And Baby Makes Three

July part 2: Coming Home and Firsts

2012-01-04T11:25:00.007-06:00

Leaving the hospital! No "coming home" pics, since my parents still had the kids when we got home, and we didn't try to conjure a coming home family pic later that night or next day. :)

Baby Girl was/is the center of attention around our house!

The kids wanted to make sure Baby Girl knew she had her very own toys. :)

My first outing with all three kids by myself: we went to Costco, ate lunch, got diapers and a few other items, and went back home. Baby Girl slept through the entire trip.

First bath: Baby Girl was not a fan!

I had good helpers!

Whew - it's all over!

Mainly just wanted a pic of Baby Girl's "lil sis" daygown...apparently she didn't want her picture taken!

At the Baron's game...always a fun event. Ray's office has it catered on one of the balcony area thingies, and they have bounce houses and face painting for the kids. It was hot, and the kids were having a ball running around...hence the sweat. :)

The three Skinner kids. Not sure what Bubs was doing here. :)

The rest of July was a blur. Having a newborn is crazy enough, but long story short, I ran a fever off and on for 2 1/2 weeks and had a few doctor's appointments after Baby Girl's birth before they figured out I had a retained placenta. That is what it sounds like, and I had to have a procedure to get it all taken out, and after that had no problems. Other than that we were just settling in to life with three kids under age 5! These pics of random little things we had going on, and a few from a Baron's game...a client event that Ray's office had.

July: the big debut

2012-01-04T11:03:00.003-06:00

My primary OB was able to deliver me. I am so thankful to have wonderful Christian doctors!

Bubs wasn't sure what to think of everything at first. He didn't like the tubes in Mommy's arm and was generally a little wigged out. :)

Mimi and Grandpaw were there...thanks for helping with the Bean and Bubs!

Grant would not sit on the bed with me since that was a little scary, so this is the closest thing we got to a family picture in the hospital.

The Bean loved her baby sister from the get-go. Here she is holding her for the first time.

Baby Girl was not as scary looking as Mommy. Here Bubs is starting to warm up to her.

Aunt Marianna and cousins Evan and Sarah Grace came to visit...

"Aunt" Jess...

*There were other visitors, but I was not as on top of taking pictures this third time around. :)

So it's been a while!! We've been busy. :) I'm going to try to catch up this blog in the coming weeks, so stick with me. The last time I posted was 18 days from my due date...and was thinking that Baby Girl (what I shall call her from here on out...Sissy didn't stick) would be early. I was wrong! She was 4 days late, born on July 16, which happened to be RR's sister's 40th birthday! What a birthday gift. And little Baby Girl is such a gift! But more on that later. Gotta stay in chronological order here. :)

Long story short, I started having contractions about two days before Baby Girl was born, off and on. I went to the doctor's office once when the contractions had been 5-10 minutes apart for a few hours, but of course they slowed down once I got there and they sent me home. I was admitted later that night, about 8 pm on July 15. I was 3 cm when we got to the hospital and it took me forever to get to 4! About 2 am on July 16, I was at about 4 1/2 or so when they gave me an epidural. That sped things up, and Baby Girl arrived around 9 am on July 16. She was 7 lbs, 13 oz and 21" long. (Side note: if any of you received our birth announcement and actually still have it or remember the date on it, ummm, that date was wrong. :) I was in a baby fog and listed her due date on the birth announcement, not her birth date. Oh well.) Baby Girl was perfectly healthy and adorable, and we were all so thankful for a healthy baby and delivery!

Baby update and an announcement

2011-06-24T17:05:00.002-06:00

So as of today, I am 18 days away from my due date. Bubs arrived 11 days early, so you never know! We are all looking forward to Sissy's arrival. (I have been mulling over code names for Baby A in the 4 (YES, 4) hours I've been blogging today...and I think I'm going with Sissy.) RR and I can't wait to see how the kids act around her. I think they'll love her to pieces. Bubs loves babies, and the Bean is already a little mama anyway. They have loved looking at all the baby toys, baby gear, infant car seat, etc. I had almost forgotten how much STUFF babies use! Almost all of Sissy's clothes are washed and put away...car seat is installed...Bubs is in his big boy room...and Sissy's room is almost ready. I've even packed her diaper bag!

And here's the announcement...we are getting rid of the internet at our house. I was the only one who used it, and I only used it to blog, print the occasional random thing, and download applique files. All of these things are done pretty sporadically, as you can tell from my blogging. Everything else internet-related is done on my phone. So there's no real need to pay for the internet at our house. (We're getting rid of our home phone too, since pretty much only telemarketers call us.) I will TRY (try being the operative word here) to update my blog once every couple of months or so via RR's office. But I make no promises!! :) We'll see how life goes once Sissy arrives.

Since it had been a while since my last post, some of you actually called or emailed to check on us! I'm just excited that someone out there reads this thing! But it may be a while before you see any other updates, so don't be worried. :) More than likely, we will still be here living life and moving right along. So for now, over and out....

June and caught up!!

2011-06-24T15:39:00.009-06:00

So far June has been a blur! I thought it would be laid back, but we've been busy! The first week was pool time and the McWane center, the second week was VBS and the zoo, the third week was art camp for the Bean and Father's Day, and this past week as been ballet camp for the Bean. Also, we've been been switching around rooms, getting the infant car seat installed, having a doc appt every week or two (me), and did I mention that I turned a cool 34 years old also?? Next week includes a sewing class for me (bishop construction - can't wait!! this baby had better wait! famous last words, right?) and haircuts for the kids. I was trying to pack a summer of fun in one month since we'll be staying in more once the baby arrives.

Playing at McWane with our friend Jackson
Bubs the artist

Doing the zipline at McWane...a big hit!

"Digging" for "dinosaur fossils"...Bubs was a big fan as he is really into dinosaurs right now.

Mrs. Bradford (the wife of an elder from our SS class) is sweet to invite us young moms and all our kiddos over to their pool and provide lunch a few times each summer. Everybody has a ball! Eating Mrs. Bradford's delicious chocolate dipped cookies...better than Full Moon's!

Eating lunch...the Bean wanted a grown-up lady chicken salad sandwich, not PB&J!

The kids loved the pool noodles...this was their first time to use them!

Zoo time with our cousins! Mimi treated us all - thanks Mimi! It was almost 100 degrees that day, and we were there from 9 am - 4 pm. Did I mention that I was a month away from delivery at this point? But I hung in there.

The petting zoo

Bubs kept saying, "Come here, rooster!!"

We decided this guy needed a visit from the dentist.

Riding the train at the zoo is always a treat! Thanks Mimi!

We even fed the giraffe! All four cousins did it!

Wiping giraffe slobber off her hand...there was a zoo employee at the ready with antibacterial gel after that, don't you worry!

Evan and Bubs are becoming big buds and like to play together almost as much as Evan and the Bean!

Mimi also treated the kids to slushies at the end of the day...a perfect end to a fun day!

Father's Day gifts...crafts from the kids, a peanut butter pie made by the Bean and I (which she didn't like, but Bubs was a big fan), and gifts from the kids. They each picked out a gift for Daddy. Bubs gave Daddy a chocolate bar (which Bubs ate most of), and the Bean gave him an iTunes gift card.

A birthday dinner out to Surin 280 with friends...RR and Green Eggs in the 'Ham

planned it, and RR got me a strawberry cake from Ashley Mac's. You MUST try this cake! Fun times!

The Bean on the first day of ballet camp. I was a terrible (forgetful) Mommy and did not bring my camera to the final day's performance. But she had SO much fun at ballet camp! It was her favorite activity so far this summer, and her class did a wonderful routine for all the parents.

May Part 2 - visit to Mimi and Grandpaw's and attack of the lizard

2011-06-24T15:19:00.005-06:00

May Part 2 includes a trip to Mimi and Grandpaw's. We went to Noccalula Falls, where we petted/saw some animals, rode the train, played on the playground, and had ice cream. Also during May a small lizard infiltrated our house. We do live by the woods, you know. RR was at work, so brave, pregnant Mommy captured said lizard and released it outside. With two brave onlookers, of course. He was a fast little guy.

Releasing the creature into the wild...
My two brave helpers. They were wearing "superhero capes" (i.e. blankets), and Bub's had a "sword" (i.e. spank spoon).

The beastly critter

Playing at Noccalula Falls

Ice cream after a hard day of playing at the Falls

Riding' the train

The lion...I've never seen this cat do anything but sleep. I guess I like it that way. :)

Petting the wabbits...

Note the deer on the ground...

May Part 1 - end of school, Mother's Day, and Bub's party

2011-06-24T14:32:00.012-06:00

May included end of school, Bub's 3rd b'day party at the Fire Station, Community Helper day at Bean's school, Mother's Day, and a trip to Mimi and Grandpaw's. Here are the first four!

We had Bub's 3rd b'day party at a fire station near our house. It was perfect because there was a playground adjacent to the fire station. We did a tour of the fire station (...during which the firefighters were called out!! We got to see the firefighters jumping in the truck with no shoes and sirens/lights going as the truck pulled away!! Pretty cool.) Then we had cake and ice cream and played at the park. Everyone had a great time!

Each of the kids had an end of the year class party. Bubs had a water day theme, so they wore their bathing suits. He had a blast! The Bean's class did ice cream sundaes, and the party mom went all out! I can't believe the school year is already over! I'll have one in K5, and one in 3 year old MDO, and a BABY next year! I am getting old. :)

Listening intently to the firefighter...

Playing in the firetruck

A future firefighter?? Lately Bubs says he either wants to be a firefighter or a doctor. :)

The whole fam...I think I'm 8 months pregnant in this pic...

They were pulling off about 30 seconds after the alarm sounded...no kidding!

Bubs and sweet cousin Sarah Grace

Here I am telling Bubs to "blow out your windows"...that's right, I said windows. My brain has not been functioning at full capacity since I've been pregnant!

Blowing out his "windows"...I mean, candles!

Cookie cake double doozies from Sam's Club...delish! Btw, that was Daddy's choice, not Bubs. :) I think Bubs would have chosen a Spiderman cake.

The guests

The park

Come on, I HAD to include this one!! If this is not a Kodak moment, what is?!?

Party favors included a fireman's hat and a cup full of candy and fire truck related stuff...

A couple of Bubs favorite gifts...a Spiderman cap, camo rain boots, and a gun. He has worn those boots and cap almost every day since.

We also celebrated Mother's Day with my mom (Mimi) on the same day Grant's birthday. We had a girlie lunch...chicken salad on croissants, fruit with marshmallow dip, and chocolate chip or lemon blueberry bread. And lots of leftover cookie cake.

Community helper day at school...Bean was a nurse.

Bub's last day of of school - water day!

Bean's end of the year school party - ice cream sundaes!

The spread

No party is complete without a pinata, right?? Doesn't every ice cream sundae party need candy chasers??

The Bean and Lynley, her K4 BFF

Sweet Mrs. Thompson! The Bean loved every minute of being in her class!

April

2011-06-24T13:50:00.006-06:00

Events from April included a scrapbook retreat for me, and a farm field trip for the Bean. I have pics from neither, so onto April's main event - Easter! These pics are all out of order, but we celebrated Easter w/ my family the weekend before Easter with a yummy dinner and traditional egg hunt for the kids. The kids and I did Resurrection Rolls and the Resurrection Eggs during the week before Easter. We had lunch on Easter Sunday with some good friends from our Sunday School class.

How's that for a quick Easter wrap-up??

Sweet friends at our Easter lunch...
We enjoyed probably the best carrot cake I've ever had at our Easter lunch, courtesy of Green Eggs in the 'Ham.

The kids table at our Easter lunch

I forgot my camera Easter morning (who does that???), so here are our two lone family pics. :)

I think I was 7 months pregnant in this pic??

We did Easter baskets the night before to cut down on the Easter Sunday morning madness...

The biggest hit in the Easter baskets were probably the princess socks for the Bean, and Cars socks for Bubs.

Resurrection Rolls...tasty!

My sweet sticky-fingered helpers. One marshmallow for the helpers, one for the rolls...

Fun at Mimi and Grandpaw's nearby park while we were there celebrating Easter. Puddles and sticks...fun times for a boy!

The daredevils riding down the ramp at the park...

Bubs actually has a big boy bike now...he was way too tall for the tricycle!

Examining the loot...candy and cold-hard cash! (Coins, but that's big time for a piggy bank, of course.)

Cousins

Pretending to be shepherds...a little more Christmas than Easter, but it's all Biblical!

March

2011-06-24T13:22:00.005-06:00

March was all about preparing for and taking a trip to visit RR's family near Seattle, WA. The kiddos were really pumped about the plane ride. They actually did very well too! A little squirmy-ness at times, but for a 4 and 2 year old, they did great. We had such a wonderful time visiting with family. The Bean REALLY loved her cousin Ella (age 5). RR's nephews Nathaniel (age 13) and T.J. (age 9) were very sweet to Bubs and the Bean. Bubs would have moved in at their house...there were 3 dogs and 2 cats (I think that's right...), plus all the kids. Never a dull moment. :) The first thing Bubs wanted to do each morning was pet the doggies. It rained each day (typical Seattle weather), but that gave us lots of time to catch up and visit. Plus RR's sister had a hot tub, which was a hit. Cousin Ella was very sweet to let the Bean borrow her clothes while we were there. I'm pretty sure that all of the Bean's clothes (except what we wore on the plane) were clean when we got back. The Bean cried and cried when we left. We should have gotten a family shot, but these pics are mostly of the kids. To all of RR's family, we love and miss y'all!! We had a great time!

Here are some pics from our trip!

The hot tub...it was like the Mini-Bachelor in here or something. Just funny to see preschoolers in a hot tub. I couldn't get in since I was pregnant. :(

The Bean wearing Ella's tw0-piece bathing suit...I'm tellin' ya, she loved Ella's clothes!

Grandma PJ crocheting...she crocheted a Rapunzel blanket for the Bean and mailed it to us after the trip. The Bean had gotten to pick out the fabric, and that blanket was highly anticipated. You'd have thought it was Christmas morning at our house when the package arrived!

Sweet Ella gave these Tinkerbell jammies to the Bean. Let's just say she was excited. :)

BFF's

T.J. and Bubs

See the Bean's cool get-up? No wonder she didn't want to wear any of her own clothes! Pink cowgirl boots and a sequined cowgirl hat??? What more could a girl want!

No, we're not dead/Stuff from February

2011-06-24T12:56:00.004-06:00

Riding the bus on the way to the cookie factory...I was a bus chaperone. :)

Rockin' the hair nets getting ready to tour Bud's Best Cookies...we rode a train through the factory, and even got some fresh warm cookies!

Ok, so here's my attempt to do a little catching up on this blog. I think I've said it before, but once I got a smart phone last Fall and could check email and surf the 'net, I really did not want to get on this slow computer. Really all I do on our home computer is print stuff, download stuff, and blog...all of which are rare occurances. But with a new baby coming in 18 days or less, here's my attempt at catching up.

So, February was pretty boring, at least looking back at pictures there was not much I deemed camera worthy, I guess. :) I know one thing missing is pics from the Bean's class Valentine's party, and that's because those pics are on my phone and I still can't figure out how to download them to my computer. Calling Verizon is on my to-do list. :)

The pics above are of us playing at a park with some good friends, on the Bean's class field trip to Bud's Best Cookies, and also of the Valentine's confection (brownies) that the Bean and I made.

February done. :) One month's post down, four more to go...

Menu Plan Monday and Gender Reveal!!

2011-02-21T16:35:00.005-06:00

Because I know some of you don't want to wait until the end of this post to read if we're having a boy or girl, I'll be nice and not make you read my menu for the week or even scroll down the page! We're having a...

GIRL!!

That's right...we're having another girl! And because we're weird and this is our "thing", we have already chosen a name. Our "thing" is, on the day of our ultrasound, RR and I go to lunch and decide our child's name. I do the research and compile the list of names for each sex that I like, make name combinations that I like, then make a list and bring it with us. We whittle down the list and usually end up with 2-3 names that we like. Then it's just a matter of discussing the nuances of those names...meaning, femininity/masculinity, how it sounds w/ our last name, etc. So, without further ado, our third child and second girl will be named...

Audrey Claire Skinner.

We will call her Audrey. I know what those of you who know the Bean's full name are thinking...we went with the same initials. Obviously, that's true, but it was not on purpose. Claire was one of the names we really liked for the Bean, so I've liked that name for years. So it was a frontrunner on our girl list this time around. But I was having a hard time coming up with a middle name for Claire. So I started thinking we could use it as a middle name, and I came up with a few combinations for Claire as a middle name. Audrey Claire was one of those. Once RR started whittling the girl list (which was much shorter than the boy list, btw), it pretty quickly became clear that this name was both of our faves. But we weren't sure if we wanted to be "locked into" using the same initials. We may have a fourth child, and if so, we will probably feel compelled to use our girl initials (ACS) or boy initials (HGS), depending on the gender. Yep, we are all weird like that. We like things symmetrical, even, the same, in patterns, etc. After some debate, we decided we'd rather just go with the name we both love than be concerned about the initials. So, as it turns out, we love our girl name, AND I will get to use all of the Bean's old monogrammed clothes. BONUS! Also, as a side note, everything looked great on the ultrasound, and it looks like we have a healthy little girl.

On to less exciting matters, our weekly menu...

Monday (beef night): sloppy joes, baked beans

Tuesday (breakfast): Western Scramble, bacon, toast

Wednesday (chicken): Chinese Chicken Salad, grapes

Thursday (leftovers): uhh...leftovers :)

Friday (wild card): red beans and rice with turkey sausage

Saturday: Global Missions Conference dinner at church

Sunday: fried chicken salad

Check out Menu Plan Monday for more menu ideas! I'd love to know what you're cooking for dinner this week. Also, I've thought about posted my cleaning schedule, mainly hoping that somebody else might do something similar and post theirs too??? I love getting "spurred on" by other's ideas in the areas of housekeeping and general housewife-ery!

January Happenings...

2011-02-11T18:12:00.007-06:00

Sorry I'm such a blog slacker! When there's lots of things volleying for your attention, the blog tends to get put on the back burner. That being said, I am trying to update the blog at least once a month. So without further ado...here's what we did in January.

The first January happening: RR's annual b'day party! The kids had a great time helping with this. We put up a few decorations, bought him some gifts, and made a yummy dessert (cherry dump cake with ice cream...cherries are RR's favorite). We had a great time celebrating RR's b'day...his 37th...creeping ever closer to the big 4-0!

I let the kids each pick out a gift for Daddy. Bubs was intent on getting him fish. I asked him a dozen times, and his answer was always fish. And Bubs founds just the right thing: bathtub squirting fish. RR loved it, of course. :) The Bean picked out a more appropriate gift: jammies for Daddy.

The kids made some "door decorations"

On to the next thing: the Bean's K-4 circus party! I cannot begin to express how excited the Bean was about this party. The kids in the class all dressed up like circus performers. The Bean initially went back and forth between acrobat, elephant (what?!?), and clown. We ended up deciding on clown, largely b/c her friend Lynley was going to be a clown too. We went to the fabric store and let the Bean pick out her fabric for the clown outfit...with a little guidance from Mommy, of course. (FYI, if any of you are looking to make a clown outfit, I used a basic pants pattern, just made them a little bigger, a "peasant blouse" type shirt pattern, and this clown collar tutorial. Oh, and we found the coolest sequined turquoise sneakers that matched!! They were $6 at Hancock's...it was meant to be.) We painted her face with Crayola markers. Hope that's not bad...they are washable!! A real clown and a juggler were the class entertainment, and they had popcorn, cotton candy, and lemonade for snack. There was a face painter there too. How fun is that???

The Bean and her BFF, Lynley

The whole K-4 class...the boy with a whip was a lion tamer...how creative is that?!

Last happening: snow day! This was the most recent one, which was technically in February, but I'm putting it on this post anyway. We went outside all bundled up, and we threw snow balls, slid down our snow-covered slide, and went for a short walk in the neighborhood. We had a ball! And finally, the kids get to put there cute hats and mittens that I "splurged" on. (Splurged means I spent less than $10 on items that we used very infrequently...I just hate spending even 50 cents on stuff we hardly ever use. I'm cheap that way. I do not mind some sock mittens.)

Other un-photographed January events: Bubs first dentist appointment. He did great! We love our pediatric dentist. They have a fun play area to wait in, then they give you lots of cool stuff, like stickers, the obligatory toothbrush and toothpaste, and tokens to the "Treasure Tower"!! (Basically the Treasure Tower is a vending/gumball type machine of little trinket-y kid items like sparkly bracelets and bouncy balls, etc. But the kids love it!)

One more note if anybody is still reading - we find out the gender of our baby next Tuesday! I do not have a "gut" feeling about this one. I was pretty sure I knew with both my other pregnancies, and I was right both times. This time it's anybody's guess. Speaking of, anybody have a guess?? I will be 18 weeks tomorrow and am feeling great.

December fun

2011-01-10T19:24:00.006-06:00

So as to not get any further behind on blogging, I decided to post all our December stuff in one post. This is kind of picture heavy...sorry!

We started off the month with a fun morning at the Robertson Reporter for our annual gingerbread house party. Or in this case, Pop Tart houses. :) Mom E was kind enough to prepare the houses and icing...I just had to bring a little candy. Last year Bubs had no interest whatsoever in decorating a gingerbread house, and he pretty much played with trains the whole time. This time he did much better and was more into the decorating. And neither of the kids ate as much candy as you might imagine, which is pretty impressive considering what a big sweet tooth the Bean has. The Bean's roof collapsed and Mom E had to do a little repair work, but other than that, their houses turned out very nicely. The houses were pretty much destroyed and salvaged for parts by the next day, FYI. The Pop Tarts and candy just sitting around was way too tempting!

Fast forward a few days in December to Christmas. We went to Mimi and Grandpaw's house for a few days and had a blast. The Bean got a lot of princess stuff, including a princess "laptop", princess sleeping bag, Beauty and the Beast DVD, and princess dolls. She also got a big doll house and doll house stuff...and she pretty much loved every single present! Bubs got mostly vehicle-related stuff, including a remote-control car, Thomas the Train stuff, a small racetrack, and toy golf clubs. And he loved it all. I got a Cricut, which I am super excited about trying out! RR got mostly money b/c he is harder to shop for. :) We had a birthday party for Jesus on Christmas morning and read the Christmas story from Luke 2. The kids actually sat still and listened!

Listening to Grandpaw read from Luke 2

Bubs stuffing his face with birthday cake...don't know what happened to his pants! As a side note, my brother is notorious for taking the last bite of desserts, or just plain being a dessert hog. So for fun/just to be mean, I grabbed the last half of his piece of cake and scarfed it down. This was followed by a small food fight between my brother and I. SOOOOO glad the kids weren't really paying attention. Didn't get any pics of my face or my brother's bald head smeared with icing...sorry!

Eating birthday cake for Jesus

And let's not forget about the snow! Sadly, the one thing I left at home during our trip to Mimi and Grandpaw's was our coats. Oops. So we really had to get creative to let the kids play in the snow. They have on a hodge podge of clothing/mittens/hats belonging to various people. Bubs caught on very quickly to the idea of throwing snowballs and was pretty good at it! He liked being hit and hitting others with the snowballs pretty equally. And I think he is part Eskimo. It's like he doesn't even feel the cold! He could've stayed out there forever if we would have let him! AC helped build a snow man and made snow angels. We all had a great time!

The glorious snow man (mostly the handiwork of Evan and my brother)!

The glorious snow man being tackled to the ground about 30 seconds after he was finished!

I have on my dad's sweatshirt and jacket, and my mom's shoes...the Bean has on Grandpaw's ski mask, Aunt Marianna's sweatshirt hoodie, and Grandpaw's tube socks for mittens. And I had even bought my kids cute hats and mittens this year!

Last little happening for December...Bubs is potty-trained! He had been showing a lot of interest and asking to use the potty from time to time for the last couple of months, and the week after Christmas he just refused to put on diapers. So I went with it, and he has had very few accidents since then. He's done really well, even when we're out and about. And he was accident-free his first day back at MDO, so that's a good sign! He's truly just trained himself. I've been very proud of him! And just in time, since baby #3 is due in July!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-01-10T13:20:00.003-06:00

I'm sure all of us have new plans/resolutions/goals for the new year. Among my goals was revamping my menu plans. RR likes the good old stand-by recipes like spaghetti, taco salad, and breakfast for dinner, but I get tired of those things and like to try new recipes. So I came up w/ a schedule to give us the flexibility to do both of those things. My new plan is this:

Mondays: chicken
Tuesdays: breakfast for dinner
Wednesdays: beef
Thursdays: leftovers
Fridays: Wild Card night
Saturdays: sandwiches, soup or salad
Sundays: crockpot or eat out or leftovers

Hopefully this plan will work for us. It gives variety, but it also makes it easier to insert recipes each week. With that preface, here's our menu for the week. I love hearing what other people are having for dinner...what's on your menu for the week?

Monday: Italian Chicken, rice, lima beans
Tuesday: Bacon, Egg and Cheese Bagel sandwiches, grapes
Wednesday: Taco salad
Thursday: leftovers
Friday: grilled pork chops, creamed corn, steamed broccoli
Saturday: chicken salad, yogurt/berry parfaits
Sunday: Drip Beef sandwiches (crockpot) - (not my recipe but similar...got mine from the Robertson Reporter), oven french fries

Find other menu plans at I'm An Organizing Junkie!

November Happenings

2010-12-27T13:50:00.004-06:00

I am SO behind on posting, and I didn't take very many pictures during the month of November, not even at Thanksgiving! These few pics are from Thanksgiving at my aunt and uncle's house. The Bean loves playing with her cousin Shyla, and this year we have a new little cousin, Annie. She was the sweetest little baby, and I never heard a peep out of her! The kids had fun playing in my aunt and uncle's big back yard, and Shyla keeps some toys there, so the girls played dress up too. Of course the food was delish...I am not very strict about what the kids eat at such family gatherings, as there are always desserts and snacks within their reach. And other family members willing to give them what they want anyway...right, Mom?? :) It's a losing battle. But I think Bubs had about 4 brownies on Thanksgiving and not much more. Oh well!

Also, on the big news front for November, we found out we are expecting our third child! We didn't tell our kids until right before Christmas so that I could get in one more doctor's appt to make sure we heard the heartbeat and everything looked ok. The heartbeat was 162, and the doc said he felt like everything was going well! I am almost 11 1/2 weeks today. I'm thinking girl, but we'll find out in a couple of months. We are thrilled! And the Bean could not be more excited! She is somewhat of a reserved gal, not usually wanting to talk to unfamiliar people, but she told all of our neighbors when we were passing out Christmas gifts.

The Bean also had her K4 Thanksgiving party, but I only brought my phone...anybody know how to download photos from a Samsung Fascinate smartphone? I will update this post if I can figure it out. They made cute little Indian shirts and necklaces and hats.

Hope you all had a Happy November!

October goings-on

2010-11-19T16:30:00.008-06:00

Wow - I am so far behind in posting stuff. I've gotten a new smart phone so I can check email and get on the internet on my phone,which makes getting on my dinosaur of a computer very unappealing! So...here's what we had going on in October!

For Halloween, we were staying at my parent's house for the weekend, so we went trick-or-treating in my brother's neighborhood. I think every kid in the town was there! The streets were packed! They even had a flatbed truck driving kids around to trick-or-treat. The kids had a blast trick-or-treating with their cousins, and brought in quite a haul!

Lexie and Marianna were "dressing up" by wearing funny hats, so they made me wear the Fedora. Marianna thinks I was pulling it off and should incorporate it into my regular wardrobe.

This is Fireman Bubs and his friend Cy. For those of my high school friends who read this blog, this is Lexie Y's son. He's 6 months older than Bubs. Cy was a spider, and his grandma Brenda made this outfit...it was pretty cute and original!

The Bean, a.k.a. Sleeping Beauty, and Evan as Spiderman.

My sister-in-law Marianna, and their daughter Sarah Grace, who was the cutest little flower ever!

Bubs was excited about being a fireman. I was excited that we borrowed his entire outfit from Evan and had to buy nothing!

The chicas

Bubs caught on to trick-or-treating really quickly and was all about it.

Bubs never complained about walking even though we were out for an hour and a half...Princess Bean's heels starting hurting halfway through (I'd thought ahead and brought her Crocs.), so she and Spiderman Evan took turns riding in the stroller while Bubs walked and Sarah Grace walked or was held.

The Bean's K4 class went to the pumpkin patch on a field trip. To say she had a good time would be an understatement. It was a very fun pumpkin patch complete with scenic hike, cookie break to refuel in the middle of said hike, hayride, hotdog lunch, petting zoo, tee-pee storytime, and more. And we got a free pumpkin...very fun!

The Bean's first time to ride a bus...

The Bean's BFF Lynley...

Mrs. Thompson's "F.R.O.G.'s" - that's their class theme...Fully Rely On God

On the hayride

Eating a hotdog that was roasted on the campfire...we roasted marshmallows too!

The Bean's crew - Grey and Lynley, her BFF's. She talks about them all the time!

Bubs First Day of "School"

2010-10-11T12:08:00.004-06:00

I like it when Bubs look like a sweet little baby (like in this pic...this is what the kids wore for recent family pics), but more and more I am starting to dress him in polos and jeans. Sigh. It has to happen sometime!

Bubs and his "teachoos"...as he says

Oops...here it is mid-way through October almost, and I forgot to post Bubs first day of school pic! Well, here ya go! He likes his class, although he doesn't really have any "friends" (i.e. my friends kids that we hang out with!) in there this year. After about the second or third week, he told me "No paint, Mama. I no paint class. I play owside." In other words, he wasn't a big fan of craft time...he preferred the playground! But I think he is coming around b/c he is gets excited and proud of himself now when he shows me his crafts from class. Also, he has started having Sunday School lessons in the nursery at church since he's a big 2 years old now, and he's really listening! I asked him a couple of Sundays ago what his lesson was on, and he said "Jesus...big boat...rain and rain and rain and rain." And after looking at his take home paper, his lesson was on Noah and the Ark! He still thinks Jesus drives the big boat, and the Bean corrects him every time..."No Bubs!! Noah drives the big boat! Not Jesus!" And Bubs will usually reply..."No Jesus!!" Funny how kids can argue about Jesus. Anyway, little Bubbers is growing up fast, talking in whole sentences, and getting so tall! He is also starting to show a lot of interest in the potty. Sigh. I guess I will need to start on potty training soon!

First Day of School

2010-09-22T12:16:00.002-06:00

I can't believe the Bean is in K4 this year! She barely makes the cut-off , so she was actually 3 when she started! She is just going two days a week, so it's been a great way to transition her (uhh, or me) from Mother's Day Out to going every day next year. Her teacher's name is Mrs. Thompson, and it would be an understatement to say that the Bean loves school. They have music and PE each day (what??? for K4??? isn't that wild?), and library time too. They memorize Bible verses each week and get to pick something from the Treasure Box at the end of the month if they know their verses. They go to the playground and do crafts each day as well. She also got a sassy new haircut for school. :) Like Snow White again. I think she'd live with Mrs. Thompson if she could, but I am glad she likes school. Bubs is sad when we drop her off, and says "Play Bean (insert real name, of course), Play Bean" over and over. Can't believe I have a kid officially in elementary school!

Summer Part 2

2010-09-22T11:36:00.008-06:00

I spruced up our entryway with a few thrift store finds and bargains.

We had a friend's b'day party/playdate for the Bean, princess-style, of course.

We played games.

We decorated crowns and cupcakes (not at the same time...glue and icing don't mix).

The crew

The Bean changed clothes several times. Here she is as Belle.

Here she is with her friend from "From the Shore to the City."

As Belle again with a friend from Green Eggs in the 'Ham.

More friends...Snow White this time.

She started off as Cinderella.

We had a family birthday party for the Bean & Grandpaw (both August b'days) at Mimi's house. Mimi graciously provided cute cupcake toppers, princess plates and napkins, baked the cupcakes, and made chocolate castle-shaped suckers. Do you think the Bean was in heaven?

The Bean helped ice some of the cupcakes and picked out the icing colors.

We went to my niece's baptism.

We've only lived here over a year, but I finally got around to decorating the bookshelves in our kitchen w/ some help (ok, a lot of help) from my friend. Most of the stuff came from thrift stores or the Hob Lob. :)

Where do I begin??? (Summer Part 1)

2010-09-22T10:15:00.005-06:00

Made some roman shades for my Mom's guest room...

"Re-did" my powder room mirror with a little Rub-n-Buff...

After: oil-rubbed bronze

Before: pewter

The Bean had a rite-of-passage and cut a chunk out of her hair one day.

The Bean learned to go underwater and hold her breath. She loves it! She is on her way to learning how to swim!

We went to the beach in July and had a great time. However, we did wreck our new-to-us minivan of only 2 months while on vacation. About 6-ish weeks later, we got a new minivan. (We did have a rental for about 4 of those weeks.) Craziness!

A trip to the Falls

2010-07-31T08:50:00.004-06:00

I'm a little behind on blogging...this trip to Noccalula Falls happened in June. The Falls has a mini-zoo, including a petting zoo. It also has a playground, train, trails, and lots of pretty scenery. The highlight of the trip for Bubs was definitely the train. It's been almost 2 months since we went, and EVERY DAY Bubs and I have the following conversation:

Bubs: "Choo-choo...Grandpaw."

Me: "Grandpaw took you on the choo-choo?"

Bubs: "Two!"

Me: "You rode the train two times?!?"

Bubs: "Uh-huh!! Yeah!"

The kids also enjoyed petting the rabbits and chasing the ducks. Fun times!

Recipes from the Bean

2010-07-31T08:41:00.002-06:00

The Bean is quite the chef around here these days. She is always whipping something up for her "friends" (i.e., her stuffed animals) or Mommy, Daddy, and Bubs. Usually she serves these delectable dishes at a tea party or a picnic. The other day I asked her to share some of her recipes with me. Here's what she told me verbatim.

The Bean's Fruit Salad

delicious candy
banana
sour sauce
ice cream
milk
forkus (what????)

Directions: First put food in bowl. Get a spoon. Stir the food. Then you eat it.

Chocolate Chip Bread

banana
yogurt
chocolate chips
ice cream
milkshake
pink lemonade
hot dog
chicken leaf

Directions: Put food in bowl. Stir it up and eat it. And microwave it.

Bon appetit!!

Menu Plan Monday

2010-07-12T07:39:00.004-06:00

Here's the plan for the week...I know this is silly, but attempting to post my meal plan helps me be accountable to actually having a plan. Sorry if you are all bored reading my meal plan! But I'd love to see your meal plan...it's easy to get in a "meal rut", so I like seeing other people's recipes and meal plans!

Monday: BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, Mac-n-Cheese, Baked Beans

Tuesday: Beef Stroganoff, Noodles, Green Beans

Wednesday: Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore, Noodles, Broccoli (recipe I'm using is similar to this one...the one I'm using is from All You magazine, but for some reason they didn't have it online)

Thursday: Spaghetti, Salad, Bread

Friday: Leftovers

Saturday: Waffles, Fruit

Sunday: Eat out or sandwiches

Check out other recipes and menu plans at I'm an Organizing Junkie!

The Frog

2010-07-08T08:36:00.004-06:00

The Bean's bunny wanted in on the frog-touching action too!

The other day a little tree frog snuck in our screened-in porch while we were out there playing. Both of the kids loved it and wanted to touch it. This was a very friendly little frog, and he'd sit still for just a second while the kids touched it. Once it jumped up into the Bean's hand on accident...it startled her a little bit, but she wasn't scared. Bubs was the antithesis of scared, and kept trying to grab the poor frog in his hand and succeeded several times. In fact, Bubs liked the frog SO much, he kissed the frog. Yep, that's right, he kissed the frog. And the dumb frog sat still for it too. Bubs kissed the frog three different times. He was very upset when the frog hopped under the door and left. For the record, the frog did not turn into a prince. :)

Menu Plan Monday

2010-06-28T08:41:00.002-06:00

Here's my menu for the week...it's a short week since we are headed to my parent's house for the 4th weekend. I haven't tried the crockpot recipe yet, but I was drawn to it b/c it is easy and sounds yummy!

Monday: Homemade pizza

Tuesday: Crockpot Italian Chicken, green beans

Wednesday: Grilled pork chops, rice, broccoli

Thursday: Chicken Quesadillas, black beans

Btw, I'm An Organizing Junkie is having a menu planning software giveaway if you link up with Menu Plan Monday today! Here's hopin' I win!! :)

It's a fiesta!

2010-06-03T21:13:00.004-06:00

Now why didn't I think to ask everyone to turn around and smile??

For those of you who don't know, since January RR has been planning on going on a mission trip this summer to Huehuetenango, Guatemala. Ray has been discipling a group of HS juniors from Restoration Academy in Fairfield, AL, and two of them were chosen to go on a mission trip with Briarwood Christian School. And Ray was asked to go also. They were supposed to leave tomorrow, but the trip has been cancelled due to the volcanic eruptions in Guatemala and the devastation caused by Tropical Storm Agatha. So he is no longer going and the trip is off. We are thankful that we know this is God's will and also thankful for the wisdom of those who had to make the decision to cancel the trip, but also sad of course, that RR will not get to go. But the Bean and I had already planned a send-off party for RR, and even though we found out that the trip had been cancelled a few hours before our planned "fiesta", we went on with the fiesta and used it as an opportunity to pray for the people of Guatemala. I pretty much stole this idea from my friends The O'Neals, who used Cinco de Mayo to pray for the people of Mexico. I got all my decorations at the Dollar Store just like she did. (Although DO NOT buy the Dollar Store's "fiesta" cheese dip. It is nasty stuff.) I thought this would be fun and a way for our kids to share in Daddy's mission trip. It was great, and we all had a good time. We had chicken fajitas, rice, beans, and chips and salsa/aforementioned cheese dip. The Bean was very concerned for the Guatemalan kids who don't have many toys, clothes, or even food, and she wanted to give some of her toys to Daddy to take to them. If you think about it, say a prayer for the country of Guatemala as they are recovering from these natural disasters, that God would use these events in the lives of many to see their need for Him.

Our "backyard"

2010-06-03T20:58:00.004-06:00

There is a wooded area behind our backyard that is pretty big (don't really know where or how far it goes). We have gone on a few "hikes" back there...I use the word hike loosely b/c exactly not much real hiking gets done w/ a 3 and 2 year old...it's more like slowly walking through the woods and stopping to look at something or pick up a stick about every 5 feet or so. :) But even going slowly, after about 10 minutes or so, you come to a small creek with a pretty little waterfall and everything. What a picturesque spot! We stopped where this picture was taken, and from there you can hear the waterfall in the background...it's really serene! We spend Memorial Day afternoon out there and took a little picnic/glorified snack out there too. The Bean loved itand waded all in the water, wanted to sit on the rocks, etc. (She has been out there once before with her cousin Evan...they even saw fish that time!) Bubs was not totally sure about it and wanted to be held most of the time. But he did enjoy the popsicle we packed for him. Sorry I don't have any pics of any of us, but this is the only pic I got with any kind of decent lighting. Enjoy the pic of our little corner of God's beautiful creation!

Menu Plan Monday

2010-05-24T09:09:00.002-06:00

I don't know why I have been so bloggy lately...maybe it's b/c all the "school year" activities are over and our summer "schedule" is more laid back. Anyway, I'm sure I'll drop off soon and stop posting as often. But for now, here's our menu plan for the week!

Monday: Chicken salad, crackers, fruit

Tuesday: Red Beans & Rice w/ sausage

Wednesday: Grilled Pork Chops, rice, veggie

Thursday: Quiche Lorraine, fruit

Friday: BBQ Baked Potatoes

Sat./Sun: Leftovers/sandwiches

What are you eating this week? :) Check out other menu plans on Menu Plan Monday at I'm An Organizing Junkie.

Guacamole deliciousness

2010-05-20T07:38:00.004-06:00

I used to hate guacamole. I was always the person who asked for it to be taken off of my dish when I went to a Mexican restaurant. And I thought, why would anybody order a side of guacamole when they give you free salsa or you could order delicious cheese dip??? However, in the last couple of years, I've given guacamole another try. (You know they say your taste buds change every seven years! So if you haven't tried something in a while, try it again - you might like it!) And I have found that guacamole is super delicious! Well, a few months ago I went on a scrapbooking retreat, and they served guacamole as a snack. With lime tortilla chips - even better! And they gave out the recipe. I've made it at least 3 times since then. Truly, this recipe is too yummy to keep to myself. So I will share it with all of you. You will want to immediately go out and buy some avocados after reading this. And it's super fast to make. The Bean loves the "rock-a-mole".

Guacamole

3 avocados
1 lemon
1 lime
1/2 small can chopped green chiles
1 jalapeno
1/4 chopped white onion
salt to taste

Cut jalapeno in half length wise and remove seeds. Mince in food processor. Cut onion. Mince in processor. Put onion and jalapeno in mixing bowl. Cut avocados in half and spoon out avocado into mixing bowl. Add 1/2 can of chopped green chilis. Add 1 T. of lemon juice and 1 T. of lime juice. Mash up with a potato masher. Salt to taste.

The only things I changed were to use pre-sliced jalapenos from a jar, and I probably add a little more of the lemon and lime juice. Bon appetit!!

Happy Birthday, Bubs!!

2010-05-16T18:04:00.006-06:00

The birthday boy's favorite gift - thanks Mimi and Grandpaw!

He looked like he was kissing this cupcake. He never used his hands, and he pretty much ate the whole thing. These cupcakes are from Costco, and they are HUGE!!

Mimi with my niece, Sarah Grace

Cousin Evan liked the cupcakes too!

How come I just look sweaty, but the Bean looks rosy-cheeked and lovely??

The birthday boy!

The cookies might not look that cute, but they were quite tasty. I'd never done decorated cut-out sugar cookies before, so it was a learning experience. Don't know that I'd do it again.

We just celebrated Bubs 2nd b'day this weekend. We had a very small little party at the park. I got a little crafty this year, inspired by some random blogs that I stumbled upon, Couture Parties and Polkadots and Pirates. They have such cute ideas! I went with a tricycle theme since Bubs loves anything with wheels. I smocked a little t-shirt for him (it was my first time and was a little tricky...it's not perfect so don't look too close), and made a birthday banner (which I am planning on reusing after taking off the tricycle part), some cupcake toppers, and sugar cookie cutout party favors. I had so much fun getting all crafty! I had all the paper goods for the crafts lying around in my scrapbook stuff anyway, so it was pretty economical too. The Bean and I made the cookies, which didn't look all that great (not exactly like the Edgar's iced sugar cookies I was picturing in my head, but the Bean and I had a fun time making them, and attractive packaging makes anything look good!) Bubs had a great time. I can't believe he is already two!

One interesting note: there was a police situation while we were at the park. Three police cars came peeling in the parking lot like there was a drug bust going on or something. Turns out some guy thought he was being followed and called the police. Don't know why they needed three police cars for that?? Anyway, it was quite interesting!

Snaps

2010-05-16T17:41:00.003-06:00

The finished product...in the process of making the Bean a coordinating outfit
THE snap putter-onner...

Easy-peezy with my new snap thingie...

For those of you who don't sew, this post probably won't be all that interesting. But even if you don't sew and you've had a snap pop off your kid's clothing, read on!!

Making john-john's is pretty easy and fairly quick if it's not smocked, but I have always HATED putting on the snaps (on the crotch as to making diaper changing easier). I'd almost rather completely undress Bubs to change his diaper rather than put snaps on his outfits. It's that annoying. Snap tape is hard to line up, and hammer-on snaps can warp when you hammer them on, rendering them useless. Then you have to take the warped snaps off w/ pliers, potentially ripping the fabric...it's a whole thing. Or if you don't hammer them on good enough, they'll come off the outfit. So frustrating.

But I have found a new product that makes putting on snaps super easy! I was looking in the notions section of Hancock's when I stumbled upon it. Basically, it is a casing for the hammer-on snaps. It locks them in place without warping the snap. It is so fast, and IT IS AWESOME!!! And you can re-use it. So if you sew, run out and get one right now! It will change your life! :) (Can you tell I love this new snap thingie??)

A little slice of paradise

2010-05-01T11:20:00.002-06:00

Usually each year, RR gets invited on a business rewards trip (translation: free trip for us). This year it was in Watercolor, FL (near Seaside). My parents kept our kids (thanks again Mom and Dad!!). It was SO nice...very relaxing. Good food, good times. The only sad thing was that our friends over at Pink Magnolias (who were invited on this trip too) couldn't go this year since they are expecting their 3rd child just about any day now. Check out the beautiful scenery!

They're growing up

2010-05-01T11:13:00.003-06:00

The kiddos have recently started preferly to eat their apples "au naturel." No more peeling and slicing. No more caramel dip to entice them to eat the apples. The Bean would probably eat the core, seeds, and stem if I'd let her. I know this is a good thing, as it makes my life easier, but is it crazy to be a LITTLE bit sad that they're big enough to eat their apples like that?!? :)

On a side note, I just realized that the Bean is wearing her Snow White outfit in these picks, making the apple-eating a little bit humorous...I promise that hers is not poisonous!

He's gonna hate me for this one!!

2010-04-05T20:53:00.004-06:00

You know toddlers will often walk off into a corner somewhere to, ah-hem, do their business? Well, Bubs is one of those. If I can't find him, it's not unusual to find him somewhere off by himself, squatted down in a corner somewhere, "assuming the position." He's gonna hate me for taking these pics someday, but I couldn't help myself!! I am documenting a stage of his life. It's for historical purposes. :) So chuckle to yourself as you look at these pics.

Easter

2010-04-05T20:16:00.005-06:00

Opening her Easter basket...she was psyched about her princess panties! (I need to relish these days when underwear is still a fun gift!)

Bubs looked at his basket, picked up the toy car in it, walked off and started playing w/ the car, and that was pretty much the end of his interest in the basket.

Her silly face

What a precious picture!

This is what Bubs wanted to do the whole time during out photo session, which is why I don't have one pic of his knee socks actually up on his knees.

The best shot we got of Bubs

The Bean never looked up at the camera for the family pics...not even once!

Here are a few Easter pics. We had a great morning at church celebrating, then went out for lunch and had a relaxing afternoon at home (or as relaxing as it gets w/ two pre-schoolers). During Holy Week, RR and I used our church's devotional guide that you can find here. It was really good and thought-provoking, and Wednesday's devotional stood out to me in particular. You should check it out. I am so thankful to have a risen Savior who has conquered sin and death. And who, "for the joy set before him, endured the cross, scorning its shame." Happy Easter, everyone!

Her Obsession

2010-03-20T07:14:00.005-06:00

In one of my recent posts, I sort-of alluded to the Bean's obsession with all things Snow White. Well, the Bean has taken it to the next level.

Her hair has been badly in need of a trim for the last several weeks. Being a true frugalista, I decided I could cut it myself. So I got a tutorial from my friend over at Pink Magnolia's, and bought a pair of shears from Sally's. When I told the Bean that I was going to cut her hair, she had an opinion. She wanted it cut like Snow White's. So I got a picture of Snow White and explained to the Bean that Snow White's hair was chin-length. And the Bean's hair was down to the middle of her back. And that once we cut the hair, we couldn't tape or glue it back on. And maybe we shouldn't cut it that short. But the Bean could not be deterred. She wanted it cut like Snow White's. So we did. And I cut off 7 inches of hair!!! SEVEN!! The Bean LOVES it, and she takes a second look now anytime she sees herself in the mirror. We also curled it for the pics to really get the Snow White look down pat. What a fun memory!

Can you say blackmail?!?

2010-02-21T16:40:00.003-06:00

Wearing Mommy's shoes...a sassy leopard print!
Princess Bubs

I'm actually shocked that the Snow White outfit was off the Bean's body long enough for Bubs to put it on. The Bean wants to wear her Snow White outfit EVERYWHERE.

Poor Bubs. His big sis loves to dress up, and all her dress-up clothes are girly. Bubs wants to join in the fun, but the only "boy" dress-up stuff we have is a little fireman's hat...and a "cowboy hat" (umm...it's actually Mommy's old straw beach hat, but hey, it KIND OF looks like a cowboy hat???). So Bubs ends up wearing the Bean's dress-up clothes. These will be the pictures I break out when his freshman prom date comes over. He, he, he!!! Those and the bathtub pics!! Maybe next b'day or Christmas I will buy poor Bubs a Superman cape or something. :)

Snow

2010-02-16T08:39:00.004-06:00

Packing down a snowball...
Chunking a snowball at Mama

This is "Crocodile Lake" in our neighborhood. No, that's not the actual name...just what the Bean calls it. I think she got that from a Dora episode. (Note the lack of snow!!)

Walking tall and carrying a big stick. :)

By the time we went out and played in the snow, we really didn't have much snow in our yard. So we went for a little walk to our neighborhood park and enjoyed some snow on the way. I also realized how unprepared we are for cold weather. I am the only one who has a hat, scarf, and gloves. Ray has two of the three, and Bubs has a hat. The Bean had nothing. So the kids wore "sock mittens." Is it just me, or is anybody else too cheap to buy a hat and mitten set when your child MIGHT use it once or twice a year? Their coats have hoods, so most days that's all they need! Anyway, the kiddos had big fun playing in the snow. Bubs mostly just liked walking around in it and was content to carry sticks around during our walk. The Bean, however, instigated a snowball fight with Daddy. He was happy to oblige. :) It was beautiful to see everything dusted in snow. That was my favorite part!

Phone calls from the Bean

2010-02-03T08:01:00.004-06:00

Some of you may not know it, but the Bean calls you regularly. :) She will get one of our play cell phones and walk around, just talking your ear off. The following is how a few of her recent conversations went. I have not embellished anything, and I pretty much wrote down verbatim what she said as fast as I could dictate...

A "conversation" with Mimi:

Mimi, what do you want? An egg? Sorry, we ate them all gone. You could eat a play egg. How about a banana? Ok. I'll let you go. See you later. Bye bye.

(But she continues her conversation even though she has said bye bye.)

Evan is still sick so he can't come over. How is Sarah Grace? Does Uncle Drew still have poop all over him? What did you say? I am making dinner in my kitchen. You can call me anytime. Ok. I'll let you go. But I think I'm going to your house today. But I'm lost. What did Jesus promise? Ok, well, bye bye. I'm driving on my way. Ok Mimi, you can come here. You are fine. You are just the right size. It really is sin. Do you know what sin is? Everything you do, do to others as you would have them do to you, 'cause this sums up the law and the prophets. If God was, I would hit Jesus. But Jesus would not hit Mimi. Who made us? God made us. Mimi, I really don't want to talk on the phone anymore. You are not cooperating.

A "conversation" with Grandpaw:

Hi Grandpaw! What was Mimi doing? You are getting me some new shoes? I have a bunny you would like. I love you. I have to let you go.

A "conversation" with Daddy:

Ok. Hi, Daddy. What are you doing at your office? Working on some pants? No, you're not!

A "conversation" with her friend, Little I over at The Robertson Reporter:

Hi, Little I! Do you love me? You do? Well, I will come to your house now. We are waiting on Daddy to come home.

RR's B'day!

2010-02-02T20:42:00.004-06:00

For RR's b'day, we decided to celebrate at home. So the Bean and I threw a party for him! :) She helped me pick out the decorations - yellow balloons and streamers, Sponge Bob hats (seriously Wal-mart - you need to step up your party hat selection!!), and a handmade sign. The Bean helped me make one of Daddy's favorite desserts - cherry cheesecake - yes, the Jello kind from a box. That's his fave. And it just so happens to be very easy for the Bean to help make. We made a special brunch for RR, then he got to choose what he wanted for dinner. It happened to be Milo's, so the Bean and I picked Milo's for dinner and we all had cheesecake afterward. It was nice just to have a family day at home together. Also, a few days b/f his b'day, Mimi and Grampa came over to visit and brought him cupcakes. These were enjoyed by all. The Bean licked the icing off one and asked for another. There was icing everywhere...even in the Bean's belly button! We had to pick them up and tote them straight to the tub. Happy b'day RR/Daddy! We love you!!

Christmas with extended family - last Christmas post, I promise!

2010-01-18T12:39:00.005-06:00

My aunt Dianne took these pics, and I'm gonna hire her to take my kids pics every time...they sat there still and smiled for like 2 minutes straight!

This is an outfit I smocked/sewed last Christmas that we got a second year out of by adding a pair of pants...gotta love when you can do that!

The train was actually Evan's gift, but Bubs LOVED it. :)

The Bean got a baby doll w/ lots of parts (including a hair dryer) that she loved!!

These pics are from two different Christmas parties...one at my mom's side of the family and one at my dad's side. Unfortunately I didn't take a lot of pictures, so there were none of the other family members that were there (sorry guys!), but I promise they were there and we all had a great time! Lots of good food and good times!

Who Needs Elf on a Shelf?

2010-01-18T12:30:00.002-06:00

On the stairs

On the kitchen counter

On the kitchen table

Who needs Elf on a Shelf when you have toddlers and a nativity set? During the Christmas season, Bubs and the Bean moved Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus around more times than I can count. I didn't take pictures each time, of course, but I found them in a different place pretty much each day. The Bean liked to put baby Jesus in the "loft" of the barn b/c as she said, "Kids sleep upstairs and Mommy's and Daddy's sleep downstairs." (At least that's how our house is laid out, anyway!)

More Christmas pics

2010-01-15T09:51:00.004-06:00

Shakin' her groove thang...

Bubs and the Bean rocked out to the music of this little guy...Jingle Bell Rockin'.

Making his daddy proud...Bubs immediately started dunking on one of his Christmas gifts from Mommy and Daddy.

The Bean loved her paints she got for Christmas...

Jesus' Birthday cake...it was quite tasty!

Opening gifts wearing her "jingle jams" (her name for her Christmas jammies)

The decorations for Jesus' birthday party

The Bean and Mimi making Jesus' birthday cake

We had a great time over at Mimi and Grandpaw's house for Christmas. On Christmas Eve the Bean helped Mimi and I make Jesus' birthday cake. (My nephew Evan helped too....) This was our first year to have a birthday party for Jesus, and we made a 3-layer cake that symbolized the Gospel. The bottom layer is chocolate, which represents our sin. The middle layer is red, which represents the blood that Jesus' shed on the cross to forgive us of our sins. The top layer is green, which represents the new life that we have in Christ. And the icing is white, which represents the pure, sinless life Jesus lived. I tried to find a link to the recipe w/ the verses that go with it, but I couldn't find one. Bean and Bubs rocked out to Santa singing "Jingle Bell Rock" and just about ran out the batteries. They got lots of fun presents, and we had a great time celebrating w/ my family. Merry belated Christmas!!

Christmas Fun

2009-12-28T09:56:00.005-06:00

The Bean's house after the collapse of the roof

Bubs house (all work done by Mama)

The Bean's house before the collapse of the roof

Bubs playing happily

The one shot of Bubs at the table

Our friends over at The Robertson Reporter invited us over a couple of weeks b/f Christmas to make gingerbread (or in our case, graham cracker) houses. The Bean had a ton of fun, and she actually didn't eat any candy while making the houses. She only started asking for candy after we ate lunch. For those of you who know about the Bean's obsession w/ candy, that's pretty shocking. :) Bubs was not at all interested in making the houses or eating the candy. He sat at the table for all of about 30 seconds before spending the remaining 2 hours at the train table in the playroom. Hey, he was playing quietly for 2 hours, so I was happy! We had a great time playing with our friends and had a couple of masterpieces to take home. (The masterpieces were eaten by the end of that week.)

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-23T09:19:00.003-06:00

We are not sending out a Christmas card this year, but we want to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas! May the joy of Christ fill your hearts this week. I've been listening to the Steven Curtis Chapman Christmas CD a lot this month, and there's a line from "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" that has really resonated w/ me this season..."O come thou Dayspring, come and cheer." How blessed we are that we can hope in Christ. When I think about the Old Testament saints that hoped FOR Christ before His advent, I am so thankful that we KNOW that Christ was born a baby, lived a perfect life and died for our sins on the cross so that we could be forgiven. We have more than God's promise to send a Saviour...we have the Saviour Himself. What rest & cheer there is in that knowledge. So, that's my little Christmas thought for this season. And now to sum up (I stole this from my friend Amy...)...

Christmas...A Promise Kept.

18 (uhhh...19) months!!

2009-12-15T11:40:00.004-06:00

I can't believe Bubs is already 18 (uhhh...almost 19) months! He was just a few days over one year when we moved in our new house, and we've been so busy getting settled that it feels like I've missed the last 6 months watching him change and grow! He's starting to act more like a little boy now instead of a baby. He is walking up and down the stairs almost all by himself now (he can walk up all by himself, but he's a little more cautious about going down the stairs...he likes to hold Mama's hand when he goes downstairs...probably has something to do w/ bad memories of falling down the basement stairs when the Bean tried to "help" him walk down the stairs). Gone are the days of the highchair or booster seat. He'll have none of it. Only a big boy chair for Bubs. He is still the better eater of the two, usually out-eating the Bean. Although sometimes he stuffs his mouth so full that he can't finish chewing it all. Eventually he'll get tired of chewing and just spit it out and start over on another bite. He'll do this whether you cut something up or not. :) He is saying several words pretty clearly now...Mama, Dada, Na-na (what he calls the Bean), ball, up, no-no, tar (car), woof-woof, and bye-bye. He will attempt a few other words and names, but they are not very recognizable. He is super busy and from the time he wakes up until the time he goes to bed, he is running around everywhere and into everything. You literally have to watch him all the time, or calamity will occur. (Maybe that's a boy thing? The Bean has always played so quietly by herself.) He has swished his hands and various items in toilet water many times, knocked over many drinks/food, climbed up on tables, counters, and anywhere else he can reach, played with Vaseline, DVD's, Mama's jewelry, and miscellaneous and sundry other no-no things, and broken one of our kitchen drawers and one of my closet shelves. He is very stubborn and does not mind getting spankings. He'd much rather sneak around and try to get away with something and just risk getting a spanking. And he's tough as nails. He rarely cries when he falls down. He'll wrestle with Daddy and tackle Daddy and loves it. But he's also so loving and affectionate. He freely gives kisses and hugs (even to random people...the nursery workers at church have told me he's quite affectionate toward the other kids in his nursery room sometimes).

He dropped his morning nap around 14 or 15 months, so we're down to one nap, which is a nice schedule to have. He loves being outside and does not like being corralled, whether it's a stroller, shopping cart, or highchair. He wants to be wild and free (just like his hair, incidentally). He has really gotten into books in the last couple of months, and he is always bringing books to me and plopping down on my lap, which is really fun, and about the only time he's still unless he's sleeping. :) His favorite toys are still anything with wheels. He's starting to be a little helper sometimes, cleaning up some of his messes and taking things to the trash for Mommy. He has 8 teeth in the front now (4 top and 4 bottom) and his 4 one-year molars. And he weathers the whole teething thing like a champ. I never know he's getting a new tooth until I can see it or feel it. He loves his Da-da. He gets so excited when Daddy comes home. As soon as he hears the garage door open, his face will light up and he'll say "Da-da!" and run as fast as he can toward the basement. And he loves his sister too. If he's up, then he thinks "Na-na" should be up too. The first thing he does in the morning is run to her room. (This is unfortunate since he always wakes up first.)

It will be exciting to see what kind of man Bubs becomes. We pray that the Lord will grab hold of his heart at an early age, and that the Lord will use Bubs' tenacity and passion for His glory. We love you, Baby Bubs!

Thanksgiving

2009-12-01T15:01:00.002-06:00

Happy (belated) Thanksgiving everyone! We had a great Thanksgiving day w/ my extended family and then spent the weekend at my parent's house to watch the big game. We had Thanksgiving lunch at my uncle's house, and Bubs and the Bean had a great time playing w/ their cousins. The meal was delicious (as always...I've never had a Thanksgiving meal I didn't like). We had the traditional holiday spread - turkey and ham, dressing, green bean casserole, homemade mac-n-cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy, a few vegetables, and for the big finish, sweet potato pie, butterscotch apple cake, and this delicious cookie dough cheesecake dessert that my sister-in-law makes. Can one meal get any better??? We have so many things to be thankful for. (I know...I ended that sentence in a preposition.) I was too busy eating and socializing to take many pictures, but here are a few...

Coupon high!!

2009-11-09T14:45:00.002-06:00

I am on a coupon high right now and wanted to post my grocery victory. Maybe nobody cares but me, but I am pretty excited about it!! I have been trying to use coupons in conjuction w/ sales at Publix now for 2 weeks, and today I spent $101.66, and saved $125.80!! Saved more than I spent!! How fun is that?? And all stuff I'll use...not random weird stuff! The deal of the day: free Tylenol! Actually I made a penny on the Tylenol, to be exact. It was on sale for $3.99, there was a $3 off Publix coupon, and I had a $1 off manufacturer's coupon. Nice! I've been using www.southernsavers.com to map my shopping plan, if any of you want to try it. It's kind of addicting!

Need a Stocking Stuffer?

2009-11-07T07:37:00.002-06:00

Here's a good deal I ran across on one of the feeds I subscribe to...a Veggietales DVD delivered to your door for $2.99!! There are 3 different DVD's to choose from. Just subscribe to their email newsletter, and and they'll send you a free DVD. You just pay for shipping and handling. The link below is to the al.com feed I subscribe to. I used that link b/c if you live in my area, it's full of great deals. Happy Shopping!
http://blog.al.com/bargain-mom/2009/11/veggie_tales_by_big_idea_get_a.html

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T20:07:00.004-06:00

The Bean's hair was PERFECT for an Indian costume!

I thought RR really pulled off the cowboy look!

We had a blast tonight at a friends b'day/family costume party! Those of you who know RR well know that he is not too keen on dressing up in costume. But he was a total trooper and decided to participate anyway. His only caveat was that we not spend a lot of money and try to use what we had. So I started off with RR and I's outfits...and came up w/ cowboys. Jeans and a plaid shirt for the basic look...and being in the deep South, we could probably borrow boots and a hat (which is exactly what we did). For the kids to coordinate, I decided on Indians, since I had some scrap brown suede fabric. After buying some fringe and a few embellishments, and doing a little sewing, we had two little Indian costumes! The Bean was SO excited about dressing up in her Indian costume. Bubs liked his too, except for his headband, and he cried every time I tried to put it on him. We were even runners-up in the costume contest at the party. (There was some tough competition there!) And we all had so much fun at the party! The Bean and Bubs played so hard they didn't even eat dinner (though the Bean made time for a chocolate chip cookie and a juice box), and we all went trick-or-treating afterward. Bubs picked up on the whole go-up-to-the-stranger's-door-and-you-get-candy thing fairly quickly, so between he and the Bean, we brought home a sizable bag of candy. Happy Halloween everyone!

Is it really Fall??

2009-10-30T12:45:00.005-06:00

"Whew!! That's cold!"

(*Note that he is holding it by the popsicle itself and not the stick. He held it that way the whole time!)

Today the Bean asked for a popsicle. Is it really Fall? Bubs had to join in too and have his first ever popsicle. Seriously folks, it's 80 degrees outside! And it's practically November!

The Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-26T09:12:00.004-06:00

Chillin' with her good friend, Jackson...

Running around...his favorite thing to do!

Searching for the right pumpkin...

We went to the Pumpkin Patch for the first time ever this past weekend, and we had a blast! We tried most of the activities there, including the hayride and pumpkin of course, the inflatable park, the pony ride, and the "Twactor Twain". We went with a couple of other families from our Sunday School class, and I think we all had a great time even though it was quite chilly outside. I think Bubs favorite thing was either the hayride or running around outside. The Twactor Twain was a little bumpy for his tastes, I think. The Bean like the inflatable park the best. It was such a fun family day...hopefully we'll get to do this every year!

He's gettin' so big!!

2009-10-26T08:57:00.003-06:00

All done, Mom!!

Where did my baby go?? Bubs is 17 months now, and he wants to be a big kid like his sister. If the Bean colors, he wants to color. If the Bean gets to sit in a big girl chair, then Bubs wants nothing to do with his booster seat! If the Bean doesn't wear a bib, then Bubs doesn't want one either...you get the picture. His latest thing is to sing the "Hot Dog" song. If any of you watch the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse then you know the song. We've only watched it a few times, but man, that Hot Dog song is catchy!! So we like to sing it. Basically Bubs just sings "dot dog dot dog dot dog" over and over...quite heartily, might I add. He is climbing on everything and getting up and down the stairs quite well. Here are a few pics of Bubs trying to be a big kid like his sister, along with just some generally cute pics...

Backpacks

2009-10-10T09:21:00.003-06:00

Bubs LOVES to wear his backpack. If I ever put it down for a minute, he grabs it and comes running over for me to put it in him. The Bean has two backpacks now since she got a new one for her b'day, and today Bubs wanted to wear all 3 backpacks. I'm surprised he wasn't falling over! It's fine w/ me that he likes to wear it...less for me to carry!!

What happens when your husband gets the kids ready for church...

2009-10-05T15:40:00.006-06:00

The other outfit RR offered to the Bean...very tempting! Cute and comfy!
The outfit Bubs was supposed to wear to church...

What the Bean chose to wear to church...exactly what I'd laid out for her! Good girl!

What Bubs end up wearing to church...his jammies shirt, cargo khaki shorts, and his Teva sandals.

I just recently rejoined the praise team at our church after a 3 year hiatus of having babies, being pregnant, nursing, etc. When we sing we have to be at church early, which leaves RR w/ the responsibility of getting the kiddos ready for church. This past Sunday was my first Sunday back on the praise team, so it was RR's first time (that I can remember) to get both the kids ready to go anywhere really, much less in church clothes and all. Of course I wanted to make it as easy as possible on him, so I laid out their clothes, shoes, socks, hairbow, combs, diaper bags, the whole 9 yards, the night before. So I got up and left Sunday morning, and RR arrived about mid-way through the early service. He had been planning on coming to SS and the late service, so I was really impressed! I actually turned to him and asked, "Are the kids here or did you leave them at home?!?!" After the service, he told me the "story" of the morning. He had taken one look at the outfit I'd laid out for Bubs (a button-up shirt and smocked overalls; shoes and socks were optional) and decided it was too complicated. I think RR used the phrase "like 100 buttons" to describe the outfit (there are 9 buttons, just for the record). So he just left Bub's jammies shirt (yes, jammies) on him and added the first thing he saw in Bubs drawer that matched...khaki cargo shorts. And to complete the outfit, Bub's Teva sandals. When RR brought Bubs into the Bean's room, the Bean said, "Daddy, why is Bubs in his day clothes and not his church clothes?" So as not to leave her out, RR gave the Bean a choice between the church clothes I'd laid out for her and "day clothes." And the Bean chose her church clothes - that's my girl! So she looked pretty good, except for a couple of small things. RR decided her hair was way too tangled to try to comb (it WAS very tangled), and instead of her church shoes, he put on her regular socks and Keds (not that big a deal). Also, he pulled her socks all the way up to her knees (in his defense, this is the way Bubs usually wears his church socks). But by the time they got to church, the Bean had folded her socks "the way Mama does." For breakfast, the Bean had chips (yes, chips), and Bubs had animal crackers and 1/2 a granola bar. Both of them ate their breakfast at the church. Once they got to the church, RR dropped Bubs off first. And then he couldn't find the Bean's room (again in his defense, they've just promoted to new rooms about a month ago). He finally had to go ask somebody at the nursery desk where the Bean's room was! Anyway, to make a long story short, RR did things a little differently than I might have, but the kids were both clothed and fed and present. And we were both dying laughing about the whole thing. Not bad for his first time!

Anybody want a free baby gift??

2009-10-02T09:31:00.005-06:00

Sorry this is sideways...I was too lazy to change it!

This is so random, but I have a baby gift that I need to give away. Most of you know that I have an embroidery machine for monogramming & applique. Well, I did an adorable baby gift for a friend the other day and was SURE that the name she had picked started with an E. And I was wrong. :) It was an M. So, I have a baby gift with an E on it, and I want it to go to a good home. :) I know, you say, "Just wait - somebody will come along w/ a baby girl w/ an E name, and then you can use the gift." This may be true, but I am impatient and would rather just give it away! So my loss may be your gain. If nobody knows anyone who needs it, then I'll probably sell it on Ebay or Craigslist. To avoid confusion, the pics on this post show the M gift, but it's the E gift that I'm giving away. It's the exact same gift, except with an E instead of an M, and on the outside of the flower I used pink thread instead of brown. The gift includes a onesie, bib w/ velcro closure, and sippy cup w/ pink top and monogrammed fabric insert (which you can change out). The onesie is a 3-6 months, but in my opinion those run a little small, so I was planning on it fitting like a 0-3 months size. The fabric used for the applique is a pink, brown, and white gingham tri-check. Let me know if you can use it, and it's yours!!

First Day of "School"

2009-09-18T17:03:00.004-06:00

Not that you'll zoom in on this one, but Bubs has a distressed "I-see-Mama-and-she's-not-picking-me-up" kind of look on his face.

Both Bubs and the Bean are in both Mother's Day Out this year, which is SO nice! They are both doing one day a week, and they both love it. Bubs cried a little on his first day, and as you can see from the pic, I tried to go back and take a "first day" pic very inconspicuously. It didn't work. The Bean had no problems leaving Mama as usual. Mama has no problem leaving the Bean and Bubs either. :) The Bean's class is learning Psalm 100 this year, and so far she's got "Make a joyful noise" down pat! They learn; they have fun; I'm happy; they're happy. Ahhh...I love Mother's Day Out!!

Veggie Tales

2009-09-18T09:44:00.005-06:00

Ha ha - so the title is kind of a joke, since this is a post about veggies. A Tale about Veggies...get it? (I think I've had too much coffee this morning...forgive the dumb joke!!) We don't eat broccoli much at our house b/c RR doesn't like it. But he has given me the green light (no pun intended - ha,ha) to serve broccoli every now and then so that the kids will eat it. (I like it too, just for the record.) So I made chicken and rice the other night and steamed some broccoli to go along w/ it. No cheese sauce, just plain steamed broccoli with a little salt and lemon pepper seasoning. When I told the Bean what we were having for dinner, she immediately said, "I don't like broccoli." I said, "Have you ever tried it?" (Which she had, but it had been a while.) So she tried it. And boy did she like it!! She kept on asking for more and more and more. I had made one large bunch of broccoli, thinking that I needed to go ahead and use it up b/f it went bad, but never thinking that we'd actually eat it all. But we did! The Bean only ate about two bites of her chicken and rice (a kid favorite, right?) and ate probably 1/3 to 1/2 of that large bunch of broccoli, and Bubs ate his weight in it as well! His little mouth was covered in bits of broccoli after dinner was over. So maybe I'll make broccoli a more regular part of our menu from now on!

Pics from my nephew's b'day party

2009-09-15T15:42:00.003-06:00

Last weekend we went to my nephew's b'day party...he's only 2 weeks younger than the Bean! He had a train theme...we played at a park in their hometown that has a train, so all the kids got to ride the train and play at the park too. We had hot dogs and a train cake, and fun was had by all! Bubs had a really good time. He basically stomped around in the mud for 2 hours. Fun times! We love you, Evan! Happy Birthday!!

The Bean turns 3!

2009-09-14T09:29:00.005-06:00

Wearing one of her presents...

Opening presents

Enjoying cake and pizza w/ some of her pals...

The cake and "cupcapes"!

I'm a little behind on posting, but the Bean recently had a b'day party and turned 3! I didn't take very many pics, like a dork, but I did get a few. Her b'day party was a ballerina theme...somewhat random, since she doesn't take ballet or anything, but she loves to dress up like a princess or ballerina and I didn't want to "use up" a princess theme. :) (Incidentally, when I asked the Bean what kind of party she wanted to have, she would say "chocolate." It was brought to my attention that I could have made a cute theme out of that, but being rather uncreative I went w/ ballerina.) I appliqued a little ballet shirt for her, and my friend Shanna did a ballet cake. Speaking of the cake, when I asked her what kind of cake she wanted for her b'day, she repeatedly said "cake and cupcapes." And no, I didn't misspell that...that's how she says it! So we had cake and cupcapes. She got lots of fun presents and had tons of fun w/ all her friends and family. In general, I think a good time was had by all!

Sibling Love

2009-09-01T08:57:00.004-06:00

Holding hands

Loving on sister

Sweet snuggles

Side note: The Bean is super focused on the cartoon she was watching in these pics. And she does have on undies...she wasn't sitting around completely in her birthday suit.

Bubs initiated this lovey dovey snuggle time...which actually lasted for about 5 min. Bubs rarely sits still that long! Sweet times!

"Child-proof"

2009-08-24T20:27:00.004-06:00

You know how medicine bottles are supposed to have "child-proof" caps? Well apparently they didn't give much thought to the rest of the bottle. Bubs was in the Bean's room tonight while I was getting them ready for bed. He was rummaging around and found a Motrin bottle in the Bean's bathroom drawer. I saw him walking around with it, and I didn't really think much about it b/c I didn't think he could open it. The Bean warned me that this was not a good idea (Mama!! Bubs has my medicine bottle!! Get it!), but I didn't heed her warning (It's okay, Sugar. Bubs can't get it open.). A couple of minutes later I heard the Bean say, "Mama! Bubs bottle is leaking!" Sure enough, it was leaking. I thought, how in the world did he get that cap off?? Well, he didn't. He BIT THROUGH the bottom of the bottle, and it was leaking out the bottom. What in the world!?!? Who has ever heard of such a thing? So I learned my lessons: 1) Don't let your children walk around w/ medicine of any sort, and 2) Listen to your kids. Sometimes they are right!

Side note: Bubs didn't drink any of the medicine, if you are wondering, and it didn't leak too badly. The Bean caught it pretty early, and most of it went on her bathroom floor which was easy to wipe up.

He's been shorn

2009-08-12T13:30:00.004-06:00

Regular curls (if there is such a thing)
The after-nap 'fro

The shorn sheep look

Look - no curls!!! His head looks empty!

Today I took Bubs and the Bean to get haircuts. This was Bubs first haircut, and only the Bean's second cut. The Bean, as I would have expected, did great and was excited about her glitter star, sucker, and glitter/yummy-smelling hairspray. Bubs did ok, but (as I also would have expected) he was very squirmy after the first couple of minutes and just wanted to get down and run around. The Bean got a pretty basic trim, and I told the stylist just to take a little off Bubs above the ears and at his neck, but she kind of went overboard, and he looks a little shorn, to me. Here are some before and after pics of Bubs. I told her not to cut off all his curls, and she just about did! You can't see any curls in the back at all! Oh well, I guess they'll grow back. I don't think his curly hair is just baby curls. I think it's curly for life. We shall see. This was also Bubs first experience w/ a sucker, and he was quite a fan. He finished the whole sucker in about 10 minutes on the ride home, and the Bean still hadn't finished hers after about an hour. :)

Self-feeding...or scavenging

2009-08-12T06:58:00.004-06:00

Bubs has not shown any interest so far in feeding himself. He mostly eats finger foods, but when I do feed him yogurt, oatmeal, applesauce, etc., I always feed him. He's never tried to grab the spoon or anything. (Unlike the Bean, who graduated to finger foods earlier than normal b/c of her independence and was trying to feed herself w/ the spoon at 12-14 months.) I wouldn't have thought Bubs would have much "skill" in feeding himself, but boy was I wrong! He grabbed the Bean's yogurt off the table yesterday, and just went to town on it feeding himself (and doing a pretty good job!) b/f I even knew what he was doing! Very little went on the floor or on his clothes. What other skills is Bubs hiding from me?? Now if he could only change his own diaper...

Vacation pics

2009-08-05T11:06:00.004-06:00

My little surfer dude...check out that mop top!

Enjoying a fudge-dipped ice cream popsicle

This is probably my favorite beach shot

Mimi and Grandpa w/ their four favorite people...:)

We just got back from a wonderful week-long vacation down at St. George Island, FL. I highly recommend the place if you want a family-oriented, non-touristy vacation spot. It's mostly just beach houses, and there are a very few restaurants. Only one chain place - Subway. No Mickey D's or anything! We had our own pool, which was really nice. The Bean loved the pool and by the 3rd day or so was "swimming" by herself. Bubs warmed up to the water and loved it too! And both of them loved the ocean and beach. Bubs was happy just to walk around on the beach (and eat the sand, but oh well!). It was a very relaxing trip, and a good time w/ my family. Here are some pics!

Puddle Jumpers

2009-07-22T09:08:00.002-06:00

Is anybody looking for a flotation device for their kid? B/c I have a recommendation. My nephew had one called a Puddle Jumper that my brother was raving about, so I decided to try it for the Bean. By her second time in the pool, she was "swimming" to the side by herself and jumping in the pool too. The Puddle Jumper isn't inflatable, so you don't have to blow it up, and it goes around the chest and arms so it keeps them up out of the water, and it buckles in the back so they can't unbuckle it. And they are only about $15 at Wal-mart. $15 well-spent, if you ask me!

My man the lumberjack

2009-07-22T08:14:00.003-06:00

The mighty man felled the tree...

Those branches are no match for a 20 foot chainsaw.

It helps to be 6'4" sometimes.

Aren't they gorgeous!?!

As you all probably know, we moved a couple of months ago. What you may not know is that our new house had been vacant for two years b/f we moved in it. (Which helped us get a great deal...thank you Lord!) Anyway, the former owners mowed the grass when they moved out but that was about it for lawn care, so our yard needed a little TLC. So we've had some landscaping guys out here doing a few things, like trimming everything up, ripping some things out, laying down fresh pine straw, etc. Some of you who know RR well know that he has always said that he didn't think he'd be a fan of lawncare. (We haven't had a lawn up until this house.) But give a man a big chainsaw and it'll change his mind!! (Plus, since RR grew up in the country (and I mean country), he's cut down trees before. Like big trees. Who knew?? And he worked at a sod farm during HS too, so the man knows his grass.) To save money, RR did a few projects himself, like sawing down some low branches, small trees, and general underbrush-ishness. (Yes, I made up that word.) He worked for several hours over a couple of days and was quite the lumberjack. I wish I had before and after pics of the yard, but I don't, so I included some action pics instead. My "contribution" to the landscaping was to cut off some hydrangea blooms and put them in a vase. It was so fun cutting flowers from the yard!! I was quite proud of my man the lumberjack for doing a lot of hard work (and not chopping off an appendage in the process - whew)!

Conversations w/ the Bean

2009-07-14T16:07:00.006-06:00

Here's how a conversation w/ the Bean went this morning:

Bean: I like your earrings, Mommy.

Me: Thanks, Bean! I got them for my birthday.

Bean: Did you get them at your party?

Me: Well, no. I didn't have a birthday party this year. I just bought them for myself.

Bean: Nobody gave you any presents?!?

Me: Well, Mimi and Aunt Pat gave me some money so that's what I bought the earrings with.

Bean: Are you sad that you didn't get a party or cake or presents?

Me: Well, maybe a little bit, I guess.

Bean: Aww, Mommy. Don't be sad...don't cry. (She hugs me.)
(I am not anywhere near crying at this point, btw.)

Bean: I know what will make you feel better, Mommy!

Me: What's that, Bean?

Bean: A Diet Coke!!

My daughter knows me well!

Summer pics

2009-07-14T08:30:00.004-06:00

Delicious!

This was the best picture we could get...none of them wanted to stop and pose...

Bubs really liked the sprinkers! Maybe he'll warm up to the baby pool soon!

Evan and the Bean held hands on the way to the train...they were just walking along at their own pace talking to each other about stuff they saw...so sweet!

For the 4th of July, we went to our friend's house over at Green Eggs in the 'Ham, and we had a great time! They had BBQ and all the fixin's to go along w/ it. The Bean LOVED the BBQ and actually had seconds and thirds!! She kept saying, "I want more meat, Mommy." And for an after-dinner treat, we had good old fashioned ice cream cones, which were a hit w/ the kiddos. I even gave Bubs an ice cream cone, and he ate the entire thing. :) As was evidenced by his outfit afterward. The Mure's had a castle bouncer, and that was lots of fun too. We had so much fun over there that we lost track of time and kept our poor kids up 'til 10 pm! Not that they were acting tired...they were having too much fun!

Last week we went to the zoo w/ my brother & sister-in-law and their kids, and our friends the Robertson's too. Bubs did great even though he didn't get a nap, and the Bean had a great time w/ Evan and Little I. Their favorite part was playing in the sprinklers and riding the train. Although by the time we rode the train, Bubs was so tired he just laid on my shoulder the whole time. :)

Fun times!

One Year

2009-06-30T17:31:00.009-06:00

Coming home from the hospital

At about 6 weeks

3 months

5 months

7 months

9 months

11 months

13 months

Intro: Since Bubs birthday was only 4 days b/f we moved, I didn't do a "one year" post for him...just the few b'day pics along w/ other May pics. So here's my 6 week overdue "one year" post for Bubs. Sorry there are so many pics, but come on, it's too hard to narrow it down!

Bubs started walking just a few days b/f he turned one, and that kid has not looked back. Transitioning to milk and the cup was no big deal. He does quite well w/out a morning nap when needed, but still takes one when we're home. I can't wait til he drops that morning nap for good. It'll be nice to have the morning to run errands again. Most books/doctors say that eating sometimes slows down after they turn one, but it's been the opposite for Bubs! He barely ate anything until a couple of months ago, and now sometimes he eats more than the Bean! His favorite foods are yogurt, eggs, bananas, watermelon, and any kind of cracker. He's a big guy, and he is wearing 18-24 mo mostly. He is as stubborn as can be, and has to be disciplined multiple times b/f he obeys, if at all. If you are standing right there w/ the spank spoon, he'll obey. If you are standing right there w/ no spank spoon, he might try it or he might not. But if you're not around, he'll try to get away w/ everything and anything! The Bean was always very obediant at this age, so maybe this is a boy thing? He has super curly hair, and is starting to develop a little bit of a 'fro, so I'm wondering if I should get his hair cut. He started to go through some separation anxiety about the time he turned one, and it's in full swing now! Anytime Mama leaves the room, he's in full-on wail mode. He's not really saying much yet, but sometimes he says Dada, although I don't know if he knows that RR's name. And he says "yeah" sometimes when I ask him questions like "Do you want a snack?" or "Do you want to go outside?", but he's not consistent about saying it, so I don't know. His favorite thing to do by far is take a bath. That kid loves him some bathtime. My favorite thing (and RR's) about Bubs is that he likes to give kisses. He will grab my face and kiss my nose so sweetly. Never the mouth or cheek...just the nose.

He is the sweetest, and he has captured all our hearts. We love you Bubs!!

(Here's a link to a pic my friend Jess took of him. Doesn't she do a great job? You can look through the rest of the pics on her site.)

Warning: Baby Bottom Cuteness

2009-06-22T14:09:00.003-06:00

I couldn't resist posting these bathtime pics. In our new master bathroom, we have one of those big whirlpool tubs, and Bubs and the Bean LOVE taking a bath in there. They don't even need toys...just the tub is super fun for them! We went a little crazy w/ the soap this particular evening. Hence the bubble bath look. For those of you who are quite observant, you might notice and leg and hand that don't look like they belong to the Bean or Bubs. That is b/c RR was in the bath too (in his swimtrunks). He was getting soaked anyway, so why not join in the fun?

The Bean's destruction

2009-06-22T13:54:00.004-06:00

Here's more evidence of the Bean's naptime destruction. She about lost it when we were about to throw this pillow away, so instead we just cut off all the dangling trim so she couldn't (hopefully) destroy it anymore. On the bright side, these incidents have been good opportunities to explain to her about being good stewards of the things God has given to us. :)

Humidity = Curly Hair

2009-06-22T13:42:00.003-06:00

Here are some of Bubs curls after naptime in the sauna. Btw, our air is fixed now! Praise Jesus!

Naptime today

2009-06-19T15:09:00.004-06:00

Here's how I found the Bean sleeping today when I went to check on her before I went to get Bubs up from his nap. This was after I had to "enforce" the naptime stay-in-your-bed rule (she had gotten down just about every single item from her bookshelves...books, pictures, toys, stuffed animals, etc.). Looks like she can fall asleep if she stays in her bed! Also, I believe I mentioned yesterday that our air is out upstairs. So the kids have only been wearing their diaper/pull-up to bed to stay as cool as possible. Well, Bubs must be feeling the heat, b/c he had ripped his diaper off (and peed all over his sheet) this morning when I went in to get him out of bed. I wish I could've taken and posted a pic of him in all his birthday suit glory, but you get the idea. :)

"Naptime" activities

2009-06-18T12:31:00.003-06:00

The Bean is in a big girl bed now, if I haven't mentioned it here. She slept on her crib mattress on the floor her first few days in the new house, and she did so well that we decided to run w/ it and get her a big girl bed. She really has done a great job staying in her room, and she's done a great job going straight to bed at night. Naptime is a different story. She's sort of at the point where she doesn't need a nap every day now, so instead of taking a nap, sometimes she'll just read or play w/ toys in her bed. This worked quite well when she wouldn't nap in her crib. Just give her a few toys and books and she'd happily read and sing to herself for a couple of hours. Now if she's not tired, instead of trying to take a nap, she'll just get out of her bed, go get some books or toys and start playing. I haven't really wanted to enforce this, since she does play quietly in her bed and doesn't cause any trouble. I sort of consider it "room time" if she's not napping. Well, things have taken a turn for the worse lately. She's been "playing" with her lamp (even unscrewing the lightbulb by herself!), ripping pages out of books, tearing the ball fringe off of one of her pillows, turning off her monitor, and "washing" her hands (think green foamy soap all over the bathroom floor). Here's some evidence of her destruction. And we now have some new, enforced rules about what we can and can't do during "naptime."

Summer "Fun"

2009-06-18T12:09:00.004-06:00

Before - cute and happy

After - not so happy

At least the Bean had fun!

Our car went out of commision yesterday, so we couldn't go to our fun playgroup as planned. I had already told the Bean about said playgroup, that there would be baby pools and a sandbox and her friends. On a different note, our air conditioning is out upstairs where we sleep, so Bubs wouldn't nap this morning. To make things fun and pass the time and give Bean her promised summer fun, I decided to put the kids in their swimsuits and fill up the ole baby pool in our yard. We haven't done that yet this summer, and Lord knows it's been hot enough the past few days. I knew the Bean would love it, and I figured Bubs would too since he's a maniac in the bathtub. I mean, the kid is bound and determined to drown himself b/c he dunks his head underwater so much. So I thought it would be an easy transition to the baby pool (side note: he didn't get in the pool last summer b/c he was a newborn, just FYI)...just a little colder bath, right? Well, I was wrong! As soon as Bubs toes touched that cold water, he started crying. I tried for 10 minutes to get him to play in the baby pool, and he would not have it! I gave him toys, I held him, the Bean showed him how much fun she was having, we splashed him a little (which he loves in the tub)...everything I could think of. He even started crying when I'd put him down on the grass standing NEAR the baby pool. I thought his misery was a little cute, so I decided to capture it on film. :) I already had the camera with me expecting to capture lots of summer cuteness...it just turned out to be cuteness of a different kind! Hopefully he'll warm up to the pool later this summer, or vacation won't be very much fun!

A few recent pics

2009-06-15T07:32:00.006-06:00

Showing off her moves

Note the plumber's action going on...

The Bean orchestrated this event, but it was still cute...

"Hiding"

Hanging out under the desk area in our kitchen

Sorry I don't have many more interesting pics, but we've been quite busy lately getting settled. We've had handymen here almost everyday for the first 2 1/2 weeks doing a few little updates, so it's been hard to get stuff done during the day. Plus RR has been super busy at work. But we are making progress and enjoying our new home. A couple of highlights that we've already been able to enjoy are the neighborhood playground and our screened-in porch. I especially like the screened-in porch. I can be in the kitchen and watch the kids playing out there. And they can go "outside" even when it's raining!! That's especially nice for them, since we had no outdoor play space at our old house. On a side note, does anybody know where you can get affordable but attractive fireplace screens??? The big box we've had in front of our fireplace is effective in keeping Bubs from eating the fireplace rocks, but it's not the most attractive. :) The dance pics above are the Bean learning some new moves while watching So You Think You Can Dance. She likes to shake her tailfeather when she watch that show. :) She's getting quite good. Hopefully I'll have some more interesting pics soon.

It's been a long month!

2009-06-03T19:36:00.005-06:00

He went at his cake very methodically and ate the whole piece. Even though he'd never had cake b/f, he acted like it was any other food...like it was no big deal!

Me and the birthday boy.

The Bean in her sailboat outift waiting on guests to arrive.

Bub's cake...we had a sailboat theme. My good friend Shanna made it...everyone talked about how yummy it was!

Bubs is walking!! Took his first steps a few days b/f he turned one...

This is the cottage we stayed at in Cape Cod.

Our good friends the Russell's went to Cape Cod too!

RR and I in front of a lighthouse in Nantucket.

The new house!

It's been a while since I posted, but that's b/c it's been a crazy busy last few weeks! Some of you may have noticed that I posted about our new house, then removed the post. That's b/c everything wasn't final yet, so we decided to remove the post just in case until everything was final. Well, it's final now, and we've been in our new house for about a week and a half. Of course, moving is crazy enough, but to round out our month, we also had a 5 day trip to Cape Cod (just RR and I - it was a business rewards trip) and a birthday party for Bubs at our old house (amidst all the boxes). We love our new house, even though we are still unpacking and getting settled (to put it mildly). Here are a few pics from the last month...

Bub's Bloody Nose

2009-05-02T20:27:00.003-06:00

This was right after Bubs woke up from his afternoon nap, and his nose had bled a little bit right after he stood up. So don't worry, I didn't take this pic right after "the incident."

Well, it was bound to happen sometime! As mischievous and busy as Bubs is, it was just a matter of time b/f he got a "real" boo-boo. He bloodied his nose (and bit his tongue pretty good too) yesterday at the park. We had gone to the park w/ friends and were about to leave. The Bean needed to tee-tee, so we headed off to the bathroom. Bubs was in the stroller, so I just left him in the stroller in the bathroom (but not in the stall...it wasn't big enough) while I took the Bean into the stall to go to the bathroom. We were about to walk out of the stall when I heard a thud following by crying. Bubs had crawled out of his stroller, or maybe stood up in his stroller and fell out (don't know which since I didn't see the incident), and fallen face-first onto the concrete floor. Of course I immediately picked him up, but I didn't see the blood until a few seconds later. His nose bled for about 5 minutes maybe, and his tongue bled too where he bit it. About 30 minutes later, he was smiling and back to his usual self. His nose continued to bleed a little here and there throughout the evening, but nothing too alarming. Other than losing a little blood, he is none worse for the wear after his little accident. Poor little guy! I felt so bad for him! I think I need to start putting him in a straight jacket or something!

11 months

2009-04-22T14:41:00.003-06:00

Bubs is 11 months...I can't believe he's almost a year old! He's not walking yet, but he is cruising everywhere and standing up on his own. He says "da-da" a lot, but I think he's just babbling...he doesn't know it's RR's "title." He's eating a lot more table foods and is turning into a bit of a picky eater. He loves crackers and yogurt, and beyond that, I never know if he'll eat what I give him or not. All the nursery workers at church tell me he's super busy and wears them out! That says a lot coming from a nursery worker who keeps babies all the time! We love you, Bubs!

Easter '09

2009-04-22T14:20:00.003-06:00

The kids cooperated fairly well to take this pic! Just couldn't get Bubs to smile.

We had a great time for Easter! My family came over on Easter Sunday for dinner, & we had a ball just hanging out w/ them. We sort of did the resurrection eggs w/ the Bean this year, although her attention span wouldn't last for the whole devotion. Mostly she'd just play w/ the eggs while I told her what the things inside the eggs meant and we tried to keep Bubs from eating the things that went inside the eggs. Again, that kid will eat anything except the food I feed him. :) My family stayed the night, and we all went to the zoo the next day and had a great time! Hope you all in Bloggyland had a happy Easter too!

Sewing project

2009-04-08T14:23:00.005-06:00

Ummm, her hair's a mess b/c we hadn't brushed it yet...oops.

I made my first pillowcase dress recently. And I think I'm hooked. I literally completed it (start to finish) during the Bean's naptime. Well, ok, I didn't quite finish the hem, but I did a "fancy" hem that took a little longer than a normal one. I had some extra fabric lying around from some pants I'd made for the Bean, so I figured I wouldn't have anything to lose if I messed it up. (I didn't have a pattern.) I think it turned out pretty cute! I thought about doing a play-by-play on how to make the pillowcase dress. If any of you are interested, I might do it later. All the how-to's I found on the Internet weren't that helpful. My friend April was the most helpful! She is the sewing queen! (And btw, I wanna see those heirloom dresses and other Spring projects on your blog, girl!! Well, if you can quit sewing long enough to blog anyway. You are my sewing hero.)

Random piece of info: if you use double-backed satin ribbon for projects (bows, sewing, etc), you might want to go to Hobby Lobby and stock up. They are about to stop selling it by the yard and only sell it by the spool.

He keeps me on my toes...

2009-04-01T08:33:00.004-06:00

He's missing a sock, I know. I think he took it off during naptime.

Bubs is giving me a run for my money. He keeps me on my toes. This is how I turned around and saw him the other day...he'd stepped up on his car to better play w/ the Bean's kitchen. And the kid can't even walk yet! What will I do when he starts walking?!? He's already tried to climb into the bathtub, and almost bonked his head in the process. And of course, he'll try to climb up the stairs the SECOND I remove the baby gate. We've already caught him halfway up the stairs once when the Bean got the baby gate open. No more "pulling it to." Gotta lock it down. And maybe the worst thing is that he'll eat anything and everything. I know all babies stick stuff in their mouths, but the Bean never did that as much. Or maybe I'm busier and don't watch Bubs as well as I did the Bean. (Many of these events occur when I'm either in the bathroom or taking the Bean to the bathroom. I think Bubs knows he's got carte blache for a few minutes.) At any rate, I have found toilet paper, bits of plastic bag, and various sorts of paper in Bub's mouth so far. Today he ripped a shred of "paper" off his box of diapers and started to stick it in his mouth. Creative! And he has tore off pieces of bottle nipples with his 4 little teeth and tried to eat those as well. I know it may seem like I never watch the kid, but I promise you, he is sneaky and FAST! I think it's a boy thing!

Our Budding Photographer

2009-03-31T14:45:00.005-06:00

This is her best work, I think.

A self portrait?

Guess who got a hold of the camera while Mommy was in the other room this morning? I'll let you be the judge, but here's a hint: her name starts w/ a "B", ends with and "N" and rhymes w/ queen. :) I think she was going for some abstract looks. And she followed one of the rules of photography: take lots of pictures. Oh, she took a lot alright. About 20 or more! I posted her best shots...ones that weren't just floor.

Easter outfits

2009-03-25T10:18:00.004-06:00

Can I please get a rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus???? The kids' Easter outfits are done!!! And two weeks early, too! I will admit, I had some help w/ the Bean's bishop dress. I smocked it, but my friend April put it together for me. The initial idea was for her to teach me how to put a bishop dress together, but instead I am doing some monogramming for her in exchange for putting the dress together, and she'll teach me on the next go-round. (Right, April???) But I did do all of Bub's outfit. I am going to get my friend Jessica to take their pics in these outfits soon. Anyway, I am really pleased w/ the way they both turned out.

And for my next trick...

2009-03-20T08:45:00.003-06:00

This is how Bubs looked when I went in to get him this morning. Not a snap was undone on his jammies, but he had gotten his arm out. My little Houdini!

Google Fun

2009-03-19T21:36:00.002-06:00

A few of my friends have done this, so I thought I'd do it just for fun too. You Google your first name, then a verb (likes, hates, eats, etc.) and see what comes up. Here are a few of my faves:

Amanda needs to pee.

Amanda hates feet.

Amanda hates good music.

Amanda likes to distract herself with silliness.

Amanda likes to write.

Amanda eats pandas.

Amanda eats airplanes.

Amanda thinks yawning is funny.

Amanda thinks she's a banana.

Hope you thought they were amusing too!

Hide and Go Seek

2009-03-19T15:18:00.004-06:00

Proof that he's under there! This was taken after I lifted up the bumper and had unsnapped half the top sheet.

Where's Bubs??? Bubs' feet are under the blanket, and his head is down toward the right. Diagonal lump.

Up near the top of the crib toward the right is Bubs' head.

It often takes Bubs a while to fall asleep in the afternoons...so today was no exception. I went upstairs after about 20 min of "nap protest" and turned his music back on, and then after another 20 min of the protest had gone on, I went up to check again and to turn his music on. Only when I went in the room, I looked in the crib and there was no Bubs. I knew I had heard him on the monitor, so I knew he was there somewhere! I looked under his blanket in the crib - no Bubs. And then I noticed a diagonal-shaped lump under his top sheet. (We use one of those "Ultimate Crib Sheets" that snap onto the crib...they're awesome...if the baby wets/poops/spits up on the sheet, just unsnap it and there's a fresh fitted sheet underneath. No need to take the bumper out, change the fitted sheet, etc. Again, AWESOME if you don't have one. The Bean uses one too, and this is the first "incident" we've had w/ it in 2 1/2 years.) I thought, "No, he couldn't have crawled underneath his top sheet!" I mean, it snaps to the crib slats in 6 places! But Bubs found the one opening big enough to fit through, and he wriggled his way in there 'til you couldn't see one inch of him! It was hilarious, and being Mom of the Year, I immediately went for my camera instead of taking off the top sheet. Incidentally, he did fall asleep afterward.

Zoo Trip

2009-03-19T14:53:00.003-06:00

Aww! The Bean holding hands w/ her new friend, Micaiah. (Hope I spelled that right, Jessica K.!)
Lauren and the Bean

Micaiah, the Bean, Molly and Annie

We went to the zoo yesterday with some friends and had a great time! Oh, and half of Birmingham was also there. It was crazy crowded. Sorry there are no pics of Bubs, but he was chillin' in the stroller and wasn't as good of a "subject." Also, as a little money-saving tip, I recently found out you can join the Friends of the National Zoo (FONZ) and get free admission to the B'ham Zoo...and it's about $40 cheaper than a B'ham Zoo membership! Plus you can visit over 100 other nationwide zoos for free or discounted admission. Just check w/ your local zoo to make sure they honor the FONZ membership.

10 months!

2009-03-16T08:36:00.003-06:00

Note the curly hair.

Walking w/ the push toy.

Again w/ the curly hair!

Baby G is 10 months old! I can't believe that the one year mark is creeping up on us. He is pulling up on EVERYTHING and is cruising on the furniture. He's even using his push toy...and he can walk pretty good w/ it! But no standing up by himself yet. He pulled up in the bath tub the other night and fell and bonked his head on the faucet, poor guy! And this is random, but his hair is getting curly! (If any of you have kids w/ curly hair, please feel free to leave styling tips. I don't know anything about fixing curly hair!) We've added meats to his diet now, although he's not a big eater. But he is eating more and more table foods, which is nice. He's had the worst time w/ colds this winter (He'll get better for a week or two, then it's another week or two's worth of colds again.), but no ear infections yet, thank the Lord. And still only 4 teeth. I keep thinking he's getting more, but not so far. Also, I think I'm changing Baby G's online alias to Bubs. That's what we call him all the time, sadly. I need to start calling him by his real name, but I started calling him Bubs, and the Bean caught on, and the rest is history. Happy 10 month-a-versary, Bubs!

Easter Ideas

2009-03-06T09:26:00.002-06:00

I've been trying to think of some easy Easter crafts/activities to do w/ the Bean this season, and I'm having a hard time coming up w/ anything meaningful besides the Empty Tomb Cookies. I've also heard of the Resurrection Eggs, but I don't have any of those yet. I want to teach her about the resurrection, obviously...anybody have any ideas? Wooing My Flock, Blue Hutch...I'm counting on you two especially!!!

Snow Day '09

2009-03-02T10:54:00.004-06:00

Warming up w/ some hot chocolate

RR and the Bean only added to this snowman, I think...some other kids actually built it. There was also a 2nd snowman in this field...hence the lack of snow on the ground.

The kiddos and I...I do not have cold weather clothes either. I have on sweats, Timberlands, a hat and scarf, and my nice coat. I think I look kind of scary, actually. :)

Ian and the Bean...note the Bean's pageant feet. Thought that was funny.

All bundled up

Yesterday the Bean woke up to quite a surprise - snow! This was her first "real" snow...we had some flurries last year, but nothing significant, so this was her first time to see snow. She wasn't quite sure what she thought about it. She wasn't in any hurry to get outside, and once she got outside she was kind of just wandering about. :) Several of the neighborhood kids, including the Bean's friend Little I, were outside playing. Baby G and I made a very brief appearance outside, since he's a little under the weather right now. Then we came inside to warm up with some hot chocolate. It was a little interesting to dress the Bean to go play in the snow, since we really don't have a lot of cold weather clothing. The hat and gloves were 12-18 month size and therefore were squeezed on her, and we just layered up really good. She has a turtleneck, a sweater, a hoodie, and a coat. But just one pair of pants. Harder to layer pants. :) I honestly think she enjoyed the hot chocolate more than the snow, but RR and I had fun watching her play in it!

February Fun

2009-02-26T16:41:00.005-06:00

The Bean loves her some party hats...you can barely see her skates in this pic. Yes, I skated, and I didn't break anything!!

The cookie decorating extravaganza

The cookie decorating attendees

Here are some photos of the Bean and I having fun this past month. Our SS class had a cookie decorating party for Valentine's at the Galleria, and all the kids had a blast! The Bean decorated her cookie, but didn't even eat it. She did, however, ask for more gummi bears. I don't think any of those made it on her cookie. We also rode the carousel afterward, which was a big hit w/ the Bean.

My brother's b'day is also in Feb., and to celebrate his wife threw him a surprise roller skating party! We left Baby G w/ our neighbors and took the Bean to Uncle Drew's party in Gadsden. She was a little scared of the roller skates at first, but then decided to give it a try. RR didn't skate, so he walked around the rink w/ the Bean holding her by the armpits so she could "skate." She loved "walking on wheels", as she called it. She also got a glow bracelet (there were black lights in the rink, so that was super fun) and had some cookie cake. She had so much fun in fact, that she did not go to sleep on the way back but chatted it up with us until we put her to bed around 10 pm. :)

9 months

2009-02-24T14:09:00.004-06:00

Baby G is 9 months old (well, he turned 9 months a week or so ago...). He is crawling on his hands and knees now, and he is pulling up too. He is babbling some...saying bababa, mamama, and dadada. He is a big boy...he wears a size 12 months clothes, and he was 90% for height and 70% for weight at his 9 month check-up. The Bean loves him, and she usually wants to hold his hand when we walk down the stairs in the morning or after nap. We are starting to discipline him a little when he touches "no-no's", and judging by his reaction, he's going to be pretty stubborn! The Bean would usually start crying after I thumped her hand once or twice, but that didn't seem to deter Baby G at all, so we've already graduated to spanking his hand w/ the spoon. What am I in for?!?! He is eating lots of table foods now, and likes that much better than baby foods. And we are done w/ nursing! It is a little bittersweet, but I just glad we made it to 9 months. :) He is so sweet, and we love him so much!

Tasty Easy Lunch Idea

2009-02-14T22:29:00.003-06:00

As my husband will attest, I get REALLY tired of the turkey sandwich for lunch. Boring!! So I am always looking for a good lunch idea that's tasty, quick, healthy, and not boring. Here's my latest fave: the Bean and I have been making mini pizzas w/ mini whole wheat pitas as a "crust." Just spoon on some pizza sauce from a jar, put whatever toppings you have on hand (we like the low-fat turkey pepperoni (or macaronis, as the Bean will occasionally call them) and bell peppers and onions) and add some cheese. I even make them in our toaster oven, so it's super quick! And the Bean loves them.

Just wanted to share this for those of you out there who hate the turkey-cheese-bread-mustard sandwich just as much as me!!

Random pics from the last few weeks

2009-02-06T08:55:00.004-06:00

This was the day it was like 70 degrees outside. Baby G loved the swing!

The Bean loves her cheer shirt!

So, does this dress pinned up to look like a top look ok w/ these pants?

Oh dear. Is this what I'm in for with a boy???

Here are some random pics from the last few few weeks, but I do need your opinion on one of them. I made the Bean some pants to go w/ her Easter dress from last year so she could get one more year out of it...I need to hem the dress to make it look more like a top, but does it look ok? I thought the pants would be a little more blousy to go w/ the fuller top.

And about the TP pic of Baby G: while the Bean was trying on the aforementioned outfit, Baby G commando crawled into the bathroom and decided to make his first spitball. And yes, I took a picture b/f I took the toilet paper out of his mouth. Mom of the year!