aaa plus two

Practice Makes Perfect

2012-01-28T12:13:00.000-08:00

He was sitting up on the couch.
Then I turned around.
For a minute.
Good thing there was a pillow there.

Practice makes perfect, Asher Man.

10 Things Thursday

2012-01-26T17:18:00.000-08:00

My weekend to do list

1. Watch the Ides of March without the sweet husband because Mr. Precious himself decided to watch it alone without telling me. Rude. Works better for me anyway, now I can swoon over Ryan Gosling and not have to hide it.

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2. Take the family to breakfast at one of our favorite local spots in the morning on our day off. We have gift certificates that I got for Christmas. Freeeee breakfast! I'm going to have the ham, egg & cheese sammie. It isn't even on the menu anymore, but they make it for me anyway. And yes, I do call it that when I order it, to the embarrassment of those I'm with.

3. Take the kids bowling. We have gift cards from an auction basket we bought. Sort of Freeeee bowling! We took Abby on her birthday and she loved it. I'm actually a pretty good bowler thanks to my sister and her husband who took me with them all the time when I was a bratty teenager. Adam barely beat me last time. I won't let that happen again.

4. Family nap. After the breakfast and the bowling I'm hoping that nap time for all of us falls at the same time and the house will be quiet and restful for a while.

5. Dinner with the in-laws. My mother in law is leaving for California to be with her mother who is battling cancer. Please say a prayer for Grandma with us. We are all going to spend some time together before she goes. Good times. It's also like a break for me since they all get to love on the kids my arms get a break Ahhh.

6. Cleaning bedrooms. I feel like the front of my house, you know the living area, is pretty clean. I clean it daily (or at least try to). However, if you venture down the hall to the bedrooms you will find that messes create themselves while I sleep. I'm tackling them on Saturday. And I'm setting traps for the mess making monsters. Beware!

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7. Getting rid of a dozen things. There is a local facebook shop and swap page in our town. I have sold numerous things in the last week. Some pretty big items so I have a little stash going on right now. I want a new rug for the dining room, new lights and new kitchen windows. I guess I better keep selling.

8. Hockey! Adam, Aidan and I are joining Ryan, Emily and Chris for a hockey game. Aid hasn't been to one since he was pretty young so it should be super fun to watch it with him. He is pretty excited that he gets to join the grown ups and enjoy the night. I hope it is a good fighting game. I like those.

9. Church. We missed a few weeks due to work and illness. Last Sunday it seemed that God was talking directly to us. Perhaps the part when the speaker said. . ."You don't deserve a better job. You don't deserve a bigger house. You don't deserve a better wife. Stop Complaining." Well, maybe not the better wife part. Oh gosh, I hope Adam doesn't want a better wife.

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10. Bring my piano home. Just typing that makes me smile. That is part of the reason I have been "cleaning house" and selling stuff is to make room for it. I have the perfect spot for it and I already know what I want to set on top. Of course, I do have grand plans for painting it pink this summer. Yep, painting it pink. Don't tell my dad. This isn't the piano that gave me the idea, but it is a beauty. Isn't it?

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The Littlest Twihard

2012-01-25T16:28:00.000-08:00

Do you see that face?
She must be reading the Jacob part.
Obviously.

Two for Tuesday

2012-01-24T14:30:00.000-08:00

Hat hair at it's best.
Or worst.

Hope your face doesn't freeze that way.
Or your hair.

Eleven x 2

2012-01-23T17:12:00.000-08:00

This could also be titled "The Longest Post. Ever."
I got tagged twice in the same day to do this little blog world goodie.
I'll play along, friends.
I'll even play for both of you.
Geez...I'm good.

First Things First, The Rules:
1. You must post the rules.
2. Post eleven fun facts about yourself on the blog post.
3. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post, and then create eleven new questions to ask the people you've tagged.
4. Tag eleven people and link them on your post.
5. Let them know you've tagged them!

Eleven things about meeeeee:

1. I auditioned for a Star Searchish show in high school. I made it. I was supposed to go to Nashville to record the episode and compete against other talent. I chose not to go. The reason I didn't go? Ridiculous. I had a boyfriend and it was spring break and I wanted to spend the time with him. Gross. If I could do things differently, boy would I.

2. I have no intentions of leaving the States. I know that may seem unadventurous. However, I have seen too many movies where pretty young girls are locked up for nothing. Plus, there is so much to see in America I need to do that first before I go anywhere else.
My girls make fun of me, but they won't be laughing when they call me from some foreign country and need help getting home. (I have been to Mexico (twice), but I don't think that counts.)

3. I have a really hard time with apostrophes when it deals with possession. If at all possible I will word the sentence differently so I don't have to use them at all. I guess I could just learn how to use them.

4. Family names are important to me. I was named after my Grandma. All of my children's middle names are from family members. Aidan has his dad's middle name, Abby has my Grandma's middle name and Asher is named after Adam's dad. And if I have anything to say about it my kids will do the same thing.

5. I've been singing this song to Aidan long before I knew him. When I was pregnant with him I would sing it and change it to "Godspeed little girl" because I was just sure he was a girl. Ha. Little did I know. I sing it to him when I tuck him in and when he is sad. I sing it to Asher too. Abby asked me the other night if I would sing her the "little girl song". I change the words for her. It is sweet and simple and lovely.

6. I have an enormous fear of dying. When I went to the hospital to have Asher I was so sure that I would not be coming home that I wrote letters to Adam and all my bebes just in case. In fact, when I was getting prepped for surgery I overheard the nurses talking and there was some confusion on my chart. I stopped everything in the room and told them to explain to me what was going on because I didn't want to get some other ladies medicine and die while I was there. Turns out it was some wrongly placed code stickers and I survived just fine.

7. It's funny how you can have an opinion on something, a really strong opinion and then when you get in the middle of that situation you realize your opinion can change. Teaches you not to judge so harshly or so quickly. Put yourself in that situation first. You really don't know what you would do. . .unless you have been there.

8. I watched an interview that Oprah did with Joel Osteen the other day. She asked him if he thought that Jesus was the only way to get to Heaven. His answer was this, "I believe Jesus is the one way to God but there are many ways to Jesus." I thought it was an incredible answer. God is the one and only God. Who are we to say where and when you will find Jesus. People find him every day. He is everywhere. Thank goodness!

9. There is a little girl in the after school care where I work that will say a sentence and then repeat herself. For example: "This is a good book." Pause. "I'm like, this is a good book." After everything she says. "Can I watch a movie?" Pause. "I'm like, Can I watch a movie?"
Ohmygosh, it drives me crazy. I'm like, ohmygosh it drives me crazy.

10. Years ago I was playing a game with friends. My best girlfriend and I were on a team. I began to draw a picture of what would have been the Alamo fortress. Granted, it was only a little part of it, but it was enough for her to shout out "Alamo". Point for us. All of the other girls thought we were cheating. I promise, we were not. One of the girls won't play games with us to this day. It still makes me giggle.

11. When I dish out ice cream, I get one extra bite and eat it from the container. I have always done this. Recently, while we were all at my parent's house I notice my mom did the same thing. Aha! That is where I get it. When I pointed it out to her and told her I did it too, my sister confessed she did the same thing. Like mother like daughters.

Questions from Jen:
1. What was your favorite subject in school?
English. I love to read and I love to write. Plus I had both of the Partington's for teachers and they are pretty much amazing. They would probably be saddened by my poor grammar/punctuation etc.

2. Pepsi or Coke? Chocolate or vanilla? Soup or salad?
Coke, for sure. Don't get me wrong, I will drink Pepsi if that is all there is. Vanilla, for sure. Don't get me wrong, I will eat chocolate if that is all there is. Salad, for sure. Don't get me wrong, I will eat soup if that is all there is. Hahhaahahhhha.

3. If one holiday was going to disappear forever, which would you vote to lose?
Halloweeeeeeeeeeen. Bye bye. Good riddance.
Here is a text series from me and a girlfriend this year a few days before this silly holiday.
Shasta: I can't find my witch hat.
Me: Uh oh. I have some cowboy stuff if you want.
Shasta: I have other stuff, but I just look silly.
Me: Um, we are adults playing dress up...it is the epitome of SILLY.

4. Who was your favorite teacher and what subject and grade did they teach?
Mrs. Swaim for Kindergarten. She taught me, and many other children, how to share and be kind.
Mrs. Hall for 3rd Grade. She found out I had the chicken pox and let me finish the day anyway. It was our big Valentines Day Party.
Both of the Partington's taught high school English and I loved them. I think it was even honors English. Not to brag since I'm sure you can find a dozen grammatical errors in this post alone.

5. If you could only own 3 books, what would they be?
I'll tell you what one wouldn't be. Jany Eyre. I find that to be the worst book. Of. All. Time.
Can I count series as one book?
Thanks. Mark of the Lion, The Hunger Games and the Bible.
The funny thing is I'm not a book owner. I'm a book borrower.
Speaking of. . .I need to borrow a copy of Hunger Games before the movie comes out. Any takers?

6. If you would have been able to name yourself, what would your name be?
Now, my answer is Ada. If you asked me when I was younger and when I utterly despised my name I would have answered Courtney.
Courtney?
I know. Ridic.

7. Do you have reoccurring dreams and if so, is there one you're willing to share?
Yes, I do. I have a few. None are good. Boo.

8. What is your favorite season and has it changed over time?
Pretty sure when I was a kid I liked summer best, you know, no school. Now that I'm a mama and a stay at home mama at that. . . I choose fall. Sweaters and apples. Soup and falling leaves. It's my fave.

9. What is your dream vacation and what 3 things would be "musts" while there?
Well since you know I have no intention of going too far away.
New York City, in the winter to see the lights and the big Christmas tree. I would shop until I dropped. I would go to Broadway and be in awe. I would go to the Today Show with a sign that said "Kiss me, Matt!"

10. What 5 television shows, past or present, are your favorite?
Don't judge.
Sex & the City
Parenthood (series NOT the movie)
Grey's Anatomy
90210
Dawson's Creek

11. If you were a tree (or plant of any kind), what kind of tree (or plant of any kind) would you be?
I would be a tree from Wizard Of Oz that can talk and throw apples at people.
I was going to say a Cherry Blossom tree which is my favorite, but have you met me?
I really need to talk. Wizard of Oz it is!

Questions from Katrina:

1. If you won a gift certificate good for a year’s service from either a maid or a private chef, which one would you choose?
Definitely a maid. I love to cook. I just don't love the clean up part. In fact, I despise the clean up part.

2. Name something you’ve done that was totally out of character for you.
I hate confrontation. Just last week I told someone how I was feeling and that my feelings were hurt. I haven't heard from them since. Hmmmm. Perhaps, this is why I hate confrontation.

3. Imagine we discovered a life-sustaining planet and a way to get there in a five year space journey. If invited to go, would you be willing to leave behind your life on Earth to explore a new world? (Your family can go with you, of course.)
Nope.
Wait, does it take five years to get there.
I'm too old for that.
Nor would I want to spend five years in some sort of rocket with three kids.
It's like the longest road trip. Ever.

4. If someone gave you $500 on the condition that you somehow use it to help someone in need, how would you spend it?
Happily! Right now, in this weather I would take warm soup and blankets to our local cold souls.

5. What’s the worst movie you’ve ever seen?
We went to see The Lake House when I was in Portland one weekend. It was awful. And I adore Sandra Bullock. Raine had her hoodie on and the strings pulled tightly. I went to get our popcorn and soda refilled numerous times just to escape the disaster on the screen.

6. If you lost your U.S. citizenship and had to relocate permanently to another country, where would you go? Why?
Oh, this is hard. I would choose Ireland. You don't get much more Irish than Flanagan so perhaps it would feel like home. Maybe.

7. What’s your guilty pleasure?
Bad tv. Tv that I won't even admit to watching.
It is not the Jersey Shore or Real Housewives, so it could be worse.
No judgement.

8. Who would win in a street fight between the Black Eyed Peas and the Fugees?
I'm putting my money on Fergie. She sings songs about her "junk" and Lauryn Hill was in the movie Sister Act.

9. If you could go back in time and change just ONE decision that you’ve made, what would it be? (I’m not talking about mistakes, but about a time you had to choose between two or more paths.)
I would have gone to college. No matter what. Which is why my kids have no choice. They ARE going to college.

10. What superpower would you like to have?
I would like to have any and all of the powers that Nanny McPhee has. She can get kids to behave, clean rooms super quickly and make pigs fly. Yes, please.

11. Do you have a weird body quirk? What is it?
I don't think I have a weird body quirk. Hmmmm. Well, when I drink I hold my pinkie finger up. Like I'm having a tea party all the time. Maybe I'm English and I didn't know it. In that case I could go there too. If I HAD to leave the States.

I'm beat...

Snow Day

2012-01-20T23:13:00.000-08:00

The anticipation of sledding has the kids giggling already.
Come on, Dad.
Let's go!
(He was reheating our drinks.)

Please take a looksy at Abby's mittens.
They look a little like boxing gloves.
Have you ever tried putting gloves on children?
Ohmygosh.
I finally gave up.
You can call her Sugar Ray if you want.

Cherry Hill.
Haven't been there since I was a kid.
Looks a little like a post card.

Ready to head to the top.
Or the middle.
We weren't sure if Abby would be too scared and they would only be able to go part way up.

She wasn't scared at all.
The top it was.

Aidan was spinning on his tube.
Adam and Abs stayed straight and fast.
I only squealed a little from down below.

Aidan is growing up.
This photo may just be one of my all time favorites.
Love that kid.

The trees lining the hill are incredible.
The day was cold, crisp and beautiful.
My kids are pretty cute too.

See?
Super cute.

Laugh Out Loud

2012-01-19T16:50:00.000-08:00

Pappy is making Asher Man laugh out loud.
It was like a giggle fest.
His laugh is contagious.
Actually both of their laughs are contagious.
I only wish I had it on video for you to see.

2012-01-17T18:43:00.000-08:00

This makes me smile.
I am one happy mama.
And I have these three faces to thank for that.

Thank you, Aidan for making up songs to the tune of "Moves like Jagger" and being the best story teller. Ever.
Thank you, Abby for putting your hands on your hips when you talk and repeatedly trying to put Daddy in time out.
Thank you, Asher for cuddling with me daily and giving me that toothless grin.

You all make my days better.
You also make my nights longer, but my days better for sure.

10 Things Thursday

2012-01-12T17:19:00.000-08:00

10 Things ala Potty Training

1. Waiting until the child is three has advantages and disadvantages. Obvious disadvantage is you are changing diapers longer. Advantage is they pretty much know exactly what to do. Now getting them to do it is a different story.

2. Day One: 1 accident at 7pm.
Day Two: 2 accidents at 3pm and 7pm.
Day 3: 3 accidents at noon, 6pm and 7pm.
Hmmmm....Are we seeing a pattern here? Day Ten is going to be a long day.

3. If you are going to go straight to the heart of the process and put the child in panties you should have lots of panties. Or you should love doing laundry.

4. Dressing during potty training is a little more difficult. You need to pick one shirt that matches numerous pairs of pants. Jeans work well. Have lots of them on hand. Or decide that this week is crazy outfit day. Join the fun and do the same.

5. You may also want to have extra socks if your child is a big drinker. A drinker of juice. Come on!

6. You will spend lots of time in the bathroom. It will get really clean while you are in there. You may find that the sink is leaking and that the towels stored underneath are completely wet. Great! Just what you need, more laundry!

7. Remember to add treats to your grocery list. M&M's work well, so I've heard. I'm now adding them to my grocery list.

8. At some point if the child is jumping on the bed (which she shouldn't be doing) and stops to take off her panties and tells you that it will make her jump higher you should text it to your girlfriends. If your girlfriends are funny the text you receive in return will be something like this...Well, of course it does. It also makes you run faster and driver safer.

9. Be thankful that when you are visiting one of those girlfriends and you run out of extra clothes she happens to have some that her daughters have outgrown so your daughter is not pantless. Remember to bring her a grown up goodie next time you go up.

10. Praise that little girl when she goes in the potty. It is a big deal and she is real proud of herself. Let her enjoy that moment. Celebrate this rite of passage. Epic Win!

2012-01-11T16:48:00.000-08:00

Abby and I started a new tradition yesterday.
The birthday mani and pedi date.
It was sweet.
So sweet.
She had so much fun.
She said the pedicure tickled her toesies.
She picked purple for her them.
Lisa added flowers.
She picked neon orange for her nails.
Even though I tried to talk her out of it.
Lisa added purple polka dots.

She giggled and talked the whole time.
She used her manners.
She asked questions about everything.
She helped with whatever she could.
(She also peed on the floor, but we won't talk about that.)
She showed off her new color to her brothers.
She checked them out this morning to make sure they were still pretty.

I can't wait until next year.
And the year after that.
And the year after that.

Game Winning Shot

2012-01-11T16:15:00.000-08:00

The game was tied.
Twenty seconds left.
We get the ball.
The kids are yelling.
The coach is yelling.
The parents are yelling.
The ball is passed to Aidan.
Six seconds left.
He runs down the court.
Everyone is yelling "Shoot it!".
He shoots.
He scores.
The crowd goes wiiiiiiiiiiild!!!

I wish I had a picture of Aidan's face when he realized what had just happened.
Little boys were hugging all over that court.
They were cheering and laughing and high-fiving.
It was wonderful!

3

2012-01-09T19:06:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Abby Mae.
I can't believe you are three today.
My, how time flies when you are having fun.

You love dolls and tea parties.
You love puzzles and reading books.
You love to bug Aidan and help with Asher.
You say everything I say which has caused me some problems.
You want everything to match and I'm ok with that.
You love pink and purple and sparkles and bows.
You love makeup and fingernail polish.
You are all girl.

You are so sassy and sweet.
You are smart and beautiful.
You make me smile and giggle.
You love to sing and dance.
You love your family.
You like to go, go, go anywhere.
You don't like naps.
You will eat veggies and just about everything else.
If you could you would only eat popsicles.
Just like your dad.

I love you so much.
I thank God for you every day.
You have changed my life and it will never be the same again.
I am so happy you did.

Happy Birthday Boo.

10 Things Thursday

2012-01-05T16:35:00.000-08:00

10 things that have little to nothing to do with each other.

1. I just finished three books. I reread Breaking Dawn (final Twilight book) so we could see the movie. Ohhhh, the movie. I admit I loved it...even if it did have the most ridiculous scene (or two) that I have ever seen. Ever. Geez.
I also read Shiver for book club. It is a young adult book about a high school girl and a . . .werewolf. I know that right now it looks as though I'm obsessed with wolves. I assure you I'm not. But the book, it was super good. There are two more and I'm just waiting my turn to borrow them and devour them. Yay.
And I finally (after starting this summer) finished Sure as the Dawn, the last book in the Mark of the Lion series. Which I started, accidentally, calling The Lion King series. Luckily my girlfriends know me well enough to know that I mix up words all the time and they love me anyway. Anyway, back to the book. . .I loved it. Of course, I love Francine Rivers. She is wonderful. Her books are wonderful. I always feel closer to God when I read her and find myself wishing for the faith of the characters.
P.S. Katrina, I will return your book very soon. Thanks!!!

2. My blog recently told me that I have too many pictures and am not allowed to add anymore. I'm not really sure how to fix this which is one reason I haven't been writing. Boo. The other reason is because I've been busy. I need to figure it out and quick. I have some sweet photos of some really sweet bebes to show you.

3. Speaking of 3, little Miss Abby Mae turns three in a few days. Where does the time go? She is having a winter wonderland birthday. Please join me now in a prayer for snow, or snow dance. . .whatever you do. . . do it. Who would have guessed we would have no snow. Boo. Well it will be snowy and delightful inside our house anyway. With little girls in tutus and crowns. My heaven.

4. I was in bed at 10:37 on New Years Eve. Does this mean I am old? I had a headache, but come on. When I was in my twenties I would have danced that headache away. No more. Aleve and a warm bed. It was so nice to feel so good and rested on the first though. Ahhhhhhh. I made a ham that day with some good potatoes. Adam likes me, but I'm pretty sure that day he like liked me.

5. Been feeling like a host of an award show lately. With all the wardrobe changes I do in a day you would think I was at the Oscar's. I'm not. I just have a newborn who likes to do gross things to his clothes and mine. The other day I had spit up in the pocket of my cardigan. Ugh. Maybe tomorrow I will try imagining that I'm changing into glittery dresses with incredible shoes. Who knows? It might work.

6.Pretzels & Doritos. I have never purchased either of these things. However, when they are around me I cannot stop eating them. It is a phenomenon. A snack phenomenon. Please tell me you have a phenomenon of your own.

7. We weighed Asher the other day at my mom's house. Twenty pounds. Oh my! Abby barely weighs more than him. What a chunky monkey. I think he is almost ready for a hamburger.

8. The kids at school like to play hide and go seek. There are four places to hide. Under the table, behind the chair, behind the open door and under my desk. It always goes really quick and the kids just switch places. They love it anyway. I love that they love the simpleness of it all.

9. Book club is tonight. I am excited. We actually read a book and are going to discuss it tonight. Then we are going to pick another book. Yay! Last time we got together it was brought to the attention of the group that we had failed to actually read a book or discuss one. Someone suggested we call it drink club since we do enjoy some wine and discuss that. Book Club or Drink Club. I'm in...

10. Numerous times in the past month I have been sitting at home, watching the kids play or cuddling with Adam and have realized how truly happy I am. Life is good. I love, I am loved and I have a beautiful, healthy family. Things are wonderful. We are so blessed. It's good to be here.

Bebes

2011-12-14T16:35:00.000-08:00

My sweet little girl has good manners.
Now and then she needs reminded of "Please" and "Thank You".
But, she has always been spot on with "Excuse me".
Until recently when she has replaced that with "ribbit".
Yep.
Ribbit.
She burps.
Ribbit.
When I look at her and ask her "what do you say?"...
she says...
"Ribbit".
Sigh.

I took Aid to the eye doctor this week.
He was a little nervous with all the shiny mechanics everywhere.
He could not sit still.
At one point, his leather chair made a squeaky noise that could have been mistaken for something else.
He quickly blurted out "That was my chair!"
The Dr. and I both laughed.

He isn't doing anything super funny quite yet, but look at those eyelashes.
Love.

Festival of Lights

2011-12-05T20:07:00.000-08:00

I love myself a family tradition.

I love it even more when it involves fireworks and lights.

The parade and lighting ceremony downtown includes all that and a cup of hot chocolate.

Yay!

Although you cannot tell it from this picture, my family loves it too.
No, really.
They do.
Call it forced fun if you will.
But, it is fun, nonetheless.

It is also a little bit chilly.
Although this wasn't the worst year.
At least it wasn't raining.

Ryan giving Abby a better view.

Me and my girl.
Oh, how I love that smile.
What I don't love is having to crop Adam out of the background for making goofy faces.
Come on.

Aidan and Mama.
Good times.
It is his eighth year.
He is like a pro now.
He knows when to sing and when to cheer.

She is waving to Santa.
He is at the end of the parade.
She didn't stop waving.
Soooo happy to see him and he waved back.
I thought she was going to lose her mind.
Oh, it was fun to watch.

Aid took this of himself.
Um, I hate to admit it but I had to crop myself out...for making goofy faces in the back.
Oopsy Woopsy.

Daddy and Abs moments before...

this happened.
She hates fireworks.
Remember last year?
Hmmmm, that picture looks very familiar.

Who doesn't enjoy this?
They were the best I have ever seen.
Nice work, Mr. H.

The lights.
Abby stopped crying.
We all took a good look and made the long walk back to the warm car.
Until next year, sweet city.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-02T15:26:00.000-08:00

Yes, this post is perhaps better for the month of November.

Better late than never?

Plus, there are some photos you are going to want to see. . .

Like this one.
Yep, that's wine with a screw top lid and ice in the glass.
Classy.
Super classy.
And it was only 11:30.
In the morning.
In my defense, I had no intention of drinking that early.
I was, at least, going to wait until noon.
I made the mistake of opening the microwave.
Normally, not a bad thing.
On that particular morning there was a turkey neck in the microwave.
Please, remember that I'm a gagger.
Oh and I did.
Gag.
Over and over.
And then I said. . .get me a wine glass.

Aidan driving the tractor.
I don't know that he was actually doing work.
Think it was just for fun.
And when you are eight. . .tractor time is fun time.

Annual Cheese Off
Ohmygosh!
They get better every year.
I'm pretty sure I won this year, although we told the boys (Josh, Adam D. and Aidan) that they did.
I made a jalapeno popper dip.
It's like a cheese ball only melted.
It was delicious.
I owe it all to the girls at Our Best Bites.
I did add some things, of course.
When don't I?

Adam.
The sweet husband.
I'm pretty sure the look and the hand gesture is him making fun of me.
Choose your words wisely, my mama is near.

Asher sitting up like a big boy on his very first Thanksgiving.
He didn't have any turkey.
Maybe next year.
Or mashed potatoes.
Or cream corn.
Or jabby.
Or sweet potatoes.
Or pea salad.
Or any of the fifteen other dishes we had.
We decided next year we need to make less food or invite more people.
Leave it to my family to have enough food for an entire community.

Aid and Adam D. enjoying some cheese balls.
Aidan only ate his own.
It has marshmallows and chocolate chips in it.
Surprisingly, he didn't eat much turkey.
Hmmmmm.

The girls working for their lunch.
Haaaahahhaha.
Mopping the mud room.
My mom is so patient and good.

Since it was just us this year we went super relaxed.
The food was all set up in the kitchen and we dished up and sat in the dining room.
But we still needed a centerpiece.
It is Thanksgiving after all.
And our newest blessing was the most perfect center piece of all time.

The boys thought it would be great fun to spin him around.
Mama did not.
He only sat there for a minute before he pouted a little and was saved by his daddy.

It was a wonderful day.
Full of giggles and full bellies.
Blessings were abundant.
Praise was given.
God is good.
Today and every day.

December One

2011-12-01T11:58:00.000-08:00

Good Morning December.

I welcome you with open arms.
You are a month of celebration.
I love myself one of those.
Or ten.
I do wish there was snow.
Snow in December is my favorite.
(Snow in March. . . not so much.)
The countdown to my birthday has begun.
The countdown to Christmas too.
My days are filling with girlfriend gatherings, holiday lunches and family traditions.
Soon the house will smell like pine and be shiny and bright.
Soon we will dance in the kitchen to Christmas music.
I will sing O Holy Night at least once a day.
There will be cookies baked and wrapped with ribbon.
Christmas cards will be mailed.
Hot chocolate with marshmallows will be shared; winter movies will be watched.
And snuggles will be had.
I'm happy you are here.

Thankful

2011-11-25T16:15:00.000-08:00

Oh boy.
I'm thankful for Black Friday.
I talked the sweet husband into going with me this year.
Ryan and Emily joined us too.
We left the house at midnight after a short nap.
Crazy!

Macy's.
Target.
Dutch Bros.
Walmart.
Kohls.

Home by 4am.
The boys went back out at 8am.
I've been trying to catch up on my sleep ever since.
Little difficult to do when you Abby and Asher are around.
Ugh.

We got some incredible deals.
Our bebes are spoiled.
So am I.
I love Christmas.

Mentionables:
Macy's was a little bit tricky with their sales. Boo.

Target line was insane. We saw a man smoking in line to check out. IN THE STORE.
Made some new friends and saw some old ones.

Walmart was out of most things. Except the tv that by miracle they were carrying out a whole pallet when we walked in. Yay!

Kohls has some good stuff. I need to go in there more often. I spent most of my time taking pictures of things to send to Adam to go back and get me. Lauren Conrad whole line? Yes! Feather ring? Yes! Faux lace purse? Yes! Hair accessories? Yes! Lace shirt? Yes! Sweater flats? Yes! Fun jewelry? Yes! Ohmygosh.

Give Thanks

2011-11-24T08:03:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving friends.

I hope your day is wonderful..full of family and friends and love and delicious food.

Thankful

2011-11-23T19:54:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful that I got to spend the day in the kitchen making some delicious goodies for tomorrow.
It took me all day between taking care of the bebes.
It made a big mess since I had a two year old helper.
I had brown sugar everywhere thanks to a high speed kitchenaid and little tiny fingers.

I was in charge of the corn, bread and a dessert.
I have the best corn dish in the world.
First, let me say that I do not like cream corn. Yuck!
Don't let the name scare you away. This stuff will wow everyone.

Cream Corn
1lb frozen corn (white is better)
12oz whipping cream
1 1/2 tsp melted butter
1 1/2 tsp flour
1/2 salt
2 Tbsp sugar
Pinch of white pepper
3 Tbsp parmesan cheese grated

Combine corn, cream, salt, sugar, pepper and bring to a boil.
Then simmer for five minutes.
Make a rue from butter and flour and add to corn.
Mix well.
Remove from heat.
Transfer to glass dish and sprinkle with cheese.
Brown under broiler.

*I always use more flour and butter to thicken it up. I found the measurements above weren't enough.

It is delicious...enjoy!!

Thankful

2011-11-22T19:38:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for smiles.

Bath time provides that for all of us.

Looks like someone is a good eater.

Ohmygosh! What a belly.

Loving bath time.
I only had to remind her not to splash brother in the face a few million times.

Sweet face.
He loves a bath.

He smiles and giggles.
He splashes around like a fish.

I think the only thing he doesn't like is the pink tub.
It's the one thing I didn't replace when I found out we were having a boy.
I mean who was going to see him taking a bath, but me.
Who was I kidding?
Like I can go a whole day without taking pictures of his sweet face.

And when I got him out his big sister crawled in to see if she would still fit.
She did.

Barely.

Thankful

2011-11-21T16:22:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful that my mom made it safely home from West Virginia and spent some time with me, Abby and Asher this morning.

I'm thankful that I have a genius brother in law who had the crazy idea of bringing our new couch through the window when it wouldn't work through the front door.

I'm thankful for Monday when Aidan comes home.

I'm thankful that I only have to work one day this week.

I'm thankful that my house is warm.

I'm thankful that when I have to leave that warm house, the sweet husband starts my car for me so it isn't so cold.

I'm thankful for a busy week ahead. I love a busy week.

I'm thankful that I have so much to be thankful for.

Thankful

2011-11-20T12:13:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful that I got to hear Francis Chan speak this morning.
He wrote the book Crazy Love.
He has it.
The crazy love.
Wow.
That man is passionate about God.
He made me laugh.
He made me think.
In fact, I can't stop thinking about what he said.
You know when you meet someone and think to yourself that you wish you were more like them.
Sometimes it's little.
Like, she has cute hair...I need that cut.
Or, man she is the most generous person I know...I need to be more like that.
Or, what a good and patient mother...I need to be more patient.
He was like that.
He made me want to be more passionate about people.
And pass on the crazy love that God gave to us to everyone else.

Thankful

2011-11-19T20:00:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for date night.
Adam and I snuck away for an early bird dinner and a little Christmas shopping.
We had good food and good talks.
We found some good deals and marked some stuff off the list.
And we laughed.
Oh my, we laughed.
Then we laughed more when we got home and told our babysitters (Ryan and Emily) the stories.

I'm also thankful for some incredible customer service we got from a sweet gal named Colleen at Fred Meyer.
She went above and beyond and saved us a bunch of money.

Thankful

2011-11-18T21:33:00.000-08:00

It snowed.

We woke up to a wintry white wonderland.

I love it.*

So does Missy Abby.

Oh, my she was so excited.

She couldn't wait to play in it.

She took off her pajama shirt and put on some gloves and declared herself ready for a trip outside.

Um, nope.

What about your shirt?

And some boots?

And a hat?

And your snow pants?

There they are.
I love that smile.

This is her new sled given to her by our sweet friend Adrien.
Notice that she took her gloves off.
Yeah, they "got snow on them".
It's going to be a long winter.
I'm thankful for it anyway.

*My mom was quick to remind me that when I was a teenager I hated the snow.
I would literally fall to the floor in disgust.
I was mortified that I would have to walk/drive in the snow and risk the chance of falling/crashing.
I was a little bit of a drama queen back then.
Good thing I've changed.
About liking the snow, I mean.

Thankful

2011-11-17T15:43:00.000-08:00

Today I'm thankful for my new friend.
Her name is Pinterest.
I may be quite obsessed with her.
However, she has given me wonderful ideas for Christmas gifts, house projects, beauty tips, clothes I want, crafties, drinks to sip, snacks to try and meals to devour.
I mean, there is some amazing stuff on there and you can find it all in one place.
It is incredible.

Want an invite?
You won't regret it.
Well, you might regret it if you become addicted.
But the regret will pass quickly when you see something you can't live without.
Like this or this or this.

See?
I'm in love.

Thankful

2011-11-16T09:32:00.000-08:00

Oh my, I'm so thankful for Aidan.

I can't tell you how thankful.

He is one of my all time favorite people.

He is daring and brave.
Not sure where he gets that.
He also, as you can see above, sticks his tongue out when he concentrates.

He loves Asher man.
He was praying for a brother.
They seem to be hitting it off really well.
I think he might be a big brother hero in a few years.

These two fight like brother and sister.
Wow!
Sometimes, don't blink or you'll miss it, they love each other too.
Aid told me the other day he wants to be her friend,
she is just so. . .a list of words to describe an annoying little sister.
I think he may be quite the protector in a few years.

This is such an Aidan face.
He is my kid for sure.
Silly and dramatic.
He likes to sing and dance.
He likes to make up songs and sing them in the shower.
Loudly.

He is so handsome.
And kind.
And tenderhearted.
And super smart.
And fun, dang, this kid is fun.
I can't tell you how much I love him.
There are no words.
He makes my life better.
He makes me proud to be a mama.
He makes me happy to be his mama.
I'm thankful for him yesterday, today and all the tomorrows.

Thankful

2011-11-15T19:09:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for those things we too often take for granted.

I'm thankful that I have to do dishes every day because it means I have food to feed my family.
I'm thankful for the pile of laundry to be folded because it means we all have more than enough clothes.
I'm thankful that I have to sweep and vacuum because it means we have a home to call our own.
I'm thankful that we are all healthy and when we are not we have doctors that know us.
I'm thankful that we have jobs that provide us all we need and even things we want.
I'm thankful that we have family close to spend time with and make memories.
I'm thankful I have friends, many friends, my life is full of good people.

I'm blessed.
I'm so thankful for it.

Thankful

2011-11-14T15:41:00.000-08:00

Jules and Abby
Oh my, they love each other.
Just the other day when they saw each other at my parent's house they ran to each other, hugged so hard they fell over.
Come on.
That is love.
They play together.
The argue a little, but what best friends don't.
When they are giggling you can't help but join them.
I'm thankful they have each other.
And so are they.

Thankful

2011-11-13T18:36:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful that I have a camera phone.

I know that may sound silly, but if I didn't have it then I wouldn't have these. . .

This is actually from my Mom's phone.
I was teaching her how to use the camera and text message.
I got my first text message from her today and it made me grin from ear to ear.
Good job, Mom!
Anyway, this got me looking at my photos on my phone and I was so glad I had it around at these moments.

That is my pregnant belly.
And very swollen legs.
I only had a few days left.
I'm sitting in our backyard, probably watching Aid and Abs swim and play.
Or more likely, swim and fight.
But mox nix.

This is when Abby fell and busted up her lip.
Poor, poor baby.

Adam must have snapped this one.
Abby looks pretty little.
I double love it.

Yep, I'm that girl.
I take pictures of myself.
Sometimes I send them to the sweet husband.
Just to remind him.

Abby fell asleep.
In my hand.
Oh, I miss those nap times.

This was with sixteen other pictures I had of fabric.
I'm making blankets for the kids for Christmas and a quilt for Abby's bed.

Happy Birthday Asher.
Welcome to the family.

Abby took this award winning photo of her doll on the floor.
I can't decide if it is sweet or creepy.

Forgot my camera at the Halloween party.
Here is my costume.
You can also see Lisa, the zombie hunter.

This was to show Adam.
I want to get it for Abby.
Sweet pink fairy/angel princess.

Brotherly love.
Aidan adores Asher.
Asher adores Aidan.
I adore them both.

Date night and I ordered Adam's beer for him.
It was named something I found very fitting for him.
He thought it was funny and the beer was delicious.

I woke up early one morning and found Abby had crawled into our bed and snuggled up with her daddy.
Love.

I sent this to Adam.
Mama's with list.
Vintage inspired perfume bottle.
I know the price is high, but it is on mega sale.
70% off.
Only $5.40

Oh, Abbilicious.
You are most definitely my daughter.
I can't believe how little she looks.
Time goes too quickly.

Abby and Asher.
She is loving being a big sister.
Don't let his face fool you, he loves her too.

One day old and sleeping peacefully.
He tricked us.
That only lasted two nights.

I'll be honest.
I don't know how I feel about this photo.
She looks so grown up.
She also looks like she is too skinny for a toddler.

Thank you camera phone for always being near and capturing my days.

Thankful

2011-11-12T21:43:00.000-08:00

Abigail Mae
I am thankful for her.
In her sweet nightgowns.
Eating cucumber chip pickles for breakfast.
I know, it's gross.
But, I love her anyway.
Her level of sassiness is at an all time high.
Some think she got it from me.
I will not admit to that.
She loves her mama.
And her baby brother.
Unless I'm holding him.
She would rather someone else hold Asher and I hold her.

She loves her dolls and carries them around.
Sometimes by their heads.
Boo.
I promise she didn't learn that from me.
She loves to do puzzles.
Well, one over and over.
She is really good at it.
She likes to go to church and school.
She likes to paint.
Mostly on her face and arms, but she ends up getting some on the paper as well.

She melts my heart.
She is sweet.
And sour.
But, mostly sweet.
She likes to play in my makeup.
And my perfume.
That can be smelly.
She loves to take pictures.
Sometimes she even gets some good ones.

I am thankful for her every day.

Thankful

2011-11-11T20:26:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for those men and women who serve our country every day in the military.
I am thankful that they are brave and selfless.
I am thankful that they stand up for what they believe in.
I am thankful they do things most people will not do.
I am thankful that they fight for freedom.
I am thankful for their families that support them.

Thank you Veterans.
God Bless you.

Thankful

2011-11-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for my handsome little Asher man.
Oh, it is crazy to me that when I was pregnant I thought I wanted a girl.
Thank you, God for knowing, once again, exactly what I needed.
I am so in love with him already.
His sweet smiles make me giggle until my cheeks hurt.
He loves when I rub his head.
His very bald head.
My only bald baby and I love love love it.
He loves to snuggle and when I sing to him.
I love when he talks to me.
He has a lot to say.
He looks just like his daddy.
Which is a good thing.
His daddy is very handsome.
He smells good.
Most of the time.
He has crazy long eyelashes.
His toes are ticklish.
He likes to swing.
I love his belly.
He is my man.
I am so thankful for that.

Thankful

2011-11-09T20:59:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for Pappy.
He loves his grandbebes.
Sometimes I think that is why he had me and my sister in the first place.
He was telling Asher stories.
Asher was trying his hardest to talk back.
He is one happy Pappy.

And he makes Asher one happy boy.

Thankful

2011-11-08T21:06:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for Costco pizza on a busy busy night.

I'm thankful that we got to eat dinner as a family for the first time in a long time.
This is so normal for us.
I'm holding the camera and Asher.
Abby is naked and posing.
Aidan is being silly and eightish.
Adam is annoyed that I'm taking pictures of us having dinner.
On paper plates.
Ahhhh, sweet family time.

After dinner Asher likes to have a little swing time.

And Abby and Adam shared a shirt.
Yeah, that looks comfy.

Aidan was getting ready for basketball.
He put his shirt on backwards and then blamed it on being silly like Dad and Abs.
Uh huh, sure.

Oh, and don't you think he is going to be a little embarrassed when he gets older and he sees these pictures where he is posing like this with crazy jazz hands?

Thankful

2011-11-07T15:52:00.000-08:00

Today I'm thankful. . .

That the girls got to the TV before the boys did at after school care and we get to watch The Parent Trap instead of Toy Story. Again. This movie has the sweetest soundtrack.

That I did all the laundry in my bedroom. I found some stuff I forgot I had and cleaned out all my maternity clothes to sell.

That Aidan is coming home after five days with his dad. Dang, I missed him this weekend. So did Abby.
Friday night she told me " I want my Aidan." Yeah, I want my Aidan too.

That I'm making breakfast for dinner. Biscuits and gravy? Yes, please.

That I only have to work one day this week. I know, right? This is the best gig I've ever had.

That I'm working on a list of delicious goodies for Thanksgiving, a gift list for Christmas, a wish list for Christmas and a treat list too. I love myself a list.

What are you thankful for today???

Thankful

2011-11-06T19:58:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for family day.

Abby found this sucker in the car.
It was funny for a minute.
It was not funny when she completely lost her mind when she couldn't have it again.
Clearly I didn't think this all the way through when I let her play "baby" with it.
Mama fail.

Abby took this of me.
You can see what a bright and beautiful day it was.
I "forgot" my sunglasses.
I found some in the diaper bag when we got home.
Yep, I'm a genius.

We recently had a Trader Joe's open near us.
And by near us, I mean in a different state.
It was crazy busy.
Adam had never been to one before.
He was reluctant at first.
A road trip for groceries.
Wall to wall people with carts.
Legalizing marijuana petitioners out front.
But then. . .
Then he found the cheese.
And the ahi tuna.
And the beer.
And the snacks.
He was quickly made a lover of all things Joe.

Then we had lunch.
Burgers and fries.
Oh, the sign says that.
Guess I could have skipped that part.
What a dork I am.

This makes me giggle.
Poor Asher doesn't get a burger and he is not happy about it.
Oh, I can't stop laughing.

Free peanuts while you wait?
Yes, please.

I'm not sure what they are looking at.
Emily is over there, but she isn't sitting on the floor.
Hmmmm.
Quite the conundrum.

Adam's lunch.
Um, yeah, what didn't he get on his burger?
Wow!

What a fun family day.
It was full of smiles and giggles.
It was full of yummy food.
It was full of memories.
It was wonderful and I'm thankful for all of it.

Thankful

2011-11-05T19:18:00.000-07:00

Today was the annual Thanksgiving Tea Party.

It is one of my favorite days of the year.

Really, I look forward to it all year long.

An array of tea.
I had the white lemon.
Ohmygosh it was delicious.

Here are the edibles.
Wow!
My sister pointed out that you are supposed to take a picture of the food before everyone gets to it.
I agree with her.
However, I was feeding one hungry little boy at the time and didn't make it in time.
It's ok.
This way you can see what goodies were a hit.
Like the cheesy jalapeno bread. Yum.
And the cinnamon rolls.
Double yum.
I brought palmiers and sausage cheese balls.
Sweet and savory.

Lovely ladies enjoying their tea.

Me and my mama.
I love her with all my heart.

Abby and her cousin Jules.
I took a few pictures.
This was actually the best one.
Ugh.

Little Miss Take My Picture was missing today.
I took her evil twin to the tea.
Little Miss I Hate The Camera.
Geez.

This is Marci and my sister.
Marci is responsible for this fabulous day.
She opens up her home and her heart to all of us.
She makes incredible tea and shares her cups.
She is the sweetest.
Thanks, Marci, for the funsies.

Me and Emily.
I must say. . .I used to adore Emily.
Now, I more than adore her.
What's adore a hundred times?
That is how I feel.
She is sweet and funny, so funny.
We always have so much fun together.
And we have big plans in store.
Yay!

Grandma Karmen and Grandma Peggy.
Asher slept almost the whole time.
He got loved on by some good ladies.
Thanks, Katrina for holding him so I could eat.

Me and my sister.
Numerous times today she read my mind.
No, really she did.
I only had to look at her and she knew.
One time I talked to myself very quietly and I heard her giggle.
I double love her.

Oh, Asher man. . . I promise this will be your last tea party.
You were the only boy there.
Well, except for that one moment when Josh, Marci's son, came walking through the room.
Brave boy that he is.

What a face!
Oh my.
We were simply trying to get a picture of her with mama.
She was not having it.

I told you.
I'm pretty sure she is telling Emily "nooooooo".

Not sure what the bribe was, but it worked.
She stood still for the picture and even smiled.
Great job Emmy.

What would a tea party be without actual tea cups and tea?
Except that Abby is drinking hot chocolate.
Hee hee.

I'm thankful for today and the people I shared it with.

Thankful

2011-11-04T14:55:00.000-07:00

Abby was sitting on the doctor stool.
She told me she wanted to be a doctor when she grew up.
Then she changed her mind and told me she wanted to be a sister.
She is already pretty good at that job.

This smile is before we realized she was lacking one immunization.
Oopsy Woopsy!
She did wonderful.
Especially considering she knew nothing about it and I felt awful for "tricking" her.
I didn't trick her on purpose, but oh man did it seem like it.
I'm thankful that she didn't see it that way and wanted mama to kiss away the tears.
Phew.

Asher weighs 13 lb. 1 oz.
He is in the 90% for weight.
Chunky Monkey
He is in the 70% for height.
And his head circumference is right at 50%.
Sounds like by those measurements he should look like a cartoon character.

He got his first set of immunizations*.
He did pretty good.
A little crying, but it didn't last too long.
Everything else was good...he seems to be perfect.

Perfect and handsome and I'm so very thankful for that.

*Speaking of immunizations, my sister wrote a blog post about it recently. It won't let me link to it so here it is. . .

Dear Parents of all of my future students,

Please, for all that is holy, have your children immunized so that the sweet little darlings don't give me whooping cough ever again in my entire life. I know that you may have reasons why you choose not to immunize your children. But if they get sick with these preventable diseases, they can give them to those of us who are immunized. Like me. And if the last week and a half of my life is any indication, you DO NOT want your child, or anyone else, to get whooping cough. If you would spend just one day, or night, with me and hear the intense and body wracking coughing I go through, you would not wish it on your worst enemy, no less your precious children. You protect them in every other way. Why not protect them, and everyone else, from these illnesses? At least think about it.

Sincerely,

Jen

P.S. To the family whose child gave me whooping cough: I forgive you and pray for your sweet daughter's healing, too. But if my own children get it, it will not be so easy to forgive.

Thankful

2011-11-03T22:29:00.000-07:00

This is the view from our dining room.
Abby and I were eating lunch.
So I guess today I'm thankful for a few things.
That it is fall here and it so beautiful.
That Abby and I can spend the days together.
That the taquitos I made the other day for our freezer were actually delicious.

Oh and that even though Adam got a military hair cut, he isn't actually joining the military.

Thankful Day #3

Thankful

2011-11-02T18:55:00.000-07:00

Started a new job today.
It has been a while.
After being in banking for twelve years I'm going back to my roots.
In more ways than one.

When I was in high school my mom had a daycare in our home.
Today, I began my after school child care gig.
I get to take my bebes with me which was the biggest selling point.
The next being that my sister is my boss.
Only four days a week for a few hours a day.
I am thankful for all of that.

Abby is so esited (excited) that she gets to go to school .
She loves it there.
Today she painted, did some puzzles and found a cash register.
The cash register kept her busy for a while.
She proceeded to scan the money.
I guess she gets the idea, just not completely.

Saw this school bus on our way.
Super fitting right.
I loved the colors and was lucky enough to snap this with my phone while driving.
And Adam thought it was bad when I did my makeup while driving.
Pssshhhtttt.

Did I mention the sweet gig is at the school I attended when I was a child?
It is.
This brick building holds many memories for me.
Some good.
Some bad.
Some that I don't ever want to forget.

Like the time I kissed the preacher's kid.
Not OUR preacher's kid.
I'm also thankful for that.

Thankful

2011-11-01T21:27:00.000-07:00

Sweet Asher wishing he could have a lick of that lollipop.
Maybe next year, little man.

Today I am thankful that Halloween is over.
Abby is so scared of EVERYTHING right now.
Costumes seem to be on the top of the list.
Yesterday when we went to the doctor one of the nurses had a rubber ducky costume.
Abby hid behind me the whole time.
It's a bath toy for crying out loud.

Needless to say we skipped the whole trick or treating thing.
Except for Uncle Chris' house.
Where she got her share of candy and Emily's cat got his share of tricking.
(Sorry, Mozart.)

Until next year...
well that is unless she is scared of Santa too.

Radical Recipe

2011-10-27T19:41:00.000-07:00

Mexican Wedding Cake

This is the cake my mom makes for my birthday every year.

It is super easy and tasty.

Give it a try. . . you won't be disappointed.

Well, unless you have broken taste buds.

2 cups flour
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 can crushed pineapple (do not drain)
*Walnuts Walnuts Walnuts (not pictured...see below)

Stir it up
Little darlin'
Stir it up
Kind of like Bob Marley.

Pour it in one big cake pan
or two smaller ones if you are going to share.
Put it in a disposable pan if you are going to share it with a new mama who has way better things to do than dishes.
(Yes, there are three pans on the counter that look similar. The one in the back is chicken enchiladas. I made us some and some for that same sweet mama (also in a disposable dish). She just had her first baby via c-section and I know how hard that is. Love you Andi!)
Bake at 350 for 30 to 40 minutes.

Get a little grossed out that your flour was supposed to be used by 2008.
Ewwwww.

Be super glad you bought a new bag just this week.
Get a little mad when you think this bag is also bad.
Feel silly when you realize it is only 2011 and the flour is fine.

While the cakes are baking make the creamy, delicious frosting.
Notice that Western Family should pay you for advertisement.
2 cups powdered sugar
1 stick butter
1 stick cream cheese
1 teaspoon vanilla
*Walnuts Walnuts Walnuts

Don't be alarmed when the cakes are quite golden brown.
I assure you, this is the perfect color for this cake.

Drop a good amount of frosting right in the middle of the cake.
Spread it all around.
Save enough in the bowl to have a little lick for yourself.
You will thank me.
You will also wish you had saved more.

Done and done.
Remember when you are spreading the frosting that you forgot to put nuts in the cake and the frosting.
Silently curse.
Make sure you do it silently since your two year old is repeating EVERYTHING you say and getting you in lots of trouble.
*Go back and add walnuts to the recipe card so you will never, ever forget again.

Giggle when the sweet husband asks how you eat the cake.
Realize he means with ice cream or without, even if all you can think is "with a fork directly out of the pan".

Enjoy, friends!

Roses are Red

2011-10-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

Abby got her first dozen roses this weekend.
They were from a boy.
A handsome older boy.
He adores her.
She adores him.

I think it may be love.

Thank you Grandpa Scott for the roses.
And for loving Abby so much.

Baby Costume

2011-10-27T08:48:00.000-07:00

We aren't doing trick or treating this year.
Aidan will be with his dad and Abby is scared of everything.
Boys, turkeys, cartoons, noises. . . you name it and she is scared of it.
Oh boy.
But if we were going this is what Asher would wear.
Isn't he cute???
Thanks Grandma K for the sweet skeleton outfit!

I just love this face.
I can't help it.
It is soooo handsome.
And sweet.
Doesn't he look sweet?

Miss B

2011-10-26T08:30:00.000-07:00

Aidan brought home some of his work the other day.

I looked through it to see how he was doing.

I was amazed to see all the red on his papers.

Not because he isn't doing well.

He seemed to be doing fine.

I was amazed because I cannot imagine the amount of time Miss B must have spent doing this for Aidan and the rest of her class.

Wow!

It made me the happiest mom.

I love that on the last question Aidan said he "would have stayed on the ground" and she rights "Really? Me too."
Not only is she spending time on this work she leaves them notes.
It just seemed so sincere and kind to agree with him.
Like a special thing the two of them had.

Encouragement.
I talked to my sister about this and she told me that if this is the work she puts into paperwork that she does the same in the classroom.
Lucky Aidan!

More encouragement.

My favorite encouragement.
"Nice, my friend!"
She is sweet and funny and clearly loves her job.

I love that she uses his name.
And that she makes him think about what he should have done.
I have volunteered in the classroom for Aidan for the last two years.
I know the amount of work that goes in to a day's work for these ladies.
I am so impressed with her that she spends her own time helping these kids.
What a blessing to have her teach my son for the year.
Third grade might just be my favorite.

Fall Fruit

2011-10-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

My mom and Aidan picked some apples this weekend.
Aidan giggled while he told me that one apple fell from the tree and hit him in right in the head.
And one was hanging low and he walked right in to it.
I can just imagine him and my mom laughing and talking.
I love it.

Hmmmm, what should I do with you little goodies.
Apple crisp.
Apple pie.
Cooked apples.
All are delicious fall options.
Stay tuned to see what we decide. . .

They also picked some plums.
Don't they look perfect.

Perfect for plum tart.
Or plum jam.
Yum!!

Play Ball

2011-10-25T09:11:00.000-07:00

Asher watching his first world series with Daddy.
Looks like they are both enjoying it.
Look at that smirk.

He loves baseball just like his daddy.

Oh, baseball, you are so humorous.
He may have just seen the play where a player slid into base and got a face full of dirt.
He laughed and so did his teammates.
And so did we.

World Series 2031 MVP.

He may love baseball, but it looks like he isn't loving me taking pictures of him.
Ok, little man, I'm done.
You can just enjoy the game.

Funny Face

2011-10-17T17:44:00.000-07:00

Love

2011-10-17T17:41:00.000-07:00

Abby loves Asher so very much.
She calls him "her baby".
Like "I want to hold my baby."
Or, "Give me my baby back."

She always wants to hold him, hug him and kiss him.
I think Asher has mixed feelings about it.
I'm sure he loves her too, but would prefer if she didn't squeeze quite so hard.

Love.

Friday Finds

2011-10-14T17:23:00.000-07:00

Friday finds. . .

Me looking for yard sales and not finding one.

Sad face.

All of this happening instead.

Happy face.

Abby with a new hair cut.
Soooo pretty.
I asked her what we should do this morning.
We decided a trip to see Brittany would be perfect.
That made for three happy girls, her, me and Britt.

A really happy little boy and the best dad ever.
Adam broke Aidan out of school early and didn't tell him why.
Then he brought him home and told him to change clothes.
Adam had all his camo clothes ready.
Oh, you should have seen Aidan's face.
Well, I guess you can see it.
Yeah, it pretty much looked like that.

Some really hopeful guys in this season's fashion.
Get it hunting season.
Hunting season fashion.
Camo.
Sorry, folks, I don't get out much these days.
My humor is fading.
Boo.

Me so completely in love with this bebe.

Asher getting more and more handsome by the day.

This little person finally spending a few daylight moments awake.
Yay!

Wishing you a happy weekend.

10 Things Thursday

2011-10-13T14:46:00.000-07:00

1. Somebody whose name rhymes with shmabby swallowed money last night and had to be taken to the emergency room.

2. She is showing you her magic bracelet in these photos. She is really proud of it. I finally talked her in to cutting it off this afternoon after it pulled her tiny little arm hairs for the dozenth time.
(Is dozenth a word? Blogger says yes!)

3. I was sitting with her and Asher. When I got up to get a sucker for Asher I heard her gagging. (We are a family of gaggers so my reaction is little to none.) I told her to get her fingers out of her mouth, assuming that is what it was. She looked up at me with scared eyes that were watering. Trying to calm her down, I told her it was ok and asked if she was choking on her water. Nope. Then I asked what was in her mouth. Nothing.Then I asked again.
"Money and I can't get it out. My throat hurts." And then she started making weird gurgling noises.
Ahhhh, shoot.

4. Emergency rooms are not like on the movies when you run in and they immediately rush you back to help save your life. There were three people sitting at the desk and none of them even looked up. Um, hello? It should have been some relief that we waited for a half hour, clearly it isn't life threatening to eat coins. Relax, mama, relax.

5. My suggestion is that they have different areas in the waiting room. An area where you go if your daughter ate something she was not supposed to eat, is not going to share dangerous germs and does not want you to share yours. An area to wait if you are getting sick and need to lay down. An area to go if you are profusely bleeding from the face and carrying around a bucket of used tissues. ( I just gagged.) An area to go if you have just recently had a psychotic meltdown and are awaiting a psyche evaluation with your red duffel bag and freezer size Ziploc bag of medicine containers*.
Yes, that all happened.

6. They had the best toy out there to keep kids busy. Oh, who am I kidding? It kept me busy and Uncle Chris too. Grandpa and Chris were hunting and came to check on her. I love that. It was a touch screen with all kinds of stuff on it. Abby loved the paint one and the sticker one. (Chris loved the golf one.) I let her play with it even though I was imagining all the germs that were all over it. Ewwww. We promptly used a full container of hand sanitizer.
Oh, this is also where she innocently told Grandpa she didn't swallow anything at all and Daddy gave me this look: "If we are in here next to bloody man and psyche guy and she didn't swallow anything you are in big trouble."

7. Nurse time. Weight, height, heart rate, temperature. Then she asked questions:
Does she have any allergies?
No
Is she on any medications?
No
And my favorite. . .
So, she was just playing with a jar full of money?
Yep, we don't believe in toys. We think a glass jar full of noisy coins is both fun and dangerous at the same time.

8. Thank goodness it was Dr. time. After a quick look down her throat where there was nothing she was taken back for some pictures of her throat and belly to see where this coin was. Only one parent can go back to the x-ray room and Adam was carrying her so he went and I waited. For the longest ten minutes of my life. There was only one coin and it had passed through the three narrow points before it gets to the belly. Good news. We were told to check her diapers and make sure we find it. Sounds like a job for daddy if you ask me.

9. Discharge time couldn't come fast enough. I was frazzled and exhausted. Abby was getting sleepy and was completely done with all things doctor. She told us what to watch for and then told Abby not to eat any more money. Thank you. Then she told her again. Thanks, I've covered that. Then she said it one more time on her way out of the room. Um, yeah, I went over that with her as her mother and it being my job and all.
Also, I have a sneaking suspicion you are the woman who stole my best friend's husband so you are lucky I even let you in the room. Now, goodnight.

10. Abby asked for french fries on the way home which I thought was a good sign. She seems to be doing good today.

Back to her little sassy self, just with a new nickname. . .
Piggy Bank.

* I didn't make this up. This was all information we learned while he was having the loudest phone conversation ever.

love

2011-10-11T14:48:00.000-07:00

mama found a little thing called picnik

2011-10-11T14:39:00.000-07:00

right back at you, little man

6 weeks
i think he is pretty perfect
i also think he is super handsome
from what i can tell, he loves me too
he just started smiling
which makes me giggle
he also started pulling my hair
that does not make me giggle
his yawn face is my favorite
his sweet little mouth in a tiny circle
and the little squeak at the end
yep, he is pretty much perfect

Green Bluff I Love You!

2011-10-11T08:46:00.000-07:00

We took a Sunday drive and ended up in one of the most wonderful places on earth.

Green Bluff.

I love it there.

It is the best of everything.

This year was even better because we took some of our favorite people with us.

Uncle Chris was trying to guess how much this pumpkin weighed at Walters.
He had a few different strategies.
There were some great prizes on the line from our local radio stations.
Good Luck Chris.

Uncle Ryan and Aunt Emily.
It was their idea for the trip today.
Nice work, you two.

We love them because they are fabulous and funny and wonderful.
We also love them because they love our kids and help immensely with them.
It really does take a village.

Abby is so excited to visit the farms.
Or esited as she says.
That smile was on her face pretty much the whole day.
Except for when it wasn't.
If you have spent any time with a two year old you know exactly what I mean.
Crazy mood swings.

Asher missed the ponies and the goat that wiped the smile right off of Abby's sweet face.
He woke up to hear some music and pick a pumpkin.
A really little one.

This pony stood just far enough so Abby couldn't touch him.
He doesn't look too happy about all of this kid business in the first place.
But, he was way happier than the young girl running the pony rides.
She looked close to murder.
Perhaps she should be making cider or serving hot dogs.
Just sayin'.

We saw the animals.
Which didn't last long after the evil goat eyed the princess.
The boys shot the propane fueled corn cob gun and blew up some pumpkins.
Someone almost got hit by a teenager on a tire swing.
Then I felt bad when said teenager got in trouble by her dad who saw it all happen.
We had hot dogs and sang along with the entertainment.
The entertainment who sang a song and a half and then took a break.
The sweet husband bought me a pie.
And then we went to Siemers.

Siemers has a wicked corn maze.
We spent way more time in there than we wanted.
We did let Abby lead the way in the beginning, but then even the five of us adults couldn't find our way out.
I was just about to shoot up a flare.
If I had a flare gun.
Chris saved the day finally.
I think he could smell the pumpkin donuts.
Thank goodness for that.

This was at one of the many dead ends we came to in the corn maze.
It is human size.
Which now that I think about it is a little frightening.
Does that mean there are human size mice in this maze.
Gross.

This is the castle in the middle of the maze.
You climb to the top of it to find the X and there lies the treasure.
For the record, the treasure was not hot, fresh donuts.
And inside this castle are trick mirrors.
I was too busy looking for the skinny one to make a new mama feel good about herself to notice my backside was in the wide mirror.
Ugh.
I have never moved so fast.

This is from the top of the castle.
This is part of the maze.
Isn't it incredible?
They are like Edward Scissorhand hedges.
Which got me to thinking about my crush Johnny Depp.
Which may have been the only reason I survived the next thirty minutes surrounded by corn cobs.

Daddy and Abby Mae.
On top of the castle.
That is the corn maze behind them.
It is insane and everywhere.
You also can see in the far right corner a huge slide.
Yeah, the boys did that.
"So they could take Abby."
Mmmm hmmmm, you're not fooling anyone.

The brothers exactly where they should be.

Daddy and Asher man.
Yes, Asher is bald.
That is a whole different story all together.

Race time.
The youngest brother got the pink peddle cars with the tiny wheels.
That may be why he won't look at the camera.
Needless to say, he didn't win.
It's ok, baby.

Action shot.
The boys took two laps instead of the allowed one lap.
The boy running the attraction didn't seem to mind.
He was too busy laughing at them just like we were.
Good times.

Taking the loot to be weighed and pay the lady.
One hundred and forty nine pounds of pumpkin and a few dollars poorer we went to get some goodies.

Chris bought the last dozen pumpkin donuts.
Thanks Chris for sharing.
Ryan paid full price for a caramel apple.
Emmy got some snickerdoodles (the most delish cookie ever).
I did not pay full price for a caramel apple because I'm pretty and charming.
Or because it was closing time and they didn't want them to go to waste.
You can imagine which reason I choose.

And just to prove I was actually there and not making the whole thing up...
me.

Happy Monday

2011-10-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

I love this face

sooooo much

I can barely stand

how superstinking cute he is

Happy Monday!

Abby Antics

2011-10-06T18:10:00.000-07:00

Abby: Mom, I need you to change me. *
Me: Ok, go get a diaper.
Abby: Ok.

I love it when she listens to me.
Perhaps next time I should clarify how many diapers.
I don't need seventeen for example.

*I do realize that if she asks to be changed it is probably time to potty train her.
We are working on it.
I have a feeling it is going to be a long road.
Any tips?

Wheels on the Bus

2011-10-05T09:28:00.000-07:00

Aidan rides the school bus to school in the morning. He struggled with it last year. He didn't like the bigger kids and he could never find a seat (we are the last stop). I thought back to riding the bus in high school and how I hated it desperately and how most days I would "miss the bus" so my sister would take me. Needless to say I didn't make him. This year we started talking about it in the summer. I explained to him that since Asher would only be a week old when school started and I wouldn't be able to drive for a while he would have to ride the bus. We discussed that he was older this year so he would be one of the bigger kids. Also, he knows kids in the neighborhood and at school so he should be able to find a seat with someone he knew.

After school on the first day he rode the bus I asked him how it was, hoping it was less than awful. He looked at me and frowned, then giggled and said it was the most fun. Turns out a pretty little girl from last year rides the bus now and that makes everything better. Oh, relief.

He has been riding the bus now every day and it is going great. He has to walk a little ways down the hill to the bus stop and since I am my father's daughter I watch him. Abby and I walk to the end of the driveway and make sure he isn't kidnapped while he walks down and waits for the bus with the other kids. We wave at the bus driver and we wave at Aidan when the bus goes by and that is how our morning starts. Abby loves it. Sometimes we watch the squirrels run and play on our fence. Sometimes she plays with her shadow. Sometimes she sings and dances to pass the time. Then she starts waving as soon as she sees the bus at the bottom of the hill, while it is stopped and the kids load up and finally passes our house. With all this practice she will be fabulous at the wave if she is ever a beauty queen or a politician. I hope she is neither.

Adam worked a late shift last week so he was home when we did our morning bus routine. When Abby and I came in he gave me the strangest look.
Me: What?
Him: Oh, nothing.
Me: Whaaaaat?
Him: Last year you were worried about the older kids being mean to him on the bus, right?
Me: Yes.
Him: Well, I'm just saying that having his mommy wait and wave to him is not helping that.
Me: What? Why? He likes it. He waves back.
Him: I'm a boy. I once was a little boy. Boys are mean.
Me: Boo.

Is Adam right? I certainly don't want to be the cause of any ridicule. However, I also don't want someone to steal my baby because I wasn't watching. He is only eight, that is single digits people! I could watch and not wave. That is an option. Abby will be heartbroken. So will the bus driver. He is very friendly. This could be because he, like Adam, thinks I am crazy for the "wait and wave" and is just amusing me. Or it could be that the first week I wore my nightgown out there a few times. Oopsy, woopsy! I blame it on being sleep deprived, just had a baby craziness and it was hella hot out. Plus, I knew that kids don't notice what you are wearing. I didn't account for the adult driving the bus. I have since then started getting dressed before bus time. I even fix my hair (most days) so he knows I am not crazy. Well, so he doesn't think I am. What he doesn't know what hurt him.

Surprise Photos

2011-10-04T16:34:00.000-07:00

I found this on my camera today.
Abby must have been taking pictures.
I will have you know that the picture after this has Adam's hand in it.
Asher most definitely doesn't cry like this for mama.
Haahaaaahaaaa.
I wish that was true.
Oh, how I wish.

She loves him.
Constantly.
I think his face says it all.

Ramblies Ramblies

2011-10-03T11:44:00.000-07:00

So I missed September.

Did we go straight from August to October?

Because it is October and it feels like Asher was born yesterday (August).

Did this happen to anyone else??

Fall is my favorite season and I missed the first month.

Although, it was oddly warm here for September so maybe that is what happened.

I thought it was still August.

Or perhaps it is because I haven't left the house more than a handful of times.

In a month.

I have to get out.

And soon.

I took Abby and Aidan to get their pictures taken yesterday.
The ones of Asher turned out so super cute I just had to do it.
This is one of the outfits that Abby wore.
Adorable, right?
She was pretty good at playing super model, but when she was done. . .she was done and she informed us all about it.
I took this picture and sent it to Adam who was golfing for the "last time this year".
Again.
Aidan looked super cute too.
He was trying to pull this serious face in all the pictures like he is some sort of GQ cover model.
Not ok with mama.
Of course all I had to do was call him on it and he giggled and smiled his sweet smile.

This picture was taken by me from above my head.
So, see the black under Asher's feet.
That is me.
You can also see my feet at the other end by Abby.
I was literally covered in bebes.
I loved it more than I can put into words.

I'm making grilled cheese and creamy tomato soup for dinner tonight after school/dr appts/soccer game.
I have discovered that if I make dinner in the morning then we actually have dinner.
I tweaked the soup recipe a little and we will see how that turns out.
Last night I tried this recipe for garlic parmesan rolls and they failed to rise.
Ugh.
I may or may not have a had a little breakdown.
It may or may not have been utterly ridiculous.
My family ate them anyway and said they were delicious.
Ahhhh, so sweet of them.

My little man enjoying his swing.
The swing that Adam said is worth a million dollars.
Asher loves it.
Mama loves it.
And, clearly Adam loves it.

Abby loves it too.
I have to remind her numerous times a day that it is for the baby and she is not a baby.
She does not like this conversation at all.
She has two different responses.
#1: complete meltdown which includes her screaming for her daddy since I am the evil mother who s no fun at all.
#2: the sweetest "I love you mom" you have ever heard in hopes that it will render me blind to her swing breaking ways.

I love this little face.
Right now he is covered in baby acne.
Which I do not love.
Head to toe covered.
Sad face.
I just got some cream that I'm going to try to see if it will clear it up.
Wish me luck!

Daddy Dearest

2011-09-30T20:36:00.000-07:00

I agree, little man.
He is pretty amazing.

After taking the night shift for me for three days in a row they needed a little nap.

Just hanging out.
I love that Asher looks like he is smiling.

Plus, he makes me a cocktail when I need one.

We love you, Adam.

Sneak Peak

2011-09-23T19:57:00.000-07:00

I woke up from an afternoon snooze today to three voice mails and a text message in all capitals from my girlfriend Kelly.

"GET ON FACEBOOK"

Normally that would probably scare someone, but I knew exactly what it was.

Her sweet cousin Lorena took photos of Asher last Sunday and must have put some on facebook for a sneak peak.

I couldn't get the computer on fast enough.

I was so excited.

And they did not disappoint.

Ohmygosh.

Get ready for some cuteness.

Cuteness overload almost.

He is very handsome.

She did a wonderful, wonderful job.

Cute, right?

Even cuter.

Cutest ever.

I can't wait to see what else she has.
I am so happy with her and her photos.
Thank you Lorena!!!

*If any of you need pictures taken, please consider Lorena Tomblin Photography.
She is so friendly and was amazing with Asher.
We were so happy with her that we scheduled appointments for Aid and Abby before we even saw these pictures.
Her prices are more than reasonable and her work is (clearly) incredible.*

Abby Antics

2011-09-22T11:07:00.000-07:00

So I cleaned the house before I got in the shower.

I love a clean house.

It takes a little effort since bending over is still difficult.

But, it's worth it.

Please, let me assure you that my showers these days are not the glorious, relaxing showers of my younger years.

No shampoo, rinse, repeat.

There is no deep conditioning going on.

It is a wash your body and choose either to shave your legs or wash your hair.

Sad.

Trust me, I know.

So imagine my surprise when I found this after my forty five second rinse in the shower.

Aaaaaaagggggggggghhhhhhhhhhh!

Let's take a looksy.

Clearly she dumped out her bag of blocks.

Blocks that she never actually plays with and refuses to pick up.

I see pants which means she stripped them off her body.

Both of my camera cords are on the floor so she has been in the drawer.

I also see a few wipes.

That is her favorite thing to do. . . to "clean" herself.

Apparently she has some sort of pain as her rice bag is on the floor waiting to be heated up and put to use.

Asher's blanket is in the corner which means he is in his swing sad and blanketless.

Elmo got caught in the wind whirl that is Abby.

Poor Elmo.

This must have been a morning that Aidan was still home before school because I see two fruit snack wrappers on the floor.

No, he didn't eat one.

I'm sure he bribed Abby to be quiet with them.

Which he could have gotten away with if Abby would ever throw her wrappers away.

Oh my.

Oh.

My.

This almost makes a mama want to stop showering all together.

Just kidding.

Kind of.

I'm back

2011-09-21T09:44:00.000-07:00

I got back in the kitchen yesterday.

Yay!

I had been threatening to make spaghetti for a few days.

I couldn't make it happen.

Finally. . . I did!

Oh, I missed my kitchen and missed cooking for my family.

It is my love.

Oh my.
Doesn't that look good?
Hamburger, green peppers and I didn't have onion so I added...

shredded carrots.
Don't ask me how I decided that was a good substitute.
In my defense, I do remember making a bolognese sauce from Martha Stewart that had carrots in it.
Plus, any veggies I can sneak in is good for me and Aidan.
(Abby is just like Adam and would choose to eat veggies all day long.)

Then I added some roasted tomatoes from our garden.
Yum!
They were whole so I just took my kitchen scissors and made them smaller.

Then I added some spices and a few cans of tomato sauce.

Oh, and it was lunch time so I had some delicious creamy chicken taquitos that were in the freezer from my sweet girlfriend Michelle.
I know the ends look a little brown.
They were.

Asher sat on the kitchen table and I sang him to sleep.
Well, me and the Woman of Faith worship team.
They weren't actually in my kitchen.
Dang, I wish!

And while you are eating some lunch you might as well check on Abs.
She is having a tea party.
She also doesn't have any pants on.
Great!

Looking good.

*Note. I didn't like it at all. I may have over seasoned it. It apparently has been too long since I had been in my kitchen.
Everyone else liked it just fine.
Boo.
Now I have a pot of leftover sauce that I won't eat.
What if I turn it into lasagna with cheese and noodles.
Perhaps that will help??

Abby Antics

2011-09-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

Abby loves to play photographer.

Every time I load the pictures on to my computer I have to delete a dozen of her chin or her toes.
Most of the time there are some really unflattering shots of me too, or at least parts of me.

This time she was trying her best to get a picture of her little brother.

Good effort.
I mean she almost got his whole body in there.

The more I look at this one the more I like it.
Not bad at all, actually.
Helps when you have a really adorable subject.

She gave up rather quickly and just took a picture of the picture on the computer.
If all else fails...cheat.

Ramblies Ramblies

2011-09-19T12:23:00.000-07:00

I spent the morning packing up all of Abby's summer clothes and all of her 2T stuff.

I then hung up all kinds of 3T clothes and filled her dresser full.

My sweet friend, Calista, brought me a new wardrobe for her this weekend.

Calista has incredible taste and that makes Abby one lucky little girl.

She also brought a swing, two other chairs and numerous other things for Asher.

The swing is saving my life.

Hallelujah!!!!

I owe her big.

Hear that, Bug? I owe you!

I have also done two loads of laundry, made blueberry muffins and took a shower.

I know that doesn't sound like much.

However, it is the most I've done since I had Asher.

I forgot how long recover is a from a c-section.

I tried to push it and I paid dearly.

Tomorrow will be three weeks and I feel pretty good today.

Inside and out.

A few more weeks and I should be back to normal.

Or even better.

Speaking of Asher...

Sweet Asher asleep on mama.
I love holding him here and loving him up.

Our first picture.
It was taken last week.
I look tired.
Oh, let's be honest. I'm exhausted.
I see that is going to last a while.
I'm ok with it.
He's worth it.

Aidan scored another goal at his soccer game on Saturday.
Ohmygosh, it was soooo cold.
Thought my fingers were going to break off when I clapped.
Burrrr!
Abby made friends with a grandma there and used her blanket.
She is a friendly little girl.
Most of the time.

Adam went golfing yesterday.
He said it would be the last time of the year.
I don't buy it.
Not one little bit.

So the kids and I spent yesterday afternoon at my parents.
I love being there.
We all do.
Aidan and Abby helped my mom in the garden.
They picked this record breaking cabbage.
It weighed 16 pounds.
Whaaaaat?
They also picked green beans, carrots and some beets.
Aid "helped" her wash them.
I'm sure she ended up cleaning more after he helped, but she never once complained.
Nor did she complain when she made us all lunch.
Or when Asher woke her up from her nap.
Or when Abby ate a million popsicles.
She is amazing.
I'm so glad she is my mama.

And speaking of being a mama...

My bebes.
I am so in love.
With all of them.
Even if Abby has wet, tangled hair and won't let me brush it.
Even if Aidan has a red mustache from flavored water and some on his nose.
And even if Asher looks super annoyed.
They are my heart.
My heart is full.

Blessed Sunday

2011-09-18T21:16:00.000-07:00

Women of Faith
2011
I love the Women of Faith conference.
It is amazing, uplifting and encouraging.
This year did not disappoint.

My sister, mom and me enjoying the day.
We were also with my mother in law, sister in law and other wonderful ladies.
Thank you Jen, for breakfast, for not making me walk too far and not running over the parking attendant.
Thank you Mom, for lunch, my scarf and checking on me all day long to make sure I was ok.
Thank you Karmen, for my ticket so I could go in the first place and the new Mandisa cd.

I only got to go on Friday this year.
It's hard to get away when you have a newborn, two other kids and a husband who works odd hours.
Big thanks to Adam for spending fourteen long and trying hours alone with all three bebes so I could get away on Friday.
Love you, babe!!

Patsy Clairmont was there and talked numerous times during the day session.
I could have sworn that she was talking directly to me a few times.
The rest of the ladies could have just left for a coffee.
It wouldn't have surprised me at all if she would've looked at me and ended her sentences in "right, Ada?".
I love her and I loved her message.
She is always a blessing.

We also got introduced to Andy Andrews.
My goodness that man has some energy.
I wasn't sure about him in the beginning.
He was wearing me out.
But, by Friday night I adored him.
His energy, his passion, his crazy speaking style and his message too.
What a blessing it was to meet him.

Oh, and then there was Mandisa.
You know how I love her.
She helped me here and here and numerous other times.
Her music and her spirit are incredible and strong.
I will tell you, if you promise not to laugh, that I cried when she came on stage like some sort of teenage fan of The Beatles.
I feel such a connection to her, her voice and her songs.
When she sang Broken Hallelujah I sobbed and sang and memorized every minute in my heart.
It was a personal blessing.

We cried and giggled.
We praised and prayed.
We shopped and ate.
It was pretty much a perfect day.
A blessed day for sure.

Soccer Season

2011-09-15T12:48:00.000-07:00

And so it begins...

Last night was Aidan's first soccer game.

Aidan scored the first goal.
He came off the field for water and ran over to me to make sure I was watching.
I was.
He then told me "I had a feeling I was going to score today."

I was proud of his effort yesterday.
He usually isn't very aggressive.
He doesn't want to hurt anyone or get in their way.
That really doesn't work on the field so we've been working with him to go for the ball.
He did great!

After a throw in.

Asher can't stop watching the action.
It's thrilling.

She has fun watching brother and running around too.
It was good to see her out and about.
We've been pretty much home bound for the last two weeks.
She loved it.

Loving the game.
Especially after his goal.

Taking some time to play with his sisters.
They both adore him.

Sideline time.

She found Adam's water and clearly does not want to give it back.
I think Aid wanted a drink.
She wasn't having it.

Double love.

Perhaps they're getting a little tired.
Laying down on the job.

Good game.
Good game.

Somebody doesn't want to leave the fun.
She knows I can't chase her...and she thinks it is hilarious.

Two Weeks

2011-09-13T17:11:00.000-07:00

That is exactly how I feel, Asher.

Two weeks ago my life changed.
Again.
I met this sweet little boy and nothing will ever be the same.

He smiles in his sleep.
Which is during the day because he refuses to sleep at night.
He smells delightful and has the sweetest hair I've ever seen.
I love to kiss his cheeks.
He doesn't love a sponge bath.
Or having his diaper changed.
He does love a good nap in the afternoon.
And a warm bottle.

I am happy.
I forgot how much you can love a tiny person.
It feels like I just met him and I've known him forever at the same time.

I'm also exhausted.
Being a new mommy is tiring.
Being a new mommy and a mommy of a two year old and an eight year old is beyond tiring.
I have lots of help so I'm not complaining.
Adam has been completely amazing.
Our families have been wonderful.
And I have some of the best friends a girl could ask for.
Plus, if there is any reason to be exhausted this is the best one without a doubt.
You just forget all that comes with it.
Good and bad.
I'm relishing all of it.
Even the middle of the night never ending cries.
I just snuggle him close and sing to him wishing I knew what would work so he could have some sweet dreams.
So we all could, really.

The thing is, my sweet dreams would be of this tiny little person that has changed my life and made it better.
I'm lucky to be living it.

An Open Letter to the Sweet Husband

2011-09-12T21:25:00.000-07:00

Dear Adam,

You went back to work today. I dreaded it all weekend. Those two weeks went entirely too fast. I cried a little today for no reason other than I missed you. Abby cried for you too. What cry babies we are. I wish you could've stayed home with us for just a little bit longer.

Thank you for taking care of us. For cooking and cleaning numerous times a day. Thank you for helping me with all the kids with school and doctor appointments and all the laundry that goes with it. Thank you for sleeping in the chair so I wasn't alone on the couch. For waking up every three hours to help me with diapers and bottles. For making sure I took my medicine on time and helping me get around. For taking care of everything so I didn't have to. I didn't even have to worry about anything. You are wonderful. I am so lucky to have you. We are all lucky.

I appreciate all you did and continue to do for us. Thank you for loving me so much.
I love you for all times.

a

2011-09-10T20:54:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't want a bowl of huckleberry ice cream?
Delicious.
Wait, before you decide...look closer.

Oh, hello there little butterfly sticker.
Where exactly did you come from?

Normally I would lose my mind.
I am quite the germaphobe.
Then I remembered that the last time I got ice cream for the family I had just been sticker attacked by Abby.
Abby likes to play with stickers and share them.
And by share them I mean she puts them all over you.
(Yesterday I had seven princesses on my foot.)
I must have had one on my hand that fell off and lived in the land of huckleberry.
Lucky little butterfly.

Well, that is a sad little candle holder.
Broken and sad.
This is just part of your life when you have children.
Accidents happen.
This is also one of the many good things about yard sale decor.
When you spend a quarter on something and it breaks you sigh and toss it.
I will find another one next summer.

Abby showing off some cucumbers from the garden.
She is most definitely Adam's daughter.
She would eat a cucumber instead of ice cream all day long.
She loves them.
Aidan and I just shake our heads at her and her veggies.

Two of my sweet bebes.
He looks so tiny and she looks so big.
Abby loves to do whatever Asher is doing.
I burp Asher, I have to burp Abby.
I rock Asher, I have to rock Abby.
I feed Asher, I have to feed Abby.
She is reminding us all she is still our baby too.

Aidan loving on his new brother.
He didn't want to leave this weekend for his dad's house.
I think he is afraid he will miss something.
He calls to check on him and it makes me proud to be his mama.
I don't have a brother so I don't know about this bond, but only ten days in and it seems to be an amazing thing.

Abby Antics

2011-09-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

Seeing all of these measuring cups in the dishwasher would make one assume that I have been making some wicked deliciousness in the kitchen.
I only wish.
It really is just proof that Abby is tall enough to get into my drawers and play with all kinds of stuff she shouldn't be playing with.

Soon enough kitchen friends I will be back.
With a vengeance.

3rd Grade

2011-09-06T19:01:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I have a third grader.
He looked so big in his school clothes this morning.
When did that happen?
He was super excited this morning.
Up before 7am.
Showered and dressed without being asked.
Made his own toast and one for Abby too.
He was waiting for me for once.
I wish every morning was this easy.
Even after doing this for the last four years the first day always makes me a little teary.

This is his sweet teacher, Miss B.
We wanted her for third grade.
Our wish was granted.
Doesn't hurt to have friends in the right places.

This is the little girl who begged to go to school today.
Oh, so sad to be only two and a half.
She did get a new baby doll on a little trip to the store with her daddy.
That made it all a little bit better.

And this is the sweet little man that lets me have five more years before I do it all over again.

Welcome to the Family

2011-09-05T18:24:00.000-07:00

One day old.
Not surprising that I am already completely in love with him.
He is handsome and sweet and smells like Heaven.
He is perfect and my own little miracle bebe.

Not even a week old and he has changed so much.
Of course now I know more about him.
Like that he thinks he is part vampire...sleeps all day and up all night.
Mama is exhausted.
It only took me one day and seven different outfits to remember that if I pointed his parts downward we wouldn't have the dry diapers, wet clothes issue.
Sigh.
He doesn't like having his diaper changed, but he most definitely likes to eat.
He squeaks and snorts and makes funny faces.

This is my answered prayer.
God is good and He proved that once again Tuesday morning.
I love you Asher.

Happy Birthday

2011-08-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday

Asher Scott

8 lb. 6 oz.

20 1/2 inches

Tomorrow

2011-08-29T18:28:00.000-07:00

Guess what???? This time tomorrow I will be holding a little baby boy. Well, somebody in our family will. But, I will have held him and counted his fingers and his toes and kissed his cheeks and cuddled him up.

We go in at 9:30 and surgery is scheduled for 11:30. And let me tell you it can't get here soon enough. It has been a long couple of days. A long couple of moody, mad, sad days for this mama. I tried to be positive. It was hard.

However, I know that tomorrow a little before noon I will have forgotten all about this weekend and the last nine months. When I hear this little boy cry and see all of his hair and see my sweet, proud husband it will all be small potatoes.

We've been praying for a healthy baby and now we are also praying for safe delivery for both of us. God is good and our trust is in Him. Thank you for the kind words and prayers.

2011-08-27T10:37:00.000-07:00

I feel like they moved Christmas.

You know when you are a kid and you can't sleep on Christmas Eve. You are so excited for the next morning and that night is the longest and slowest. That is how I felt on Thursday. I couldn't wait until Friday. I would finally after nine long months get to meet my son. I would get to hold him in my arms and kiss his face. We have been counting down to Friday for six months. It was all planned...our own little "Christmas".

So when I got the call late Thursday night that the surgery had been postponed I was heartbroken. The doctor used an ultrasound due date to schedule my c-section. The hospital will not use that due date. They will not allow you to go any sooner than 39 weeks and they only think I'm 38. Lots of red tape and policies that came to light on Thursday after I spent the night there on Wednesday after I woke up at 1:30am with contractions that didn't progress to labor.

You can see it's been a long few days. We will know more on Monday morning when we meet with the doctor to reschedule. I'm hoping for good news.

I am trying to be positive. I know that God is in charge here and that His plan is best for me and the baby. I don't understand it (once again), but I choose to trust it. One thing that has been very clear from the beginning of this pregnancy is that God is in complete control and Ada is not. We have prayed from day one for a healthy baby and if we have to wait five more days then we will do just that.

*The doctor was sincerely apologetic when he called to give a very large, pregnant and uncomfortable lady some really bad news. He also told me I cold shoot him with a BB gun on Monday. Odd? Yes.
*He also told me he hopes he can make it up to me. I don't know what exactly that means...I'm open to suggestions to give him.
*Aidan called me yesterday morning in tears that he wasn't going to meet his "first brother". That was hard for mama too. He has also called me numerous more times just to check on me. I love that sweet heart of his.
*Adam and I are taking advantage of a few more days together before life changes (again) as we know it.
*I'm going to get some rest, stay cool and just let this little boy enjoy a few more days before he is snuggled and kissed all over by all of us.

A baby will be here soon.
Yay!!

10 Things Thursday

2011-08-11T09:50:00.000-07:00

Things I'll be doing in the next 15 days while counting down...

1. Numerous doctor appointments. It seems like the neverending story. I do love my doctors, but three times a week is just too much. Geesh.

2. The last softball game of the summer. Bittersweet, really. I love watching the brothers play and Emily and I get to visit and giggle. However, Abby just last week discovered that the fields are a great place to run and she can run faster than I can these days. Phew!

3. Adam turns 30 tomorrow. We're going to party like it is 1999. Kind of. Except that he would only be 18 back then so he would be drinking soda and I'm pregnant so I'll be drinking iced tea. Perhaps we should leave the crazy partying to Prince. Dang.

4. A little getaway with some of my girls to relax and giggle. I need it. I am so thankful for the best mother in law ever who is keeping Abby for me so I can join the party. Plans include, sitting on the beach, reading, snacking, playing cards and lots of giggles.

5. Beautification. I told my salon girls that I would like to be looking my best when I meet my new son. They were all for it...new hair, mani and a pedi. That should work perfectly!

6. Outdoor movie. Field of Dreams is playing downtown and I think it may be one of the all time greatest movies. Family and friends and some stars above. It may be one of the all time greatest nights.

7. Pool days. As much as I can get in before it's time. Summer came late this year, but it is here now and I'm taking full advantage. I even figured out how to get some sun on my back. Yahoo!

8. Meal Prep. I'm going to take a day and freeze some meals for the family. Adam is taking two weeks off when the baby is born (which I find amazing) so he will be here to help. If I get the freezer full it will just make things easier and I'm all for that.

9. Family day. Before Abby was born we took Aidan to the Build a Bear and let him make an animal for his new sister. We all put wishes in it and lots of love and brought it home for her. We are taking the kids to do the same thing for Asher. Combine that with a little mexi food we all love and it will be wonderful for the family of four soon to be five.

10. Resting. Yep, I actually have two days scheduled for rest. No plans at all. With no intentions of making any plans. Just rest, read, enjoy the last few days of being pregnant as I have no plans of ever being pregnant again.

Catch Up

2011-08-10T04:59:00.000-07:00

Here I am.
It's been a while.
Sometimes you get to busy living life to write about it.
Which is a good thing.

Here's a little catch up...

I only have sixteen days left before the big birthday of the baby boy.
Yay!
I can't believe it is that close, but I am so glad it is.
I am definitely ready to see his sweet face and love him up.
I feel pretty good considering I'm this close to the end.
Been having pool days with my girls and loving every minute of it.
Even if my front is a little bit (or waaaaaay) more tan than my back.

Adam turns the big 30 on Friday.
Joining the ranks of the rest of us.
Welcome to the club, baby.
He plans on a little golf, some cold beer and a baseball game to celebrate.
He has been so busy at work and with our crazy yard that it will be good for him to get a break.
Lord knows he deserves it.

Aidan is growing like a weed and getting browner by the day.
I can't keep him out of our pool unless someone mentions fishing.
It is his new passion and he is actually getting pretty good.
He informed me the other day that he is looking forward to school.
I'll remind him of that come December when he doesn't want to get out of bed.

Abby Mae is a sweet handful of love and drama.
Holy goodness...that child is too much like her mama.
She loves the pool too and cries when she has to get out.
She asks for popsicles from morning to night and thinks that one at a time is ridiculous.
This couldn't be because my mom gives her four or more when we go to her house all the while assuring me how very little they are.

Life is good.
We thank God every day for His blessings.

10 Things Thursday

2011-07-28T17:11:00.000-07:00

10 Things Us

1. Today we have been married four years. Four really good years. Four years that included our first cruise, two trips to Disneyland, two babies, lots of date nights, one really big fight, lots of kisses and giggles, numerous home projects, heartache and joy and the very best days of my life.

2. I keep buying Adam books with the hope that he will learn to love reading as much as I do. You know so we will be like those couples in the movies that lay in bed and read before sleeping. It has yet to work. In fact, I sold all his books at my yard sale last weekend. That either means I give up or I have stopped trying to "change" him.

3. When we met I had an age limit of boys I would date...25 to 33. He had very recently turned 25. I almost said no. He will turn 30 next month...I think I got the best years of him so far.

4. I did have to give him my phone number two times. Well, I gave them to my friend at the bank who gave them to her husband who gave them to Adam. When we started dating I found that business card that had very clearly been chewed on by his dog. Hmmmmm. He apparently didn't know how cute/sweet/fun/smart/amazing I was.

5. When he did call to ask me out I saved the voice mail and made all my girls listen to how sexy his voice was. Ohmygosh. I also called my sister to see which one of the three brothers he was. I was confused as to who was the oldest and youngest and wasn't sure which one would be showing up at my door to buy me some din din. It was the most perfect brother for me.

6. The morning of our wedding we were setting up tables and chairs in the backyard where we were married when I looked up and saw an eagle flying circles around us. My favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 40:31 but those who hope in the LORD,will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. I immediately knew it was a sign from God...it was going to be a perfect day. And it was.

7. This morning I woke up to the sweetest love letter. It made me smile before I was quite awake and I'm still smiling. He really knows how to make me feel loved and special. He is incredible at that.

8. Tonight I will spend the evening cheering him on while he plays two games of softball. He said he could skip it, but I told him that would be silly. I like watching him play and I love that he is such a good sport. He is taking me on a date tomorrow night and I can't wait. Dinner at our favorite place and a movie. Yes, please.

9. He just recently amazed me in a situation with a broken family. I am so proud of the man that he is and how he handles himself. I am proud of who he chooses to be and the influence he is to others. He is a great example of a husband and a father. Being his wife is a blessing and an honor.

10. Life is good when you get to spend it with your best friend. It is even better if your best friend is a good kisser. Here is to the last four years of happiness and love and a million more to come.