A Slice of Life

Desktop Plaque

2011-12-12T01:36:00.001-06:00

  Desktop Plaque

Send custom cards from Shutterfly for St. Patrick's Day.

View the entire collection of cards.

Photo Card

2011-11-27T23:29:00.001-06:00

4x8 Photo Card Print Your 4X8 Photo Card

Create custom cards for Valentines Day and Easter at Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Artful Greeting Cards

2010-12-02T01:36:00.001-06:00

Classic Purple 5x7 folded card

Unique party invitations and announcements by Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Summer Memories

2010-09-02T13:55:00.002-05:00

So I am officially terrible at keeping photos updated on my blog, my facebook page, mailing out prints, and even editing my photos. I do however, LOVE making Shutterfly books!!! Here is my latest:

Click here to view this photo book.

Body Painting Bash

2010-07-22T10:43:00.003-05:00

During the week of Cambry's birthday, 2009, we had our play group over for some artful fun. Bare torsos, plenty of non-toxic ultra washable paint, and we were set for a super sensory experience.

This last picture is of an unexpected piece of art that form on the table in which the paint was set out.

Best Spongebob Party Ever!

2010-07-22T10:20:00.006-05:00

It may not have been the best, but we thought it was! I think I put more hours into preparing for this birthday party than I did...well I can't think of a good analogy right now, but you get the point. I tend to get obsessive over all the details and go completely overboard with these types of things. Go Big or Go Home? I have just always had it on my heart that I wanted to make a really big deal of each and every birthday the kids have.

So, here are some photo highlights from the party.
Invites:
Birthday Banner:
The Water Works, bounce house water slide:

Jellyfish Fields: (Way cooler in person, of course)
Party Favors:

The Spread:
Officially the BEST cake I have ever made, both taste and appearance:
The Moment that make it all worthwhile:

Catching Up

2010-07-22T10:12:00.003-05:00

My summer bucket list includes 4 blog posts a month. (Feel the need to update our log book.) As I opened the folder titled 'blog' on my computer I stumbled upon 11 folders holding pix just waiting to be added to the blog. I will most some must shares and then try and bring us to present day, considering most of these are from a year ago.

Guess Who...

Cambry on her 1st Birthday...

and her 2nd Birthday...

and her 3rd.

Check back in a few weeks, she turns 4 then. lol.

A Tidbit from the Performance

2010-06-20T13:20:00.004-05:00

Cambry had a year end performance and gallery art show to wrap up the pre-k year. The book below is the newest version of her art portfolio. (You may remember I made one in Dec of 2008.) Many of the art pieces were created at home, however, towards the end of the book, you can see her work from school - studies and recreations of works by Monet, Picasso, Warhol, Kandinsky, etc.

Click here to view this photo book.

Here is a clip from one of the songs are their performance.

She was a sleepy bear for the play, the first part of the performance. She was not on stage two seconds before she started searching the crowd for us. Apparently the stage lights were getting in the way.

Complete hilarity!

Here she is during the play - acting her part as the sleepy bear.

Off stage preparing for the song and dance number.

Happy Father's Day Grandpa!

2010-06-20T13:15:00.000-05:00

Because I Won't Be Able to Much Longer...

2009-11-03T15:03:00.005-06:00

The babies are growing up SO fast. Sometimes my only rationale for doing this is "because I won't be able to do them much longer." This is the same line of thinking that drove me to cut Cambry's hair myself. You may remember how short Cambry's hair was earlier this year when we moved to Texas. Check Here

This was her hair at the beginning of August.

I wanted to trim it before I took her 3 year photos, so away we went. She had a whole spa experience, complete with mani and pedi. :)

I started trimming just a tad. At one point she turned her head quickly and I cut several inches in one place. It ended up much shorter than I originally planned, but cute none-the-less.

Time Flies When You're Having Fun

2009-11-03T14:30:00.005-06:00

Yes, it's quite sad that I haven't posted on my once daily blog in nearly two months now. It is even more sad that I am about to post about a trip that happened in July of this year. :) I should just catch you up with present day events, but hey, the pictures are cute - I have to share. (Well, really, I should be ironing my work jacket, not blogging. ahem.)

In July, we took our first annual "Mommy and Kiddo Road Trip" to Navarre Beach, FL. Three Moms, four kids, one mini van, and enough snacks to feed an army for a week - what more could we need? The trip was such a wonderful learning and bonding experience.

What I learned from 8 days on the road with a group of my favorite people:
1 - Silence, even for a moment, is always golden.
2 - I do not appreciate the way sand feels anywhere other than on my feet.
3 - Having first time experiences through the innocent eyes of an child, melts the heart like none other.
4 - It is wonderful to have a hug from your friends, even when you see them multiple times a day.
5 - Patience is even harder to come by than energy when I have the flu.
6 - Having friendships in which you can disagree yet not loose respect for one another, is priceless. (Love you ladies!)

Raymond's Grandma had us over to her house one day. She is an artist, and opened her studio for our budding artists to create. So fun.

After having the stomach flu for the first three days of the trip, I decided I needed a breadk, so we skipped the beach and headed to the splash pad.

Raymond's Grandpa took us out for the day on his boat! Awesome!

"Mom, there are still some refried beans on that spoon."

Boston LOVES the water, especially the salt water. He kept putting his face in a the smacking and licking his lips.

The was the sound side (above and below). The water was calmer there.

This photo I took just before sunset on the gulf side. Yes, the sand was really that white. :)

Look Out World

2009-09-18T17:36:00.004-05:00

(Photo courtesy of my friend, Courtney)

Do you even recognize this boy? Oh my goodness. My little guy is 11 months old now. He is super busy and super curious. His current favorites include climbing up onto the table, splashing in the toilet water, banging the computer mouse on the desk, tearing magazines, and emptying the drawers in his room. He loves to hide and does it often as a joke. He has quite the sense of humor. He loves to join in conversation with others; the delayed laugh he belts out (after everyone begins to laugh) is hilarious. He LOVES to play in the water and to sing. He likes to eat, of course, and is on all table food now. Although he enjoys most foods, he is very particular about what he wants to eat at each sitting. He is not afraid to 'send it back' if it is not up to standards.

Holiday Happenings

2009-09-16T18:11:00.004-05:00

While in Omaha, for Independence Day, we joined a family friend and her wonderful family for a holiday BBQ gathering. I might add that at this fabulous party I met a man who had taken some of the most incredible photos I have ever seen. He played a slide show for me that afternoon. Some of the other people at the party joined to view his work. I seemed impressed. I had to interrupt their comments to say, "I don't think you really understand. This man has captured things we would never see with the naked eye. We are not that focused as people." (For example, the reflection of the house in the water droplet on the blade of grass in the back yard.) This man brought such perspective to how intricate this universe really is. And...and...he let me touch his Canon 5D Mark II !! I got to shoot some with it too. Truth be told, as much as I have sought after my own SLR, I have never actually held one...until that day! The sound of the shutter is enough to stand are my arm hairs on end. :)

These pictures were not taken with the 5D, just with my point and shoot, but they were taken that day at the party.

358 Days

2009-09-16T17:16:00.004-05:00

(Thanks in advance for the therapy *grin.*)
This is the number of days our house has been on the market now. It is actually being shown tonight, in about 30 minutes. We are beginning the rental process and will take that option soon to supplement the mortgage payment. It will not pay the mortgage but it will hopefully pay 2/3. Here is our listing. Realtor.com If you know anyone who is in the market for a new home, we would really appreciate the referral.

Over the 4th of July, the kids and I drove to Omaha again. Grandma Chris spent a lot of time with the kids while I did some work on the house. After working hard, I sat on the back porch one afternoon. We lived on the top of the hill so I was able to soak up the sun and look out over the entire neighborhood. Until I lived in that house, I always referred to 'home' as my parents' house. This house was home and so much more to me. Those walls held millions of memories from our new lives together. My new life with Joe and our new lives with both children. I was heartbroken, welling up with tears, as I sat there reflecting on backyard BBQs, sledding through the snow in the yard, late night card games, holidays, the children that came to play each day, and all the love, comfort and security of the life we lived there. How could someone not want a place I wanted so much? I know now it is not that people don't want 'my' house, they just don't want the house. And really, the market for homes outside of the 'first time home buyers range' in Omaha have not had any traffic in the current economy. I truly try to be optimist about the whole situation. The truth is, I feel lost. Lost is an anxiety filled, uncomfortable feeling for me. I wonder if we made the right choice to move, and if we should even be trying to sell the house. I find it difficult to be consistently faithful despite the long wait. I do understand that everything will work out and that this too shall pass...things always do. During the interlude, I am searching for strength and peace, and would appreciate your prayers and thoughts.

Although this is not the typical tone of our blog, I really do appreciate those of you who took the time to read about our struggle. I know so many have it so much worse and that we are very fortune and bountifully blessed in our lives.

Here are some pictures of a couple of things I was able to get done.

I Missed This Week

2009-09-16T17:00:00.003-05:00

I missed this week at I ♥ Faces. This week participants were to post a "Contemplative" photo. I found this photo is my stack of 'photos to post on my blog.'

Gram Takes on the Heat

2009-09-16T15:32:00.007-05:00

After we returned home from Omaha, my mom came down to Houston to visit. This time it was actually hot...yeah, like 110 hot. I had to return the Traverse that week, uhhhh - I'm over it now though. :) It was really, really nice to drive a brand new car for 8 weeks. This was a first for me. I have never had a brand new car. We spent the whole day detailing both cars and preparing for the return. Cambry was thrilled (as you can tell - see below) to have the 'lady bug' car back.

Or was it that she was thrilled to finally be let behind the steering wheel? Ironically, after I returned the Traverse, the A/C quit working in my Equinox, again. I am knocking on wood as we speak. Although my car has recently been dubbed the 'holy car,' yes literally. Every time something goes wrong with it, it is due to a hole in that particular part. However, we have been new hole free for 3 1/2 months. Yeah! My Mom was a trooper, didn't complain about the heat even once, even when we drove 30 minutes to church without A/C. We even spent the whole day one day down at Hermann Park. This was a great experience for all of us!

One of Cambry's favorite things to do with Gram is to have a popcorn tea party.

Thanks for coming Gram! We can't wait to have you in Houston again.

For Sale in Omaha...Still

2009-09-07T01:24:00.004-05:00

When we were home in June we decided to spend a little money to 'stage' the house a bit; it had been sitting completely empty for 5+ months. We did not add any furniture, just some decorative pieces. We hoped this would bring some life to the property.

Omaha and Family in June

2009-09-07T01:01:00.006-05:00

Omaha was a very nice break from the heat, among other things.

7 Decades Ago

2009-09-07T00:41:00.005-05:00

Hewlett Packard was founded.
Tina Turner was born.
Frank Sinatra was discovered in a road side cafe.
World War II began.
You could buy a gallon of milk, a loaf of bread, and a stamp - all for 60 cents.
Gasoline was 19 cents / gallon
And...
Grandma Chris was born! All four of us drove up to Omaha, all 1000 miles in one day, to spend time with our family and celebrate a bit. We spent the first couple days sneaking around, making sure the visitors arrived safely - the party and it's guests were all a surprise. The weekend was filled with nostalgia and laughter. Thanks to everyone who helped make the party such a special weekend for Chris, and all of us too! We had such a wonderful time with everyone.

What Have We Been Up To?

2009-09-06T23:56:00.006-05:00

I really don't have an answer to justify the amount of time I have left my blog without any real, updated substance. Before I blinked last it was June 3rd and we were packing to head up to Omaha. I am not sure beginning this post (a post meant to tide you all over for another week) at midnight is the best idea either. (I have used the backspace key more than all the other combined. ahem) So let me just post a few pictures for now...keep in mind most of these are from about three months ago. Enjoy! Stay tuned, oh, and thanks for the nagging (nagging may be a little strong, let's go with persuasion.) :)

Visions of tokens, tickets, and pizza dance in her head.

Yes, that's pink eye. We all caught it, some of us twice. And then there was the Influenza B, the ear infections, strep throat, and sinus infections. That was a great couple of weeks. :)

After that, we spent some time just hanging around.

I think all children's movies are shown in 3-D now-a-days. 'UP' was our first family movie, and it still serves as many a reference point in our house.

Life requires bits of spunk.

I ♥ Faces - "At the Beach"

2009-07-27T00:54:00.006-05:00

It has been quite awhile since I posted a photo for an I ♥ Faces photo challenge. Being the theme is week is "At the Beach," and I love the beach, I had to make sure an submit a photo. I have many, many photos from our most recent trip to the beach, however had not edited any of them. So, here is the next best thing!

So you haven't been to the beach this year? Or ever? Why not live vicariously through all the photo submissions at I ♥ Faces. Enjoy!

Boston is 9 months! (Again, 2 weeks ago)

2009-07-27T00:18:00.003-05:00

At his 9 month well check, Boston was 22lbs 14oz. and right at 30" tall. (Cambry was three pounds and one inch less.)

At Nine Months:

No more pacifier!
His top two teeth are starting to show, and he is working on two others.
He loves all the sounds his hands can make on different surfaces.
He loves to talk to, and attempt to eat, the "bay-be" in the mirror.
He finds being upside down thrilling.
He is terrified of the vacuum.
He enjoys feeding himself.
He finds hic-cups to be hilarious!
He is quite the comedian. He pulls on Papa's leg and chest hairs and then laughs. (among other things)
Enjoys playing with Cambry most of all. He follows her everywhere, imitating her along the way. When she screams, he screams. When she laughs, he laughs. Their favorite game is to be pirates sailing on the ocean in the beanbag boat. He watches for her ques...she shrieks as the sea creature attacks the boat...just a moment later, in a sort of grumbly low voice, he yells "Ah!" So cute!

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

2009-07-24T14:40:00.005-05:00

Can you believe it has been 23 days since I last posted on my blog? This is so unlike me. :D I have been pondering for three days now where I should even start. For now, I do a little Friday Funny and follow up with many, many updates and photos tonight and tomorrow.

Because it doesn't matter.

On a serious note: Why is it that women, strangers, particularly over the age of 30, find it necessary to point out that your child has their shoes on the "wrong" feet or that your child has their pants on the "wrong" way - as if it is a reflection of your parenting skills or lack there of? Because it's not the way you do it, is it wrong? As parents we hear enough whining, if the child were uncomfortable, clearly we would hear about it. Alright, I'm stepping off the soapbox.

Cam insists on doing everything herself...she is proud, regardless of the outcome. The other day when told that her Mommy takes care of her, she quickly interrupted saying, "No, I take care of myself." Of course she does. :)

Spending time with other children is an essential part of childhood. In doing this, we inevitably see what other children get away with and come right home to test our own parents. This was the case with Cambry during the first half of this week. She was displaying some rotten behaviors. Our trip to Target on Wednesday was a nightmare! A giant episode ended with her barreling (playfully yelling too) down the isle knocking down what seemed like 100 of these 'summer items.' I am uncertain as to how my body or face reacted. The only thing I could say, very seriously, was "Get in the cart." I finished my shopping and planned to talk about the issues in the car. As I was backing out of our parking space, she called to me. I answered, of course, and she said, "Thanks for not giving me a spanking...I know I needed it." Yes, you can laugh. I am not a perfect parent, and yes, she has had a spanking before - maybe twice - once for sure. It was not one of my prouder moments either. I just thought the self evaluation she made was hilarious.

Cambry has a new thing (for 3 - 4 months now) where if you don't know what she said, she will give you an example. She used to just repeat the word, enunciating more each time. For example, this past week she was asking a friend of my if she could type on her "Cunum-puter." My friend asked her to repeat the word. "Cunum-puter...you know, like Cunum." Oh, yes, we get it now. ;) Sometimes her examples don't make sense. So this week she was asking me for some type of cracker. Over the babies playing, I was not able to hear her. "Cream-cracker, you know, like the cream you put on your butt." I thought I did a pretty good job of keeping my post pregnancy needs to myself - guess not. Thankfully, I later found out she was referring to the cream we put on Boston's butt. Graham cracker is what she actually wanted.

My it feels good to have actually completed a blog post! Thanks for the therapy. :) Until later.

Boston is 8mos (two weeks ago)

2009-07-01T09:22:00.005-05:00

(So the list of blog posts has taken the back burner lately - more on that later.)

My little guy started pulling himself up to stand just before we went Omaha in June (about 7 1/2 months). It all started one morning when I went to get him up and he was standing up in his crib - beaming of course.
By the time we were headed back home, he had it mastered - pulling up on anything that would provide even slight stability.
He has two teeth on the bottom now, and is not afraid to bite for comfort. He is doing well with his words too. He uses Ma-ma and Pa-pa to call for us. He also says 'Bay-be' when we talk about him or play in the mirror.
My boy is busy as ever now that he can get where he wants to go. Our church group used to ask "Where's Busy?" when I didn't bring Cambry along. I agreed with them until I had to chase Boston the last month. Wow! He won't even sit still on my lap to eat - too much to see and do out there. :D He loves to be with Cambry every chance he gets. It's bitter sweet to think of him running after her - soon my little bear, soon.

Remembering a Legend

2009-06-25T23:04:00.000-05:00

Say what you may. I do not choose to, nor it is my style to follow the personal lives and endeavors (positive or negative) of celebrities. My conservative upbringing did not endorse following his work either. I imagine my parents thought of Michael Jackson much like their parents thought of Elvis. Nonetheless, the music of Michael Jackson could quite possibly serve as a soundtrack to my life. His music has been with me everywhere for as long as I can remember. His talent and title of the number one selling music artist of all time leaves me speechless.

Please enjoy the below video, what I believe to be one of his greatest performances ever, as a celebration of his career and my condolences to his family and loved ones.

Wordful, I've Been Warned, Wednesday

2009-06-24T23:51:00.000-05:00

Over the past few days, a few of the writers on blogs I follow have been informed that their images and content have been stolen. Images of their children and work have been seen posted on other blogs / websites and even on Ebay to help sell things. YIKES! I keep my blog mostly for the pleasure of family and friends, as well as the therapy aspect of it for myself. It never occurred to me take precautions so that my blog is not preyed on by pirates.

I am still trying to recover from my third computer crash in 6 months (Go PC! Ahem.) so, I do not have the man power, or the dedication to go back and fix all the previously posted photos. From this point on however, all images will be low resolution, watermarked, web ready images.

So, what do you think of my little (text only) watermark on this dreamy photo I took at the park the other week?

I ♥ Faces - "Let's Hear it For the Boys!"

2009-06-23T16:39:00.002-05:00

I can not believe the amount of work Angie and & Amy, co-founders of I ♥ Faces, have cut out for them each week. As always, there are tons of amazing entries this week. You can check them out here I ♥ Faces. My entry will be #390 (or something like that) in the kids category for Wk. 24 "Let's Hear it For the Boys!"

This photo of my little guy was taken a couple of days after he turned 8 months old. Can you believe how time flies? Clearly it slips by, right under my nose, as I have not even posted yet about our trip home or him turning 8 months. Soon, really.

He has these captivating, dark chocolate colored eyes and this brilliant caramel colored skin. I can't help but want to squeeze him all day long. I love you, my handsome little man!

For Their Dad

2009-06-21T23:58:00.003-05:00

I found my self digging deep for some creative juices this year. I didn't feel it appropriate for me to say "Hey Papa Joe, can I have some of the money we don't have to go and buy you a gift?" I am not great at gift giving anyway, because I feel that I need to give something meaningful or nothing at all. I eventually came up with what I thought was a wonderful idea and it would only cost me some time an a couple of dollars in change. The idea was to make a print similar to those motivational posters but have the photo be of Joe and the children. One print of Joe and Cam and one of he and Boston. (I was inspired by this post by Little Birdie Secrets.) The trouble is, I did not have a photo of Joe and Boston that matched what I wanted and, well, Papa Joe will take about one picture a week if you are done in less than 10 seconds. Now that he knows what I am up to, he assures me he will cooperate at his next available free moment, that is during peak outdoor lighting time. (So I will post Boston's poster in a couple of months. hehe.) For now, here is Cambry's - click on the image to enlarge it if you like.

For the inside of his card, I decided to interview Cambry about her Papa. Here is how it turned out:

What is something Papa always says to you? – He calls me his little girl.

What makes Papa happy? - When I give him a drawing.

What is Papa really good at? - Taking care of me

What is Papa not very good at? - Jumping

Where is Papa’s favorite place to go? - Work

What to you like most about Papa? - I like his shoulders, his back, and his hair.
(Shoulders and back because she like to climb on them...just a guess)

What does Papa do for a job? - Work.
What kind of work? - He makes food and drinks too.

What is Papa’s favorite color? - Black like his hair.

How tall is Papa? - He sure is a big man guy…isn’t he.

What is your favorite thing to do with Papa? - Play. Play horsey, play hide and seek. Those are Papa’s favorite games.

What is Papa’s favorite thing on TV? - Baseball, football, and golfball.

How old is Papa? – He’s older…same as me.

What is Papa’s favorite food? – Noodles

If Papa were a cartoon character, who would he be? - He would be Scooby and I would be Shaggy. We would jump right into the TV.

How to you know Papa loves you? - He makes it like *this* with his hand.
(He signs 'I Love You' to her.)

Happy Father's Day Papa Joe! I am so blessed to have you as my partner in our walk as parents. Thanks for all you do!

For My Dad

2009-06-21T23:24:00.006-05:00

My dad is incredible and very special to me; someone that I admire, respect and always look forward to spending time with. My dad has taught me many things throughout my life; I thought today would be a great day to share some of them here.
- Be consciously competent; work purposefully and with all your being.
- Jokes are mostly for the enjoyment of the joker.
- The health of your body is a daily, life-long dedication.
- Always act in such a way that if a person said something negative about you, no one would believe them.
- It is not ever effective or necessary to raise your voice when communicating.
- Remain consistent and dedicated even when you are not given the recognition or pay you may deserve.
- Do not excuse good ideas or goals just because they can not be accommodated today.

(Please excuse the poor quality of these scanned photos.)

Thanks for a lifetime of inspiration Dad, Happy Father's Day!

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

2009-06-19T15:34:00.002-05:00

Because My Family ♥s Videos

2009-06-18T01:14:00.003-05:00

I did create one final Mommy Madness video too. (A Final Walk Around) It is more informative and less entertaining so I didn't post it here. If you really want to see it, let me know. :)

Wordless WednesdaySchlitterbahn, Galveston Island

2009-06-17T01:00:00.003-05:00

*Footnotes are not tallied in the word count of the body.

[begin footnote]
Schlitterbahn, Galveston Island was a fourth and final Mommy Mission for the Mommy Madness promotion. (Thanks for all your support!) Schiltterbahn is noted as one of the top 10 waterparks in the world. We went two weeks ago just before heading up to Omaha. This was probably one of the best days we have had in TX so far! (Helps when you are in great company)
[end footnote]

Giveaways to Get in On

2009-06-15T23:35:00.005-05:00

I have two great giveaways for you this week.

How darling are these shoes? Story of a Princess is having a great giveaway for your choice of shoes from See Kai Run. They make comfortable, flexible rubber soled shoes for babies and toddlers (both girls and boys, although I only posted pix of little guy kicks) Click the Story of a Princess link above for more information and how you can enter to win. P.S. These shoes are on the wish list for Boston's first pair of shoes. :)

Are you ready for the VIZIO Million Dollar Event? Turns out it has been going on for a few months now, and I just found out about it. So, I'm sharing with you. Here is the scoop, click the link above to enter to win a 55" VIZIO LCD HGTV worth $1999.99. (One entry per household. The sooner you enter the more chances you have.) 17 TVs will be given away each week until August 14th, 2009. (24 TVs will be given away on the last week.) We all need one of these TVs before football season right?

I ♥ Faces - "Sepia Toned"

2009-06-15T22:45:00.005-05:00

Week 23 at I ♥ Faces is a Sepia Toned Theme. My photo editing software doesn't have the best sepia action, however I did start with a couple of photos I really liked. This is my first week to enter both the adult and kids categories. Sepia is apparently a really popular theme at I ♥ Faces. I am the 320th Kids entry and the 165th Adult entry. Wow! Stop by and check out the other entries if you like.

Kids Entry: This photo of my Cambry girl was taken just this weekend. Oh how she love to dress up. Joe commented on how much better he thought my photography has gotten since I have started participating in the I ♥ Faces challenges. *blush* (It made me really proud though.) Now if I can just get my hands on a new camera. :)

Adult Entry: This photo was taken at last month at a train event we attended. This man had such a story about his presence. I couldn't help but think of my grandpa as I watched him. The photo is not as clear as I would have liked, but I was standing quite far away.

Thanks for stopping by! I will be back tomorrow with all our trip updates. Thanks for tolerating my random comic posts while we have been out of town. Take care.

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

2009-06-12T23:56:00.002-05:00

It is probably best if you not view this at work...unless everyone else is at lunch. Hilarious though! (Pretty much everything they do is great; I just heard this one for the first time last week.)

Only One Week Left

2009-06-08T00:37:00.002-05:00

There is only one week left of the Mommy Madness Promotion! One week! Can you believe it? I am going to be so sad the day I have to return Trini. She has been a wonderful part of our family the past 7 weeks. To avoid getting all sappy about a car, let me get to the meat of the post quickly.

Vote, vote, vote - please. (You don't have to vote for me, but do vote.) lol. Each time you vote on the Mommy Madness site, you are entered to win a weekend getaway for four to Barton Creek in Austin, TX. (You have to be a TX resident to vote.) Wicked is playing in Austin in August; I've heard it's AMAZING! So there you go, a musical, spa services, golf, dinner, and quiet time. Go on, get over there an vote. I want you to win!

Oh, and don't forget, there is just one more week to test drive the Traverse for a free massage at Massage Envy. Stop by any Houston area Chevy Dealership, tell them you are driving the Traverse for the Mommy Madness promotion, and earn a gift certificate for a massage. It's that easy. :)

Enjoy! Thanks for your support. I love you all!

The Words That Drive Me

2009-06-07T00:57:00.001-05:00

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

2009-06-05T00:52:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2009-06-03T23:59:00.001-05:00

A Commitment...AndGiveaways to Get in On

2009-05-31T23:21:00.011-05:00

Tonight I went out for a run again. I have had some crazy trouble with my legs lately - insane shin splints. Friday I only ran 3/4 of a mile before the pain forced me to hurl. I felt as though I would puke again for about 2 hours after I quit that day. (Yes, I know you are really glad I am sharing this part with you. Hang in there, the good stuff is coming.) A gal that was running the training program reminded me that I needed to run at least a couple of times in the next week so that I would not loose all that I had worked for. Determined not to let my legs get the best of me, I prepared to run tonight. (Preparing to run takes a lot of conscious effort, for me, for an entire day before hand.) I went down to one of my new favorite places to run (favorite because I can take a new route every time). I took a wrong turn somewhere, or missed a turn somewhere. After awhile I asked someone about to pass me where this trail headed. I knew the road they mentioned, so I kept on going, figuring I would turn back when I got there. My legs were opening up and I was feeling really good so I kept going. I was even able to sprint the last 1/3 + mile. I have now idea how long I ran and didn't know until I got home and hit Map My Run how far I had ran. 4.53 miles was the total distance - I walked just under a 1/4 mile to begin and also to finish. I ran just over 4 miles tonight!! As you can tell (by the long story) I am completely thrilled with myself. Have I told you lately that I love to run? I decided tonight that running is like a marriage...Sticking with it through the bad times is a must because when it is good, it's oh so good. :)

Drum roll please....

(Wait for it)

Today, Sunday night, May the 31st is the official day that I am committing to run the Houston 1/2 marathon along side 11,000 other people (11,000 more will run the full) this coming January. I am so pumped!

Now for some giveaways that I have come across and thought you might be interested in. (Again, these mostly appeal to my female readers, sorry guys.)

Bob Gear is giving away a Stroller Strides BOB Stroller to the winner of the best 'Workout Outfit Photo.' The contest runs through June 29th.
I could not live without my BOB!
Thanks Mom!

Athleta, the new GAP company has a Private Surf Safari Sweepstakes. (I have been entering daily, of course.) The giveaway includes round trip airfare to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, four night accommodations in an ocean front villa, daily meals, daily yoga, daily private surf lessons, and an Athleta wordrobe valued at $1500. (This trip is for 2 people. If you win, will you take me?) Enter to Win

Frigidaire wants to know what you would do with an extra hour of time each day. Visit Frigidaire and enter by telling them five things you would do with a much needed extra hour of time. All participants will be entered for a chance to win an entire suite of NEW Frigidaire appliances. You can also enter for your chance to win the new Frigidaire Affinity washer / dryer combo.

Katy Sunrise 5K

2009-05-31T00:19:00.005-05:00

Last weekend was my first official 5K. I had some pretty tough leg trouble earlier in the week, and was afraid I wouldn't be able to run the entire race. Lots of ice, massaging, and 240 oz of water later...I finished the race! This is quite the accomplishment for me. I believe I was still in high school the last time I ran a mile, and never before had I ran 3 miles. I finished the 3.1 mile race in 37:43 - more than 2 minutes under my goal time. If I can work through these leg issues, I am going to commit to running the 1/2 marathon here in Houston, in January. Want to join me?

The Mother-load is OverloadingFriday Frump...In Need of a Funny

2009-05-30T23:56:00.003-05:00

I was definitely in the frump/slump today - the reoccurring slump that usually takes over sometime after Joe has been working tons, my house has fallen apart, we are out of everything, and I am behind on my entire life. Oh look at that, I'm even behind on the blog post - Friday Funny on a Saturday? So much into Saturday, that it is nearly Sunday. The slump took over today, and I did nothing other than tend to my children and pig out - even drank whole milk, oh how I love the creamy goodness of all that is whole milk. I always end up here - How in the h*%# did this happen? Ever had one of those days? It's been on replay all week for me. (I do realize this is not starting off all that funny.)

Time to snap out of it. A 'Friday Funny' post ought to lighten things up a bit, right? Trouble is I couldn't think of a funny from this week. I am sure there were plenty; I just couldn't manage to think of one. So off I went in search of something to post. Immediately after opening a file I have on my computer (for just such occasions); I knew exactly what I would post.

Keep in mind this is completely inappropriate. I will not apologize however, because it makes me laugh every time.

Because My Family ♥s Videos

2009-05-29T22:39:00.004-05:00

The next two are videos I made for the Mommy Madness Promotion. Mommy Madness Houston Site Joe votes the bottom one as the 'Best Video Yet.' :) Enjoy!

As Promised, the Runner Up

2009-05-28T13:34:00.000-05:00

I was having a difficult time (again) deciding which photo to submit to the I ♥ Faces weekly photo contest. Here was my second choice.

Thanks for stopping by.

Wordful, That Leaves Me Speachless, Wednesday

2009-05-28T01:10:00.001-05:00

Oh bity girl, you have graced us with your presence a mere 1012 days now (2 yrs, 9 months, and 8 days). I was sitting, rocking, in the chair with Boston today when you woke up from your nap. I became lost in your eyes as you asked questions and carried a conversation to bring yourself up to date on the household happenings. I quickly became speechless as I soaked up everything you are. It is unbelievable that you are not even three years old yet. You have wisdom and personality far beyond your years. You make precise requests, offer assistance, give predictions and detailed descriptions - all unprompted. You provide optimistic evaluations and solutions. You have a genuine concern for the well being of others; and are quick to lend a hand, encourage, and congratulate your friends. You respect our mother / daughter relationship yet demand equality in our friendship. I am SO proud to be your mama! You are one of the most beautiful souls I have ever had the pleasure of spending my life with. Keep up the good work kiddo. I love you!

I ♥ Faces - Wk. 20 "Silhouettes"

2009-05-27T18:41:00.006-05:00

This week at I ♥ Faces was something I actually planned ahead for. (Funny how I am habitual about planning, yet always wait until the last minute to finish/arrive/post, etc. Always running to the finish line I am.) I have never taken a silhouette photo, nor even thought of taking one. Thanks to Susan Keller's Silhouette Tutorial, I quickly learned the technique and found some great inspiration. I immediately knew who my subjects would be, then it was just a matter of finding the right setting. (That's where the planning comes into play.)

Over the Moon About Her Daddy

You still have a few hours to enter the contest if you like. Or just stop by I ♥ Faces for some inspiration. Check back in a bit; I will be posting the runner up photo as well.

Mommy Madness Houston Soundbites

2009-05-23T23:03:00.001-05:00

I'm on the radio, and not just for winning a prize! Thursday was such a cool afternoon. Joe was able to sneak away from work for a hour so that I could drive out to CBS radio to record soundbites for the new Mommy Madness radio commercials. I have to give all the staff at CBS radio credit, radio is much more intricate than I once believed. Generally not nervous at functions like this, I actually had to talk myself down, all the equipment was quite intimidating.

I could not figure out how to put audio on the blog (not easily anyways), so you will have to look at this lovely picture of Valerie (fellow Mommy Blogger), Natalie Mix 96.5 Radio Personality, and myself, for the entire minute commercial. Enjoy!

If you have not been to the Mommy Madness Houston Site in a while. Make sure to stop by. While you are there, please vote for your favorite Mommy Blogger. (Yes, you can pick me if you like.) Click the "Vote for the Madness" box on the right. Each time you vote, you will be entered to win a weekend getaway for four to Barton Creek Resort and Spa in Austin, TX. (You have to be a TX resident to vote, sorry to all my super supportive out of town family and friends.) Thank you! I really appreciate your vote.

Giveaways to Get in On

2009-05-22T09:51:00.005-05:00

The Story of a Princess and Her Hair is giving away a $200 flat iron on her site this month. This site has been one of my main sources of inspiration when styling Cambry's hair. There are tons of ways to enter. Check it out!

I ♥ Faces is having an AMAZING giveaway this week! (Although their giveaway are always super cool and really generous, I especially love the art form this week.) Here are a couple of examples of the art pieces created from regular photographs by the artists at All Pop Art . Visit this I ♥ Faces page to find out how to enter to win a piece of art of your own. Oh, and make sure to add a couple of these to my wish list. :)

I'm Your Biggest Fan!

2009-05-22T01:04:00.002-05:00

This is about 5 minutes long - just to give you a heads up.

This was an incredible experience for me, as well as for Joe's restaurant. The event was a live radio broadcast, of the largest food and restaurant radio show in the state of TX, during a 3 course lunch. So much fun!

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

2009-05-22T00:44:00.002-05:00

So a couple of weeks ago we hired a babysitter to watch the kids while Joe and I went out for his birthday. As usual, Cambry was be prepped / educated about the evenings events. After I had finished explaining this for what I thought was the last time, she said to me, "You take Boston and the babysitter with you. I will stay home by myself. I got this. I can handle it." (Word for word. I wrote it down and have been saving it to share.) And so it begins...

As we were in the check out lane the other night at the grocery store, we saw a man wearing a patch over his eye. "Look Mommy, a pirate!" (Of course she said it loud enough for even the man stalking milk in the diary department to hear.) I then explained to her what exactly a pirate is and that sometimes when people hurt their eye they need a patch to protect it. This does not make them a pirate even though their patch might look like what a pirate would wear. We paid and loaded everything into the car. While driving home she asked, "If I go home and hurt my eye, can I have a patch like a pirate would wear?"

Still struggling with my weight loss journey, I like to torture myself my 'weighing in' daily. Cambry caught eye of the event yesterday and asked me to do her. "What's my number?" she inquired. 30. She wanted Boston to be next. His number was 20. "What is your number Mommy?" 200. "Is that the BIGGEST number EVER?" Yes, it is. I will be on TV next week. (Thanks Donni)

Because My Family Likes Videos

2009-05-21T08:04:00.002-05:00

The first two are from about a month ago.

Stay tuned for more Boston videos and a video of Papa Joe!

Working Towards a Wordless Wednesday

2009-05-20T23:47:00.003-05:00

(Taken while driving)

I ♥ Faces - Wk. 19 "Blurb Photo Book"Amateur Entry

2009-05-19T14:27:00.006-05:00

This week is a bit different at I ♥ Faces. This week, the winner's photos will be published in the new I ♥ Faces Blurb Book. Thanks to all of you who voted on my previous post to help me choose my submission - best face photo ever. Wow was this a tough decision! Looking at technique and composition, this would not qualify as the best face photo I have ever taken. The best face however - you bet. This is my Cambry (sorry to burst the bubbles of those who thought it was Boston). She is one of my favorite faces to capture, and I think it all started the day I took this photo. It was a candid shot. We were down in the office working (as you can tell by the newspapers on the floor) and she was daydreaming. I can see the whole world in that little face. Thanks again for your help. Wish me luck!

"I am submitting this photo into the www.iheartfaces.com Blurb Book photo contest. I am granting I ♥ Faces permission to use my photo in a printed version of a book for commercial use and possibly advertising of a photo book on both the Blurb and I ♥ Faces web sites."

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

2009-05-15T15:43:00.004-05:00

This week I am compelled to post something this is not actually funny, but rather something I need to laugh at constantly to make bearable.
As you can see by my once jeans turned faux capris, I am in denial. Shorts are almost my least favorite article of clothing, listed just below Muu Muus and leggings. I commented the other day how, living in Omaha, I wouldn't even go outdoors when it was 95 degrees with a nearly equal humidity percentage, yet here I run and play all day. Yep, that's true denial for you.

Which One Should I Submit?

2009-05-14T22:00:00.006-05:00

I ♥ Faces has a new twist on their weekly contest this upcoming week. There will be two categories, one for amateurs and one for professional photographers. The winners will have their picture printed in the new I ♥ Faces Blurb book. The top three winners will also receive a copy of the book. The goal is to submit the best 'face' photo you have ever taken. The photo should have only one face, two tops. And the photo should have a face as the main focus.

I need your help. These are the best face photos I think I have taken. Can you please post a comment and let me know which one you think I should submit? Thanks for your help! (Or, if you remember a photo that you think is better, let me know.)

Our Princess & Her Hair IV

2009-05-14T12:09:00.004-05:00

It has been quite some time since I posted about hair styles. We still fix her hair most days; I have just been in a rut, making the same styles over and over. Realizing I needed to get creative again, I have a few new pictures.

This is our first original hairstyle, the first style we made without copying someone else. (I am sure someone has done this, just now that we have seen.) We liked it so much, we did a repeat a few days later.

Pin Curls

The after math. Hehe.

Working Towards a Wordless WednesdayPictures Taken from the Chevy Traverse

2009-05-13T19:23:00.001-05:00

I ♥ Faces - Kids Entry, Wk. 18 Laughter

2009-05-12T20:58:00.000-05:00

I ♥ Faces Wk. 18 'Laughter' - Kids Entry

What a fun topic. I have so many pictures of Cambry laughing. For the sake of a contest, I decided to take new picture. More than half the time they are together, Cam and Papa Joe are laughing. Silly willies. :) Check out I ♥ Faces for all the other 'Laughter' entries. I am entering at the very end of this weeks contest. You should give it a shot next week though.

It's All Because of You

2009-05-10T23:26:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful Moms in my life, especially to my mom and Joe's mom!

Joe is out working his tail off again. He left for work at 6:15 this morning. Yikes! The mid day report was that there were slammed, and sold $16,500 worth of eggs. You Go Chef Joe! LOL.

Today I celebrate the two beauties who make me a mother this Mother's Day. I find so much joy in watching their little lives blossom. I am truly blessed.

All Girl:
- She is thoughtful and independent.
- She says things like, "Ewww! I'm all sweaty!" and "I can't ride the slide; a bug touched it."
- She's a chocoholic.
- She's always on the phone.
- She's a backseat driver.
- She screams if you don't pay attention to her.
- She won't leave the house with out lip gloss.

All Boy:
- He slobbers.
- He drools.
- His feet smell.
- He has boogers.
- He loves watching ESPN with Papa.
- He can't stand the fuss of lotion, hair combing, or nail clipping.
- He always has that 'huh?' look on his face.

To my children: My joy, my muse, my comedy. I love all that you are and all that you will become. Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! (Henry David Thoreau)

White Rules

2009-05-09T23:54:00.001-05:00

Not- White Rules! But- The rules of wearing white. I am far from fashionista, and I don't follow trends. I did hear once, a while back, that you are not to wear white before Memorial Day or after Labor Day. Joke's on me. That is only for you Midwesterners who live in a place where there is most likely snow on the ground during the entire said mentioned 9 month spam. Wearing white, no one would see you after the north wind blew you into a snow drift. In Texas, you must wear white, all the time. Why you ask? Well that would be to spare yourself the embarrassment of wearing a green button up shirt to your friend's son's birthday party (held outside) and having glaringly obvious and grotesque sweat marks displayed in places you didn't even know a torso could sweat.

Great party, by the way, thanks Courtney!

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

2009-05-08T23:41:00.004-05:00

This week I thought it would be fun if I provided the laugh through a photo and a couple of videos. Enjoy!

Excuse the spit-up to the left of his head.

Life is Good...So Good

2009-05-07T23:26:00.001-05:00

Boston can hardly wait until the day he can run around with the older children. It may be because he doesn't really have any baby friends, but I think he would want to be a part of the action regardless. At our usual library craft time today, the children were finger painting. A baby could do this, right? So long as he didn't eat it. He had been watching Cambry for a bit, and when it was his turn, he knew just what to do. We began rubbing his hands in the cold, gooey paint. He then looked up at me beaming. This was his proudest moment in all six months of life. He kept at it, looking up every so often to remind me how awesome it was.

After art time, we headed over to a friends house for water play and crafts. My little buddy was again thrilled to play with the big kids. They were splashing him in the face, and he didn't mind a bit. He was just glad to be a part.

Our day ended with an awesome 2.5 mile run (no walking, our furthest distance so far) and some time at the park. Life is good, so good!

Working Towards a Wordless Wednesday

2009-05-06T23:06:00.001-05:00

This was the sunset last night. The only thing I did to alter / edit this photo was to up the color saturation just a tad, and deepen the shadows a bit (just to pull the eye off the parking lot).

The Battle Within

2009-05-05T22:30:00.001-05:00

If I had to, I would say that I was raised not to air your dirty laundry. In fact don't air your laundry at all. Is that bad, no. However, I have just recently learned how liberating it is to be yourself / speak your mind. Like many people do, I too decided on a few things I would do differently after our big move. This is a fresh start for us, so why not. The one that has brought me the most joy and reward, is to just be 'me.' 'It is very easy to be me. I don't have to perform. I can just relax.' (Adopted from Joel Osteen. When I heard this, I thought 'Yes!' this is what I have been doing that is working so well for me.)

That being said, today has been a battle. I run Tuesday nights. Tonight I wanted to take Cambry to see a Ventriloquist at a local church, so I would need to run earlier. Before running, I needed to make a playlist on my mp3 player because I was tired of listening to everything and having the hear "The ants go marching two by two, Hooray!" in the middle of my run. (Cam and I share the mp3 player.) Well the d*&% (sounds like ma'am) thing wouldn't work. Then it froze up completely. After an hour with tec support, I threw in the towel. I can't run without music, so I guess I'm done running. Without running, I will never loose the weight I need to. I'll be fat forever. (Yes, that was the thought process. I even verbalized it to Joe. He is so patient with me. lol.) Here is a little cartoon that reminds me of me. Remember: I'm a work in progress.

www.nataliedee.com

After slapping some sense into myself (literally), I spent another three hours on the thing, and finally got it up and running. Despite the fact that it was nap time, we were going running. If I didn't do it now, I never would. That's where the battle comes in, I drag myself to run each time (3 times per week). I feel great afterwords, but list off millions of excuses for why I don't need to or shouldn't run. I thought running would help me loose weight. Yes, still just over 50 lbs to go. Yikes! We I read recently that unless you are running 30+ miles per week, running alone is not enough to shape your body and loose large amounts of weight. Clearly. I have been weighting for weeks in hopes to see even just a couple of pounds shed - not helping the motivation so much. I thought maybe is I posted my measurements and checked in (like other bloggers), I would be held accountable. Not so much into that, I am still a little sensitive about it all. Then I heard something great today. "Treat it like a full-time job." (Thanks Noelle) Love it! My only job right now is to take care of the kids; I can handle another job right? I put my heart into making things the very best I can, why would I deliver any less on this job? So there you have it, I'm hired.

P.S. Check out the temperature. The picture was taken just before we set out to run 2 miles, yes outside. What was I thinking?

Celebrate!

2009-05-04T23:34:00.000-05:00

Today is Joe's Birthday! Happy Birthday to the man who makes our dreams possible, the man who stands behind me even when I'm wrong, the man who is our soft place to land and our unwavering support... To the man who does it all so that we don't have to, and to the best father these two little birds could have.

Today not only marks Joe's birthday, but also the very first 'date' Joe and I had. It was more like the first time we hung out for any significant amount of time. At the end of that day, spent with he and Michael, I knew we would share more days to come. I didn't know how many more, but I knew there would be more. :) To celebrate, and reminisce, Joe and I secured a babysitter (Yeah!) and we out to try a new Sushi place in Katy, Nikko. Before dining at a new restaurant, we always spend at least an hour researching and reading reviews. The meal was delightful, inexpensive (for sushi) and well crafted. The roll selection could have had a bit more diversity or creativity, but we will definitely be back. (Killer happy hour specials too, check it out.)

(I hardly recognize my self, but check out my handsome man.)

Joe's heart was heavy today remembering how he usually spends his birthday, with his best friend Michael who passed away a couple months back. We know the day was hard. Thanks for sharing your day with us.

Amoung My Favs

2009-05-03T21:11:00.003-05:00

This weekend ended my friend Matt's week stay in Houston. I think he enjoyed himself, although Houston was not his favorite city. Saturday night Joe came home early from work - just for me :) and Matt and I hit the town. We had dinner at the original Carraba's downtown. Delicious! We shared mussels to start, and I had clam pasta for dinner. Seafood and Pasta...can it really get any better than that? Afterwards we headed over to the Toyota Center for the Fleetwood Mac concert. I was hoping to share some pics, maybe even a video. No such luck, they were not allowing photography or recording devices of any kind. I have never been to a live show where they didn't allow this, not even the Eagles. Stevie Nicks was beautiful and talented for a woman in her 30's...being that she is in her 60's she was phenomenal! A timeless goddess! Lindsay Buckingham can still rock it too, wow! We had a great time; I am thrilled that we were able to go. Thanks George! After the concert we stopped by a little pub to watch some live music, cover band style. This was my first time to a bar in Houston.

Just when you thought a day couldn't be better, along came Sunday. After spending the morning with the kids, I went to pick up Donni for massages at Massage Envy, courtesy of the Mommy Madness Promotion. I will let the video do the talking.

Joe had to go to work for a bit after I came home. Afterwords, he picked up Chinese food from Yao's. (Yes, the Rockets own Yao Ming has a place here in Houston that his parents run.) This is for sure my new favorite Chinese place. Try the curry shrimp.

Despite all the stress from financial burdens, our home in Omaha, and my lack of income, life has been really enjoyable lately. Joe works really had everyday for us (the kids and I) to be together at home, and experience life to the fullest. You're the best Papa Joe!

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

2009-05-01T23:39:00.001-05:00

In our lives, around every corner is a good laugh. Although these may not be our proudest moments, I am going to make a point to share with you each week. Why not spread the joy, right?

Here is a link to last weeks Funnies if you missed them.

I have been teaching Cambry about emotions, expressing emotion, and the faces that might accompany certain emotions. I want her to be comfortable with emotions and know that it is okay to feel any emotion. Last week, we were in the check out line after grocery shopping. When it was our turn, I had already loaded the belt and was holding Cambry on my hip. "Look Mommy, she's bored," Cambry said, referring to the cashier. LOL! Okay, I didn't really laugh out loud, but I wanted to.

I figured it was only a matter of time; it has finally happened. I was on the computer this week, when Cambry called out to me from the bathroom. "Mommy, the toilet is spitting up!." I ran to see, of course, by I already knew what had happened. You guessed it; she had officially put WAY too much toilet paper in the bowl and tried to flush.

I Don't Grow Older Everyday, Why do You?

2009-04-30T23:13:00.004-05:00

I do know the answer to the question, yet I still wonder why it goes by so fast. Boston has two teeth coming through (on the bottom); he is up on all fours, ready to crawl, and I think he made his first sign today. He had just finished dinner and was sitting next to me while I ate. He was going nuts every time I took a drink. So, I offered him some water out of the lid of my water bottle. He became quite upset with me. He then stuck out his arm and began to squeeze his hand - to say he wanted milk? I celebrated and praised at though it was a sign. I hope to see more soon for confirmation. If this is so, that would mean he is signing a whole month earlier than Cambry did. Yeah! Oh yes, and my favorite thing lately...he is over the moon about his daddy! (Video to come) (The frames below hold a picture of the children 6 months ago as well as a current picture.)

Y'all (Yes, I said it.) already know that Miss Cambry is over the moon about her Papa. :) Today I was helping her get dressed for the day. "Ohh, a dress, I'll be so pretty," she said.
Wednesday, after paying for lunch, I received about $2.45 in change. She asked me for the money. I gave her the coins. "Can I have the cash?" she asked. She continues to be a sponge for knowledge as well as the Princess of Literalness.
And then there was tonight, the reason why this whole post came to be. I was laying next to her bed, holding her hand before she went to bed. Ever since she was a baby, she holds hands by holding my pointer finger; I then wrap my hand around hers. Tonight, she shook out of this mold we have created, clasped my hand in the typical hand-holding position, and said, "Like this Mommy." There goes my baby.

Working Towards a Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-29T16:25:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday is an entry many bloggers make each week by just posting a picture. I tend to be wordy; I will have to work towards that.

Houston doesn't mess around when it comes to weather! This photo is actually from last weeks rain storm. This is the park right across the street from our house. The photo was taken from inside the Traverse as I drove by. I was blown away by the amount of water. Turns out, when you are at sea level, you create parks to hold water. Being home to playgrounds and ball games is their second function.

This week, on Monday night, was the the first night ever (in my adult life) that I was woke up by a storm. Our area of the city received 4 inches of rain in an hour, and it kept on coming, accompanied by hail and severe thunderstorms. Roads and homes alike were flooded. Our home was fine. We were unable to leave for most of the day though. All the roads leading to the freeway were closed. Joe traveled 8+ miles out of his way to get to work Tuesday morning. The trip took him about an hour and a half.

So that was far from 'wordless.' Like I said, this will be a work in progress. teehee.

In other random ramblings...

We make a lot of dust. What is the deal with that?

I ♥ Faces - Adult Entry, Wk. 16 - Reflection

2009-04-28T15:31:00.008-05:00

Welcome to my second week entering the I ♥ Faces weekly photo contest. Last week I mentioned the contest is only for amateurs. I stand corrected. Occasionally they do offer another category for amateurs, but in general the contests are open to all skill level. The theme this week, Week 16, is reflection. Perfect, I just entered my best reflection picture in the Self Portrait Category last week. :) That's the way it usually goes, right? So this week I was pondering how I would capture a reflection photo. Cambry was not cooperating, and Joe prefers not to have his photo taken. To spare phoning a friend, I decided the picture should be of me, taken by me of course. I am a die hard foodie and have actually been doing quite a bit in the kitchen lately. ('Quite a bit' by my standards is a step above opening the box and emptying it into a pan. Progress is progress.) What would me more appropriate than a photo of myself in my silverware?

I ♥ Faces Wk. 16 Reflection - Adult Entry

For more great reflection photos, or to join the fun yourself, make sure to stop by I ♥ Faces. Hope you enjoyed my photo. Thanks for stopping by!

Director, Producer, Videographer, & Lead Actress

2009-04-26T22:50:00.003-05:00

Although I never thought I would say this, I am having a lot of fun making videos for the Mommy Madness promotion. It proves to be quite challenging to hold the camera yourself (or prop it up, turn it on, and run in front of it) A few of my family members have mentioned that they are not able to see the videos on the Mommy Madness site, so I am posting them here for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy!

Trini Traverse

2009-04-25T22:34:00.001-05:00

I am already attached to the Traverse. I am completely bummed that we will have to return it at the end of eight weeks. There is a purchase option, but we are in no place to buy a new vehicle. This Traverse is my ultimate Mommy Mobile! It has sooo many features that I don't currently have. Check out my blog entry on the Mommy Madness site She's a Keeper. You will learn all my favorite features, what I could live without, and why I named her Trini.

**If you are in Texas, remember that every time you vote, you are entered to win a weekend getaway! (and spa services) You can vote as often as you like. Thanks in advance for your support! Click Here to Vote

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

2009-04-24T22:32:00.002-05:00

In our lives, around every corner is a good laugh. Although these may not be our proudest moments, I am going to make a point to share with you each week. Why not spread the joy, right?

Yesterday at Boston's 6 month check, Cambry decided that the doctor would need to look at the pea size bruise she had on her leg from falling the day before. She asked me permission to ask the doctor. After getting the doc's attention, she asked, "Can you please look at my boo-boo? I could stop whining to Mommy about it if you looked at it."

I have had this pair of unworn socks sitting on the ledge in our bedroom for sometime. When I went to go pick up my new running shoes, I attempted to return them. I explained to the woman that the package contained two left socks, rather than a right and a left. I wanted to know if I could exchange them, or by a package that had two right socks. She went to get the manager. It was then politely revealed to me that the "L" on the socks meant they were large, not left.

This week I was fixing Cambry's hair in the bathroom. She is a gassy child, but knows it is nothing to be ashamed of. During the entire time I was fixing her hair, she was audibly passing gas. I was nearly finished with the style when she looked up at me and said, "I can't even stand in here; you smell so much!" -LMBO-

Purple Rain

2009-04-23T15:02:00.000-05:00

During the four weeks I have been running, I have gone through three pairs of shoes. The Asics Gel Nimbus 10, the perfect shoe for me, split open at the seam after the first run. (exchanged no problem) The Adidas ____, well it was everything awful about a shoe - for me. (exchanged no problem) I then spent a week running in the shoes I use to mow the lawn as I awaited the arrival of the new Asics Gel Nimbus 11. Imagine my surprise / thrill when I went to pick up my new shoes and the woman brought out this gorgeous purple shoe. Thanks for splitting open Nimbus 10!

"Dark Cherry," "Ms. Can't Be Wrong," and "Grape Lightning" Life is good!

Don't Blink

2009-04-23T14:21:00.003-05:00

"My sister calls me Boston Chatterbox and my Mom calls me Little Bear."

I can hardly believe Boston is already 6 months old. He is growing soooo quickly. At his 6 month well check today, he was 19lbs 12 1/2 oz and 27" long. (Sorry to those of you who I told 28".) Cambry was also 27" at 6mo, but weighed just 17lbs 2 oz.

Just like we did with Cam, we have begun signing with Boston. Although he has not yet produced a sign, he does look for them, and will put his hands on mine when I sign to him. He is completely crazy about his big sister; their special bond is growing everyday. Lately she tells him about all the things she will teach him when he gets bigger - including how to drive. (Yes, she is already asking when she can learn.) Boston loves it when Cambry helps to take care of him too. She brings a humor that I couldn't to every situation. "Mommy, I need a towel! He's dripping," she will say as he drools all over his toys. The three of us read stories together often. Boston is fascinated by books and stories; he bangs on the pages in excitement. Oh, and remember the monotone 'singing' Cambry does? Well Boston has picked up on too. Bedtime is often the noisiest time of the day around here. lol.

His bottom two teeth have erupted now. Thank goodness! They have been bothering him for some time. He has been doing pretty well with sitting on his own - starting just this week. But he still loves to stand and walk assisted. He is talker, just like his big sister. He favorite sounds are ba-ba-ba and ma-ma-ma.

Just to humor you, I will try to get a video of him 'crawling.' He has the legs down to a science; the arms, well they are just in the way. He pushes his head into the floor, arms flopping at the side, and crawls forward with his knees. Awesome!

Boston Boy loves to be loved. He soaks up attention from anyone who will give it. He has a laugh that could light up the world. Lately he enjoys singing to the radio with Cambry and Mommy. :P We love you silly boy!

The Gulf

2009-04-22T00:53:00.000-05:00

On Monday Papa Joe had the day off, so we took a little road trip down to Galveston Island. It has been 7 months since hurricane Ike destroyed much of the city. We were amazed by the buildings that had been rebuilt as much as we were amazed by the damage to structures that had not yet been repaired. Once we got down to the water, I kept my disappointment to myself. I have only been to the ocean a handful of times in my life. The site of the Gulf of Mexico, just off of Galveston Island was not the ocean I know or have come to love. I walked to the water's edge, closed my eyes, and just listened. After hearing the waves crashing for a few moments, I decided it was going to be a great day. We built sand castles together as a family, walked along the beach, waded in the water, and soaked up the sun. Awww!

As promised, here are a couple of photos. My editing software is only functioning at a basic level right now (many updates and downloads to go), so I have just included a couple for now.

I'm a Work in Progress - New Edit Please Read

2009-04-21T12:17:00.009-05:00

My broken links have now been fixed. You should be able to click and link to the radio station sites, as well as the Mommy Madness Site, and the other Mommy Bloggers Sites. Sorry for the delay.

Addition to original post:
I stand corrected. I apologize to all of my out of town friends and family who have tried to vote for me as their favorite Mommy Madness Blogger. I didn't realize the voting was only open to TX residents. As a person living out of state, you can vote one time. Once you reach the Mommy Madness site, scroll down a bit and you will see the "Vote for the Madness" box on the right, click. You will seen the voting screen where TX residents can fill in their name, etc. Scroll down a bit. You will then see a tan poll box. You can select my name and click vote. It's that easy.

A special thanks to everyone for their support!

I ♥ Faces - Kids Entry

2009-04-21T10:47:00.014-05:00

I ♥ Faces has a weekly photography contest (for amateurs); It is something new I am trying this week. So here is my entry for the I ♥ Faces Week 15, Self Portrait Kids Contest. Wish us luck!

This is a picture of Cam and I taken in the reflection of the high gloss paint on the new Chevy Traverse! (The photo is a little red in color because of the dark cherry paint color on the car.)

Go On, Get Your Vote On!

2009-04-21T01:08:00.007-05:00

It's here, it's finally here! Mommy Madness Houston kicked off today at 12:01AM. Today was the perfect day for it. Life was madness around here. (To people like me, madness is a great thing. It gives you that rush. That 'activating all your senses' kind of rush.) The computer crashed - due to a virus - early, early Sunday morning. Thankfully, I thought a few hours before that would be super time to back up my photos and documents. So other than all my software, settings, and web contact information for everyone I know, I have all I need. :) Please send me an email, if you would, so I can update my outlook.

After spending most of the day yesterday on the phone with Dell on-call, I was able to get my internet and outlook back up. Hooray! Life line restored! Now for some blog therapy. Oh, and can someone please look to the left of my blog address in the URL area and tell me if my favicon (that apple slice) is still there? I switched to Firefox and I can't see it. Thanks for helping to restore the peace.

Now for the good stuff...
Have I told you lately that I love the Chevy Traverse? Really, the more I drive it the more I love it. Let me rephrase that, the more I look at it, the more I love it! (driving helps too) I find my self stopping by the bedroom window (the window that overlooks the drive) just to check on (read, admire) my purple beauty. Today we took at trip down to Galveston Island, in the Traverse of course. (Yes, as soon as I get the software back, I will post pictures.) Joe drove; I did nothing in the comfort of the ultra spacious passenger seat. As a woman who normally will take two vehicles, even on a 1000 mile trip, to avoid having to ride in the passenger seat, the Traverse may have me demanding a chauffeur more often. We had the double BOB, umbrella stroller, my 15 'must have' bags (3 really), the cooler and a huge stash of sand toys in the back, and I still had a perfect platform to change Boston's diaper before hitting the beach. Hey, you do what you gotta do.

The Mommy Madness Site is up! Stop by as often as you like to vote for your favorite Mommy, and be entered to win. After you vote, if you enter your current car year, make, and model, you get another vote! (Men and women and vote and be entered to win, and you can win from anywhere in the country.) I would really appreciate it if you would pass the word on. Thanks for your support!!

A Shout Out to Sarah Pepper

2009-04-18T00:52:00.001-05:00

I have never really been a fan of morning shows. I just may change my mind on that one. There is something about listening when you actually know who is on the other side. Thursday afternoon, at the Mommy Madness kick 0ff event, I had the pleasure of meeting Sarah Pepper, Morning Show co-host on Hot Hits 95.7. She too was excited about the purple Traverse. Although she said I was way too excited, I think she knew that wasn't really possible. She had a great time with us that afternoon.

I just wanted to send a shout out to Sarah, and say "Thanks for supporting all of us!" Make sure you listen to Sarah 6-10AM weekdays. She is hilarious and full of life. She will be plugging our promotion on her show too.

Hey Sarah! Maybe we can take the Traverse up to see Dave Matthews in May?

Miss Daisy is Driving

2009-04-17T23:13:00.001-05:00

As with many children, the driver's seat (anywhere in the front really) is a mecca for Cambry. Today, before our playdate, I let have her moment in the new Traverse. To sweeten the pot, I gave her the grail - 5 minutes of button pushing freedom. She immediately pressed the horn. It was cute, even though she was given free reign, she still hesitated and asked permission before testing each button and lever. Her last request was to put the key in the ignition. Not until you're 16 lady. Sorry.

**A new update regarding voting: We have now been informed that you will be able to vote more than once during the Mommy Madness promotional period. I think it will be the opportunity to vote daily. (Voting begins Monday, April 20th) For each time you vote, you will be entered to win a Girls Weekend Giveaway complete with spa services!

Bring the Rain

2009-04-17T22:55:00.002-05:00

It has just been one of those days. And really, after coming off of yesterday's high, of course today would be Meh. I have had this Bubble Blast Playdate all planned out for the longest time. Today was our third attempt at it; past attempts were called on account of rain. Today, imagine that, looks like rain again. Most Mommies here stay in if it rains or even looks like rain - understandable. I, on the other hand, take the kids out almost daily regardless of weather for my sanity - well theirs too. So rather than be all disappointed about Mother Nature raining on our parade, I decided to invite people over to play inside. Thankfully, two of my favorite Mamas and their kids came. We were also joined by a new Mom - super nice lady - who I hope to get to know better. We all had a great time!

In other news, I have changed the settings on the blog to allow anyone (yes, you my family) to comment here. I am not sure what that means for security, but we will try it for a bit. Go ahead, share your thoughts; I'd love to hear from you.

Mommy Madness - Tell Me More

2009-04-16T23:17:00.007-05:00

Today was a HUGE day for me. I can not even put into words the amount of excitement that I felt today meeting with the contributors and creators of such a genius promotion - "Houston Mommy Madness." I could not contain the thrill behind it all, well it wasn't as though I tried either. If you're happy and you know it - show the world.

Being still quite unfamiliar with the Houston area, especially downtown, I set to leave the house more than one hour before the event began. Put the address into the GPS - fail. :) I ended up calling the organizers of the event, twice, for directions, and was the last to arrive. I chose my seat and was handed a packet and some paperwork along with a set of car keys. I began writing my name and glanced up for just a moment to look at the keys. My eye caught "Purp_" jotted on the tag. Without out thinking, I held up my keys and said, pointing to the tag, "Does this mean my car is purple!?!?!" (This most likely came out in a volume not at all appropriate for this business type meeting, but again, I couldn't contain it.) A PURPLE CAR! It really doesn't get any better than that.

Okay, let me digress for a minute to tell you how this all happened for me. Like any country girl, I am thrilled to be in Texas and immediately find the best country radio station and programmed it into my car. (Music of any kind is a necessity for me, but country will always have a special place in my heart.) One day while listening to the KILT I heard a ad for the Mommy Madness promotion. I immediately went online and submitted an application. A couple of weeks later, I went back to the site to see a notice that stated we should check back on April 20th to see the winners. I was a bit bummed to learn I wasn't selected. None the less, I went on with my day. Joe around noon to let me know that someone from CBS radio and Chevrolet had called the restaurant looking for me. Apparently, a woman with CBS Radio (Jeanie) was googling one day to see what sites were talking about or producing traffic about the event. Remember that post I made a while back about the Chevy Traverse and Mommy Madness?? Well, when she googled, my blog came up, as the first entry no less. The problem was, my application was not in their records (lost on the web somewhere?) so she had no way to contact me. Reading my blog, she read of the Flemings Town and Country opening and decided to call the restaurant and look for me. I called her and she offered me a place on the Mom Squad. AMAZING! Thanks Jeanie!!

So here we are, back around the board room table at CBS radio, joined by the creators of Mommy Madness, executives from GM, Chevrolet, CBS Radio and three totally rockin' Radio Personalities from their stations. Mix 96.5 - New Hot 95.7 - 650 AM - Sports Radio 610AM - KILT 100.3

Mommy Madness is an opportunity for five Mommy Bloggers to drive a brand new Chevy Traverse for 8 wks. In addition, we will be sent on "Mommy Missions" that tie into the madness of our lives and offer some fun opportunities for our families. We will make blog, picture, and video posts on our own blogs as well as the Mommy Madness Site several times through out each week. The site launches Monday, April 20th. Be sure to check it out and follow along. There will be incentives for you too. Check the site for how you can easily earn an hour massage at Massage Envy, and make sure you vote for your favorite Mommy to be entered to win a Girls Weekend Getaway (complete with spa services). *You can only vote one time. You will earn an extra vote for referring a friend.

The Mommy Madness promotion is currently running in three cities around the nation. Houston, Kansas City, and Dallas. The promotion will run from April 20th - June 14th.

Who is on the Houston Squad you say? We will make our debut on the Mommy Madness site on Monday the 20th. Until then, here are the Magnificent Mamas and their blogs.

1. Angie (that's me) - A Slice of Life
2. Valerie - Moms Living Fit
3. Christine - Christine Meeker Studios
4. Larami - The Alpha Team
5. Stephanie - Real.Life.Mom

Here we are thrilled to be just moments away from viewing our new cars.
(click to view larger)

Trying to contain ourselves as we listen to the walk through info.

And there is my dark cherry beauty parked in the drive at home.

A special thanks to CBS Radio and the Houston area Chevrolet Dealers for this truly unique opportunity!

As We Grow...

2009-04-16T08:49:00.002-05:00

This year has brought many changes for my Spunky Lady. As expected, she has had some issues adjusting. The most obvious changes being our move to TX, a new brother, and no more childcare friends at home, and Papa Joe being gone more than normal. The extra drama she ads to the day is certainly understandable. Although, with some special efforts and plans on our part, everything is smoothing out nicely. I can hardly believe how fast she is growing. She loves to have conversations that include the details of how things work or happen. Rather than the typical 2yo. 'Why?' she always asks, "What does that mean?" She knows that when we don't know the answer to something, we can go online and find the answer. Yesterday we were writing our grocery list and I asked her what else was supposed to be on the list. "I don't know," she said. "Look it up online." :) She is building social skills, manners, and a genuine care and concern for others - so sweet. Making decisions is something she still struggles with. She will often reply, "I do, but I don't," when asked if she wants to do things. She is becoming quite athletic and still loves music and art. Digging in the dirt is a new found love; we also use this time to learn to write letters with a stick. We are still very active in playgroups, and she is making lots of new friends. My spunky lady is more beautiful to me every day. She helps me to see life in that pure, innocent, unbiased way only a child experiences life. I love when we revisit the events from the day, talking about our favorite things. She always ends with, "You're the best Mommy in the whole world." I know I am the only Mommy she knows, but it is no less meaningful to me. Thanks for sharing your days with me Cam! Love you!

-This is the Sass I Get

- Loves to teach her brother about all the great things in life. #18 - Wagon Rides

**I will post Boston's update after his 6 mo check next week.

P.S. It's almost 9AM, and my kids are still sleeping! Wow!

Mommy's Understudy

2009-04-15T13:55:00.013-05:00

Aunt Deb, This is For You!

2009-04-15T11:40:00.004-05:00

Chevy Traverse Mommy Madness - We're on the Squad!

2009-04-14T10:25:00.012-05:00

I have been anxiously awaiting the day when I can announce to you that we have been chosen to be a member of the Houston Chevy Traverse Mommy Madness, Mom Squad. TODAY IS THE DAY!! Five Houston Mommy Bloggers have been chosen to drive a new Chevy Traverse for 8 weeks and share their experiences through pictures, video, and blog posts online. Make sure to check back often to share the adventure with us. There will also be opportunities for you to win an hour massage and even a Girls Weekend Getaway! Mommy Madness begins next Monday, April 20th. Follow along here as well as the Houston Mommy Madness site. I will have many more details for you after we pick up the vehicles. Stay tuned.

Spice up the Hunt

2009-04-13T00:29:00.006-05:00

Since the restaurant was open for both lunch and dinner today, Papa Joe went in early this morning and was able to come home around 5PM. This meant that we could have our family Easter Egg Hunt tonight rather than tomorrow. Finding eggs is always fun, but I wanted to put a spin on things, to make it a little more than just running around the yard picking up eggs. This year, and probably many more years to come, our hunt was a photo scavenger hunt. I took 12 photos from around the house and made a 4 x 6 image for every two photos. (See below)

After picking them up at the one hour, I cut them is half and hid them in sequence around the house, leaving one out to start the hunt. Hidden next to each new photo was a filled egg. The fridge photo was the first one. Cam had to take moment to process the directions, and then she was off - dashing down the stairs squealing. From the fridge, to the side table, to the pantry, then upstairs and around some more...so much excitement!!

The last hiding place contained an egg (of course) and a picture of the front of our house. As she ran downstairs to head outside, Papa Joe asked her what she thought would be out there. Thrilled, she said, "An egg and another picture." Instead she found a brand new scooter waiting for her. Off she went, down the driveway. What a great day!

Red Dye 40

2009-04-12T22:39:00.004-05:00

Yes, it finally happened. With a two year old, and a home that is almost entirely carpet, the odds are against us. Although the lighting is different, and the carpet is still wet in the photo on the right, this is a accurate representation of the near miracle. I found a great tip online from chris_g, carpet cleaner.

Red Dye Removal (Kool-aid, gatorade, etc.)
-Make a solution of half ammonia, half water
-Preheat an iron
-Saturate the stain with the solution
-Soak a white rag with water until it is dripping wet
-Place the rag over the stain
-Place the iron over the rag (It will sizzle.)
-Hold the iron in position for 20-40 seconds. Make sure not to burn the carpet.
-Reposition to a clean place on the rag and repeat the ironing step if necessary
*This will also work on a stain that had dried in or been there for a long period of time.

The Dream in Your Heart

2009-04-12T10:41:00.001-05:00

Today, more than any other day, we are reminded that anything is possible, to never let go of our dreams - our hearts desires. 'Be a victor, not a victim. Fan your flame. Your dreams will come to pass.' (Joel Osteen)

For your viewing pleasure: Got Talent? You tube has disabled the embedding on these videos so you will have to follow the link to watch. Enjoy!

Our Special Visitor

2009-04-11T23:03:00.002-05:00

After running on Thursday night, my second run without the stroller, the kids and I headed to the airport to pick up my Mom. She was able to reroute her business trip return flight to join us for the weekend. The four of us got up early Friday morning to join my running group for another run. My Mom, opting to walk, graciously pushed the kids in the stroller. This was my first run off a track; it was wonderful. My running partner thought we were running about 11 minute pace. This is HUGE for me, especially considering the humidity and that it is only my second week or running. :) I am glad to have the next three days off from running, my legs need a rest. Running stadium stairs before Thursday night's run really put me over the edge. Later that day my wonderful Mom splurged on a BOB stroller for the kids and I. (This is my gift for many holidays to come, including my b-day.) Running with the Sit n' Stand has been torture, really. We took it out for its first spin Saturday morning. Perfect!

Want to WIN A BOB? Submit a video of your dancing baby and you could win.

We made our second trip to Build a Bear Friday; Cambry made a horse. She gets so excited about the whole process. She was an expert this time and made sure the lady knew what to do next. Saturday we had an early dinner at Joe's new restaurant and then headed to Lakewood Church to see Joel Osteen. I wasn't sure what to expect, but had a surprisingly moving experience.

Our Princess and Her Easter Hair

Needed a Papa Fix

2009-04-08T18:48:00.003-05:00

Cam still has such a hard time when Papa Joe is at work. She gets very emotional about it almost daily. So today, as a surprise, we stopped by Papa's work to visit. She could hardly contain her excitement. Here they are, goofy as ever. Thanks for helping us get through the day Papa!

Because...

2009-04-07T23:45:00.001-05:00

Because I think it's cool, and because I am getting better and better at using my little camera...I thought I would share.

Hippity Hoppity Hunting

2009-04-06T18:38:00.001-05:00

(An appropriate face for the occasion :P) We went to our friend's house today for an Easter Egg Hunt. What a blast! 15 moms and twice that many kids running loose in search of treat filled eggs. The trill was enough to make me think we should have such a hunt many times a year. I have something fun up my sleeve for our own hunt at home on Easter Sunday. (more later on that)

Bluebonnet Tour, 2009

2009-04-05T12:33:00.001-05:00

The kids and I are exhausted after an eight hour bluebonnet tour about 50 miles west / northwest of Houston. We had a wonderful time out in the fields and the sun. It hit 88 degrees out where we were. We were traveling with a group of 18-20 photographers, some amateur, some professional, a couple (myself) wannabe. Every stop was more beautiful than the next. The spring wildflowers attract people by the thousands. We were fortunate to be guided by a native Texan who knew just the right back roads to take so that we could experience the beauty of the painted, rolling hills on our own. Here are some shots from the day. (Sorry, no more details today. We are off to rest.)

A Dose of Daily Irony

2009-04-02T22:18:00.001-05:00

Today was day two of our mission to register the vehicle and obtain a TX driver's license. (#2 on the cons of moving list) It can't be that bad right? Maybe, if you are waiting in line by yourself and you brought your ipod along. :P I, on the other hand, had the children in tow. Let's just say it was an adventure. Did you know that you need to make four stops to accomplish this mission, meandering through the queue area maze in all but one place? What is the technical name for that maze they put up anyways?

Warning: Standing in line can cause extreme boredom, annoyance and even rage. (CNN) My daughter made it through each of those stages several times during our adventure. I am not sure why I expected anything less. hehe.

Here she is mission accomplished! I let her have the plates because when we finally did make it to the window at our last stop, and the lady handed over those metal rectangles, Cambry said, "Ughhh. This is exactly what I have been looking for. Thank you." Right then and there I forgot all the trouble we had earlier in the day.

The other thing that totally made me laugh today happened in the parking lot of DPS - the driver's license division. Just as we were backing out of our parking space, Joe Schmo comes flying into the parking lot in his rundown astro van. By this time I have hit my breaks and am watching the in rear view as he has one hand on the wheel and is bent over looking for... I lay on the horn just in time to see him look up and hear his tires screech to a stop less than an inch behind my car (just guessing). I pulled forward to let Schmo by. And where did he pull his car into? The 'Park Here for Driving Test' lane. My guess is the testers already saw his display through the bay window out front and will just go ahead and mark him as fail right now. Thanks for that. lol.

Here are a couple more shot from the day. 1) Boston waiting in line all morning. I tell you, not much rattles this guy. 2) Boston during what should be nap time. 3) Cambry in the tea cup on the carousel ride at the mall. She was spinning so fast I was sick just watching.

Thanks for checking in with us. Until later - A

Rockin' the Point and Shoot

2009-04-01T11:49:00.001-05:00

After our playdate, we stopped by another park to take some photos. I must say, I feel like I am getting better at my new skill everyday. (Boston was sleeping, so these shots are just of my lady.)

On the bottom two are the 'before' and 'after' post processing on a shot I happened to capture the other day. We were busy trying to get out of the house to go play with our friends, so I asked Cambry to help me. She is wonderful when it comes to helping out with Boston. She has been practicing feeding him. I was putting on my face around the corner but could still catch this precious moment. She was stroking his head, telling him how they are friends, and what they would be doing together for the day.

Duck Diner

2009-04-01T10:39:00.000-05:00

After three attempts, during three separate weeks, we finally hosted our first Mom's Group Meetup. Yeah! We went to MJP park, another of our favs, to feed the ducks. Duck Diner it was called. Rather than post more of the same pictures (kiddos looking cute while 60 enormous ducks engorge loaf after loaf of bread), I have added a couple of cute shots from the playground later that morning. Later in April will be our second attempt at Bubble Blast, our Mom's Group Bubble Party. Let's hope the weather holds out this time.

Wind in Wonderland

2009-03-30T00:26:00.002-05:00

Papa Joe was off today. What an exhausting month it has been for him. The restaurant opening was incredibly smooth, all the repairs were made on time, and business is good. As the weeks go by, he should be able to cut back a little on hours and slide into a more regular schedule.

The wind was up enough today that we decided to take a trip to our favorite park and fly the kite. The $3 plastic triangle with streamers attached, that we purchased at the Dollar Store. I mention that only because I honestly didn't think it would last more than one flight. We had quite a bit of fun with it for most of the morning.

Boston Boy just loves to be outside, people watching. The wind was a bonus, the breeze makes him giggle. Life makes him giggle. (I think I should take a lesson.) :)

A Slice of Life

Desktop Plaque

Photo Card

Artful Greeting Cards

Summer Memories

Body Painting Bash

Best Spongebob Party Ever!

Catching Up

A Tidbit from the Performance

Happy Father's Day Grandpa!

Because I Won't Be Able to Much Longer...

Time Flies When You're Having Fun

Look Out World

Holiday Happenings

358 Days

I Missed This Week

Gram Takes on the Heat

For Sale in Omaha...Still

Omaha and Family in June

7 Decades Ago

What Have We Been Up To?

I ♥ Faces - "At the Beach"

Boston is 9 months! (Again, 2 weeks ago)

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

Boston is 8mos (two weeks ago)

Remembering a Legend

Wordful, I've Been Warned, Wednesday

I ♥ Faces - "Let's Hear it For the Boys!"

For Their Dad

For My Dad

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

Because My Family ♥s Videos

Wordless WednesdaySchlitterbahn, Galveston Island

Giveaways to Get in On

I ♥ Faces - "Sepia Toned"

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

Only One Week Left

The Words That Drive Me

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

Wordless Wednesday

A Commitment...AndGiveaways to Get in On

Katy Sunrise 5K

The Mother-load is OverloadingFriday Frump...In Need of a Funny

Because My Family ♥s Videos

As Promised, the Runner Up

Wordful, That Leaves Me Speachless, Wednesday

I ♥ Faces - Wk. 20 "Silhouettes"

Mommy Madness Houston Soundbites

Giveaways to Get in On

I'm Your Biggest Fan!

Friday Funnies - Go Ahead, Smile Out Loud

Because My Family Likes Videos

Working Towards a Wordless Wednesday

I ♥ Faces - Wk. 19 "Blurb Photo Book"Amateur Entry

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White Rules

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Life is Good...So Good

Working Towards a Wordless Wednesday

The Battle Within

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Working Towards a Wordless Wednesday

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Purple Rain

Don't Blink

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I ♥ Faces - Kids Entry