Our Enchanting Life

Pinterest Love

2012-01-14T08:45:00.011-06:00

If you happened upon the site in the last few weeks, you probably noticed that it was an "invite" only. It was basically the easiest way I had to close the site for a short bit. The only person who was "invited" was me...ha ha...so if you're still visiting after all this time of being gone, then "wow". Ha ha ha! Still not sure how often, if and when I will post here, but I still enjoy reading some of my old posts and recipes and I hate closing the site! In the meantime, I hope I don't have to close the site again, but if I do, just know that I'm not excluding anyone in particular.

So glad to see that my Chicken Stroganoff recipe has taken off on Pinterest! I love that people are able to try some of my great recipe finds. Hopefully they will be successful for every one who tries it. The Chicken Stroganoff is one of our family favorites.Publish Post

One more to remember

2012-01-01T17:20:00.002-06:00

Family and close friend relationships need cultivating. Dig: Find the real stuff. Aerate: Expel the issues. Renew: Forgive…it enlarges the future. Keep in touch, even if it means just being there to listen. Everyone needs, and deserves, people to catch them when they fall, and to cheer them on when they’re flying high. “Treasure your relationships, not your possessions.” – Anthony J. D’Angelo

Thank You for all the memories

2011-11-19T09:14:00.000-06:00

I've been writing this blog for over two years. I started it as a way to document my little Madi and also as a place for our memories, stories, pictures, thoughts, expressions, etc.

It never occurred to me

2011-11-17T09:56:00.001-06:00

"It had never occurred to me that our lives that have been so closely interwoven, could unravel with such speed. Read more »

Big Girl Panties

2011-11-13T17:31:00.002-06:00

I put my "big girl panties" on today.
Read more »

Gratitude Challenge - What I've Learned

2011-11-10T14:12:00.001-06:00

I'm completing days 17-21 personally. A lot of it is about self recognition and love and that's just not stuff I want to write on my blog this go-around.

I have to say that I've learned quite a bit on this year's Gratitude journey. I am blessed beyond belief.
Read more »

Our Wednesdays

2011-11-09T16:02:00.000-06:00

I love our Wednesdays. Madi has ballet class in the mornings. I adore watching her through the glass window. She is soaking in all the poses, the music and the friends. Right now she is learning her 2 mins of the "party girls" for the Nutcracker. She holds her little green present close to her belly and is quite attentive at learning each move. I am forever and ever grateful for this little one being in my life.

2011 Gratitude Challenge - Days 15 & 16

2011-11-08T15:06:00.002-06:00

Day 15 - Appreciate & Give Thanks for your unique qualities

Day 16 - Look in the mirror and focus on what you love about yourself

I have given thanks for my unique qualities. Right now they are personal and I don't want to share. I did look in the mirror this morning and I appreciated the fact that my body was able to carry to term two beautiful healthy babies.
Read more »

33

2011-11-07T13:34:00.002-06:00

I turned 33 today. Last year, and in 2009 I made a list. Again, like last year, I'm updating the list and adding 1 to it! Here is my list for my 33rd birthday:

2009 Entry (include 2010 in red, and 2011 updates in blue)

I turn 31 on Saturday. In honor of my birthday, I wanted to list 31 little facts about me, things i’ve learned this last year, etc. etc.

I am the oldest of 3 (1 sister & 1 brother) but I also have 3 step-brothers and 1 step-sister that I don’t see, really, ever. Hasn't changed. I probably should have mentioned that I have one brother-in-law too. This year I added a sister-in-law (Carey) and niece (Lily).
I have a brother who was a Marine, a brother-in-law in the Navy and a step-brother in the Coast Guard. My BIL in the navy is now a fighter pilot, that's pretty cool! Brook is serving overseas flying the very cool, Growler.
My sister is a wonderful teacher to low-income high school students who love her dearly. She gets to teach "To Kill a Mockingbird" this year. Totally cool. She is now an assistant principal, still totally cool.
I have been with my husband for 12 years. Some days I can’t believe it’s been that long and other days, it feels like a lifetime. We've now been married 9 years. We celebrate our 10 year anniversary in January. We've been together 14 years.
We waited 10 years before we decided to start trying for a family, because of that, we rarely need “date nights”. We now like to focus on our family of 3. We are a family of FOUR!
My favorite foods fall into the categories of pasta and Mexican. I can eat pretty much anything pasta or anything Mexican. This will never changed :) Still hasn't changed.
I love Margaritas and Stella beer. I could live on both. Still love both. Had a Stella today for my birthday. I've been enjoying CDN beers lately...Molson and Labatt.
I get my feelings hurt easier than I used to. For some reason, I now wear my heart on my sleeve. I'm learning to not take things so personally, still get my feelings hurt though. Yep, feelings still worn on my sleeve.
It’s ok if my house isn’t picture perfect everyday. It's never picture perfect anymore. I think I've forgotten what picture perfect is.
I can let laundry wait a few days to fold, in fact, sometimes it may be untouched for days and days on end. I have clothes that have been sitting on my ironing board for over 3 weeks. I've been working on getting the laundry put up the day it goes through the washer/dryer.
I’ve learned that sometimes friendships change as people change. And for the first time since I was in high school, friends have hurt me dearly this last year. I've been blessed to have new friends come into my life this year. (see all my posts the last few months related to friendships) Lessons learned.
I’ve also learned that I can forgive and seek forgiveness from those important in my life. I sought a lot of forgiveness this year, some reciprocated some not, but I've learned so much about myself in the process.
I would live in the islands if I could. One day, I will. Until then, I will visit the islands often. Can't wait to see the sand soon.
My favorite comedy show right now is “How I met your mother”. I just love it! I’m also digging Modern Family and Cougar Town. Still a huge fan of HIMYM and Modern Family. Gave up on Cougar Town. Still love HIMYM, Modern Family. Now loving Up All Night and American Horror Show.
I love scary movies. I love to be scared. Nothing's changed here.
I’m committing to sewing this next year. I want to learn to use my machine to make wonderful projects. I've been sewing a bit. Will be sewing Crosby's stocking soon.
I’m also committing to finding a church. Yea, haven't done it.
I can be disenchanted with people who go to church though. I often wonder how someone can go to church on Sunday but then act they way they do in their everyday lives.
I’m trying to get over #18 so I can get myself back into a church family.
I have learned that what goes around truly does come back around. It’s happened to me and I’m learning from it. I’ve seen it happen and I wonder if those people are learning from it.
I love to take pictures. I have over 100 albums on Shutterfly from the last 6 years. I have over 3,000 pictures saved in a “Little M” file on my computer. I now have 2 hard drives with pictures. Crazy, eh? This will never change!
I had to purchase a new hard drive just to save my pictures on.
My favorite band is the Counting Crows. I have seen them in concert 4 times. I have found some amazing new artists to listen to this year. Music hasn't been on my radar alot this year.
My new favorite band is Augustana. I have played one of their songs in the car everyday for the last 6 months. They are the #1 CD in my car, I can't wait for their new album this winter. I'm so sad that they broke up last month.
I have been known to get drunk and dance on coolers. Yep, still been known to do both :) No comments here.
I can fall asleep anytime and any place. I always sleep on airplanes. I just can’t help it.
I read every Danielle Steel book up until about 3 years ago when I started reading Nora Roberts and chick flicks. I haven’t picked up a Danielle Steel book since. Made the mistake of picking up a Danielle Steel book a few weeks ago. HORRIBLE. Her writing had gotten ridiculous. I've been reading a lot of diverse books lately.
I’m in the 3rd book of the Sookie Stackhouse novels. So far, I love them. Never read a book after the 3rd one. I love True Blood!
I just watched episode 1 of True Blood. Loved it more than I thought I would. I've loved all 3 seasons. I can't wait for next summer and Season 4. See above. Love this show!
I’m looking forward to the holidays and getting my Christmas decorations out. I can't wait for Christmas, although I hate that they are already playing commercials on tv. I'll be putting up decoration before Thanksgiving this year, that way we'll come home from the beach and our home will be decked out.
I’m 31 on Saturday. How is that even possible? How am I 32? Oh dear Lord, how am I 33??
I am now an aunt. I can't wait to see the relationship between Lily and Madi grow. We adore Lily-Belle, Love, love, love this little person.
I'm now the mom to two adorable little people. I love my family of 4 and I wouldn't change a thing about us.

Let the Sun Shine In

2011-11-06T06:35:00.001-06:00

Each morning at school, Madi's class starts the day by singing the chorus to "Let the Sun Shine In". It's a sweet song from the 50's (I believe). At home, she'll sing it about 100 times a day.

So let the sun shine in
Face it with a grin
Smilers never lose
And frowners never win
So let the sun shine in
Face it with a grin
Open up your heart and let the sun shine in

Lyrics by Frente

After they sing the song, they continue with the following:

Hey, Hey, What Do You Say
Who's Going to Be Our Helper Today?

When she sings it at home, she will add, "Mommy is going to be our helper today!"

It just melts my little heart. She is such a sweet girl.

Gratitude Challenge 2011 - Day 14

2011-11-05T17:31:00.000-05:00

Assess how the Challenge has affected you.

I'm loving doing the challenge. Each day I'm able to take a few minutes and focus on a positive aspect of my life. It's funny how each year your gratitude is just a bit altered or changed. I'm glad to have the last couple of years to look back on and see how I've changed, my life has change and my gratitude for this time in my life is so much better than it has been in the past.

Serious & Funny way to end the week

2011-11-04T15:58:00.000-05:00

From here.

2011 Gratitude Challenge - Day 13

2011-11-04T08:17:00.000-05:00

Assume the good in people

Hmmmm....I will try this today. Lately I have seen good in people I would have least expected it. I've actually been amazed by the goodness I have seen. But I have also seen the not so good in people I would have least expected it from. So, just like in 2009, this is a hard one for me to grasp.

Recent Favs

2011-11-03T11:11:00.000-05:00

This fall has brought about a lot of new items for me to discover. Some recent favs include:

Wonderful new television shows. My favorite at the moment is "American Horror Story". I love the scariness of the house and the way the show portrays all the evil that has taken place in the home. It's a scary, spooky, sit-on-the-edge of your seat show. LOVE it! I'm also loving Revenge, this season of Survivor and of course, Top Chef Texas.
A great new book, "Saving Cee Cee Honeycutt". It's the first time I've been a part of a book club and this was our read for the month. LOVE it! The book has a great storyline that is set in Savannah, GA one of my most favorite places to visit.
Peppermint Mocha's at McDonald's. I know, odd choice. But I typically will buy a cup of coffee on my way to work from McD's, and last week decided to splurge and try their new Mocha. It was delicious. It will never top my favorite holiday drinks from Starbucks, but it was definitely a delight on a cold day.
Pumpkin cupcakes. My sister-in-law Lauren has the best recipe for them and I can't wait to start making a batch of my own. Ohhh the yumminess of the pumpkin cupcake!

I'm loving the start of November....leaves falling, cooler weather, football and of course, Thanksgiving is just around the corner!

2011 Gratitude Challenge - Day 12

2011-11-03T09:50:00.000-05:00

Today, see the glass as 1/2 full.

As posted here, when I did this in 2009. I am a "glass 1/2 empty" kind of gal. I can't help it, I think I'm wired that way. I have been trying very hard the last few months to really focus on the positives in my life. I'm trying to remind myself daily that God has a plan and if he "brings you to it, he'll bring you through it". And, I must admit, that I have definitely witnessed his work lately. It's funny about the old saying, "time heals all wounds", because it just might be a bit true.

I will definitely be reminding myself that the glass is 1/2 full.

2011 Gratitude Challenge - Day 11

2011-11-02T08:35:00.000-05:00

See the world through the eyes of a child.

Now that I have two children, I love witnessing life through both of their eyes. Madi adores little Crosby. She is such a kind, sweet sister. I love that she has the opportunity to be a big sister and she is relishing in every moment. Daily she sits in front of him and tries to make him laugh or smile. He looks for her voice when he hears her come into the room. As a big sister myself, she and I will always be able to relate on being the "big sister".

Although Crosby is only 3 months, I love watching him light-up when he sees or hears something new. I love that he's the "little brother" and will have a wonderful big sister to look up to.

Having children opens your eyes to a new way of looking at the world. And I just love it!

Gratitude Challenge 2011 - Day 10

2011-11-01T13:22:00.000-05:00

Give thanks for one of your sense.

Today I am thankful for the sense of smell. I love the new baby smell of sweet Crosby. I love the smell of Madi after she's had her evening bath. I love the smell of fall....baking, pumpkins, vanilla, cinnamon. I would be lost without all the wonderful smells that I'm greeted with each day!

2011 Gratitude Challenge - Day 9

2011-10-31T10:11:00.000-05:00

I skipped day 8, on to Day 9.

Enjoy the people around you. Take a moment to appreciate their unique talents, abilities and personalities.

I am definitely enjoying each person that I am around. I am thankful for their presence in my life.

2011 Gratitude Challenge - Day 7

2011-10-29T10:03:00.000-05:00

Take a picture of one thing, person, place or specific moment that makes you feel grateful.

Gratitude Challenge 2011 - Day 6

2011-10-28T10:01:00.006-05:00

Call someone you haven't talked to in a while.

I called my grandmother today. Not because we hadn't talked in a while, but to make plans to see her on Sunday. It was, as it always is, a treat to catch-up with her. Madi even got a few minutes to chat with her Meme on the phone.

2011-10-27T15:55:00.001-05:00

2011 Gratitude Challenge - Day 5

2011-10-27T14:00:00.000-05:00

Write a list of the blessings in your life.

Keeping it short and sweet this year:

1. My children.
2. My husband.
3. Our extended family.
4. Our health.
5. Our home.

2009 Gratitude Challenge - Day 5
2010 Gratitude Challenge - Day 5

Gratitude Challenge 2011 - Days 3 & 4

2011-10-26T15:05:00.001-05:00

Day 3 - Write about something your grateful for today (yesterdays post)

Today I am grateful for:

The small gesture by a friend to reach out and bridge a gap.
My moms listening ear and words of wisdom.
The sweet voice of a friend calling to check-up on me, not my kids or matt, but me.
Matt and his strength and support
A best friend who, when hearing that my sweet Madi was treated poorly by grown women, instantly replied, "those bitches"....Couldn't ask for a better BFF.
The funny texts from my brother of baby Lily.
Madi and the kisses she only wants on the forehead.
Crosby and his new found giggles.
This life, right here and now.

Day 4 - Give thanks for a negative in your life

Thank you negative in my life for the lessons you have taught me. For humbling me and putting me back on the right path. Thank you for allowing me to see the true colors and for teaching me that sometimes I cannot be blind to the truth in front of me. Thank you for allowing me to witness the good and positive in friendships; for learning to apologize and own up to my mistakes. Thank you for allowing me to seek forgiveness and witness the growth that can occur when forgiveness is accepted.

A quote from the past

2011-10-25T15:40:00.000-05:00

So glad I found this while perusing my blog today. It says it all doesn't it?

“You could be right. You could be wrong. Remember this. Especially the second part. Being wrong allows you to take responsibility for your actions. It allows you to change. Constantly needing to be right, doesn’t.”

If you....

2011-10-25T13:26:00.000-05:00

I seldom ever recommend the blogs I'm reading. One, because there are too many and they are quite varied and two, because I just don't have the time.

But, if you ever want to read one of the best, most inspiring blogs I've stumbled upon, One Twenty Five is definitely the one. It started as a weight loss blog that now chronicles the journey of a young Canadian woman through her travels. She quit her job, just completed the Berlin Marathon, hiked to the Base Camp of Everest, will be do more travels before starting a new life in London. Her writing is wonderful, hiliarious and touching. If you are looking for a new site to check out, it's at the top of my list. Plus, I just love what she says about life,

"Every choice, every decision, every moment I’ve ever had, had lead me to where I was. Where I am. Every fight. Every struggle. Every fork in the road. It was all there for a reason."

2011-10-24T21:38:00.002-05:00

2011 Gratitude Challenge - Day 1/2

2011-10-24T15:31:00.002-05:00

Day 1 of the challenge is to pledge to complete the challenge. Since I am doing this for the 3rd consecutive year, I skipped Day 1.

Day 2 - Use the Alphabet to Express Your Gratitude

Adorable children to love and cuddle

Blessings in disguise

Crosby Andrew

Daily inspiration

Everything about my hubby

Fall

Going away for the weekend

Holiday music to get me into the spirit

Icing on the cake

J & Lauren

Knowledge and understanding that things will be better

Love of my life

My loving family

New and old friends

Oooohs and Ahhhs with my baby

Pinterest - oh how you inspire me

Quality time with my family

Reflection

St. Maarten - we are on our way

This too shall pass

Understanding from loved ones

Vacations

Watching our family grow

Xtra TLC

You, and you know who YOU are

Zed - it's always gonna be Zed

Post Party

2011-10-24T06:33:00.000-05:00

You know it's been a good party when you're still in your tu-tu with a balloon the next morning!

Sunrise

2011-10-18T06:37:00.000-05:00

I took this pic last week. It was one of the most beautiful sunrises I've seen yet. I couldn't take enough pictures of it!

For me to remember

2011-10-16T08:30:00.000-05:00

Lately I've learned a lot about the relationship of friendships in my life. As I've stated in previous posts, the last little bit has been really hard for Matt and I in dealing with friendships/relationships in our lives. I found this perfect statement that explains my thoughts perfectly.

"When we honestly ask ourselves which persons in our lives mean the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving much advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a gentle and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in an hour of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not-knowing, not curing, not-healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is a friend who cares." - Henri Nouwen

I'm Coming Home...

2011-10-14T08:15:00.001-05:00

Well, not for a few more hours. And with the time change, it will actually be this evening when I finally get to hold and hug all my babies!

It's been a long week. I've only left the hotel one time, for dinner last night. I'm tired and wore down from walking alot. And I'm tired from having to talk to people and "be nice". Ha ha!

BUT, I'm coming home! I just can't wait to be out of here!

500th & It's Just Not As Easy As It Used to Be

2011-10-11T09:15:00.000-05:00

This is my 500th post! How is that even possible? I love looking back on my old posts and seeing cute pics of a little Madi, photos from the fun events we've done, and thoughts I've had the last couple of years. Happy 500th Post to me!

Now, on to my actual blog post.

I am not home. I am traveling this week for work. Which, until now, I've always enjoyed. When I was young and travelled constantly, I loved it! Yes, I hated the time away from Matt, but I loved the cities and experiences the events brought me. Without a job that included travel, I may never have taken a NYC subway ride, stood outside Oprah's studio, seen the Golden Gate Bridge, or taken a city tour of San Diego. I was able to experience the sights, sounds, smells and tastes (I will never eat in SF's China Town again) of cities I'd only read about.

BUT, that was all before I had children. When I started traveling after Madi was born, it was hard. And I actually stopped travelling for shows that weren't my top priority. But, I"m sad to say, the travel had lost it's charm.

Now that I'm travelling and Crosby isn't even 3 months old, travel has little excitement for me at all. I'm literally counting down the days until I can be back home with my babies. I'm a mommy now and I want to be near my little ones. I know that one day the travel bug might bite me again. But for now, it's lost its luster and I want to go home!

I'm thankful for a hubby that can handle our little people beautifully. I'm also thankful for in-laws who can step-in and watch the kids on the days that I am typically home. I know they are alright and are having a great time without me. So, for now I will do my work and enjoy a few nights of uninterrupted sleep.

Only 4 more days to go :)

A Fair to Remember

2011-10-07T06:31:00.000-05:00

We took the kids to their first State Fair of Texas. I hadn't been since I was a little girl and I still remember the sights and sounds. We were excited to be able to take Madi, especially since she was really excite do ride the ferris wheel.

Highlights from the day:

Madi LOVED the ferris wheel, Matt hated it. It was hysterical. Matt really hated the height, sounds, views and Madi loved all those things. I think she could have spent the day up in the sky.
Madi rode the airplane ride twice, a hot air balloon ride (not exciting enough for her), a car ride and swings. She was such a big girl riding each ride and she loved them all.
We ate lots of food: Fletchers corn dog, fried smore's and fried bubble gum. The smore's were delicious the fried bubble gum was disgusting.
Crosby was an angel the entire day. He never cried, slept a big, and just took in all the sights.
Madi played pretend farmer in a very neat exhibit. She was began by getting a basket and a baggie filled with corn. We then walked to an orchard where she watered a tree and put a peach in her basket. We then fed corn to the chickens in the hen house and she put an egg in her basket. Our next job was milking a cow and taking a carton of milk for her basket. We then fed sheep and got some wool. She had to plant some seeds, water them, and then pick a vegetable to put in the basket (she chose eggplant). She then picked up a bag of feed and drove her tractor to the cows to leave them her feed. At the end, she had to sell all the items in her basket at the Farmer's Market. She was then given a dollar to spend at the store. The dollar buys you one treat. For some odd reason Madi picked a bag of trail mix, but she was so proud of her little purchase. I can't remember who sponsored the exhibit, but Madi was absolutely adorable pretending to be a little farmer.

3 Years

2011-09-28T19:04:00.000-05:00

Madi had her 3 yr check-up today. Stats:

38 inches tall, 75%
33 pounds, 75%
Her writing and ability to listen to directions is at a 4 yr old level
She has a small heart murmur we're going to watch this next year
She's doing great in hand/eye coordination, eating a variety of foods, sleep patterns, social, physical and mental capabilities

She did great at the appointment. She listened to each thing the doctor asked her to do. She followed all the directions and showcased her sweet personality. I was so proud of her!

Today though, she happened to use the word "Damn" twice in its proper context. We don't say this word in our house (we have other choice words) so we were surprised to hear her say. Hopefully my harsh tone about not saying it again will deter any future uses.

Chicken Stroganoff

2011-09-27T19:39:00.002-05:00

I found this wonderful webpage from Pinterest a couple of weeks ago. I've made quite a few of the simple, easy, delicious recipes from the site. I thought I'd share a few here as I make them this week.

Chicken Stroganoff

2 Tablespoons butter
1 lb. chicken breast, cut in strips
2 cups mushrooms
1 medium onion, chopped
1 can cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
4 cups egg noodles

Directions:
1. Cook chicken in 1 Tablespoon butter. Remove.
2. Cook mushrooms and onions in remaining butter.

3. Stir in chicken, soup and sour cream. I added salt/pepper to taste. Heat until boiling.

4. Serve over noodles, with a tossed salad and buttered Italian bread.

Motherhood - Where I am Now

2011-09-26T07:02:00.000-05:00

Because I use this blog as a journal, I want to keep track of where i am in the motherhood journey right now.

Madison, age 3. Crosby, 10 weeks.

Where the kids are at this age:

Madison is sleeping in a full-size bed in her room. Our night time routine consists of her having a bath (sometimes in her bath, other times in the "big" bath in our room). She picks out her p.j's. They never match, and she loves the brown shirt with the ice cream pants the most. She brushes her teeth, while standing on the "Mandy" stool my dad made me in 1983. Depending on the time, sometimes she gets to watch tv with Matt and I in the game room, other times she goes straight to bed. She sleeps with about 15 animals/dolls and Cornbread always sleeps at the end of the bed. We play a movie for her and she has to have the lights on. On a good night she asleep around 9:30 but sometimes she's still up at 11:00.

Madi loves to play pretend. Her favorites are shoe shop, school and house. She will also play pretend for hours in the gameroom. Her favorite shows are Dora, Olivia, Fresh Beat Band and the Strawberry Shortcake movie.

Madi and I will go for walks with Crosby. Madi usually rides her bike while Crosby and I walk behind her. She loves to push the limits and go fast ahead of me. Which in turn, causes me to run to catch-up with her. She'll stop at all the stop signs and look both ways before we cross the street. She loves going to the park to play.

I love including Madi in my activities throughout the day. She will help me make my coffee (she pushes the buttons), or help with Crosby, she loves to put the silverware away and she loves handing me hangers when I'm putting the laundry up.

She wears her princess dresses from morning until night. I make her change into real clothes if we are going somewhere, otherwise, she's typically in her Cinderella or Snow White dresses.

Crosby takes a bottle around 11, he's up at 3 and then again around 5 or 5:30. I'm hoping he'll be sleeping longer stretches soon, but his reflux keeps him up alot at night.

He weighs 12 lbs, 13 oz and he's 24 inches long. He's a big boy and is just now smiling and showing us his cute personality. He's a much calmer more content baby than Madison. He's content to sit in his swing or the nap nanny for the most part. He does love to be held and cuddled in the evenings. His "bewitching" hour is from 5pm until about 8:30. He is typically the fussiest during this time. Matt laughs because he will always get fussy right when we sit down to eat dinner. It doesn't matter if dinner is being served at 6pm or 8pm, he always starts to cry right before we sit down to eat.

Where I am:

I have found that after having Crosby, I'm trying really hard to enjoy these moments of motherhood. I know he's my last baby and I want to take in each moment of his cute babiness. I love watching Madi as she develops into a wonderful big sister. I love that she pinches his little nose and says "peek-a-nose". Or we'll catch her sinking him a song she's learned at school. It's usually a song we've never heard before and he's enticed her to share it with him.

When I start to lose my patience or become irritable I have to tell myself this is just a phase, and a short phase at that. Before I know it Crosby will be crawling, then talking, then walking (all in the next year, I'm sure). Madi is such a conversationalist and it seems like its happened over night. One day soon they will be scheming against Matt and I, telling each other secrets and probably giving me the silent treatment.

One day I won't have formula or diapers in the house. I know this, and so, I'm trying hard to enjoy this time when I do have little ones that need those things. I don't want to blink and have it all be gone so quickly. This is the such a fun time and it's the fun moments I want to remember the most.

A Big Thank-You

2011-09-23T07:13:00.000-05:00

A big thanks to the very special people who reached out to me after my last post. This has been a challenging few months. It's been a time of great reflection and humility, to say the least. Hopefully a future post will include some of the lessons I've learned, right now, those lessons are still pretty raw to my soul.

This last week has been especially hard and I wouldn't have made it without my friends and loved ones who offered great words of wisdom, kindess, and a shoulder to cry/lean on. I know my post-pregnancy hormones are making me 100% more emotional than I normally would be, but my goodness, being able to pick up the phone and just cry has felt good.

On a happier note. My little ones have been amazing this week. Madi and I have had alot of time to play pretend. So far, she's been Miss Brittany and I"m her student. Which is funny, as her student, my name is still "mommy". She'll say, "yes, mommy, come to the front of the room", or "Mommy, you can be the leader." She is also playing house and she is the mommy. She will put her baby to bed, feed her, give her a bath, etc. I love to watch her little mind create new scenarios to act out.

Little Crosby has been smiling alot the last week or so. His personality is starting to come out and we love to watch his face light up when he sees Madi. I just know they are going to have the best sibling relationship!

Thank Goodness It's Friday! I'm hoping for a quiet weekend with my favorite people!

Stuff that needs to be said.

2011-09-20T12:38:00.001-05:00

I've been debating on and off for the last few days as to whether or not I want to keep my blog live. I've taken it down a couple of time, I've thought about making it private to subscribers only or maybe just myself. There are people in my real life who read the blog and I'd rather them not. (You probably know who you are, if you're reading this now) Which in effect, causes me to feel the need to edit what I say here. Of course as my mother would say, "that might not be a bad thing."

But, when I think about it and look through some of my old posts, I love my little forum here for keeping track of my family's daily adventures. I love seeing Madi as a toddler. I love seeing the fun pictures from our trips and outings. Why would I let a handful of people take me away from something that I delight and find joy in doing? I guess that's the question isn't it? Why let a few people stop me from my love of blogging?

So here's the thing. For the last few months I have had to learn some hard lessons on life and relationships. And no relationship has been untouched (family, work, friendships). Matt and I have had some of the most serious conversations during this time on how we want our family to be treated by others. Are we ok with what this person has done? Will they change? Are we willing to accept that they may not change? Will we be accepted if we move forward with a new relationship? Where do we go from here in the relationship? I will say that I have made some hurtful mistakes as well in my relationships, I've owned up to them. A lot of our late night conversations are on how we can make amends on our part. We know that no one was an innocent victim in any circumstance.

BUT we've been hurt. I didn't know that heartache at this level could exist. I didn't know that Matt and I had it in us to walk through the darkness and still see the light. I've had to come to terms with the fact that sometimes history can repeat itself, and that sometimes God speaks so loudly that if you do not listen to him he will show himself in ways you never imagined.

I was telling my mom this morning that years ago I had a conversation with Matt about how I wanted to be as a mother to Madison. I made claims about changing aspects of my life so that I could be a good example to her and she wouldn't learn some of my bad behaviors. Well you know what? I didn't change that behavior. And she's at an age where she could start to learn it. God stepped in, loudly and with great force, and I have changed. I was hurt, relationships were hurt, but that behavior is gone. It's gone forever and for that, I am grateful.

I now know that when you hear the whispers of God you should not ignore him. Great pain may come your way when he decides to kick you in the ass in order for you to hear what he has to say. And the funny this is, when I look back on the last year, I know exactly when he was whispering to me. I just kept ignoring him, I kept hoping that what I heard was wrong and that people were good. I just kept pushing his whispers aside and behaving badly. God, just so you know, I hear you loud and clear :)

I know this, I will be a stronger person when all is said and done. I have taken responsibilities for my actions, I know that I will change my behaviors and I know that my family will be fine. We will probably be more cautious with our hearts and more guarded with whom we let into our lives. We won't be quite so quick to befriend new people, but we will take with us the knowledge that we can survive.

I found the video to a song I absolutely love. I thought it was great for the ending of this long and probably depressing post. Enjoy!

Noted and Observed

2011-09-19T12:53:00.002-05:00

2011-09-13T21:22:00.002-05:00

Back to the Grind - And Misc Ramblings

2011-09-13T11:47:00.000-05:00

I am officially back to work, although only 1/2 days this week. It was difficult leaving Crosby yesterday morning. He isn't staying with the same person that kept Madi at that age and while I know Ms. Cindy is going to be wonderful, she isn't Ms. Leanne. Anyone who knows me, knows that I hate change. I hate that he doesn't have the same person watching him, even though I know that he's in great hands.

Being at work was good though. I managed to work through 1200+ emails that had accumulated in my inbox. I now have my "to-do" list in place for the fall and it was nice having adult conversations that didn't involve children or babies.

Our fall calendar is filling up fast. I know that in the blink of an eye it's going to be Christmas. I'm always amazed at how fast Sept through December goes. I'm already trying to fit visits to the zoo, pumpkin patch, playgroup dates, etc. into the calendar. We also have the annual chili cook-off, our annual CDN Thanksgiving celebration, first birthdays to attend (lots of first birthdays), a little bit of travel (hello islands, we're on our way) and holidays to squeeze into these months.

On an unrelated note, I'm enjoying my Fantasy Football team. Last year I was #1 almost every week, I'm thinking I will probably stay closer to the middle this season. My team is good, but note great! I'm also looking forward to a few of the new fall shows debuting next week. Pan Am, Revenge and Up All Night look good. I'm also going to catch Ashton Kutcher on 2 1/2 Men to see if he's going to be a good Charlie Sheen replacement.

Well, I've done a lot of rambling this morning. Happy Tuesday!

What I've Given Up

2011-09-09T15:34:00.000-05:00

There are so many joys to being a mom of two little people. I could never have imagined all the love one little heart could hold. I love the family that Matt and I have created and it brings me joy to have these little ones to guide and love.

BUT

I am coming to realize that life as I once knew it has also changed.

I've given up on the notion that my house will ever be perfectly clean and stay that way. Despite my attempt to clean, straighten up, put things away, etc. I always turn around to find new toys out, mail on the table, another load of laundry sitting on the floor, dishes in the sink, etc. While I miss the neatness of my house, I love the new items that now fill our home.
I've given up the notion that I can still see my friends as often as I used to. I just can't. It's nearly impossible to take a 3 year-old and newborn out of the house without ALOT of effort. One I can do, but two is hardly worth it. I miss the daily interaction I used to have, but I'm getting accustomed to catching up one or twice a week. Thank goodness for texting :)
I've learned that I can still function on only 3-4 hours of sleep. Amazing that my body and mind can still work together with so little sleep.

While I've been on maternity leave the last few weeks, I've had a lot of time to really reflect on my family and the kind of mother I want to be for my children. I'm hoping that over time they will learn to respect themselves and each other (including their parents). I want them to understand how important each member of our family is to one another. I want to create wonderful, positive, happy memories for them, so, that in their adult lives they will be able to look back on this time and smile. I want to remember that I chose Matt as my partner, that we were together for 10 years before having children and no matter the small fight, harsh words we may say, or difficulties we face, we chose to bring these little people into this world. This is our family and each and every day we have to remember that this time is ever fleeting.

More than anything in the world, I want my children to forever feel our love for each of them. I want them to never doubt that they are our priority, our happiness, our love. We were given a gift more precious than anything I could ever have imagined. We were given an opportunity to live a full filled happy life together and each and every day I will remind myself that these are their memories we are creating. AND they deserve nothing but joy and happiness in their lives.

"Children will not remember you for the material things you provided but for the feeling that you cherished them" ~ Richard L. Evans

The last few days

2011-09-08T07:06:00.000-05:00

I'm in the last couple of days on my maternity leave. On Monday I'll be back to work. Part of me is anxious to get back to the office and my job, but another part of me is sad to see this time go. I'm going to miss my days with Madi and Crosby. I've enjoyed the freedom of doing whatever I want whenever I want. The thoughts of a schedule, rush-hour traffic, deadlines, and work in general just doesn't sound as fun as it used to.

Here's to enjoying the end of this chapter in my life!

School Picnic 2011

2011-09-04T10:48:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, Madi's school had their annual fall picnic. Even though it was about 110 degrees, I decided to take Madi. They had extended an invitation to grandparents so Gi and PopPop went with me, which was a nice blessing as it allowed me to have a few extra hands to help with Madi. Due to the heat we had to leave Matt and Crosby at home.

The school did a great job of offering fun activities for the kids. Madi was able to eat a sno cone, get her face painted, bounce in the bounce house, pet a few farm animals, eat a hot dog lunch and watch Ronald McDonald do a magic show. We fit alot into the afternoon. Madi had a blast showing off her school to us and seeing a few of her friends.

We've been very blessed to have a great school for Madi to attend. They are constantly doing fun activities like this and creating wonderful memories for the kids.

A spaceship to the moon

2011-09-04T10:39:00.000-05:00

Madi loves pointing out the moon when it makes its appearance each evening. She loves to find it, see what shape it has become that evening and she can always point out if it appears to be more yellow, white or sometimes orange. She just loves the moon.

A few days ago, she told her dad and Hillary that she wanted to sit on the moon. I'm not sure how the conversation went exactly, but it involved her wanting to get an airplane and fly to the moon. Then she decided she needed to go to the store to buy a spaceship that would take her to the moon.

Last night, she and I were driving home from G & PopPop's house. She pointed out the moon immediately. I asked her if she wanted to go to the moon. Her words, exactly:
"I think we should go to the store so I can buy a purple spaceship that will take me to the moon. Then I can sit on it for as long as I want."

I just love her imagination and attention to details.

Well, Hello There, Mr. September

2011-09-02T13:45:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure how it is possible that the summer has officially come and gone. How is it September? How has the first 2/3 of the year literally passed in the blink of an eye? I just can't seem to slow the time down and at the pace, I may wake up tomorrow and I'll be 80. Ok, just kidding, I'm hoping I'm fortunate enough to live to be 80 :)

As I've said on here for the last couple of year, I love the fall. I love the months of Sept, Oct. Nov and December. It's the best time of the year and it's always filled completely up with food, fun, friends and football. There is so much I want to do over the next few months and I can't wait to tackle each one:

Take Madi to a high school football game. If I'm able to swing it, I'd love to take her to a Trinity game.
Make a trip to the Arboretum to see the pumpkins. I desperately want to do this with both kids, but the thought of taking them both by myself scares me. I'm not a fan of the Arboretum on the weekends, it's too busy with tons of people and of course with Matt working during the week he can't really go with me. I may have to suck it up and go by myself, or plan a trip on the weekend. It will be interesting too see how this turns out.
Go to the pumpkin patch and ride the train.
Take Madi to the zoo once it cools off.
Make a few new Halloween Decorations
Host our annual Canadian Thanksgiving
Celebrate all the birthdays coming up.
Drink Pumpkin Spice Latte's starting in September. (I know, I'm breaking all the rules on this one)
Make a Christmas stocking for Crosby. - PLEASE let me start this early.
Watch lots of football with my friends
Lose my baby weight - (Goal is Nov. 1)
Try to keep up with my Fantasy team.
Try to get my Christmas shopping done early!
And of course, keep all my holiday traditions alive

It's a lovely time of the year.

Mama Said They'll Be Days Like This......

2011-08-30T10:54:00.000-05:00

Yesterday afternoon was a rough day for me.

I picked Madi up from school knowing that i had two errands to run before heading home. They were errands that could not be delayed. Madi was perfect leaving school and getting into the car. She was even excited when I said we had a couple of stops to make. BUT, when she found out we were returning her movie to Red Box she lost it. She cried and cried, and yelled at the top of her lungs, then cried some more. To top it off, Crosby was hungry and he was crying.

Two children cried in my car for 35 minutes without stopping. Nothing worked to calm Madi. I went through emotions of anger, sadness, talking to myself to stay calm, etc. It was probably the worse mothering day I've had in three years.

When we got home, I made Madi go to her room. She walked up the steps, still crying, into her room and slammed the door. Not once, not twice, but more than 3 or 4 times. I was feeding the baby, otherwise, I may have walked up there and put her to bed.

After about 10 minutes, she walked downstairs and apologized. Oh my nerves were fried, but I kept saying to myself over and over again, "Mama said they'll be days like this....they'll be days like this....mama said."

A quote on dad's

2011-08-29T09:34:00.001-05:00

"There's something like a line of gold thread running through a man's words when he talks to his daughter, and gradually over the years it gets to be long enough for you to pick up in your hands and weave into a cloth that feels like love itself."

- John Gregory Brown

Reflections on the summer of 2011

2011-08-27T12:13:00.000-05:00

It's the end of another summer for us. Madi started school last week which for us, means summer is over and fall is on it's way.

You can check out our 2010 and 2009 recaps.

2011 Recap

We ate Mr. Softee ice creams on Thursday evenings. Madi only wanted the "black" ones.

We went to the lake with our friends.

Madi attended her first ballet/tap class. She loved it! She was great at following the teachers directions, waiting her turn, doing the techniques and having a fun time each week.

We celebrated Madi's 3rd birthday. We had friends from school, playgroup, neighbors and family. She had a petting zoo themed party and loved every minute of her big day.

We went to our 3rd annual Pancho's birthday lunch. This year we got to go with Grammy.

We got to hang-out with Uncle BJ, Aunt Lauren and Baby Lily for the weekend. We did alot of swimming and eating!

A big hail storm hit our area in late June. We had over $20,000 damage to our cars, $15,000+ damage to our roof, fence, windows, a/c, etc. It's made the summer very long as we get all our repairs complete.

We spent July 4th at home with our friends. We had a BBQ and watched fire works from our neighbors backyard. It was a great day!

We had a little staycation a couple of weeks before Crosby was due. We booked a night at the Gaylord Hotel. We enjoyed dinner out, swimming, checking out the hotel, and having a fun evening away from home and out of the heat.

Madi enjoyed her first visit to the library and to have a sno cone. She chose 4 books, 3 movies, and ate a grape sno cone! It was a great day of firsts!

On the Friday before Crosby arrived, I took Madi to the American Girl doll store. She was able to pick out her own baby. She named her baby, Baby Charlie.

On July 18, Baby Crosby joined our family! Weighing in at 8 pounds, 4 oz and 21 inches long, we feel completely blessed and overjoyed with our little family of 4.

At the end of August I took Madi and Crosby to the balloon festival. I was proud that I was able to get 2 kids and myself up and out the door by 6am. An accomplishment to say the least!

The last few weeks have kept us busy at home. We are adjusting to our new family, trying to stay cool from the 100+ days of heat. We are blissfully happy and enjoying each moment in this wonderful time.

1st Day of Preschool

2011-08-22T13:38:00.000-05:00

I can't believe she is in the preschool class now. We started at her school in the toddler class, moved into the 1 Yr. class, and then spent 1/2 a year in Early twos and the last 8 months in Old twos. NOW, she's into the preschool. We even have moved to a different hall and no longer get to see the babies when we get to school.

I know little Madi will do great today. I'm excited for the writing, phonics, math, science, spanish and art/crafts she'll be doing this year. She loves to learn and I can't wait to see her blossom.

I couldn't have said it better myself.

2011-08-19T13:52:00.001-05:00

A Family of Four

2011-08-17T08:30:00.000-05:00

I'm amazed at my emotions and feelings since the arrival of Crosby. I thought I'd prepared myself for the joy and excitement of adding another little person to our family, but I had definitely under prepared myself for the overwhelming happiness of being a family of four.

For the last three years we have loved being Madi's parents. She is a joy beyond belief. Our little family of three was perfect. Everyone knew their role, every event with Madi was new and exciting. Everything was a first....first birthday, first Christmas, first family holiday, first day of school, etc. BUT, always, in the back of my mind was a little voice reminding me that our family wasn't complete. We knew that one more child would be a part of our family in the future. We were never quite complete or finished.

With the arrival of Crosby, I feel complete. He was the piece that has been missing. I feel as though I'm the mother I was meant to me. I am both Madi and Crosby's mom. We are a family, the family we've been waiting to become. I know that Madi was meant to be a big sister, she's naturally a nurturing, caring, loving little girl. We were meant to have both a little girl and little boy to love. God has blessed us with a family that we are overjoyed to be a part of. We were meant to be together. Cheesy, I know! But it's honestly how both Matt and I have felt since the Little Man joined us.

We are truly blessed.

Hating her new shoes

2011-08-09T13:10:00.000-05:00

We bought Madi a new pair of tennis shoes this weekend. She has to wear close-toed shoes for school and we like for her to have one or two pairs that are "school" only. When we were at the store Madi really wanted a pair of black Dora shoes. We only buy white shoes and so we picked her out a pair of white Puma's.

This morning I went to put the shoes on her and she screamed and cried. She told me she hated her shoes, she threw herself on the floor, she cried, yelled and tried to pull them off. Out of principle I made her wear the shoes to school. We got to her classroom and she threw herself on the floor in the hallway. She was still crying and carrying on. I drug her into the class and told her teacher the issue with the shoes. A few minutes later the Director came into Madi's class and asked a still crying Madi if she wanted to go with her for a few minutes to calm down.

I felt horrible. When I left the school Madi was being comforted by the Director. I know it's my duty as a mom to set rules and follow through with them, but how in the world can a three year old hate shoes so much that she carries on for over an hour over wearing them? I'm just baffled.

I'm hoping her day got better and she's ok with wearing her nice, new shoes.

What I Did Today? Because sometimes you need to see it written down

2011-08-01T20:57:00.000-05:00

I love this post. And thought I'd do the same:

I was able to get Madi fed, dressed and off to school by 8:45am.
I cleaned the kitchen, put away the clean dishes and started another load of dishes.
Took all my piles upstairs.
Dusted the living room.
Called for an update on my car.
Made lunch.
Had a shower.
Drove to the office to get my paycheck.
Deposited paycheck.
Got Crosby to his 2-week appt and then waited more than 40 mins to see the dr.
Held Crosby while he had his heel pricked and bled for more than 5 minutes onto a sheet of paper.
Picked Madi up from school.
Got dinner prepared and family fed.
Cleaned kitchen yet again.
Fed baby (several times today).
Got both kids into their pj's and ready for bed!

Two weeks into being the mom of two and so far, I am able to get things accomplished during the day!

Who-Hoo Did It?

2011-07-29T14:29:00.000-05:00

I just want to keep track of a few of the funny things Madi is saying these days.

Who-hoo did it? - She says this instead of saying "who". She says it all the time, "Who-hoo moved my toys?" "Who-hoo took put my drink away". It's really pretty funny.
"Later" - She says this constantly. "Later we can go outside and play Mommy, Later."
Baby Crops-by - This is what she calls Crosby. Soooo cute!

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-04T23:26:00.000-05:00

2 years.

2011-07-01T14:21:00.000-05:00

I started my blog two years ago. July 1, 2009. Madi had just turned one and I was transitioning from a private website where I kept her first year records and photos to a blog. I actually can't believe it's been two years!

Madi is three, and we're three weeks from welcoming a son! Today is the start of a long weekend, I took Madi to the pool this morning to swim. I'm taking a break from making a grocery list to write this blog post. Wow! What a difference the years can make!

While I'm still on my blog "break", I just have to remind myself how much I've learned the last couple of years of blogging. I love to look back and recount memories I've recorded here. I love reading my thoughts from a particular time in my life, or quotes that had meaning during a difficult time. I've kept my political ideals here, funny stories, a few recipes and lots of Madi memories on this site.

Even though I was in desperate need of my "break", I know I will eventually come back. I love having a piece of myself to look back on, learn from and grow from!

Happy Anniversary and Happy Canada Day!

Because I want to remember this one

2011-06-20T14:39:00.000-05:00

Only Because it's been my motto for 14+ years

2011-06-20T12:12:00.000-05:00

Taking a Break

2011-06-14T06:51:00.000-05:00

I have 5,000 thoughts and ideas running through my mind, but yet most days I can't find the words to express them. I'm at a crossroads in my life, the roads have diverged and I'm needing time and space to determine which path I want to take. I feel like the paths are vastly different, their outcomes unknown, their paths scary and uncertain.

While I wait for life to help me choose my next path, I've decided that I need some time to breathe. I need a little break from writing and putting pressure on myself to document everything that is going on in my life. I've decided to step away from my blog for a short while. I'm hoping it's not for too long, but I guess like everything else, you just never know how it's going to end-up. A part of me thinks I'll be back in days another part of me isn't sure how I can come back to blogging. I guess maybe that's why I need some time to myself.


TWO roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;

~Robert Frost

The Tides Are Changing

2011-06-09T07:03:00.000-05:00

Do you ever get the feeling that you're on the cusp of change? It's as though God is whispering and you can't quite catch what he is saying. I'm in that moment right now.

I know that we have big changes on the way. Obviously, in less than 6 weeks a little boy will enter our lives. Our family of 3 will instantly become a family of four. That in itself is a huge change. A little boy that will instantly be very different from the little girl we've been raising. We'll have more denim, plaid, trucks, cars, etc. in our home. Madi will become a big sister. Matt and I will be the parents of two little souls to love and raise. Everything in our lives is about to be turned upside down!

BUT, I feel other changes on the horizon. I feel a pull to something different, something new and exciting in our lives as well. I'm waiting patiently for the stars to align, for God's whispering to get a little louder, for the opportunities to present themselves.

It's a wonderful time in our lives, for that, I am thankful!

Mister Softee Thursdays

2011-06-04T08:09:00.000-05:00

We have a Mister Softee truck that comes down our street every Thursday evening. Madi loves to listen for his truck, we wait patiently for his arrival and she holds on to the money until he stops and we place our order. She always asks for the "black one".....a chocolate dipped cone. She can devour the entire cone in one setting. It's a messy event but we love it! These are the summer traditions I hope she remembers and cherishes!

Summer 2011

2011-05-31T14:54:00.000-05:00

Last year I created a summer binder to track Madi's activities. It was an idea from one of my favorite bloggers at Six Times the Fun and Chaos, she has 6 children and has kept a summer binder for each of them for several years. I loved the idea and after just looking through Madi's 2010 binder, I'm thrilled I started the tradition for her.

I consider tomorrow, June 1st, the official start to our summer. Madi's school will begin it's summer schedule tomorrow (no more uniforms), Memorial Day has past, and the Texas heat has set in.

I have a few fun activities I'd like to accomplish this summer with Madi.

Library time - I want to get Madi her first library card and start making weekly visits for new books and movies.
Dance classes - she starts ballet/tap in a couple of weeks. I can't wait!
Swimming - I hopt to get in lots and lots of trips to the pool before Crosby arrives.

It's not a lot, but I know that we'll have some surprises come up. She has her big birthday party in a couple of weeks and before we know it, Crosby will arrive!

Let our summer begin!

First Day vs Last Day

2011-05-26T13:48:00.000-05:00

Below is my baby 9 months ago, on her first day in the Young Two's class at school. To the right, is Madi today, the next to last day of her official school time in the Older Two's class. I can't believe the difference in her! She was such a little one when she started, she wasn't potty trained, cried when I left her at school, had temper-tantrums, etc.

Now she is just so big. She walks with me into the school. She gives me a hug and a kiss before I leave. She loves her teachers and her friends. We can converse on the way to the car in the afternoon as she tells me all about her day! The changes just amaze me!

She'll still go to school during the summer, it's just a more casual, fun atmosphere. I can't wait to see how she looks in September when she enters the 3 year old class.

Ralph Lauren & Oprah

2011-05-19T17:43:00.000-05:00

I must admit, I have loved watching Oprah this final season. Every episode has been better than the last and I'm going to be very sad to see her leave her show next week.

This afternoon I watched her interview with Ralph Lauren on his ranch in Colorado. OH MY! As you can imagine, the home was beautiful. It was everything you could imagine for an iconic designer and his home. But what I loved the most was how lovely and down to earth his family and children seemed. To hear his kids talk so affectionately about their parents, their upbringing and their wonderful family memories made me hope and pray that one day my children will think the same about their parents.

I hope that we can raise good children with great values and respect for their family members. It was a lovely, lovely interview.

Did I mention he has 5 life size tee-pees set-up on his 17,000 acres? Just amazing!

Fun photos with the tripod.

2011-05-17T16:00:00.000-05:00

The sun came up

2011-05-16T17:14:00.000-05:00

Madi has learned that she is supposed to get ready for bed when the sun goes down and she wakes up when the "sun came up". It's cute on one hand and difficult on the other.

I love that she's learned about day time and night time BUT, when she resists bedtime because the "sun is still up in the sky", even though it's after 8:30pm, then it's difficult to explain to her that we still need to go to bed.

This morning she was up at 6:45 because the sun was up and that means it's day time. Ohhh, the logic is so cute, but I really wanted her to sleep another 1/2 an hour or so.

When it's raining she likes to tell us that the flowers and the grass are getting drinks of water! She knows what the rain clouds look like and she's thrilled when she can point them out!

Maybe I have a future weatherman on my hands!

Finally, A moment to reflect

2011-05-10T11:59:00.000-05:00

It has been a really busy few day and I finally have a moment to stop and breathe and reflect on our Mother's Day weekend.

Madi's Uncle Brook was home for less than 48-hours for a brief visit before he is shipped (or flown) overseas. He will be gone for 6 months and for the third time in a decade we get to gather shipping materials to send care packages to a member of the armed forces. Thankfully, he'll be in an established base in a secure country, but his missions aren't secure, and we all know that anything can happen in just 6 months. I know little Madi will have fun making lots of things to send to her "best friend".

Matt and I are constantly amazed at her memory and her ability to associate people with places, events, relationships, etc. Although we hadn't seen Brook since December, Madi was instantly asking him questions, giving him hugs, showing-off and constantly wanting to know where her Aunt Carey was. It was incredibly cute and it made me so thankful for the short visit she was able to get with him.

We spent Mother's Day at home. Madi picked me out a beautiful bouquet of flowers and her own card. Matt says I should be thankful I didn't get a "Happy Grandmother's Day" card. She was insistent on picking everything out herself and she loved giving me hugs and kisses when I told her how much I loved her presents.

It's hard to imagine that my next Mother's Day will be as a mother to two little people. I say it a thousand times a day, but I am so incredibly blessed to be on this journey with these wonderful, precious beings. Some days may be tougher than others, but the joys far out weigh the struggles. I am loving every single moment of this time in my life.

Although I didn't spend Mother's Day with my own mother or grandmother, I'm always thankful for the women they are and the lessons they taught me. I've even learned a few lessons from my mother-in-law along the way (and we are beyond blessed that she is close enough to see Madi on a regular basis).

Teacher Appreciation - Day 3

2011-05-05T22:01:00.000-05:00

Madi loved giving her plants to her teachers today. I wish I had taken pics of her carrying the little pots inside and giving her teacher a big hug after handing her the plant. So cute!

Teacher Appreciation - Day 2

2011-05-03T21:32:00.000-05:00

For our treat tomorrow, we'll be taking a small jar of M&M's to each of Madi's teachers. She loved delivering her treat on Monday, and she's talked all day about giving the M&M's tomorrow. I found the poem online to attach to the jar.

Teacher Appreciation Week - Day 1

2011-05-02T14:47:00.000-05:00

Today is Day 1 of Teacher Appreciation Week at Madi's School. I decided to make candy bouquets for each of her teachers. I love how they turned out.

I really hope they enjoy them. We'll be doing something each day that Madi is at school. Can't wait to share Wednesday's treat.

Completely Random Post

2011-05-01T10:53:00.000-05:00

A list of misc. items I need to say and don't want to forget. This post is mainly for me and my records:

Last night, after getting my feelings hurt (which isn't hard since my pregnancy hormones are in full force and I cry at the drop of a hat), Matt gave me wonderful, thoughtful advice. Sometimes he has the ability to say the exact right thing at the exact right time and it makes me love him more than I thought was possible. His insight into people and their motives is amazing. As always, I am beyond lucky to have him as my partner on this journey.
I am constantly amazed at Madi's little mind and all the things she says and observes these days. On Friday, after running a dozen errands the last being Walmart, I told her to give me a high-five for having such good behavior all day. She said, "Yes mom, I was good at the post office, mom's work, the bank, Cornbread's dr. office (Petsmart), and Walmart. I'm a good girl today". Sooooo cute!
Madi has also figured out my soft spot for "snuggling". Every night when she gets into bed she asks me to "snuggle" with her for a few minutes. I just can't resist!
Matt just purchased a new bike for himself. He'll take Madi out in the evening for father/daughter bike rides. She is so cute in her Dora helmet and Flower Power bike and he rides right behind her on his bike. It literally makes my heart melt to see them together.
Madi has become quite the dancer. She loves to twirl, shake, and just jam out to any music we have playing. It makes me even more excited to see how she'll do this summer in her first dance class.
Our floors are 99.9% done and I can't wait to be able to put my downstairs completely back together so we can move on to the upstairs. It has been a long process, but the results are worth it. I love the new look of our floors.
I'm 82 days from seeing our sweet baby Crosby. I'm glad I've taken time to really relax and enjoy the last part of my pregnancy. I know how quickly the time goes once he arrives and I want to remember every part of this time where it's just he and I together before I share him with the world!

Pears and Bears

2011-04-27T14:18:00.000-05:00

I am in LOVE with the designer behind the children's line, Pears and Bears. I want every adult outfit for myself and every dress for little Madi. Ohhhh her style is elegant, casual, darling, sweet, everything you want to fill you closet with!

I am going to restrain myself from making any purchases from Kayce Hughes site until the fall when I'm post-pregnancy. But it will be very, very difficult to get though this summer without getting Madi at least one little dress.

Turn! Turn! Turn!

2011-04-25T14:35:00.000-05:00

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, a time to reap that which is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

Ecclesiastes 3:1

I feel like my life is currently based on Ecclesiates 3:1. I'm in a season on change and I know there is a purpose for this change but oh, change is so, so difficult for me.

My hormones are raging and each and every day I find myself hugging Madi a little longer, or when it's just she and I out doing something together, I have to stop and think about the precious little time we have left with one child. I know she is going to be a wonderful big sister. She will love and cherish every moment of having a little brother to watch over and help to care for. But I have love every single moment of being just her mommy. I haven't had to divide my attention between her and anyone else. I haven't had to share her and she hasn't had to share me. I'm trying to spend these last few weeks really relishing in the fleeting moments we have together.

I heard a comment once about people with children who start-up conversations with other people with children....you know, when you're at the park and you start talking to another mom because she happens to also be at the park with a child. The comment I heard was, "why do I have to talk to someone just because they have a child and I have a child?" which made perfect sense at the time and made me laugh. BUT, as Madi gets older and develops friendships away from our neighborhood, I find that I am actually talking to other moms because they have a child at the park, or a child in Madi's class, or happen to be eating alone at Chick-Fil-A with their 2 year old too. I say all this because I have found that adult relationships and friendships have "seasons of change" too. I know longer have the time in my day to devote to hanging out with my friends. Madi needs more of my attention now that she is older, I am feeling more of a homebody as I get further along in my pregnancy, and I have found that many of my friends are in the same boat with their lives. They are on a boat headed East and I am headed West. Does that even make sense?

I know these aren't relationships that will disappear, but I also know that in this time/stage of our lives, we just aren't on the same course. And sometimes, a relationship has to evolve and change in order for it to continue to thrive in the long run. But as one "boat" heads East, I have found lots of "boats" heading West. For this, I am thankful and I know that it's my "time to embrace" this season of my life.

Tina Fey's Prayer

2011-04-19T14:05:00.000-05:00

I saw this posted last night and then I had to read it again this morning when it was posted on another blogger's site. I LOVE it! I'm going to add her book, "Bossypants", to my list of books to read prior to Crosby's arrival.

Tina Fey's Prayer for a Daughter

First, Lord: No tattoos. May neither Chinese symbol for truth nor Winnie-the-Pooh holding the FSU logo stain her tender haunches.

May she be Beautiful but not Damaged, for it’s the Damage that draws the creepy soccer coach’s eye, not the Beauty.

When the Crystal Meth is offered, May she remember the parents who cut her grapes in half And stick with Beer.

Guide her, protect her When crossing the street, stepping onto boats, swimming in the ocean, swimming in pools, walking near pools, standing on the subway platform, crossing 86th Street, stepping off of boats, using mall restrooms, getting on and off escalators, driving on country roads while arguing, leaning on large windows, walking in parking lots, riding Ferris wheels, roller-coasters, log flumes, or anything called “Hell Drop,” “Tower of Torture,” or “The Death Spiral Rock ‘N Zero G Roll featuring Aerosmith,” and standing on any kind of balcony ever, anywhere, at any age.

Lead her away from Acting but not all the way to Finance. Something where she can make her own hours but still feel intellectually fulfilled and get outside sometimes And not have to wear high heels.

What would that be, Lord? Architecture? Midwifery? Golf course design? I’m asking You, because if I knew, I’d be doing it, Youdammit.

May she play the Drums to the fiery rhythm of her Own Heart with the sinewy strength of her Own Arms, so she need Not Lie With Drummers.

Grant her a Rough Patch from twelve to seventeen. Let her draw horses and be interested in Barbies for much too long, For childhood is short – a Tiger Flower blooming Magenta for one day – And adulthood is long and dry-humping in cars will wait.

O Lord, break the Internet forever, That she may be spared the misspelled invective of her peers And the online marketing campaign for Rape Hostel V: Girls Just Wanna Get Stabbed.

And when she one day turns on me and calls me a Bitch in front of Hollister, Give me the strength, Lord, to yank her directly into a cab in front of her friends, For I will not have that Shit. I will not have it.

And should she choose to be a Mother one day, be my eyes, Lord, that I may see her, lying on a blanket on the floor at 4:50 A.M., all-at-once exhausted, bored, and in love with the little creature whose poop is leaking up its back.

“My mother did this for me once,” she will realize as she cleans feces off her baby’s neck. “My mother did this for me.” And the delayed gratitude will wash over her as it does each generation and she will make a Mental Note to call me. And she will forget. But I’ll know, because I peeped it with Your God eyes.

Amen.

Refrigerator Rights

2011-04-17T08:20:00.000-05:00

I love this term as it relates to close friends. You know the ones.....the people you have close bonds to, the ones who have seen your house with laundry on the couch, dust on the tables, toys thrown about. Those people that you welcome in to you home any day of the week.

We are blessed with a community of friends who always have a right to open our fridge and take out what they need, "Refrigerator Rights" as you might say. They are friends always show-up with food to share, they don't mind looking in the pantry and grabbing a snack, taking a glass out of the cabinet and making themselves a drink. They are more than friends, they are family the people we are blessed to have in our child's life and whose children we hold close to our hearts. "Refrigerator Rights" don't happen over night, sometimes it takes years but sometimes if only takes a few days together and you're that type of friend. That's what I love about life, you just never know who you're going to meet and how they will impact your life!

Madi and I got to spend the day last weekend with my oldest, bestest of friends. We don't see each other often, but I didn't once think twice about opening her fridge and getting a drink. She instantly told me to grab sugar out of the pantry and we started baking. I love that our connection and strong bond is not hampered by distance.

So today, I'm thankful for all my "Refrigerator Friends"!

He who becomes a Dad

2011-04-11T11:04:00.000-05:00

When I first met Matt (we were both 19), I wasn't thinking of him as a long-term boyfriend, or a husband, or the father of my children. We were just hanging out, developing a friendship that turned into a relationship and many, many years later a marriage.

But I knew after only a few months of dating that he would be a good husband and father. He was always wonderful with the kids we were around. He loved all my little cousins (one he actually stepped in the "Dad" role to dance during half-time at a high school football game in a "Father/Daughter" dance for my cousin). He was the one who wanted to buy the Christmas gifts for the little people in our lives and although he's not a fan of the baby phase, he's wonderful with all phases of childhood.

He has patience beyond belief, a genuine love for kids, his sense of humor in difficult situations is wonderful and in our baby steps through parenthood he is the yin to my yang.

I'm actually very lucky to be surrounded by alot of really great fathers. I'm able to see the positive influence that dads can have on their children. How blessed these children are to have caring, nurturing, involved and active parents in their lives. I say all this because it's fascinating to me, as we enter different stages of our lives how we each grow, change, and evolve to the situations presented to us. I've loved every moment of seeing how Matt and I would become parents. What would our parenting style be? What would he do that I couldn't do, or vice-versa.

I love that we had years and years together to create a partnership that can withstand the daily changes and obstacles of raising a child and soon (children). I love that our parenting style is about 99% consistent and almost always on the same page. He might get to be the "fun" parent more often than I am, but he always has my back and I have his.

Now that we're awaiting the arrival of a little boy, I'm looking forward to seeing how our dynamics change. How a little boy with all his difference and needs will change our family and how we'll react to those changes. I've never doubted that I chose the right person to walk this journey with me, I just feel incredibly blessed and honored that he chose me to walk the journey with him!

Steps 1 & 2

2011-04-07T10:01:00.000-05:00

I am probably the last to the know about the Fly Lady, but I stumbled upon her site a few weeks ago. She has a great site that is filled with tips on home organization and cleaning. I decided I would try a few steps and see how I could incorporate them into my life.

Step #1 - Shine Your Sink
Fly Lady recommends keeping your kitchen sink clean and shining. Her theory is that you will feel better about yourself and house (even if the rest of it is cluttered and filthy) if the sink is clean.

Let me tell you, she's right! I have made a concious effort to clean the sink each night - wash all the pots, put dishes into the dishwasher, use a little soap and scrub it down. I feel a thousand times better the next morning when I walk into the kitchen and everything is clean and as it should be. My Meme, although she doesn't say it out loud, lives by this theory. Her sink is always spotless, hopefully this will become more of a habit then a task, but I'm working on it.

Step #2 - Get Dressed to Lace Up Shoes
The purpose behind this step (and its mainly geared towards stay-at-home moms) is that you should get dressed in the morning from head to toe...including your shoes. She says you will feel better about yourself, you're prepared for unexpected visitors/friends, quick errands that may come up, etc.

I am working on this one, and some days (like yesterday), I'd just rather stay in my jammies most of the day. But I do feel better when I get up, get dressed and get ready to face the day. Since I work 3 days a week, I do this based on necessity, but the other 2 days I do try to do this step as well.

I'll keep you posted on my progress as I continue to move through the steps.

Pensacola Beach - 2011 Vacation

2011-04-02T09:32:00.001-05:00

We had a fabulous 2011 vacation. When we initially started talking about our vacation plans for this year, most of our discussions included a caribbean cruise and trying to travel months before baby #2 is due. After tons of research, a flooded house, and determining Madi just isn't quite ready for a cruise, Matt suggested we look at Pensacola. I have two girlfriends who travel to Destin annually and always recommend the beautiful beaches of Destin, Matt has actually been to Pensacola once, and we had a great recommendation on a condo. A few days after choosing Pensacola for our destination, the condo was booked and we were planning our trip.

We left on a Friday morning and drove to New Orleans. I had been to the city prior to Katrina, but Matt had never seen it. We arrived late in the afternoon and decided to stay in for dinner. We got up on Saturday though and did a 3-hour walking tour, breakfast at Market Street, a view of Cafe Du Monde (way too many people to actually get to eat there), a pass by of an Omni I'd never gotten to see, and then we were back in the car on our way to the beach.

I can only summarize the week by saying it was "Incredible". The beach was beautiful, the softest, prettiest beach I have been to in a long time. Our condo was amazing. The owner has it decorated to a tee, we had tons of amenities, two bedrooms that looked out onto the gulf, and even a grill! Everyday the sun shone, it was 78 degrees, there were few people at the beach and the pools were never crowded. It was pure BLISS.

In what turned out to be a bonus, my brother and his family decided to drive down on Monday and spent a few days with us. Madi was in heaven with her Uncle BJ, Aunt Lauren and Baby Lily. I'm hoping the time she spent with the baby is going to help her prepare for her own baby soon.

We will definitely be back to Pensacola Beach. I loved the peacefulness of our end of the island. I loved the beach and the blue water. I loved seeing Madi playing in the sand, looking for seashells, and walking barefoot everywhere. It's odd to think that our next vacation will include a 4th person!

Super Quick

2011-03-27T10:26:00.000-05:00

Just a super quick update because I really have so much to say, but I don't have the time yet to get it all written.

I can't believe I haven't written in 2 weeks. Crazy!

Our house is still under construction, the floors are close (but not quite yet) done. We just spent a week on Pensacola Beach for a little R&R.

I'm recovering from 2 incredibly busy weeks and once I catch my breath over the next few days I will sit down and write a more thoughtful post (I'll even include pics).

The family we're meant to have

2011-03-12T16:27:00.000-06:00

When I was driving to my 20 week appointment to find out what the baby was going to be, I could not stop crying. I know it was my pregnancy hormones, but in my mind, all I could think about was how close I was to finding out the type of family God had planned for me.

Would we have another girl? Would Madi get to experience the joys of having a sister? Would she learn what it's like to share dolls, toys, and eventually clothes and shopping mall experiences? Would Matt and I get to plan two weddings and see two beautiful girls become women?

Would we have a boy? Was Matt going to have his hockey player? Would Madi know the joys of having a little brother....someone to watch over, pick-on, protect and defend? Would we get to experience what it was like to parent one of each sex?

Honestly, my emotions were so raw that day. For 20 weeks you carry a baby and wonder what it's going to be. You hope with each appointment that the dr. tells you everything is good, you're baby is healthy, you're growing the little just as you should be. In one day, you find out that the little one inside you is going to be a ...... for us, Boy....and your entire life is changed. In a moment God has revealed his plans and the thought of it was and is overwhelming to me.

I had the same feelings this week when my very dear friend's sister was getting to bring home the baby she had adopted. I thought how wonderful it must be for her and their family to see God's work. To see the plan he had for them unfold. It's as if you're watching a true miracle occur right before your eyes. And when another dear friend had her baby girl, I got to witness the miracle of a baby coming into the world. How one moment that baby is inside you and the next you hold her in your arms and you're forever changed.

I feel so blessed and honored to care for the little people God has given us to care for and raise. Truly, truly blessed!

Ash Wednesday

2011-03-09T06:40:00.001-06:00

Ash Wednesday : A Franciscan Blessing

May God bless you with discomfort. Discomfort at easy answers, half truths, and superficial relationships, so that you may live deep within your heart. Amen

May God bless you with anger. Anger at injustice, oppression and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom and peace. Amen

May God bless you with tears. Tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and war, so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and turn their pain into joy. Amen

May God bless you with foolishness. Enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in this world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done. Amen

And the blessing of God, who creates, redeems and sanctifies, be upon you and all you love and pray for this day, and forever more. Amen

Boy! Oh Boy!

2011-03-07T09:20:00.000-06:00

We're having a BOY! I can't even believe that we are going to be the parents of both a wonderful little girl, AND a little boy! It's so crazy to even fathom the wonderfulness of it.

When we found out that Madi was a girl, we were shocked. At the time, we just knew we were "boy" parents. We couldn't imagine why God would give us a girl. That was a shocking moment for us.

But now, we are definitely "girl' parents. We are in love with all the pink, bows, dancing, singing, dolls, purses, dress-up clothes, etc. that surround us daily. I'm not sure that we're going to know what to do with a boy??

We had our Blue/Pink party on Saturday. I'm hoping to get a post up later today with all the details and fun from the party. More than anything, we were excited to share the news of our little one to friends and family in a special, traditional, meaningful way!

Only 19 more weeks until we get to meet Crosby Andrew! We are more than blessed!

It's A.....

2011-03-03T19:39:00.001-06:00

Healthy Baby! YAY! We found out the sex of the baby today, but I won't be revealing it until after our Blue/Pink party on Saturday. The baby is measuring right on track. Everything looks great and we couldn't be happier.

We did see that my placenta is lying low. My dr. wasn't too concerned, we're just going to watch it to ensure that it moves up in the next few weeks. She told me to just take it easy and not engage in anything that will cause too much strain on my body.

Overall, it was a great appointment!

"Come On"

2011-03-02T10:54:00.000-06:00

This is Madi's new favorite phrase. When we're getting ready to leave and she's ready and I'm not, she'll say "Come On" about a thousand times. Of course I know where she gets it from, and it's cute about the first 10 times, and then I want to pull my hair out! :)

Other favorites include:

Madi is currently sleeping with 3 dolls (they are triplets) her doggy "Sandy", her bear "Teddy" and her blanket. At night she lines them up at the end of her bed and puts a small blanket on them. So incredibly cute!
Twice this week I have gone in to check on her at night and her diaper is on the floor and her pj bottoms are back on. She can't put pants on in the daylight hours but she is somehow managing to do it at night.
She loves to talk about the "big kids". The "big kids" include all the little girls on the street that are bigger than her. Every morning we discuss the "big kids" going to school and how she is going to her school just like the "big kids". Love it!
Chicken and salad with ketch-up. This is Madi's favorite meal and she asks for it constantly. It consists of chicken nuggets, a salad with cheese and ranch dressing and ketch-up for her nuggets. She specifically ask for "chicken with salad and ketch-up".
We are about 99.9% potty trained. She is finally pooping on the potty and will let me know as soon as she needs to go. Yesterday she even pooped at Walmart! So thankful that we're just about over this hurtle.

I seriously can't believe how big she is getting. We can actually have conversations together, she loves to run errands with me. She plays and sings and dances all the time. I officially have a little person and I can't wait to see how she does as a big sister.

We find out tomorrow what baby #2 is going to be! Can't wait!

Random Ramblings

2011-02-28T14:54:00.000-06:00

Below is a pic of the start of our home construction. Matt is slowly tearing away the floors so we can eventually have them replaced with dry wood. It's definitely a harder process to remove wood floors than it was to remove the original carpet a few years ago. I'm just thankful that he knows how, and is willing, to pull it all up himself.

We had a wonderful weekend visit with my brother and his family. I (and I know he will agree) love the fact that our girls are only a couple of years apart and they are going to grow up the best of friends. Madi adores her "Baby Lily" and she can't get enough time with her. Of course this thrills me since we have our own "Baby" on the way.

I'm feeling huge these days. My stomach seems to have tripled in the last few weeks and I swear I look like I'm having a baby any day now. Before this weekend, I was eating pretty good, so now I just need to get back on track. I'm hoping that with the warmer weather I'll be able to get a few more walks in during the week.

I'm looking forward to a busy week and finding out (hopefully) what the sex of our baby is on Thursday!

Under Construction

2011-02-24T10:01:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, Matt began tearing out our hardwood floors that were damaged in our washing machine incident during the ice storm. I always forget how messy and crazy your house becomes when it's "under construction". All the furniture is moved out, there are tools everywhere, the garage is filled with stuff. It's just madness.

I'm happy to get started with the process though. Once the floors are complete then we get to start working on the new nursery and Madi's new big girl room! Can't wait to start those rooms. I only have 21 more weeks until the new baby arrives, it seems to be inching closer and closer and I know it will be here before I know it!

I took some pics this morning of the mess in our home, but I will have to post later. I left my camera at home :)

Our Chosen Names

2011-02-21T14:07:00.001-06:00

After a long, late-night discussion, we decided our baby names. I love them both so much, I almost wish I was having twins :)

Boy: Crosby Andrew
Crosby a name with special meaning. Andrew because it was our boy name for Madi and we just can't part with it.

Girl: Taylor Nichole
Taylor has always been at the top of our list. We have loved it for years. Nichole is my middle name.

Only 10 more days until we learn which name gets to come home with us!

I survived....

2011-02-15T12:44:00.002-06:00

I don't think I've ever been so sick. Last Thursday, the stomach virus Madi had hit me. I was sick. And I mean really, really sick. Food wouldn't stay down, liquids wouldn't stay down. I was miserable and laid on the couch. When I did feel better, I'd deceive myself into thinking I was well, I'd eat, and then be sick all night.

Finally, Sunday afternoon when I sent a text to Jen that basically said, "On my way to Walmart, think I'm going to have a mental breakdown." she replied in many texts with a nice but firm, "Call you dr ASAP." Thankful for a friend that responded to my text and happens to know (work with) and love my Dr. So the advice was definitely needed and appreciated. The push I needed to get well, that's for sure.

Dr. N asked me to go to the ER to be checked out, which I did, and got fluids. I was mildly dehydrated and have a UTI. Thankfully I didn't have to spend the night and I felt much better by Monday afternoon.

We find out in just over two weeks but Baby P #2 is. I can't wait. We finally picked our names last night, I just haven't decided when we're going to reveal them yet!

(I posted this to the baby's private site, so if you think you're reading it twice, then you are correct. I wanted to have it on both blogs)

Hair & Beauty Tip

2011-02-11T11:38:00.000-06:00

I am excited to finally be participating in Kelly's "Show Us Your Life" Friday link-ups. I don't think I've participated since the fall and I forgot how much I enjoy having a prompt every now and then for my posts.

This weeks topic is "Hair & Beauty Tips". I'm actually looking forward to checking out others posts on the topic because right now I'm in a "I'm pregnant and don't care" routine. Below is a break-down of my daily routine.

Face

I use Origins facial soap (love it and it lasts forever) and Aveeno moisturizer
I love Loreal's Bare Essentials powder, it's light and covers just enough that your face isn't bare, but I don't feel like I have globs of make-up on.
Cover girl blush and eye shadow, Maybelline mascara
I switch between a Loreal lipstick that I love and a MAC color depending on my mood

Hair

Right now I'm using Pantine for straight hair. I actually love Pantene but would like to try something else soon.
I just dry my hair with a round brush. If I'm ambitious I'll use a flat iron, otherwise I just spray and go.

What are your tips? Suggestions? Product loves?

A "Roast & Toast" Party

2011-02-08T10:53:00.000-06:00

I found the idea of a "Roast & Toast" party here. I loved the idea of "roasting" s'more and "toasting" our birthday girl and of course the food, the coziness and fun the party entails. So, you know I couldn't wait to host my own party. There wasn't a better person I could have thrown this party for than Hillary. She was celebrating her 21st birthday and her party, mixed with all the cold we've had lately, combined for a fabulous evening of food, friends and wine!

Pics, starting at the top left corner and going clockwise: I made the cupcakes and loved how the rose tops turned out. Pavola, my favorite dessert to make; the hot cocoa cups, Hillary, my homemade marshmallows and the s'more ingredients, marshmallows dipped in chocolate and graham crackers.

Snowmagedon 2011

2011-02-08T10:47:00.001-06:00

You may have heard that North Texas was hit with a pretty big ice storm last week. It was awful! I love the snow, but what we had was about 3 inches of pure ice. You couldn't drive on the roads, the temps were in the teens, and you essentially couldn't leave your home for days.

To top it off, Madi got a horrible stomach virus and our washing machine drain pipe froze and flooded our entire downstairs.

Let's just say if I never see ice again I will be a happy woman. Below are a few pics from the 5+ inches of snow that fell on Friday.

Parenting Vs the BlackBerry

2011-02-02T14:06:00.000-06:00

Some great articles for just about every parent I know, or who knows me.

Washington Post - "AnyBody: Parents are ignoring their kids for BlackBerry "

Parenting - Tech Time: Are we forgoing our kids for technology?

I have tried very hard to limit the time I am on my laptop or blackberry when Madi is present. Being at work in my office makes it alot easier, obviously, to being "connected". But since I spend 50% of my time working from home, I do know that there are times I have to be responding to an email or putting out a crisis while Madi is awake.

I've really tried to my a conscience choice to limited my laptop, cellphone, email checking, FB status updates, etc etc time while Madi is awake. It's hard, but at some point, can't we just put down our cellphones and play with our kids?

Weekend Recap

2011-01-31T15:03:00.000-06:00

What a fabulous weekend we experienced. On Saturday, we took Madi to the Stock Show with her grandparents. I have to say, some of my fondest childhood memories are going to the Stock Show and Rodeo with my grandparents. We would get up at the crack of dawn, meet for donuts and be in the parking lot by 8am. We'd walk through a few barns and then head over to the coliseum for the Rodeo. When we were little, we'd have a picnic lunch near our cars and then walk the barns some more. As we got older, we'd walk the barns then meet for Mexican food before heading home.

I love the memories I have of the Rodeo and I'm beyond thrilled that Madi got to experience her first Stock Show (the Rodeo will come next year) with Matt and I and her Gi and PopPop. She had a great time checking out the children's barn, visitng a petting zoo, walking the Expo hall and then seeing some of the barns with lamb, sheep and cows.

We stopped for lunch on the way home and Madi was a perfect angel. I know this year probably won't be a year that Madi will remember, but I will, and I can't wait for more visits as she gets older.

Sunday was a beautiful morning. I let Madi play outside while I washed all our downstairs windows. She had a great time playing with Cornbread, taking her babies for drives in her car and blowing thousands of bubbles.

I don't know that I could have planned a more perfect weekend for us. I am so incredibly blessed and I'm truly thankful to have spent such a memorable weekend with my little family.

A post mainly for me

2011-01-30T08:09:00.000-06:00

I needed a post for a keepsake of some of the funny things Madi is saying at the moment:

"I want" - which actually means, "I don't want to" and is usually said while throwing a fit.
"Happy plate" - when she cleans her plate she says that she's made a "happy plate"
"Oh My Gosh" - we are trying to correct this statement, but I was called out on it 3 times yesterday.
"Hee Haw" - that's what a donkey says
"I missed me" - what she says when she misses someone.

I need sleep!

2011-01-27T11:40:00.000-06:00

Madi was a perfect night time sleeper from 4 months until about 22 months. She went to bed at the same time every night, we had a great bedtime routine (bath, jammies, teeth brushed, book, rocking for a few minutes, prayer and sleep). The only time she woke up during the night was if she was sick.

After a night of 11-12 solid hours of sleep, she'd wake up in a bright and cheerful mood! It was HEAVEN!

A few months ago we made the transition to a toddler bed and it's been pure HELL ever since. At first she would go to bed easily. We'd read, sing, I'd lay her in bed, shut the door, and she'd go to sleep. But she was waking up very early and always in a grumpy mood.

Then she stopped going to bed easily and it became a fuss. She didn't want to go to bed, we needed to read another book, she came downstairs, she woke up 2 or 3 times a night. It was chaos!

The holidays through us off a bit too. We let Madi stay up later. She slept in our bed when we had house guests. We'd let her fall asleep on our bed and then move her to her bed. But she was STILL getting up in the night.

Now, I'm just at my wits end. We still have our routine, but she fights me the entire time. She wants to go downstairs, she wants to "sleep in mom and dad's bed", she wants to lay on the couch. When I finally do get her in bed, she kicks the covers off, she doesn't want to watch Thomas, etc etc etc.

Last night, she went to bed at 8:45 and was wide-awake from midnight until 3:30. That was after Matt tried to get her to go to sleep, gave up around 1am and brought her to our bed. She laid in bed with us for 2 hours and then I took her back to her bed and made her stay there.

I am exhausted! I want the baby that sleeps through the night back!

I'm hoping that by us staying consistent with our night time routine that she will eventually get back into the habit of falling asleep in bed and staying there. Keep your fingers crossed for us!

My cupcake

2011-01-23T13:06:00.001-06:00

Madi and I baked Valentine's cupcakes this week. She is just too precious for words these days. She helped me put everything into the mixing bowl, she cracks the eggs, turns on the mixer, and of course she likes to eat the batter.

I love this age. She enjoys doing everything that her Mommy is doing. She wants to help, she understands simple tasks and her personality is just blossoming.

I am definitely in love with this little cupcake!

Misc.

2011-01-18T14:40:00.000-06:00

I've been trying to write a new post for a week. I'm just not motivated at the moment to come up with anything meaningful or eventful to say. So, here's a bit of what's been going on:

Madi is now in the Older Two's class at school. Thankfully, most of her friends moved into her new class this week with her.
I spent Friday night and Saturday in Denver. It was a quick trip but at least I got my job accomplished and got to eat some good hotel food.
I read a novel that has literally changed my perception of my life and relationships. It wasn't anything exciting, a chick-lit book, but the storyline has made me think lot this week about what I want out of my life and the relationships I engage in and how I spent my time and with whom.
Madi and I baked cupcakes today. I just love baking with her and I'm hoping that one day she'll love baking and cooking on her own as much as I do.
Even though I swore I wasn't watching the Bachelor this season, I'm actually enjoying it. I have a couple of favorites and it cracks me up each week when Matt says, "Seriously, how many texts can you send and receive in a two hour period." Ha ha, if he only knew :)

Have a great week!

In Hot Water

2011-01-10T14:31:00.000-06:00

Today I wish I had hot water!

Last night our hot water tank (located in our attic) burst and we had water dripping through the ceiling both upstairs and downstairs. A huge mess was what we had!!

Thankfully, my night-owl of a husband, was still awake when the burst happened. When he realized the ceiling was leaking he was able quickly shut it off. It does look like we have some repairs that will need to be done to our ceiling and of course, we have to by a new hot water tank.

The up-side, I'm married to a builder. He knows how to fix and install the tank (he's already done one for a neighbor) and thankfully, we won't have to call a plumber to come install it. Eventually, he'll also be able to repair the ceiling as well.

The down-side. I had to wash my hair in the sink this morning with water I had boiled on the stove-top. I felt like Laura Ingles. I kept thinking I needed a tin tub in the kitchen so I could have a good ole' fashion bath :)

But I must say, as my hubby is out doing some pricing on the water tanks.... I really like sleeping next to a handy-man (especially in situations like this) because He definitely does come in handy!

Sometimes Karma isn't a bitch.....

2011-01-09T19:41:00.004-06:00

You know the old saying, "Karma's a Bitch?" Well, sometimes its not. Sometimes Karma actually works out for the positive. Sometimes good things do come of crappy situations and while Karma may be a bitch for someone else, I'm happy when it's not a bitch for me. Has this ever happened to you? Where you stop and think, "Karma is good."

On another note, I have a pet peeve. It's small and insignificant really, but still thought I'd share (more as a reminder to myself not to act this way).....I found over the holiday season that I would become irritated when I asked someone how their Christmas was and all I got was a simple reply without so much more as a "and how was your Christmas?". When did it become ok not to reciprocate a question, or maybe people have just forgotten how to have a conversation?

Also, I'm so happy when people remember that sometimes it really is the invitation that matters and not the fact that I'm probably going to say "no" because I have a toddler, or you're going to an adult place, or I'm pregnant and exhausted all the time. I love that there are people in my life that still remember to ask us out, even when they probably know in advance that we'll decline the offer.

I've got a busy week planned. I'm making a quick visit to Denver for a site visit with clients, I'm hoping there isn't too much snow in Denver. But I won't lie, I'm glad we'll be having cold weather early in the week so I can reaclimate myself to the cold temps before I get to DEN :)