That's What It's All About

Book Review

2009-10-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Ahhhh reading. A love of mine - a love that, unfortunately, these days gets little or no attention. Sigh. I am surrounded by books that call to me. However, I am also surrounded by two toddlers, hubby, housework and laundry...and well, lets just say, life. When I find a pocket of time to read - it's a treasure.

However, I love it when I find a book that captures my attention and makes me find time to read it. That's how it was with this novel, The Help by Kathryn Stockett.

Being a girl who has no Southern roots, this book was very eye-opening for me. It has given me a deep, deep respect for African-Americans that I can honestly say I did not have before reading this. It has left me thinking about certain issues, weeks after finishing the work. Excellent.

In addition, Kathryn does an superb job in using three different voices throughout the book. I was very surprised to learn that this is her first book! I felt that I was reading a well seasoned author - and hope there will be more to come!

So, now I feel like I'm one of the kids in Reading Rainbow, looking at the camera, ending my book recommendation with: "so get to your local library and pick up this book!"

Our Little Orange....

2009-10-28T22:31:00.002-05:00

Today we had our first OB appt - yes, it was the first, (with this baby) and yes I'm 18 weeks today! I stalled making that first appointment because I was in a bit of denial about baby number 3. Then, when I knew that I knew and called to make my appt - the soonest they could get me in was a month a week away! What?

My doctor's practice has grown a lot in the past year - the first time she saw me with Baby Brother I was able to come in the next week. She was also in the process of starting her practice - and her office was being built...so I had all of my OB visits at a Emergency Clinic. All of the labs and ultra sounds had to be outsourced to other practices. Today, I went into her new office, with all the bells and whistles - and it was lovely!!! She wheeled the ultra sound machine into the room and did the sonogram right there. She has nurses, and two receptionists....(at the Emergency clinic she had one nurse who was also the receptionist). Things have changed a bit!

So, everything looks great. We saw our baby and heard that sweet heartbeat. The baby is measuring at exactly 18 weeks today, making the due date March 31st. It will be a scheduled C-section. We will find out the gender the day before Thanksgiving - and I am excited.

The baby weighs 7 ounces - Hubby headed to the grocery store to find a piece of fruit that weighed 7 ounces. He sent me at text that said "It's an orange!" :)

A Lovely Autumn Morning

2009-10-28T08:06:00.004-05:00

I am loving autumn here in Austin. I am discovering that it's more like our summertime - lovely days, and cool nights. It's so nice that the temps are not hovering in the 100's anymore! On a recent Saturday morning, I took advantage of the nice weather and set up our breakfast table outside. I had fed the kids earlier, so it was just a nice meal for my hubby and I, while the kids played outside.

I enjoyed puling out and using my nicer plates and tableware - something I need to do more often!

Baked this recipe -and they didn't last very long... sooo yummy!And made Colorado Quiche - a recipe I haven't had in years. This too is so good, but there's a reason....butter, cheese, whipping cream, bacon....need I say more?

Colorado Quiche

1 prepared 9 inch pie crust in pie pan
1 c sliced fresh mushrooms
1 T. butter
1 c grated cheddar cheese
1 10 oz pkg. frozen chopped spinach thawed, squeezed very dry
3 eggs
1 1/2 c whipping cream
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp sugar
1/4 tsp crushed garlic
1/2 tsp onion salt
1/8 tsp freshly ground pepper
6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/3 c Parmesan cheese

Cook mushrooms in butter until soft. Drain and set aside. Sprinkle cheddar cheese into bottom of pie crust. In large bowl, combine spinach, eggs, cream, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, garlic, onion salt, pepper, mushrooms, and bacon. Pour into crust. Sprinkle with Parmesan. Bake at 350 for 50-60 minutes, until knife inserted in middle comes out clean.

Enjoy! :)

The Sweet Berry Farm

2009-10-26T21:58:00.005-05:00

Yesterday we headed out to the Sweet Berry Farm - and had a great time. We went last year, but had a completely different experience this year. Last year we pretty much had the farm to ourselves - this year, it was very crowded - but still lots of fun.

Our Big News

2009-10-05T09:09:00.003-05:00

Yes...it's true. Our sweet Baby Brother is not going to be Baby Brother for much longer. We are going to have another little one at the end of March!

I know it's been pretty silent around here - and this pregnancy being one big reason. The first trimester was pretty rough. But we made it through and I'm singing the praises of second trimester glory!!! :)

Love,
Rebecca

2009-07-31T22:01:00.001-05:00

Happy First Birthday!

2009-07-31T14:10:00.000-05:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Show Us Your Life - The Dress

2009-07-24T13:10:00.007-05:00

Recently, for multiple reasons, I have been reminiscent of our wedding day.

If you are on Facebook you may have seen this going around. I watched it today and I'll be honest, it made me laugh and cry at the same time - I know, I know, it's packed full of joy. And I think that's just it. Marriage is a joyful thing. When the bumps and tears and frustrations of life occur, it's easy to forget the joy of that day. The joy of commitment. The joy of people gathering to celebrate you and your love of one another. The joy of the day that's yours alone.

After watching the video I clicked over to my Bloglines to read my favs for a few minutes. When I read on Kelly's blog that today is show the dress day, I couldn't resist. It's the perfect opportunity to take a walk down memory lane.

Okay, so here it is from Head to Toe.

I loved the tiny details that my dress had. Tiny flowers are something that I have always loved - and to find a wedding dress with elegant tiny flowers all over it - I knew it had to be mine!

To see more dresses, or to show off yours - visit Kelly's blog. Thanks Kelly for the fun time!

Pretty Much Our Favorite Place Ever....

2009-06-17T06:45:00.001-05:00

No, our favorite place is not the Catfish Parlour. Painted on the side of this building is a mural of fish, which is so very convincing to the mind of a two year old - what else could it be but Sea World? And every time we drive by, he claims we are on our way to Sea World. So, to Sea World we must go. This spring we have made two trips to Sea World San Antonio - and each time we have had an absolute blast.

We went one time last year - and it made quite an impression on Little One. The park has a deal where you buy a ticket and it is good for admission all year long! And Little One is free until he turn three, so we wanted to get the most out of his free ticket.

Here's some highlights of our last two trips -

Staying Dry - (Or Not...) The second time it POURED rain...

Feeding the Dolphins
And the Sea Lions
See that little brown spec in the middle of the picture? The wind blew some poor lady's hat off her head and right into the sea lion pool. The sea lions were thrilled that they had a new toy - and the overseer of the pool had a heck of a time trying to fish the hat out. The overseer and his net was slightly outnumbered!
And ourselves...my goodness, we usually don't buy much at amusement parks. I was shocked when I looked in our wagon to see how much loot we had accumulated throughout the day. Now, granted, we went with another family, so some of the stuff is theirs - but we have enough Shamu paraphernalia to last a while!

This was a big moment - talking for about 10 minutes with Dad about the roller coaster. In the past, he has been very afraid and hesitant about riding the roller coaster. "It's too loud!" He would say - and when we walked pass he would cover his ears and cower. But, after watching and talking it over with Dad....
He did it! And he had a great time. Afterwords he ran down the ramp, over to me, eager to share the experience. "You want to ride the roller coaster with me Mama?" How can you say no to that? So we rode it a second time. So much fun.
And of course, watching the shows. There are two shows that we are particular fans of, Viva (acrobats, dolphins and beluga whales) and Believe (Killer Whales). The shows have been a great tool for our dramatic play at home! We play acrobats almost daily. We also play that I am Mama Baby Beluga, Baby Brother is Shamu and Little One is John the Killer Whale Trainer. I think you get the idea of who's in charge of that....
This is how Little One spends a lot of the time at the shows. He is so sensitive to sound. Although, I did notice by the end of the second time, he spent less time covering his ears...

The five'o clock power nap. Yep, he is sawing Z's....the crazy things we parents do in order to get a full night's rest! He had made it this far without taking a nap - and the last thing we were going to do was get in the car and let him sleep for a good hour and a half and be wide awake for the rest of the night. So, we allowed a good power nap - had dinner, rode the roller coaster and took in another show before heading home.

About to pop...

2009-06-16T06:20:00.004-05:00

Howdy from Colorado! The boys and I are on vacation - and we've had a lovely time. We are spending time with cousins, grandparents, and friends. And, most importantly, we are waiting for the arrival of Allison's baby! I can't wait to meet this little one! I can't wait to find out if I'm going to have a niece or nephew! The baby is due June 22nd....the countdown is on!

To see more pics of Ally and her beautiful belly - my friend Heather has been at it again - you can click here and here.

Memorial Day

2009-05-26T06:32:00.002-05:00

My friend Lara wrote a beautiful post about a Memorial Day encounter she had yesterday. Go over and take a few minutes to read it. It left me speechless and certainly grateful for the sacrifice fellow men and women have given so that I may have freedom. Thank you!

Restoring Order

2009-05-25T19:15:00.003-05:00

I am excited to host the Restoring Order series this week! On my agenda, it's sorting, tossing and filing stacks of paper. This includes my coupon organizer. I can confidently say that I think it's going to get done, as I've already spent a good hour on it this morning. I am ready to be done with stacks of paper! (For the time being anyway....)

What are your plans for tackling a little project in your home to bring a little order? Be sure to check back here on Friday and we can cheer each other on! :)

Lady Wisdom builds a lovely home - Proverbs 14:1A

Not Me! Monday...

2009-05-18T19:25:00.004-05:00

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

I have been following McMama's blog for a couple of months now - and I thought it would be fun to join in. So, here's a little list of things I certainly didn't do this week....

I have not allowed Little One to eat more gummi worms than any other type of food for the past two days - all in the name of potty training. Nope, not me!
When in Target, by myself, I did not buy a hot pretzel and coke just because I was by myself - and just wanted to.
I did not go above my budget and purchase this magazine at Walgreens yesterday just because I am so curious about what is going on. Not me!
And this morning I certainly did not roll over and go back to sleep until 7:38 because all of my children were sleeping - and oh, the sleep did not at all feel divine.
I totally did not write this post while I should have been fixing dinner. Not me!

Want to join in? Or, would you like to read more? Visit here.

Feeding the pigs.

2009-05-18T08:04:00.005-05:00

One of the things I miss about Colorado is the Farmers' Market in Old Colorado City. I love a good farmers' market on a Saturday morning. It's the perfect way to start out the weekend. Anyway, the only one I have been able to find here in Austin is located downtown, which is a good 30+minute drive (if there's no traffic) and I just haven't been able to get down there on a Saturday morning.

Until this weekend. My only goal this Saturday was to go and find the market. As we headed out - it started to rain - but we went anyway and beat the rainstorm by just a few minutes. We were able to scout it out and it is a super cool market (with live music!).

I can't wait to go back when I'm not threatened by getting drenched! And, when I go back, I'm going to leave enough time check out this place.

Here's what we came home with - Fresh eggs (SO EXCITED ABOUT THAT), a bundle of onions, a free reusable shopping bag and one carrot. Yep, one carrot. Little One was slightly confused about what a farmer's market was. He was certain that we were going to a farm and that he was going to see pigs and cows.

When we got back to our car after a mad dash through the rain, Little One had a carrot in hand. Neither one of us saw him pick it up - and we have no idea which table he snatched it from. In his words - "I've got a carrot for the pig! Let's go feed him!" In his sweet mind, all these tables held food for us to feed to the animals - and he chose a carrot to feed the pig.

So, much of the car ride home was trying to explain that we don't take things from the tables unless we pay - and what exactly a farmers' market is. It's pretty much clear as mud.

On a completely different note, the bouquet in the back ground - that is my Mother's Day bouquet - and it is just lovely. The Lillis opened up on Saturday - and they are gorgeous! I don't think I've ever had a bouquet that has lasted this long and just keeps getting prettier.

We all scream...

2009-05-15T14:54:00.004-05:00

Yep, it's warming up here in Texas. This past week it's been in the high 90's. And we're lovin it! In the words of Little One..."I'm so glad it's hot outside so we can eat ice cream!"

A Morning's Notes to Self....

2009-05-14T14:08:00.007-05:00

When brewing a cup of coffee in a single cup coffee maker, it's a good idea to put the mug under the dispenser.

Do not take your very social, ready to join in any game, son along with you when you are shopping for a preschool. I might as well had put him smack dabb in the middle of a candy store and told him he couldn't have anything. (Someone is way ready for pre-school I might add...)

If you do take your son with you, watch him at all times because he may run out the door and hop into the empty seat on the big red stroller that holds eight babies - and then you'll have to explain to him why he can't go for a ride when he so desperately wants to.

Be extra sure there are not random leaves, twigs or bite size anythings lying on the floor.

Refresh your memory on how to do finger swipes with a gagging baby.

Tears are okay.

Having a friend who lets those tears fall and then makes you smile in the thick of it, is a blessing and treasure.

A good nap for baby, toddler and mama, (at the same time!!) does wonders.

Mercy, Mercy!

2009-05-12T13:04:00.004-05:00

Well, we're back. We had a great trip to CO and I have pictures to share - except I can't find my silly USB chord. I may have left it in CO? Maybe it's in that one random suitcase pocket where you find treasures you thought were long gone until the next time you go on a trip? Maybe a certain toddler ran off with it and who knows where I'll find it? Regardless, I have to figure something out because my memory card is full. And you'll know when I find it because there will be pictures on the blog!

Right now I feel a tad bit overwhelmed with all that there is to do around here. To be honest, I don't know where to start. I am tired. Rightly so, because both of my children are having sleeping issues. My toddler doesn't want to go to bed without Mama by his side. Every night we have had a long battle of the will over staying in bed. The battle ends way too late and my personal time is gone.

Then it happens again at about 3 AM - only this time he is so scared because no one is awake. This wakes up baby brother. You get the picture. I am so sleepy and tired. And grumpy.

Mama was definitely a bear this morning. It's so hard to be merciful and loving when disobedience and disrespect are present. My attitude and words this morning have been pretty grrrrowwwllly. This morning we went to story time at the library. It took way too much effort to get us all out of the door and into the car. When we arrived,(20 minutes late) I opened the van door to see two sets of very precious eyes looking at me. The blue eyes of Little One danced with anticipation for what we were off to do. Baby Brother's deep brown eyes followed his big brother's lead and just smiled broadly. And in that moment, I wanted to just sit down and have a good cry.

After a rough morning, (and night too) they still look to me with all of the admiration and trust that is so endearing. What a gift. What a huge responsibility!

On my refrigerator I have a poster that reads Micah 7:18 "God Delights In Showing Mercy." My poster is an every day, or some days, every moment, reminder that I need to show mercy to myself - as well as show mercy to my family. And to thank him that he shows his mercy to me every single day. This morning was not a morning with a whole lot of mercy on my part. I am hoping to change that this afternoon. The boys are sleeping right now -I'm going to go refresh myself, and hope we can have a mercy filled fun afternoon - and get things back on track.

And, maybe I'll come across the USB chord. Lord, have Mercy! :)

Restoring Order

2009-05-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

Well I didn't even get to my project. However, I left my house in really good order - which felt great!

So, how about you? Tell us about it!

Restoring Order - the reading nook

2009-04-27T05:00:00.001-05:00

I hope you had a restful weekend. I am looking forward to the week ahead - as there is a lot planned. We are leaving town Wednesday - so I'm going to be bustling about packing and whatnot. But, I have one little project that I'd like to accomplish before we leave town.

This week I'm back in the boy's room. Right now there is a bookshelf that contains a lot of stuff - but no rhyme or reason to it. I'd like to move that bookcase out of the boys room and create a reading area. And I'd like to gather all the kids books throughout the house so they are in one place. The only exception would be the ones that are good night stories. Those will be located in their room.

That's it for me - How about you? What project are you hoping to wrap up this week?

Even though I'll be out of town, I'll be sure to post Mr Linky on Friday - so we can keep it up!

Yeah for Sunday Musings!

2009-04-26T20:23:00.004-05:00

It's Sunday night at 8:30 and The Red Sox and the Yankees are playing on Sunday night baseball. I love Sunday night baseball. Every time I come downstairs from putting the boys to bed and Sunday night baseball is on - it just makes me happy. And tonight it's the Yankees and the Red Sox - which always makes me happy because the first year I followed baseball was the banner year when the Red Sox beat Yanks for the American League Championship. Go Sox! :) The first year I followed baseball was the first banner year when I fell wildly in love with the man who is now my husband. Yeah happy memories!

This weekend was a really great weekend. We got some good projects done around the house - and I got some good pampering. (Thank you my Love!) We made it to church this morning.

Church. We have lived in Texas for a year - and still have not found that home sweet home. But, the church we have attended three times now - seems to be a good fit. The service is okay - but the children's department is what keeps us coming back. Every time we pick Little One up he can verbalize and talk about what he has learned. This morning he said "Jesus tells me to obey my parents!" There is a puppet (blue and named Alfred? Alfie? I try to gather all the info I can..)who the kids see every week - and the puppet's message sticks. Yeah for the puppet! Baby Brother came home with a sticker on his bum that said he had been changed. Good to know. On Easter Little One had a sticker on his shirt that read: "I am always with you. Matthew 28:20" I peeled his little sticker off and put it on the back of my cell phone. I was greatly ministerd to through that little sticker - The Lord is with my son. The Lord is with me. Medicine to a mother's heart. Yeah for the sitckers!!

And speaking of Little One - he is so little yet so big.

Yesterday Daddy brought home Kung Fu Panda. Our world will never be the same. This morning he said to his daddy -
"I'm going to pin you."
"oh yeah?"
"Lay down your coffee Dad. I'm going to pin you."

I was so proud of him! Well, because he waited long enough to observe what his Daddy was doing before going into full wrestling mode.

He seems to be brimming with toddlerness this week. He has a new fascination with running around naked. He has ALL OF THE SUDDEN become SUPER PICKY about his shoes and his shorts. What? When? Why??? Today walking from Sunday school we had to stop and "get the grass out!" of his sandals way too many times. We had a full blown crying temper tantrum this morning because he wasn't wearing shorts and his pants were coverning THE SHOES! As a compromise, he went to church wearing the pants - rolled up mid-calf.

At the park this week he almost punched a kid because - well, the other boy was two. And in his world - there is only ONE two year old. The conversation was quite hilarious.
Zander:"I'm two."
Little One:"No I'm two."
Zander"I'm two."
This goes on for awhile.
Little One:"I'M TWO!" Fist going up in the air.
Me:"Little One, don't hit your friend. Put your hand down. Good job."
Little One"I'm two. You are twenty three." then turning to Zander's dad - "Zander is twenty three. I'm two."

Zander just turned two and didn't know what to do with that. So he changed the subject to talk about Thomas and Percy. Good job Zander. Yeah for being two!

And now, it is Sunday night. My house is a complete disaster. I love the weekend - I just can't believe the aftermath. Lots to do tomorrow.

This week the boys and I will be traveling - my BFF all the way from ninth grade(!) is getting married next week! So the boys and I are off to CO for a week packed full of events. Being the Matron of Honor and all that entails - and then attending two baby showers. I know!

And speaking of Baby Showers. Did you know that Babies R Us has a rewards card? It's one of the cards you scan when you buy something there and it keeps track of how much you spent and gives you coupons and dollars back. I didn't know - but if you buy lots of baby gifts there it might be a good thing to know.

That's all I've got for now.

I'll be checking in throughout the week - hope you have a great one!

Rebecca

Restoring Order - Refrigerator and Pantry

2009-04-24T14:09:00.007-05:00

I love working together on these projects! Knowing that I'm going to report at the end of the week has been so helpful. Just this week my husband said that the house is feeling more empty and feeling good! That was music to my ears!

So, this week I decided to tackle the fridge and the pantry. Like Monica, I was so surprised how little time it took to actually get things into shape. Okay - so here are my before pics:

And here are my after:

This is my fabulous spice rack. Having different sizes and shapes of spice bottles was impossible to keep in order. Plus, it was very time consuming when it came time to bake/cook because I was looking through all of the bottles. This little project was an anniversary gift from my Mother In Law. We found the bottles at Ikea and the labels at Bed Bath and Beyond. It took some time transferring the spices into the bottles, and then labeling them - but let me tell you, it has been a huge time saver in the long run. This is one of my favorite departments of my kitchen! Let me add, that not all of the spices were listed in the label package, so having my own label maker came in handy.

This is my little helper. He was totally content to sit and play with the wooden spoon the whole time I worked.This afternoon we have to go to the monster wal-mart run. It will be nice to come home to a clean and organized fridge and pantry!

And the winner is...

2009-04-20T20:32:00.002-05:00

The winner of our first Restoring Order giveaway is Anna at Montana Wegners. Congratulations! Anna, if you would please email me at twiaamail(at)yahoo(dot)com I will get your gift card and scrapbook organizer to you!
Good job everyone! Let's keep at it! :)

Giveaway update.

2009-04-20T08:18:00.003-05:00

Good Morning! I realize that I promised to announce the winner yesterday afternoon - but we went out of town and got home (way) later than originally planned. I have a toddler who just told me "I need something to eat". So, our day begins. I will draw and post the winner later this afternoon. :)

Finding Blue Bonnet Fields....

2009-04-18T01:11:00.005-05:00

One of the comments that was left on my Blue Bonnet post was how did I find the field and where was it? Well, the field is in Austin - and sorry, but I don't know the first thing about where there might be Blue Bonnets in Houston. I wish I could help - because I know the feeling! You've asked a excellent question.

Last year, being my first year in TX, I was completely clueless to the Blue Bonnet photo op - and I had no idea where to go and totally missed my opportunity.

This year, I googled, and searched, but the most successful route - Word of Mouth. I just asked a lot of different people. My neighbor heard about the field where we took our pictures at the library story time!

And guess what? This field is three minutes from my house between a doctor office and a nursing home!

Restoring Order - End of Week Wrap Up

2009-04-16T23:08:00.007-05:00

Okay, so how'd you do? My goal list was way too long. I only accomplished most of the first goal. Most of the boy's clothes are sorted. (Yeah!) I have a large garbage bag for donations. (Yippee!) Now I just need to wrap up the project by organizing their current clothes and fitting them in the space we have. I found this at a local consignment store. (One of my favs!) and I am trying to decide how to use them. I am leaning towards labeling the type of clothing for my infant. (pj's, everyday, church etc) But can also see the benefit of doing size. We'll see.

Okay - so here's my before and after.
Now, I am not going to go and take a picture of the closet, because, well, there's two sleeping boys in there - and we wouldn't want to do anything to change that! But, just imagine an empty closet, and all the little baby clothes hanging so nicely. If I get a chance tomorrow I may post a picture, but I make no promises.

About the organization part - all of the tubs are about 3/4 full. Ruth made a comment how Carrie uses boxes that paper comes in - and I think that is a fabulous idea. I have asked my husband's secretary to start saving the boxes for me. I also am going to store/sort according to seasons. We do a lot of traveling to CO - and need lots more winter clothes when we go there than we do here in Austin. When packing, it will be easier to grab the winter box for the appropriate age.

It does feel so good to get this done! Knowing you all were behind me helped a ton!

Okay, now for the fun part. If you did some de-cluttering this past week and post about it today or tomorrow, your name will go in a drawing for a 15.00 gift card to Joann Fabric - along with one of these. (Except yours will be chocolate brown and blue.)

There are a few things to do to be eligible:
1.) Post about your de-cluttering project and link back to either mine or Monica's blog.
2.) If you post before and after pictures your name will go in twice.

That's it!

So, link up to Mr. Linky by Saturday 6:00 pm and I'll post the winner Sunday afternoon.

Restoring Order - Mid-week check in...

2009-04-15T09:38:00.003-05:00

Okay, so it's the middle of the week already! How's your de-cluttering project coming along? Thank you for all of your great tips and ideas! They have been really helpful. Here's my mid-week progress:
Looks like a big mess - doesn't it? Oh no, this is sorting and more sorting in action. I am the only one in the whole world who knows what all these piles mean. And, they are soon ready to be boxed or given away. Unfortunately, the boys toy room is off limits for the time being!

Remember, I am going to be giving a little incentive for all who participate - and here's a little hint.

Have a great day - and happy de-cluttering! :)

Texas Blue Bonnets

2009-04-15T06:28:00.005-05:00

Yesterday I took the boys to a nearby field of Texas Blue Bonnets. I think we had two different motives in mind, I wanted to get that "perfect shot" and they were into exploring. Oh well. It was fun nonetheless!

To Rule and Subdue

2009-04-13T00:40:00.000-05:00

My friend, Monica and I are starting a new series today! I am so excited about this and hope that you will join in.

Monica is one of my kindred spirit friends. She and I went to high school together and have kept in touch as we have walked different avenues of life. Now, we both have little kids and share in the ups and downs of motherhood. Last week we were talking about managing clutter - and thus this series was birthed!

Each week (we'll alternate) one of us will post an area we'll be working on de-cluttering, organizing, purging, etc...and then later in the week we'll post photographs and have a Mr. Linky for you to join! It is so much more fun to do this kind of thing when we are doing it together and have the encouragement of one another.

So, here's my thoughts and heart about the clutter. Right now, with two little children, clutter seems to overtake everything. It is something I have been working hard at since January. I have seriously made three or four Goodwill trips a month. And guess what? I am nowhere near done! It seems to be like an onion - layer after layer I find more stuff and more reasons for it all to go.

I have been seeking a lot of advice and instruction in this area - as it is one that I seriously struggle with - and want change! And it seems, the more clutter, the bigger the mess, meaning the more time and energy I put into trying to keep an orderly home. I hope to share some of my discoveries as this series progresses.

When I was single and right before I met my husband, I went through a Bible Study called the Five Aspects of Woman. One of the aspects is called Mistress of the Domain. In recent weeks I have revisited this concept - and it has helped me tremendously as I attempt to bring order into my home. The concept is taken from Genesis 1:26-28
"Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground."

So God created man in his own image,
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them.

God blessed them and said to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground."

God has given us the authority and he has also commanded us to rule and subdue that which has been entrusted to us. I find such power in this idea. I have the authority to rule over my home and the stuff that's inside. But, I have also been instructed to do so. The study defines these two verbs as:

RULE - "To rule means to make authoritative decisions regarding a matter's course and destiny."

SUBDUE- "to bring under control by conquest and keep under control by diligent maintenance."

(taken from the Five Aspects of Woman Bible Study by Barbara Mouser)

These definitions help me as I conquer the areas of my house that need attention. I want to rule over the clutter, rather than the clutter rule me and my home. I want to be diligent by developing systems that will help in subduing it. And finally, I desire to produce and home that is welcoming and peaceful. However, let me be the first to say that these are my desires - and boy do I have a long way to go!

I am excited that we can work on this together. See my post below to see the area that I'm going to rule and subdue this week. I hope that you'll join in and come back and tell us about your ruling and subduing at the end of the week. We can do it! As a little incentive, I am going to be offering a giveaway for all who participate. Check back on Friday to see what it's going to be...

Okay, Ready? Set? GO!!!

Restoring Order - Project Number One

2009-04-13T00:30:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I've gone back and forth about where to start. And I've decided to start with the thing that gnaws at me every time I need to go into my boy's room. And, quite frankly, I am sick of the overwhelming feeling that overtakes me when I go in their room to do anything. What is it that is so demanding of my attention and energy? It's their clothes. AAAAAHHHH!!! Their closet is brimming over with clothes from sizes newborn to 4T.

So, my focus this week is my boy's room. Here are the things I hope to get done:

go through all of the clothes and organize the ones I want to keep and donate the ones we don't need.
Find and purchase a new rocking chair (The one we had became a safety hazard when we realized that little toes and fingers can easily get smooshed (or worse!) and it had to go. But, oh we need a new one!!!)
Move bookcase out of the room and create a reading corner outside of the room

Okay - so I've taken my before pics and hopefully will have some great after pics to take as well.

How about you? Do you have any tips on organizing children clothing? If so, please share!

Easter 2009

2009-04-13T00:23:00.005-05:00

Helping Mama make apple pie - even with a double ear ache!

Our first try at dying eggs. Most of the eggs didn't make it to the "hide me" stage.

Trying to get that perfect "Easter Morning" shot. The rain outside didn't help.

Nana and Grandpa sent some pretty awesome Easter Baskets. Thank you!! :)

Getting ready to leave for church, then off to some friend's for dinner and fellowship. I love how Baby Brother is watching Little One's every move. (Oh, and he's so loving this thing they call standing....)

It was a full and wonderful day.

Palm Sunday

2009-04-09T08:28:00.002-05:00

This past Sunday I was a little disappointed when we awoke with two sick kids and a sick mommy, meaning church would not be in our agenda for the day. I was sad because Palm Sunday is one of my favorite Sundays to attend church.

I can remember many Sundays growing up when I'd arrive at church and was handed a beautiful palm branch to carry with me throughout the morning. Every year I would savor that branch. I can remember years when there was no branches handed out, and I would feel a little bummed. Then, as I got older, I realized the day meant that the next week I would come to church in a brand new dress and shoes. Lots of years that new dress would have been made by my Grandma, and it was certain to have the perfect twirling element that every little girl loves when it comes to twirly dresses. Ah, sweet memories.

And then, as my relationship with the Lord developed, I realized the significance of the day. I wonder how Jesus went through that day when he knew all too well the pain and betrayal that would come from those same mouths. Time and time again God knew the heart of man, he knew full well what is to come and yet responds and extends a full fist of love, grace and mercy. That is the God of then, and that is the God of today. I find such peace in that aspect of him.

He knows the full heart of man. I can say this, because as I awoke saddened that we wouldn't be a church on Palm Sunday - there were also lots of other things going on in my heart. All week long I had a desire to have a fresh bouquet of flowers. I love how a bouquet brightens my kitchen. I can go for a long time not even thinking about a bouquet. But then, something inside me stirs and I want a bouquet. When this happens, I'll ask Hubs to stop and get me one. Or sometimes I will just pick one up while I am at the store. One or two times I've done both!

However, this past week, my longing for a bouquet was never voiced as every trip to the grocery store was the type where there was no space to even think about stopping at the floral department. Both my husband's week and my week was filled with taking care of business or sick kids, or...you get the idea.

Back to Palm Sunday morning. My sweet Hubby went out to run some errands while the kids napped and I clipped the Sunday coupons. He returned with a beautiful bouquet! And, not only that, in the bouquet there was a palm branch and two peace lilies! He did not know of my sadness of not going to church, nor did he know that I had wanted a bouquet of flowers all week long. I have to believe that a higher power had something to do with that.

The next day the great crowd that had come for the Feast heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting,
"Hosanna!"
"Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!"
"Blessed is the King of Israel!" Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it, as it is written,
"Do not be afraid, O Daughter of Zion;
see, your king is coming,
seated on a donkey's colt."
John 12:12-15

Yes, the Lord knows the heart of man. He knows the pain and darkness and he knows the rich, deep needs and the seemingly simple desires. And I believe that He has come, He delivers and satisfies.

On this Easter weekend, take time to savor and rest in the blessed gift our Lord has extended to us. Our deliverer has come and has defeated the grave. Hosanna!

The Kind of Week We're Having...This Pretty Much Sums It All Up.

2009-04-07T14:07:00.005-05:00

Four Coughing Mouths
Three Calls to the Nurse
Two Trips to the Doctor in one week for our sweet Baby Brother
One Messy House

Need I say more?

A Pretty Great Deal

2009-04-05T12:15:00.002-05:00

In today's Sunday paper coupons there is a rebate form to get a turkey or ham for free. Of course, nothing is for free. You have to buy 40.00 of unlivever products in a month's time - and send in your receipts. When I looked into it, I discovered that we use a lot of these products - so I'm going to give it a try.

Family Favorites...

2009-03-27T23:41:00.002-05:00

So, we've got some things around here that I want to tell you about....

A friend suggested that I give this recipe a try. And, let me tell you, it was MMMMMMM Good, a big hit with my hubby and it was super easy!! However, don't bother to even look at the recipe if you're counting calories.

Also, while in the food department, we tried Target brand (Archer Farms) Black Bean and Roasted Red Pepper Salsa - and it was SO good. I'd almost say the best store bought salsa I've had.

I recently bought one of these - and let me just tell you, it has become my hero. I hate to mop. Especially with this mop bucket. It takes way too much time. With my new friend, I can mop the kitchen and family room in under 10 minutes. Also, it uses no cleaners! However, if there is something on the floor that needs a little elbow grease, I spray a small amount of cleaner and it does the job. I really like that with a baby whose about ready to begin crawling.

My friend Lauren blogged about this and Baby Brother is a big fan.

And, I'm always looking for fun music to fill our day. She has been a fun addition to our library.

"These Are the Days We'll Remember..."

2009-03-26T13:34:00.005-05:00

"When you called, all three of us were in the back of the van. Little One was hanging over the back seat, one foot hanging over baby brother's head. I was trying to get Baby Brother buckled in, all of the doors of the van were opened - and rain was pouring down." As I retold the story to my sweet hubby, I imagined to anyone walking by that the situation might have looked quite hilarious. We both smiled and he said "These are the days we are going to remember..." and he's right.

Yesterday was a day I will not forget in a long time. The morning and afternoon had gone particularly smooth and quiet. When the boys got up from their nap I decided to cart us all to the Y so I could get a good workout. Now, to all of you out there who think that going to workout in the middle of the day with kids in tow is a easy thing...I tell you, it's not. Oh, don't get me wrong, I am forever grateful that I have a place where I can drop the kids off and go workout. But, the process and work it takes to actually get to the treadmill is Oh.My.Word.

Anyway, an hour and half later, I walked into the gym and every elliptical machine was in use. Darn. Then, one of the buds on my headphones broke. Grr. While I was working out, every TV screen was broadcasting that there was going to be some severe thunderstorms in the area. OK. Got it. I'm the first to admit that I never take those things seriously. Until now.

After my workout I head to the locker room and hope to take a quick shower before picking up the kids. The locker room is empty. I jump in the shower and hear the rain pounding on the roof. I think I should hurry - but then think that I have extra time due to the weather and letting the storm pass before we go out to the car. Ha Ha Ha. All of the sudden I hear lots of voices and then a lady calls out:
"Is anyone in here?"
"Yes..."
"We're bringing all the kids in here because the weather is so bad. I just wanted to let you know."

WHAT??? And I'm not kidding, all the nursery kids, the gymnastics classes, teachers, (males!!) and parents were all crammed jammed into the locker room. And let me tell you, never ever have I been so grateful that I had my gym bag with me and that I didn't have to tread through the locker room draped in a towel. Children were crying - understandably so! So I scurried to get dressed - and wondered where my children were. Rushing out into the crowd dressed, but hair sopping wet, there was my Little One standing with hand in hand teacher with a little red guitar in hand. Baby Brother was being held by another teacher. Phew. By this time, the worst part of the storm had passed and we were able to leave our "shelter".

So, I gather my kids - and we make our way out to the car. It's still a down pour. Little One looks out and and says wide-eyed "Come on Mom! It will be fun!" So, when it lets up a little bit, we make a dash. Thinking I had a brilliant idea, I flung open the tail gate of the van and piled Little One in and just picked up Baby Brother's stroller - baby and all. (Love stow and go seating) Thus, the scene painted in the opening paragraph. Brilliant indeed.

After we got home, I was feeding Baby Brother, and Little One came to me and said "Do you want to see me ice-skate?" And the bathroom floor was covered in hand soap suds - which, does indeed, make a great toddler ice skating rink.

So, here's some photo documentary of our day:

Our backyard after the hail storm.

The ice-skating rink

Little One feeds Baby Brother.

So, yes, it was a day. But faces like this make it completely worth it.

Alternate titles for this post:
Are You Kidding Me?
Yes, This is what I look like when I get out of the shower
A Day In Paradise

comparing...

2009-03-17T08:30:00.006-05:00

Little One at six months

Baby Brother at six months

Test, Test, Is this thing on???

2009-03-16T14:34:00.003-05:00

I don't know if there is anybody out there who might be reading this, as my posts have been few and far between. The deal is that there has been so much going on around here and blogging and computer time is very low on the priority list.

Let me explain. I am in an unfamiliar season. I am in a season of stability - and am learning how to navigate and determine how to set our home and life up. Huh? Does that make any sense? Well, In the past three years I have either been a newly wed, pregnant, a new mom, financially strapped, moving, pregnant and then a momma of two! That's a lot of changes. And in all of that, there has been little time to really determine and establish a lot of things. For example: Our decorating style. What and why we use what we use. (rooms, storage, stuff) Where does it all go? And what kind of routine works for the boys and I? For some strange reason I thought that all of these things just kinda plopped into place. Not so. It turns out I am going back to basics 101. And now, for the first time in three years, I am not pregnant, am getting some good sleep, and have more stability than I've had in a long time. Sigh. It's a good feeling.

And boy, is it hard work. To be honest, there are lots of days that I just fall into bed and am asleep before my head even hits the pillow. There is no energy or time left to blog.

Another thing that is going on around here is that I am trying to shed after baby weight. It's a hard thing - and yet one I am determined to overcome. I have joined Weight Watchers - and through that, I've realized that the food issue is really a heart issue. Enough said on that for now. Perhaps there may be future posts on this issue?

In all of this, I haven't had a lot to say on the blog. I know "blog mode" when walking through everyday life and see or hear something and I immediately start writing a post in my head. It's just not been there.

Until this weekend. And, funny, all of the sudden, I have a whole list of posts stewing. So, maybe I'm getting back into my blog mode. Maybe it's the outlet I need in the midst of all that's going on. I don't know.

Well both of my little men just woke up and need something. Little One was searching for his new Thomas engine "will you help me?"and now is singing row row row your boat and strumming daddy's bass - and Baby Brother is waiting oh so patiently for his bottle. Gotta scoot.

See you soon! :)

Seven Months!

2009-02-28T06:42:00.003-06:00

Baby Brother is seven months today! Here's some of what we've been up to...This week the weather has been GORGEOUS! Yesterday my car outside temp reader said it was 93 degrees! We've spent a ton of time out and about. Two days ago we tried the park swing - he wasn't too sure what to think.

This is our neighbor and friend Baby P. She is a month younger than Baby Brother. Her mama and I have become really good friends - and we spend a lot of time together. We walk regularly - as well as go on little outings. Here we are going to local story time. :)

We've also started solid foods - although it's been a slow start. He wants nothing to do with rice cereal, and has had a allergic reaction to applesauce. He's proving to be sensitive - as we also had an allergic reaction to Huggies diapers. But, peas have been a BIG hit.

Other milestones that Baby Brother has figured out - he loves to blow raspberries - and it's so entertaining to watch him do so. He also has figure out how to wave hello. When the family is together and talking, that's when he starts waving and blowing his raspberries. Just putting in what he can to the family conversation! :)

Like A Brother

2009-02-05T07:00:00.000-06:00

It has been so fun to see the boys bonding with one another. Baby Brother thinks that Little One is hillarious and watches his every move. Here are some of the most current "brother" shots.When we got back from Jamaica, Baby Brother and I came down with a pretty yucky bug. And, because a Thomas the Engine sticker makes everything better, Little One was certain that sharing his stickers would make Baby Brother feel better. Here you can see three of the six stickers that were so generously shared.

The two of them sitting on a giant swing on the Jamaican beach.

Yesterday morning I awoke with Hubs telling me that I would want to see what was going on in the boys room. And this is what I found. Little One had crawled into the crib and they were snuggling. What a sweet way to begin our day! I love how they both are sucking their thumbs and snuggling their sweet lovies.

Six Months!

2009-02-04T14:12:00.006-06:00

Our sweet Baby Brother is six months old! Can I take a minute and just tell you a little bit about our little bundle?

He LOVES to cuddle and snuggle.
He is completely content lying on his back playing with whatever. He can roll over, but doesn't seem to have any desire or need to do so.
Big Brother can get him giggling like no one else can.
He is a very easy - going baby. As long as he's where the action is, he's happy as a clam.
We tried rice cereal this week - and so far, he's not a fan.
When no one is around, and the house is quiet, that's when he decides to talk it up.
I call him my joy bug - because he always cracks a smile or giggle when I need it the most.
He has wild hair - that's becoming a natural mo hawk.
He weighs 15 pounds and is in the 25%ile across the board.
He used to sleep through the night. Now he's waking up every four hours. Not too sure what to do about that...

We love you little man! Thanks for bringing so much joy into our hearts and home!

Rest.less.

2009-01-29T04:01:00.003-06:00

It is 4:00 in the morning and sleep is far from me. I feel that I am awake due to a caffeine overdose, but that's not the case. My head and heart are swirling after watching this. I DVR'D it because I don't like to watch these kind of shows during the day with the babes around. Hubs and I watched it last night, and based on my reaction, I have more healing and processing to do. All I could do was sit and cry. Old 2 year old wounds revisited, reopened. Ouch. Lord, please make the bitterness become sweet.

That is one big element to my open eyes. The other element is that both baby brother and little one are sleeping in my room - and hubs is on the couch. Why you ask? Carpet cleaning. I had had scheduled to get our carpets cleaned yesterday afternoon. This was a company I had never used - and boy am I regretful. First off, he was two hours late. I should have just stopped the madness right then and there. My gut told me to. But I had spent most of the afternoon getting ready for it. The guy took forever, and didn't leave until 8:30. On top of that, it's pretty darn cold here these days - and he had to have the front door open most of the time. So, I have two cold kids who are way past bedtime, and there is no way that we can get their room to a sleep able condition before the morning. So, I put Little One in our bed and pulled out the pack and play. Tonight is not a night I want to snuggle my toddler, I need the comfort and nearness of my sweet hubs. And he's been kicked out to the couch.

Here's the kicker. The guy did a horrible job. The floor is still sopping wet in places. It is damp,cold, smells weird and doesn't even look clean. I worry that the little ones will catch a cold. All of that madness for nothing - only to create more work. I imagine I'll be on the phone tomorrow, fighting for our money back and finding someone else to fix it.

These kind of things always seem so much worse in the wee hours of the morning. Hopefully it's not as bad as I think it is.

So, it's now 4:30. Do I try to go back to sleep - or do I just get up? I can't really do anything in much of the house - hubs sleeping on the couch and the rest of the house is soaking. Maybe I head to the gym and get some of this pent up energy out. But that makes for such a long day.

On a happy note, my mom booked a flight out here for Valentines day weekend. She is going to stay with the kids while Hubs and I have a weekend away. We've only done this once since we've been married with kids. And, I am so looking forward to it.

Well, that's it for now...

How we spent most of the day....

2009-01-22T21:33:00.007-06:00

Waiting,

And more waiting for the pool to open! And once it was opened - boy did we have fun!

Unlimited Miniature Ice Cream Cones...who could ask for more?

There was a lazy river - and didn't take Little One long to figure out how to "swim" with his life jacket on. A life jacket and swimming lessons are in our near future!

There was on site child care - which was awesome. They did a great job taking care of the kids. It was especially nice during naptime or when they had had enough sun. During the afternoon the kids went to Kids Kamp - and mom and dad were on our own. Yippee!!

Baby Brother taking in the sun.

Little One was not crazy about the beach or ocean. We spent one morning on the beach with him - and that's all we could get from him. But, we made the best out of that morning - Sand castles, swimming, and we even tried to take a giant tricycle out into the water. (Dad and Little One jumped ship and it ended up being Mom on the giant tricycle...:)

Going to Elm*o's House!

2009-01-22T08:03:00.005-06:00

The way we made it through two plane rides and one hour and a half bus ride to the resort was that we told Little One we were going to see where the big red monster lives. And, boy does he have a great house!

The resort is a sponsor of S*same S*treet and we are now really good friends with the gang. In fact, Little One is in the bath tub right now and the only toy he wanted his rubber ducky. Our conversation went like this:
"Hey Mom - can you say Hi to Ernie and his Rubber Duck?"(Referring to himself, of course)
"Hi Ernie! Hi Rubber Ducky!"
"Hi Bert! How you doin today?"

We were promised S*same S*reet - and that is exactly what we got. Parades, shows, and everyday there was an opportunity to do something with one of the characters. (Bake cookies with Cookie, Dance with Zoe, etc...) We even had breakfast with all of them, and a dance party to start the day.

So, here's a few of the monster friends we encountered...

Little One was in his element to play guitar with these guys. He had a really hard time sharing the guitar with the others... He still talks about how he could only play ONE SONG!

One of my favorite characters - Miss Abby Cadabby!

To touch her wings or not?

Cookie was full of dance moves and hugs. He was so fun to watch and interact with.
Little One had a BLAST dancing at the evening shows.

Thanks E*lmo for letting us come - we had a great time! :)

It's all in the name...

2009-01-21T08:56:00.002-06:00

At a Christmas Party there's a little girl who is playing and chasing Little One. After about 20 minutes of play she comes to me and says: "Is his name really Buzz?" (We were on a major Toy Story kick at the time.)

In Jamaica he finds a little dance partner who has some pretty great moves. The two little toddlers danced the night away. The little girl's mom went up to Little One and asked his name - and his response - "Thomas". (We're on a serious Thomas the Train kick right now...) "Oh Thomas! You are a great dancer! Look at Thomas go! Bye Thomas, we'll see you tomorrow!"

So, when there are girls to impress, you've got to be cool. He's got that one down. :)

Jamaica - ooh I wanna take ya....

2009-01-20T19:52:00.005-06:00

We're home - and we had a fabulous time! It was a week in paradise, to say the least. Here are some pics of the grounds of the resort - so beautiful! We didn't even leave the resort - there was so much to do there. Lots of time spent on the beach or poolside - resting and relaxing. Lots of time playing in the water. Lots of great quality time with Hubs and the kids. This trip was just what we needed.

There were all sorts of activities available - hobbie sailing, water skiing, snorkeling, diving - Hubs did it all! I snorkeled, but preferred sitting on the beach and reading a good book.

My reading spot. Check out these bed cabanas. If you rent them for a day, your meals and drinks are brought to you - actually anything you could need. We didn't rent one - but it's top on my list next time! :)

A room with a view... You can't really tell from the photo, but the ocean is right outside our room. This is the balcony from our room.

Little One had a grand time exploring. I love this picture because it is a perfect example of how we spent a lot of our time with him - We'd find something of interest and by the time I could pull out my camera to take pics, he was off to something else.

I took a ton of pictures - plus they had professionals walking around the grounds snapping shots - so I have about 250 pictures of our trip! Now, don't worry, I won't bore you with all of them, but will post some of the best in the coming days.

The Lack of Blog Attention Will Continue...

2009-01-09T07:11:00.000-06:00

I know, my blog posts have been few and far between. Trying to establish a new routine, trying to get back into the grove after the holiday travel, tending to a toddler with a stomach bug... leaves very little time to blog.

Yes, my sweet toddler had a stomach bug. He probably picked it up at the pediatrician office last week when we took Baby Brother in because of a green gucky nose that wouldn't let up. The antibiotics cleared up the nose in a matter of hours. No such luck for Little One. We have had five days of yuck. Today, I think we're in the clear. I know he was so hungry - yesterday he kept asking to eat meatballs. At the end of the day I finally gave in and gave him some food of substance, only to have it backfire. Darn. Today we are sticking to the good old BRAT (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce and Toast) diet.

But another thing has been keeping me busy - we are going on a family vacation on Saturday and I've been getting ready. I'm pretty excited. The whole family is going to Jamaica for a week. I CAN'T WAIT! My husband works for a very generous and awesome man, who is giving us this gift. How amazing is that? Here's the deal. We have never really been on a vacation. Sure, we've been on trips to visit family - but never a sit on the beach, do nothing but really enjoy one another, get away from every day life, kind of trip. I think it's going to be such a fun time. I'm really looking forward to getting some much needed rest and relaxation. I'm looking forward to connecting with my hubby. I'm looking forward to introducing the ocean and sand castles to Little One.

So, I can tell you the blog will be silent for a week or two - I'm going computerless - and looking forward to that too.

I'll be sure to post when we're back!

~Rebecca

Best shots of Christmas...

2009-01-06T17:33:00.006-06:00

Brother Hugs...Nana and Baby Brother....

"Oh Wow! What could it be?"

Papa and Baby Brother...

Trying to get a good shot with cousin Jullian in their Christmas Jammies...

Baby Brother flirting with Grandma...

Road Trip! Notice the new DVD player. Little One is convinced that it's his computer. Most of the way to CO we heard from the back seat: "Don't touch my computer, guys..." over and over. I think he's got the message...

Making sock puppets from this book. So much fun! Thanks Julie for the fun Christmas craft! :)

Biting off more than I can chew.

2009-01-04T05:29:00.003-06:00

Well, it's 5:30 AM on a Sunday morning. Baby brother awoke at 4:00 ready to eat. And after his early breakfast, we had a lovely chat. We're discovering that he has much to say when his big brother isn't around. When the house is quiet, that's when our Baby Brother comes alive. He coos and squeals very loudly. When Big brother is around, Baby just watches with undying attention.

Anyway, I have some thoughts regarding the holidays that have been musing in this head of mine. This holiday season was a huge learning curve for me. (Thus the silence on my blog.) This being our third Christmas as a married couple and my first Christmas as a mother of two, I feel that I have much to master in the area of traditions and celebrating. Sometimes I wish that my sweet husband and I had a little more time to establish things prior to having children. Now, I am not saying that I regret the children or anything like that. I just find it difficult to learn how to be a wife, while learning how to be a mom and establishing our home in the midst of it all. It's a lot to take in.

Which brings me to the subject of traditions. At the beginning of December I had the realization that this would be our first Christmas in Texas away from family - and that I needed to start establishing some good family traditions. Despite the fact we were going to CO for Christmas, I wanted to have our own family celebration. To begin making our own traditions. So, we scheduled to have our "family Christmas" the morning we were scheduled to leave town. BIG MISTAKE. Because, it seemed that really the only person who cared about this event was me. And in my effort to make a special holiday memory, (such as staying up until 2:00 AM to make sure everything was just right) no one else seemed to care and I completely wore myself out. After our "celebration" (complete with a husband and wife tiff) we hustled and bustled about getting ready to leave. We were driving to CO and had planned to leave town at 3:00 pm. That plan was quickly altered when I couldn't find my drivers license. I looked high and low - made many phone calls...only to find nothing. So, I took the kids to a friend's house and made my way to the DMV t0 get a new license. Thankfully, the wait was only 20 minutes - whereas I waited three hours when I went this past summer!

And after much ado and leaving an embarrassingly messy house behind, (I hate coming home to a messy house when coming home from vacation!!) we were on the road at about 8:00. On our way out of the door, I began feeling sick. And, it took us 5 hours to drive 200 miles. Ugh.

During some period during those first 200 miles, while doing a mental check list of things...it hit me. I had packed for and thought of everyone else but me. I had forgotten so many of my own things. I realized on that dark highway that it didn't even cross my mind to bring my coat (although I had been looking high and low for one for Little One all week - it's hard to find a good winter coat in a warm climate!). I left all of my jewelry in my jewelry box. Including the lovely necklace Hubs gave me that morning for Christmas. I left it on the kitchen counter. And, there are other things that I forgot, but are better left unnamed. If I would have been by myself in that moment I would have burst into tears. I was spent and had nothing to show for it.

What am I going to different next year?
I've decided that where ever we are on Christmas Day - this is where we will celebrate. Or, maybe have our own celebration after we get back. But trying to cram it all in before hand and getting ready to leave town is too much for this mamma to handle. I've decided to just let the traditions happen. To ponder the little things in my heart, and remember and build on them next year. With time, the traditions will develop. I can set the stage, but cannot force them.

And then, there is the care of me. I feel at times, so worn out and exhausted. The demands. Unrealistic and realistic. The unnecessary and necessary. Where do I go in the midst of it all? This is one thing that I am really hoping to change this year. I have discovered that I need time. I need a few hours a week - and a few days a quarter to be in silence and on my own. I want to read, learn and listen, yet find it impossible right now. I am craving routine, and am willing to do what ever to make it happen. Perhaps building some alone time into our routines will be just what I need. I am reminded of the commonly used illustration of the instructions of the flight attendant - "when the air mask drops be sure to attach your own before helping others..." I need to take the initiative to care for myself if I am going to do a good job caring for the rest of my precious family. Otherwise, I have nothing to draw from. I am giving from an empty cup - which is nothing pretty.

I have also been referred to FLYlady.net - and am finding her simple instruction very helpful. Some days (ok, most days) I just need someone to tell me what to do. I think I'm a fan.

Back to the trip. We stopped in Abilene, and my doctor called in a prescription for me. Once we got a handle on my little bout, we hit the road hard. And arrived in Colorado Springs late that evening. We had a lovely stay - we stayed at our dear friend's house while they were out of town. It was very nice to have a home away from home. During our visit I was able to visit with my friends Monica and Carrie, which was a very sweet (although too short) time. And of course, it was so good to see family. It was a good time. Later today I will post some photos of our visit.

BTW - I found my lost license last night. Guess where it was? At the bottom of the toy box...Go figure.... :)

January 1, 2009

2009-01-01T21:12:00.004-06:00

This is what we were up to today -

Loads and more loads...

Thomas, Thomas and more Thomas. Andrew, we wish you were here to play!

Bye, Bye Christmas Decor - see ya in about 330 Days!

Some genuine Bowl watching...

Daddy wasn't quite ready to get up.

Happy 2009 from our family to yours!

Christmas through the eyes of a two year old.

2008-12-14T20:56:00.003-06:00

Getting ready for Christmas has been an absolute wonder this year. Little One is so excited and really trying to get what this holiday is all about.

Here are a few snippets of conversations that have gone on in the past few weeks.

Last week we were going to a Christmas party. When we told Little One that where we were going he said: "Oh it's Jesus's birthday!" Of course, the only reason we'd go to a party would be a birthday party.

Right after Thanksgiving we were running a quick errand and it was dark. Our neighbor had an angel in his yard and Little One saw it. When he figured out that it was an angel he started singing "Joy to the World". I had never heard him sing the song - and was a little surprised. It's a moment I will forever cherish.

Today he was watching a Christmas DVD and they were singing "Away in the Manger". Little One burst into great big alligator tears. I wasn't sure why. Tonight he asked me to sing the "Baby in the manger song". I sang it and as soon as I sang "no crib for a bed" his little eyes welled up with tears. I think he has figured out that there's a baby and the baby doesn't have a bed. I'm going to have to figure out how to explain that.

And then there is the tree. As we were decorating, Hubs kept handing him ornaments and asked him to go put them on the tree. After he had gone to bed, I found a little cove in the tree that held a pile of all of the ornaments he had been given. Except for one. He came across an ornament that is plastic and looks like a upright bass. He has decided that is his guitar. He is now Murray from the Wiggles. And I had to play my "'papprayno" (piano). Forget the decorating of the Christmas tree. There was music to be played!

He loves nutcrackers. We have two amongst our decorations...and he has taken a real liking to them.

And Santa, well, "Santa is coming!"

Rebates for Huggies Diapers

2008-12-04T07:39:00.002-06:00

This web-site offers rebates for products that you buy when you are a care giver. They will give you a dollar rebate for every box of Huggies that you purchase. This includes Pull-ups and Overnites. The only requirement is that you buy at least five boxes and you mail in your original receipts.

It may seem little, but if I had a dollar for every box of diapers I've bought....

Did you know?

2008-12-03T22:21:00.002-06:00

That you can buy and sell formula and diaper coupons on E*bay? I just discovered this little bounty today - and I am so excited! So, all you expecting moms, when you get your little goody diaper bag from both Enfamil and Similac when your in the hospital - there are lots of coupons and rebates to be found. Do not toss them, make some money off of them.

Is this news to you? Or, have I just been oblivious to the obvious?

Today

2008-12-03T21:26:00.003-06:00

This morning I woke up with a major case of bed head. Little one said:"What happened to your hair? You blow it up?"

I have been selling things like crazy on e*bay. I sold two items yesterday and needed to get them to the post office, along with some other packages. I usually save my post office runs for late in the night and use the automated postage machine. But, today I just wanted to get it off my list. So, I trundled everyone to the car (it took about an hour to get us all together) and we were off. One of my problems in a public place is that Little One is a wanderer. He has no fear. So, the post office trip quickly turned into a "stay here" and "can you please be mama's helper?" and a "don't hold onto my arm!" kind of trip. Ugh. I was so frustrated. So was he. Although, I must give him credit, after a talk outside, he did listen and stay close by. We were able to finish mailing the packages and made our way to Target. As I walked out side, someone had parked his monster truck right next to my car - making it impossible to open the doors without touching his vehicle. I didn't know what to do. I had to get my kids in the car. We were on the brink of meltdown. So, I ever so gently opened the door and tried to get Little One in. Yes, my door was touching his precious truck. There was nothing else I could have done. He came storming out of the post office screaming obsenities at me. He told me that he had watched me "ram" his car and that if he was a #%"@ then he would get my insurance. I told him to go ahead - because there had been no harm done. I wasn't scared of damage. I was scared of him. Then he roared his monster truck engine and drove to the other side of the parking lot. He got out to examine his car - all the time yelling at me from across the parking lot. Brother! Thankfully, Little One was oblivious to what was going on. It certainly has given me some stuff to think about. What would I tell Little One if he did get what was going on? How could I set a Christ-like example? Because, I can tell you, that my heart is not at all very "Christ-like" at the moment. Grrr. It still makes me a little agitated. Regardless, it will be a long time before I venture out to the post office with my kids. My e*bay customers will have to wait.

We went to Target, and I was so determined to make this a quick trip. I made Little One ride in the cart - which I don't normally do. And, I think I am going to stick to my guns about this from here on out. No more running around the store. It's enough to send me over the edge. And our trip today was fast, and painless.

Target has a playdough kit on sale - and I must tell you that it's the best $6.00 I've spent in a long time. I've avoided play-dough but, it turns out that Little One loves it. It kept him busy all afternoon. He sat at his little table saying "What am I's going to make for ya?" and then I would name something and he'd whip it right up. Sometimes I was out of ideas and I'd tell him to decide. My favorite thing he made was "chocolate tea" for me. Mmmm. Sounds good! I think it's so sweet that he knows they are two of my favorite things and put them together.

We decided that we are going to drive to CO for Christmas - not fly. With that, I am trying to decide if we should put up a Christmas tree. Little One is so into it this year. And, I don't want to miss anything that he may see through his little 2 year old eyes. I suppose that in itself is worth the work of putting up the tree. I better get crackin!

Another fun giveaway...

2008-12-01T22:24:00.003-06:00

My blog friend Bee at Will Blog for Shoes is giving away something that's useful for Little Bundles...
If you have a sweet cuddly baby in your life - or if you are going to have one in the near future - you'll want to check this out.

Need some holiday dough?

2008-11-30T23:08:00.002-06:00

Here is a giveaway for a $500.00 gift card to Wal-mart! Be sure to go over and check it out!

For the Record - Food Network has become my new BFF

2008-11-30T21:39:00.003-06:00

These are the recipes that I used for my Thanksgiving meal - and all of them turned out oh so yummy...

Turkey
Whipped Sweet Potatoes with bananas and honey
Turkey Gravy
Pumpkin Pie

And today I made this to use up the leftovers - and I think it's one of the best soups I've ever made.

A whole bunch of new!

2008-11-29T10:05:00.000-06:00

Here's an update big things have gone on in all of our lives in the past week:

Little One:
He's learned how to pedal! We left him at the YMCA for a few hours last week for parent's night out, and he came home, hopped on his tricycle and said "watch this!" and he just started peddling his little heart out. He rode around and around the main floor for a good 45 minutes. And, it's a been a daily activity since.
The other big thing is that Frosty the snowman has been introduced into our family. We rented it and had to return it today - and I'm pretty sure one of us will be headed out to find the DVD in due time. I can only imagine what his response is going to be when he learns that frosty is gone. It was bad enough when Frosty melted.
And, on that note - have you watched it lately? I found myself laughing and chuckling to myself a lot this past week - all of the children are wearing shorts and mini skirts on the coldest day of the year. Karen is sure her mother won't mind if she goes to the North Pole - as long as she's back by supper. And the police man is told that he has to excuse Frosty because he just became alive. Of course! If only I had a great excuse like that. :)
So, here's a photo of the tricycle Frosty marathon that's been going on around here.

Baby Brother:
He's learned to giggle! And boy, does he have to work hard at it. So many times he has a HUGE smile and he squints his little eyes and no sound comes out. But, just this week he's figured it out, and it's just about the cutest thing I've ever heard. He also LOVES to stare at his fist. Check him out.

Daddy:
Daddy is an official Longhorn! Yes, my sweet Husband has been accepted into Texas University to finish up his undergrad. I am so proud of him. He was at senior status when we left CO - and has been working on his degree for so long! After much perseverance - he's in! Hook em Horns!

Mama:
Made and hosted her first Thanksgiving. I had so much fun. I learned a ton - and can't wait until next year. One of the biggest things I learned was that when you brine a turkey and have an option between an expensive brine bag and a cheap one - opt for the more expensive one. Because there is a chance that the cheaper one may spring a leak in the night and leak brine, and raw turkey juices all over your refrigerator and into the deli and cheese drawer, and the first and second produce drawer - soaking everything that's in the drawers. Uh huh. Ask me how I know.

But, now I have a super clean refrigerator (the bottom half anyway) and all fresh produce. No more limp celery stalks can be found in my fridge!

Despite the craziness of the leaking brine, everything came out beautifully. We had our friends the Blacks over - and so enjoyed their company. It was a lovely day.

I know I promised in my last post to post about our trip. I need to stop promising coming topics in my posts. Because, I never know when I am going to have the opportunity to blog - or if I'm going to be in the mood to blog. So, for the record, I'd like to post about our CO trip, I hope to post about it, but make no promises from here on out... :)

So, I sign off this post with a lovely fall picture my sweet friend Heather (who, by the way, is hosting a very fun giveaway. Stop by and check it out!) took while we were home. I love how she captured my little man. Thank you Friend! For all of you who live in CO Springs and need a photographer - I highly recommend her....

Just imagine a "Happy Thanksgiving!" coming from that little mouth...

Four Months

2008-11-28T23:07:00.003-06:00

I can hardly believe that four months has gone by since baby brother's birth. He is the sweetest baby. He is beyond content, yet lets me know if something isn't just right. In the past month he's taken his first airplane ride, met his Nana and Papa and Uncle Rob and Aunt Ally, along with Aunt Emily and cousin Michaela - and a host of other dear people. He is absolutely amazed by his hand. He holds his right hand up and just stares at it. Who needs a mobile? Yet, he does love the bear mobile in his bassinet, and gets so excited when he gets to visit them. He tries to roll over - and has only done so once (I think Big Brother gave a helping hand). And just this week, he figured out how to let that sweet giggle out. My sweet baby boy. I love you.

The Friendly Skies

2008-11-18T09:04:00.005-06:00

Remember this post? Well, your advise came in very handy as I traveled last week, alone, with a three month old and a toddler. Gummy bears, the plane comes down, DVD player, sitting in the back of the plane....all very helpful. In my post I had to say that we were traveling over the holidays - (which we are) but in all reality I was traveling the next week to Colorado to surprise my sister for her 30th.

All in all, the trip went really well. I put Little One in a stroller, and Baby Brother in this baby carrier. (BTW - I HIGHLY recommend this baby carrier. It's a little pricey, but so worth it.) And made my way through security. It went something like this: Take our shoes off, take the formula out of the backpack, take the computer out of the backpack, send all of our five buckets through the security scanner, take Little One out of the stroller, help a security officer fold up the stroller, walk through the security deal, put Little One back in the stroller, praise God for the stroller!, put our shoes on, put everything back in the backpack, and let them test the formula for explosives. Thank goodness that I never had to take the baby carrier off in this process!!!

Phew!

I found that all along the way there were people who were more than willing to help. I found another mom in the restroom who watched my toddler and then I watched hers. The thought did cross my mind while I was in the stall that I just left my toddler with a complete stranger in the Denver International Airport - something I thought I would NEVER do. Then there was the mom of two boys who was traveling alone and became my traveling shadow. She carried my backpack, held the baby, and communicated to other travelers my needs. I am so thankful for her and will never forget her! And there were lots of grandma and grandpa types - that immediately identified me, my situation, and our needs. When I couldn't figure out how to get the stroller unlatched I had a flight attendant drag it to the concourse and announce: "Does anyone know how to work this kind of stroller?" and within thirty seconds I had five men standing around the stroller trying to figure it out - while I chased a very excited toddler around. I don't know how or who fixed my stroller, but it was done and I was so thankful!

As for the actual time in the plane, I brought my computer to serve as a DVD player - and it worked great. After the newness of the plane wore off, this new DVD was a big hit. Little One loved it when we hit any kind of turbulence - and would giggle deep belly laughs. I have never been a fan of flying - but I will admit that sitting by a toddler who is having a ball and thinks the whole experience is "SO MUCH FUN MAMA!!" made my stress and fear of flying disappear.

I feel that the story would not be complete without a true tale of how it all ended - the last 30 minutes of the last flight - we had a complete meltdown. Yes, I was the mom with the screaming child on the plane. Each of the flight attendants came by to offer help, to no avail. Little One was very upset that he couldn't draw with the marker that he had dropped and had rolled underneath the next seat. There was no way I could get it. Holding a baby. Tight quarters. Plane landing. Tables needed to be up. Clenched uncapped markers in his hands. Marks from the markers on his face, tears making them smear. "I WANT TO DRAW!! THAT MARKER!" You get the picture.

Let me also add that from now on, I will always have an extra measure of grace and compassion when I am in a plane with an upset child.

Thankfully our meltdown happened at the time when the pressure in your ears start to change, and all of the flight attendants (and probably everyone else in the plane) thought that was our problem. Ha. Our problem was that we were high in the sky when the clock said it was nap time. Our problem was that we hadn't had lunch. Our problem was that my little man had done above and beyond what his Mama asked him to - and he was done.

But, all was well when we found Dada at the airport holding a cardboard sign that read "Family Needed" and a bouquet of flowers. Little One fell asleep the minute his bottom hit his car seat.

I so wish I had pictures to accompany this post. I do have a picture of Little One in the cockpit - which was pretty cool. But, that was the only time I had a moment to think about finding my camera and using it. I wanted to document Little One's first flight with some pictures, but these words will have to do. Maybe when we're flying with Dada next month some pictures can be snapped.

Now we are back home and getting into the routine of things. Little One is very happy to be back. Tomorrow I'll post more about the trip and all the people we got to see.

I'm back....

2008-11-16T20:28:00.003-06:00

This pretty much sums up where we've been.

More to come soon! :)

The Pumpkin Patch

2008-11-01T07:29:00.006-05:00

As planned, we headed out and were pleasantly surprised! The farm we discovered went way beyond my expectations! And, we were the only family there! Painting pumpkins, hayrides, corn mazes, goats in trees....
We'll definitely be back in the spring to pick strawberries and blackberries!

Yes, those are goats in that tree...

Boo!

2008-10-31T11:55:00.002-05:00

This is the extent of our dressing up this year - Little One wants absolutely nothing to do with it. We chose a Tyrone Backyardigans costume - it lasted maybe three minutes. Both Daddy and Mama picked out different capes so he could go as a super hero (Note to self: when picking out a cape for our sons - make sure it's one that Daddy approves of!) only to get a "No CAAAPE Mama! I fly!" And he started running around the room - obviously telling me that he doesn't need a cape to fly.

We haven't decided what to do this evening - The fact that there isn't going to be any dressing up on his part, and that he is kinda freaked out by the Holloween isle in Target, has left us with this question: What should we do on Friday night??

We've decided to head out to a farm that is about an hour away and participate in their fall activities. Daddy's getting off work early and we'll pack a picnic dinner. And hope to roll in the driveway right about the time all the trick or treating ends. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to be the generous giver of candy - but this year, I don't know that we want ghost and goblins coming to our door. It's a little too real for our little two year old.

Hopefully I'll have some fun pictures to post! Until then, I've got to get busy so we make it out the door on our little outing!

Cheers!

Traveling with a toddler

2008-10-27T22:32:00.002-05:00

For the holidays we are going to be doing some traveling by air - and I have a couple of questions and would love some input. Any tips? Any ideas on what I bring along to keep Little One busy? How about with an infant? I've never flown with children - and I am not sure what to expect. I'd love to hear what you have to say.

Things that make my job easier

2008-10-26T07:54:00.001-05:00

Zippers on baby sleepers vs snaps
Baby sacks
A new formula can design. No more digging for the scoop! Finally someone got smart!
Drive through Starbucks
Drive through anything
The Automated Postal Machine at the post office. Going to the post office after hours with a toddler is much more easier when he can run around the empty post office than waiting in a crowded line!
Chick-fil-a. I love the service when I go there, I love that I can take the toy out of Little One's kids meal and trade it in for a free ice-cream, I love that they have bendy straws, and I love that they have placemats that stick to the table. Oh, and I love that I hear Christain music playing in the back ground.
Cozi.com - I LOVE that I can form my grocery list at my laptop and then text it to my phone!
Blogs. I once read that mommy blogging is similar to the day when women would gather at the well and get their water (a household chore) and catch up. I love the encouragement, tips on how I can do things better, recipes to try, and just the simple revelation that I am not alone in this job of being a mom. Now, I'll be honest and admit that computer time is a constant source of discipline for me - It's so easy to just read that one new post off my bloglines and before I know it, a whole episode of the Wiggles is done and I haven't done what I wanted to, I've been sucked into blog land - and the TV needs to be turned off. It happens way too often.
On that note, Bloglines is a great resource and it has saved me a ton of time. Although my commenting on blogs has gone down - because it takes a little more time to leave one.
Friends.

So, what about you? What little things in your life make your job easier? And you don't just have to be a mom to answer. I'd love to know.

Look What I Found DaDa!

2008-10-23T08:02:00.004-05:00

Was he found while digging through the pile of bagged stuffed animals at Goodwill at 9:00 in the evening? Or was he found while Daddy and Mama were scouring the backyard with a flash light? Nope. While I was getting Little One dressed on Sunday morning I was looking through his closet and I heard "I found Bear!" And where was he?Lots of times when Little One gets up from his nap he likes to stand at this little window in his room and look out at "the bee-u-diful day!" And that's where our little bear hid for three whole days. We are so happy he's been found!

Pics!

2008-10-19T23:19:00.007-05:00

Find the Baby toes...

The big not-so-hungry caterpillar

His new home away from home

I'm sure you can imagine how he got here.
(Don't worry, that's an empty can of formula. Empty can of formula = a perfect drum.)

His first chocolate ice cream sandwich

I could just eat him up!

This morning was such a perfect fall morning. Everyone was sleeping - except Baby Brother. I bundled him up and I had my morning coffee outside. He didn't last too long...

LOVES the red frog that hangs from the mobile.

He found his thumb!

Oh Where Oh Where Can Our Little Bear Be?

2008-10-18T08:04:00.002-05:00

In Little One's first Easter basket from Nana and Papa, there was a little turquoise (aka turk-o-boise!) bear with satin angel wings and a heart on his tummy that said "Jesus Loves Me" and played the song if you pushed in just the right spot.

This little bear has become part of our family - he's been held and snuggled by two little hands - he's been a great companion in the cab of a Uhaul for three days, in the transition to being big brother, and just everyday life. He's been through the wash so many times that his arm was about to fall off, and the singing of Jesus Loves Me came to a halt long ago. If you were here, I can gaurantee you will hear either me or the Little One say many times a day:
"Where's your bear?"
And the answer is
"Mama go get it for You.."

We've been working on taking responsibility of bear - and that it his job to keep track of him. So a lot of times when he says "Mama go get it for you" I put the ball back in his court and have him go and get it. But, there are times, I know where bear is - and it's just faster and easier for me to go and get him. Because, here's the deal. Little One likes to hide bear. We've been on some pretty wild bear hunts around here. He's been found him in the spoke of the car tire, the fireplace, the third shelf of our pantry, and outside in various places in the backyard. I almost keep tabs on bear like I do my other two children.

Until Wednesday. Wednesday was the day when I was going through the garage, and posting things on Craigs List. I was gathering things for Goodwill - and had two big piles to go. Little One was toddling around the garage for most of the day. Exploring the garage is one of his favortie things to do. I don't recall seeing bear the whole afternoon. We were so busy.

And bear has been missing since. I am so afraid Little One put him in the trash bag that went to Goodwill - because that was what Mama was doing - putting things in the bag. I have looked high and low. This week my most often prayed prayer has been: "Lord, please help us find Bear!" Little One has prayed and asked Jesus to help us find him. Last night was the hardest night. Up through most of the night - because bear was not by his side.

As we were getting ready for bed, he was crying for bear and said with big alligator tears:
"Mama go and get him!"

How I wish I could, Little Son. I spent two hours doing google searches for bears with satin wings. I've found some that are similar, but can't decide if we should try and replace him, or if we should just let it be.

We'll see what happens. I am going to go to Goodwill to see if I might find him there.

So, how about you? Have you ever lost a favorite love and what did you do?

Sleep is a wonderful thing.

2008-10-15T22:05:00.002-05:00

I am so happy to report that sweet Baby Brother has slept through the night THREE NIGHTS in a row!

I am a happy Mama.

Other things going on around here...

I purchased a little shopping cart on Craig's List for Little One, thinking it would be a fun toy - and maybe a toy that he could play with on his own. Nope. All day long he would push the cart around the kitchen saying: "Okay Mama, Walk with me. Take my hand." Ah ha! So you do understand me when we're walking the grocery store isle! Those are the exact words that I say to him every time we're at the store. This morning the grocery cart went down the stairs, and he exclaimed: "Oh no! I lost my groceries!"

I love Craig's List, and I love Ebay. Today I posted three things on craig's list - and have already sold two of them. Right now my dining room is filled with stuff I need to sell. I love getting rid of the junk and having cash in the pocket.

I recently joined Facebook - and am totally hooked.

That's it for now. I've got some fun pictures to post - and will do so soon...

2008-10-09T21:09:00.002-05:00

Being that I have a toddler and a newborn, there's not a lot of time for any type of devotions. I'll be honest, the days when I have the option of sleep verses getting up to do a quiet time, I opt for the sleep.

This fall I have joined a Bible study for moms. Most of the moms in the group have younger children - it's a group I have really enjoyed.

This is the book we are going through - and let me tell you, it's an amazing little book. Remember I said that I don't have time for devotions. This book is perfect for this season of my life. It walks you through praying 12 weeks of specific characteristics for your children, things like kindness, humility, obedience... and each day there is one Bible verse, and one prayer - where you can insert your child's name. These days, I need a bottle of Word fed to me.

But here's the deal. This book, in all it's simplicity, is really one of the most challenging studies I have done. Each week I find that I need to do some major cleaning out of my own heart in order for my prayers to be effective for my sons. For instance, I'm praying that little One would be kind. Then, I listen to my words in the course of the day - and have caught myself with not a whole lot of kindness in my tone. How can I pray for my sons to be kind - I need to be praying that I will be kind! That's just one small example. Each week there has been this kind of revelation - and He seems to go a little deeper each week. Just focusing on one verse a day has proven to me: "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Hebrews 4:12

Anyway, I completely recommend this book for busy mamas. How about you? Have you read this book or do you have any that have helped you get through a busy season?

Baby Brother is not setting the best example...

2008-10-09T21:02:00.005-05:00

Tonight at dinner I looked at Little One and he was taking sips of milk from his sippee cup and then letting it drool out of his mouth. For one brief instant, I panicked and thought he was throwing up. Then I realized he was just spitting out his milk.
"What are you doing?"
"I burp'n Mama!"
Of course! :)

What a day!

2008-10-01T21:43:00.004-05:00

Some days I wonder how in the world I can feel so many emotions. Today was one of those days. I started out by taking the boys to the park. It was a beautiful day - and we had a really nice walk. I even met a new mom - (three week old baby) and she walked all the way home with me because we had so much to talk about. This is a huge deal for me - because I have yet to find a good friend here in TX. It was absolutely a divine appointment. We are going to walk together a few times a week. I am thrilled and so very thankful. My new friend put me in the best mood. I had such a light feeling of optimism all morning.

Last night we were at Target and I picked up some harvest colored sprinkles for decorating sugar cookies. I had planned on making the cookies for my Mom's group that meets tomorrow. Making sugar cookies for the appropriate season is one of my favorite things to do. I have the cutest fall cookie cutters. I couldn't wait. I hadn't done these in the longest time. During nap time, I got busy in the kitchen and made bread, cinnamon rolls, and the dough for my sugar cookies. I even downloaded a new CD on my iPod. My kitchen was a happy place to be.

Then, Little One got up from his nap. I wasn't ready to be done in the kitchen, and he had no interest in "helping" me. So, I turned on a show for him to watch so I could try and get most of the cookies cut out, and then I was going to finish them tonight. Big mistake. I should have just thrown the dough in the fridge. I am so frustrated with myself because I bite off way more than I can chew - especially with a newborn. I somehow forget that I am going to need to stop what ever I am doing and feed the little guy. Why can't I remember that before I start a project? I'm not sure.

Anyway, the show ended, and Little One needed direction, and was toddling about the kitchen...begging for my attention. I just wanted to finish up the cookies. He grabbed my 5 cup pyrex measuring cup off the counter. I told him to put it back and turned my back. The next thing I knew, I was watching the measuring cup slip from his hands and land on the floor. I remember praying that it wouldn't break. Ha. It hit the floor and shattered . Glass covered the counter tops and even scattered into the next room. I had to toss out the bread, cinnamon rolls, and cookies, because there were shards of glass on them. GRRRR. I was so mad. I was upset because he had not obeyed. I was upset because all the time I had spent cooking was now a waste. I was upset because I used that pyrex dish all the time. I was upset because I had nothing to take for snacks tomorrow at the mom's group. And, there was a huge mess to clean up - while managing a scared and defiant toddler and a fussy newborn. (I write in past-tense, but really I'm not over it all yet)

I am not happy to admit the emotional state of our home after this. What happened to that light, optimistic feeling? Gone. I was really upset, Little One kept on the disobedient path, I was nervous about all the glass and keeping Little One out of it, Baby Brother could feel the tention and wouldn't nurse and just screamed. I wanted to scream "Calgon Take Me Away!" Lots of times it is so hard for me to regroup and pull us all together when something like this happens. It seems to snowball and I get more and more frustrated. Thankfully, Hubs was on his way home - he stopped and got us dinner and we all ate in the dining room. After dinner, we went on a walk and then Little One went straight to bed. The kitchen remains a hazard area - which I better go tend to. But first, I think I may have that Calgon moment.

As I reread what I wrote, I've decided that I am going to focus on the good part of my day. Finding a friend is something I have been praying for since I moved here. I've been asking God to open a door of friendship somewhere. And he has! Plus, I have my mom's group tomorrow, which is brimming with friendship possibility. So, there's a disaster in my kitchen. So, I take a grocery store bought coffee cake for snacks. All of that won't matter next week. But a good friend - that has the potential to last forever.

****Now that the mess is mostly cleaned up, I must add that I am so thankful that no one was hurt! I found glass the size of a nickel in the back corners of my counter tops. Glass was flying! Either Little One or I could have really been injured, thank you God for your protection!

Move over Miderman boots...

2008-09-28T23:40:00.006-05:00

We have decided to tackle the boxes of stuff we brought from CO and haven't opened yet. Our garage has about 10 plastic storage boxes that we have not touched since the move. We've decided that it's time for most of it to go. So, next week, I'm having a garage sale.

In the course of going through boxes we found a pair of ski boots. They were Hubs ski boots from the 80's. Now how these made it onto the U-Haul in CO Springs, I am not sure. We chuckled about the blue and purple coloring - and how Hubs was most certainly the hottest man on the slope at the time. Then, they were tossed into the garage sale pile. Little One spotted them and insisted trying them on.
It was so hillarious! He stood there for a good 15 minutes - trying to figure out how they could "skate". We did our best to explain that you had to be up high on a snowy mountain in order for them to work. Once he was done with the boots, he ran up and down the driveway - telling us that he was skating down the snowy mountain. Aunt Ally, I think you've got a nephew whose going to love hanging with you in the winter... :)

Two Months!

2008-09-28T23:02:00.009-05:00

Two months already? Where does the time go?

Here's a little bit about Baby Brother...

My blog friend Jenny sent the onsie he is wearing - and it cracks us up because if he could talk, that's exactly what he would say! He's my little need structure and routine baby. The rest of us, not so much. I've been asking God to help me become more scheduled and routine for much of my life. I never thought he'd do it through a two month old baby...
He has two favorite spots - he likes to sit in his bouncy chair on the kitchen table and look out the window. He also loves his bassinet - not for sleeping, but for watching the bear mobile.

We love you Baby Brother and the joy you've brought to our family!

Tender Heart

2008-09-27T23:33:00.005-05:00

This evening we went out to dinner. As we were sitting there, Little One's eyes got super huge and I could see fear and panic on his face. He then says in a defensive voice, "Baby Brother!" and points. There is a couple walking out of the restaurant with a baby carrier. Bless his little heart - he thought they were leaving with his baby brother. The idea that there is more than one baby and baby carrier in this world is so surprising to him. The other day at Bible study when he saw the three additional baby carriers in the front room he proclaimed: "So many baby brothers!!".

A couple of days ago we were in Target, and he saw a Christmas display. He wanted to go see it - and in order to do that we had to walk through the Halloween isle. We walked by a tall figurine that looked like the grim reaper. Little One stopped in his tracks and said "Mama - Santa scarried me!" And now, he is convinced that the Grim Reaper is Santa, and that he is very scary. Oh dear.

And today, he was on a hug kick. I was chopping up pineapple, Hubs was trying to fix the grill. Little One just started hugging. "Hug Mama! Hug Dada! Hug Baby Brother!" Running back and forth, giving lots of hugs. And they were genuine sweet hugs. While hugging he'd say "oh, so sweet..." Then, he says: "Watch this Mama! I hug tree!" and he ran out the back door, hugged a tree, and came running back in. The tree got lots of good tree huggin lovin tonight...and I had to smile.

I love these moments of sheer innocent sweetness. I have to be careful, because I find that I can steamroll right pass them because of how driven I am to get things done. Everyday I find myself asking God to give me sensitive ears to his little voice. Little One is discovering the world, and I want to take it all in with him. It's these sweet things I want to remember down the road, rather than how clean my house was while he was growing up.

Give me a tender heart, just like my son's Dear Lord...

Where I've been...

2008-09-26T22:32:00.004-05:00

I have a toddler that has discovered that doors and drawers open - and OH! there are so many fun treasures behind all of these doors! So, I've had lots of days of this: (yes, that's my kitchen counter he's standing on...)

And this: ("Look Mama! I reachin it!")

But not a whole lot of this:Yes, the Miderman boots are back with a vengeance. I know I said they were too small. They are. That won't stop him! He wore them for two days straight (bed time and all.) When they finally came off, I hid them again. (I'm still not sure how they resurfaced a second time..) I have never smelled such a stinky pair of toddler shoes!

Little One is seriously into taking everything out of drawers and showing it to me and talking about it. I've been picking up mess after toddler mess. I thought we already went through this stage. I guess not. He wants to open the refrigerator door and stand there and describe all of the food he sees. While hubs and I were eating dinner, he was in the pantry, taking every spice bottle off the shelf and bringing it to us. "Watch this Mama!" "This one for you, Dada!" Oh! I have spicey in my shoe!" Was the jest of our dinner conversation.

Today I thought I'd venture out into the real world. I took the boys to the YMCA childcare - and I went and worked out. Afterwords, I ventured to the grocery store. We were not in there 10 minutes and the whole deal went way south. What was I thinking? By the end, he threw the biggest tantrum ever in the grocery store parking lot (more to come on that one), took a nap at 5:00 because of the tantrum, and now is WIDE awake in his room. It's 11:15 p.m. And he is telling his bears and books to go to sleep. I was just sitting in there with him, and was nodding off. My only hope is that this will mean he'll sleep in??? We'll get better at the whole venturing out - but right now it's pretty crazy, and I'm not sure I like it.

Anyway, I've been super busy with my little men. Little One is keeping me way on my toes - in between feedings and diaper changes of Baby. Oh well. Such a sweet season. I know someday I'll look back and miss this craziness with all my heart.

Better go try and get him to find some sweet sleep...

Have a great weekend!

Rebecca

Muffins!

2008-09-23T11:34:00.002-05:00

This week I have tried two different muffin recipes that were so delicious! One was super packed full of calories, the other was super packed full of good for you goodness.

The first was this recipe from Paula Deen. Of course, it's loaded with butter and sugar... but it the apples, raisins, and spices make for a perfect fall recipe.

The second is Banana Oatmeal Muffins. It's the perfect recipe to use those frozen bananas in your freezer...

Banana Oatmeal Muffins

Preheat oven to 375

Using a whisk attachment beat 3 bananas

Add:
3/4 cup maple syrup
1 egg
1 cup raisins (golden are wonderful)

Mix together:
1 tsp baking soda
2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
2 tsp cinnamon
1 cup rolled oats

Add to wet ingredients. Mix only until moistened. Fill greased muffin tins 2/3 full.
Bake at 375 for 15-20 minutes.

These turned out so yummy - and were so easy! Little One loves them, and I love that the recipe calls for no white sugar.

Enjoy!

2008-09-10T21:11:00.006-05:00

One thing that has really surprised me is how different Baby Brother and Little One are as infants. On our first visit to the pediatrician, she recommended that I read Secrets of the Baby Whisperer and Happiest Baby on the Block. I checked Secrets of the Baby Whisperer out from the library - and I am devouring it! It is such a helpful book. The author claims that there are four baby types - and she gives a little quiz that helps you determine what kind of baby you have. Little One was a text book baby - Baby Brother, he's a touchy baby - meaning I have had to deal with him in completely different ways than I did with Little One. This book has seriously been my life saver. I also like it because she describes how an infant communicates through cries and body language. And, she is so right on! It's been so helpful, as I can watch Baby Brother's arms and legs and listen to his cry, and I've been able figure him out!

One more thing - I like it because it gives a good middle of the road approach to scheduling. She not extreme on either side - and I really appreciate it.

It's and easy and down to earth read - and I highly recommend it! She has also written a book about toddlers - and I'm anxious to get my hands on that one too....I'll take all the help I can get! :)

It's beginning to look a lot like....

2008-09-10T21:01:00.002-05:00

Things happen around here when I'm changing Baby Brother's diaper.

Tonight I was changing him and Little One comes in and says:
" Mama! I made Christmas!"

What could that be?

I go to check it out - came around the corner into the kitchen and he's sitting on the floor of the pantry licking his fingers. He had pulled my plastic sugar container off the shelf, dropped it, resulting in a huge pile of sugar on the floor. I think he thought it looked like snow. Yes, Son, you made Christmas. White, sugar, yumminess...it's all Christmas.

Never mind the fact that I spent nap time today mopping the floor.... Oh well.

" I dumped da bath Mama!"

2008-09-07T21:19:00.004-05:00

While I was changing Baby Brother, Little One came running into the room.
"I dumped da the bathtub mama! Come see!"
Upon walking into the bathroom this is what I found:

(A reenactment :)

The biggest bubble bath EVER!

Baby Brother's take on the whole deal - A big yawn - Big Btother keeps us very busy! Mama couldn't agree more. :)

Six Weeks

2008-09-07T21:03:00.004-05:00

Here's some pictures of our little guy. He'll be six weeks old tomorrow!

The closest we've come to a smile.

Just Chillin

My Burrito Boy

This is the face we get if he's not burritoed. He's pretty picky about that.

Up Up and Away!

2008-09-04T13:37:00.005-05:00

I have a million things to do. The last thing I should be doing is blogging. Clothes to fold and put away, dishwasher to load and fill again, toys to pick up, thank you notes to write, birth announcements to send, papers to file, bills to pay, grocery list to make, blah blah blah ... today is one of those days when I look around and have no idea where to start. It all needs to be done! Yet, I need to take a break.

Yesterday was my birthday. It turned out to be a good day - although it started out kinda blah...I was pretty homesick. I just wanted a good old friend to come and take me to lunch. But, then I got lots of phone calls - and a beautiful, GIGANTIC Peace Lilly delivered to my door - a birthday treat from my MIL. The plant had a mylar balloon attached - which kept Little One busy for most of the afternoon - that in itself is a great gift!

The plan was that after Little One was asleep Hubs would run and get some Mexican food for dinner. He works just up the street from the Cheesecake Factory, and I had asked for a slice of White Chocolate Raspberry Truffle cheesecake for my "birthday cake" so he brought that home too. We had a great evening - we watched Funny Face - I love Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn!(taking a break to watch Sarah Palin's speech - Whom I also love!) He gave me a wonderful foot massage - and then I asked for my cheesecake. He responded "You can have your cheesecake, but I have another dessert for you to choose from."

He then got up and presented me with a little pink cake box and a card.

Now is a good time for some history. In Colorado Springs there is a hot air balloon festival every labor day weekend. And, it's my birthday tradition to go. It's one of my absolute favorite things to do. I love getting up early in the morning, stopping at *Starbux* on the way, and watching the sun and the balloons rise against the Rocky Mountains. You can always feel fall in the air - and it's so delightful. Here's some pictures from last year...

Now, back to last night. I opened the card and it had a bunch of animals holding a bouquet of balloons on it - with a piece of folded paper inside. My Sweetie wrote - "you missed them this year, sooo.... we're bringing them to you! Love, the Boys." I unfolded the paper and it was a print out of this.

My Sweetie wants to take me on a balloon ride for my birthday! Now, I am pretty excited - but I am a little nervous too. When I was in Jr High I won a hot air balloon ride through a yearbook competition, but I gave it to my Dad for Father's Day - because I was too scared to go. But, this will be a lot of fun, and a great memory, and with my Hubby by my side, I'll be able to do it. It's pretty romantic and I'm really looking forward to it. We don't have a date for our ride - but I'll be sure to post about it when it happens.

The cake box - it was a sweet little cake decorated with a hot air balloon. He had it special ordered - how cute is that? We are going to cut that cake tonight with Little One so we can have a birthday party. This morning he stood at the top of the stairs and said "Mama's Birthday Today!" (Which it will probably be mama's birthday until it's Daddy's birthday in 22 days... :-)

I'll post pictures of the cake and birthday party tomorrow. :)

Break time is up - here I go....

100th post = 100 things about me!

2008-08-30T14:45:00.001-05:00

I love to see Little One's tan line -there is something oh so cute about a white toddler bum against a tan back
It took me eight years to get my English degree
My favorite candy is peanut M & M's
I love putting puzzles together - especially around Christmas and Thanksgiving
I love balancing our bank account with our Quicken software. It's something I do everyday
It hasn't always been that way - until we went through Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University, I never balanced my check book
I have a habit of leaving cupboard doors open - it drives a lot of people crazy - myself included.
I was 29 when I got married
We dated for three years
I was 30 when I had our first son
We got pregnant on our honeymoon
My sister and I lived together in a very cool downtown apartment before either one of us got married. It was a fabulous period in my life.
I love post it notes and sharpies. Actually, any kind of new office or school supply make me happy. But the big bright package of multi-colored sharpies calls my name every time I'm in the school supply isle
I am a major introvert
My eldest son is a major extrovert
I have spent nine months attending a Bible college called Capernwray in England
During that time I spent 3 weeks in Kenya
And one month in Germany
I've only lived in two states - Colorado and Texas
In the summer I love to drink iced chai
In the winter I love to drink warm chai
I have an on and off relationship with coffee. I drank it in high school, decided that I didn't like it in college - and drank tea until this last pregnancy. I then craved coffee like crazy - and now have a cup a day (with lots of cream and sugar)
I love to give gifts
And wrap them
I love to buy gifts at Anthropologie
Daisies are my favorite flowers
I can not keep plants alive
I LOVE to get fun snail mail
I have watched more episodes of Blues Clues and The Wiggles than I care to count
Fall is my favorite season
I really enjoy living in Texas
I really miss my friends and family in CO
I really wish that I were a better photographer
I really wish that I scrap booked. It's been a forever wish, I have yet to do anything about it
I never thought I'd be excited about a new season of Sesame Street
It took me a good year to start blogging
I am the oldest child in my family - followed by a younger sister of three years and a younger brother of 10
I'm not sure I can come up with 63 more things about me
I love to spend time in pools and in the water - but don't really know how to swim
I hope to change that by next summer
I am a huge fan of Craig's List - and have found some real treasures from the site - Including a Nanny job for myself a couple of years ago - and a WONDERFUL nanny for us while Baby Brother was born!
I like to buy and sell things on Ebay
I have a mill and grind wheat to make our flour - and make fresh bread almost weekly
In fact, that is what I should be doing now instead of making this silly list!
I am a very vivid dreamer - and can recall most of my dreams in the AM
Right now my favorite CD is Alive Forever by Travis Cottrell
My first car was a 1989 Yellow Cavillier. I loved that car! It had a sun roof and we called it the sunshine mobile
I have been in three auto accidents - all of them very minor
I once left my emergency brake off at my parent's house - and my car rolled down a hill and hit a tree, and barely missed hitting the neighbors car. Brother! I still can't believe that one.
I hate driving in snow
I love being snowed in!
When I was single I thought I didn't ever want to have children
Now I can't imagine it any other way!
Did I mention I like to cook? If so, it's worth repeating
I love a bubble bath
I whole heartedly believe in miracles
One of the ways my husband spoils me is by giving me a monthly facial
I am a baseball fan
However, I don't have a favorite team. I tend to change teams every season.
Last year my hubby and I were able to go to all of the Rockies home playoff games. We tried desperately to get World Series tickets - but didn't. That's something I'll never forget.
I am sad that I'll never get to go to the original Yankee Stadium
I like pink baseball hats
I understand nothing about Fantasy Football
I understood nothing about real football until I married my hubby. Then that changed.
I am debating about revealing my family's real names on the blog
I love Target
I love to buy new sponges and cleaning supplies
I hate cleaning bathrooms
I would love to sew - but don't, and probably never will
I once tried to learn how to knit, but wound up getting really upset, crying and leaving the knitting party. Now, I was in high school, so I think there were some other things going on - but I haven't tried since.
The most fun job I've had was working as a receptionist at a hair salon
My baby is a big grunter. Today we went to Bible Study and he grrrrrrrddd most of the time. He's doing that now, which means I need to change his diaper and feed him.
I went to a private school from preschool - 12th grade
There were 19 students in my graduating class
I really wanted to go to Covenant College - but ended up a Colorado University. It's all good
I was a cheerleader in Jr High. I hated it
I really wish that I went out for basketball in highschool. But, I was way lacking in the self confidence arena. Don't ask about how that works with the cheerleading.
I buy myself a spiced pumpkin yankee candle every fall
I don't get the buzz about Twitter - and can't imagine doing it these days. However, I do think I could totally get into it if I were still working in an office environment...
I love Shutterfly
I've worn glasses/contacts since I was 16 months
My dad has been a Walgreens pharmacist for 30+ years
My mom drove a MK Pink Cadillac when I was in 3rd grade. She worked hard for that car!
During that time I wore a little pink t-shirt that said "Ask my mom about Mary Kay." and I wore it with pride.
I think I would like to write children's books someday
I was a preschool teacher for a couple of years
I don't think I have a favorite movie. There are a ton that I love and that I would have to claim as a favorite - I can't really narrow it down to one favorite.
I'm a total chick-flick lover
I'm a big crier
I wish that I had an older woman as a mentor. I'm praying for that.
I haven't been to church all summer
That's a story for a whole other post
Today Baby Brother's birth announcements came - I am so excited. I didn't send them out when Little One was born, and I totally regret it.
I used to ski. Then I had a ski accident - and now haven't skied in years.
I know my husband would like for me to give skiing another try.
I do love staying in the lodge cuddled up by the fire
I went to Aruba once and LOVED it. I totally want to go back with my Hubby.
Are you still reading this? It seems that I've been working on it forever.
I am fond of basement apartments
My son is grunting again - time to eat again! (Two days after the first grunting I described...)

Phew, I'm glad that's done! Now I can continue on with other posts. I've thought for a long time that I wanted to do this for my 100th post - but who knew it would fall right after I had a baby? It took me all week to get this list together. My computer time is so limited these days. So is my sleep. And, when I have to chose between the two, I'm opting for some shut-eye. In fact, that's where I'm headed right now.

Sesame Street and Burp Cloths - bare necessities around here!

2008-08-18T13:43:00.007-05:00

I actually wrote this on Monday ~ and am just now able to sit down and upload pictures! Better late than never.....

Today is the first day that we are on our own. But, not really - because Hubs decided that he would come home for lunch and watch the boys while I went to the doctor - giving me a nice little break. Thank you Honey! Making tomorrow the official "mommy on her own day" - and Hubs works late - so a long day it will be.

Baby Brother is a little cuddlebug! Forget "Back to Sleep"! He sleeps best when he is in someone arms - on his stomach. He has to have two layers of clothing, swaddled, and then a heavy blanket over him. He prefers to sleep on his side propped up by a pillow - and when he is in his swing the only way to settle him is to put a burp cloth over his head. Don't worry, I don't sleep when he's sleeping these ways - that's how I know that he likes them. At night, I put him "back to sleep" with only being swaddled - and he fusses and hems and haws. And no one gets any rest. Tonight I think we are going to try letting him sleep in the swing (minus burp cloth) and see if it helps any.

Little One is adjusting to being Big Brother very well. Yesterday we discovered that his "miderman boots" are too small. It was very tragic. In order to make things better, Daddy suggested that he wear them on his hands as gloves. Now he runs around with the boots on his hands and pretends to box the refrigerator, couch, kitchen island, etc. All the while saying "I's hittin stuff Mama!" How is it that boys are such boys?! He's never seen a boxing match, yet the impulse to defend and fight came so naturally. Baby Brother took a few knocks to the head yesterday with the miderman boots gloves. Little One didn't do it on purpose and Baby Brother didn't get hurt, but he let us know that he didn't like it!

Little One also LOVES for Baby Brother to do the things he does. This morning Baby Brother was introduced to Sesame Street. Doesn't Baby Brother looked so entertained?

And here, Little One is helping Baby Bro find all of his toys. What a great helper!

So, now that it's the end of the week, I'm happy to report that we made it! We have even gotten a little more sleep at night - thanks to the bouncy chair. I know, I shouldn't use sleep "props" but whatever works I'm going with these days! :) I have a few more posts written in my head, but I make no promises as to when they'll actually be posted. I have a feeling my posting will be pretty random in the coming couple of weeks.

Three years = Three Men

2008-08-13T07:21:00.002-05:00

July 28, 2008
June 4, 2006

August 13, 2005

Happy 3rd Anniversary My Love!

I said I liked the hospital, but not THAT much....

2008-08-12T16:32:00.002-05:00

This past weekend was a little bit wild. On Friday I went to my one week post pregnancy check up. The nurse took my blood pressure and with a frown said : "hmmm....your blood pressure is a little high..."

I had completely normal blood pressure throughout the whole pregnancy.

I kinda wrote it off - Hubs and I had had the kind of morning where we were both a little annoyed with one another, Little One was not being himself and winning like crazy, we were concerned about Baby Brother's circumcision, and I had lost my wallet a few days earlier - and couldn't find it anywhere. Of course my blood pressure was high!

The doctor comes in, toting the blood pressure cart. She checks my blood pressure two more times. And two more times it is high. She then discusses with me all of the symptoms of post partum preeclampsia. Headaches, seeing spots, high blood pressure, aches in your side...ok, got it. She then instructed me to monitor my blood pressure at CVS throughout the weekend, and if it was higher than 139 over 40 - to call her.

I went Saturday morning with Little One - and it was next to impossible for me to sit still for the test while my toddler was exploring CVS. I had to take the test multiple times, only to get a reading of 144 over 58. I decided that my blood pressure was elevated due to the toddler factor, and decided I would come back later and get a more accurate reading.

On my way home, I began seeing spots. Great.

I returned to CVS that evening - and my blood pressure was 158 over 90. Not good. Especially because things had been resolved between Hubs and I, I had no toddler with me, BB circumcision was just fine, and I had found my wallet. So, I gave my doctor a call - and she told me to go to the ER and tell them that I just gave birth and have really high blood pressure - and they'd know what to do from there.

At the ER my blood pressure was 181 over 101. Really not good. And, come to think of it, I had had two or three fierce headaches that week, and my ankles had been very swollen. hmmm...
After monitoring me, they decided that I needed to be admitted! What? I couldn't really believe it. I guess I was in danger of having seizures and who wants that? I was admitted to the labor and delivery floor - and they gave me a 24 hour dose of magnesium sulfate. That stuff is HORRID. I suddenly felt like I had been hit by a truck - and that I had the worse case of flu ever. I can't imagine having that stuff given to me while pregnant and then giving birth. (I guess that's what they do for pre-labor preeclamsia.) But, once I had the magnesium sulfate, I have a very slim chance of having a seizure and my blood pressure went way down. After they took me off the MS - I was feeing completely normal within a few hours. Wild! I was released yesterday, and feeling fine (although a little tired) today.

Thankfully, my MIL had flown in on Saturday for a visit. She was here for no less than one hour when we announced that we had to go to the hospital. "Are you joking?" she asked so sweetly. I am so thankful that she's here. I brought Baby Brother with me to the hospital, but when we arrived, there was a lady throwing up, and another moaning miserably - and I just couldn't stand to expose him to all of the germs. I told Hubs to take him right back home.

When I found out that we would be in the Labor and Delivery ward, I was hopeful that Baby Brother could come and be with me during my stay. But, the nurse discouraged it - and she was so right. There was no way I could have cared for him being under the Mag Sulfate. So, I just pumped and sent my milk home to feed our little guy. It was so hard being away from him for so long!

So, that's the story of my weekend. It was so random and unexpected - I still can't believe we went through that. I really have so much to be thankful for. The timing of my MIL's visit, modern day preventative medicine, and that I have an attentive and detailed oriented doctor.

God is good, all the time - and all the time, God is good.

Happy Birth Day! July 28, 2008

2008-08-07T08:53:00.001-05:00

*****Long Post Ahead!*****

Mama's Arms

Watching Daddy Change B B's Diaper

Hi! Baby Brother!

Mama's Boys

Welcome Home!

Our scheduled date for the C-section was 5:00 AM on Monday, July 28th - exactly 39 weeks. I had had exactly 0 contractions or any signs of going into labor - and really, I am so thankful that we did things as we did.

The night before I had planned on doing last minute preparations - you know, like packing the hospital bag, picking up the house, and wiping down the bathrooms. I admit that I am a total procrastinator. I knew what needed to be packed, and I knew that if I forgot anything, Hubs could go and get it for me. The hospital is only 10 minutes from our home, and I knew he'd be home to see Little One anyway. So, I wasn't that worried about unpacked hospital bags.

Well, Little One could totally feel the anticipation - and did not go to bed until 11:00! That's what I get for being a procrastinator! The hospital bags got packed, but nothing else was done. Oh well. They still sit undone - but that's okay. I also admit that I wasn't very stern with the whole bed time routine the night before - because I was still really sad that this was our last night together as the three of us. I just kept thinking "oh, this is the last time..." silly, I know, but it's true. I wanted to cherish every single moment - and all the other things could wait.

We left for the hospital in the wee hours of the morning - and were checked in and in the surgery prep room by 5:30. It was so weird that it was so anti-climatic. No contractions, joking with the ER techs, walking up to my room - and to think we held our baby within the next two hours! Weird! After I got my lovely hospital gown on, and they got my IV started, I signed a bunch of papers warning us of all of the complications that could happen with the surgery - geesh - that was not the most comforting thing at all! It was then when I started to second guess myself and our decision to have a C-section - and then I started to think about Little One and I missed him to the bottom of my toes. I so wanted him to be near - as this was a huge family time - and he is so family. I think too, I was a little freaked out by all the papers I had signed and was a little fearful that something might happen to me. So, a good cry helped.

Then, my wonderful doctor came in. Then the wonderful anesthesiologist. All made me feel that it was going to be just fine. At 7:00 I drank the worst shot of medicine - and walked into the operating room. That was the hardest part - as I had to go alone until the spinal was done and then Hubs could come in. It seemed so surreal. I don't remember much about Little One's C-section - as it was emergency and everything was going so fast. But, with this one I could take in every detail. I walked into a sterile, cold room - and nurses and doctors flitting around, getting everything ready. I had conversations with two nurses. I made it through the spinal. They put the blue sheet up. I waited for Hubs to come in.

He came in. He held my hand. The doctor poked a prodded - while waves of nausea washed over me. Hubs and I talked about the baby's name. We had two different names picked out, and had decided that we would name the baby once we saw him. And, then, at 7:40 the doctor tells me that she sees his head - and with a push against my diaphragm - he was out! He started crying immediately - and so did I. My doctor held him up over the blue sheet so we could see him- and then he was taken to the other side of the room - where I could see every thing that was going on with him. Hubs was with him, and then brought him over to me. We decided on the name, and then they were off to the nursery.

Once in the recovery room, I had a great nurse named Molly - who took such good care of me. Actually, every nurse I had was STELLAR. Nurses are really such wonderful angels. Shortly after, Hubs brought Baby Brother to me, and he began nursing immediately! Joy! Joy! Joy! This was such an issue with Little One - but not this time around! I am so grateful.

Little One came and visited every afternoon. Every time he wanted to crawl up into the bed with me and snuggle. Once he met Baby Brother, he said "so sweet" and "snuggle". He then wanted to bring things to Baby Brother that he thought he might need, a pillow, Little One's "Moo" (his security blanket), the phone... It was super sweet.

We were there until Thursday morning. I am thankful for the extended stay - as it really was restful. The hospital is a new hospital, and they were excited because exactly 31 babies were born in the month of July. Which, means that we got great care, in a brand new hospital. There was no rush to get me out the door, and all of the nurses had time. They had a relatively small nursing staff, so we got to know most of the labor and delivery nurses as well as the nursery nurses. To say the least, we were spoiled.

There's a little recap of our sweet second son's birth. I thank God for such a redeeming experience. There was so much trauma with Little One - and through this birthing process there has been so much healing. That could be a whole other two or three posts. Maybe someday I'll go there on this blog - I'm not sure. I do know that I can see the faithful hand of the Father every where I look - and for that I am eternally grateful.

Welcome to our World Baby Brother. We Love You So!

Round Two

2008-08-05T20:55:00.003-05:00

Today was a particularly rough day. Not with the newborn - but with the toddler. Somehow dealing with all of the new-born issues is a walk in the park compared with dealing with the toddler whose world has completely gone haywire. I remember stressing about everything with Little One when he was just a week old. Should the umbilical chord look like that? Has he been sleeping too long? How in the world was I going to function on sleeping for only three hours at a time? Ha. That's all old hat. Tonight I tried to feed Baby Brother formula - just because I have a splitting headache - and he is in the mode of "I just can't get enough mom". He refused the formula. Oh well. Anyway, I stressed a bunch when it came down to feeding Little One formula. Tonight it was a five second decision.

Little One is having a hard time with all of this change going on around here. All of the sudden every answer to every question is "NO!" and he does very little of what we ask him to do. There seems to be a little of a power struggle going on here. I am frustrated because he is not normally like this, I am running on very little sleep, and recovering from major surgery. My patience is running thin! He's frustrated because this sweet Baby Brother is not going away, and oh, he takes a lot of mom and dad's time. Tonight at bed time I laid down with Little One and he could not stop talking. "What's that?" and "Sing song". Keeping me there and putting off sleep as long as possible. It's like he was drinking in my presence. Okay, I need to change the subject because I am in a pool of hormonal tears....

I seriously wanted to down load every discipline/child raising book that's on my reading list onto my ipod tonight. I now feel like I felt when he was a brand new baby - What do I do? How do I handle this? I so want to do it right, and I so want to be sensitive to what's going on in his mind and heart. But the attitude, the whining, and resistance - it's really not okay.

So, does anyone out there have any suggestions or stories about their oldest and the transition to a new sibling? I'd love to hear what you have to say.

Baby Pics

2008-08-04T09:43:00.002-05:00

Baby Brother LOVES to be swaddled

Brothers checking each other out

Love those toes!

Oh Baby!!

2008-08-01T12:05:00.003-05:00

"Baby Brother Here!" Are words that Little One has been saying alot. We are home, had a longer stay at the hospital than anticipated, but I welcomed the rest. Everything went really well - and now we are all home!

I really need to go and rest while both boys are sleeping - but I just wanted to check in with you all. More pictures and stories will be coming soon!

Love,
Rebecca

Surprise!

2008-07-29T15:30:00.002-05:00

Baby brother is here and doing wonderfully well.

Born July 28th, 7:41am
7lbs, 9oz
18inches

Pictures soon to follow, stay tuned.

Catch Phrases

2008-07-25T14:11:00.004-05:00

Little One has started using these phrases in his everyday talk. I have no idea where he picked them up. ;)

"Mama tired."
"Sit down fora minute."
"Doin good Mama?"
"How's that for ya?"
"Most agot - purse! Go get it!" (aka - almost forgot my purse! I'll be right back while I go get it.)

38 Weeks!

2008-07-24T22:12:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, at my last (so weird and wonderful to say) OB appointment I measured at exactly 39 weeks. But, there has been no activity indicating that a baby is on it's way down. In fact, I had more contractions last month than I have had this week. This week I've had none, zilch, zero. It's all very reminiscent of the last weeks before Little One came. Which, makes me thankful that we went ahead and scheduled the C-section. And, I'm happy to report that the scheduled date is less than a week away! I'm not going to tell the exact date, because I think some element of surprise is not a bad thing. So, keep tuning in...we will for sure have a baby to hold and pictures to post by this time next week!

Happy Heels

2008-07-23T22:56:00.004-05:00

Okay, I have to tell you about this wonderful little product. I have always had a problem with cracked summer time heels. This summer they are worse than they have ever been! So, about a month ago, I went on a search at my local Walgreens to see what I could find to treat my aching, dry heels. While standing in the medicine isle looking at all the Doctor Scholls treatments, a helpful employee asked what I was looking for. She then directed me to the cosmetic side of the store to these little gems. And, they work wonders! They didn't cost much, and they are washable too. I like them because I can still get the moisture treatment without wearing socks every night. There's no way on earth I'm sleeping with a pair of socks on this summer!

I've used a variety of lotions with my wraps - but the best has proven to be lanolin. You know, the lifesaver of new breastfeeding mommas? That's right - it works wonders on dry cracked heels combined with my hot new heel wraps. Bye Bye dry heels! :)

Costly Mommy Mush

2008-07-23T21:49:00.003-05:00

In the past week I have:

Lost a Babies R Us gift card.
Gave my husband's bank card to my two year old son while ordering pizza over the phone! He was so fascinated with the numbers I was reading off the card to the pizza place, he insisted on being part. I just handed it to him, without thinking twice. I remembered three days later, and still have no idea where the card is.
In preparation for post hospital I have been making meals to put in the freezer. The other night I cooked about 8 chicken breasts - took them out of the oven - and just left them on the counter. Completely forgot they were there. I remembered at 5:30 the next morning! I was so sick as I tossed them this morning.

Now, sometimes I can be kinda spacey, but really, I don't usually do things like this! Oh well. ;)

This and That...

2008-07-22T20:26:00.006-05:00

I suppose I should post something so we can get past the lizard under my refrigerator. The lizard has been caught and released. My sweet babysitter captured it - she was happy to report to me that she found a lizard while I was out and that she and Little One took it outside and put it in the grass. Thank you Dear Heart!

Today Little One asked me if we could go for a walk to look for snow and bugs.
"Walk? Find snow bugs?"
"You want to go for a walk to look for snow and bugs?"
"Ants! Okay!"

Little One is completely taken by anything that has to do with Christmas. He wants to watch Christmas DVD's all of the time, and loves to pretend to ice skate. I love that about him. I know he gets it from his Momma and Dadda, who both love Christmas. It's too bad for him that we moved from snowy Colorado to No-Snow Texas. Hopefully we'll have white Christmases when we go to visit!

So, despite being nine months pregnant and not really wanting to go look for snow in the 100 degree temps, I joined his quest. We looked high and low for both bugs and snow and found neither. It was so hot that not even the bugs were out. The closest thing to snow we found was the popsicles we had when we got home. Here's some documentation of our little journey.

No Bugs Here.

Nor Here.This is the walk way that leads to our front door. Little One loves to sit on these steps and "think". He'll say: "Sit and think." Then he puts his hands under his chin and says "hmmm".
I wonder what he's thinking about here. He was in some pretty deep thought.

And while I'm uploading pictures, here's some from last week. The first set is what I found in the kitchen when returning from switching the laundry. He was able to reach the carton of strawberries on the counter and was quite happy with his find. If you look closely you can see the Tiger stripes he drew on himself 20 minutes earlier. And the pink bandana? It used to be mine. Not for the time being!.

And, we are loving the pool this summer. I've never been much of a water kind of girl, but am rapidly becoming one. Little One loves to go to the pool and we always have such a fun time. Plus, it totally wears him out for a nice long nap! :) Here's some that I took last Sunday. The pool is really shallow and never goes above 2 feet for much of it. Perfect for little people!

Coming to tell Momma "My turn to swim". Meaning, it's your turn to swim with me - pronouns are a tricky thing to learn! Daddy lying on the "beach in the back ground cracks me up! :)

"Swimming" with all of his heart.

So Far Today....

2008-07-17T13:25:00.004-05:00

There is a lizard under my refrigerator. I've been chasing him for three days. Every time I find him I jump a mile high - and then he runs away and I miss him. How the heck am I going to get him? Oh, please little lizard, come out when Hubs is home! I am definitely no lizard catching pro.

Then, I found two big bugs in the kitchen. I don't even want to know what they were.

Little One just swallowed a penny. He had a startled look on his face - and when I asked him what was wrong -
"Eat Penny"
"You ate a penny?"
"Like it? mmmm deshishos. (delicious) deshishos mommy? Like it?" With a very confused look on his face. He's been asking me that over and over. I don't think he liked it, and I don't believe he'll try to eat another penny from here on out :) .

Just Waiting Randomness

2008-07-16T23:39:00.003-05:00

I don't have much to post about. It's been pretty low-key around here. I am still very pregnant, with very few contractions, and am now counting down the days until we get to see and hold baby brother!

I've spent much of the week doing baby laundry - and washing the car seat, swing, and bouncy seat covers. Why can't all laundry be as fun as new baby laundry?

Today I went to a lactation consultant for a prenatal visit - I had quite a hard time nursing Little One, and am hoping to get a jump-start and another try with this little guy. The visit was very informative and I'm so glad I took the time to go. In my opinion, I think lactation consultants are absolute angels. They so came through for us with helping me and Little One be successful, despite the circumstances. And today proved to be no different. She recommended a different kind of nursing pillow than I used with Little One - and had one for $45.00 (gulp). I decided to wait to make the purchase, and stopped at a consignment store on the way home - they had one for $15.00. Finding a great bargain so makes my day.

I am very behind on reading/commenting on blogs - simply because my computer is upstairs - and I've tried to limit my stair climbing. It only takes walking across a room and I am totally out of breath. After climbing the stairs I have to sit and take a rest! I have barely no lung space! Tonight I was making the most simple dinner ever and I had to sit down and let hubs take over.

I think that's it for now. I need to go find some pillows. :)

Baby Transportation

2008-07-10T05:21:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was a huge milestone. Little One and I went to Target to do some grocery shopping. When he saw the carts he wanted to ride in the MOTHER cart. You know, the one that seems like you are pushing a train with the two little seats in the front?

We've tried this cart before - and in the past, I've used it like a bribe - and set it up to be a special privilege to ride in such a cool cart. Who am I kidding? Little One seems to think it's a jungle gym. In, out, up, around and over the thing... by the end of my shopping trip I am about ready to pull out both of our hair, while pushing an empty ENORMOUS cart and chasing a toddler.

So, yesterday, I had determined to just grab my regular cart, and let him walk through the store. My list was small, and I didn't want to fight the cart issues.

The minute we stepped inside he spotted the red train of a cart. And insisted that he ride in it. I am sure you can imagine the two year old insisting part. I told him that he had to sit there and buckle his seat belt - or we would put it back. And oh my goodness! He did it! He sat in the seat and didn't even fight me the whole shopping trip. For the first time he noticed all of the pictures that Target hangs from the ceiling. "Thet's that?" (What's that?), with finger pointing to the signs, was the premise of our Target visit. We made it all the way through the grocery part, and I was even able to hit the baby isles to pick up some good deals. He sat through the check out lane - the melt down happened when he saw the bananas being lifted out of the cart and had to have one. And then sit at little snack area tables. And then want a special treat. And then see a picture of a blue icey drink and want that. So, the last two minutes didn't go so well, and we left the store crying. But, that's so much better than half way through the shopping trip!! Way to go Little One!

Which brings me to the topic of my post. So, how in the world are we going to do Target trips with two little ones? I am tempted to think that all my shopping will be done later in the evening when I can go childless. But, let's be real. That's probably not going to happen as often as I like.

I am thinking about toting that baby carrier and managing a toddler. I personally find that carrier so heavy and awkward. So, what do you all think about baby slings? I've read about them on blogs, and I even saw some for sale in Target yesterday. I never used one with Little One. But, I can't help but think this may be my solution when we venture out and about.

My question is this - how do you know what kind to buy? There are so many different ones to chose from, and heavens, I don't think I want to spend a fortune investing in baby slings. So, I'd love to hear if any of you have any input - as well as resources to turn to.

My other quandary is the double stroller. To buy or not to buy? There are days when Little One loves to ride. There are days when he doesn't. When Little One was born I got the whole travel system deal. It worked great. But, now do I want to plop down the money for the double travel system deal?

During our latest trip to Babies R Us, we checked out all of the double strollers and found one that we thought would work. Hubs and Little One actually spent most of the time running around the store seeing all the different ways the stroller could go. (ie - popping wheelies, how fast it can turn a corner, etc, both having a grand time). We decided on one that was super cool looking and riding (which would mean I'd have to get the matching infant car seat just because I want it all to match.) Then, on July 4th while walking through the park we noticed that Little One had pretty much outgrown the stroller we have now, which is the same line as the one at Babies. I guess the boys were too busy running around the store for us to notice that detail. Now we're second guessing our original choice.

Then I was at the Y on Saturday and saw this. I even talked to the momma who was pushing it and got her opinion. This seems like the best option - price and all.

But again, I'd love to hear your opinions about double strollers. Are they worth it?

Saving whales, music, and birthday cake. All in Little One's day.

2008-07-09T13:40:00.006-05:00

Little One is watching Go Diego! rescue the whales. He insisted on sitting in his "boat" just like Diego.

"Mama! Plays music!" What a discovery!

Since his birthday he asks to make a birthday cake all the time. Yesterday, as he pulled his stool up to the counter, and said: "Mama Helper! Make birthday cake for you?" I gave in and we pulled a brownie mix out of the pantry. It's not really birthday cake, but close enough. We decided that a birthday cake for Baby Brother will definitely be in order. This is his brownie batter covered little face before I put him in the shower. :)

Have a stupendous day!

Being stretched - part 2

2008-07-08T09:30:00.000-05:00

Thank you for all of your kind and encouraging comments concerning our adjustment to Baby Brother and Little One. I am anxious to be on the other side:)

I have debated over whether or not to post about this part - but I've come to the conclusion that there is really nothing to lose if I do. So, here goes!

The second deal that's stretching my heart and faith these days - is the decision concerning the whole birthing process. I have wrestled, tossed and turned over how and what to do. You see, the day Little One was born was a very long day. Hubs and I had planned and desired to do a natural childbirth. Our physician was very supportive and willing to work with us. But, I never actually went into labor on my own. My doctor let me wait until the very last day (two weeks overdue) - and then we went in to be induced. That was at 8:00 in the morning. I labored until 3:00 pm with no pain meds. I still wasn't anywhere close to having a baby. After getting an epidural I relaxed enough to get to the pushing stage - and pushed for two hours - and Little One still wouldn't come. It was at 2:00 in the morning that we had to do a C-section.

Later, my doctor told us that due to certain circumstances of my body, we had a 12% chance of having a successful vbac - and if I tried, there would be risk involved. He told us that with the next one, it would be wise to plan to have a C-section. I will never forget the relief that washed over me when he said these words - because the labor, and then the surgery - along with the emotional let down from my own expectations on myself was something I never wanted to revisit.

Now, two years later, there is still this desire within to try and there is even a bigger desire to be "successful" and prove to myself that I can do it the way I had originally desired. I have asked myself time and again if I am making my choice of a scheduled c-section out of fear? wisdom? lack of faith? All of these questions boil down to the desire in my heart to experience childbirth. I am grieving that there is a very large possibility that will not be a reality for me.

I have decided that we are going to schedule a C-section - and I will rest confidently in that decision. I have also prayed that if it's God's will for me to have experience childbirth, that I would go into labor - and it would be fast and no time for a c-section. Otherwise, I will rest in the date that the doctor and I chose, and we'll go from there.

Since I have come to this conclusion, there is a lot more peace in my heart.

My sister used to be a nurse in labor and delivery - and she had some very encouraging words for me yesterday. She said that a lot of moms who have had the same experience as I and schedule the 2nd C-section are so pleased with the result. They are relieved that it's so much easier than the first, although there may be some disappointment. They are often able to breastfeed when they weren't able to with the first (which is a deal for me as well) and most are ready to go home 48 hours after the delivery. After I talked with her, I had the thought - what's wrong with all of that? I certainly gave my all the first time, and what's wrong with having a somewhat "easy" delivery?

Which brings me to a whole other topic. Sometimes I think it is so weird that I even have a choice. I feel odd making decisions that God should make. Does that make sense? Who am I to determine what day this baby's birthday should be? Just sharing my thoughts here....

The bottom line is that I have to cling to Proverbs 3:5 - Trust in the Lord with all of my heart. Don't lean on my understanding. In this situation (and every other one) acknowledge Him. He'll straighten out the path.

I've had to lay all the facts, opinions, my desires and everything else at the Lord's feet - and trust that he has given us wisdom to know what to do. The bottom line is that we need a healthy baby and a healthy mom. Going this route, I think, will achieve that very thing.

That's What It's All About

Book Review

Our Little Orange....

A Lovely Autumn Morning

The Sweet Berry Farm

Our Big News

Happy First Birthday!

Show Us Your Life - The Dress

Pretty Much Our Favorite Place Ever....

About to pop...

Memorial Day

Restoring Order

Not Me! Monday...

Feeding the pigs.

We all scream...

A Morning's Notes to Self....

Mercy, Mercy!

Restoring Order

Restoring Order - the reading nook

Yeah for Sunday Musings!

Restoring Order - Refrigerator and Pantry

And the winner is...

Giveaway update.

Finding Blue Bonnet Fields....

Restoring Order - End of Week Wrap Up

Restoring Order - Mid-week check in...

Texas Blue Bonnets

To Rule and Subdue

Restoring Order - Project Number One

Easter 2009

Palm Sunday

The Kind of Week We're Having...This Pretty Much Sums It All Up.

A Pretty Great Deal

Family Favorites...

"These Are the Days We'll Remember..."

comparing...

Test, Test, Is this thing on???

Seven Months!

Like A Brother

Six Months!

Rest.less.

How we spent most of the day....

Going to E*l*m*o's House!

It's all in the name...

Jamaica - ooh I wanna take ya....

The Lack of Blog Attention Will Continue...

Best shots of Christmas...

Biting off more than I can chew.

January 1, 2009

Christmas through the eyes of a two year old.

Rebates for Huggies Diapers

Did you know?

Today

Another fun giveaway...

Need some holiday dough?

For the Record - Food Network has become my new BFF

A whole bunch of new!

Four Months

The Friendly Skies

I'm back....

The Pumpkin Patch

Boo!

Traveling with a toddler

Things that make my job easier

Look What I Found DaDa!

Pics!

Oh Where Oh Where Can Our Little Bear Be?

Sleep is a wonderful thing.

Baby Brother is not setting the best example...

What a day!

Move over Miderman boots...

Two Months!

Tender Heart

Where I've been...

Muffins!

It's beginning to look a lot like....

" I dumped da bath Mama!"

Six Weeks

Up Up and Away!

100th post = 100 things about me!

Going to Elm*o's House!