for dinner! GASP!!!! And having to figure out something quick. Sigh...now everyone is in bed and I feel a rush of a second wind and of course I head here! Surely, I am not the only one!

I have been surprised and delighted by how many people I have met. I have come to realize that there are many,many moms out there going through my exact day! It is so nice!

Blonde Moments

2008-02-28T08:06:00.000-08:00

A few days ago I was having some work done at my local garage. A blonde came in and asked for a seven-hundred- ten. We all looked at each other and another customer asked, "What is a seven-hundred- ten?" She replied, "You know, the little piece in the middle of the engine, I have lost it and need a new one.." She replied that she did not know exactly what it was, but this piece had always been there. The mechanic gave her a piece of paper and a pen and asked her to draw what the piece looked like. She drew a circle and in the middle of it wrote 710. He then took her over to another car which had its hood up and asked "is there a 710 on this car?" She pointed and said, "Of course, its right there."

I am a blonde who found this hilarious!!!

This was an email I received today....

2008-02-27T13:17:00.000-08:00

There is a medical distinction. We've all heard about people having guts or balls, but do you really know the difference between them? In an effort to keep you informed, the definitions are listed below:

GUTS - Is arriving home late after a night out with the guys, being met by your wife with a broom, and having the guts to ask: 'Are you still cleaning, or are you flying somewhere?'

BALLS - Is coming home late after a night out with the guys, smelling of perfume and beer, lipstick on your collar, slapping your wife on the butt and having the balls to say: You're next, fatty.'

I hope this clears up any confusion on the definitions. Medically speaking, there is no difference in the outcome, since both ultimately result in death

Vanessa-Mae's "Storm"

2008-02-25T07:37:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqkFgeBFTWU

This is wonderful!

Before "I Do"

2008-02-25T05:55:00.000-08:00

I came across this website: http://www.cnn.com/2007/LIVING/personal/08/02/o.marriage.questions/index.html

It lists all the questions you should ask each other before getting married. Here are the highlights:

"Will you marry me," is not only question couples should ask:
Income: How much is OK and what to spend it on
Children? When and how many?
Home life, chores, friends can be areas of disagreement

Kids I can see talking about, but do couples really discuss future disagreements like chores and what to spend money on? Don't those things change with time and circumstances?

Spousal Support

2008-02-19T07:58:00.000-08:00

Isn't it lovely when you know there is at least one person in the world who supports you. That person for me is my husband. I have other family members and they are wonderful in their own right. But my husband is the one constant in my life. I honestly had no direction before meeting him. I can't recall what it is exactly I did before meeting him. Some people claim they lose their independent self when they get married. For me, it was the opposite. My husband gave me the love and encouragement I needed to firgure out who I was and what I want to do in the world.
I know no matter what he will be there. He has my back and it doesn't matter if I am wrong or right. He's there.

Desperate Rose Counts

2008-02-15T06:22:00.000-08:00

I had a fabulous Valentine's day! I hope everyone reading this did as well! I did not get roses, and before you feel sorry for me, let me just say I am glad. My husband used to come home with flowers often in the beginning of our relationship, but soon I realized it depressed me when the flowers died. Which they all do eventually! So, he gets me fake rose petals, candles and candy. This year I even got a stuffed purple hedgehog! Heehee!
While I was at my daughter's class Valentine's party, we mothers were grouped together taking pictures and chatting. They were comparing what their husbands had gotten them, dozens of roses, a necklace, diamond earrings, 5 pound box of Godiva chocolate, tickets to a play. As I listened to the accounts given, in rapid fire shots, it reminded me of men in a pissing contest. When the attention turned to me and they eyed me with a look daring me to outdo them in their gift count, I smiled and said I got a hedgehog. I wish I had taken my camera!!
I almost couldn't wait to get in the car to laugh! and boy did I laugh!

Chronic Complainers

2008-02-14T14:01:00.000-08:00

I have been married for a while now. Less than a decade, but long enough to know that there are many women, and men, who complain about their spouse just to complain. I find my self in social settings with groups of women who make a comment about their husband and everyone agrees with a "mm-hmm, I know that!" And I have to wonder, do they really? Or are they just being agreeable for the storytellers sake? I never say anything.
My husband works all week and I stay home with the kids. On Saturdays I work an early shift, but I am usually home for the afternoon and evening. While I am away, he gets the kids breakfast and then they clean house for me! It is phenomenal! But when I bring this up to other women they look at me like I have a second head. I can never tell what they are thinking. They either don't believe me or they think I am shirking my duties.
I find this act of helpfulness to be very romantic. It is hard to get away for romantic evenings or even stay awake on school nights! So these "little things" make me feel the warm fuzzies! I make dinner for him every night, home-cooked, not frozen. I bake and do laundry. So why is it that some women give me that look? Why should I feel bad that my husband helps out? Are they jealous? Or do they really think the woman should do it all?