Don't Blink

How fast the time goes......

2011-03-23T16:26:00.002-05:00

My word, I can't believe it has already been over a month! I don't know how people blog every other day.

We had spring break last week. We had a great time and I LOVED it. LOVED it! Such a tease for the summer to come, and I am ready. We worked in the yard at our other house that is for sale, got our carpets cleaned, I got a massage and facial and pedicure that my mom gave me for Christmas, had a date with my husband, and went to Ruidoso for a few nights. Thanks to the Pierce Family for letting us use their cabin. I will certainly be posting pictures from this trip ASAP. And by ASAP I mean next week. I am going to my cousin's wedding in Atlanta with my parents and sister tomorrow and I won't have time what with my needing to pack, etc.

We are loving spring! Enjoying walks every day after school, writing all over the driveway with chalk, etc.

Sydney's 6th Birthday

2011-02-14T10:01:00.002-06:00

I am really getting out of order now, but I am on a roll!

Syd turned 6 on January 20. I can't believe my 9 lb baby girl is 6. She is very charming, is so sweet to her brother, and does her best at school. What more could a mama ask for?

On her actual birth day we went to Chili's for dinner. She requested a place where she could have cheese dip for an appetizer and a cheeseburger for her meal. This seemed to fit the bill. She insists, as usual, on getting all dressed up. All 7 of us are enjoying a booth made for 4 with Bill on the end. Out of nowhere, Syd becomes drowsy. She begins to fall asleep. Gigi and I are worried. What in the world? Is she getting sick? About 30 mins later Brokeback mentions that Syd had a runny nose so he felt free to give her a magnum does of Benadryl after school. Mystery solved. Before the mystery was solved, however, Gigi gets in a dither about possible illness. Flinging her hand sanitizer around like a lunatic. Insists we all use some. Accidentally drops a dollop IN THE BIRTHDAY GIRL'S EYE. Syd was quite upset about the burning sensation. There is a picture of this on Morgan's FB but I don't have it for your enjoyment right now.

After that we went back to Gigi and Poppy's for gift opening time, since they bought her more gifts than her parents did. We also enjoyed cupcakes made by Morgan. Who then insisted on taking all but a few of the uneaten ones with her to school the next day to score some brownie points.

Per usual, please enjoy the photos.

Asleep at the table at Chili's.

Amongst her many gifts.

Showing off her brand new and beautiful Tiffany's necklace from her Nana! It is beautiful and is something she can wear forever.

Her beloved Tangled Tower. It is the small one. She opened it and Hayden said, "That is Hayden's Tangled Tower, Sydney." She disagreed. I guess his gift of the Tangled horse with a brush and hair clips for its long mane weren't enough for him.

Couldn't be more pleased with the big six on her cupcake.

Make a wish!

Hayden and his cupcake. Meh.

Syd's Sweet and Sassy Valentine's Day Gift

2011-02-14T09:23:00.007-06:00

Like many other folks, my mother and I have really jumped onto the Groupon, Living Social, etc. bandwagon. I myself have recently purchased deals for Bath and Bodyworks ($30 worth of stuff for $5 with my $10 first time Groupon-er coupon, thank you very much), Cup of Yo, and Lu's Fitness. Around Christmas, my mother bought a Groupon for a package deal to Sweet and Sassy
, a salon and spa for little girls. It was her Valentine's surprise. Considering Syd is the girliest girl I know, she absolutely loved it! She got a mani, pedi, facial, haircut and style, make up application and ride in the hummer. My mother swears she paid less than $40 for all of it. This was quite a deal. This was smart on Sweet and Sassy's part though, as now Syd really wants to have her birthday party for 8 girls there next year including a limo ride which would cost me over $300. But I digress. The whole thing was great fun, but went right on over the top at the end when she sprayed glitter all over her hair and put BRIGHT pink glitter eye shadow, blush hearts, and lipstick on her too prior to the three of us hopping into the Hummer limo. This was a big weekend for Syd as I also took she and Hayden and a friend to Chick Fil A and to see Gnomeo and Juliet on Saturday. I hope she remembers this when I refuse to leave the house next weekend. Anywho, scroll down for pictures to commemorate the experience.

Sister enjoying her facial. She kept those cucumbers on for about 20 seconds.

Syd enjoying her pedicure.

Pink and silver zebra toes.

Manicure. Obviously.

Pink and black zebra fingers.

The final product. Our lady really was the sweetest. Mother of 3 who works part time to send her 3 kids to private Christian school.

With our limo driver. Pay no attention to my hair. Let's pretend a breeze came through.

Gigi and her favorite most spoiled grand daughter.

H-Dub's Classroom Christmas Party

2011-02-14T09:12:00.008-06:00

H-Dub enjoys school about 60-65% of the time. He is with his same fabulous teacher and two teachers aides this year, but at a different school. I thought it wouldn't be too much of an adjustment. I was wrong. He went from a small all Pre-K school to a LARGE Pre-K through 5 school. The classroom is much smaller, and they no longer have the large loft in there which is disappointing. Also, they had an amazing fenced in park at the old school. This is not the case at the new school. Hayden is in a class with 10 other boys.

I attended his Christmas party. I will attend his Valentines party today. He really enjoys my being there and he also likes to give his teachers gifts. He helps them unwrap and jumps up and down clapping and saying "open it open it!"

I must admit that these photos are sub par. I will try and do better now that I know they will all be displayed for all the world to see, again. I will be sure and get some pictures with his teacher's at today's party.

Assisting Ms. Martha with her gift.

Enjoying the food.

Beside the angel tree.

Participating in the Christmas craft.

Smiling for the camera?

Christmas Eve 2010

2011-02-14T09:00:00.009-06:00

Okay, so, I am having trouble deciding how far back to go with my posts. The thought of trying to cover all that I missed is overwhelming so I have decided to just start from around Christmas.

We had Christmas Eve at my house, as usual. We went to church and then had a dining room table full of appetizers this year. It went over well and there was still TONS left so I think this is going to be our new tradition. Aunt Missy joined us this year, and so did the Harmons. As usual the kids got an overwhelming amount of gifts.

Coming up are a few pictures of the fabulous event. All of these were taken by my mother, and you can clearly see who she favors.

Morgan in her favorite Christmas gift from me, a child's headband with a tiny hat on it.

Hayden and Granny.

Syd and favorite cousin Ashton in their new snuggies from Bill and Pam. By far their favorite gifts.

Granny and two of her children, Pam and Melissa.

Granny, Aunt Missy, and Syd's random American Girl doll that she gave to Granny to hold for a few hours. Not sure what that was about.

Cousin Nicole, Sister Morgan, and yours truly.

Syd and Granny enjoying some appetizers together.

Back Again

2011-01-30T10:38:00.003-06:00

I don't know whether there is anyone left reading this or if you will be happy or disgusted, but I am back once more. I tried to do a blog about H-Dub's trials and tribulations with autism and what we are doing to help him, but I never really got into it. He has come really far with his speech, and has made great gains in other areas as well. He is in the PPCD or special ed preschool right now and will be in PPCD 5 next year. He has an August birthday and while I would have held him back regardless of his issues, I am thrilled there is a program for him next year. We hope he will be ready for inclusion Kindergarten (regular classroom with some modifications) in 2012-2013.

Sydney is a Kindergartner this year and loves it. She is doing well. She continues to do dance at the same studio my sister and I went to, and participates in gymnastics after school. She is currently attending the elementary my sister and I went to, but I plan on transferring her to our home school for 1st grade. She loves where she is, but our home school will be a better fit for Hayden when he goes to K. He is at one school this year but will at another next year. We find out which one in April. This will be a transition for us because he has had the same teacher and two aides for the least 2 years. They are the best in the district in my opinion and will be greatly missed.

I decided to blog again to keep up with all of the kids' goings on. Sydney is learning to read and enjoys looking at the old blogs I did on the computer. She often asks why there aren't any new ones. So I am going to try and keep up.

I am no longer the testing coordinator at the high school. I am now just a regular old counselor for students whose last name starts with Q-T. My stress level has gone down 80% and we are all much happier. I still get off at 5 which is late to me but we are off at 1 on Fridays. I think my ultimate goal would be to do elementary counseling but I don't know that it will happen. I will push for it after another year or two where I am.

Brokeback had another back surgery in November. He went to the Mayo Clinic to help his mother after her liver transplant in the Fall, (it went amazingly well, what a blessing!) and sat for several days waiting to see the doctor and be accepted as a patient. It is a year wait to get into Mayo for back surgery so this was a blessing, as well. I am so happy to report that his pain has gone from an 8 daily to a 3 daily. He goes back at the end of February and we could use prayers for that. He is having shooting pain and numbness down his legs daily.

I clearly cannot go back and blog about everything that we have missed in the last 18 months, but I will try and catch up on some of the more exciting things. Pretty much the things that are important to Syd.

2009-07-21T08:37:00.003-05:00

I know that I haven't blogged in TOO long. I can't decide if this will get better or worse when I go back to work! I took a job at a fabulous high school. I am going to be the testing administrator. I will do TAKS, AP, PSAT, and ESL testing. And that is about the gist of it. I will be able to put my organization skills to work! Good thing I really like organizing.

I have been fairly productive lately. Both of the kids closets are cleaned out, as is my laundry room, I have cleaned out my bathroom cabinets, and I have reorganized the playroom. I still must do my horrific desk and my closet. The office closet is also very bad but Brokeback messed that one up so I don't know why it is my responsibility to clean it. So I don't think I will.

Not so many crafts, lately. We do playdoh, paint with watercolors, draw with markers and crayons, but it is all free-style, you see. We did this craft for the 4th, which I absolutely adored. I think I may have enjoyed it more than the kids did.

The potty training isn't going so well. Hayden can pull down his underpants to pee, hold it until he is ready, etc. He, however, doesn't ever go in the toilet. He is scared of the big one and won't sit down to pee. So we are taking a break and hope to reacquaint him with the big potty soon.

I go back to work on August 5th. I am trying to soak up as much fun with my kids as I can until then!

Syd's First Dance Recital

2009-06-11T17:52:00.006-05:00

Syd's first dance recital was alot of fun for us! She loved every minute of it, and was so patient every time I put on her make up or did her hair. She really is a girly girl and I am not sure where she gets it. The theme was Signs, Symbols and Other Silly Things. She did a dance to "I Love my Cabbage Patch Kid". I don't think she was ever nervous at all, and enjoyed being on stage with the other girls.

You know what time it is..........

2009-05-31T10:42:00.004-05:00

The pool is open for summer! We had an impromptu kick off yesterday with Gigi, Poppy and Aunt Morgan. H-Dub was quite hesitant at first and hung onto Morgan or Poppy like a spider monkey. But by the end of the day he was swimming and floating alone in the hot tub. Fun was had by all and H-Dub has a great base tan going from his few hours outside. Wish I had his skin.

Fun with Playdoh

2009-05-31T10:37:00.004-05:00

H-Dub's attention span is getting longer now that he is a little older. We played with playdoh on Saturday morning and it held his attention for about 20 minutes! This may be a record. Syd enjoyed herself for an hour or so. Apparently the toothpicks are the biggest hit, but they also get into the rolling pin and the cookie cutters.

Beautiful!

2009-05-28T18:55:00.000-05:00

So precious. Tears.

Our Newest Family Member

2009-05-16T10:35:00.006-05:00

We have fostered Guiness since spring break. He is a very big dog, and we have a very small yard, so I don't know that we are the best home for him. But we have decided to adopt him anyway. He has lately exhibited some interest in swimming in the pool or running around it so he can get some exercise that way. He is now virtually house broken, and he is the sweetest dog. He was never socialized before coming to stay with us and when Brokeback would pet him he would literally gag with anxiety. We have come a long way. He loves the kids and chases them around the house. He is half german shepard and half mastiff so he will get pretty big. We don't know how big, though. He is about 8 months, now. He has a very loud, mean bark when someone (even me) is at the door or walking by the house. Which is good for Brokeback's paranoia.

Syd and Guinny, as she calls him. H-Dub was not supposed to be in the picture but was randmoly a camera hog.

Daddy and H-Dub. When H-Dub saw I was taking pics he would try to get really close to the camera. So close it wouldn't focus or take a picture. So he hopped in daddy's lap and said cheese til I took a pic. This is not something that happens very often so I decided to include it here.

Full body shot of Guiness, albeit from behind. I love Brokeback's face in this one.

Hayden loving puppy.

Guiness enjoying a wand.

Syd asked me to take a picture of her so I did.

Mother's Day Tea

2009-05-16T10:27:00.005-05:00

Syd's school lets the 3 and 4 yo classes sponsor a Mother's Day Tea every year. This was my first time to get to attend and it was wonderful! Not only did they take the kids to United and let them decorate a heart shaped cake for their mother, I also got the cutest tile necklace that is a bunny made from her thumb print, and a big E that she decorated with paper. I have it in my office.

Syd and the others sang three songs then we had cookies and tea or lemonade. It was a great time. Syd did such a good job on stage, I don't think she was nervous at all.

Mama and Syd.

Syd with the cake she made me. Not her best picture.

Peforming on the risers.

Waving before she starts.

Her favorite, random pose. I don't know why she insists on bending forward and putting a leg up.

Spring Craft

2009-05-16T10:21:00.002-05:00

Syd loved this craft so much she made a male and a female version. They are chicks. The male was black and the female was yellow. I believe she named them Harry and Harriet. Aunt Morgan was here to help with this craft which was an added plus.

Syd working diligently on Harry.

Harriet in all of her splendor.

Aunt Morgan keeping a close eye on Syd's work.

Easter

2009-05-16T10:11:00.003-05:00

Are these late? I would say so. And I don't even have the egg dying pictures as they were taken by my mother. But here are some pics of the kids enjoying their baskets and Syd hunting for eggs. Hayden had pretty much no desire even though they were "hidden" in plain sight. Maybe next year, eh?

And, okay, these pictures are not so great. But we had a GREAT Easter. Aunt Missy and Uncle Bill were in town, and Missy took a ton of pictures, probably even some of the kids in their Easter outfits. Which is something I obviously failed to do. So add taking good pictures again to the list. I am just realizing exactly how much I have slipped lately. For shame. I will blame on the fact I have misplaced the memory card for my purse camera. I WILL go buy another one today!

Back Again

2009-05-16T08:51:00.002-05:00

So, another long break. I will say again that I have had a REALLY hard time balancing working and home life. I for some reason feel I should be able to still get it all in, though because there is only 24 hours in a day and I am so not one to do anything after 9 p.m. I am not sure how that is possible. Somethings have had to give, and unfortunately those things have been picking up around the house on week days, blogging,and cooking dinner. I plan on working on this for next year, because, my job is over! The counselor came back on Weds, I worked with him Weds, Thurs and Fri. I do have two substitute teaching jobs next week but that leaves me off Tues, Weds, and Thurs so I have some time.

We have some fun plans for summer, which to me starts around June 1st. I made the mistake of signing up for too many classes last year, thinking Syd would be bored. This year, we plan on swimming alot, obviously and inviting friends over to swim with us. Syd spends as much time as possible with our next door neighbor C, who turns 4 next weekend. I am sure that will continue through the summer months.

I have also printed out a June, July, and August activity calendar and wrote in all the fun things that are going on throughout the summer. I wrote down the story times at the library, the Critterfest at the Science Spectrum, the VBS that Syd is going to, Theater in the Park, etc. This way if we need something to do, and most mornings they want to get out of the house, we know where to go.

Syd will go to VBS one week, and she will also take three weeks of the Art Factory that she LOVED last year. It is just 9-10:30 a.m. M-F, there is a theme and a snack. We will do bible study on Wednesday mornings, and H-Dub and I plan on doing one class a week together, a Mommy and Me craft class. And I think they are going to take gymnastics for either the month of June or July.

I also have big plans to go to Dallas, Austin and Houston. We will see if this possible considering I also have big plans to reorganize my desk, laundry room (this one is a MUST), kitchen, closet, kids closets, AND possibly paint my room, bathroom, guest bathroom, office at whatever school I end up at, and Syd wants her room painted pink. I will also potty train Hayden, exercise and eat well, and teach Syd to read. Seems like some lofty goals, no? We shall see what actually happens. I will let you know.

Hippo Therapy

2009-03-30T18:05:00.002-05:00

Let me preface this by apologizing for the lack of pictures. We left the house like bats outta hell as usual and I forgot the camera. He goes back April 15th and I will DEFINITELY take pictures then.

He enjoyed it! He had no issues with putting on his helmet and belt. He brushed the horse, loved walking beside it with Daddy holding him, and sat on it for a few seconds, no saddle, his feet off one side. They told me that he was the best first time they have ever had. So I am proud. He will hopefully get on the horse the next time, or the next. I am so proud of him and he loved it.

By the end he was tuckered out. The wind today was ridiculous so he had some dirt in his eyes. He has only met his OT once before and she was giving many directions so that threw him off. He yelled at Brokeback to take him to the car at the end and of course Brokeback quickly obeyed.

BTW, Syd has no idea that H-Dub is doing horse therapy. The diva would throw an ugly "it's not fair" fit so we are just avoiding the whole thing. She and the dog we have (yes, Brokeback is fostering a very sweet pup) went over to Poppy's.

The Boy

2009-03-29T15:29:00.006-05:00

H-Dub is in high spirits today. He is wearing a new "Pidaman" shirt from Aunt Momo, and he has been able to bum around the house, eating whenever he wants and watching tv. He is bummed that I didn't have the french fries he asked for, but so is life.

Today Gigi and I went to Target to get new shoes for the kids. I was beyond thrilled to find gold sandals in Syd's size that I have been searching for for weeks. I saw them, decided not to buy, went back 2 days later and they were gone. I even went to the other Target in town and to two Targets while in Austin! We went back today looking for "other" shoes and POOF there they were! Woot! Made my day. We bought two pairs of shoes for H-Dub that he had to choose between. I put one on each foot. He couldn't make a decision. He came back to me later with both pairs, I asked him to pick one. He did and I shoved them onto his porky little feet. He then began to whimper and cluck. He wanted one of EACH on. Such an eccentric child.

H-Dub was recently diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder. He is a bit delayed in speech, and after being evaluated by an OT this what they think is going on. He has some issues with auditory processing, it seems, and some issues in the vestibular category, or balance. Brokeback and I aren't so concerned about that but we do want to improve the auditory issues as much as possible.

Sooo....tomorrow he starts his Hippo Therapy! Which is on a horse! We are so excited and hope he likes it. We don't know much about it. Oddly enough, when I was a counselor at Evans, the Guidance office offered us the chance to go and see what Hippo Therapy is all about but I declined due to my work load that day. Too bad. I will be back with the low down on this and pictures tomorrow, hopefully!

The shoes.

A rare picture of mirth.

Now it's passed. Back to business as usual. Milkaholic.

A Visit from P-Paw Steve!

2009-03-29T09:50:00.004-05:00

We were so excited to see P-Paw Steve! It would have been two years this summer since his last visit. He lives in New York, so we understand. The kids had an absolute blast with him. Most of his time was spent in their rooms and playroom playing with the toys he brought them, watching their shows and playing with their other toys. He also took Brokeback and I to a fab dinner on the last night at Las Brisas. Soooo good. Here are some pics of the kids enjoying their time with him.

Putting H-Dubya's train together, which he repeatedly tore apart afterward.

There is a child/children under the sheet.

Spring Break Trip II

2009-03-29T09:16:00.009-05:00

The kids and I trucked it on down to Austin the day after we returned from Ruidoso. I am blessed in that my kids are always great in the car as long as the DVDs are rolling. I think I was more impatient then they were at the bitter end. It was about 7 hours there and 7 hours back when you factored in our San Angelo lunch and one stop to potty each way.

We went to visit Nicole, Ash and Aunt Mimi Renee. They certainly showed us a good time! I lived in Austin for a few years and Brokeback and I were married there. So it is one of my favorite places. I had no idea that it had so many fabulous activities for kids! We only did a few and Nicole had a whole page of additional stuff we could have done. I didn't take any pics with my large camera but as usual Nicole did not disappoint. Here are a few pics of the time we had.

Immediately upon our arrival Syd digs through all of the good stuff and gets dressed up.

H-Dub absolutely loved being out of the car and playing on Ash's big swing set. On our way home Syd told me that was her favorite part! On the next visit I guess we will just let them play in the backyard and swim at the fun pool?

Zilker Park train. The best train ride EVER for $3. I think we paid $6 per PERSON on the Ruidoso train and it was nowhere near as fab.

Syd and Ash crawling through the cave in the Barton Springs exhibit. Warmed my heart to see it because my first year of teaching in Austin I took my fifth grade class to Barton Springs on a field trip and they enjoyed the same stuff.

Nicole took us to the lake and the water was really down. No rain.

Posing with the kids. Apparently the sun was in Syd's eyes.

Dancing to the band at Johnny Fins!

Someone ruined my bluebonnet picture.

He did love this little spring.

Thanks so much to Nicole and Aunt Mimi for all of their hospitality! We had a wonderful time and plan on coming back this summer before Mama goes back to work!

Spring Break Trip I

2009-03-29T08:39:00.004-05:00

For the first part of our Spring Break we went to Ruidoso, NM. My parents took us all and we stayed in a great cabin on the golf course. Just about a block from the main shopping, it was the perfect place. We hope to stay there again.

We shopped (my new favorite children's clothing store is Klassy Kids-so cute I could have spent the day), the kids rode horses and a train, rode the go-carts twice, took a gondola to the top of the mountain, ate great food, etc. My only complaint is that H-Dub was not the best sleeper, there.

Family pic on top of the mountain after the gondola ride up.

H-Dub and Mommy on the go-cart. He absolutely loved it. May have been his favorite part of the trip. I think he liked the vibrations.

Syd driving the mini go-cart by herself. It didn't last too long, I think because she was the only child on the track and she is a social gal.

Syd riding a horse! Couldn't get H-Dub on one. He was in a TERRIBLE mood that morning and needed a nap.

Syd jumping on a giant trampoline!

H-Dub really enjoyed this tractor/digger. It cost 75 cents per ride.

Big wave from Syd while she and Momo are on the go-cart.

The kids exhausted after a busy day and ready for bed.

Syd's Valentine Party!

2009-03-08T17:26:00.003-05:00

I was in charge of planning Syd's class Valentines party this year. I decided we would eat pizza and the kids could decorate their own cupcakes. They seemed to really enjoy themselves and took the cupcake decorating very seriously. She brought a mailbox full of fun stuff home with her. The parents in classroom (including me) really go nuts on holiday parties. Tons of candy, little toys, etc. are brought by everyone.

Syd enjoying her pizza.

Taking cupcake decorating seriously.

Okay, now this is a special picture. Syd is a really neat child. She cleans things up, doesn't like to be messy and is a fairly neat eater. I have no idea why she decided to be such a little piggy when eating her cupcake.

Here is the reason her face looks so messy. Andy from a Christmas Story, anyone?

Syd's First Bike

2009-03-08T17:20:00.003-05:00

So apparently never even posted about the rest of Syd's birthday. I must apologize for my just dropping the entire blogging thing. There has been a ton of stuff going on, stuff to stress about, etc. so I have just focused on getting through each day and being sweet to my kids and husband through all of it.

Here is a picture of Syd's favorite birthday gift. My parents gave it to her. She learned to fully ride it and steer today! So proud of her and she is very proud of herself, as well.

Has it been this long?!?!

2009-03-08T16:55:00.003-05:00

I think this is my longest hiatus ever. I feel bad. I have had some busy stuff going on with subbing, sick child, I got sick, etc. etc. And I doubt that my misplacing the downloading apparatus for pictures helped, either.

Here is a quick story that I don't want to forget. Terrible reality tv is a guilty pleasure of mine. I try not to watch the really trashy stuff but there is currently a fabulous show on called Toddlers and Tiaras. Syd and I watched our first episode this morning. There was a 2 year old named Marleigh that really gave her mother a run for her money. At one point she repeatedly slapped her mother's face. Syd later told us, "Marleigh is a tush." That she was.

Random

2009-02-08T15:11:00.002-06:00

Some random things going around here:

1. H-Dub's speech is really improving! He is pointing out shapes everywhere we go, he prefers circles and squares, but also enjoys finding starts and triangles. He has also talked in sentences a bit, told my mother "I don't know" yesterday, said, "You'll do it," to me when he wanted milk. We are so happy and excited.
2. I have still never heard H say the word yes. If a show asks a question he automatically shouts "NO" back.
3. Working makes me have to hurry more. In the last two weeks my mother has noticed a few times that Syd has her shoes on the wrong feet. EVERY.TIME. I am the one who put her shoes on.
4. We went to get everyone's hair cut (except for mine) at Fantastic Sam's Tuesday. I ran in after work, changed into jeans and out of my Uggs because it was so warm. Made sure everyone was dressed, got the fun bag ready because we planned to eat out. Went around town, the haircut place was so busy that we decided to eat first. On my way into Cracker Barrel, My feet feel weird, I look down, I have on TWO DIFFERENT SHOES. Both flats. One open toed and patent and one closed toed leather. So embarrassing. No one mentioned it but I wonder how many people noticed? EMBARRASSING.
5. It is 3:15 on Sunday and all four of us are still in our pajamas.
6. It is going to be a busy week, and I am glad I will be at home. We have both crafts and cooking planned for Valentines Week. Hayden and Syd both have a pizza party to look forward to in their respective classes. MOPS on Friday. Looking forward to all of it!

Last day!

2009-02-06T09:46:00.004-06:00

It is my last day of work. I could definitely keeping going and be fine, but I have missed my kids. Have plenty planned for Valentine Week at home. This will all take place after I violently clean and reorganize my house. It has gotten ugly in some parts, I will say that. My desk is a true black hole.

I do plan on subbing some through the rest of this year. Then enjoying much pool time with my babies!

Expect some Valentine craft posts next week!

Today

2009-02-04T14:59:00.003-06:00

Has been a great day.
1. I got flowers from the principal today because this is my last week and I guess she loves me
2. My co-counselor took my to Queso's for lunch for my farewell luncheon and while I may pop and am perpetually burping silently it was soooo good
3. My kids slept til 7 today, and therefore, so did I :) (and I still got to work on time)
4. It is 63 degrees outside and tomorrow will be 69!
5. Syd and I have a library date after work and I have a list of 15 or more children's books to check out for she and H-Dubya
6. This is my last week of work and I get to look forward to (possibly) 6 months of being home with my babies before I rejoin the working world permanently in the Fall
7. The kiddos and I plan on doing some hot tubbin' before dinner

I miss you, blogging world and friends. Hopefully next year I can handle blogging and working but for now, it is tough.

Painting TOGETHER

2009-01-27T11:25:00.004-06:00

H-Dub, now that I am working and don't have as much time to devote to crafts and art projects, is loving painting. Here are some pics of he and sister sitting together nicely sharing their watercolor paints.

4th Birthday Party

2009-01-26T20:36:00.005-06:00

Syd's party went off without a hitch! She had a great time and her little guests seemed to, too! We painted their nails, put makeup on them and they got their hair did. They then played kiss the frog, had some cake and hurried home. Ron took all the pics and he did a great job!

Here are some pics:

Before:

After:

Getting her nails did.

H-Dub was in rare form this day. He loved all over a friend of Syd's big sister. ALL OVER. Held her hand, threw himself into her arms, fake laughed loudly.

He also loved Savannah's grandmother. Doesn't this look natural and comfortable for her?

Playin kiss the frog.

Work

2009-01-13T20:53:00.003-06:00

I am enjoying my time at work! I thought my last school was the best thing since sliced bread, but where I am now is just as enjoyable a place to work, if you can believe it. Every school has it's strengths and weaknesses, but I really like a laid back campus and this campus definitely is. I know it is different when it is "your" school and you have that committment to it, but this makes me feel like I could definitely go back. Of course, when I do I feel sure my kids will have to be in an all day preschool from 9 to 4ish, I will work for longer than 5 weeks straight without a break, and I will be some school's TAKS coordinator. But I can handle it.

There are a couple of negatives about working. Number one, I only have about 3 to 3.5 "quality" hours with my kids afterschool, and I kinda stress out making them really count. Maybe that gets easier, I don't know. Number two, I am rushing around like a friggin' chicken with my head cut off, packing lunches, feeding and bathing, doing laundry etc. Number three, due to the busyness that comes from being away from home all day I am not able to keep up with my reading habit that I love so much. I used to be able to read a bit while they napped, at night, while Syd was in dance class, etc. Now it is right before I go to sleep and I am so tired I don't get but about 20 minutes in. Something has to give and my sleep is most important, but I feel sure it is going to take me forever to get through my current nonfiction choices that really need to be read. The Wonder of Boys and Boys and Girls Learn Differently! . I would also love to read The Minds of Boys:Saving Our Sons from Falling Behind in School and Life, but at this time it is not available at paperbackswap.com or at the sub-par public library. It may be July by the time I finish the two I have at the rate I am going, anyway. My 20 minutes obviously goes towards the fiction or "escape" books I so love.

Syd's 4th Birthday Bash

2009-01-13T20:45:00.003-06:00

Is coming up! And it should be a doozy. I will post pics after the fact. Here is a picture of the invite. Syd is looking so grown up! We can't believe she is turning 4. The last four years have past at lightening speed. I do feel so very blessed to have such a smart, beautiful, funny daughter. I love that she loves books as much as I do, even though she can't read! I love her little lisp that Brokeback and I think is the cutest thing ever. We will be so sad if she ever outgrows it. I love that she is now starting to tell knock knock jokes, even though I am not sure she gets them. I love her never ending dressing up, and how she is terribly outgoing with a few people but gets shy around a crowd. I love her elephant memory, which while I have a decent memory, too,she gets the real deal from her Gigi. You would not believe the random stuff she brings up from what I swear was 2 years ago. I love that she is at the age where she gets a little scared, and wants to sleep with us every night, so she can "read with you" and "snuggle". Happy Birthday to Daddy's little snuggle rabbit. Anyway, here is her invite.

More Manly Dress Up

2009-01-10T23:44:00.006-06:00

H-Dubya really is thrilled to have some manly dress up options. As I have said before, he is not attracted to any girly dresses, jewelry, etc. He will use a wand and that is all. I have NO IDEA why he wouldn't just take an if you can't beat 'em join 'em attitude and wear a dress or heels. You might think that Brokeback disapproved and sent off vibes but he didn't. He has a sister himself and knows how it is. Now that Hayden has these manly options, he wants to dress up as a pirate daily. We dressed Syd up as a princess for her birthday invitation picture. Well he saw her, did some tongue clucking to himself and ran to the dress up tub. Dragged out a pirate hat and Syd's old Thanksgiving Indian vest with a sword. I was impressed with his modification since he didn't see his full-on pirate outfit on top.

He enjoys gazing at himself in the mirror in this outfit almost as much as the Buzz outfit. He likes to admire his righteous bod. His manly physique. When I tried to go into the bathroom to get something, you know it is MY bathroom and I was just minding my own business, he squealed in a disapproving way and slammed the door in my face. You would think he is a temperamental teenager! I managed to catch the slam a second time on film.

Stamping it Up

2009-01-10T23:41:00.002-06:00

On a Sunday morning about a week ago Syd wanted to do something artsy. I had no desire. So I offered up the stamps. Of course, this was a day when H-Dub decided he really wanted to participate. And I was so proud of him, but it is strange that on one of the few days when I didn't want to supervise art, he was in the mood. This was after no less than 15 minutes of him leafing through the Lillian Vernon Spring Holiday catalog. I am not kidding.

Finger Painting in the Shower

2009-01-10T23:36:00.003-06:00

This is a new favorite pastime. And one that is now requested EVERY week when they take a bath. Kidding of course. But it is requested everytime they are getting into the bath. And it isn't tough to set up or clean up after. You can squeeze paint directly onto the side or floor of the tub or on the wall, and let them smear away. I take a dish rag with me and get it soaking wet then wash the wall down afterward. And the kids plop on down and enjoy a bath.

You can see how much H-Dub enjoys this. He doesn't give up the smiles for nothing. He makes you work for it. And yes, I did get a new flash for my camera. And no, it wasn't on when I decided I wanted to take pictures.

There will be no more updates......

2009-01-04T12:28:00.003-06:00

regarding H-Dub's big boy bed progress. Every time I write one things go badly. He was up last night from 12:45 to 4:30 on and off, this was after going straight to bed with no issues at 8:30. He also gave Brokeback fits during naptime two days ago, getting up like 5 times. Sigh.

I am starting a sub job at a middle school in town tomorrow and it will last 5 weeks. The money will come in very handy after Christmas. Brokeback will be the big man in charge, taking the kids to school two days and possibly sending them to the babysitter if needed and if she has any room. We have meal planned for him and we are going to work on a schedule this afternoon? His request. We have had to do a bit of adjustment, but things have worked out fairly well. For example, tomorrow is watch day at dance so my sweet next door neighbor Kristie is going watch H-Dubya during that hour and a half or so. If you know Syd's teacher Mrs. K at all you know she wouldn't take kindly to H-Dub's screaming mimi ways and his tendency to run around rooms.

Pray for me, send me happy thoughts for tomorrow. I know the job will be find but I am having nervous feelings about something and I assume that is it!

Big Boy Bed Update

2009-01-02T17:22:00.002-06:00

H-Dub has had a fabulous few days in the big boy bed. He hasn't been getting up much at all at nap time, and only gets up at couple times at night. Just walks out and looks around. Or walks around in his room and gets a toy to put in bed with him. I am fine with that.

Thought I would update since I have had questions about his progress.

Fun with Friends

2009-01-02T16:52:00.004-06:00

Some of our favorite lifetime (my lifetime at least) family friends of my parents were in town over the holidays and we all got together at my parent's house. We ordered Dion's pizza (so good) and chatted. The kids got presents which the were happy about, I am sure they wonder when Christmas is officially over. Here are some pictures of all of the young couples and the old couples, too.

Hayden giving Chris a tickle tickle? Gotta love that smile.

Dianne, Chris, and the kids. This was a tough picture to get. Hayden was all over the place and I couldn't get Chris' face.

Syd eating a lime. Why she does it when that is the face that she makes I have no idea.

Pam and Donna.

Pam and Donna Jr.

The Newlyweds Lindsey and Eric. So cute.

The young people!

Christmas

2009-01-02T15:05:00.004-06:00

I am aware that most are ready to put Christmas behind us, (I am myself) but I realized I didn't post many Christmas pictures other than Hayden in his suit.

We had a fab Christmas this year. My grandparents came, and we always love having them. My Uncle Brandon also brought his family, and we haven't spent Christmas with them in many years so we enjoyed that. Nicole and her fam also participated in Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with us, which was a huge deal and so much fun. We loved having another child around.

Syd and H got many gifts, needless to say. Syd's absolute fave gift was her Barbie Diamond Castle movie. She has watched it once daily since the day she got it. She got alot of dolls for someone who doesn't play with dolls all that much.

I didn't take many pictures, which is shameful. I was too busy hostessing and cooking on Christmas Eve and I don't know what my issue was Christmas Day. Thankfully Brandon took some with my camera.

H-Dub's Favorite Gift

2008-12-28T15:31:00.003-06:00

We had a very merry Christmas! It was fun filled and fairly exhausting. We all had a great time with family and friends.

I know I mentioned H-Dubya moved into a big boy bed. Most nights he would do great, but about a week ago he was up and down all night. He finally slept from about 4-7 with me on the floor. Brokeback sure did put his crib right back up the next morning so that could be an additional option to threaten him with. Well, he now gets out of the crib up to 10 times before naps. Today we took turns fighting him on it from 12:30 to 3:15. I finally stripped him down and rubbed his back and arms till he went to sleep. We would go so far as to swat him and he would bawl and cry, then wait for us to leave and get up. Soooo exhausting. He finally fell asleep in his big boy bed, which we will give him the option to sleep in again tonight since Brokeback is scared he will hurt himself crawling out of the crib.

Anywho, here is a pic of H-Dubya in his favorite gift. We have hidden it for now, but will allow him to wear it to Gigi and Poppy's tonight. Brokeback and I were given a gift certificate from Ray and Pat, and he is an eager beaver to use it as he hasn't been there, or out to eat period in a very long time.

Both kids got a ton of stuff this year. Other favorite gifts include his Geo Track which is a remote controlled train, though he enjoys tearing up the tracks, and his Woody doll.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-23T16:54:00.001-06:00

Here is the Christmas card we sent out this year. Hope you have a very Merry Christmas!

The Polar Express!

2008-12-21T11:57:00.002-06:00

I am sure if you are from or live in Lubbock you have heard about this over and over. We went Friday as a big family. Gigi and Poppy, Granny and Aunt Morgan all enjoyed the fun. And it was a ton of fun! Both of my kids LOVED it, and we were on a really nice car with tables where we faced each other so we couldn't have been happier. H-Dubya was restless at first but once the train took off her began to bounce and loudly and manically laugh. Syd enjoyed having Racee and Brentley there with us.

We brought the book to read along with, but were too excited to bother. Syd enjoyed the dancing, Santa, and elves most.

We definitely recommend it! We plan on going again next year, though probably just as a foursome.

Here are many pictures.

The Christmas Parties

2008-12-21T09:53:00.005-06:00

When we arrived Brokeback went on down to H-Dub's room then came back saying the lights were out and no one was there. Went back one minute later and the teachers had turned the lights out to signify clean up time, and H had seen his father look in the window then look away. So when we returned he was sitting in the middle of the floor sobbing and red-faced. Got off to such a great start. After that Hayden would never sit in his chair with his friends, he had to sit in Ron's lap. They enjoyed some food and exchanged presents. H-Dub got a too cute farm puzzle. He then went on down to Syd's party where he enjoyed playing in the kitchen.

Syd decorated an ornament and did some eating of her own. She got a cute Mickey Mouse Clubhouse puzzle that we have put together only once so far.

The cookies were pretty darn good! We have one left I am holding onto.

Current Obsessions

2008-12-17T18:07:00.003-06:00

Tulle ribbon. And wrapping paper from Holiday Happening. My mother bought me both and I. LOVE. IT. The tulle is so easy to work with. I have already run out, though. I would recommend buying two rolls. The paper is so thick and wonderful. I used it to wrap a present for my girls' Christmas get together last weekend and the gal who opened the present (H.C.) didn't rip the paper. It just comes off that way, she said. So pretty.

Hobby Lobby Christmas decorations. I have been there once a week (at least) for a month. I can't go back. I love their stuff because I can afford it and there are so many options.

The Shack. Have you read it? It is so good. I learned so much. I read a book a week usually and it took me 3 weeks to finish The Shack. I borrowed it from the pastor's wife, and he had already gone through and underlined the parts he felt were important, so it was like having my own little Cliff Note version in the book. He also had question marks on some parts which made me so happy because alot of it was over my head. Has anyone else read it?

Christmas music on the cable tv. I listen to it while I have my internet time.

Dion's pizza with green chilies. Oh. Mercy. It so good. You have to go pick it up but it is so worth it. And it is just a few blocks from our house.

Knitting. I am back at it. FINALLY finished a blanket and I am now working on a scarf for Syd. It may not be too cute but I love to knit and watch movies that I DVR'd every night lately. I also enjoy a fire but our is the gas logs and while we plan on having it going on Christmas Eve it is like throwing dollar bills into the fireplace so I don't get to enjoy it often.

STEPHANIE MEYER. She is the author of Twilight series and The Host. The books are so good. So good. I am eagerly anticipating the sequel to The Host but she hasn't posted when it will be out on her website. If anyone has any inside info on this please comment. I also enjoyed the Twilight movie. Sure there were times when my sister, Heather, Whitney and I cringed and gave nervous laughter because the acting was so embarrassing (Jasper anyone?) but I am looking forward to the next book to come out.

Paperbackswap.com I have mentioned this before, I know. But it is such an amazing site. I just wish Brokeback and I had thought of it first. I was able to order the best book on twin pregnancy for TWO of my friends that are having twins in June, and they shipped directly to the friend who lives in Dallas, Conversation Peace which is the first book we are doing for our bible study in January, AND a book about toddlers who talk late that had really high reviews. And I still have 3 credits left over!!! You can also have a wait list, mine is up to 70 books now and there aren't many things I enjoy more than one of my books coming up! What a fun surprise!

That is all for now, other then those cutie oranges. My whole family loves them. We consume at least 3 a day. Yum.

Lollipop Cookies

2008-12-17T17:40:00.006-06:00

I signed up to bring cookies to H-Dub's Christmas party tomorrow. I found this recipe and decided that the kids would love them. It was a family affair. The dough wasn't difficult but getting the paste mixed into the dough wasn't easy so that was where Brokeback came in. Syd helped make balls and pushed in the sticks. She loved every minute of working with the colored dough and wanted to help with the rolling up and everything. We we will definitely make these again. She asked is we could make more tomorrow. H-Dub came in afterward and picked one up, and said, "Cookie. For me. Hayden." I told him that they were for his friends at school and he didn't respond but he put the cookie down, thank goodness, and looked with his eyes.

I am one short. I am so praying that someone is absent in one of the classes (I made some for Syd's class too, of course). Otherwise I don't know what we will do. There is also one with only 3 colors. We ran out of red there at the end.

We are also giving each child an ABC Coloring Book. Another blogger I know drew them herself. I bought one then made copies and had them bound. This is my first time to give a gift to each child. Last year Syd participated in the gift exchange and that was it. But every other child brought an additional something for everyone in the class, and since we are with the same kids this year I succumbed to the pressure. And had a fine time doing it!

We both look haggard, don't you think? The Christmas season will do that to a lady, believe it.

Please don't comment that it might help my appearance if I would wash my hair. I already know.

Ready to go.

The coloring book. I even printed out labels. I don't have the greatest handwriting, and it seems to slant when I am doing something free hand and important. So I decided labels were the way to go.

A Christmas Surprise

2008-12-16T20:03:00.003-06:00

We have received a few packages today. One for the kids from Ray Ray and Pat Pat, one for me from Brokeback, and then one to "The Lowes". And it said that it must be opened IMMEDIATELY because there was a living plant or animal inside.

I opened it up to find a BEAUTIFUL eucalyptus and berry wreath inside. A LIVING wreath, as it said on the box. Our entire house immediately smelled of clean, fresh eucalyptus. Ahhhhh........

Thanks so much to P-Pa Steve! It is the perfect gift and I hope it dries well so that it can be put in it's spot year after year.

Here is Brokeback and I's handy work:

Our first Orange Pomander

2008-12-16T18:19:00.003-06:00

Syd and I decided to partake in this tradition, this year. I secured the ribbon with straight pins and wrapped it around the orange like a present. Brokeback helped out with a little hot glue on top. We marked where to push in the cloves with a toothpick, but we didn't stick to it exactly. I love it hanging off of the china cabinet. I plan on letting it dry out best I can. Smells really good, but I am afraid my fingers might also smell like orange and cloves for the awhile, too.

We plan to do another tomorrow. One without ribbon and cloves just pushed in every which way. We may also do one with a heart.

Words to Parent By

2008-12-15T20:16:00.001-06:00

If I had my child to raise all over again,

I’d finger-paint more, and point the finger less.

I would do less correcting and more connecting.

I’d take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.

I would care to know less, and know to care more.

I’d take more hikes and fly more kites.

I’d stop playing serious, and seriously play.

I would run through more fields and gaze at more stars.

I’d do more hugging and less tugging.

I’d build self-esteem first, and the new house later.

I would be firm less often, and affirm much more.

I’d teach less about the love of power, and more about the power of love.

-Diane Loomans

Today

2008-12-15T20:06:00.003-06:00

Was a good day. I feel like I got things accomplished, which is ridiculously important to me.

We had a friend over this morning while his mother had a sonogram for her TWINS. I took Syd to dance and worked on a Christmas project/present in the car while I waited, and read the most dramatic and fabulous chapter in the book The Shack thus far. Chapter 15.

And then. I went in to get her and have never been so disappointed to not have my camera on me. Mrs. Karla had the girls dressed up as reindeer. They each had on antlers and sleigh bells around their ankles. They were lined up in pairs and Syd was in the front. They then had the girls inside a long piece of ribbon, and they walked around the studio to a reindeer song and their sleigh bells made a wonderful sound. The teachers were wearing elf hats. So precious I will never forget it.

We have been having nap issues. We moved H-Dub to a big boy bed as I mentioned before, and he won't stay in it during the day. So Brokeback broke out the pack n play and he sleeps in that during nap time. Syd no longer naps everyday. She will be in 4 in January but I still don't appreciate it. Anyway, they both napped today, and afterward they BOTH fingerpainted, and H-Dub said the colors just to please me extra special.

Syd then did watercolor painting and we did this craft. Turned out pretty darn cute, though I didn't use pinking shears. I had to trace three different sized circles due to my cutting deficit. Syd also practiced cutting and she is becoming quite good. Tomorrow we will work on following a pattern when cutting.

I have most of my Christmas shopping done which I am quite proud of. We made a garden stone for someone who will not be named this evening, and now all I need to do is gather some switches and coal for some very special family members.

Holiday Garland Show and Tell

2008-12-10T09:11:00.005-06:00

I am way into the decorating blogs lately. Part of the fun is how impressed I am with the good deals they find. The other part is admiring how neat and organized everything seems to be. One of the creative ladies had this challenge on her blog.

Here is her blog. Be sure and check out her garland. It is unbelievable.

Anywho, here are some pictures of our Christmas decorations.

This is all garland in the kitchen. On top of the cabinets.

I love this plate. I bought it while at the MOPS convention this year. You can write a message for every season and you change out the ribbons, also.

The big living room tree.

I did the best I can with what I had. Underneath a 50 inch flat screen.

My first village piece. Very special because it is the same one we bought for my mother as her first piece about 15ish years ago. My mother found it for me on craigslist.com .

Above the bar.

The "formal" dining room/area.

Adobe fireplace in the breakfast room.

Big cabinet to the right of the 50 inch plasma.

Christmas Crafts

2008-12-10T09:01:00.002-06:00

We have only done two crafts so far. We are expecting some additional crafts from Oriental Trading, which we split with some friends. And I have another craft or two up my sleeve. Of course we will let you know how it goes.

We first did a Santa beard with poster board and cotton balls. Syd really enjoyed the craft but I couldn't figure out how to get the beard to tie around her head well so it was kind of a bust.

We made ornaments by stringing beads onto pipe cleaners. I would then shape them into a candy cane, tree, etc. Syd really enjoyed this so I think we will do it again.

CHRISTMAS COOKIES!

2008-12-10T08:51:00.004-06:00

Syd loves to make Christmas cookies. I think it is her favorite Christmas time activity. This year it was a whole bunch of work. We made the dough at home, and it was really good. Then I had to let it chill, and the chilling took longer than I thought. So I told Syd we would cut the cookies out and cook them after her nap. I just left the oven on. Somehow it got to hot and locked itself up. So we had to finish up at Gigi's house. The cookies were quite good, I must say. They must have been because we had dozens and they were all gone within 3 days of putting them on the cookie plate. I blame Brokeback.

We used Royal Icing this year because it is supposed to harden well. It hardened very well within like 1 minute of Gigi and I painting it on. Which made some of the sprinkles sparse but that is okay.

H-Dub enjoyed pushing down on the cookie cutters. He actually participated! I couldn't find Syd's cute gingerbread apron and chef hat. So we went with these utilitarian denim ones, instead.

Decorating their tree

2008-12-10T08:46:00.001-06:00

Both of the kiddos got into decorating the tree this year, which was nice. They have their very own tree in the playroom. Here are some pics:\

Making Memories

2008-12-07T20:47:00.002-06:00

Make a memory with your children,
Spend some time to show you care;
Toys and trinkets can't replace those
Precious moments that you share.
Money doesn't buy real pleasure,
It doesn't matter where you live;
Children need your own attention,
Something only you can give.
Childhood's days pass all too quickly,
Happy memories all too few;
Plan to do that special something,
Take the time to go or do.
Make a memory with your children,
Take the time in busy days;
Have some fun while they are growing,
Show your love in gentle ways.

Elaine Hardt, 1977

Syd's First Tech Game

2008-11-30T10:25:00.006-06:00

Yesterday was Syd's first Tech football game. She had a great time, and was very well behaved. She did alot of eating, as did her father and mother. She had M&M's, Teddy Grahams, peanut butter crackers, popcorn, pizza, two cokes and a box of apple juice. She showed a whole bunch of spirit and we were awful proud.

We hope to take H-Dub to his first game next year. He spent a fun day with Aunt Morgan. They went out to dinner at Whataburger and everything. He was in a very good mood during and afterward. The poor child really needed some one on one attention, apparently, and has been in a better mood since.

With her ticket and her guns up before we went into the game.

All dressed up in her cheerleader uniform and H-Dubya's coat. Little short in the sleeves but it matched!

Get your guns up! Doesn't Gigi look comfy?

Loved sitting on Poppy's shoulders.

Syd spent alot of time looking in the binoculars.

The fam.

Sydney and Dimple Jane. The times they had together. DJ's brother Dubya, was also there. He was about 5 or 6. He tried so hard to get their attention, until DJ pushed him and he fell down onto the next row of bleachers. He was real ticked. Got up and smacked poor Dimple a few times. She wasn't the same after that. Boohooed and wanted her daddy to hold her.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-30T10:13:00.005-06:00

We had a yummy Thanksgiving at Gigi's again this year. Going on year four. Granny and Aunt Missy were the other guests. Here are some pics that were taken with Aunt Missy's camera. I didn't even bother to bring mine. I contributed sodium filled green bean casserole, a new cheese dip with french bread, found the recipe on the internets, and sausage balls. I plan to make more sausage balls today for us to enjoy as we decorate the kids' tree and take pictures of them all dolled up for our Christmas card.

Syd looking darling and Daddy looking crazy at the table.

Poor, sad, sick H-Dubya. He was woken from his nap to go to Gigi's, and as I mentioned he also has a cough, terrible congestion, and some sort of rash on his face. Miserable. In further pictures if he looks extra pale it is because I put Desitin on his face to try and help with the rash. Didn't do much for it.

Resting after the large T dinner.

Playing with Trixie and Granny.

Aunt Missy, Granny, and Gigi lookin' loverly.

10 Random Thoughts

2008-11-30T08:54:00.004-06:00

I will be posting about Syd's first Tech game later on today. I must download them, first, but know that I will be back with tales of she and her BFF from the game, Dimple Jane. That's right. Too clever of a name to make up, this was the precious child's given name. On to the thoughts:

1. I am beyond angry that we have somehow lost all but four sippy cups in the house, and they are very expensive to replace. I am going to check ebay.

2. If you want to put your daughter's hair in ponytails, braids, or updos of any kind, your best bet is to get it soaking wet with a spray bottle, first. This goes for hair of all lengths and textures.

3. Deep, plot driven Christian fiction is VERY hard to find.

4. The groceries are too expensive, and/or I am too poor to currently afford organic milk and produce. I can remedy the produce with a citrus wash I bought last year, But there is nothing I can do about the milk. $6.50 a GALLON?

5. Hayden has a cough and rash on both sides of his mouth and I will have to take him to the doctor. Prayers that we can get in on a Monday!

6. After putting up my Christmas decorations I have decided I need more. Hobby Lobby anyone?

7. I am working through OU beating OSU last night and the fact that we will indeed NOT be going to a BCS Bowl. Sadness. Disappointment.

8. I have let the laundry pile up, yet again. I have a system where I do a load a day or two every other day so I can't get too far behind. Once every couple to three months I fall down on the system. And chaos ensues. I have always been this way about laundry. Ask my old roomates. Anywho, it will take me all day to get it done, I am sure. I can't see the bottom of my closet.

9. Christmas shopping online is a really good thing.

10. What can I cook for an early dinner tonight?

Kiva

2008-11-24T11:28:00.002-06:00

I read about this organization on another blog. I think it is amazing.

We are all in a pinch financially. The stores are feeling it, but the poor will feel it, also. Many don't feel comfortable giving to others without knowing about their situation. Kiva is a microlending organization that funds entrepenuers who are considered poverty stricken all over the world! For example, a group of women from the Congo opened a restaurant a couple of years ago. They want to upgrdade to electrical appliances so they won't have to use coal hotplates, etc. They are asking for a $2000 loan, which they plan to pay back in 3 months. The default rates on every loan I have seen is 0%. The deliquency rate is like .18%. Once they pay back their loan you get to give that money to another entreprenuer of your choice. Genius!

What a wonderful thing to do for Christmas! I know several families who don't give to eachother (adults) and instead pool their money and give to entreprenuer on this site, or they buy a flock of chicks (this costs $20 and gives enough eggs and future hens to eat for years to come, people) or a cow for those in third world countries through Heifer International .

I find that the older my parents, in-laws, grandparents get, the less they want to acquire. This could be a great way to use that money to help someone who truly needs it!

GO TECH!

2008-11-22T11:29:00.003-06:00

Mercy, I am so nervous about tonight's game. It is all I can think about. We have just got to win. Got to got to. I believe we will!

I am going to the Twilight movie at 3 so that will keep my mind off the game for a little while. Then I will help Gigi work on our Frito pies for the game. We are having the fam over to watch.

Pray for your Red Raiders! You know where my family will be tonight at 7:00!

Handprint Turkey

2008-11-21T11:05:00.004-06:00

We did the cutest craft yesterday. The kids so enjoyed doing their handprint, even H-Dub who asked to do it again on another piece of paper. Such a big boy. He has started saying bless you every time I sneeze and is consistently using his thank yous and your welcomes. Anywho, here are some pictures from the craft.

Hayden working on handprints.

Sydney gluing some of her turkey parts on. Cutting the parts out was the most time consuming part.

So proud of her gobble gobble turkey.

I forced H to sit and display his turkey with his sister. He didn't appreciate it. You know he aims to please.

I also planned on doing these handprint turkeys, but they did them at school and brought them home as a surprise. Aren't they darling?

Big Lots!

2008-11-21T10:28:00.002-06:00

I went to Big Lots on 82nd and Indiana yesterday. I was looking for manilla envelopes. They didn't have any but other deals abounded! I don't get to shop and browse as much as I would like due to my two little ones.

They had Dyson Animal vacuums on sale for $249! You are not going to find a better deal on those. I have had mine for over 4 years and it is the best.

I got the kids each a tub book for their stocking, Wall E for H-Dub and Disney Princesses for Syd. They were $2.50 each! And I got a princess chapstick with a large purple jewel hot glued to the top for $1.00! They had the Little People Princess Carriage for like $16.99, and a good amount of Disney Princess stuff that was probably $3 to $5 cheaper than what I have seen at Walmart!

You might want to check it out.

www.paperbackswap.com

2008-11-20T19:52:00.004-06:00

I'd like to talk about paperbackswap.com . While talking to my pastor's wife who seemingly likes to read as much as I do, I discovered that many folks don't know about this tremendous website. I have reportedly saved close to $100 on books from using it.

You create an account for the site and put all of the books (paperback or not) onto the site. It is quite easy as you can just type in the 10 digit ISBN number on the back of the book. You get two free credits for joining and adding books. So you can immediately browse and request books.

You need to put money into your account, which you can do through PayPal. As someone requests a book from you, you go and print out the postage label for the book which includes the address of where it is being sent, etc. All books are sent media mail, which is going to cost you about $2.40. Maybe less, maybe more. If you use their service you get instant credit, which I think is worth the extra 13 cents. You may disagree. You then wrap the book in wrapping paper, wrap it in the two pieces of paper from the printer, or put it into a manilla envelope and pop it into the mailbox. It is that easy.

They have tons of titles. Over 2 million, I do believe. I of course have a wish list of 46ish books that I am fervently waiting on to come available. Many of them are nonfiction and not the kind of book you let go of unless you get past your current stage or "season" in life, as we like to say repeatedly at Live Oak, which is why I think it is taking so long.

Anyway, I spend tons of time browsing the books and compiling my wish list. If you like to read and you live in Lubbock, whose library collection is in my opinion sub-par, this may be a great thing for you. Happy Reading!

Love you too-oo.

2008-11-19T18:10:00.003-06:00

H-Dub is having a growth spurt. He is never the best eater, partly because he is too busy drinking as much milk as he can get us to pour in his sippy cup throughout the day. For the last few days, though, he has been eating full meals. He ate a whole roll of ritz crackers today after nap. Ron ordered pizza for dinner and we knew he wouldn't eat much. Wrong. He is running around with whole pieces hanging out of his mouth.

He was running around eating and I said, "I love you, Hayden." And he actually answered, "I love you, too-oo," in a high pitched voice on the too. We wanted to see if it was a fluke so Brokeback asked next and he got the same response. Awwww. What a sweetie.

Visit With Santa

2008-11-19T08:44:00.005-06:00

I hadn't posted these pics because when I did so on Facebook our early visit with Santa was met with a bit of grumbling and irritation that Santa was out and about before Veterans Day. We went to Holland Gardens for their Christmas Open House, and there he was. So of course we wanted to say hello and sit on his lap. Syd was thrilled and quite comfortable, H-Dub was not so sure. Here are some pictures commemorating the event:

Waiting in line, wondering what in the Sam Hill's going on.

Waiting patiently with an angelic look on her face so that Santa can see just what a good girl she really is.

Still waiting. We waited a terribly long time. There was a family of 4 unruly children in front of us. We enjoyed watching them at first, one of them was a 10 yr old girl who would elbow her mother violently in the ribs when she tried to correct her. Then they started taking pictures, with their cell phones, and took way to long so we didn't enjoy them so much after that.

H-Dub picks his nose when he is nervous. And blinks but you can't tell in this picture.

Egads. Not sure about this Santa person anymore. Syd however seems quite thrilled.

Thanksgiving Feast!

2008-11-19T08:32:00.004-06:00

Syd greatly enjoyed performing for the parents of her Mother's Day Out program yesterday. The fact that Brokeback and I got there early and scored the bestest, frontest table in the joint helped, I am sure. I was a little startled by her level of decorum at times. I can understand the vibrating with glee and waving, but putting her fingers into the sides of her mouth and pulling to make a funny face was too much, and something we discussed afterward. What can I do? The last time we had this discussion and I took her into a restaurant bathroom for a beating due to her outlandish behavior, she cried and told me, "But I just want to make people laugh." Where, oh where, does she get that kind of attitude? We won't even go INTO how short her dress was though I ordered a 5T.

H-Dub and Syd were both spoiled as Gigi brought them lunch from Sonic for the event. H-Dub didn't behave in a grateful way, as he was crawling around on the floor, threatening to go onto the stage and hiding under the table. Not good.

Here are some pics. I didn't include any of myself because I am in the very end stages of a fever blister AND my roots are terrible.

Posts to come!

2008-11-18T21:38:00.001-06:00

I am back on a roll! I will be back with pics from Syd's first live performance (I feel sure all of you are waiting with baited breath) and we actually did a thrilling Thanksgiving craft today, which even H-Dub enjoyed and participated in!

Would post now but I need my beauty rest real bad. Must go join Syd who is in there waiting for me.

Shall we dance?

2008-11-18T19:42:00.002-06:00

We rented Barbie's Diamond Castle (Syd's choice) and they love the closing credit song, and the music video by Katherin McPhee (same song). They hold hands and dance in circles, throw each other out holding one hand, and try to bend their heads back. Here are some pictures of it. Brokeback video taped it, too, but he is in the midst of upgrading the software for our camera to our new computer. Until that is done, no video.

Big Step Towards Independence!

2008-11-17T18:50:00.002-06:00

H-Dub is transitioning to a big boy bed! Gigi bought him a precious little toddler bed at a garage sale over a year ago. It has been just waiting for him. Daddy put it together last night and we put it next to his crib, with the idea that if he won't stay in it we will just put him into the crib.

He took a nap in the big boy bed yesterday and was thrilled to do so. He spent the night there, also. He hasn't figured out that he can come out of the room yet, I guess, because we can hear him wandering around in there but he never comes out until we go get him. This morning he was actually still in the bed.

This afternoon he was up running around and talking to himself forever. I went in I think 3X, and finally put him in the crib. He continued to roll around in there. He then woke up right after Syd, and she fell asleep before him. I think because he heard her get up.

We hope to have him fully transitioned to the bed by next week and Daddy will take down the crib.

The next transition will be after Christmas, hopefully. We will then get Syd a full bed and she and H-Dub can sleep in there together. She has decided she doesn't like sleeping alone and asks to sleep with us EVERY. NIGHT. This way she will have her own partner and we will have two to a bed instead of three!

Unmotivated

2008-11-16T20:11:00.004-06:00

I have nothing to blog about, hence the extended break. I am going through some changes and trying to get somethings taken care of, which has lead to some sort of funk. I have FIVE unread books on my nightstand. Can't get into any of them, much. I have a file full of Thanksgiving (mainly turkey) crafts to do with Syd and H-Dub. We have done none of them so far. We (and when I say we, I mean me) have stalled on lesson 7 of the reading program I have been working on with Syd. Sigh. My house goes from decent to God-forbid a visitor drop in within a day. I haven't full-out cooked a meal for my family short of frozen pizza or hot dogs in at least a week. Though I went on a major shopping run on Thursday.

I HATE being unmotivated. Nothing can make me self-loathe more than unmotivated living on my part. I mean, sure, I would go through burn-out after TAKS or finals and semester end projects in college, but I am not sure where this level of confusion is coming from.

I plan on watching Desperate Housewives now, catching up on the two chapters of my bible study book that I have not finished though I have had FOUR WEEKS to do so, and making plans for the next two weeks. Day by day expectations (much like lesson plans, can't help it) will be written out on a calendar so that I can't allow this attitude/behavior to continue! I will be going to bed early. I plan on having some sort of relevant post in the morning! I am going to go watch me some Where the Hell is Matt to cheer myself up.

Thank a Veteran

2008-11-11T09:25:00.002-06:00

It is Veteran's Day! Our American Flag is proudly flying outside the house. Of course, we have our very own Veteran of the first Gulf War here in our house. I personally thanked him for his sacrifice for our country. For fighting for the rights of our citizens, and for fighting for the rights of citizens of other countries, also. The kids and I have big plans for a Veteran's Day project when they get home from school. I will be sure to share pics later.

In Flanders Fields

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
— Lt.-Col. John McCrae

Where the hell is Matt?

2008-11-02T22:01:00.003-06:00

Watching this is a great way to start the week. I bet it will put a smile on your face. I love it.

*It is best to go to the youtube site so you can watch it in high quality.

Halloweens Past II

2008-11-01T07:57:00.004-05:00

Sakes alive! I just realized that I have had this blog for almost a full YEAR! Crazy how time flies. Going back to last year's Halloweens Past post proves it. This will be a yearly tradition as long as I can keep up with the blog.

Here are some pictures from the Halloweens the kids have celebrated in the past. Thought it would be fun to look back.

Syd was a jaguar for her first Halloween. She was about 9 months old. Nana and Paw Paw sent the costume before she was ever born! It was so cute and made a growling noise when the nose was squeezed.

H was only 2 months old on his first Halloween so he wore a comfy pumpkin suit. Syd was Nemo.

Syd was too proud of her Nemo suit! Wanted everyone to see a full body shot with the tail.

Halloween 2007 they were Cinderella and Yoda. Syd was going to be Princess Leia but the costume I ordered was too small. We let her decide what to be instead and Cinderella was no surprise.

A few days after Halloween LAST YEAR Syd decided she wanted to by a kitty. And she NEVER wavered. So a kitty she was, and H-Dub was a mouse. Syd desperately wanted him to be a puppy but I couldn't find a costume that fit. So a mouse he was. Syd has already decided that she wants to be Ariel, the Little Mermaid next year. We shall see if she stick to it this time.

Halloween Night

2008-11-01T07:39:00.004-05:00

Holidays are such lengthy celebrations these days. We have been celebrating Halloween for over a week! If you count all of the crafts it has been closer to a month. This is all my choice, of course, but I must say by the time it is all over I am not sad to see the holiday go!

We had a big night. Went to see Granny at her retirement home. Trick or Treated at 3 places total. Went to our 4th annual Halloween party at the Roark's which is always so much fun. Went to our church's Fall Festival after that. It was all so fun, but I guess between the heat in his flannel costume, the large quantities of candy he ate (for him) and all of the over stimulation was too much for H-Dubya. When we left the Roark's he had a rather large meltdown. Brokeback was sweet enough to go on home with him so that Syd and I could enjoy the festival to the fullest. Gigi went with. Brokeback says after H-Dub got his costume off and was wiped down and enjoyed some milk, he was in a much better mood and went right to bed at 7:30ish without a hitch. Here are some pictures:

Sydney, Daddy, and baby Tess.

The kids and Tinkerbell enjoying the toys at Mia and DaDon's.

Sydney's moment in the spotlight, singing Itsy Bitsy Spider on kareoke.

The whole group. Wow, my group of friends have had a bunch a kids. With more to come.

Beat. Ready to call it a night.

Loves O' My Life

2008-10-31T22:31:00.002-05:00

Pumpkin Carving

2008-10-31T21:23:00.007-05:00

There are SO many fantastic pictures of our first family pumpkin carving experience that I also sent them out on snapfish. They were taken by the superb Dubya Green. She came with my sister for fun, but she ended up taking pictures AND being conned into carving one of the pumpkins. The winking pumpkin, in fact. Here are some of my faves. We had a great time, even salting and roasting the seeds like my mama used to do. I now know why pumpkin carving is a tradition for so many families.

Watching intently...

So interesting.

The photographer at work.

Halloween 2008

Glowing in the night.

Gimmie kiss goodbye Gigi.

I love you.

Tricycle Parade

2008-10-31T09:00:00.006-05:00

The kids had the tricycle "parade" today at school. They LOVED it! Especially H-Dubya. Syd rode a tricycle and H-Dub rode a little fire engine around. His teacher said that he insisted on riding it all the way to the gym, then once he got there he jumped off and ran around the entire time. You can see the glee in his face. There was some dancing, and running in the same straight line again and again going on. It was a big day. Tonight we will close out Halloween with a bang. Here are some pics of the parade:

H-Dub's Great Day

2008-10-28T15:56:00.002-05:00

H-Dub hasn't cried at school since the last time I posted about his big boy behavior. We are so proud of him.

The teacher told me today that he had a great day, even participating in the craft, which as we all know he never does at home. She said she made noises the whole time they did it as worked, sound effects if you will. She was so proud of him. What a sweet woman. He still refuses to eat lunch and all I send is cheese and crackers or some fruit with milk.

Halloween Sneak Peek

2008-10-28T14:59:00.004-05:00

We went to a carnival at my old elementary school that is a block from my mama's house on Friday. Syd brought a friend and we had a great time. Syd and her friend were very well behaved. H-Dub was a little too excited, and wore me out. My mother and I took them. Here are some pics Brokeback took before the carnival of our little cat and mouse.

Mini Chocolate Cake

2008-10-23T13:13:00.003-05:00

This recipe was emailed to me by my Aunt DinaBee, who I think got it from my Aunt Missy. It looked quite fun so Syd and I tried it out after nap yesterday. It was so very good.

Recipe:

MINUTE CHOCOLATE MUG CAKE

1 Coffee Mug
4 tablespoons flour (that's plain flour, not self-rising)
4 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons baking cocoa
1 egg
3 tablespoons milk
3 tablespoons oil
3 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional)This wasn't optional in my opinion. It made the cake!
Small splash of vanilla We were out so we didn't use vanilla and it was still great.

Add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well. Add the egg and mix thoroughly.
Pour in the milk and oil and mix well.
Add the chocolate chips (if using) and vanilla, and mix again.
Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes. The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed!
Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired.

EAT! (this can serve 2 if you want to share!)

The ingredients.

Mix it on up.

I know it doesn't look pretty. But it was really good. Really.

Syd enjoying the fruits of her labor.

The Fabulous Visit

2008-10-23T12:58:00.002-05:00

One of my life long best buddies came from New York a few weeks ago. I am just now downloading the pics off the camera. The lack of good ones is unforgivable. There somehow aren't any of the precious baby boy, but there are some of his sister. Syd quite enjoyed having Ms. A around. She was disappointed that A couldn't spend the night with her every night, but due to some large hairy cats and and a serious cat hair allergy that wasn't going to happen.

We had a fabulous time. So much fun. Now it is my turn for a visit. I will start watching for specials and Syd and I will make her first trip to NYC!!

Dance Gallery Watch Day

2008-10-23T12:43:00.005-05:00

I have to admit I didn't attend watch day. Brokeback did, and he took all the pics his very own self. H-Dubya and I went to a little Halloween themed meet and greet for my friend Kari's precious and beautiful baby boy. They live on the Texas coast and I had not had a chance to meet him so that took priority. It helps that there is a watch day every month. Brokeback said that when Syd chooses to really pay attention and focus she is at the top of the class! Here are some pics of Syd in action. All comments are just my speculation because, again, I was not in attendance.

Stretching it out.

Really giving 100%. Does it bother anyone else that the other girls seem to be doing something different?

"This is my left foot, this is my left foot..."

Finally doing what everyone else is.

Spider Craft

2008-10-22T11:24:00.003-05:00

I think this is the cutest thing! I was quite pumped about it today when I found out we weren't going to set up for MOPS this morning and we are spending the FULL day at home! I would love to go for a walk later but the West Texas winds are in full force so that might not be an option. I saw this craft here:

http://blissfullydomestic.com/blissful-kids/hanging-spider-treat-pocket/

Hayden wasn't interested. Shocker. Syd was, but not as much as usual. We are going on the West Texas Polar Express in December, like every other family in town. We are already talking about it, and Gigi brought the movie by last night and enjoyed some of my homemade chicken and dumplings. Does it count as homemade if you used refrigerated biscuits for the dough? I think so. Anywho, we watched it last night, Syd asked to watch it again this morning and refused to craft until it was over. Then while we were enjoying the music that is on the credits in automatically went to play again. So they are sitting through round 2. I can't believe how still they are while it is on.

Back to the craft:

100 Classic Novels

2008-10-18T18:11:00.005-05:00

Edited to 16. How did I skip the Lovely Bones.
*Edited to 20 on 7/6/09. Considering I read a book a week I have not focused on this list as much as possible. If I still want to read 15 more I better get with it. Only 4ish months to go and I start a new job in August.

So here is a list of 100 of the greatest novels of all time. Notice I didn't say THE greatest I said 100 OF the greatest. I plan on digging right in. I bolded the ones I have read and actually remember. Supposedly the average American has read 6 of the 100. I am proud and happy to ring in with 15. I hope to have read 15 more of them by the end of the year. I read about a book a week, but I read religious books, popcorn fiction, books on parenting, etc. also so I don't know that I will get in more than 15. Let me know how many you have read.

1 Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen
2 The Lord of the Rings - JRR Tolkien
3 Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte
4 Harry Potter series - JK Rowling
5 To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
6 The Bible
7 Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte
8 nineteen eighty four- george orwell
9 His Dark Materials - Philip Pullman
10 Great Expectations - Charles Dickens
11 Little Women - Louisa M Alcott
12 Tess of the D’Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy
13 Catch 22 - Joseph Heller
14 Complete Works of Shakespeare
15 Rebecca - Daphne Du Maurier
16 The Hobbit - JRR Tolkien
17 Birdsong - Sebastian Faulks
18 Catcher in the Rye - JD Salinger
19 The Time Traveler’s Wife - Audrey Niffenegger
20 Middlemarch - George Eliot
21 Gone With The Wind - Margaret Mitchell
22 The Great Gatsby - F Scott Fitzgerald
23 Bleak House - Charles Dickens
24 War and Peace - Leo Tolstoy
25 The Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy - Douglas Adams
26 Brideshead Revisited - Evelyn Waugh
27 Crime and Punishment - Fyodor Dostoyevsky
28 Grapes of Wrath - John Steinbeck
29 Alice in Wonderland - Lewis Carroll
30 The Wind in the Willows - Kenneth Grahame
31 Anna Karenina - Leo Tolstoy
32 David Copperfield - Charles Dickens
33 Chronicles of Narnia- CS Lewis
34 Emma - Jane Austen
35 Pweauaion- Jane Austen
36 The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe- CS Lewis
37 The Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini
38Captain Corelli’s Mandolin - Louis De Bernieres
39 Memoris of a Geisha- Arthur Golden
40 Winnie the Pooh - AA Milne
41 Animal Farm- George Orwell
42 The Da Vinci Code- Dan Brown
43 One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
44 A Prayer for Owen Meany - John Irving
45 The Woman in White - Wilkie Collins
46 Anne of Green Gables - LM Montgomery
47 Far From The Madding Crowd - Thomas Hardy
48 The Handmaid’s Tale - Margaret Atwood
49 Lord of the Flies- William Golding
50 Atonement - Ian McEwan
51 Life of Pi- Yann Martel
52 Dune - Frank Herbert
53 Cold Comfort Farm - Stella Gibbons
54 Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen
55 A Suitable Boy - Vikram Seth
56 The Shadow of the Wind - Carlos Ruiz Zafon
57 A Tale Of Two Cities - Charles Dickens
58 Brave New World- Aldous Huxley
59 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time - Mark Haddon
60 Love In The Time Of Cholera - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
61 Of Mice and Men - John Steinbeck
62 Lolita - Vladimir Nabokov
63 The Secret History - Donna Tartt
64 The Lovely Bones- Alice Sebold
65 Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas
66 On The Road - Jack Kerouac
67 Jude the Obscure - Thomas Hardy
68 Bridget Jones’s Diary - Helen Fielding
69 Midnight’s Children - Salman Rushdie
70 Moby Dick - Herman Melville
71 Oliver Twist - Charles Dickens
72 Dracula - Bram Stoker
73 The Secret Garden - Frances Hodgson Burnett
74 Notes From A Small Island - Bill Bryson
75 Ulysses - James Joyce
76 The Bell Jar - Sylvia Plath
77 Swallows and Amazons - Arthur Ransome
78 Germinal - Emile Zola
79 Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray
80 Possession - AS Byatt
81 A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens
82 Cloud Atlas - David Mitchell
83 The Color Purple - Alice Walker
84 The Remains of the Day - Kazuo Ishiguro
85 Madame Bovary - Gustave Flaubert
86 A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry
87 Charlotte’s Web - EB White
88 The Five People You Meet In Heaven - Mitch Albom
89 Adventures of Sherlock Holmes - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
90 The Faraway Tree Collection
91 Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad
92 The Little Prince - Antoine De Saint-Exupery
93 The Wasp Factory - Iain Banks
94 Watership Down - Richard Adams
95 A Confederacy of Dunces - John Kennedy Toole
96 A Town Like Alice - Nevil Shute
97 The Three Musketeers - Alexandre Dumas
98 Hamlet - William Shakespeare
99 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Roald Dahl
100 Les Miserables - Victor Hugo

Sad Story

2008-10-18T11:24:00.003-05:00

Does anyone remember this post? Where I mentioned Syd's special squirrel that lived with us and her other squirrely partners for a year?

I forgot to mention that about a month ago I went to lunch with friends and on my way out the door I saw Suzy dead in front of our tree. As in really dead. As in rigor mortis had set in. Thankfully the kids were at Mother's Day Out and Brokeback rushed right out and took care of her. Don't know if he buried her, put her in a garbage bag and threw her in the dumpster or what. I don't want to know.

Syd is continuously disappointed in the lack of squirrel friends as of late. She asks Brokeback about Suzy often. He just tells her the squirrels will come back as it gets colder. I hope he is right and it isn't just a random answer he made up.

All Hallow's Eve

2008-10-17T17:01:00.005-05:00

How cute is this! Read the book All Hallow's Eve to your kids before Halloween (a few times is better, of course). It is about Eve the fairy who has her birthday on Halloween. Her favorite thing is candy, so she ends up going to houses of children the night of Halloween and trading their candy for a toy! Such a cute story. You can buy the book on Amazon and read it to your kids every year OR you can have it read to you online here . The book also says why you dress up, why you trick or treat, etc.

This is a great way not to over do on candy consumption, as long as the "fairy" doesn't eat it all themselves, and this way the kids won't go overboard on HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP and PROCESSED SUGAR!!

Enjoy!

Punkin Day at School

2008-10-15T15:24:00.004-05:00

It has been awhile. My bestest buddy was in town for a few nights with her two kids, and we had a great time. It took me a full day to recover, and then I had some weekend plans and this week has been a busy one. I wanted to get these posted. They were taken by Sydney's teacher Holly.

Hayden's class picture. Why is he the only child who won't sit down?

Syd's class.

How cute is this? What a perfect photo-op.

Brokeback told her she looks like she is hatching an egg in this one. That is the pumpkin she picked. I could barely carry it to the car. She obviously feels bigger is better.

Hayden solo. He looks tired to me.

Three Cheers for H-Dub!

2008-10-07T09:24:00.006-05:00

H-Dubya didn't cry when I dropped him off at KDO this morning! Woot! I am so thrilled. Sometimes he cries as soon as we pull into the parking lot and throws a terrible fit when I leave. Today he walked in and got his milk, sat down to color, and I left. I hope this isn't a one time thing!!

Sunday Craft Day

2008-10-07T09:24:00.001-05:00

I was out of town for a couple of days so Syd expected a large amount of attention. I gave her a pedicure, read her the new book I brought her I'd say, six times, made a chain to count down the days til Halloween, made brownies, etc. etc. We stayed in our pajamas all day due to the rain and just had a great time.

Here is the first craft, which H-Dubya refused to participate in, even though it involved paint. I got it off this blog . It is made off of her foot and palm prints and finger prints. So cute.

We then did this craft, from notimeforflashcards.com . I think it turned out very well, though I think I enjoyed it more than she did.

MOPS Convention

2008-10-06T09:23:00.001-05:00

I went to the MOPS convention in Dallas this weekend. It was great fun. I went with my two church besties.

We had a false start, when I went to pick up M Brokeback called and said H-Dubya's teacher called to say that the stitch or loop in his tear duct was COMING OUT! So we rushed to meet Brokeback at school, picked up both the kids and went to the doctor. The dr. pulled it out and cut it. The issue is he somehow popped the stitch in his nose. His nose bled a little bit the day after the surgery, so it most likely popped then. So now the chance of the tear duct surgery working is only 50-50. Brokeback nor I are up for doing it again, so please pray that it works.

We booked a room at the Gaylord Texan with two double beds in April. There were 4,000 women at the conference. I personally met a woman from Alaska, there were also women from Japan and Switzerland. We got there around 7 and ALL the double bed rooms had been taken since 5. So, the three of us enjoyed sleeping in a king together. We would have felt more sorry for ourselves if we didn't witness the arrival of about 8 women who drove their church van down from Washington State get put into two rooms with king beds, also. They were totally out of roll out beds, so I assume someone was sleeping on the floor. So disappointing. The next day they comped us half the room and got us the same rate at the Wolf Lodge across the street. Talk about a family hotel! That place is awesome. But that is a post for another day.

I learned a TON from the seminars and did a great deal of shopping in the HUGE shopping area. My mind is swimming with all of the information and how I can put it into process in our daily lives.

We went to a general session that lasted about 2 hours every day. They were great. Here is how far we always were from the stage because we refused to ever get there early:

We got to see great Christian singers like Plum and Jacie Velasquez. The speakers were very inspirational. The last session we went to included an interview with this person. See the woman in the middle? Can you tell who she is?

Or now:

OR NOW??

It is LYNN SPEARS!! Mother of Brittany, Brian, and Jamie Lynn. She has recently written a book that she is promoting. I can't remember the name but I feel sure you can find it on Amazon.

I actually learned something from her interview! Lynn is a Christian woman whose children have made some poor choices, as we all have. Unfortunately it has cost them more than some. She has done the best she can as a mother, like we all do. You cannot be with your children every minute, you cannot control their every move. My kids are still very young and hold such promise. But just because they aren't old enough to make some big mistakes yet doesn't mean they never will. And I work very hard to help them live and grow as Christians and make good choices. But who knows what will happen once they are out of my house?

Ruby's New Home

2008-10-06T09:21:00.000-05:00

Brokeback can be a creative father, and he came up with the project of making a house for Ruby. They painted a beer box, cut out a door, and decorated it. Sadly, Ruby doesn't enjoy spending much time IN the house, but she definitely enjoys sitting outside of it. Sometimes Syd forces her into the box and she doesn't appreciate that one bit.

Books on tape

2008-10-05T09:52:00.002-05:00

This is Syd's new favorite activity. She got a Magic Tree House book on CD in her kid's meal from Wendy's. Didn't have a book with it or anything. She would sit on her bed and listen to the WHOLE thing. It is a short chapter book. We couldn't believe it.

Next time we were at the library we wanted to check some books with a tape or CD out, but the selection at our closest library had a sad selection. We went last week to the big library downtown and checked out about 5. Unfortunately two of the tapes have sound issues. She really enjoys the other three. It is so funny to watch, each time the chime goes off for her to turn the page she gasps and turns it as fast as she can so as not to miss anything. It isn't like she can read along at this point. So cute.

The Corn Maize

2008-10-05T09:41:00.003-05:00

I chaperoned Syd's latest and greatest field trip. We went to the corn maize. With 4 parents and 2 teachers for our group of 8 children, it wasn't too hectic. We had a fine time and I highly recommended going on out with your family. We enjoyed many a photo opportunity, an abridged version of the maze, a quick tutorial on the parts of a corn stalk, animals, a hay ride, and a ride on the cow train. I know you are hoping for pictures.

Hilarious Example of Media Bias

2008-10-05T09:15:00.002-05:00

I had to link this. Um, what? I guess Brokeback has a point about CNN.

Media Bias

H-Dub's Words

2008-09-29T10:22:00.002-05:00

So, H-Dubya is talking! More and more everyday. Not full sentences, but talking just the same. Here is a list of his words, I don't expect anyone to be overly interested in this but I want to keep the info for him so he can read all about it when he grows up.

Come on
Help! Run!
Jump this way
Come in
Milk
Please
Get me some milk
Sydney
Hayden
Gigi
Poppy
Momo
Trixie
Buzz (as in lightyear)
Ice (as in ice age)
Dance
Me
Aw, man
My turn
Light
Juice
Cookie
Down
No
Little Mermaid
Speed (as in Lightening McQueen)
Sit
Stop
Duck
Eye, ear, mouth, hand
Yellow
Red
All done

That is all I can think of for now.

South Plains Fair!

2008-09-28T08:43:00.005-05:00

We go as one big happy family to the SPF every year. The four Lowes, Poppy, Gigi, Aunt Morgan, and now that she lives here, Granny. We look at the animals, eat (of course), and ride a few rides. I say a few because we can't afford more than that. It was $16 for the four of us to ride the ferris wheel. H-Dubya wasn't as pleasant as I would have hoped. Definitely in a sour mood. When we left he wasn't strapped in the wagon and threw his large body over the side with a dramatic wail. Not so fun for Brokeback and I but a random patron or two seemed to guffaw and enjoy it. Here are some of the happier pictures:

Mimi and Poppa's Extravaganza!

2008-09-28T08:35:00.003-05:00

My grandparents have been married 60 years. And my grandmother just turned an undisclosed age. We went to OKC to celebrate and we had a great time! We ate, the kids swam, we spent time with family. We gave toasts to the happy couple. Here are some pictures from the event.

The happy couple. As Nicole says, "The hottest 80 year olds on the planet!"

Good times in the hotel.

All dressed up.

Happy.

Poppy's Birthday

2008-09-28T08:14:00.002-05:00

This was almost two months ago but I just got the pictures from Gigi. So here is the celebration picture. I made my first carrot cake from scratch that day. Too bad it didn't quite make it into the picture.

Beware of High Fructose Corn Syrup

2008-09-27T12:13:00.004-05:00

I stopped purchasing foods and snacks that include high fructose corn syrup last December. My precious and nutrition concious sister in law was in town, and we went to the grocery store together. She informed me of the dangers of it and how it contributes to obesity in children. I have checked labels since then. No more jelly unless it is low sugar and no HFCS, no more teddy grahams, only whole grain goldfish, no fruit bites, etc.

I recently read this article, which reinforced my decision.

I then looked at this and was disappointed to find out that HFCS is also hidden in other products that I still have in the house, like RITZ CRACKERS! Of course this is one of H-Dub's favorite foods. We don't eat lunchables, (the kids don't like them), but I was surprised it is in it, also. And the very worst, for Syd, HENIZ KETCHUP. I wonder if HFCS is in the whole wheat Ritz Crackers?

Peanut Butter and Apple-Bacon Sandwiches

2008-09-25T18:49:00.003-05:00

I did not take the above picture. I got it off of the Better Homes and Gardens Website. I got this recipe out of the September mag last year, and made it tonight for Brokeback and I. The snooty kids wouldn't eat them. But they are so picky lately I didn't expect them to. Sigh. Anywho, here is the recipe. Again, they are sooooo GOOD! I plan on making them for guests for lunch or dinner someday. We used one of Syd's gold apples that she picked on her field trip to the Apple Orchard today. She says she had a great time. I am sure you can all guess how I feel about not being on her FIRST field trip. Sniff.

Ingredients

* 1/4 cup peach preserves
* Dash cayenne pepper (optional)
* 8 slices whole grain bread
* 1 large yellow or green crisp apple, cored and very thinly sliced
* 8 slices applewood-smoked bacon or other bacon, crisp-cooked and drained
* 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
* 2 to 3 Tbsp. butter, softened

Directions

1. In a small bowl stir together preserves and cayenne pepper. Place 4 slices of bread on work surface; spread slices with preserves. Top with apples and bacon. Spread one side of remaining bread slices with peanut butter; place, spread side down, over apples and bacon. Spread sandwich tops with some of the butter.

2. Preheat griddle or very large skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches, buttered side down, on griddle. Carefully spread unbuttered bread with butter. Cook 2 to 3 minutes per side or until bread is golden and sandwiches are heated through. Makes 4 servings.

Early Halloween Decorations

2008-09-25T14:25:00.001-05:00

So we did some decorating yesterday. So spooky and scary. You just wouldn't believe it.

We are home!

2008-09-25T14:21:00.002-05:00

Things went well. Thanks for the prayers. H-Dub did a GREAT job! So proud of him. He is resting and has been since about noon.

I am going to get sister from MDO, now. She went on a field trip to the Apple Orchard today with her class and was so excited. I am so sad I didn't get to go. Hopefully her teacher Holly took pictures, but that probably depends on how many parents went!