Kid With Kids

Welcome 2012--The Year of The Lizard

2012-01-01T09:40:00.003-06:00

Oh 2011. I'd love to write all about the marvelous things that happened in 2011, but to be honest I pretty much just babied my way through it. Cried about this, cried about that. I did some pretty cool things that mostly turned to shit and I spent an insane amount of time dying on my living room sofa. BUT... if I can take away one measly little thing from 2011, it's this...

While I was in the hospital this summer (sorry guys, this sickness took up the majority of my year and you still have to hear about it), I had been in the ICU for a few days and was considering moving on to a big bad regular room. My favorite nurse, Monica, was trying to convince me to stay. Oh Monica, I loved her so. She listened to my drug-faced rambles and handed me toilet paper when I could barely move my shoulders. I think she was going to miss me ;) She told me that the regular rooms were basically the hog trough, you were fending for yourself, sister. Nobody was going to wait on me hand and foot or give a shit if I ate or not. I had decided to go ahead anyway, mostly due to the enormous cost of hanging out in an ICU bed. Monica was helping my emaciated ass to the transfer bed when she surprisingly said, "Wow! I didn't know you were that strong!" In my half-cognizant dillaudid-induced state, I looked at her and replied, "Monica, look at me. I'm young and resilient."
And yaknowwhat? I freaking am.

So this is my year. Yep, mine.
Happy New Year! I wish you all the blessings and happiness a year can hold.
Love,
The Lizard

2011-12-17T17:51:00.001-06:00

Today I loaded up the boys and headed downtown for some Christmas fun. We got there a little bit early, which left us enough time to drink hot cocoa and listen to some live Christmas music. Mobile had Bienville Square set up for balloon animals, face painting, and Christmas karaoke. After all of that fun, there was a Christmas parade. The boys enjoyed it (until the balloon animals popped) and I loved every minute (until the balloon animals popped). Tonight I think we'll snuggle up with more hot cocoa and a movie. This might be my favorite day of the year.

Thanksgiving Dessert

2011-11-19T13:01:00.001-06:00

After watching the Bobby Flay/Ree Drummond showdown last year, I knew I had to try out that pumpkin bread pudding for Thanksgiving dessert. Let me tell you, it was delish! I really don't like pumpkin bread or bread pudding (I'm an alien), but this was fantastic. I actually made it over two days to allow the bread to cool and because I had a child with full blown I'm Two and I Rule the World Syndrome. I had to substitute a lot of things since I didn't have the proper ingredients and ended up completely dumping the Spicy Caramel Apple Sauce. It called for Apple Schnapps, I bought Apple Pucker. It needed star anise, I substituted Tazo tea (the wrong kind). Anyway, it just got lost in translation, so I nixed it. The dish was still fantastic with the bread pudding and vanilla anglaise. If you're a last minute Thanksgiving-er, like me, try this dessert to mix it up this year! It was a hit with family and friends. Everyone really enjoyed having a different type of pumpkin dessert. Yum yum!

So here's the recipe straight from Food Network:

Ingredients

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped
6 large egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 cup pure canned pumpkin puree
2 tablespoons bourbon
Pumpkin Bread, toasted and cubed, recipe follows
Vanilla Bean Creme Anglaise, recipe follows
Spicy Caramel Apple Sauce, recipe follows
Freshly whipped cream

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Combine the cream, milk, vanilla bean and seeds in a small saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer.

Whisk together the yolks, sugar, maple syrup, and pumpkin puree in a large bowl. Slowly whisk in the hot cream mixture until combined, remove the vanilla pod, and whisk in the bourbon. Strain the custard into a clean bowl.

Scatter the pumpkin bread cubes in a buttered 9 by 13-inch baking glass baking dish. Pour the custard over the bread, pressing down on the bread to totally submerge it in the custard. Let sit for 15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up some of the custard.

Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and pour hot tap water into the roasting pan until it comes half way up the sides of the glass dish. Bake until the sides are slightly puffed and the center jiggles slightly, about 1 hour.

Remove from the oven and water bath and cool on a baking rack for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Spoon some of the Vanilla Bean Creme Anglaise into a shallow bowl, top with some of the bread pudding and drizzle with the Spicy Caramel Apple Sauce. Top with freshly whipped cream. Bread pudding is best served warm.

Pumpkin Bread:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, plus more for greasing
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
8 ounces (scant 1 cup) canned unsweetened pumpkin puree
2 large eggs
2/3 cup water

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter or lightly spray the bottom and sides of a 9-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a small bowl.

In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the 4 tablespoons softened butter, sugar, and oil at high speed until light and fluffy, about 1 minute, scraping down the sides and bottom of the bowl a few times.

Add the pumpkin puree and mix until combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix until just incorporated. At low speed, slowly add the flour mixture and water and mix until just combined. Spread the batter into the prepared pan and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 60 to 75 minutes. Let cool in the pan on a baking rack for 10 minutes. Remove from the pan and let cool completely.

Once the bread is cool, slice in half lengthwise, and then slice each half into 1/2-inch cubes. Spread the cubes on a large baking sheet and bake in a 325 degree oven until lightly toasted, turning once, about 20 minutes. Let cool.

Vanilla Bean Creme Anglaise:

2 cups half-and-half
1/2 vanilla bean, seeds scraped
5 large egg yolks
1/3 cup pure cane sugar

Bring the half-and-half and vanilla bean and seeds to a simmer in a medium saucepan.

Whisk together the yolks and sugar in a medium bowl until at the pale ribbon stage. Slowly whisk in the hot half-and-half, return the mixture to the pot, and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the mixture coats the back of the spoon. Strain into a bowl and set over an ice bath. Stir until chilled. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.

Spicy Caramel Apple Sauce:

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup apple juice
1 star anise
1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
4 whole cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon apple schnapps

Combine the cream, apple juice, star anise, ginger, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and nutmeg in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer. Remove from the heat and let steep for at least 20 minutes. Strain the mixture into a clean, small saucepan and place back over low heat while you make the caramel.

Combine the sugar, water and, vinegar in a medium saucepan over high heat and cook without stirring, until it's a deep amber color, about 8 minutes. Slowly whisk in the warm cream mixture a little at a time, and continue whisking until smooth. Add the apple schnapps and cook for 30 seconds longer. Transfer to a bowl and keep warm. The sauce can be made 2 days in advance and refrigerated. Reheat over low heat before serving.

Happy Thanksgiving! Don't forget to tell those special people how thankful you are for them!

What Kind Of Day Will You Have?

2011-11-17T17:45:00.001-06:00

Saw this here and thought it would be great to pass along.

"I woke up early today, excited over all I get to do before the clock strikes midnight; I have responsibilities to fulfill today. I am important. My job is to choose what kind of day I'm going to have. Today I can complain because the weather is rainy, or I can be thankful that the grass is getting watered for free.

Today I an feel sad that I don't have more money, or I can be glad that my finances encourage me to plan my purchases wisely and guide me away from waste. Today I can grumble about my health, or I can rejoice that I am alive. Today I can lament over all that my parents didn't give me when I was growing up, or I can feel grateful that they allowed me to be born.

Today I can cry because roses have thorns, or I can celebrate that thorns have roses. Today I can mourn my lack of friends, or I can excitedly embark upon a quest to discover new relationships and rekindle old ones.

Today I can whine because I have to go to work, or I can shout for joy because I have a job to do. Today I can complain because I have to go to school, or I can eagerly open my mind and fill it with new tidbits of knowledge. Today I can murmur because I have to do housework, or I can feel honored because the Lord has provided shelter for my mind, body and soul.

Today stretches ahead of me waiting to be shaped, and here I am, the sculptor who gets to do the shaping. What today will be like is up to ME. I get to choose what kind of day I will have."

~Anonymous

It's Getting Creepy

2011-10-31T17:57:00.000-05:00

This is the first year that Jordan wanted to be something scary for Halloween.

He pulls it off.

Brynna Gets Married!

2011-10-22T18:46:00.002-05:00

Today, one of my newest close friends got married!

Brynna was the most beautiful bride.

Seriously, girl looks amazing.

The ceremony and reception were both gorgeous!

I seriously don't know how they made the reception hall look so wonderful! Brava ladies!

It was a fun day and a great chance to catch up with some good Hurley friends.

The best in Hurley coffehouse lady-visits. I love these girls more than pink starbursts.

Sweet Heather busted her tail and I really hope she is taking a nap right now.

Brynna & Heather

They officially became sisters today!

Lisa--one of Maddox's favorite people ever.

She is going to have the most spoiled baby girl in just a few months.

I'm so happy I was there for Brynna & Josh's special day!

I wish you guys all the happiness in the world.

Love you!

Jordan's First Sport

2011-10-15T17:40:00.005-05:00

Man, this boy is growing up! Today he had a basketball evaluation for this winter's season. He seems to be excited about it. He definitely loves the running. His friend from school, Cameron, was also there. It was fun to watch them buddy-up and play together. Jordan did pretty well and wasn't too focused on being perfect(he sometimes has meltdowns when he can't get things right in a few tries). He truly did have fun and now he's decided that he wants to play soccer, too! Woohoo! Go Jordan!

Look at that proud boy!

Mom and Boys Day Date

2011-10-14T23:14:00.000-05:00

Pumpkin Patch 2011--Round 1.

Jordan tries to lift a pumpkin.

I force my children to sit next to each other.

Maddox is skeptical of this hay bale. Jordan is being bribed with candy.

My boys and their painting pumpkins.

Maddox's brilliant work of art.

The husband is on nights, so we've used our days to explore.

Today Jordan had no school. Yay! There was no way were going to be cooped up all day. We headed out to the pumpkin patch in Fairhope.

Jordan picked the largest pumpkin they had while Maddox chose the smallest.

Then, the boys painted and googly-eyed a pair of pumpkins and snacked on tootsie rolls (ew!).

It was a teeny tiny patch as this was their first year in business.

We didn't stay long, but we still had so much fun!

After the patch, we were trying to stretch the time and what better way than hot dogs and ice cream (double ew!).

We hunted for a pumpkin carving kit at three different stores, who knew they would be in such short supply this season?

After the relaxing ride home(ha!), we all took a well-deserved nap.

We're looking forward to another pumpkin patch trip next week, so stay tuned!

A Portrait of His Mother

2011-10-13T16:13:00.003-05:00

I'm sure he meant this in the best way possible.

Jesus Loves Hillbillies and So Do We

2011-10-03T19:16:00.000-05:00

Tonight we had an interesting discussion at our dinner table.

My five year old is going through a very pivotal time in his life. He's learning what's acceptable to say in public and what's not. He's learning good sportsmanship and politeness. We're trying to teach him about his competitive drive and when it's appropriate.

We were discussing having love for everyone. Most of this stemmed from him kicking ass in school and telling the other kids, "Haha I beat you every time!"

He did kind of kill them at button sorting.

We're working on it.

So our conversation went...

"Jordan, we love everyone because Jesus loves everyone."

And I tried not to die laughing when he replied

"Except for the hillbillies, right?"

Oh my sweet sweet darling.

We even love the hillbillies.

This is literally 10 minutes away from our home.

Plus, they're our neighbors so we at least have to fake it.

(Didn't share that tidbit with him.)

Who else is going to provide all of our hardware, bait, tackle, paint, ice, fax, and snoball needs in one convenient location?

Love Thy Neighbor is such a difficult lesson.

Falling

2011-09-24T15:04:00.001-05:00

I usually love fall. I'm obsessed with the fashion. The temperature is just beautiful. I have a new need for baking daily. This year is a little bit different. I was very sick all summer. I spent all of the sunny days and warm rain afternoons being miserable on the couch. I slept, or wanted to, for hours each day. My kids didn't get the summer they deserve (except one of the them went to the Bahamas, so I have no sympathy). Last weekend, I wanted to hit the beach. The weather was gorgeous. I shrunk 5 inches in my waist this summer while I was dying. I had to get in that bikini while there was still some sunshine left. It was such a great day. I didn't bring my camera on purpose. Sometimes, I forget to be in the moment when I'm focused on taking a photo. We had a wonderful beach trip and I got the worst sunburn of my life. It was so glorious. Maddox had a new view of the water and is suddenly crazy about being in it. His "water issues" were such a struggle for me over the past few years. I had just resolved to let him be himself and not push the issue anymore. Then last weekend, he completely surprised me. I could not get his little tush out of the water. This is one of those times I just gave into the experience and let the boys lead the way. We ended up staying at the beach for 6 hours (reference that sunburn). Oh it was splendid! I just love days like that. If I can hit the beach and get to enjoy the changing seasons, I am all for it.

We also had a family minigolf day. It was Maddox's first time. We all had a lot of fun once we convinced Jordan that almost everyone sucks at minigolf and there's no need to spaz when you don't get a hole in 15 shots or less ;)

Right or Wrong?

2011-09-24T14:13:00.000-05:00

Sometimes my right/wrong gauge is a little jacked up. I hid food from my family today. It was packaged vanilla creme cookies. They ate all but three in less than 24 hours! A whole stinkin' package. Seriously, why did they even leave three cookies? I was totally going to use those to bribe the kids this week and now they're pretty much gone. So I hid them. It may be wrong, but it feels so right. To add to my trickery, I hid them behind actual food, apples. They must eat a real fruit in order to acquire cookies!

Mwahaha!

Wordless Tuesday (because I have nothing interesting to say)

2011-09-06T16:06:00.001-05:00

Okra

2011-08-30T18:48:00.001-05:00

We love gardens. And people. And people with gardens. We like okra. We like people with gardens of okra. We immensely appreciate their generosity. People with gardens of okra, we love yall...But please, for the love of sweet Abe Lincoln's Mama, no more okra.

It's starting to have negative effects.

Okra-induced ridiculousness

For reals.

..Or it was all that wine?

Duck mouth fail?

One of the two, definitely.

Pete's Party Castle

2011-08-06T17:14:00.000-05:00

We had such a fun time at Pete's Party Castle today. It wasn't far from home, not too expensive, and was a great escape from the heat. The boys played games, had pizza, rode a train, and played in the castle.

Did I mention we got to meet a dragon?!

It was such a fun time. The boys really enjoyed themselves. Everyone ate well, played nice, and got prizes. I call that a win, my friends.

I hope your Saturday was as fun as ours!

Let's Play Catch Up (Picture Heavy)

2011-08-02T15:09:00.001-05:00

I almost died, so I wasn't blogging. My bad.

Here's what we've been up to this summer!

Kite Flying!

Jordan was a champ at the Dentist! Look at those beauties!

Jordan had spirit week at preschool and rocked it at crazy hair day.

Having fun at Field Day!

We started our move and popped out the old costumes! The last time Maddox wore this I had a panic attack!

We did some gardening. We grew little sprouts, but nothing beyond that.

Jordan put on a graduation program and dressed as what he wants to be when he grows up--a "Sea Creature Explorer"

And he graduated preschool! Here we come Kindergarten!

Grandpa and Nana came to help us move into a new house.

Maddox got a new haircut that he loves! Can you tell?

Since Mommy's still not 100%, Daddy has been spending loads of time with the boys. They have done projects galore and had a blast.

And most recently, Maddox had a birthday! He is 3 years old!

See ya soon!

Maddox Turns 3

2011-07-31T11:58:00.000-05:00

Oh My Maddox!

You are such a little boy now. You are growing by leaps and bounds. You're learning so much. I love hearing your sweet voice. My favorite is when out of nowhere you say, "Mama, I love you." Oh you just melt me!

You love to be outside and doing anything with Daddy. You guys are best buds. You are turning into quite the little brother, too. You and Jordan spend a lot of time going at it, but you can't stand it when he's gone.

I want to take this letter to tell you how important you are to me. You hold a HUGE chunk of my heart. When I couldn't see you for a week while I was sick, I felt so lonely without my angel. We spend the most time together and I missed you so much. Your smile lights me up. Your laugh is the most wonderful thing in this world. Thank you for always being yourself, Maddox. You are great!

Let's make the 3's awesome!

I love you as big as the sky.

Mom

Wandering, Seeking, Feeling

2011-06-07T15:01:00.004-05:00

Life is so much better when you're thankful, when you seek out things to be thankful for.
Sometimes I get pulled into a total whirlwind of business. I knew it would be this way during the past few weeks. We moved, I've been very sick, and I've really just been letting life get the best of me. There hasn't been a day that I feel like I can handle. I feel so numb and blah and asdkfaj.

Then I remember:
"I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John 10:10b)
To the full. Not to the numb. Not to the blah. Not to the asdkaj.

I literally just wander around my house. I'm thankful for this life. I really am. Thankful for the things I have, the person God has made me, our children, our overflowing abundance of "stuff". So I wander. I write. I remember. I seek out the things I am thankful for, why I am thankful for them, why I have them, who gave them to me. God gave me this incredible family. Wow. The casual disinterest I have for all things starts to melt away. My appetite for life slowly returns. I organize the bathroom because it's the first thing I feel I want to do in weeks. I open the windows to hear the birds chirping with thunderstorms in the distance. I pop outside with my baby to run around with dogs that have made our porch their newest hangout. I feel like doing these things.

I wander and make lists of things I am thankful for. Maddox's giggle. A tape gun that made our move a bit more bearable. An old phonebook that has been my lifesaver while having no internet for two weeks (at least half of the numbers worked ;) A husband who makes any place feel like home. Jordan, my adventure-loving boy, and the life he brings into the room. Having people in my life that are worth missing and worth the wait to see again.

I am so very thankful that I have been given this life to live abundantly. Seeking gratefulness brings me here. I feel things again. He strengthens me and I delightfully reenter this life I have been blessed with.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

Oh, How They Grow!

2011-05-15T08:46:00.000-05:00

There's my angel.

Just a few days old.

He had a lot of hair, so I gave him a mohawk.

(Give me a break, I was 16.)

He slept on his little blankie.

He needed me for everything.

He was such a good baby.

A great sleeper.

A snuggler from day one.

But he didn't have a choice.

Then he grew up.

And had crazy hair day at school, so I gave him a mohawk again.

He hardly needs me for anything.

He's still such a good boy.

He still snuggles when he's feeling blue.

He starts Kindergarten this year.

I wish he would slow down.

He changed my life so dramatically.

And I love him for that.

And just for being himself.

His sweet, sensitive, loving, goofy self.

"When you reach for the stars
Don't forget who you are
And please don't turn around and grow up way too fast."

Marital Problems?

2011-05-15T08:44:00.000-05:00

Marital problems?

Let me offer some advice.

After all, I ~~do know everything~~ ~~got it going on~~ am here to help.

Trust me, this works.

First, you dice a jalapeño.

Then, you watch your hubs mistake said jalapeño for green bell pepper.

Let him say, "Mmm, these peppers look good."

Have your mouth too full of guac to correct him.

Watch him panic. First, from the flavor confusion. Second, from the insane burn occupying his mouth.

Let all the leaving up of the toilet seat and snoring melt away as you laugh your face off.

If you have real problems, this probably isn't a good idea. Just sayin'.

And you're welcome.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-07T20:10:00.003-05:00

I saw this video and it makes me think of my sweet angel boys.

Oh, I'm so lucky to be a mommy!

I'm so thankful for my boys this mother's day.

Jordan & Maddox,

I love you. I love you. I love you.
Thanks for loving and laughing with me everyday.
Kisses for my boys!

Vegas? Vegas. Vegas!

2011-04-29T11:57:00.003-05:00

Here we go. Vegas trip. It was a much anticipated escape that was...hmm...Vegas-y.
Whatever you think would be in Sin City, it's definitely there.
And people, stop bringing your kids. Especially on the strip at midnight. Honestly. Okay, done with that.

Let's start at the beginning, yes?

We got into Vegas around 10:30 in the morning. Hotel check-in wasn't until 3 or something like that. My memories of that day are, um, blurry...because I didn't have my contacts in ;)

We had time to spare and what better place to spare it than Caesar's Palace. We wanted to go to other places in that giant block of time, but....we got lost in there then we found this NUMB bar then had these twenty dollar drinks then these guys said "it doesn't count unless you get an extra shot" and I was all, "Yeah, this random wasted citizen is probably right, let's do this" and then I was actually numb and then my husband had to pee every ten seconds and then I almost bought a $400 dress while my husband was in the bathroom and then...

Maybe what happens in Las Vegas should actually stay there..

One night we hung out on Fremont Street. It's the original Vegas experience. There were showgirls, zipliners overhead, lots of neon, and every tribute artist you can imagine, including Bret Michaels--my dream boy. Just kidding. Kind of.
We were starving and stopped into Binion's Casino for a bite. They had this itty bitty cafe with the best prices and the biggest portions. That's my chili cheese dog up there in the picture. You can't actually see the dog part. It was massive and only cost $3.75. Score. A lady in the cafe ordered a club sandwich that was bigger than my head. It was awesome. I really wanted a bite. I would go back in time to have a bite of that baby. I love food, especially giant food.

My favorite thing about Vegas was the mountains all around. The view of the them from our hotel room and the top of the Stratosphere Tower was nothing short of incredible. I wish we would have gone up at night to get some better pictures of the Strip, but that's it in the daytime in the top right. Have I ever told you guys that I don't know my left from right? I've made it through life without knowing that. Just now I typed out top left, stuck both of my hands up in "L" shapes to realize I was wrong about which side the picture was on. It's just one of those weird things about me. I think Drew hates when I give him directions. Moving on...

We spent a lot of time at the Venetian. It was definitely our favorite place. All of the fountains, paintings, sculptures, statues, sinful shopping, sweet little toothless Italian man saying "You Italian, I never wrong, we blood, this is a beauitful thing!", gondola rides, more sinful shopping, restaurants, jewelry, brides, Blue Man group-fantastic and magnificently sober!

On Wendesday, we spent a little bit of time at the Bellagio. The fountains there are fun to watch and the gardens were very pretty. We didn't stay too long because it was insanely crowded and I had a fever :(

There was plenty of sightseeing and casinos to go in. We spent some time at Circus Circus's Adventuredome. That was fun but chaotic. We rode a few rides and got outta there. Drew's stomach couldn't handle my appetite for crazy, twisty, turny, upside-downy, drop-your-guts rides. After putting it that way, I guess I don't blame him.

And finally, what we've all been waiting for...the Lamborghini.

But first, you will have to endure a bunch of car pictures 'cause I didn't take 'em for nothin'!

Here's Drew in a Ferrari 430 Scuderia and a Lamborghini Gallardo.

Lamborghini Murcielago. The one everyone thinks of with the doors and stuff. Gorgeous car, but the hardest to drive.

Woo! Now this car, mmhmm. 2011 Lamborghini Superleggera. This car was my boo. I want one.

Audi R8. This would be my everyday car. Ya know, Walmart, Post Office, bank, preschool pickup. I can just see me now. You can, too, right? Completely doable.

And the man of the hour...

Getting ready for the drive!

He's off!

And what happens on the last night in Vegas, definitely stays there! Whew!

Beautiful

2011-04-26T17:33:00.001-05:00

If your fears and reservations won't let you get on an airplane, please reconsider.

You don't get to witness all of this with both feet on the ground.

Thank you, God, for this little piece of your beauty.

HAY!

2011-04-04T14:48:00.002-05:00

Maddox loves to play in the grass! In the Fall, he and Jordan play in the dead grass, throw it in the air and yell, "HAY!"

Jordan was too preoccupied playing with the cousins, so Maddox just plopped in the (not so dead) grass and played by himself.

This face is just stunning.

Handsome boy.

Hey! How are you? Yeah, so anyway...

2011-04-02T18:10:00.001-05:00

Someone said that once in a phone conversation. It wasn't me. For real this time. Someone I'm very close to though.

I took some pictures of myself yesterday and I would hate for my hair and makeup to go to waste.
Here's some stuff about me me me :) Did I mention this post is about ME?

1. I love to make lists, schedules, charts, etc. Never in my life have come close to sticking to one of them.

2. When Drew and I first met, I cooked him Thai salmon, string beans, cabbage, zucchini, rice, and sweet potatoes. As if that doesn't sound like a splendid combination already, I completely wrecked it! I was showing off, so I bought the hugest hunk of salmon I could find and tried to cook it all in my poor poor $6 saucepan. The rice was crunchy, everything else was salty. The salmon was undercooked, poorly seasoned, just inedible. He tried so hard to eat it and I was thoroughly embarrassed. I still want to hide every time he mentions it.

3. I'm allergic to the outdoors. Trees, grasses, pollen, all that stuff. Want some irony? I married a farmboy from Oklahoma. Brilliant!

4. I still doodle my name like I did in 6th grade. I even do bubble letters when I'm feeling ambitious.

5. My fingernail polish is always either chipped or not there at all. I know this is a colossal sin against women.

6. My never ending list of insecurities includes my armpits, knees, pinky toes, and hairline.

7. Sometimes I pluck my hairline so that I can wear a ponytail with confidence. I realize I'm ridiculous.

8. I tried 237843424 times to give myself a tattoo with a sewing needle and pen ink.

9. Last year, I gave a speech about why the Loch Ness Monster is real to a room full of college students. They believed me.

10. It's an illusion that my cheeks are so squishy and pinchable. They are actually muscular from all of the laughing and smiling I do :)

11. I don't diet. I can't diet. I won't diet. I neeeed steak and potatoes. and pasta. and glorious white bread.

12. I would give at least 2 fingers and shave an eyebrow to not be bugged while I'm in the bathroom.

13. I'm the queen of ugly/creepy/scary faces. My nose can look really jacked up.

14. I lived on Guam for a small time in high school. I wish I would have spent less time plotting my escape and more time soaking up the culture and sunshine.

15. I don't feel as short as I am. Sometimes my jeans remind me.

16. I've only dated people with brown eyes.

17. When I was 8, I had a dream that the devil's eyes were looking through my window. I can still remember it. It doesn't take much to scare me anyway, but that was some freaky stuff.

18. Which reminds me, when I was 8, my best friend Natasha tried to smother me with a pillow on my bed. She has scarred me for life.

19. I was on a few television shows and commercials as a child. One in particular, was listening to an author reading a group of kids, including me, her book. They zoomed in on me and I scratched my UPPER LIP. My brother said I was picking my boogers and my heart was broken. I wonder how long I cried after he said that. Any idea, Mom? Did I mention I'm sensitive?

20. I only watch Justified with Drew because Timothy Olyphant is what my "Slap some handcuffs on me, Marshall" dreams are made of. tmi?

21. I once ran the dryer with my sister's cat in it. Poor Tiger.

22. I can't believe I had a child at 16 years old (and 19! Hello!). It feels like a dream. The good kind where you think your life is going to turn to crap, but God turns it around and blesses you in unbelievable ways.

23. Speaking of blessings. Some people don't know this, so a quick sharing of my Maddox miracle. In December of 2007, when my life was a mess, just found out I was pregnant and had no one on my side, I was bleeding. Those you who have been pregnant know that bleeding in the first trimester is a scary thing and can mean bad news. That night, a Saturday, I went to the E.R. and after a few hours, found out it did mean bad news. Something like 85% blood surrounded my sweet baby. A nurse gently told me what to expect during a miscarriage and sent me on my way. I called Drew later that night and told him. We spent the weekend together and I was cringing at every little tummy ache. I went to my doctor first thing Monday morning to learn more and after another ultrasound, she was confused about what they saw, because I had a perfect baby with a strong heartbeat. And 6 months later, perfect angel! Ta-da! The gift of life sure is a beautiful thing. I get goosebumps every time I think about those few days and what they meant for our little family.

24. The Ped-Egg is my anti-drug.

25. I'm not nearly as self-serving as this post made me seem ;)

Crap.

2011-03-30T18:53:00.001-05:00

Today I made a mistake.

Maddox had a stinky diaper.

He told me about it.

"Mama, this is called yucky yucky crap!"

I should have been the serious parent.

Who is completely in control of her emotions.

And mature.

About that...

I laughed.

I shouldn't have laughed.

Because then I kept hearing about yucky yucky crap.

I laughed again.

After the third time, I distracted him with a poptart.

Then, he called the poptart yucky yucky crap, which is kind of true.

But don't worry you serious, in-control-of-your-emotions, mature parents.

Now, he's forgotten all about it...and moved on to applying Jordan's makeup while he naps on the couch.

Biloxi Weekend

2011-03-22T12:22:00.001-05:00

We had loads of fun this weekend in Biloxi! Plenty of time with my sugar butts.

Jordan riding his bike before the weekend began.

Our first taste of fun--the Biloxi St. Patty's Day parade! We didn't know it was going on, but loved the opportunity to yell, "Throw me some beads, Mister!" Ahh, life on the coast.

Jordan was sad that he didn't catch any toys, just beads.

Life is hard and parents just don't understand.

We sat on the beach and ate sandy snacks. Yum!

We got to hang out with my sister and her kids at the beach and watch jets overhead.

My kids did not want to leave. Like wouldn't walk, or put their arms through their shirt, or stop screaming bloody murder. Joy.

The next day we went to the Blue Angels show at Keesler AFB (where M was born!)

We got to ride in the police caravan.

I was grinning the whole time.

Felt like a cool kid.

The fact that I was so giddy rules out the possibility of me actually being a cool kid.

This is the only aircraft I got a picture of.

I know, kick me in the pants!

Truth is, M wasn't having the noise level of the airshow.

Then I lost my car keys.

Then I realized they were in the van that we rode to the VIP section in.

Which was on the other side of the event.

And parked with the F/A-18s.

Inaccesibile.

Hmph.

We saw the Army's Golden Knights parachuters!

Here's one descending with the Mississippi flag.

I wish we would have seen more of the airshow. We bought some better child ear protection. Ya know, 6 minutes before we left. At least we'll be better prepared for the Pensacola show.

Looking forward to it :)

WMA Woods

2011-03-07T15:03:00.003-06:00

We went to a Wildlife Management Area the other day for some time in the woods.

We tried our usual spot, but there was a grumpy old troll blocking the bridge with his dog. "The law just done came up outta 'dem woods with two youngins in handcuffs. I reckon you best not go in dere."

We didn't go up in dere.

Drew and the boys had a lot of fun at the WMA. I had to pee the whole time.

I'm glad the boys got to do some boy stuff together.

It's a lot of fun to watch.

There goes the neighborhood...

2011-02-27T17:59:00.000-06:00

I'm baaaccckkk!

Excuses:
1. Last month, I didn't have a computer
2. The month before that I was busy.
3. The month before that I was lazy.

Forgive me if it's in your heart.

I'll give you a little update since I like you, but just a few pictures for now because I have 2000 on my camera and I can't handle that madness right this moment.
For Christmas, we visited Drew's family in Oklahoma. That was my first Christmas with the in-laws. It was a lot of fun and a nice break from reality before the new year.
January 3rd, Jordan turned five years old and I cried the week leading up to that. We had a day date, just the two of us. We went out for breakfast, saw the USS Alabama battleship, and had an ice cream sundae date. Later, we took the birthday man out for crab legs and chocolate cake.
January stayed busy and flew by.
In February, we mostly just enjoyed our little family. Drew was on the work schedule from Heaven and I got to see his face a lot more than usual. Valentine's Day came and went. We had an awesome party with our Sunday school class. I don't think we did anything else. My birthday was a couple days ago and it was lots of fun. We went to Bass Pro Shops, then H&R Block for a tax extravaganza. So that was awesome. Then we drove out to Pensacola for dinner at CRABS. Afterwards we went to Bamboo Willie's for some awesome live music. Yesterday, our Sunday school class did a yard sale benefit to help out some of our friends who have been out of work. It was incredibly successful and tons of fun. I can't wait to do it again!
I promise some picture posts in the near future, but here are a few from our Christmas trip that I love.

Park It Like It's Hot

2010-12-06T16:48:00.001-06:00

It's cold.

Today at the park, we froze our faces off.

It was nice to get out of the house though.

Somebody was in better spirits. Now he's passed out in my bed. But earlier, better spirits.

Ham-a-rooni

2010-12-04T18:47:00.001-06:00

Jordan was in bed almost all day today. He slept until 7, ate breakfast, then went back to bed until about 12:15. Poor little guy. Finally broke his fever this afternoon and he was almost back to his regular self. Still declined on the photo session.

But there's someone who didn't.

He is cute.

His name is Maddox.

He has freckles.

You'll probably want to pinch his cheeks by the time this post is over.

(I have a thing with pinching cheeks)

We always wanted to exploit Jordan's naturally handsome looks.

But I think lil' bro is going to give him a run for my his money.

Here's to hoping he'll keep this up.

I Need A Nap

2010-12-04T10:20:00.001-06:00

These are the musings of my under-slept, overstimulated mind. You have been warned.

They're in no particular order, because I don't know what order is anymore.

1. Kids really overdo stuff. Especially stuff like Toy Story 3. I've seen that movie probably 87 times already. They also overdo it on the meltdowns. Maddox had a 30 minute meltdown last night because he got the orange plate and Jordan got the green plate. They overdo it on the scream wars, too. I guess I overdo it on the kisses, smothering, and bottom-pinching. So, I'll take their overdone stuff. There was never a choice anyway.

2. I like my new camera. Yesterday I had to take a ride through the backwoods of Vancleave. I'm pretty sure they filmed Wrong Turn there. But besides the creepy, one-eyed people eaters, I found some really neat ponds and places to take pictures...hmm, maybe that's the bait.

3. I miss my family. They're just too far away.

4. I miss my husband. And I'm sick of one-uppers when it comes to missing my husband. "Yeah, well I went "x" months without seeing my husband one time." Well aren't you just the cat's meow? What an accomplishment! That's what I want to tell them. But I don't. I smile and say, "Wow! How did you do it? I'm so interested." Barf. Oh yeah, missing my husband... It stinks being without your partner. Yes, we'll be together for Christmas Day, but there's so much buildup and fun leading up to The Big Day that people sometimes don't take into account. There are parties, decorating, parades, cookies, gingerbread houses, gift buying, a lonely housewife, crafts, and bubbly little boys that he's missing out on. It makes us all so sad. Just. Not. Fair. Only two more weeks, only two more weeks...

5. I have no idea why Jordan's school is charging $20 for Santa Pictures. Now I understand the value in Bass Pro Shops: Free Santa Pictures. Oh, and a happy husband.

If this isn't a Queen leaning on a King, leave me blissfully ignorant please.

Let's Try This Again, Shall We?

2010-12-03T22:24:00.001-06:00

Today, I was waiting on pins and needles for the UPS man to get here. Ever since I've ordered my camera, I've been checking its precise location hourly via Quantum View on the UPS website. And 13 hours after he got 25 minutes away from our house, it happened.

New camera...again. But I'm more excited about this one. Maybe it was the build up...or that it's freakin' awesome. One of the two, definitely.

Anyway, I set out on a mission. "Is it possible to take 3000 pictures in a 4 hour time frame?", I asked myself. Oh yeah, sister girl is gonna find out.

It's not by the way. Don't try it because your mind will explode and your sweet little right hand index finger will be bruised. And there are only so many pictures you can take of an ornament elf's tiny wooden foot. Someone told me that, by the way. Who takes pictures of elf feet, seriously?

Jordan wasn't feeling good tonight and opted for minimal pictures. Maddox, on the other hand, was a complete HAM.

Okay, it was me.

Favorites of the Weekend

2010-11-15T11:59:00.001-06:00

This weekend was busy!

Here are a few of my favorite things...

This kid pretending he doesn't want to smile

This kid not being able to hold back a laugh at Aunt Liz

This kid's wonder, imagination, and incredible eyelashes

This kid's cheese and girliness

And...

This kid's amazing fashion choices.

I loved spending time with all the kids.

I can't believe how quickly they're all growing up.

Big Boy

2010-11-13T07:51:00.001-06:00

I miss my Jordan today.

I need that smile and that enthusiasm!

I love that boy to pieces.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-11-12T10:07:00.001-06:00

I've seen this around and thought I'd try it out. It helps when there's a lack of ideas for blogging.

Outside my window...It's a crazy beautiful day. Why are we inside?

I am thinking...about doing some extra loads of procrastination. Better get right to that.

I am thankful for...the opportunities that God gives us, and the free will to take advantage or ignore those opportunities.

From the kitchen...Cheese and crackers for Maddox, and thinking kid-friendly food this weekend. I hardly ever cook when The Man is away ;)

I am wearing...a big fluffy robe with the hood on.

I am creating...ideas for the weekend. Has anyone see the Light Before Christmas IMAX?

I am going...to clean this house. I am going to clean this house. I am going to clean this house.

I am reading...the Bible. How to Succeed at Being Yourself-Joyce Meyer. The Purpose-Driven Life-Rick Warren. Moments With You from FamilyLife. My gratitude journal--I think this helps not only log your thankfulness, but create it. It's really been a blessing to me and my family this month.

I am hoping...that I can build this next month into something incredible, instead of becoming a hermit and wasting it away.

I am hearing...Maddox answering the questions that Mickey Mouse asks him on the television. Cute.

Around the house...there are toys strewn throughout.

One of my favorite things...is Maddox's likeness to his dad. It's really adorable.

A few plans for the rest of the week: This weekend my niece and nephews are staying with me and Maddox. We're going to party, party, partay!

Without Words

Our last rose of the year.

(So, almost without words)

Peter Anderson Festival

2010-11-06T18:22:00.002-05:00

Lisa, Maddox, and I had a lot of fun today at the Peter Anderson Festival in Ocean Springs.

Oh, I just love it there.

It feels so...hip.

Little shops, artsy folks, and...wait for it...

A stinkin' whole foods store!

I mean it's not a Whole Foods, but it's a whole foods store!

I cried, laughed, smelled the workers there, and I just knew I was in a heavenly place.

We had incredible hummus at a tapas bar and completely embraced our opportunity for girl talk.

It was a much needed day out and a great time.

We're all smiles

2010-11-04T19:50:00.001-05:00

...when the bikes come out.

I was frozen, but Maddox was loving riding his bike around the driveway.

The Ultimate Transformer

2010-11-03T19:37:00.002-05:00

I remember being at the park and not wanting to play, but look for caterpillars.

I watched them, let them crawl all over me, and followed them around.

I credit this to my spectacular chart from Kindergarten showing the life cycle of a butterfly.
Really, what an amazing creature!

As I pulled into the driveway today, I noticed something on my mailbox.

I thought someone slapped some kind of slime on it during trick-or-treating.

It was actually this little fella. Check him out.

He was about four inches long and so beautiful.

One day, he'll look like this

Beautiful, beautiful.

Drew's Turn

2010-10-25T14:30:00.001-05:00

Drew had some time to play with the camera yesterday while he and Maddox were hanging out in the backyard. He's got quite an eye for capturing our boy. Here are a few of my faves.

And here's one of Jordan from today. He's being tough with his stickers from Nana!

Yahoo!

2010-10-24T15:15:00.001-05:00

So, the good thing about your camera breaking is...getting a new camera! Yahoo!

I've been fooling around with my new camera all morning and have been taking lots of pictures of things like...

Doors with spiderwebs

Viking Toys

Butter Toast

Our Little White Church

Our Little White Church Sign

A little boy in the parking lot

And my handsome husband

Next time, I'll bring a more cohesive collection ;)

Guilty

2010-10-16T11:55:00.001-05:00

Five minutes into my 103rd day as a first grader I was called into the Principal's office.

I was always told that it was spelled Principal because they're your PAL. Ha, that's not what the word around the playground was.

See, the principal got wind from the school bus driver that a gal pal and I walked up one block to the bus stop before ours. We had been going to different bus stops every day for a week causing mayhem. Ya know, stuff like Miss Mary Mack games and talking about William Gardener and his twin brother Steven, our future husbands.

"You must go to your assigned bus stop only for safety reasons."

Blah Blah Blah. I was 6 years old now. I could hold my own.

I went back to class with my partner in crime. I couldn't get my mind off of the impending doom I faced at home. Would this infraction warrant a spanking? Bare bottom? Oh no. I bet the principal already called my mom at work. Then she probably called my dad. I'm going to be in front of the class counting to 50 by 2s and my dad's going to come in and spank me in front of everyone! Then what will my beloved teacher Mrs. Williams think? She's going to think I'm not worthy of my teacher's pet status! Then what? Rebecca S. will claim my spot and I will forever be...the door holder. Anything but the door holder! Oh the misery!

I got off the bus and walked quietly into the foyer. My brother teased me about something. Probably my half up side ponytail. I'm facing a death sentence and you're mocking my hair do! I barfed. Right there. Barf. I couldn't handle the guilt. It was eating me alive!

By the time Mom and Dad were home, I had decided to not tell them. I would not be the shamed door holder!

Then it happened.

"The principal called today, Elizabeth."

They said this every day jokingly. I forgot.

I couldn't handle the pressure. I cracked.

"We went to the other bus stops and we had to go...we had to go...to the principals office!"

I cried.

They laughed.

"The principal didn't really call us."

That day, I realized how consuming guilt could be. And how freeing it is to let go of it. Others may be more forgiving than you give them credit for. I faced no public humiliation or the disgrace of the forever door holder.

Every guilty person is his own hangman. --Seneca
His own.

Inspiration

2010-10-02T16:48:00.001-05:00

I have this little book. I really mean little. Every page is about the size of an index card. It's got big letters in it. I bought it at Hudson's Treasure Hunt for $1 (in quarters and maybe a couple dimes and nickels). I was 17ish and had just got my first apartment. I had two chairs and a mattress on the floor. I needed this little book. It makes me cry and laugh and I will most definitely keep it for all of my days. It's called Life Instructions for Women by Barbara Gray. When I was 17ish and alone in that apartment eating my spaghettios and rice, I would circle my favorite things in the book. I think I went through it in a few days.

It's a great thing to read. It's written for her friends and her son who asked her (when she was 40), "Don't you get tired of getting dumped on?" I love that. I bet it slapped her right up side the head.

This book is so fantastic and I'm giggling as I write this and flip through it at the same time. It's got about 3 "instructions" on every page. Sometimes she breaks with a paragraph or two about something she feels passionate about.

She offers advice like:

To thine own self be true-but still color your hair.
Banish your prejudices.
Don't buy cheap toilet paper.
Teach your sons to respect women.
Teach your daughters to respect themselves.
Don't feel weird about eating out alone.
Wear red on gloomy days.
Simplify.
Thank God that you are a woman born in America.
95% of the way we act and think is based on our self image.
Change your attitude about the things that have happened in your past.

There are hundreds more.

Today my favorite is "Read the biographies of ordinary women who led extraordinary lives."
So I googled. Found this link.
It makes me want to call my Grammy and hear about her stories.

I want my grandchildren to write about me one day.
I have such a big, giving heart, but sometimes I forget to put it into action.

Anyway this was a big ramble.
I'm just feeling a little inspired today.
October has that effect on me.
Better get going. I'm making bread for church tomorrow and it's going to change the world.

Teaching the Teacher

2010-09-14T15:08:00.001-05:00

I love that refreshing feeling when the light bulb just pops on in your head.

Let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts...
Jordan memorized his first scripture, Colossians 3:15, this week for chapel at school.
We've been applying it to different situations for the past week.
Mostly sibling rivalry, dinner time drama (can I get an Amen?), and arguing.
I'm so proud of Jordan and his willingness to listen, speak, and apply the verse.

Today has been the opposite of peaceful in my head. Frustration, bitterness, resentment, misunderstanding, confusion, everything I don't want in there. Ya know, just one of those days.

You know those times when you just want something/one to give you that justification that you're right? You're just begging for some sort of sign to prove that you're not a crazy person.

Stick with me...

Well, I sit down to read my devotions for couples today, hoping for that 'sign'. What did I get instead?

Peace.
Learn to speak the truth in love.
I read it, soaked it up. Felt less like a crazy person and much more at peace.
Then I glanced to tomorrow's devotion.
Colossians 3:15.
Let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts.
I took a deep breath, calmed down, thought about how my angelic 4 year old has applied this verse.
I thought about how trivial my frustrations can be sometimes.
I don't want to be that person. I don't want to be a grouch. And I definitely don't want to be consumed by anything that takes me away from my Peace.

I love learning from my kids. What a wonderful lesson learned from my Jordan.
This week our verse is a 1 Thessalonians 5:14 "...be patient with everyone."
I know I can learn something from that, too.
Thank God for preschool bible lessons!
I think it's the simple ones that we forget the most.

Hooray, It's Grandparent's Day!

2010-09-12T17:03:00.003-05:00


Mom, Thanks for loving these kids so much! They love you and miss you. Jordan still wonders where you are when we go to the airport and Maddox loves to talk to his Gigi on the phone (ya know, when he's in the mood). We're so proud that you're their Gigi!

Beverly and Steve, Thanks for loving our kids so much and keeping the large distance so small. Maddox misses you guys a lot (especially when we play our "Baby Love" magnet) and Jordan often asks when we can get back to "our wedding day" so he can go to Nana's.

A happy Gigi and Maddox!

Remember these days? Maddox's very first bath! Thanks for sharing that with us.


..And the Grandpa of all Grandpas! The boys love their time with you!

Thank you for being wonderful Grandparents to our kids. We love you and the boys love you so much!

Also a shout out to our own grandparents!

We are so happy and lucky that you are our grandparents. We love you so much!

More Maddox Birthday!

2010-08-25T15:11:00.002-05:00

Thanks for the pictures, Trisha!

My Widdle Baby is Two!

2010-08-22T15:32:00.001-05:00

I can't believe my sweet Maddox is two now! Luckily we were able to celebrate his birthday before things got too crazy in Oklahoma. I know he loved his birthday party (Thanks Nana and Grandpa!) and he especially loved his tractors.

My Maddox,

You are so special to me. I've never spent so much time with anyone before, but I'm so happy that it gets to be my Maddox Mouse. My favorite thing to do with you is laugh. Oh boy, do we get on a roll in a tickle war or when we tell each other secrets (Maddox thinks whispering is hilarious).

I'm so happy that you're you! You sometimes take a while to warm up, but once you do everyone can see the joy in your smile. That big grin can light up a room and I'm the lucky mom that gets to see it all the time.

You are passionate and curious. You want to know everything!

You try to be just like daddy and are well on your way.

I love to watch you learn. I'm so proud of you for being such a big boy.

You're always challenging everything. The world's answers are not enough for you. You're becoming so smart and learning something new everyday. Don't ever stop doing that. Keep challenging everything. Never settle. I know you won't.

Thanks for brightening every day of our family's. I love you so much and I'm so excited to watch you grow into a wonderful little boy.

Love,

Mama

The Many Faces of the Man I Love

2010-08-19T19:19:00.002-05:00

More fun coming soon.

Little Lil' M

2010-07-25T19:53:00.003-05:00

Today I began the massive task of packing for all of us for the three weeks of our lives.

I'm a little bit bored of Maddox's wardrobe. He's been wearing 12 months clothes for a year now with a couple 18 months pieces thrown in. I'm sick of seeing the same stuff! One of my favorite things about having kids is the unpacking of hand-me-downs. Is that weird? I just love to revisit the time when Jordan was that small and get excited because Maddox gets a whole new set of clothes that I don't have to pay for...again. So anyway, I've been itchin' to pop open the appliance sized box of 2T clothes. Since we're about to leave, I thought I'd add some new outfits in.

But these are the only things of the whole GIANT 2T box that Maddox could fit into.

Luckily I realized there was another box of 18 months sized clothes that I hadn't opened yet. My hand-me-down itch is gone (okay, it is weird) and Maddox has a bunch of new outfits for our trip.

All smiles here!

On a non-related and silly note:

This is actually what we do when we get together.

It's out of control and someone seriously needs to intervene.

2010-07-20T23:00:00.001-05:00

He was having a blast and a half at the park.

He has been so fun lately.

Even though his meltdowns are definitely terrible twos status, his happy moments far outweigh them.

16 & Pregnant

2010-07-19T21:58:00.002-05:00

I was looking for old prom pictures when I found this gem.

Oh the days...

When things were perky.

When there were no stretch marks.

When there was absolutely no threat of an impending double chin.

Then there was this angel baby who came along and made double chins cool when he paired his with a sideways hat.

Canned Potatoes Have My Heart

2010-07-13T18:33:00.002-05:00

Forget the perfect children I gave birth to.

I used to love canned potatoes as a kid.

As an adult, they've sort of freaked me out.

But then there we were-aisle 12, nobody looking, a glance, and a wink.

I had to have them.

Even though I've been trying to cut back on the prepared foods, tonight we had frozen chicken nuggets, canned potatoes, and fruit cups (in gloriously heavy syrup). Somehow we wound up with prepared cookies with an inch of pink frosting and sprinkles. The sample lady at Target was like 100 and watched me devour every type of cookie she had on that little table.

"Grab you some for home, too."

"Yes, ma'am."

You can't say no when they're 100.

Impressing Mom

2010-07-07T21:17:00.002-05:00

For my kids, I think I'm easy to impress. At least I try to be.

Maybe it's just a boy thing, but my kids are always pushing the limits to try to impress me.

Usually it's, "Mom, watch this!" and then a jump off of the rocking chair or falling tremendously hard on their knees for giggles. I don't get it, but I smile and say "Awesome!" Eh, maybe that's where the issue lies, but I like for them to have fun and be celebrated for it.

Anyway, today my silly little boy wanted to impress his mother.

It started off with the normal, "Mom, watch this!"

Then he slapped himself in the eyeball.

Like eyeball eyeball.

No eyelid.

Eye open, insert grubby little boy hand.

I asked if he was okay...

"Err no, my eye just exploded, but was it awesome?"

I told him yes and his eye miraculously unexploded.

I love my Jordan.

The Watermelon Festival Bust!

2010-07-03T14:38:00.001-05:00

Drew was supposed to be off for a magical three day weekend. Analytic, however, doesn't believe in magic. So it's just me and my sugar babies, fourth of July weekend, and nada to do.

A friend of ours posted on facebook about the Watermelon Festival not too far from here. Sounded like a great way to get out of the house and have some fun with the kids. We didn't know what to expect, but it was a cheap admission and seemed like a pretty low-budget fair. Well, everything was low-budget, except what we had to pay for like food, inflatable jumpers, sno-balls, pony rides, petting zoo, train ride...we didn't do half of those things because they were about $10 a pop, per person! Okay, the sno-balls were $6, excuuuseee me. The entertainment, oh my, the entertainment. Four 80+ year olds singing hymns...half-tempo hymns...for two hours. To add insult to injury, guess who was manning the children's activities? Just guess who you would least like to do it... Prisoners from Mobile County Metro Jail. I wish I was joking. I'm all for prisoners getting out there and working, but in charge of the children's activities? Honestly? They could have been handing out the water or helping with the sno-balls, setting up, parking lot duty, or..or..or the entertainment! I'm sure they were screened and had no history of anything to do with children *skin crawls* but it was just inappropriate to me.

Well, you win some, you lose some. And today, we were the big, fat, broke losers.

Luckily I took pictures before the spit hit the fan.

Get it? Watermelon seed spitting? No? Okay, I tried.

Birthday Extravaganza Eleganza!

2010-06-30T18:48:00.001-05:00

Okay, I guess it was no Extravaganza Eleganza, but somebody pretty incredible had a birthday this week.

It was Drew's third birthday he had to spend with me. Poor guy, I don't know how he's going to handle 60 more.

We had a normal Sunday morning. I made something sticky and fattening for breakfast then we all got ready for church way too early. We had to make sure we had enough to time to get messy before church, of course. It's kind of how we do things here.

We went to Outback Steakhouse afterward and we had a great time! The boys were loud and crazy. The Boring-ton Family sitting behind us had plenty of eye rolls and sighs, but we didn't care. All of us had a blast. There were giggles and belly laughs all around the table.

We had to pop by Walmart, but we'll skip that part.

Then, we went home for cake and gift opening.

I guess it wasn't anything incredible, but this is...

And as long as my guy got to have a moment like that, I know he couldn't have wished for anything else.

Sleeping Baby

2010-06-26T10:56:00.000-05:00

I crept into my baby's room and snapped a quick picture.

And then I melted into a puddle on the floor.

Dino-rific!

2010-06-25T12:24:00.006-05:00

Oh man, to be four again... Aren't we moms lucky that we get to see the simple pleasures all over again? Reminders that maybe we should still enjoy the simple stuff, too.

Today, Jordan got to spend his well-earned $15 on whatever he wanted at Wal-Mart. Where else would we go except the toy section? He chose those water capsule things that turn into dinosaurs and an Imaginex Triceratops.

Sidenote: Would you believe those water capsules cost three dollars?! How dare Walmart scam my baby like that!

We came home and our number one priority was getting those dinos in a bowl of H2O. The water could not get warm fast enough, but finally I was able to watch Jordan ever-so-tenderly place the colorful capsules in our Tupperware of warm water. No more than a minute later they were expanding and Jordan's eyes widened as he couldn't tell which ones were growing the quickest. I walked to the computer to check my email and Jordan was looking on the back of the package to match the spongey dinosaurs to their pictures and descriptions. "Mom can you help me match these, I can't figure it out." "Sure, bud." And before I can get out of my chair, I already have a kiss on my cheek, quickly followed by "Yahoo! Mom's the best!"

It's just those moments, ya know? He just couldn't hold back that kiss of appreciation. I got to be "the best" because I was willing to lift my rear out of this chair and hang out with my big kid. I'm so glad I didn't say no. I'm so glad I didn't say "Can you bring it in here?" I'm so glad I didn't put it off for a second. And I'm the most happy that Jordan gets that excited over spending a little Q.T. with the number one lady in his life.

Someone's stinkin' up the house. That's my cue.

We're having an incredibly blessed day and I'm hoping yours is the same.

Favorite Moments from this half of 2010

2010-06-13T14:39:00.002-05:00

Since 2010 is already half way over (This year is flying by!), I thought I'd post some favorite moments. Some you may have already seen, some you haven't. Enjoy our family's first half the year!

Jordan Blake turned four and watching Drew set him off on his own bike riding was a sweet moment to watch. Any time with the two of them bonding really gets my heart going.

My mom came to visit in February and it was so nice, well, because big kids still need their mommies sometimes!

The Jordster at the Exploreum in Mobile. After a bunch of craziness, I just left the house for a few hours and spoiled my boys for a day. It was so fun and a great time with their Mama.

Maddox and his special little garden. He loves digging around in there and getting dirty. I love to see him in his element, even if it means extra laundry.

Here's Mister M on his bike. This may be his favorite place in the world. He loves riding it up and down the driveway, though his feet still can't reach the pedals.

Drew and I made a trip to Oklahoma for some wedding planning. Here he is after a full day of errands, reading a Pottery Barn guide to wedding registry. Poor guy.

yes my table is saran-wrapped.

Here's Maddox on Easter trying to put his egg in a holder. Drew tells me sticking the tongue out while concentrating is a Wooderson thing. Funny how we're programmed with these family traits.
And my most recent favorite is having Austyn and Ryleigh visit with us for vacation bible school. They all had a blast and I'm so glad they were able to come =]

There are some favorite moments from this half of the year! The next half of the year is going to be super eventful: Drew's birthday, Maddox's birthday, wedding festivities, honeymoon, then the holiday season. I can't believe it's all coming so fast! We have been so blessed and happy this year. Couldn't ask for anything more than these wonderful family memories.

Bros Before Shows

2010-05-20T19:06:00.003-05:00

Jordan is such a great big brother to Maddox.
I love when we can turn the TV off and the boys can hang out with a book.
Jordan names the objects and Maddox repeats what he says.
It's great seeing my guys get along and learning from each other.
Makes my heart nice and full.

What the Felix?

2010-05-10T19:27:00.007-05:00

For Mother's Day we met up with my sister Stacie and had an all-day lunch at Felix's Fish Camp on the causeway. It was so great to see her and the family, but the day was kinda weird to put it mildly.
First we get there and realize we have to wait an hour and a half. Oh well, we say, let's just go hang outside for a little while and let the kids play. Once we get below the restaurant (It's on stilts), we're greeted by a fellow diner who has some random and creepy info. He tells us that the booms (used to stop the oil) they had stacked up were filled with human hair. Wow. Gross. I could have lived a million lifetimes and not seen these things without a regret in my soul. So we're curious and we take a look. Yep. Human stinkin' hair. They even had a little station used to fill the booms and there were hair clippings all over it. Not what you want to see before sitting down for lunch. They also had giant tubs of kitty litter and big black plastic bags that held the body parts of the hair owners, but you didn't hear it from me.
Then we decide to sit in the lounge area because we couldn't wait another 45 minutes to eat. Let me expand on that, we decide to sit in the lounge area next to the most depressing music you have ever heard in your life. So we're starving, grossed out by the hair sausages, and slipping into a mild depression. It was an interesting lunch that ended up lasting 4 hours, but we definitely made some memories.

Yes--the two in yellow who don't believe in smiling, those are mine.

Don't Fall Asleep at the Wheel

2010-05-09T19:01:00.003-05:00

Take it from Maddox--just pull over and take a nap.

Mother's Day

2010-05-05T20:28:00.003-05:00

In honor of Mother's Day coming up this weekend, I thought I'd feed my ego a little bit by asking Jordan what he loves about his momma. Some things did just that and others were a bit humbling.

10 Things I love about Mom (in Jordan's words)

10. Mm...it's awesome that you like playing hide-and-seek with me.
9. You're good at driving fast and slow.
8. You're good at tickling and wrestling me on the floor until I cry. (Mother of the year, baby!)
7. You're good when you go to school.
6. I like that you love me. (My personal favorite)
5. You are good at exercising. (Now we're talking. Keep 'em coming.)
4. You are good at making corn.
3. I like your freshly made cupcakes. (He was eating a Hostess, but I'll take it.)
2. You dance like a weird princess.
1. I can't think of anymore stuff I like, but you're a good poop cleaner.

...and that's what it's all about.

Bring It On, Baby!

2010-04-29T14:48:00.003-05:00

Lately I've been doing a whole lot of lifestyle changing. Working out, my diet, my kids' diet, their exercise, praying more, reading the bible more, being wonder woman, kicking the laundry's tush, managing our home more effectively, saving the environment, gardening, rewriting our foreign policy, better parenting, stuff like that.

Needless to say, I am exhausted! I have stretched myself in 209843 different directions and I'm wearing a little thin lately. I've also been having a fantastic time. Even if I'm a little frazzled, the past few weeks have really been an exciting time in my life.

I like where things are heading, and as long as I've got my guys, I think it's all gonna be alright.

Well, maybe not the foreign policy thing. Hmph.

A Star Pupil

2010-04-15T10:55:00.003-05:00

Drew has been dead set on potty training Maddox. I just got used to not potty training Jordan! Today is my first day participating in Maddox's potty training adventure and what do you know--He peed on the potty first try today! I'm so proud of him!

Pretty accurate.

2010-04-11T09:58:00.007-05:00

Jordan: Mom what's that thing?

Me: What thing?

Jordan: You know that thing that does that.

Me: Honey, I don't know what you're talking about. What does the thing look like?

Jordan: Ugh! I guess I better just ask Drew, huh? He knows everything about weird stuff.

And just for fun...This is what chocolate euphoria looks like.
Yeah, it was a little bit creepy. I can say that since I carried him for 9 months. =)

This is probably inappropriate

2010-03-25T18:33:00.002-05:00

Kids in my ear
Kids in my lap
They’re there, they’re here
What the crap?
They like to scream
They like to fight
But they get sweet late at night
In the morning, they’re whiny little farts
They can’t stand being together
They hate being apart
They love making me crazy
Until I’m pulling out my hair
But I see their innocent smiles
And it’s just not fair
Am I manic/depressive?
Have I lost my noodle?
One minute I’m yelling
Next I love them oodles
Some days feel like they go on and on
But before I know it, they’ll already be gone
How did this get mushy?
It was supposed to be a rant
If you monsters don’t straighten up,
I’m sending you to your Aunt

Love you =]

Found these on the internal memory of my camera

2010-03-24T14:34:00.008-05:00

I love running into things like these.
The baby pictures of Maddox were during that time when you thought the sleepless nights would never end. Now I'm missing it. Look at that little spikey-do!

Hodgepodge

2010-03-24T13:13:00.004-05:00

Decided to switch this baby up a little bit. I guess I was just bored with it, so I stopped blogging.

Drew and I went to Oklahoma for a few days. We got a lot of things for the wedding accomplished. Holy crap, there's a lot that goes into planning these things. It was nice to have Drew by my side the whole time. He feels like he knows what's going on now. Yes, my groom cares--or he's a good faker. I'll take it either way.

We got to visit with his family a little bit while we were there and it was my first time getting to know Joyce, his maternal grandmother. We talked politics(this went surprisingly well), parenting, and education mostly. We tried to join in with the Gene and Drew's conversation, but it didn't hold our attention for long: mechanics, military, fights...eh no thanks. As we were leaving, Gene and Joyce both had the nicest things to say and really made me feel like I'm already family.

I've been looking for a job, if the right opportunity presents itself. I need a schedule that works for my family, but is also worth my time. I've mostly looked at working at one of the casinos in Biloxi. Although that's far away, it's probably where I'll achieve the most income. Anyway, we'll see if something comes along; if it doesn't, we'll be alright.

Jordan has been warming up to the idea of school, and realizes he's not too small anymore. We can hear the school's intercom from our house and that fuels his enthusiasm even more. Now if only he'd master the buttoned pants. I know it's completely insane that my four year old can't button his pants, don't get me started.

Maddox has gained some weight. Yay! I'm happy to see my boy growing. He weighs about 21 pounds now (still below the 5th percentile). Grow, Baby, Grow!

So, here I am, back in the blogging game. Let's hope I can keep it up.

Something about Aunt Stacie's...

2010-03-19T20:03:00.003-05:00

has made my baby an angel. =]

Maddox was on his best behavior today. He let Mommy get some housework and laundry done, and he ate better than he has in a really long time.
I almost didn't know what to do with myself by the time Daddy was home. The house was clean, dinner was made, Maddox was content. It was wonderful.
I'm loving this and I hope we can have more days like today. Maddox was a doll all day long.
Thanks Aunt Stacie, maybe we'll be dropping Lil' M off more often!

A Sad Post. It's been too long, hasn't it?

2010-01-06T13:40:00.003-06:00

I had the misfortune of finding out the three worst words a Mom can hear. Well, maybe not the worst, but it sure seemed like it at the time.

Ready for it?

You sure?

failure. to. thrive.

There I said it. That is Maddox's diagnosis.
It really stings. I know that he isn't malnourished. The boy eats. He may be a little bit picky, but he eats. He takes vitamins, all that good stuff. I feel like I'm having to justify my parenting. And I feel like I've failed my own child. How could my sweet baby boy be failing to thrive?

It just hurts my heart.

Happy Birthday Jordan Blake!

2010-01-03T19:06:00.010-06:00

Here are a few of my favorite things about you

One-on-one time with Mommy has always been such a treat. You were so snuggly and lovey. We used to just play all day sometimes.

When Maddox was born, you became the best big bro a Momma could ask for. I loved watching you do sweet things for Maddox, even when you thought no one was looking. Like sticking your favorite Spiderman action figures in his crib; Now that's love.

Watching you do boy stuff is always a fun thing. It was just the two of us for awhile and it wasn't even on Mom's radar to take you fishing. Sorry, J. I'm sure Drew would love to make up for lost time.

Four years old, I can't believe it.
Another year and you have managed to impress me every day. You are so loving, so encouraging, and so eager to learn. I hope you can stay true to these things as you grow and not let the world get the best of you. I love you, Jordan. You are one cool dude.
Love,
Mom

Party at our House!

2009-12-31T11:30:00.003-06:00

Woo! We are just partyin' all week here!
We had my sister's kids, Taylor, Austyn, and Ryleigh, here for a couple days. That was fun. Jordan and Austyn are quite a pair, even though they are polar opposites. Ryleigh was so sweet and girly, I couldn't get enough! She was so sweet. Taylor was full of enlightening info, I thought I'd document a few of his hilarious comments:

-Our first night at dinner, Taylor pipes in with "Hey Aunt Liz, I remember when you lived in California with us and took how to give birth classes!"
-Later on, we were talking about Joe(my brother) and Stacie hanging out and Taylor says, "Well you know what someone needs to do, they need to teach Joe how to act!" lol, no subtlety with Taylor.
-The next day, I was talking to Taylor about when he was a baby. And he came back with "yeah, but now I'm 8 years old and I'm on my own" funny boy.

Doesn't get much better than this

2009-12-24T20:57:00.007-06:00

I love Christmas Eve, not just a little bit either. I'm head over heels for Christmas Eve. I love the traditions, I love the food, I love the excitement and anticipation for tomorrow. It just makes me all giddy and warm.

We started our evening off with a traditional Christmas Eve dinner. It was delish! Not to toot my own horn or anything, but "toot toot", ya know? Then we baked cookies for Santa, and everyone sorta participated. Maddox just wanted to eat the dough though, yea..Maddox, not me, I would never. Then we hung our special ornaments from Nana. Everyone loved theirs, but Maddox especially loved Drew's. It was a Santa with shades on. He would not let that thing out of his sight! Later we opened a small gift, read "God Gave Us Christmas" from Aunt Trisha (thanks! It was a great story!), I put the kids in their fun, new pajamas, and we put them to bed.
Now, I'm going to spend some time with my love. Do a little snuggling and eggnoggin'!
Happy Christmas Eve and the Merriest Christmas to everyone!
We love you all and wish we could spend this holiday with family.

Sorry about all the red eye!

Some fun at the Park

2009-12-23T07:56:00.006-06:00

Drew got off early on Monday and we decided to take the kids to the park. Actually, here's the truth, my kids don't wake up well..I mean, not at all (especially Maddox), and they were acting like something from the Sci-Fi channel. Neither one of us could handle the state our kids were in, so we hauled them off to the park to get some fresh air for all of us.

Uh-Oh!

2009-12-18T19:26:00.007-06:00

I'm going to get better at blogging I promise! The holidays are a very busy time and I'm just trying to make sure I have all my ducks in a row for Christmas, the new year, and Jordan's birthday. Anyway, no excuses, I'll do better.

This Christmas season has been so fun and such a blessing. Although there's not a lot to spend, being surrounded by this much love from three great guys is more than money could ever give me.

Texas trip

2009-11-20T09:54:00.005-06:00

I forgot to take my camera to Texas. I can't believe I forgot that, but I wouldn't be me without forgetting something...I just wish it would have been one of the six pairs of shoes I brought instead of the camera.

But our visit went pretty well. My favorite part of the trip was meeting my mom's dad, his wife, Marcia, and my Uncle Chris. The boys really had fun with Chris. I didn't get to see much of my brother while I was there, which was a bummer. However, I did get to have a slumber party with Miss Jazzy, my youngest (but heaviest) niece. We got to take her on a little shopping trip and kept her while Joe went to work. She did well, given she didn't know any of us. She and Maddox kept sabotaging each other. She would pull his hair, he would throw her shoes in the garbage, she would smack his forehead, he would steal her blanket. It was cute in a weird way. We went to my maternal grandmother's family reunion. It was cool to meet a bunch of people I'm related to and see pictures of my family that I didn't know existed. Jordan had a few minor tragedies while we were there, poor guy. Maddox just stuck to me like glue, as usual. My mom and I enjoyed our time together. It was nice to be able to take the drive leisurely.

On a completely different subject...Is anyone else in the Christmas spirit? I AM! I'm ready to set the tree up ASAP. I guess I'll at least wait until Thanksgiving is over, but I'm totally pumped for Christmas this year. Not sure why. I usually don't get the Christmas bug until about a week before.

Maddox Baby

2009-11-04T18:14:00.005-06:00

When Maddox fell down in the grass, Aunt Stacie turned it into a little photo op! I can't believe this is my baby.

And who is this soon-to-be four year old?!

Today at dinner, Jordan asked me if Drew is just going to be at work forever =[
We are ready for this turnaround to be over! 7-12s is no fun for any of us.
Jordan is still the best helper ever! He helps me clean his room and even hangs out with his brother if I need him to.
He loves playing outside and is really focused on honing his frisbee skills!

Maddox has totally mastered the "No!"
He also says "Jordan" "Dinosaur"(yeah, they're that popular at our house) "What's that?" "Bug" "Dog" and "Poop"
He is almost to a run now and definitely has a red-head's red-hot personality!

So, Maddox got the trick end of the deal.

2009-11-01T08:27:00.009-06:00

Yesterday was lots of fun, then not fun, then lots of fun, then not fun! Whew!

Lots of Fun
After Stacie and the kids got here, we went to Seward Farms. Taylor thought I was crazy for this being my first time going. I'd have to say, I agree. This place was so cool! They had pony rides, a corn cannon, tire swings that looked like horses, lots of playground equipment, animals, and lots of happy kids. That's what it's all about!

Not Fun
Let me paint the picture for ya.... We are walking through the muddy maze. Taylor is navigating the way with 10 questions that tell us which way to go. When answered correctly, you get out. So we're following Taylor and having a good time. I decide to stop for a little photo op of Jordan in the corn about halfway through the maze. I take my pictures and keep walking while Jordan stays in that spot. Then, Stacie tells me Jordan peed his pants! AHHH! So, poor Jordan had to walk the rest of the maze with pee-pants. Luckily, it was about time to head back home anyhow.

Lots of Fun
When we got home we had dinner and watched Ryleigh open gifts. After presents, we decided to wait for cake until later since we were all still stuffed from dinner. Drew came home early and we all got ready for trick-or-treating. I wish I would have got a good picture of us all dressed up. Stacie was a bumblebee, I was a tiger, Taylor was Darth Vader, Austyn was a red Power Ranger, Jordan was Spiderman, Ryleigh was the cutest fairy ever, and Maddox was a lion. So, we started our trick-or-treating adventure and the three big boys were loving every minute! Jordan was trying to keep up, running from house to house with the occasional face-plant.

Not Fun
After quite a few houses, Maddox was getting bored. He didn't want to walk, but was really hard to carry in his giant lion costume. To pacify him, Drew gave him a Reese's log. Neither of us thought twice about it. I'm not sure how it slipped our minds that Maddox is allergic to peanuts. And Maddox devoured that thing. Drew ran him back to the house for some Zyrtec and the rest of us ended up going home shortly after. When we got home and I took a look at my sweet angel I was totally overwhelmed. It was bad, really bad. His eye was almost swollen shut and the rest of his face had swelled up and was red and blotchy with white bumps all over. I was totally scared and we decided to go to the ER. Unfortunately, the only ER is about 35 miles away from our house. We made it there okay (thank God!) and checked right in. He was already looking better but we wanted to make sure he wasn't having any respiratory distress. They got him taken care of, but we still got to do the routine few hours of ER time. His eye was still swollen when we left, but this morning it looked better. We had quite a scare this Halloween and I never want to do that again.
This picture was about 5-10 minutes after the Reese's.

What's for lunch?

2009-10-15T13:10:00.006-05:00

Jordan: Mom, what's for lunch?

Me: Zucchini boats.

Jordan: Well, I wish I could be on a bikini boat.

...As you wish

My boys are growing up!

2009-10-10T16:28:00.005-05:00

My littlest boy, Maddox, said "thank you" today. I welled up. I'm not ready for him to be big yet. He has just become this little kid in the last month. He is just growing like a weed. He's starting to talk, run, and jump. Where did my baby go? I feel like this is all overnight. Luckily, he still likes to snuggle his momma.

Here's Jordan, posing next to his Bendaroo grasshopper and "snakey" from Nana.

Shut the front door.

2009-10-03T21:34:00.004-05:00

Someone is buying my T-Bird. I cannot believe it's going to be gone on Wednesday! I'm so excited and happy. We could totally use the extra cash now, too. Bye, Bye T-Bird. I'd like to say you'll be missed, but you won't. Maybe I'll see you again one day in the form of a stainless steel water bottle, much love.

In other news... Drew banged the Charger up twice in two days. Once, he scratched the bumper on a curb. Oops! Then, yesterday, he backed into someone in the Walmart parking lot. That created an hours worth of unnecessary drama. He backed into a 98 accord and it got a little dent and scratched up a bit. The man in the Accord was really worried though and called the cops and everything...whatever. Nothing happened to the Charger so Drew is happy that he "won". Not sure how much we'll feel like winners when the insurance bill comes =P

Our Anniversary (ya know, sort of.)

2009-10-01T20:27:00.004-05:00

Drew and I have managed to pack about 7 years of experiences into 2 years of relationship. It's been a crazy roller coaster, but at least it hasn't been dull. Can't wait to see what the future holds.

And we got a pretty awesome kid out of the deal, too.

Really, another one? Yep...

2009-09-30T21:01:00.003-05:00

So, I can't stick to one blog. Totally says something about me. I've got a gypsy's soul, what can I say? I'm really going to try this one for at least two weeks though ;]

What should I start with... how great things are going lately?... sure, that sounds great. Get used to me typing to myself, people.

Things have been wonderful in the Wooderson/Kooser/Illich house lately. We're gonna have to cut back on all of the last names though; it just doesn't make for a good doormat.

Finances are about to get better(crosses fingers!), the kids have been a blast lately, Drew and I are better than ever, everyone's spirits are sky-high. We are all just lovin' life.

I'll start with me.
-Bad news first, okay? I'm pale again. I know, I'm such a brat for complaining that I'm pale. Oh woe is Liz, no skin cancer, how DOES she do it?! But, it's awesome that it's the worst thing going on right now. And when all else fails, I still have sunless tanner to fall back on. Orange is the new tan, people, learn to love it.
-Now for the good news. I'm so happy. I'm starting school again in January. I've lost about 5 pounds so that's fun. Come on flat tummy, I know you're under there somewhere. My kids have been a little more independent so I'm able to relax a bit more.

Drew has been a little stressed at work, but things should pick up soon. I love watching him and the kids play every night. They are so funny and keep me smiling. What would I do without these guys?

Maddox is a walking machine now! And you better believe that anything at Maddox's height will be destroyed. Luckily, he's a tiny guy. He is a mini-Drew. If you haven't checked out the pictures on my facebook, you should. It's not just looks though. He's the most mechanically inclined baby I have ever seen. He can't just ride on the bike, he has to figure out how it works first.

Jordan has been such a sweet guy, as usual. He is my big helper. And now he can open the fridge, so I can exercise laziness more often. Just kidding!...kinda. He's always doing nice things for Mama. He tells Drew to get me a flower from our rose bush, and that the dinner I cooked tastes "perfect"...even if he has to wash every bite down with apple juice.

I'll end with a dinner conversation:
Drew-- "Maddox you need to tighten up, that's enough fussing"
Jordan-- "Look at me, look at me! I'm tighten up, I'm tighten up! Right?"
Drew-- "Yes, you are!"
Jordan-- "YEAAAA BOIIII!"
--no more Flava Flav for you, Jordan.

Hope you found this refreshing and that it made you smile.