Ear Muvs

Victoria always says something that is close but not right. She was asking about "ear muvs" the other day and I thought it was cute. Yes, the socks are still "peepted" around here too. Don't even get me started on the ballet tights. Those are "peepted" all over.

We had a fun Halloween. I'm not a big Halloween type of girl. I really don't get excited about it even if it means fun photos to scrapbook. I did get a pumpkin at Wal-Mart and it was so much fun to carve it and roast the seeds. It was the first time we did that with the children. It reminded me of my preschool students back before I had my own children. The church festival was great too. It was bigger and better than ever and it was fun watching everyone have fun. Our favorite was the cake walk. I told my parents and Willy that we were all going to walk to win. I don't think my dad was really going but he did and HE WON!!! He got a big plate of double fudge brownies and that just made his night. Vic and David both won a bag of cookies. Dad shared his brownies with me and we were all happy!

Listening to Rockapella's Christmas CD. Getting in the Christmas frame of mind!

Vic had her first spend the night friend last night. Reagan stayed over and the girls had a blast. Reagan is 3 and did a great job staying over in a new bed and different room. She is a joy. When I tuck Victoria into bed I sing a song and say a prayer. I went to Reagan's bed and she didn't want a song so I just said a prayer. I thanked the Lord for this "Sweet little girl" and she quickly spoke up right then and said, "Big girl!" I held back my giggle and started over to thank the Lord for Reagan who is such a big girl! We made brownies today and painted hands on canvas for Christmas decorations. I have little pictures drying in my dining room that I can't wait to give to Wendy. It was fun. I ordered a great book with hand print ideas. I have a feeling it will be one of our favorites for gift ideas.

That is the excitement around here. Hopefully, it will be a great day tomorrow. We will just have to see how the football games turn out.

BOW-October-It's all peept-ed

I had the best girl trip ever! I went to an outdoor program called BOW-Becoming an Outdoor Woman. I took classes on reading the woods, rock climbing, dutch oven cooking, and deer hunting. I went with Stacey and Sarah and let me say that I haven't laughed that hard in a long time. They are two of the funniest women I have ever met. They kept me laughing so hard I actually fell on the ground and had to let out a good belly laugh more than once. By the end of the weekend, I think Sarah knew exactly how to press my giggle button. Stacey's dry subtle comments are what kept me going too. It reminded me of 8th grade science class when Wendy G. would get me laughing. You know the kind of friend that will get you to laugh at all the wrong times like in class, church, etc. Thanks ladies! My sides hurt for days!
I am happy to say my Dad has been blessed with an awesome job opportunity. It is going to be better in every way possible for him and just a God thing that he even found out about the job. Chris was looking through some Internet listings and came across a job that sounded like Dad. He told Dad to apply and the rest is history. Dad wasn't even looking for a job change. He was offered the job on Chris' birthday which gave us even more reason to celebrate!!! Congratulations!

Vic-Chick is 5! My little baby girl is five! When did she grow up? I was looking at a baby in the mall today that was two weeks old. It took me back to holding Victoria this time about five years ago. It is a blur to me now. The sleepless nights make the time all seem to run together. I'm glad that I scrapbooked it all! It's fun to look back. Happy Birthday Baby Girl!

Victoria has a new saying for when her socks are crunched around her toes. "MY SOCKS ARE PEEPT-ED!!" I don't know how to spell the words. There is a definite "T" sound after the "peep" and strong "ED" sound at the end so I wanted to make sure it came across correctly. I don't know where she got this phrase. Willy and I have adopted this term for our own use. When things are not quite right for any reason....they are "peepted" and let me say that Victoria doesn't like our incorrect usage. It did come in handy when David had a stomach virus. I was trying to describe dehydration to Victoria and why David was so sick. I just told her he didn't have enough water so it made his skin "peepted" and she understood.

My migraines have been a lot better lately. I did have a bad one on Thursday but it only lasted a day. I average one every two weeks instead of two migraines or more every week! Thank you Lord!

I'm proud of myself

Everyone knows that I love to scrapbook. I enjoy it so much that it has branched out into other paper crafts. I am not the kind of scrapbooker that you see in magazines so when I create something that looks "arty" I'm really proud of it. I worked for hours on this box - soon to be purse -for a birthday gift. I just need to add the handle. This picture is pre-glaze. I had a hard time getting inspired for this project. I didn't know where to start. I didn't know what colors or theme to use. I found the "green bling" in a box and it went from there. I added all the paper and it still looked dull. I took a risk with the white pen and I think it paid off! I love the swirls, flowers, and dots. Happy Birthday Mel!

Word

I am all about being real. I hope you know that by now, I have no pride and I am very open about my life and feelings. I have to be honest..... I am fascinated wtih all things Vanilla Ice.... I can't describe it other than that. I'm fascinated and I don't know why. Will and I were watching YouTube and I did a search for Jim Carrey and his parody of "Ice Ice Baby" on the old show "In Living Color". Here is the link. http://youtube.com/watch?v=fsr_lOv7A3c If that doesn't work, go on YouTube and type in "Jim Carrey Vanilla Ice" I don't remember ever seeing the real video but I'm sure that is on YouTube also. We couldn't stop laughing!

We watched it on YouTube last week while Tom was over and I just had to show it to my dad last night. It was soooo funny. Apparently the YouTube bit had an impression on Victoria. I was getting her dressed for bed tonight when she looked at me and said, "Word to your mother."

I didn't know what to say.

While I'm on the subject, I love all things Richard Simmons, Tammy Faye, and Tori Spelling too, all for different reasons...but that's another blog.

First Day

Victoria and David had a great first day. I was so nervous for David. I was really concerned that he would cry during carpool. I got up extra early and made his favorite breakfast and packed his favorite lunch. I didn't say a word about him going to school. I didn't want to make and issue out of it so early. He did watch me make his lunch and when he saw the Thomas lunch box, he simply looked up at me and said, "No." He said it quietly in a gentle way not a panic angry way. We rode through the carpool drop off and he said, "No" a few times then got just a little sad when the teacher unbuckled his car seat. He blew kisses through the car window and made the "sad" face almost tearing up. I watched the teacher carry him inside and he watched over her shoulder as I drove away. It broke my heart. I thought about him all day and prayed he was having a good day. I was pleasantly surprised this afternoon to see David smiling and bouncing out to carpool with his teacher. He had a great day and didn't really need or want his Lammy. The teacher said he did great and wasn't upset much. He played and had a fun day. I was thrilled. He was happy the rest of the day. What a blessing!

Victoria had her first ballet practice today. I really like her new ballet teachers. I think the little girls are so sweet in their little pink leotards and ballet slippers. This school is very strict about dress code. They even want the girls to wear their hair in a bun for practice. They looked so sweet as a result. On the way to dance, Victoria asked if her recital was today. I told her that it was just the first day and she has all year to work on the recital!

David has become a total ham. It has been really difficult to take David's picture the last few months because he wants to run from me every time I get the camera out. It is frustrating this avid scrapbooker! I have just a few rare photos of David looking at the camera much less smiling at it. Something must have changed because today he walked up to me and pointed to his smile and said, "CHEESE!" He did it a few times before I finally asked, "David, do you want me to take your picture?" He said, "Yes!" I got out the camera and he posed with everyone in the family for pictures. He smiled and said "CHEESE" with every click of the camera. I got some really cute photos.

Last Day of Summer

Back in the day school started the day after Labor Day. I grew up in Matthews/Charlotte and they had a Labor Day festival every year. I still remember riding the carnival rides at dusk thinking about starting school early the next morning. The children start school tomorrow and I don't know what I'm going to do with two mornings a week without them. Well, I think I can fill that time rather well but you know what I mean. I have been so used to having a little buddy with me that it will be strange to be able to complete a task without "help". It will be nice to have my chores complete so that when the children are home, we can play.

Say a prayer for David. He is not happy about school. He likes being my buddy and doesn't like to be away from me. We went to meet his teacher on Thursday and he cried the whole time. I sat in the room with him in my lap and he still cried. I do love his teachers and I feel very confident leaving him there. He will have "happy feet" (music and movement) once a week and chapel. They have theme weeks with special visitors, crafts, and books. He will have two teachers that are super sweet and they were not phased a bit by his crying last Thursday. Every time I tell David about school, he says "NO!" and he shakes his head. Maybe you should say a prayer for me too. It is so hard to send them to school even when you know it is best. He loves church and loved vacation Bible school this summer. I know once he spends a few days at school he will see how much fun it is and love it too.

If you want to meet for lunch on a Tues or Thurs....give me a call.

I'm STUCK!

Thanks to all of your prayers and kind words. I did have good moments and bad ones between finding out the bad news and actually having to have the D&C. I had moments where I had just had enough and just had to cry it out. I think all women have to do that at some point. But then, God showered me with blessings and joy. I felt peace. I felt loved. I felt joy. I looked for those things too. I really focused on playing with Vic and David, I watched season 2 of the office. Laugh city! I had fellowship in the Lord with the lovely ladies at MOPS and Sunday church. My family and friends were close. I had a girl's night out and a few dates with Willy. I tried to focus on those things and remember there was so much more around me. I just wanted to thank the Lord for that and all of you who listened, prayed, and just spent time with me in person or on the phone the last few weeks. It got me through.

On a positive note:
Last Saturday night Will and I got to go to the prom. Well, it felt like the prom. We went to a formal charity event. Will wore a tux and I a formal dress. It was fun doing all the prep for the event. I did all those things that girls do before big events. Bottle tan, whiten teeth, roll hair, mani/pedi, eat lean all week, bust out the really high heals, and gab with mom/friends about the whole prep. Here are some beauty tips that I discovered...to avoid the white streaks from deo on your dress, put on cortisone cream and let dry before applying deo. I don't know how or why but it goes on clear after that. I bet it would work with plain lotion. Maybe I will try that next. Also, if you do a bottle tan, peroxide on a cotton ball will take off those unfortunate streaks.

Here is more advice: Don't even try on those dresses you wore 15 pounds ago. Just don't do it. I thought I would just see if those gorgeous formals (pre Victoria) would fit. I should have taken a cue when they were hard getting over my head. I got the first one on. It was tight looked bad but thought maybe one day it would fit. Anyway, I started to take it off and it got stuck. I got stuck in the six straps that criss cross the back. I couldn't get out. It was half off, half on. I heard a few rips and snaps and it still wasn't coming off. I didn't know what to do. I was too embarrassed to get Will and even if I wanted to, I couldn't see or walk well with this dress caught around my head, neck, torso. I managed to get my face free and while studying the situation in the mirror devised an escape plan. I was later freed but still didn't learn my lesson. I got curious to see just how bad the other formals would fit and managed to get stuck in two more dresses each requiring a different escape route. Those dresses are now safely hanging in the back of the closet. Thank the Lord for consignment dresses and spanx because that is what I ended up wearing on Saturday.

I'm Moving to Australia

I'm not really moving to Australia. That phrase is code for "I had a bad day." One of my favorite books as a child was Alexander and the Terrible Horrible No Good Very Bad Day. I read it many times while volunteering at a local elementary school when I was in high school and college. It is about a little boy who has a bad day. Everything seems to go wrong so he decides to move to Australia. That became a quick joke with my mom. If either one of us greeted each other at the end of the day with, "I'm Moving To AUSTRALIA" that meant there was a story behind our day. Often for me it had to do with a bad date, test, or car trouble. It was a nice way to laugh about it and not take our problems so seriously. I have always believed laughter is the best medicine.

I was reminded of this story after the crazy week I had. We found out a few weeks ago that we were pregnant. The Dr. closely monitored my HGC levels since I had lost two pregnancies this year. We knew pretty quickly that my levels were not going up like they should have and a miscarriage was likely. A sono on Friday confirmed that I had miscarried and that I needed a D&C. I had the procedure on Friday and it was quick and over before I knew it. This is never easy and I keep thinking that "the next time will work" so I get a little more discouraged with each loss but, I am not ready to give up. I pray that in God's perfect time he will bless us with another child.

I slept Friday afternoon and took it easy. I always try to keep the house organized and clean. I had really worked to keep it together last week because I was expecting to have the D&C Friday. The ants that had taken over the house had another idea. It seems the warm weather had sent the ants inside. My bathroom and old office room were infested. I mean INFESTED with ants. William took everything out of our bathroom closet (where they were coming from) and put it on the floor/counter on the bathroom. It was a mess. A mess. infested with ants! I looked at that mess Friday after the surgery and though of Alexander and the Terrible Horrible No Good Very Bad Day. I thought maybe I should call mom and inform her I was moving to Australia. She would know exactly what I was talking about and probably have a good laugh with me!

So, If you ever had a bad day, all you have to do is email me or call and say, "I'm moving to Australia!" and I will know exactly what you mean.

We shared in Sunday school this morning about the loss. A man in the class walked up to us afterwards and shared he and his wife had two miscarriages in 2005. They quit trying after that and this week she gave birth to twins! He said the twins were a total surprise. It was so neat to hear his testimony. I am so thankful he shared that with us. It gives me hope.

Jesus Loves You and He's Coming Soon! 50th post

It is funny how the Lord can speak to you anywhere. For some reason God speaks to me at Wal-Mart. The first time was in May. I was really struggling about where to send Victoria for first grade. Funny how that is two years away but I was still worried about it. I kept wishing that day that she could go to a particular elementary school and not the one we are zoned for. A woman in Wal-Mart took notice to Victoria and just started talking to me. She had a daughter named Victoria (7yrs) and started telling me about her. It was funny how similar the two girls were. She also had an "Elizabeth" (my other future girl name) and her husband was "David". She taught fourth grade at the school I wish Victoria could go to. Turns out she lives in the neighborhood across the street from me. I found this interesting because we were not at the Wal-Mart by our homes. We were across town. The more she talked, the more we had in common. I almost asked her if she scrapbooked but I bet she does! Here is how God used her....She just kept talking about how much she loved the school we are zoned for. Her three girls go there and as a teacher, she was very impressed with it. They were very happy and she liked our school better than the one where she taught. It was like God was giving me this confirmation about our school....IN WAL-MART of all places! She brought up the subject that had consumed my thoughts that day and God used her. It was so strange how much this woman's life paralleled mine that I thought maybe she was lying. I googled her and the school and sure enough, all was correct. It was a God thing. I haven't worried about the school since.

The second time God spoke to me at Wal-Mart was yesterday. I was shopping and a lady beside me just said, "Jesus loves you and he's coming soon." It was great. I thanked her and told her that I agreed with her. We both went back to our shopping. She had a lot of courage to say that to a stranger. I know that Jesus loves me but you know, it's nice to think about it in the middle of a crowded Wal-Mart with your children running away from your cart.

Sorry this post is so long, I haven't blogged in a month! Here's some funnies:

Victoria: I want a little sister.
Me: If you had a sister, what should we name her?
Victoria: Alidia
Me: Alidia? Lidia is the name of a friend so we couldn't call her that.
Victoria: No, Alidia...Like the little girl in your preschool class that never cleaned up.
Me: Oh, Olivia!

Victoria has started painting her nails and I let her paint mine this week. It was a lot of fun for her. It was fun for me too. Keep in mind it is a clear glitter Disney brand polish that evaporates off in minutes...PERFECT for practice.
Victoria: Are you ready for your beauty mappointment?
Me: My beauty appointment?
Victoria: No, not Nappointment... MAppointment.

Are you thinking I should have her ears checked again?

David has a speech delay but he is picking up new words daily. I was so proud this week when he started calling Victoria "Sissy" with confidence. He ran into the kitchen to find me and he was yelling "SISSY! SISSY!" He was pulling me to the playroom. I ran in there and all was well. I think he was telling on her! She had a guilty look then was all ready to share the toys she was playing with. I bet that surprised her! David can tattle now!

My favorite funny is about my dad. He had his 40th high school reunion last night. Mom told me that when they pulled into the parking lot of the country club he said, "I think I got the dates confused. This isn't my class reunion. The people walking in here are old. They all have white hair!" Apparently some people were going in with walkers too. Nope Dad that was the right party! I love it!

It is here again!

I totally scored a rare Scott Leonard sings the Bee Gees CD from Japan on Ebay. These things are outrageous and I got it for a very decent price. It was released in the mid 90's. I got it last week. Uh, lets just say it's going back on ebay. Sorry Scott. I was warned by a fellow RP fan but I couldn't help myself. Curiosity got me. It's not for me.

Victoria is having fun at summer school. She has a new friend named Caleb. I discovered this when she asked if we could change David's name to Caleb. I'm glad she has a new friend. She is also at the age of difficult questions. Here are a few:

How did we get a belly button? -Where do I start with that? Placenta? Umbilical cord? I tried to be simple but everything I said led to more questions. There is nothing wrong with explaining all this but hey, I don't think her four year old mind to grasp it all.

Where do babies sleep at the hospital? - I tried to explain the baby beds there but I was afraid to tell her the babies sleep in plastic containers. I told her Johanna was a baby nurse and she should ask her the baby questions. Victoria was concerned about how the babies got out of the beds etc. Where did this come from?

David is into legos! He wants to play with them every morning. He is also starting to pitch fits. It is kind of funny when he gets upset because he never gets mad. He is so compliant most of the time that when he has a melt down, I have to hold my smile back. I guess his fits are funny now that I have some experience with toddler fits. It is also funny to watch him turn them off and on so fast. Although, they are not funny when I have a migraine.

My LuLu shirt is clean in back in the rotation tonight!

IT IS HERE!!!

The new Scott Leonard CD is here! Scott is the lead for Rockapella and just released a new solo cd. I got it in the mail today and wow! I have been rockin all afternoon. Victoria was even excited to hear it. I also got a personal note from Scott himself. I have to decoupage it to my next Rockapella purse. You may think I'm crazy for being so silly over a cd but Rockapella music brings me joy and I'm going to thank God for it.

Speaking of joy, I have been thinking about it all week. What makes me happy? What happens everyday that brings joy to my life? I should really scrapbook those things. I think God gives us those "small things" to give us joy especially when we really need it. I'm going try to be more aware of those things!
Here are two small things that bring me joy......
Bear Blanket-I have an old bear blanket that I got in 1987. It is a twin size blue blanket. It is warm and soft and just the right size. I have pretty much slept with it every night the last 20 years. I take bear blanket on vacation and I don't share it. I love my bear blanket. It has kept me warm for many nights and I am thankful for it. I have tried to use other blankets but they just don't work. Too short, too thin, too red, too big, not warm enough, or too warm...nothing works but bear.
My LuLu's T-SHIRT- Do you ever get excited when your favorite sleep shirt comes around the laundry rotation? I never did until I got my LuLu's shirt. I don't know why but I love wearing this shirt with matching shorts around the house. It brings me joy. Maybe it reminds me of the beach? I don't know. I'm just thankful for it.

Think about the little things that bring you joy this week.

I passed the general level HAM test last Saturday! It was hard but it was worth it to hear William tell me he is proud of me.

Birthday Blog

My birthday yesterday was fun. We went to Chuck E. Cheese with the family. It doesn't matter how old you are, they still give the birthday "person" 12 free tokens, a balloon, and ice cream. I was playing skee ball and noticed a little girl with a birthday crown. I said, "Is it your birthday today?" She said, "Yes." I said, "It's my birthday too." She said, "I'm 6" I told her it didn't matter how old you get, you still want to spend your birthday at Chuck E. Cheese. She asked if I wanted to take her picture. I did.

I spent yesterday afternoon at the neurologist trying to figure out why I get migraines and headaches for weeks at a time. I have a headache 75%-80% of the month. It started last summer and has gotten worse over the last year. I will have an MRI in two weeks to rule out anything serious then it's wait and see. I am not worried about that at all but at least there will be no question about it. He suggests I get on a preventative medicine to prevent headaches. Since we do want another child, that is not an option for now. Hopefully these will just go away and I will not have to take anything. That is my prayer. I did have a migraine yesterday and got it under control to go out an celebrate. Today I woke up headache free and felt fantastic! It was fun to run around the house with the children and feel my best. Today was great!

Victoria had an ulcer on her eye last week. It is gone now and she feels better. I had no idea you could get an ulcer on your eye! The medicine did the trick and now she is back to normal.

So Much Better!

The air is on and we are nice and cool. Will worked on the truck a little and it doesn't need a new engine yet! I am so thankful! Thank you Lord!

It's hot in here

We had a great week at VBS. The children also enjoyed family night on Friday. Will had to miss because our Explorer is not running. It looks like it needs a new engine. Will is spending this next week on that project. Say a prayer that is goes well for him! It is a long process. He has a conference Tues-Wed and I know how he hates to put things off. He will stay up all night to complete a project. Interesting to see how it all works out.

We went to an IDPA match yesterday and it was fun. It seems Will is getting me into hobbies (HAM/IDPA) that consist of older males. I go and think about how much these men remind me of my dad and how much fun he would have going with us. Anyway, we got home to discover the air conditioning is out. My poor mom was stuck in this hot house wondering what was going on. Our machine is less than three years old and we have had a few problems. It is 85 degrees in here and man, that is hot! The kids are cool because we had a window unit for their rooms. David was up so many times I lost count. Will is so tired from working on the car/air conditioner so we finally gave up and put David in bed with us last night. I don't know how family beds work. It doesn't work well in our family. No one sleeps!

The basement is cool so this is my new favorite spot. I pray nothing major breaks down next!

Broadway Baby

Welcome summer! We have had a busy and fun few weeks. Victoria danced in her first recital last Saturday. She did such a great job. I was so proud of her. She has looked forward to being on stage all year. ( I wonder where she gets it? : ) She liked wearing the costumes, wearing make up, and performing. Victoria was a real trooper too. A few minutes before she walked on stage, she fell. We were walking from the dressing room to the stage door when her tap shoe hit a slick spot on the floor and down she went. The worst part was that she fell in a doorway where a big brick was holding the door open. She fell right on the corner of the brick. She stood up quickly and didn't make a sound. I thought she was okay since I didn't hear a loud scream/cry. She was looking down at the floor and when I leaned over to look at her, she had huge tears welling up and her face was bright red. She was hurt but tried so hard to fight off the tears. I picked her up and put her on my hip. She looked at me and forced a smile as if to say, "The show must go on!" She never said a peep and dried her tears and went on stage with a huge smile and danced her heart out. I was so proud of her for not giving up and trying her best. My parents gave her roses and Will and I gave her a ballet trophy. She is so proud of them. After the recital, she said, "Thank you for my trophy. I have always wanted one." It made me want to go back on ebay and see what else she could get trophy's for. Is there one for cleaning up your room for a year???

While Vic was preparing for recital, I was studying for my HAM license. It is something I have always wanted to do but never pursued until now. I went Sunday afternoon to take the test. I think the HAM club was surprised to see me. One man kept walking by telling me that the test wasn't "so bad" and that they would let me take it over if I failed. This man must have had little faith in me because he came back over and sat down beside me to counsel me about the test. He told me that some people fail it 6-8 times and that they have had college graduates come in and fail. This man didn't know me at all. He didn't ask me one question but took one look at me that figured I would fail. He also told me not to "feel bad" if I failed. He got up after this but then came back around to tell me it was going to be "okay" two more times. I took the test and finished quickly. Someone came to collect the test and I sat and waited for the results. After about 5 minutes, the same man came over, got right in my ear and said, "Leave it to you to make a 100!" I was excited but I think those older men were shocked I passed let alone made a perfect score. I hope this taught him a lesson about passing judgment about people.

I am trying to read "Baghdad Without A Map" by Tony Horwitz but I don't have a lot of time to devote to it. Next on my list is "Freakenomics" by Stephen Levitt. William liked it.

David is having fun at VBS. He takes Lammy Lamerkins with him and doesn't put him down for the whole three hours. He keeps Lammy tucked under his arm the entire time. No one seems to care because David is doing so well. He doesn't cry and the teacher says he is really good. He is happy when I pick him up and blows kisses to the women as we leave the room. This is such a change from a few months ago when he cried a good bit when we left him and picked him up. He dances around the room when we leave in the morning because he is so happy to go to church!

The lead singer of Rockapella has released a new solo cd! Just in time for my birthday too!!!!! Happy Birthday to me!

Today is our 9 yr anniversary. We actually went to the movies and dinner without kids. Thanks Mom and Dad!

Where did I put my jelly shoes?

David turned 2 last week. He had a 102.5 fever as he blew out his two candles on his Elmo cupcake. He tested neg for strep even though Victoria had it the week before. He was recently on antibiotics and my friend Melissa said that could have given him a false negative test. He is better now and I hope no one else gets sick.

Victoria only has two more days left of school. She is going to miss her teacher. We were blessed this year with Miss Claire. She has to be one of the best preschool teachers I have ever seen. Victoria came home from school with the coolest stories about what they did at school. I should have been taking notes for when I go back to teach. I'm sure to keep Claire's number in my address book for future reference. Friday is Luau/water day and Victoria hasn't stopped talking about it.

Will had an exciting night last night. He decided to take down a few trees behind our fence. I took the kids outside (at a safe distance) to watch. It was quite entertaining until one fell on the fence and deck. Will spent the rest of the night repairing the fence/deck. He kept saying, "One more foot and it would have missed."

I had an exciting day today. I'm involved in a mom's group called MOPS (Mothers Of PreSchoolers) that meets twice a month at church. It is a great ministry and I credit our pastor for his support of preschool mothers. This ministry has really been a lifeline for me this year. I really don't know where I would be without it. I can't believe I waited so long to join too. I am praying about being a group leader next year. I'm really excited about it. Today was our 80's fellowship to celebrate the end of the year and start of the summer. I went all out. My group leader kept telling me that she was going all out with her 80's hair/outfit so I did the same. I wore pink leopard capri tights, long black tunic, a wide hot pink belt, very large neon green star earrings, jelly bracelets, a friendship bracelet, pumps, and to top it off massive 80's hair with matching 80's makeup. I was all excited until I started driving to church. I became overly concerned about every car that came close.....What if policeman stopped me and I had to explain my clothes??? Could I convince them that I was not crazy and really on my way to church? I got even more worried when I pulled into the full parking lot and I didn't see anyone else dressed up. I walked in the door and ran into one of the ministers. He stopped in his tracks and stared at me. His reaction scared me. I said, "Please tell me there are other women here that look like me." He assured me that there were so I walked into MOPS. Yes, other women were dressed up but not to the degree that I was. I felt really conspicuous and to top it off, 1/2 the women didn't dress up at all. Most of the other 80's outfits consisted of pegged jeans and t-shirts pulled to the side with a scrunchie. It was all worth it though when I won the best outfit and got a gift card for a manicure/pedicure! I can't wait to go relax with a magazine and bottled coke at the nail salon!

Funny how when I put on that outfit and had my huge hair all the insecurities came racing back as if I were back in 1988. I was worried if my hair had fallen flat and if anyone would make fun of my outfit. Did I look really great or really stupid??? It reminded me of how hard it was back in 8th grade in a new school, new state. I thank God that the preteen/teen years are far behind and I only pray that God will help me remember what it was like so I can understand Victoria a little better when she has to go through it.



Oh.....I don't have any pictures either!

No one threw up at the beach!

We had a great trip to the beach. I just love the beach. I could easily live there and teach preschool or open a scrapbook store. I would have to do something different with my hair. The humidity and wind made it a constant mess.

David loved the water. I couldn't get him out of it. He wasn't afraid. He ran right into the water and chased the waves. The only problem was that David is way too little to be in the ocean alone and he can't swim. My back hurt by the end of the day playing goalie between him and the water. It was fun though and wow, it was probably some of my happiest days ever! I just couldn't get enough of playing in the sand/water with the kids. I just sat there and thanked the Lord for it all.

Victoria loved the beach too. She spent her happiest times dancing around in the sand and splashing in the pool. I also have a few pictures of her just standing still facing the water with her eyes closed just feeling the sea breeze. I can't wait to start the scrapbook!

There are so many things about the water that just heal me. I love the smell of the ocean air. I love to close my eyes and listen to the waves. I love seafood! I love the outlet malls. I love asking, "What time is it?" and no one knows the answer because for one week, it just doesn't matter what time it is. I love going on the deck alone at night and watching the moon reflect on the water. Some people are mountain people and some are beach people. I am a beach person. I can't get enough of it. It is my favorite place.

My tummy hurts

Three little words that every mother dreads....MY TUMMY HURTS

Victoria woke up this morning and didn't want to get out of bed. She wanted to sit still, and she didn't want to talk. This is unusual for Victoria. She started throwing up around 9:00ish and didn't stop until noon. Really...she didn't stop. We packed up the farm and drove back to the after hours care in town. Turns out she has strep throat. About thirty minutes after the shot, she was like her old self. She wanted food, sprite, etc. I am sad she had such a tough morning but I'm thankful that we got her meds before we left for the beach. I'm not sure if I blogged about this before but last year David was sick the entire trip. He had a double ear infection and a virus. He had "runny poo poo" ( Victoria's words ) or threw up in every restaurant at the beach. I'm surprised no one asked us to leave. I hope they don't recognize us this year. I'm also hoping that the meds David is on for the ear infection keeps him from getting strep. We will see.....

My parents came over to check on Vic and my dad disappeared on the way upstairs. 10-15 minutes later he walked up to the living room and told me he was checking out the Van/tub packing system. He used my (packed) tubs to see how things will fit tomorrow. He also informed me that there is no room for the kid sized card table in the back of the van. He said he felt good about adding their tubs tomorrow even though we can only fit 5 back there not 6. We then spent about 20 minutes talking about where other things like diapers, totes, and pack & play will go. I love it!

Sorry to Stacey and Paul who stayed at the farm with us last night. I hope and pray your sweet boys don't get strep!

Man with the hat

Exciting things going on around here. Will's birthday was yesterday. Happy Birthday! It was uneventful. That is a good thing around here! It was just the four of us and we ate chicken wings and played in the yard. We played football, soccer, and blew bubbles with the kids. Note to self: Don't wear crocs to play soccer with Will. He is ruthless. We celebrated with his parents tonight and it was a nice visit.

The kids and I are going to the beach next week with my parents. I'm so excited! I look forward to this every year. I may have mentioned that this means serious packing challenges for my dad. He is super organized and a master packer. I actually caught him measuring the back of the van with a yard stick on Saturday. (made note to blog about it) He was happy to inform me that we may be able to get three tubs across the back of the van instead of two. He has just the right tubs and I'm going tomorrow to pick them up. Just for fun, I suggested taking the kid size card table and two chairs for the kids to use. The look on his face was priceless. I totally could see him repacking the van in his head. After he thought a minute he said confidently, "We can do it."

Call me crazy but I was one of the 92,000 plus people that went to A-Day. I took the kids and met my parents and brother. Will didn't go. I still can't believe I married a Yankee that doesn't like football. I justify it because he is a good husband and father. I still don't have the heart to tell my friends at the Bryant Museum (where I worked in college) that I married a man that didn't care for Bama football. Anyway, Saturday was crazy. Victoria and David wore their Bama uniforms. Victoria was a cheerleader with a hounds tooth hat and David had a Jersey. We were walking into the stadium when Vic saw the statue of Coach Bryant. She said, "I want to get my picture with the man with the hat." I was so proud! I guess she noticed they had the same hat. I think I see my next Christmas card!!! We only stayed for the first quarter. It was too packed to get a seat so we waved to the cheerleaders, Big Al, and watched the players for a minute and went to lunch. I took my digital 35 mm and it brought back memories. I was setting it up to take some photos and it reminded me of being on the sidelines in college. The energy was the same. This time, I had two kids in tow and a much better camera but with a horrible view of the field. I know the kids are too little to understand now but this is a part of my history and I was proud to share a little of it with them.

Took David to the doctor today and turns out he has an ear infection. I am so glad I took him in today. I hope he can get over this and have fun at the beach next week.

Alanis Marmoset

I have let the blog go for a while. So much has happened that I need to catch up. It may be a rambling blog....that was your warning. I have to start with what I love about my dad. This may fall into the "had to be there" category but I will give it a try.

Zoo We went to the zoo a few Sundays ago with my parents. I love going to the zoo with my dad because he always has some funny comment to make about the animals and such. We get to the Bison....
Dad- "How can you tell the difference between Buffaloes and Bison?"
Me- "How?"
Dad- "A buffalo has wings."
Me - (Thinking---Oh, here we go with Dad and the zoo jokes YES!)

We enter the primate section
walking up to the marmoset cage....
Dad- "What ever happened to Alanis Marmoset?"
Me (thinking--How can he say that with a straight face?)

We leave the primate section and on the way out there is a full size mirror hidden to the right of the exit. Dad looks at the mirror grabbed his chest and jumps and says "AHH! I thought one got loose." ( Again with a straight face)

He did spare us the Kudu jokes even though I know it was all he could do not to say something. That's the one thing about dad, he doesn't reuse his material. He made a joke about the Kudus in 1986 that went over really well but he hasn't replayed it since.

My Dad and the beach
My Dad lives for his one week at the beach. Every year in February Dad starts planning his trip. He books the condo and starts talking about where we are going to eat the first night there. In March, dad starts talking about packing the tubs. Dad is a master packer and traveler. He loves totes, bags, luggage, anything like that. His new packing idea is to use large plastic tubs. We can spend hours on the phone talking about what we are going to pack and do at the beach. His new idea this year is to leave at 6:00am so we can be at the beach by lunch. I'm game! It seems lately I'm busy with the kids and Dad is busy with work. We don't get large amounts of time to sit and chat. I'm looking forward to the beach so I can talk with Dad and catch up.

New topic...
I just finished a great book "Confederates in the Attic" by Tony Horwitz. My mom had to read this book for a class at school. She loved it and gave us a copy a few years ago. I finally took the time to sit down and read it. Horwitz toured southern states to get different view points of the Civil War over a hundred years later. He talked to all sorts of people and characters. It was laugh out loud funny and times and thought provoking all at the same time. I loved his style so much that I ordered is other two books this week... "Blue Latitudes" and "Baghdad Without A Map" I can't wait to get them in the mail. I'm not much of a reader so this is huge for me.

Just got a new CD and its not Rockapella! Shocker! I got the Toby Mac "Portable Sounds" and it is great! It really gets me going in the morning. Willy hates it... What else is new? Our music tastes are really different.

Told you the blog would ramble!
Next blog topic...IDPA

March

I love March! I really hate winter. I'm not a big fan of cold weather or snow. I love my long walks at the farm so I need it to be in the sixties to be just perfect. I'm so glad February is over.

We spent our weekend at the best birthday party ever. We went to the children's museum in T-town and wow! I just love that place. The kids could play and enjoy themselves and I could sit back and watch because everything there was safe for them to play with. Happy birthday Haley! Love you girl!

I haven't blogged in so long that I have forgotten all the funny things Vic and David have done in the last few weeks. Let me think.......We are regularly going to church on Sunday nights and Victoria really likes her preschool program. On her first night, I asked her what she learned. She was quiet for a minute then said, "Jesus turned water into cool-aide and I ate wedding cake with whipped cream on it!" I got the biggest kick out of that. David isn't as articulate yet but he still can crack me up. I was in a panic on Saturday because David slipped in the tub and busted his chin. He was trying to stand up and when he got to his knees, his face hit the side of the tub. He was lucky to only come out of it with a small cut on his chin. He wore a butterfly bandage that night to bed. When I went in to get him in the morning, it was gone. I asked him where it was and he pointed to his blanket and lammy in the crib. I didn't see it. Later that morning I looked at lammy closer and guess what he had..... A butterfly bandage on His chin. I love it!

Beautiful day

We had a fun time at the farm. The weather was perfect and we had two long walks around the place. I love going for a long walk around the farm. Our trip was cut short last week due to a serious migraine that sent me to my knees. It was refreshing to feel perfect this weekend and have no hint of a headache.

Here is my thought for the day..
Earlier this week I picked up our engagement photo and took a good look at it. Will and I looked so young and happy. I showed it to Will and said, "Look how young we were." He said, "And so naive." I thought about it. Naive? "What do you mean naive?" That opened a new conversation. We started talking about how clueless we were about children and how much they would change us. It is so true. I was a preschool teacher and really, I had no idea how parenthood would change and shape my life. It is also neat to see how my perspective has changed too. Saturday night I put David to bed and he started fussing. I was so tired and I was ready to relax and I got a little frustrated that I would have to go back in and settle him. I picked him up from the crib and started to rock him in the dark quiet room. I relaxed and started singing and that turned into praying. I prayed for him, his future, that God would give me wisdom as a mother, and that turned into prayer for Victoria and our family and then prayers for our friends. I looked down and realized David was asleep and I could put him back in the crib. Before I got up, I looked down at his sweet face and thought about how blessed I was to have him. How wonderful it feels to rock my little boy and just hold him. I quietly placed him in his crib and closed his door. I left with a smile on my face and a sweet joy in my heart. When I started into his room, I was frustrated and tired but that crying gave me an opportunity to be quiet and pray while holding my baby just a little longer. I had never thought about it before but this happens all the time. David is unsettled at the farm so I go up to rock him and it turns into a great quiet time for the both of us. Isn't it neat how God can use anything to get us to be quiet and focus on him a while.

What's a Smurth?

A few Victoria stories and David update:

Victoria is always doing something that makes me laugh. David makes me laugh by just being David but Victoria is at that fun age where you never know what she will say. Last week we were coloring and she had blue marker all over her hands. It was a dry erase marker so it was a bit tricky to wash off. I looked at her little blue hands and said, "You look like a Smurf." She said, "What's a Smurth?"

Victoria loves to eat out. She would load up on butter pats and creamer cartons if I let her. We were eating dinner with my parents on Saturday and I never noticed Victoria take a creamer carton and pull of the foil lid. I was giving the server our order when Vic looked at me whimpering with creamer splattered all over her face. She had the most pitiful embarrassed look on her face. You would have though she spilled a whole cup of milk. Her face, hair, and shirt were really wet. I wanted to laugh so hard but I controlled myself and cleaned her up. I never said a word about it. I think she learned her lesson well enough!

David is really happy little boy. He doesn't like TV unless Baby Einstein is on. That is the only show that will make him stop in his tracks. David wants to be outside all the time and he loves his bath. He is so easy!

Things that make me HAPPY!

This is random.... After Midnight but I was just thinking and needed a break from moving books...My life is so exciting.

Things that make me happy..
Laughing so hard my sides hurt-this is my favorite!
Karaoke
Prayer with a friend
New understanding of a Bible story..I learned something new today!
Playing house with Victoria (she always plays the "mommy" and I'm "the girl". She
never lets me do anything. Is this how she sees me?)
My new favorite show...The Office
The internet
Eating a good meal that I actually cooked
The song "Mexico" by Jimmy Buffett (reminds me of the beach,eating shrimp)
Long walk around the farm on a cool day
A phone call from a friend
A good sale on ebay
a clean house
Napoleon Dynamite...gosh
A cheeseburger happy meal with a coke

What makes you happy?

January

This year started off great. Will shot his second deer of the season and I won something fun off the radio (trip to meals in the making) and we got a positive pregnancy test. Things were going well until Wedensday. I started having problems and miscarried. It was not easy but I am doing a lot better now. I really believe that God has his hand on my life and that we will have another child in his perfect time. Thanks for your prayers! It has really helped me through this.

We spent the weekend at the farm and that was really great. It was nice to walk in the woods and enjoy the 75 degree weather! I sat in the shooting house with Will but we didn't see anything. I am starting to love the farm more and more. It is so funny how life changes! I used to be the girl that never drove with the windows down because it messed up my hair! Now, I don't even use hairspray! I drive with the windows down every chance I get. I still wear make-up at the farm so I haven't totally gone off the deep end! : ) Don't worry.

Victoria and David are as fun as ever. Victoria is writing her name at school and got a trip to the teacher's treasure bag. She got a doll that she kept right with her all weekend. We made her a bed out of a plastic basket and a hand towel. It was funny how much she loved her prize that the teacher probably got from a happy meal! David is like Victoria in that he loves going to the farm. Every Saturday morning he brings us his shoes and socks. He stands by the door waiting for us to open it so he can explore. He is cute in his bright orange hat and John Deere t-shirts. Victoria loves to go outside but she is SO LOUD that we worry it disturbs the deer and fellow hunters. We try to keep them around the house and only take long walks when we don't plan to hunt.

Here is a little PSA for those who like to laugh. Watch The Office on NBC Thursday nigths. I sure have needed to laugh this year and this show certainly sends me laughing until my sides hurt. I've only seen three episodes so I'm new to the show. I taped it just to see what it was all about. OKAY... FUNNY!!! Set your TIVOS and watch. Let me know what you think.