Believe it or not...it's just me

Merry Christmas M&M's sing in big church

2011-12-04T22:09:00.006-05:00

well, The M&M's got to sing in big church today. They were pretty cute! I love watching these little ones and seeing how they behave in unusual circumstances. True to form, you can hear my kiddos singing. I was very proud of them, there was no tap dancing, no antics, nothing crazy... then Sam ended it with a sweet little face ha!!! Molly was very proud of herself as well, and wanted ma to give her the affirmation she needed ha!! oh, and, Molly did NOT like that another little girl was getting the attention that she so craves... she had to squawk out something to get everyone's attention as well! Poor little girl, just can't handle someone else being in the lime light!

My kids did not do very well the second service. Apparently they felt they had already done their job so why do it again?! Molly spent the entire time chewing her finger and well, either bending down or sitting on the floor-- she also enjoyed watching the girl behind her. I was impressed how she got the other molly to do a little marching with her.
Sam on the other hand, well, who can resist a pretty girl right?! I enjoyed how his sweet little friend Emily "dared" him to do a shout out, then acts all innocent and nonchalant about it... But hey, it cracked Sam, Emily and Jessica up, so I guess it was ok right?! ha

fun stuff to do for kids for Christmas

2011-11-28T13:48:00.002-05:00

****** this site is running extremely slow and will take a LONG time to get through the checkout process.*****
Today only (11/28), go here to create a personalized letter from Santa for only a penny!
Printed on decorative letterhead and presented in a North Pole stamped envelope addressed directly to your child, this letter is sure to be a special surprise for all kids young and old.
To create the letter, you’ll need to click here, enter your child's name, gender, address, 3 of their friends, a present that they are wanting, and a special message that you would like Santa to deliver (like “Keep being good and go to bed early on Christmas Eve”).
At checkout enter the promo code 41878 to get free shipping. Your final cost will be just 1¢ to have this personalized letter shipped right to your door! And you will have the option to pay through Paypal.

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Disney’s Family.com is offering a free personalized Santa video here. Just upload a picture of your kid and they can find out if they made Santa’s naughty or nice list.

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You can also make a personalized video ecard from Santa on MagicSanta.ca.

Kindergarten Thanksgiving Feast

2011-11-18T22:39:00.004-05:00

Today was the Thanksgiving Feast at school. Every year the Kindergarten classes celebrate the first Thanksgiving. They (well, all but Sam, he was sick this week) learned all week about the first Thanksgiving. They created their own place mats, necklaces, and head wear (Indian feathers and pilgrim hats) I was able to help volunteer this year so we were able to serve the food and drink and clean up. It was the cutest little sight to see 130-140 little Thanksgiving feasters marching in to enjoy their "meal" I wish I could post some of the pictures of the whole group but I did not want to show their faces without permission...

Top 10 Products You Don't Need to Buy

2011-11-12T17:52:00.001-05:00

By Whitson Gordon

Top 10 Products You Don't Need to Buy (Because You Already Have Them In Your Home)

We spend loads on all sorts of cleaning, health, and other household products at the store every week, but quite often you can get the same jobs done with less obvious products already in your house. Here are ten of our favorite household stand-ins.

In a lot of cases, it might not necessarily be cheaper to use something you already have in the house, but if you're in a bind, any of these will work well—no trip to the store required. Plus, a lot of them get the job done without harsh chemicals or other annoyances, which is a big plus.

10. Surface Cleaners

Whether you're cleaning the bathroom, the windows, or the kitchen, you probably have everything you need in your pantry. You can clean your toilet with pretty much any acidic beverage, like a can of Coke or a packet of Kool-Aid, and while you're in the bathroom you can take a grapefruit and some salt to your grimy bathtub. When it comes to the countertops in the kitchen, a bit of wine or some laundry detergent will get things squeaky clean, while some rubbing alcohol and ammonia will make the windows sparkle.

9. Itch Relief

There's no need to go grab a Benadryl stick when you get bitten by mosquitoes; you probably have a ton of different itch remedies right under your nose. Vick's VapoRub does wonders, but you could even get by with some Scotch tape, nail polish, or Alka Seltzer. If you have some meat tenderizer around, that can actually get the job done too.

8. Metal Polish

If the chrome on your car or the steel in your sink is looking a little dull or scratched, you can use one of any number of things to polish it up. Baby oil and Cola both work well on Chrome, while flour's a good choice for stainless steel. Flour plus salt and vinegar makes a good brass polish, and you can shine up that silver with baking soda or a banana peel. Incidentally, banana peels also work great for polishing shoes.

7. Bug Traps

If your house is infested with bugs, why buy traps to kill them? They're obviously visiting because you have food they want: use it to your advantage. Trap fruit flies with apple cider vinegar, or sprinkle some baby powder, chalk, or borax around those ants' favorite hangout to deter them. Alternatively, putting vegetables on your counter makes them realize you're no longer a source of the good stuff, and they'll go away.

6. Drain Uncloggers

Skip the harmful Drano, and just grab some baking soda for stubborn drain clogs. If your toilets a little backed up, some laundry detergent can do wonders. If the above products need a little help, you can get in there yourself with a cable tie or duct tape to get the pipes flowing freely again.

5. LCD Cleaner

We all know you aren't supposed to use things like Windex on an LCD screen, but that doesn't mean you need to buy a fancy screen cleaner. All you really need is a cloth and a bit of water, although a coffee filter will do the trick too if dust is the only problem. When it comes to full-on scratches, though, the best you can do is take a pencil eraser to it and hope for the best.

4. Dryer Sheets

Dryer sheets are popular, but a bottle of fabric softener will get you much further. Combined with an old towel, you can easily replace those dryer sheets with one big, reusable one, or turn it into an after-the-dryer wrinkle releaser. Alternatively, you can get the anti-static goodness from some aluminum foil, or fluff those clothes in the dryer with a tennis ball. None of this is to say dryer sheets are completely bad—after all, they do have a lot of clever household uses themselves.

3. Sticker Removers

Products like Goo Gone are pretty useful, but you can easily get by with a number of things in your kitchen. From hair dryers to vodka, vinegar, and even lighter fluid, you've got more than one way to wash away sticky residue from a surface.

2. Deodorizers

We all have to deal with funky smells every once in a while, but you can remove odors with just about anything, from the usual baking soda and charcoal to vinegar or even newspaper. And if you've got to de-stink an entire room, why make it smell like Febreeze-y chemicals when you could just throw some vanilla in the oven and make it smell like fresh baked cookies?

1. Stain Removers

Stains always seem like the end of the world, but with the right household fix, you can clean just about any stain. Vinegar works well for many stains, while shaving cream does a good job on greasier stains (as does rubbing them with chalk). Dish detergent will get rid of that occasional gasoline stain, and asprin will remove those stubborn sweat stains on your clothes. Grab some corn starch for furniture-related stains, and whatever you do for any of these, make sure you act quickly. If you've got a stain we didn't list, you can bet the database over at Stain Solutions has a recommendation, so head there for more info.

Fall Harvest meal-- kids sing with M&M's

2011-11-11T22:20:00.004-05:00

ok, so, I guess it was up to my children to add the comic relief for the night.
Molly decided that the step she was on was the perfect place to attempt some new tap dancing moves that she has created.
You can here her share with everyone "I just really like this song" during the first little pause of the first song.
In true Sam form, he decided he needed to sing just a word or 2 behind. (I am starting to think he might be doing it on purpose now just to make sure everyone knows when he is singing ha).
Apparently the mother of these children hyped them up with sugar or something prior to going on stage as neither seem to be able to just stand and sing. (or is it because Sam knew that I was unable to see him at the spot I was sitting so if he danced a little jig I was sure to have him in the video)
I did have to interrupt the taping of the 2nd song due to the fact that my daughter decided it would be a good idea to stick her cute little fingers in the electrical outlet on stage. You can also hear me telling her that she needs to keep her dress down.
I am not sure who the little boy is that is next to her, I know I am the director, but I still do not know him. BUT apparently Molly grew a strong attachment to him, as she grabs his hand and holds it throughout, then decides she needs to rub his head. Kirk told me that she also caressed his ear ever so lovingly as they were leaving (I was helping littles off the stage at that time)
It is too bad that my children are so shy and introverted! HA

1st part of second song

2nd part of 2nd song

Happy Halloween!!!

2011-11-03T23:30:00.002-04:00

Molly's first week with Sam at Kindergarten

2011-10-11T22:33:00.002-04:00

Day 2
Let me preface this by saying that Molly has not napped more than about 1 day a week in about a year, since school started she has been napping. everyday. This is very perplexing to me, but it has been really good for her, and me :) At least she stacked them up nicely.
Day 3
ok, so I said she has been napping, I did NOT say that she was super good prior to falling asleep. There are a few things that have been occurring during nap time. Like for instance as in the picture above, she, yet again opened the blind all the way. But, she was sound asleep, with several of the Elmos out and about. Another thing that she has been doing lately is remove all of her clothing (except for her undies thankfully) before she falls asleep. Who knows why? She then stuffs them behind her bed (which is really easy to get to ha)
I am not sure what she was thinking here: she found my stash of baby wipes, unwrapped the plastic covering, and then proceeded to pull out a bunch of the wipes. When I asked why she said it was because she liked wipes. huh?!Day 5
Those are minor little things though compared to this...She was opening the blind (I believe) and since I was getting smarter (so I thought) I pulled the blind string up and over the curtain rod so she could not open the blind. She has been working hard and for a long time on this one. She explained how the stacked up some of her things (Elmo and blanket) and jumped to get it. And down it came... But that did not stop her--- the curtain rod might have fallen, but that only made it easier to pull open the blind. grrr. She knew she was in trouble, she instantly did this once I came into the room and asked her what had happened.because you see, If the blanket is over her head I will never know that she is there.

Have I mentioned how incredibly good she has been lately?! Well, at least her attitude and emotions are better... This is the worse she has been, honestly

Sam's at school, what do the girls do?

2011-10-10T23:55:00.003-04:00

I knew it not only was going to be hard on me to have Sam gone, but hard on Molly as well. She loves having her brother around, she enjoys mimicking him, doing what he does, you know, pestering him. So, I just knew she would be horrible with him gone. She and I had a good time on Monday, the first day of school. It was as though a switch turned off on Molly. I have never seen her like this before. She was happy, giggly, sweet, helpful, she listened, she minded and did I say no whining, no crying at all that day? or the next? or the day after that? I have never seen this side of Molly before. This has been the best she has ever been, in her whole 3 years! Though it is sad to have Sam gone all day, it has been nice to get to know this sweet little girl!!
Joy, Surprise are the emotions here:

JOY:great happiness, pleasure
I AM so happy about this change in my sweet Molly's personality

SURPRISE: something amazing; state of amazement
I am so amazed by this new attitude I see in Molly

We did manage to do a few fun things that first week. Molly loves PINK (almost as much as she loves ELMO) and all things 'girly' so, what better to do than to paint our toenails... she LOVED it! We have since gone to toe and fingernails, and a much brighter pink! what can I say?! She has been really, really good!
We also have enjoyed going out and about and doing errands etc. Have I mentioned she is girly and a little bit 'deva-ish?'. She has rediscovered the sippy cup. Who knows why, but she has decided she needs it with her, at all times. She loves to keep her shades atop her head, her necklaces become more than just an accessory.Oh what do we have in store when she is 13?! But i do have to admit, she sure is a cute diva :)

deals around town

2011-10-10T11:42:00.001-04:00

Kids eat FREE at Chili’s on Monday, October 10th. You can get up to 2 FREE kids meals per adult entree purchase with this coupon. (They will likely release a coupon on Tuesday and Wednesday too. Make sure you have signed up for the eClub so you receive these offers in your inbox.)

The Children’s Place is offering up 20% off through October 31st… just use the coupon code D2F2011 during checkout. In addition, they are offering up FREE shipping on every purchase (no minimum and no coupon code needed!). Combine these offers with the Columbus Day Sale (with items discounted up to 75% prices!)

kindergarten--it came, it went, it is still going

2011-10-09T16:15:00.002-04:00

Wow! that last post took a little deeper turn than I had anticipated... here are some pictures of that glorious first week:
Sam got to meet his school's name sake that first morning--- I know he has no idea what that means, but it was cool to get her picture with him none the less.

I did not want the memory from Sam's first day of school to be the traditional picture of him standing outside, book bag in hand with a big goofy/cheesy grin on his face. I had seen somewhere that you are suppose to take candid shots all that morning and pick the best one as the memory. We are not morning people. We do not get going easily. We do not usually wake up early enough to have time to spare in the mornings. This being said, there were no real good "candid" opportunities. (unless us rushing around, half crazy like is good candid ) We make it all the way to school, still no candid shots, I realize this, and I know that I would not be able to live with myself if i did not have a shot of my son on his first day of school. It is close to time to start, so what do I do? What any other cool mom does who wants a non-posed, beautifully candid shot of her first child's first day of school... and sit him on the bench outside of his classroom and holler "say cheese". and that my friends is how you end up with THIS as your son's cool candid memory:

I wanted to capture it all (I am getting older you know) so that when Sam asks me about his first day I can actually remember it. So I thought i would tape his wake-up call:

if you can not see it you can go HERE

and then take a picture of what he looked like when he got home from that first day:
I had an excited jumpy little boy on video when he got home, but he has his name tag on and I did not want to display that :)

Why stop at the first day? This is before school on day 2
Before school on day 3: check out that energy at 7 am!!!

But wait... what happened? this is after school day 3... could it be? my wild and crazy boy asleep on the floor? he was so exhausted, he fell asleep with the window open, playing with his toys.poor boy, he was exhausted!!! I am so glad he gave in and just took a nap.Apparently he did not finish out the week, as I have absolutely no pictures of day 4 or 5?! Not sure what happened, I was on a role. Sorry Sam, I did have a good start though.

I blinked

2011-10-08T00:59:00.006-04:00

Whew... wow, as "they" say, be sure to enjoy them, as they are they will be gone in the blink of an eye. Let me just tell you, I have been doing everything to keep my eyes open, but it has been to no avail, I eventually had to blink and here we are... Sam's first day of KINDERGARTEN. I can not tell you the range of emotions that have occurred over the thought of my baby going away to kindergarten:
Joy, sadness, anticipation... I am sure there are more, but this is a good start.

JOY: great happiness, pleasure

I am so happy that Sam gets to be a part of this great adventure. I can not wait to hear about his fun-filled days, the excitement of meeting new people and obtaining new friends, the pleasure in seeing the light bulb turn on as he understands new ideas and concepts.

SADNESS:unhappiness, depression

I am unhappy that my sweet, innocent and naive little boy will be exposed to this cruel world, a place of unfriendly people and a different set of morals and values. (can't think that I am depressed)

ANTICIPATION: enthusiasm, anxiousness

I am anxious, though very enthusiastic about Sam entering this new phase in his life.

Sam was very excited about the idea of starting school. He has been asking to go since he turned 5 (when we told him that was the age he had to be to go to school). He was all set and ready to go until we actually went. We were able to meet his teacher (the coolest teacher in the school) and see his class room the Friday night before classes started. To say he was apprehensive is an understatement. His eyes were wide, he walked into the room slowly, he stayed very close to either Kirk or me... and then he met her... his teacher... she talked to him, on his level about things having nothing to do with school, things to get his mind off of the stressful situation and make him more at ease. He pulled up his shirt- twisting it all the way (very unusual for him) but his wonderful teacher made him feel at ease, made him relax. (didn't I say she was awesome??!!) This simple task made me feel much more at ease as well. I am handing off my precious gift to a complete stranger, now, I feel much more relieved, my baby is going to be in good hands.

All that to say, it came, the day we had been expecting for years, the day to show my little boy the world around him without the protection of his parents. We were able to take him to his classroom that first Monday morning. I was strong, I did not cry, I was a little in shock actually. The whole thing was easy and seamless. He walked right in as though he owned the place. He was confident, smiling, ready to start the day as though he had been there many times before. I gave him a hug and a kiss, he reciprocated, but was ready to have fun. without me. with his new friends, new world, new adventures. I just walked out, I knew I could not turn and look back. I knew he was going to be fine. I made it to the sidewalk, I did hold it together pretty well, only a couple of tears made their way out of my eyes. You see, I blinked. again... what will it be like when he goes off to college? Nope, he can't, therefore I will do whatever it takes to keep my eyes pried open.

what a summer...

2011-10-07T23:22:00.005-04:00

This has been one eventful summer. I apologize for not keeping up with the postings, I do hope to catch you all up on our lives over the next week. I will do my best to capture all of our hi-lights, but I can not promise that they will all be in order. It has been busy and a myriad of emotions have been felt. I am hoping to utilize them all in my posts... so stay tuned :)

Joy	Sadness
Trust	Disgust
Fear	Anger
Surprise	Anticipation
Sadness	Joy
Disgust	Trust
Anger	Fear
Anticipation	Surprise

green eggs and ham, Sam I am

2011-08-06T23:38:00.001-04:00

Sam likes Dr Seuss, much like most kids his age. He especially likes THIS one:
I know, I know, it is something about not wanting to eat things and well let's face it, it has his name on almost every page in this story.
I was trying to figure out what we were going to have for supper one night, Sam heard me ~~talking to myself~~ pondering and made a sweet little suggestion: "let's have green eggs and ham!!" Well, I did not have any ham on hand, BUT I did have stuff to make pancakes and eggs. Add a little green food coloring and wa la-- green eggs, but why stop there? So, I also added the food coloring to the pancake batter.

It was fun, I was the "cool mom" once again. But, I gotta be honest with you, green eggs, well, they are not the most appealing foods out there... I can now understand why Sam I am did not want to try them. It was fun though--- the kids loved it, especially the fact that their food was green with their names written on it. Next time I might go with a more pleasant color though :)

while I was on the phone...

2011-08-05T23:49:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago, I was on a very important phone call, it was a call that I had to make (regarding our new freezer). I told the kids I did not care what they did as long as they were really quiet. Unfortunately they listened to me...

a little too well.
they were VERY good.
VERY quiet.
VERY busy.
VERY messy...

This is the view I had when I hung up from my 45 minute (very frustrating) callI knew they were going up and down stairs a lot, I could see that they were bring down toys and lots of backpack loads of items. I did NOT realize they had dumped almost every tub of play food, stuffed animals, dress-up clothes etc out and were bringing it down. and placing it in front of the front door. I am not sure what was going on on their little minds, but I do enjoy seeing Elmo propped so nicely in the shopping cart as though in charge of the whole organized chaos.

Like I said, I saw them doing it, I watched them from the corner of my eye, BUT I did not say a word, not a peep---
they were working together.
quietly.
side by side.
only speaking in whispers.
And this is what I needed.
Until my call was over....

night night- sleep tight

2011-08-04T23:42:00.003-04:00

One of my favorite things to do at night is check in on the kids just before heading to bed myself. I love to see their sweet, peacefulness. They are so energetic and loud during the day that it is a nice change of pace to see.
I also like to see the unique positions they are in while asleep. One night they are in a ball, the next half of their body is hanging off the bed etc.
Neither of my kids fall asleep very quickly. They are usually pretty good, but there is a lot of talking and singing and talking and singing that will occur for a good 1-2 hours after bedtime.
The other night, Kirk went up and saw this and quickly called me up to see.Molly had gotten all of her "friends" and managed to have them positioned all around her, face up, starting at her feet and ending with "Elmo loves you" at her side. Notice the Elmo book beside her? I am pretty sure she probably "read" that book to her friends prior to falling asleep. Then Kirk pointed out Pablo. Poor Pablo, apparently he was not a good friend for he was booted from the party--- tossed out of the bed and laying face down. I did ask her about it the next morning, I asked why he was on the floor... she said he was "bad" hmmm, wonder what really went down?!? ha!
And just because I love they way they look while sleeping, I had to take this picture of Sam the same night.

dining deals....

2011-07-19T14:25:00.002-04:00

Chili’s has released another FREE Kids Meal Coupon for today. It is good for 2 FREE kids meals per adult entree purchased. Go here to print your coupon.

If you plan to stop by your local Sonic for breakfast, lunch or dinner, simply place your order online at SonicOnTheGo.com, use the coupon code 5off at checkout to save $5 off your online order of $10 or more, and then go pick up your food. Keep in mind that only Sonic Restaurants in Texas, Arizona and Illinois currently offer online ordering.

New York City take 1

2011-07-18T23:34:00.010-04:00

We have gone back and forth to NYC everyday this past week. (and let me tell you, we are EXHAUSTED!!!) ha.This year's theme for VBS was "The Big Adventure"I love VBS and our church does a fantastic job! This year I was in the snack section and prepared snacks for 3rd and 4th grade kids. It was so fun! I loved being able to see all of the kids each day and hearing the things that they liked about the day as well as listening to them pray and recite their memory verses.
Sam got to be a part of the "big kids" this year. He is old enough to join in with all the kids, and he LOVED it!!! (he also loved the fact that Molly had to stay in the "little kid" section ha)He had one tough day, but other than that he had a great week. He loved every aspect of VBS. He could not seem to remember everything he learned right after VBS, but a few hours later he could give me the play by play of everything! It is so neat to hear the Bible stories etc from the perspective of a 5 year old.

When you volunteer to help with VBS your littles get to go as well, so Molly thought she was a big kid just because she got to go. She loved taking her backpack and her lunch box and insisted on carrying them herself, everyday...and of course, she had to twirl and twirl and twirl with them, everyday, both with drop off and pick-up...She met a new friend this week. Her name is Nikki. Nikki is the little blond next to Molly. Molly was quite taken with her. I just had to meet this little girl as all we heard about each day was "Nikki was there" "Nikki sang songs" "Nikki played ..." So cute!! I found out she was the granddaughter of some friends of ours, when I told them how taken with Nikki Molly was she they told me that Nikki was quite excited about Molly's friendship as well. Apparently Nikki was having a hard time when being dropped off, but Molly would run and greet her yelling "Nikki" and hug her and all was well with the world again. Molly is very good with names and faces. She knew everyone in her class. In fact, when we were watching the video of her singing she asked me where "X,Y,Z" (she named like 5 people) were as they were not in the video. It was hard to say good-bye to NY, but we must get back to life in Texas. It was fun and I can not wait to see what adventure we will have next year!!!!

NEW YORK CITY take 2

2011-07-18T22:23:00.004-04:00

So it would not be VBS if there was not singing right?! and it would not be me to not be super duper proud of my kids singing the songs, SOOOO here it is. There are several, but some are duplicates... you see, we have 2 services at our church. This means I have 2 shots to get the pictures and video...

I am amazed that he actually sang AND did the hand motions... this is a first!!! So cute, makes my heart swell to see him. You cn actually hear him singing too (if you focus and concentrate) I love that I can hear him. I am sure he will just love it too when his future wife sees and hears it ha ha!!!
Good things

help one another

Molly sings the same song

Now to be in the mind of a 5 year old... Sam sang in both services, I guess if you have already done it once, you become much more comfortable and a lot more "jiggy with it" I am behind the camera shaking my head and finger and saying, "no", but the goofy faces continue...

Sam sings good things take 2

and the theme song: Big Apple Adventure:

While I was looking for the green marker...

2011-07-03T23:12:00.003-04:00

Molly was in Sunday school, I was in service. I received a text (I know, during the message no less--- glad my phone was on vibrate) this is what I see:

Her teacher sent this to me. She apologized and stated she did not know how Molly got a marker or colored her face so fast... I did not think anything of if though--- we are used to it, that is our Molly and yes, she can get into trouble faster than you can say the word trouble!

worker bee

2011-06-13T23:59:00.001-04:00

One quality that Sam (and Molly too) has is DETERMINATION and a STRONG WORK ETHIC. When he wants to do something, when he wants you to do something, and when money is involved, or if he thinks it is 'man' work that either Pa or Daddy do he will get 'er done.Pa was going to get mulch for his flower beds at the mulch place (who knows what it is really called?) We needed some too, so I asked if he could drop a load off for us as well. Sam was the mulch helper. He was excited to go and see the hauler load the mulch into the truck. He knew it needed to be scooped out of the truck and into a pile on the drive way. This. Is. "MAN's". Work.

And work he did.

Scoop by Scoop by Scoop

I am sure proud of that little boy! (oh, and pretty thankful for the mulch delivery right to my door by Lupe as well ;) )

God's beautiful promises

2011-06-12T23:02:00.001-04:00

We have had a lot of crazy big storms here lately. Tornadoes, hail, 80 MPH winds. But God has kept us safe, and the sun has always come out. We have been looking for rainbows all spring. It has been great to talk about what a rainbow really is and God's promise behind it. I know that the kids still don't quite grasp it, but they do know that our God is powerful, faithful and true. He keeps us safe, and keeps His promises.

It was ugly as we were driving home from church a couple of weeks ago. The sky was very dark in the East and sunny in the West and it was raining on us. Sam looked out the window and said "I see a rainbow!!" I looked over and sure enough, there it was. A. full .rainbow. We saw where it started and where it ended. I pulled the car over we looked at it and of course the kids sang the rainbow song- then sang it again and again and again... oh and then they sang it again...
Isn't our God good?!

But Mama, I am hungry AND tired!!!

2011-06-10T13:30:00.003-04:00

We were all playing in the playroom upstairs. I got a phone call and was talking on the phone, Molly went missing... and was quiet... too quiet. I could here movement of some sort, but couldn't figure out what is was, or where it was coming from. I assumed (I know, I know, bad thing to do with Molly) that she was just playing in the hallway at the top of the stairs with the toys she had just recently dragged out there, but I did not see her there. I could hear something again, but still no Molly, I looked down the hall and into her room, then Sam's room. Uh oh I thought, what could she possibly be into... too quiet for too long. then I looked over the balcony and saw a cute little sight... unusual, but cute...
but why is the camera ALWAYS in the spot just past the child, so that you have to disrupt them by getting it?!... I digress.....
Apparently she was tired AND hungry... so she solved both issues at once. She had taken it upon herself to open up the cheerios container and fill up her cup (but not before spilling the cheerios all over the floor--- which she 'attempted' to clean up as to not show that she had made a mess :) ) grabbed her beloved blanket, headed to the bottom step and laid down. Then she munched on the cheerios in this horizontal position. and giggled when asked what she was doing!!!

M&M's are sooo sweet

2011-06-07T23:10:00.001-04:00

Sam is in the M&M program at church (Music and Missions) on wed nights. For the last night they sang for the church... you can go here and here to see my sweet boy sing... (yup, proud mama moment!!) Isn't he just the cutest happiest little guy!!!! He is standing next to his friend (named none other than "Samuel") Thankfully he is known by his name and not "theothersamuel" hee hee. I know, I know, both of my kids have friends with the same name, you would think we picked the top names of the year or something!!
Just think, next year both molly and Sam will be up there singing--- can't wait (hopefully Molly will not replace the 'flasher' role ha ha!!!)

fireman

2011-06-04T23:34:00.012-04:00

I set up a play group for some of our friends for each week during the summer. We have a lot of fun things planned (or at least I think so) Mainly parks and splash parks, zoo, etc... We started the summer off by visiting a local park. A friend of mine suggested visiting the local fire station that is right next to the park, so we did!!! i am so glad she suggested it, I think it was a hit with both moms and kids alike!

We had a nice caravan walking over to the fire station... Sam has developed a sweet friendship with Trent. Trent is 2 months older than Molly, but you see, he is a BOY. Poor Sam, ALL of his friends are GIRLS.... ALLLLLL of them! So, whenever Trent shows up, Sam gets pretty excited, even if he is 2 years older... you see, Trent likes to run and jump and play cars!!!! Molly could take Trent or leave him, but she tends to like him the most when Sam is around (he is "Sam-approved" therefore she can accept him!!)

Sam takes on the big-brother role when Trent is around as well.

Of course the fire truck was called out prior to us arriving, so we had to wait... what better place to wait then the curb :) Molly, Sam, Trent, and "theotherMolly" (believe it or not, Molly's little friend "Molly" is like 2 weeks older than her. unfortunately we have differentiated her and my Molly by saying "the other Molly" soooo, that means that that is what my Molly calls her--- "theotherMolly", that is her name. I have tried to change this, but not sure that it is working, so for now she will be called "theotherMolly" (sorry Molly)

The Firemen were soo good!! The audience was young, but they were super. We all got firemen helmets, stickers and coloring sheets!!

You could definitely tell the older kids "got" it more... but still fun. They showed us all of their equipment (and reminded the kids to not be scared if they ever saw this crazy get up!) The kids listened pretty well.

night, night. sleep tight

2011-05-26T22:41:00.001-04:00

We have been problems with Molly staying in bed at night. (well, during nap time too--- but since she no longer naps who can expect her to stay in bed right?! GRRRRR)
Apparently the floor has been a better place for her. This is where we find her when we check on her right before we head to bed. This is where we find her when we get her up in the morning.
Remember this?!
We think it has a little bit to do with the fact that we have been without our best friend in the whole wide world (pacifier) She has been in mourning. literally. mourning. it has been rough. very rough.

for all my fellow nurses...

2011-05-05T23:54:00.003-04:00

If you are a nurse, be sure to stop by Cinnabon between May 6th and May 12th and show your Healthcare Badge. You will get a FREE Cinnabon Roll. Yum!

for all my fellow nurses...

2011-05-05T23:54:00.001-04:00

If you are a nurse, be sure to stop by Cinnabon between May 6th and May 12th and show your Healthcare Badge. You will get a FREE Cinnabon Roll. Yum!

deals around town

2011-05-05T14:01:00.002-04:00

Participating Starbucks locations will be offering Half-Priced However-You-Want-It Frappuccino Blended Beverages starting May 6 – May 15 from 3 – 5 pm.

Be sure to check with your store before going to see if they will be participating!

“Chadwick’s”, is having a buy one get one free sale going on. Their site is: www.chadwicks.com and the coupon code is: CH30059 and is valid through May 12^th

Walgreens is offering a FREE 8×10 Collage Print thru Saturday when you enter the code FREECOLLAGE at checkout. You can pick it up at your local Walgreens when you are ready (don’t have to be same day).Update: You can also get a second 8×10 collage when you use the code FORMOM at checkout--- that is 2 FREE!!!

make lemonaid out of lemons

2011-04-25T23:08:00.001-04:00

have you ever heard that phrase? That is what Sam decided to do when he found my ace bandages from when I sprained my ankle.
What else is a rambunctious little boy suppose to do when his mom wont take him anywhere and just sits on the couch when she is not hobbling around the house?
Steal her ace bandages and create roads for his cars...

where could they be?! I can't see!!!

2011-04-24T23:31:00.001-04:00

It has been really windy here. Whatever is in the air (or as Kirk says, "my allergies") has really affected my eyes. I needed to take out my contacts and wear my glasses. I could not find them. Anywhere. I looked EVERYWHERE. They were gone. BUT I knew that I had last placed them on my new night stand beside the bed. It was not the problem of remembering where I last placed them, it was where could Molly have put them. I knew I was in trouble and had decided I might never find them. I had to wear a pair of glasses from like 10 years ago. They are twisted, a weaker prescription, uneven, paint stained and of course a wee bit out of style. I had no other choice. The next day something across the room caught my eye...

Something on top of my lamp was not quite right.

yup. it is. my glasses.

Now I know the where, but will I ever know how or why?

bluebonnets take 1

2011-04-23T23:30:00.001-04:00

Well, it is that time yet again, time to head to the bonnets and get some beautiful pictures. Hmmm, well, I have seen MANY pictures that people have of their children sitting in a patch of bluebonnets, they are all so cute, so fun, so Texas! Then there is me. I have managed to go to the bluebonnets every year since Sam was born... yes, his initial blue bonnet exposure was when he was just a couple of weeks old. At first, I took the blame, I am not a good photographer, The sun was in the sky and the kids were squinting etc etc. But I have finally decided... it is not me, it is for sure my subjects... But still, I try....It was a nice day, but windy. very, very windy

She wanted to leave, as soon as we got there...

here are a few blasts from the past... wonder why I never posted last year?! :)2009 2008

bluebonnets take 2

2011-04-23T23:25:00.001-04:00

It did not go so well in the first patch, so I thought I would break things up, get in the car and drive to another patch. It had to go better right?! Well, the GIRL still would NOT cooperate for ANYTHING. she would not look at the camera or smile--- this is the best shot I got of her face...

bluebonnets take 3

2011-04-23T23:20:00.001-04:00

honestly, 3 times? well, as they say... 3rd time is the charm right? I decided to bring in the reinforcements (Kirk) It was a nice afternoon, still windy, but it had died down some. The 3rd bonnet patch was just beautiful--- this was going to be perfect, we even saw some friends of ours when we first got there...There were not a lot of smiles for some unknown reason. There were more bribes, deals made, and then eventually threats. None of which worked. Instead of smiles, this is what we got...

But something must have worked--- here are a few good ones...

the good ones

2011-04-23T23:16:00.002-04:00

and out of 3 different bluebonnet patches, 227 pictures... HERE are the good ones...

See you again next year!

Life is great with a BIG pickle

2011-04-08T22:45:00.002-04:00

It was late, the kids were tired and cranky, (as was their mommy) we ended up eating at McDonalds and then running into the store very quickly looking for something very specific. Though we did not find what we went for, we did manage to get several other things...
Including, but not limited to a HUGE jar of GIANT pickles.Sam experienced his first Giant pickle at the State fair last year and LOVED it. When we saw these at the store we just had to have them (Kirk included) It was an impulse buy

But I think it won a two thumbs up!!!

comfy?!

2011-04-07T23:35:00.004-04:00

We have been having a LOT of trouble with Molly and bed time/nap time. I am sure it is partly because we have taken away her addiction (green pacifier) but now I think it is her "new routine"
After one very trying day (when are they not lately?!) It got quiet for a little bit so I thought I had better check on her and be sure she was not destroying her room etc... This is what I found.Is she seriously using the book case shelf as a pillow?!

5 years of Samuel

2011-04-06T23:32:00.001-04:00

And here we go, 5 years of pictures...
You were late, I did not think you would EVER come I gotta tell you, it is hard to see thta due date come and then go! . The labor lasted for days, and Finally progressed once my water broke (on daddy's side of the bed no less :) ) We called everyone and headed to the hospital (during rush hour traffic on a Monday morning) I was brave for only so long--- I changed my mind and was able to get my epidural as soon as we arrived at the hospital--- I was at a 6!! You would be here very, very soon (or so we thought). About 7 hours later -- that sweet boy who had been doing flip-flops for months was on his way out (or so we thought) I pushed for about 2 hours--- you stopped tolerating it, I struck a fever and so a very quick c-section ensued... You did not look very good and did not scream so my NICU team rushed in to work with you for a few minutes. God is so good, He gave us a BEAUTIFUL, healthy baby boy. Such a miracle and an answer to many, many prayers.At one year you are FULL of energy. You do not stop for a minute. You rolled over by 3 months, started crawling at 4 months and 1 week and started taking steps around 8 months, though you refused to go passed that 7th step until right after your birthday... and boy, once you realized you could walk you decided running was even more fun! I enjoyed watching all of your milestones, even though it meant that you no longer wanted to sit and snuggle past 4 months!. You are very curious this first year and into everything!At 2 you are into even more things! What a curious little boy. During this year I realize why they call it the "terrible two's" Just 2 1/2 short months after you turned 2, your little world turned upside down ~ we added little Miss Molly into the mix and you were not quite sure about her. You did like all of the individual attention you got while mommy and Molly were in the hospital, but then we came home... You got to experience many fun and exciting new things this year, there were many trips to the park, the zoo, the fair, pumpkin patches etc etc. It takes you a little while to warm up to new things, but once you do you enjoy it all.At 3 you turned from the "terrible two's" into the "trying three's"!! This was more of a battle of wills year for you. You are gaining more independence, and love to learn new things. You love playing your friends and have developed a love/hate relationship with Molly. You like to help mommy and daddy with the chores, but also just like hanging out with us. I can already see your protective nature when I watch you with your sister. Though it has been a trying year, you are still very tender-hearted and sweet. You love to give out hugs and kisses and your smile can melt away anyone's bad day 4... boy, 4... what a unique year. Lot's of transitions take place this year. You are much more independent, though always have an eye on mommy or daddy. Your language has really taken off and you can hold actual little conversations with people. Molly is your best friend as well as your worst enemy, but if anyone was to mess with her--- they better watch out, you are a great protector and big brother. This is true to your sweet (though stubborn) nature. You still have a ton of energy, but I can see through the year how you are actually growing and maturing. You still like puzzles and outside play, but no one will ever accuse you of drawing or coloring too much! All of your friends are female, and you enjoy it! You love your bike, warm weather and winning at any game.

And here we are... 5 years old. You are so excited about being 5!! You know that by being 5 you are growing up and get a lot more privileges. You are so excited about starting school in the fall and ask about it nearly everyday. You are actually listening to us much better. You are FINALLY starting to realize that every action has a consequence and we can somewhat reason with you. You are really into DADDY right now and want to do EVERYTHING he does. We are really enjoying #5 so far (and it has only been a couple of weeks) and look forward to what all this exciting year holds.

FREE KIDS MEALS AT CHILIS___ TONIGHT ONLY

2011-04-05T10:53:00.000-04:00

Woo Hoo! This offer is back yet again this week…time to take the night off from cooking dinner and cleaning up. Just head on over to your local Chili’s with the coupon found here and kids ages 12 and under will eat FREE with any adult entree purchase. Keep in mind that there is a limit of 2 free kids meals per adult entree purchase; coupon only valid today, April 5th.

earthday deals...

2011-04-04T22:56:00.002-04:00

Stop by your local Disney Store on Friday, April 22nd, and bring 5 plastic shopping bags with you. You can get a FREE reusable tote bag (not exactly like the one above, but this was an Earth Day tote bag a few years back).

Klutz with a capitol "K"

2011-04-03T00:47:00.001-04:00

Ok, so far 2011 has not started great, though I guess you could say that it did start off with a 'bang'. Shortly after after the year started my back went out... bad. I even went to the doctor and took drugs it was so bad!!! It FINALLY healed (thanks to many, many prayers!) after like 5 weeks. I then got a cold and lost my voice yet again (kids appreciate that) and then I twisted my ankle. I am such a klutz. We had a ladies night out at the church. 3 of us carpooled there so afterward we sat in the car and chatted for a while. Let me start by saying that I tend to sit on my legs while sitting and talking. It was getting late and time to head home. I opened the door, took a step out and just fell straight down. I am sure it was quite comical to see. I do remember one of my friends saying "where'd she go?" It was like a cartoon. one minute I was standing there, a second later poof-- I was on the ground. Here is what went down... Apparently as I sat on my leg while talking, it fell asleep. I took a step out of the car with 1st foot all was well, then I took a step out of the car with the leg that was asleep and boom. Had I realized my foot was asleep I probably would have exited the car a little differently... oh well. Thanks to Meghan, I got up, but I did not know if I was hurt or not... my foot was completely asleep. And then the tingling came. I was unsure if I had horrible tingling because my foot was starting to wake up or if it was really hurt... I called Kirk on the way home to tell him what happened... (Don't forget that I had lost my voice, so I was breathing heavy from the pain and no voice). Poor Kirk could not understand a word I said. He was a little confused. He tried to piece together what I was saying and thought I had hurt myself but did not know how or why or the extent. Thankfully I was about 10 minutes away. This is what we saw when I got home:A few days later it turned a very pretty purple color--- no I am not kidding--- it was a pretty shade. It also had that greenish-yellow color to it (not quite as cute). It even bruised the other sideThat was a month ago, it is still a little swollen with a bump. and oh so very tender to touch... I am sure hoping that April will be start to a much better 2011!!! :)

we have ARRIVED at FIVE

2011-03-29T22:05:00.008-04:00

I know that I say this every single year, but, WOW!!! I can't believe Sam is already 5!!! It really has gone by so quickly. All he can talk about is how excited he is to start kindergarten now that he is 5. Kindergarten?!

We went with a spiderman theme (thanks mom for the idea) Seems the only thing he really likes is trains, and since we did that last year, as well as the year before I could not do it again. I have a good idea for another theme, but I want to use it when we have more friends and a bigger party---so, spiderman it was... and he was not disappointed. He had a great time with his grandparents (Pa and Ma, Grandpop and Nonna) as well as Aunt Leigh. and of course he made out like a bandit!! Happy birthday my sweet, sweet little boy. You are so tender-hearted, you are a hard worker and have some really great characteristics that I can not wait to see develop even more. You are growing a cute sense of humor and still have that twinkle in your eyes. You keep your eye on your sister at all times (otherwise she will cold cock you ha) and look out for her. I know you are going to be a great protector for her when you are both older. I am so proud to call you my son. I know you are growing up and before long you will not want sit and snuggle with mommy during curious George, so I will always treasure these days, even through the trying days. I love you buddy! Happy 5th birthday!

Kids eat free at chilis!

2011-03-29T10:35:00.000-04:00

It is time to take the night off from cooking dinner and cleaning up. Just head on over to your local Chili’s with the coupon found here and kids ages 12 and under will eat FREE with any adult entree purchase. Keep in mind that there is a limit of 2 free kids meals per adult entree purchase; coupon only valid today, March 29th.

Sonic Happy hour 101

2011-03-18T00:38:00.004-04:00

It was a long warm day, the kids enjoyed a nature walk, we were on the way home, the kids were thirsty, the time was just after 2PM, we saw a Sonic in the distance... no brainer--- slushes for everyone

I think they approved--- check out the exhausted, satisfied little faces

walmart rebate deal

2011-03-16T13:29:00.001-04:00

If you are a Walmart shopper, then you’ll definitely want to take advantage of this special offer from All You Magazine. Through April 15th, purchase any two of the products pictured above at Walmart and you’ll snag a $10 Walmart gift card in the mail!
Here’s what you need to do…
* Purchase 2 of the following items at Walmart through April 15th: Cottonelle Ultra Toilet paper 12pk, Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes Family Size, or Any Zicam Cold Remedy product. Keep in mind that there is a $0.50/1 Cottonelle coupon found here; there is also a $2/1 Zicam coupon found here.
* Print and complete the form found here
* Mail in the completed form along with the original Walmart store cash register receipt dated between 3/11/11 and 4/15/11 (be sure to circle the participating products on the receipt).
* Your request must be postmarked by 4/30/11. This offer is valid ONLY on purchases made at Walmart stores and is only good in the United States. Limit of one submission per household. Allow 4–6 weeks for shipment.

no spill buble tumbler for free

2011-03-15T15:47:00.000-04:00

Parenting Early Years has this freebie advertised in their magazine… just go on over to littlekidsinc.com/parenting to request a really cool and free no-spill bubble tumbler sample.

What is going on around here?

2011-03-07T22:31:00.001-05:00

I love walking around the house and seeing things that don't quite add up right. With my two it is not just a daily occurrence, but more of an hourly one ha.
Sam has "rest time" everyday. This means, Sam must go up stairs and be in his room and rest (play quietly). It is always interesting to find the different things he plays with and the specific placement he has them allMolly is funny. She is a tornado, hurricane and tsunami all wrapped up into one, HOWEVER, she has to place her toys all in a row.

Kirk went to "rest" during rest time, Sam wanted to go in the bed with him. They both took a sweet little nap.

Yup, that is my candle, Yup, that is the turkey from Molly's sandwich, Yup, she told me she was "all done". Yup, my line of questioning has changed.

I went through my coupons and looked for expired ones... the kids enjoyed "going through" them as well.
After I took down the Christmas decorations, Molly decided the little nitch needed something else in it---

Elmo, Minnie Mouse and magic wands on top of our bedroom pillows?!...

No, I can not explain this one--- It looks as though my children are actually 1) calm 2) sweet and 3) sitting next to each other without hitting/pinching/pulling/pushing one another.--- yup, this is DEFINITELY NOT a normal sight at my house

target beauty bag and samples

2011-03-06T19:50:00.001-05:00

Hurry and request a Beauty Bag filled free Beauty Samples from Target plus up to $25 worth of savings inside.

what happened

2011-02-18T23:50:00.001-05:00

Here is a cool site to see... something fun and different

All of these things are related

2011-02-15T00:34:00.004-05:00

What do all of these things have in common?
cars
princess
spiderman
lysol,
M&M's
interruptions every 10 minutes
and lots of praise?
a slit
constant gnawing
moaning,whining and complaining

Yup, we are potty training again... only this time it is going so much better---- it is actually working this time--- we are getting there, we are getting there, we are getting there (my new mantra)
cars-- pull ups (yes, left over from Sam, but she thinks they are cool ---thankfully)
princess--pull ups
spiderman--see cars above
lysol, oh yes, lots and lots of lysol
M&M's-- these are preferred over smarties that is for sure
interruptions every 10 minutes--- seems that bladder goes into overtime when mommy is busy doing something--- or is it the candy treat? hmmm
and lots of praise?--- I will give it, cause I am ready for this to be DONE DONE DONE!
a slit-- I cut a slit in the coveted green friend in order to break this addiction
constant gnawing--- fingers, toys, elmo's eyes... everything in the mouth (we are cutting 3 molars)
moaning,whining and complaining--- I want to say it is because of all the changes occurring--- can't necessarily say that :)

funny moment---
Let me preface it by saying that Sam has been quite the encourager--- well, only because he is also the recipient of the candy (M&M's). I knew it was only a matter or time, but did not expect it so soon. About a week or so ago Molly announced that she was going to go to the potty, I of course jump up and run in after her (note: always, run after Molly on way to potty) I got there a few seconds after her only to see her bare bum standing in front of the potty. Thankfully I was able to redirect her to the sitting position, but she did not quite understand why this was necessary... Oh the joys of having an older brother.

funny moment #2--
Molly is not too fond of the slit. She sucks and sucks still, but you can see that it is not what she is expecting. The one morning when I got her up, she showed me the pacifier and said, :uh oh mommy, I break it" I just went with it. I think she was expecting me to "fix it"

funny moment #3--
So, I slit 1 pacifier. A day or so later we were 'unable' to locate that one. I found an un-slit one in the bed?! hmmm, how did that happen? So, I take that one and slit it. Again a few days later, there was an unslit one in the bed and the slit one was no where to be found. I thought I had gathered up all of the green friends that we had (there were quite a few, to say the least) prior to this weaning process. I have no earthly idea as to where Molly's stash is, but she obviously has one. I have looked, I have tried, but I can not find the 2 slit ones, but a total of FOUR unslit ones have since made their appearance. Just goes to show, if I did not know it before, she truly does have an addiction!

diva, and a wallet full of cash

2011-02-14T00:59:00.001-05:00

wow! what is going on around here? My kids are acting like grown ups!! we were preparing to go out (to where else, but Target) and diva girl goes and gets her shades and purseAnd then Sam had to grab his wallet. (That wallet was burning a hole in his pocket for weeks!!) He had $4 in it (plus some change) and loved to keep it in this pocket on his sweat shirt. (in fact he wanted to keep wearing that sweatshirt just so that he would have a place for his wallet)
Oh yeah, and the boots, well they seem to complete EVERY outfit lately :)

curly Q

2011-02-12T17:31:00.002-05:00

I have always imagined if I ever had a little girl that she would have big blue eyes and really great curly hair. (2 things that I don't have, but always wished I did)
Well, I did get my blue eyed beauty, but unfortunately she has straight as a board hair. It is also very thin, baby fine, so won't hold curl at all. And then I found these amazing things called "curlformers". They are not actual 'curlers" they are made of a mesh type material and are in like a spiral shape. You need a hook as well for them to work.
I love them!!! They really do work, and last throughout the day. Molly doesn't seem to mind them either. I usually put them in after bath, and she sleeps in them (I have tried the hairdryer, but she is not as fond of it and it takes too long.) I tell her we are going to put on pretty hair and pretty curlers and that is that! Isn't that hysterical? You can get them to lay down, but I just got a kick out of this :)I do think she is now ready for the longer ones now, as her hair is longer, but isn't she cute?! I know, she looks really different doesn't she?!

Pass the Good

2011-02-09T22:12:00.001-05:00

Sports Authority has an AMAZING deal.

Until 3.31.11, you can donate used cleats, gloves and NFL merchandise and get a $10 cash card that can be used on almost everything in the store. They will give the used items to help underprivileged kids. (Remember to only donate items that you would use again yourself)

new furniture, in a state of limbo

2011-02-06T01:42:00.001-05:00

Here is the long story--- every year I have asked for a king sized bed, every year I have been told no. Then we got an AWESOME opportunity for a King sized mattress set (thank you) Next step, we need a new bed to hold our mattress set. We were suppose to look at frames/headboards over Christmas... but that was a crazy, busy time of travel etc so we were unable to. Then, we were suppose to go over the weekend after the new year. But, my back went out and that took care of the rest of the days this month so it never happened. So, fast forward to this past Sat night. We went to the dump, but were unsuccessful. On the way home I wanted to go to another store to look at a few other things. We tried to get in, but they had shut down all of the streets (and parking lot) to this store because the cirque De sole was in town (does this not sound typical to my life?)
And, as we were maneuvering our way to get to the other store, we came across a furniture store. On a whim, we go in. It was 8:35, they close at 9. Then he showed it to us. The floor bedroom set that they were discontinuing. I loved it, but we were there only to get a head board to match our current bedroom suite right?! long story even longer... we got it... the whole set... we did have to special order the chest, but other than that, we got it.
Fast forward... we were to pick it up (um, apparently if you buy the floor piece, they will not do any sort of delivery) on Tues. Severe weather alert... We had to change plans and pick it up on Monday evening. CRAZY! Talk about rushing around, we were gone all day on Sunday so we did not have much time to get things together.
When we arrived, they had wrapped the pieces as promised, but apparently one of the legs had broken off of the dresser. They were trying to "find a fix" for it, but were unsuccessful... there were phrases like, well when you buy the floor stock it is "as is" blah, blah, blah. UM, NO, um we have not officially "bought" it yet... it turns out that they will now come out to the house to fix it in a couple of days...
fast forward. We get it all home and in the house (again, without my help--- I keep claiming that my back hurts --- no really, it DOES... STILL) Thanks dad and mom!!! we appreciated your help! We went to dinner, and on our way out the weather had changed and was spitting...
Fast forward again... the next night Kirk goes to set up the bed. They stripped the screws and failed to give us any of the hardware. Really?! UGH. Do we own bolts long enough?! nope. look outside- ice storm has frozen us in. What to do, what to do, what to do... queen bed broken down, king bed frame up. Simple... just place the queen mattress inside of the king frame... yup, we felt like we were sleeping in a cave, but hey, it worked!

****UPDATE: Thankfully Kirk went out to the "man store" yesterday and the bed was fixed last night. YEAH! *****

so, all of the clothes that were in my old dresser are in bags in my closet, I can not put them into my new dresser because they have not come to fix it yet (remember, city shuts down for the week after big ice storm) My old bedroom suite is in the dining room, can't advertise it now, (ice storm)
So, I have furniture everywhere, and unable to use any of it!!!

pictures of finished project--- when project finished :)

Don't even get me started on the bathroom project I started before Thanksgiving...

the card

2011-02-05T10:43:00.004-05:00

ok, so why am I such an incredible procrastinator? I mean I do this to myself ALL of the time, BUT, I am going to really work on this fault of mine this year. (I know it will make my life, as well as my family's a whole lot less stressful :) )
I came up with the idea for our CHRISTmas card last spring, I had the basic concept, just did not know how I was going to execute it. now skip ahead to December--- I was busy doing this and that and then some, so every day the cards were placed on hold. First of all, I needed to find and make a gingerbread house of sorts. I did not really find the one I wanted, but I, did find a rice krispy treat one that I thought would be good (the kids are not particularly fond of 'ginger') Then I wanted the kids to make it, thought it would be cuter that way, but then Molly was sick with "the germ that never dies" so that didn't work. So yes, I ended up making the house myself in a matter of minutes so that I could quickly take a picture and send it off. The picture searching was now on-- you know, you want the most recent, cutest ones you have, preferably the Christmas-y ones.. I FINALLY chose my pictures, and no, they were not from our Christmas pictures--- we never got around to that, but from October and November. (in other words, I no longer had the excuse that I couldn't make the card because I didn't have the right picture of the kids ha)
So, all that to say, I did like my cards, yes, I would have done some things differently (probably could have, had I allowed myself enough time) so... onto next year's.... guess I had better get started now!!!--- because I don't want to send them out on the 24th again next year UGH!!!

The front--- a picture of the rice krispy treat house

Open the windows and the doors and you will see pictures of the kids
Open the house and see a picture of the whole family... The first line on the inside of the card says "Merry Christmas from our house to yours"

Ps: If you did not get one of our Christmas cards... do not feel that I do not like you, I ran out of time, then lost my list etc... I WILL be more organized next year!!!

Are you sure he didn't see his shadow?!

2011-02-04T17:46:00.010-05:00

BRRRRRR wow has it been COLD outside!!! Just 2 days ago was groundhogs day... here was the result, and his prediction: (EARLY SPRING). THIS is what we woke up to this morning:so what do you do when you have 3-4 inches of snow on top of 2 inches of ice?! you go out and play in it of course!!! please prepare: picture overload!!! I mean really, it rarely snows here (well, except for this year and last year) so you gotta snap as many pictures as you can before it melts away right?!

snow, glorious snow!!!

preparing to attack mommyLet's try our hand at the roller coaster shall we?!

Oops, forgot to mention it was FULL of ice from the ice storm a few days ago... This is what we call a WIPE OUT!!! and full of smilesThe slide tends to be "slid-y-er"

I think they are teaming up to throw snow on me here!!

And when it is all over... remember to THAW out BEFORE you bathe!!! (other wise those frozen hands and feet will feel like they are on FIRE!!!

Here is ONE of MANY snipits of our fun in the snow on video

I think it is pretty funny how "thick" my thin little children look--- I did dress them in sumo wrestler attire, but that is only because we do not have the appropriate clothing for snow down here. Poor kids were cold, but did not want to come inside. I finally had to make them, as poor molly's shoe would not stay on her triple layered foot and i was concerned about frozen toes!!!

ice, frozen pipes, electricity outage oh my...

2011-02-04T17:30:00.008-05:00

To say that it has been cold would be an understatement. I think that the storm that has come through is the storm of the century!! The reason I say that is because this state has shut down for 4 plus days. When I say shut down I mean it... Schools were out for not one, not two, not three but 4 days.. 4--- that is unheard of here. The ice came on Tues and never went away. Temperatures dropped to -12 degrees Fahrenheit, then last night there was SNOW on top of the ice. Not just a little snow--- but just about 4-5 inches!!!

Oh yeah, and you know that phrase: "neither rain, nor slett, nor gloom of night...? Well apparently that does NOT hold true here in Texas... we have not had mail for several days now!-- I told you, the town has SHUT DOWN!!!!

We were literally iced in. 2 inches of solid ice on driveway, in the alley and on the front street. Kirk went out yesterday and barely got the truck back up the drive into the garage (thanks to the top soil we used he got in)

Did you know that they do not insulate pipes in Texas? No, they don't want to know how I know? We had a frozen pipe... No hot water and we were questioning as to IF and WHEN it would burst. Kirk worked on it most of the day. He guessed correctly and found the source... The hot water heater is on the outside wall of the garage. He stood on a step ladder and blew the hair dryer in there for quite a while and then he cut into the wall to help get the hot air in there--- just a wall and pipe-- NO insulation of any sort... ZIP, ZERO, ZILCH. Way to go honey, thanks for preventing an enormous headache not to mention bill!So, it is the COLDEST day of the week. wind chills below zero and what happens? The electricity goes out. It was exciting for the kids (until they realized that all cartoons are attached to electricity) but we were questioning how long this was to happen, and when do we need to get the blankets out. Thankfully it was only out for 30 minutes, we were able to find out that they were randomly turning off electricity state wide. (whew, good to know it was controlled and not a snapped power line) Thankfully it only happened 2 times, for just an hour!

This was to be a busy week, instead it turned into crazy, lazy house-bound-ness. I love my house, I love my family, but I am SO ready to get out!! I mean, I live in Texas for a reason you know?!
I do feel really sorry for Jerry though--- we are hosting the super bowl, not so sure the bad weather and shut down towns were in his big plan!

deals around town....

2010-12-16T13:31:00.001-05:00

Gap is currently giving customers 40% off their entire in-store purchase. Just say “Emma40″ when checking out . This deal is good through December 20th. Go here to read more about Gap’s 5 Days of Deals.

*Not valid at Gap Kids, Baby Gap, Gap Body, Gap Maternity, Gap Outlet or gap.com

Through December 16th, take this coupon to Sears and receive $10 off your apparel and/or accessories purchase of $20 or more.
* This coupon prints with a red background. You may want to adjust your printer settings to save ink

Save $50 on your purchase of $100 or more at New York & Co. through December 16th with this coupon. If you prefer to shop online, use code 6207 to see the discount.

In celebration of turning 50, Dominos released a code on their facebook page worth 50% off your next order. Use code 50OFFPIZZA through December 19th to score 50% off your next online,carryout order

It pays to be a facebook user. Through December 17, or while supplies last, When you purchase a $5 eGift card, you’ll receive another for FREE! Go here for Kmart or here for Sears.

send a card to our service men

2010-12-14T10:52:00.000-05:00

Let’s Say Thanks is a service that allows you to send a FREE postcard to U.S. Military Personnel Stationed Overseas! What a great way to send out encouraging words to all the brave men and women that serve our country!

Want to send a free postcard?!

*Choose your design here
*Choose a message
*Hit “send”

It’s that simple!

send cookies to soldiers

2010-12-14T10:36:00.002-05:00

Wow! Kenmore is doing some amazing things on Facebook! Just head on over to the Kenmore Facebook page, “Like” them, then click on the “Cookies4Troops” tab to send a dozen cookies to a soldier away from home with your personal message of support. Even sweeter—by helping them reach their goal of sending a quarter million cookies to the troops, Kenmore will donate $50,000 to Heroes at Home Wish Registry to assist military families in need.

Can you believe that in less than a few minutes you can send a batch of cookies and a simple Christmas greeting to a soldier? …and you won’t have to spend a penny out of your pocket to do so.

Please take a few minutes out of your day to send some cookies. They deserve it, and it couldn't get any easier

All cookies sent to the troops are 100% natural and fresh baked by Katy’s LLC, a company dedicated to supporting the military community. Rich in fiber and high in protein, Katy’s cookies are the ideal treat for soldiers away from home.

keepin' busy

2010-12-11T01:15:00.002-05:00

1)She doesn't feel well,
2)she is currently watching her new video from ma for about the 10th time in a row (not exaggerating here--- they can't get enough of this cute Christian video about lying, cheating and stealing-- well it is dogs telling you not to do these things... Molly calls them germs for some odd reason?! ok, I digress...)
3) she knows her mommy is busy in the kitchen creating chocolate truffles for the Christmas cookie exchange that evening.
4) she takes this opportunity to just go for it and....

decides to put on my mascara:This is what she did when I asked her what she had done: points to her eye and says "pretty" I gotta say, she did a pretty good job, she had no mirror, yet she did manage to get it on her lashes (as well as her eyelid, cheek, nose etc etc etc)

supersize it---

2010-12-10T01:11:00.002-05:00

I am so glad I recently chose to go with the GIANT box of kleenex boxes, I did not, however, plan on using them all in less than a week though.... (um, off topic, and I thought about cropping it out when I first noticed it, then I thought it just fit -- do you think I need new socks? :) )

Yes, the bug has hit our house. Molly started with a little cough, then a croupy cough and stuffy, runny nose. Poor girl is not a pleasant sick person. (who am I kidding? she is not a pleasant well person ha ) I am just glad she is starting to feel a little better, ONLY to pass along her sweet germs to ME!!! UGH. She apparently had a "headache" and thought the nemo ice pack would help. (not sure if it did or didn't, but she did keep it on there for quite a while!!) Oh yeah, and did I mention, EVERYTHING is more tolerable when you have elmo by your side :)Sam has been a good little trooper--- apparently his "throat was broke" (sore throat) on Monday, but it has been fine since. Since Molly WILL NOT have anything to medicine (liquid, pills, fast melts... it does not matter) Sam will show her how to swallow medicine. He is so good to her. He just swallows it down and says "look Mowlly, just do it like dis" she then promptly says "oh, ok" but then quickly changes her mind and goes into convulsions... Hopefully this bug will completely bypass Kirk (yeah, right--- good luck there buddy ha) I gotta tell ya, I do not wish this on my enemies (um, do I have any of those?)

sam sings

2010-12-05T23:10:00.006-05:00

ok, here it is, that proud mama moment. Sam and his M&M group from church got to sing in "big church" today. here ya go:

I am the teacher for the kindergarten class, so I had to be up front to "assist" my camera man (Kirk) was only there for the first service. The kids sang for both services. Too bad Sam and Jessica weren't in the front row until the second service. You could see them so much better then. --- maybe Jessica's mommy got it on video for me :)

His little group sang in front of the church a few weeks ago for a Thanksgiving missions meal. That left them with only 3 times to learn these songs--- I thought they did pretty well.
I was also pretty impressed that Sam did some of the hand motions. I asked him why he doesn't ever do the motions, he just told me it was because he did not like to. (ask a dumb question, get a dumb answer)

hit and run

2010-11-26T02:17:00.002-05:00

How does a $15 haircut end up being $265? When your car gets hit in the parking lot and the ~~idiot~~ gentleman who hit me just takes off. GRRRRRR!!! I am now going to stand on the beloved soap box. It has taken me a while to write this blog post just because I had to think about the whole situation.
I was unbelievably calm when the whole event took place. Those of you who know me know that I am usually a little high strung about things like this. But I know that God had a hand in it and kept my little family safe and that is all I need to know. Am I frustrated? yes. Am I angry? yes. Am I safe? yes. Does my guardian angel typically work overtime? YES!!!
Here is the story....
Sam has been looking scruffy, I was trying the longer hair thing for a while to see if that would help that sweet ~~huge~~ little cowlick he has (It really didn't, just makes him look scruffy with a cowlick) SO, since he was going to be singing in church that night I decide it was time for a haircut. We went to a new place, a place just for kids. It looked really cool, but I was not about to pay the price they charge when all they were going to do was snip/snip and done. We leave the place, Molly runs on ahead, she ~~bolts~~ gingerly walks the parking lot to the side of the car where she gets in. I think nothing of this, we get in, and drive down the strip to another place. Sam gets his hair cut, we walk out, THIS time Molly is holding my hand, and Sam is right beside me. There is a man standing in front of my car looking into the parking lot and states "That man just hit your car!" Then he looks at me like... Go get him!! I then look at my kids, my car and the fact that the car that just hit me was now almost out of the parking lot and onto the road. yeah, no way I could "go get him"
The 'witness" was really nice, wanted to be a helpful as he could, but of course he did not get a license plate number (ugh) Apparently the man who hit my car was on his way INTO the parking spot, opened his door, (I have another ding to prove that) saw the damage, shut the door and bolted out of there. At this time we were coming out of the door, (unaware of what just happened) witness ran out of his store, and I realize that God protected us from what could have been a very bad situation. What if Molly had run to her door as she had just done 10 minutes earlier? What if the "hitter" had come into the spot as we were getting into the car seats. I just cringe to think of these "what-ifs" and just have to say Thank you to God for keeping us safe (yet again) Isn't God good?
Sam thought it was really cool that a police man came to talk to us, He and Molly kept telling people that someone "broke our car", Kirk and I were very thankful, yet frustrated, and relieved (our deductible is only $250 since it was a HIT and RUN!!!)
So still on that soap box, If you ever hit someone else's car, scratch their bumper or cause $2,000 damage as our ~~idiot~~ gentleman did. Please own up to your guilt!!! Don't leave the car all dinged and scratched, requiring the unsuspecting car owner to have the hassle of getting it inspected, wait on parts, wait on car rental and be out a lot of cash at Christmas time (or anytime for that matter) Though I am very thankful that we are safe, I am still a little miffed that we are stuck with the inconvenience, the bill and a rise in insurance rate grrrrr. And all this because I wanted to save a little less than 10 bucks on a haircut ha ha ha

These pictures do not quite do it justice, you cant see the dents, oh well. It does however remind me of a similar event almost 3 years ago...check out THIS post. I thought I had pictures of the previous one but as you see I don't :)

trick or treat

2010-11-16T00:24:00.001-05:00

We were able to go to our city's Halloween deal for kids again this year. Sam was so excited about it. From the bus ride there, to the candy, to the bus ride home he had a smile on her face.

there were a lot of rain clouds int he sky and the forecast called for rain, but that did not stop us (or the other 6000 people!)
and then it came, it came down and hard. Thankfully Kirk thought to bring the big camera
The line was long, though it did get shorter once the torrential rains came :) they were very smart, and allowed us to create lines in the firehouse so that we were not out in the rain as long.
it was a fun night despite the rain, they got candy and even books. Molly enjoyed this and would not allow me to hold her bag for her (ever) except during the bus ride. She saw IT, wanted IT and wanted everyone else to know she needed IT. Smart mama that I am thought, ok... I will make you a deal. fooler for candy... she called my bluff--- and WON!!! (she did not even have to think about the trade!! wow, can you say ADDICTION?!?!)

halloween yumminess

2010-11-15T00:30:00.002-05:00

I love Halloween. I know a lot of people find that surprising since I am a Christian. To me Halloween is just so fun, I mean really, what other day can you play dress up, ring your neighbors' doorbell and expect them to give you candy?! What a fun, fun tradition :) my kids have already learned to love this little ritual as well!
I decided to take halloween one step further this year... I am always the one that comes up with a ton of fun and great ideas, but then I don't work the kinks out in time, I forget about them or they just do not turn out as planned. I tried to be more on the ball this year and had fun creating a fun halloween snack dinner:
hot dog mummies-- how cute are they? so very simple, I think next year they will look cuter, but hey, not bad for a rookie huh?!

check out these cute mini pizzas!!

and then the final product... we also had pea pod/almond monsters too. unfortunately, the kids were really indifferent about the whole deal, but Kirk and I thought it was cute-- so at least someone thought it was fun. (there is hope next year they will appreciate it more... or not)