TempletonTales

Travel Lessons learned from MawMaw Boots.

2011-05-15T19:26:00.000-07:00

I loved Curtis' Grandma. He called her MawMaw Boots. This was his Dad's mom...and if you know Curtis' Dad, you should know that his mom was just a female version of him. Funny as can be, could light up a room with her smile and big laugh, and had a heart as big as you could imagine. I loved every minute I got to spend with her.

Unfortunately, she is no longer with us.

When Lexi was 4 weeks old, we traveled to West Virginia so she could meet Lexi. We knew MawMaw Boots wouldn't be with us much longer. She was very sick, but still had a little life left in her.

One night, I volunteered to drive her up the hill to her son's house (they lived directly behind her on the same property, but she was too fragile to walk.) And as we drove, she looked at me and said how much she appreciated us making the trip...knowing it wasn't easy on our family. Then she went on to talk about how traveling with your family is so important...and how those memories will last a lifetime. Her eyes were filled with so many memories, it was as if I was reliving them with her. She had 5 boys, so money wasn't always easy...and she said that. She said, "We didn't have a lot of money...but we always found a way to travel and be together." And then told me that we should always do the same. I promised her we would.

I think about that conversation a lot. Especially when friends tease us about going away all the time...or taking too many vacations. The truth is, I learned from MawMaw Boots and I learned from my parents and my in-laws, that getting away is sometimes the best thing you can do for your family. And it is in those moments, away from jobs, school, the house, chores, bills, and responsibilites...that memories can be made. Memories that were strong enough for MawMaw, whose mind was failing her, to remember with vivid clarity.

We made memories like that this weekend. And as I was sitting here thinking about them, my mind wandered back to my drive with MawMaw Boots nearly 5 years ago now. And I know we made her smile.

Escaping Nightmares: Headed to Jibberland.

2011-05-02T09:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I asked the good people of Facebook for advice on how to take care of my baby when she has nightmares...which are about 6 out of 7 nights a week. So many of you gave me great advice. And I thank you. So many of you talked to me personally and I'm thankful for that too. Several of you offered to pray for Haley, and for that, I'm more than grateful...but honored you would think of my family.

I got one email last night from a friend of mine who I had talked to at church yesterday. She has two daughters of her own, one of whom has experienced bad nightmares also.For some reason, her words just made me tear up...I'm even doing that now as I type this. I can't really explain why. But what came out of her email inspired me to take up the blog again...and that's a big deal.

Before I go into her advice, I will tell you that I feel like I have tried everything. Praying...which is what I do when I wake up from a bad dream. We have encouraged her to do that also, but what a pang in my stomach when I heard her say through her tears, "I keep praying to God...but he's not answering me." Man...that is so hard to explain. And so heartbreaking too.

We've taken away tv, video games, scary books...anything that has seemingly promoted fear. Doesn't change anything.

We've let Molly (our dog) sleep with her, left the light on, left the door open. Nothing.

She does ask us each night to sleep with her. And while I know that is a temporary solution, it doesn't teach her how to self-soothe...or put herself back to sleep. And I want her to learn how to do that as well.

We've read with her, snuggled with her, prayed with her. Still the same.

I used to tell her not to talk about her dreams, because I was scared it would make them more real. But we've started talking them out more...helping her understand that most of what she is dreaming about could never happen, and that mommy and daddy are here to keep her safe. But when she told me that she is dreaming about a "monster trying to steal her soul," I was left a bit speechless.

There is heavy stuff going on here. And I am taking everything you have suggested to heart.

I have several new things I am going to try. I tried the first one last night after reading my friend's email.

I told Haley that her friend Jeselyn had the same experience. And one night, Jeselyn crawled into her sister's room. And her sister made up an imaginary land called Jibber. There are no monsters or bad things there and there is lots of candy. So I began to tell Haley about this land. And this is what we created together.

Jibberland...

A land where the streets are made of chocolate chip cookie dough. And you have to walk on your hands so your mouth can be close to the cookie dough ground at all times, so you can eat while you walk.

A land where the trees are pink cotton candy.

A land where the rainbow is made of laughy taffy.

A land where there are NERDS (the candy). That was my suggestion since it is my favorite candy. Haley asked me where the NERDS would be, and I said, "in the library of course."

A land where birds poop gum packets.

A land where the ice cream store only carries her favorite brand of ice cream.

A land where the playground is made of gobstoppers and the houses are made out of cookies.

This is the land that Haley can go to whenever she gets scared. A happy place. I told her Jeselyn invited her to go there anytime...and it sounded so good, I would probably be in there too.

We laughed and smiled and talked and cuddled before she went to bed...as visions of Jibberland danced in her head.

She was so happy. She never woke up.

So one night down.

No nightmares. We'll see what tonight may bring. But at least I am armed with ideas, prayers, and a passport to Jibberland.

Lexi's Thoughts. (Age 4)

2010-10-12T22:21:00.000-07:00

While driving home with my sweet Lexi today, this was our conversation.

Lexi - Mom, are we driving on the freeway?
Me - No Lexi. This is "Adams".
Lexi - Oh.

~~silence~~

Lexi - What's the next street name? "Eves?"

When did my daughter's hands get so big? And other things I've learned about the First Grade.

2010-09-27T09:02:00.000-07:00

This morning, I got some snuggle time in with Haley. She's 6. And she's growing so fast. I swear kids age in dog years.

So while we were laying there playing with Star Wars Figurines (don't all 6 year old girls start the morning playing with Star Wars Figurines?) I was just staring at her hands. Taking apart C3P0, putting him back together again. Holding the Storm Trooper & shooting his tiny gun. And all I kept thinking, was how big her hands were. Those could not possibly be the sweet tiny hands that used to grip my fingers, could they?

Yet here she is...6 years old. A first grader.

She's doing so well. She loves her class. She loves her teacher. I have learned that people are very opinionated about what teachers they like and don't like at Haley's school. (Though I'm sure that is universal). All I know is that I think her teacher was made for her. She is very structured and very strict. But she pours out her heart to those kids and loves them all so much. Haley used to volunteer in her classroom after school last year, and she really wanted her as her teacher. I'm so glad they were paired up. On the first day of school she came home and announced, "Well, I'm not going to get away with ANYTHING this year!" My heart might have done a little leap of joy. And it's true. She hasn't gotten away with a thing. And I love it!

Here are some pictures from her Back to School Night

Our Family Tree

On Friday, I was in the classroom helping. I think my favorite part of that morning was when I was doing crafts in the back with the kids and Haley was at the craft table with two other boys. As soon as they got there, they started talking in Star Wars Lingo about different toys they had. "I have the Storm Trooper Blaster Snow Lego Man Hans Solo Death Fighter Starship Something"... I don't know. It all sounded like the teacher in Charlie Brown talking to me. " Waah Waah Wahh Wahh Wahh... " But apparently, it was REALLY exciting to them, cause' their eyes were as big as saucers... in awe of each other's Star Wars Collection. Then Haley stands up quietly and whispers, "And I have some of these..." and proceeds to put her hands in her pockets and pull out two Darth Vader toys that she smuggled from home! "Haley, where did you get those?" I asked. She said, "I snuck them from home...I didn't want you to see them cause I thought I would get in trouble." To which I say, "But you know that you're showing them to me right now, right?" She smiled. Then the other little boy stands up and gently pulls a Boba Fett character out of his pocket. WHAT IN THE WORLD? It's like the Black Market for Star Wars toys in that first grade class.

So Haley has found herself in a classroom filled with Star Wars Freaks. They have matching backpacks, lunch boxes, and folders. They wear uniforms, so there are no matching clothes. But I'm sure they would be wearing the same underwear if I let Haley buy the Star Wars Underoos from the boys section that she wants. But you know...at some point you have to draw a line.

One other thing I've learned about first grade...they seem to be really diving into the idea of nutrition at her school. Which I'm all for. However, maybe they've learned a little too much when Haley points out people that are on the heavier side and says, "I think that person has had too many trans fatty oils." REALLY? Trans-Fatty Oils? Wow. Okay. Score one for Nutrition.

Also, score one for Reading. I love what a fabulous reader Haley is now. She wakes up every morning and reads to herself. It's a great activity that quiets her down and focuses her. I love to sit next to her and listen to her read. Hard to believe a year ago, she only new her ABC's, and now she is reading entire books.

This really is going to be a great school year. Curtis stepped up to be Room Dad. I was in a meeting one day, and he kept texting me about how big Haley was getting and how he wanted to spend some extra time with her this year...so he signed up to be Room Dad. And he's loving every minute of it. We have a great class, great teacher, great parents, and we have a little girl that we adore.

... A little girl whose sweet hands have reminded us of how quickly time goes by and we need to treasure every minute.

God talks to me in the Garden.

2010-08-26T14:50:00.001-07:00

...or maybe I just listen more when I'm in the garden.

Last weekend, Curtis and I spent a couple days re-doing our front/back yard.

There was one area where we used to have a little garden... but our lovely Golden Retriever decided she rather make that her territory, and basically trampled our plants. And the truth is, we got lazy at tending to it. So it got kind of grassy/weedy...and by "kind of", I mean, we were one step away from finding large animals hiding in there and re-opening our backyard as a zoo.

So, I finally said, enough is enough! Plants can't grow there, but we can pull up the weeds and put some mulch down and at least it will look nicer.

So we did.

And that was hard. I mean really hard. And it was hot. I mean really hot.

I believe it was approximately when I pulled up the 1,029th weed, I started to draw a parallel between weeds and sin. We never intended for that section of our yard to get out of control. But before too long, things just started to grow. And the roots started to get deeper. And when I finally got around to cleaning it up, the roots were so deep in some areas, it took all my might (plus a lot of sweat, and manly grunting) to get them out of the ground.

Isn't that the same as sin? It starts innocent enough. Maybe you mess up once, and don't really think about it. Or maybe you think you got away with it, so you do it again. Or maybe you rationalize that it's no big deal. Or maybe it just feels really good, so you keep doing it. It doesn't really matter how it starts... what matters is, if you don't tend to it...before too long, it takes over your life. And then it requires some major intervention to get it out of your life. I had my kids helping me... Curtis was bringing in mechanical tools...I mean, It had really gotten out of control. But with help, the weeds were gone.

Sometimes, we need help to get the junk...the weeds...the sin out of our life. That help begins with surveying the damage...looking out and seeing an ugly, messed up garden, and deciding something's gotta change. Then asking for help to start pulling out the weeds.

The result can be something beautiful. And it will stay beautiful with constant watering...trimming...attention...care.

The same is true with our lives. We can't allow the roots of sin to find a place in our heart. We've got to constantly tend to our soul. In a sense, we have to allow God to be the gardener...supplying us with His light and His living water. Let him trim away all the parts that are not of Him...that are not eternal.

The result will be something beautiful.

John 15 1-8
"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.

So you wanna know, huh?

2010-06-28T19:48:00.000-07:00

I mentioned something about my menus for the week and how I stayed under $100 bucks to feed our family. Inquiring minds asked me to post some deets...so I thought I'd share with you how it went down.

Backstory... Curtis and I have spent way too much on food recently. You know, like pretending we have money, and then spending it. It's really ridiculous. We don't buy clothes, toys, or anything else other people do. But we really like to eat. And apparently, we REALLY like to spend money while doing it. So we get carried away every once in a while and come back to our senses and remember we have a budget and we need to stick to it.

So here's how we pulled it off.

Last night, I got out all the grocery ads. I went through each one and picked out the good deals...on things I would normally eat. Now here's the thing... I love me some Trader Joe's...but I decided not to go there this trip. Their produce can get spendy...and sometimes I don't like how it's packaged. Like if I only want one pepper, I should only buy 1. Not 3. So I looked to the other ads for some inspiration. And when I found the veggies I liked that were on sale... I based menus around them.

So for tonight... the menu was:

Chicken/Sour Cream/Green Chili Enchiladas.
Mexican Rice
Avocado/Corn Salsa with freshly squeezed lime / salted chips.

So how did I get there?

It started at 9:30am.

Trip to the (GASP) 99 cent store. Yep I did it. And I'm so not ashamed. It's full of great deals.

Here's why I went. The same pack of tortillas that I would buy in the store for $2.69. = 99cents.
12 limes - 99cents.
Bag of onions - 99cents
packaged red and orange peppers - 99cents
Organic black beans - 99cents
Watermelon - 99cents
Tomatos - 99cents

Need I go on?

There's no shame in my game. As long as you carefully select your produce... it's really the place to start your trip. So many deals. And most of it is local, so that's good too.

Then we went to VONS...

Here I got numerous other things... all of which were ON SALE... most of which I had COUPONS for.

But the items I needed for tonight... sour cream (store brand) - 1.50 and the secret ingredient to my dinner... a Rotissiere Chicken (cause I barely like chicken...I'm sure not going to cook one, then stuff my enchiladas with it). It was also on sale for 5.99.

After that we hit up Albertsons... where I bought the non-essential but such a good deal... 8 Starbucks glassed Frappucinos for 7.00. That's 8 for the price of 2 Frapps at Sbux. Yep. Good deal.

Then SPROUTs... where I hit the gold mine in fresh produce... LOTS OF GOOD DEALS TODAY! And All part of my recipes for the week! Only bummer... out of avocados. And their shredded cheese was WAY too expensive. So we had to go to Ralphs. Which I remembered from the ads had cheap cheese... and their organic avocados were only 1.50.

So in full disclosure... here's what I spent (rounded up)

99cent store - 12.00
Vons - 41.00 (bought sunscreen/toothbrushes too
Albies - 16.00
Sprouts - 23.00
Ralphs - 6.00

Total = 98.00

BOOM!

And dinner was divine. Everyone ate it. The in-laws even popped by to pick up something, and what started with "I'll just have a bite" turned into much more.

So that's how we did it.

I love knowing that the rest of the week is planned out. We have good food. And we stayed within our budget.

And if you'd like the recipe for the enchiladas... Please to enjoy.

Ingredients:

12 corn tortillas
4 cups green chile sauce, recipe below
3 cups cooked minced chicken ( I just picked chicken off the store-bought rotisserie)
1 pound shredded Monterey Jack cheese (I only used an 8 ounce bag)
1/4 cup minced onion
1 to 2 cups sour cream
salt to taste
green chile sauce, below
Preparation:

Heat tortillas on griddle or in microwave or heat in oil until flexible; cover with a towel and keep warm. Make green chile sauce, below. Mix one cup chile sauce with the minced chicken. Put 1/4 cup of the mixture on each tortilla and roll up. (* I also added a couple spoons of sour cream to the mixture). Place tortilla rolls, seam-side down, in a baking dish, cover enchiladas with shredded cheese and add onion if desired. Pour remaining sauce over enchiladas and bake at 350° for about 20 minutes. Top with sour cream and return to oven for 10 minutes or until all is hot. Serve immediately.

Green Chile Sauce

1/4 cup olive oil 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 cup minced onion 1 tablespoon flour 1 cup water 1 cup chopped green chiles salt to taste

Saute garlic and onion in oil in a heavy saucepan. Blend in flour; add water and green chile and mix well. Add salt. Bring to a boil and simmer, stirring frequently for 5 minutes.

* I added a bit of sugar to my green chili sauce...it seemed like it needed it.*

Okay my friends... Hope you enjoy it. Thanks for reading! Now go save some money & eat home made food!!!!

Sea World Ban

2010-05-19T21:48:00.000-07:00

Remember the movie the Matrix? Morpheous offered Neo two pills. If he took the red pill, he would realize what the Matrix was, and he would be pulled from it. He would know the truth. If he took the blue pill, life would go on as before. Nothing would change. Before Neo reached for the red pill, Morpheous said, " Remember, all I am offering is the truth...nothing more."

So, this week, I decided to choose the red pill. I wanted to know the truth.

Yeah, I know this sounds dramatic, but let me explain myself.

I have always loved sea life. Specifically dolphins. My room was decorated in dolphin decor throughout my childhood. I started college with a minor in marine biology so I could become a dolphin trainer at Sea World. (Yeah, that obviously did not work out.) I go to Sea World, and I cry at the mere beauty of these beautiful creatures. I LOVE DOLPHINS.

Perhaps you remember this little documentary called, "The Cove". It came out last year, and it won the OSCAR this year. I knew it was about dolphins. I knew it frowned upon captivity, and so I put off watching it because I didn't want to feel guilty about going to Sea World.

Turns out, everything I predicted turned out to be true. Time to cancel my Sea World Annual Pass.

Here's the story behind the movie...

Ric O'Berry who was the dolphin trainer in the old TV show, FLIPPER, is the man basically behind the idea of dolphins in captivity...and invented techniques used to train dolphins. He grew to realize that he had made a critical mistake in putting dolphins in captivity and has spent the past 30 years trying to undo the damage he created.

In this movie, he focuses on a small, coastal town in Taiji, Japan. A town that hunts bottlenosed dolphins. Why? It all comes down to money. Zoos and Aquariums are willing to pay top dollar for beautiful, bottlenosed dolphins that can be trained and used commercially... i.e, in Sea World shows. These dolphins will sell for an average of $150,000. The dolphins that are not selected are massacred. Literally, trapped in a cove. Left overnight. And then stabbed with spears the next morning. Leaving the ocean stained red with their blood. It is a horrifying image.

These massacres will continue to happen as long as people are paying for tickets and supporting aquariums/zoos who offer shows that feature dolphins or offer swim with dolphin programs.

The movie goes into greater detail of why dolphins do not belong in captivity. And you can also read more about it at:

www.savejapandolphins.org
www.thecovemovie.com
www.gaia-health.com/videos/V000041-Taiji-Dolphin-Slaughter.shtml

As much as it pains me to know I may never again experience an interaction with a dolphin, I just can't support these animals in captivity anymore. I encourage you to watch the move and/or read these websites for more information.

A Birthday Letter.

2010-05-14T08:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Lexi,

I can't not believe you've blessed our family for 4 years now. Well, technically 4 years and 9 months.

I can remember the day I realized you were growing inside of me. I just knew. In fact, I knew before science. They have tests you can buy in the store that tell you whether or not you are going to have a baby. I took a test on Friday. I didn't even tell your Daddy. He might've thought I was being silly, so I didn't want him to know until I was sure. That test told me no. But I didn't believe it. So, I took another one on Sunday morning before church. And it said yes. I KNEW IT! And Lexi, I was so happy, I got down on my knees and started crying and praying a prayer to God just saying, "thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you."

That day when daddy came home from church, your sister Haley was wearing a shirt that said, "BIG SISTER"... and he was SO surprised! Then he had to go on a trip to help people in Louisiana, so I didn't get to see him the rest of the week. But we told Grandma/Granddad & Grandma/Papa & Auntie Jen and Dodo on Friday night. We hid a pacifier in the bread basket that said, "Surprise!" And boy, were they surprised!

It was fun to have you in my belly. Even though you like weird food like McDonalds. (YUK!) Then all I wanted to eat was fruit...and I ate A LOT of fruit. Enough to give me diabetes. So, my doctor said, "NO MORE FRUIT!" Which made us both very sad!!! But I still think that is why you like fruit so much.

I knew you were going to be a girl on Christmas day of 2005. We had our nurse put your ultrasound in a secret envelope and we opened it on Christmas Day. I really thought you were a boy...but Lexi, I'm so glad you are a girl. God knew I needed you.

Here's how we told the world what your name was...

That's you inside of my belly!

You grew and grew and grew until it was time to go to the hospital. Mommy had to have a c-section, so we picked out your birthday. May 12th seemed like a really good day to us. This is a picture of us when we got to the hospital.

This is a picture of Mommy before the surgery. I was a little nervous.

Daddy was soooooo excited to meet you. Isn't he cute?

They told me it's time for surgery! Time for Lexi to be born! Now, Mommy is excited too!

Here is a picture of the doctors working on mommy so you can come out and see us.

And just a few minutes later, we had our first family picture taken...

You were finally here....

You sure found your fingers quick...

Your sister was in love with you at first sight...

We all were...

It was finally time to go home.

Oh look! The stork announced your birth! All 9lbs and 2oz of you!

We walked in those doors and began our new life with you. You have brought so much joy, so much laughter, and so much love to our family Lexi Mae.

Your Daddy and I love you with all of our hearts Lexi. We are so thankful that God chose us to be your parents.

Happy 4th Birthday!

Love,
Mommy.

Scratchy Dishes.

2010-05-11T14:46:00.000-07:00

I got kinda bummed putting my dishes away today. I noticed a lot of them are pretty scratched up. They were a wedding present, so to be fair they are over ten years old. But still, the scratches are hard for OCD people like me.

But as I bent over the sink, holding a plate in my hand, I started thinking about how many times those dishes were used. How many birthdays, dinners with family, parties with friends...How many good stories were shared over dinner....How much laughter filled the room over dessert...how many brownies were eaten while watching our favorite shows like Survivor or LOST.

And as each moment filled my mind, I started to like the way my scratchy dishes looked...because etched into each one, are sweet, precious memories.

Lexiism.

2010-05-10T09:51:00.000-07:00

While riding in the car, Lexi started singing a song. When she was done Haley said, "That was pretty Lexi. Sing it again."

Lexi said... "I can't. It's not in my brain anymore."

Pay no attention to the lady crying on the carousel.

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

Today was a beautiful day.

It was also an emotional one.

It started off with a Mother's Day Tea at Lexi's preschool. She was so excited for me to come to her classroom. And the morning did not disappoint. She sat on my lap. She sang a beautiful off -key song about Mother's Day. She made me a craft...painted in my favorite color. We shared a little sandwich and some juice together. And it was as if it was all happening in slow motion. She's growing up so quickly, I kept thinking. My heart's rhythm started to pick up the way it does before I start to cry. The tears were almost there...And then I would remind myself to stop and enjoy the moment.

Fast forward to tonight....

We took the kids to Disneyland after school. And it was just one of those perfect days. Not too crowded. The kids were in good spirits. And our little family of four was together for the first time in a long time...with no agenda. Just open to wherever the day would take us.

So many good conversations were had. So many laughs. So many smiles. So many "I wanna remember this moment" moments.

We got on to the ride, 'Finding Nemo' and I was sitting by Haley. I wish I had my phone handy to capture a picture. Instead, I will have to describe the moment. She was sitting in her little submarine chair, looking out her circular window, so wide-eyed and full of awe...so beautiful...and it was as if I almost couldn't breathe. I was so full of this amazing love for her, I thought my heart would burst. Literally burst. And the tears almost came again. Instead, I just simply leaned over and kissed her head. And said a silent prayer of a million thanks to God for blessing me with my daughter. I could not love her more. I could NOT.

And then an hour or two later, we were sitting outside on the boardwalk eating dinner. Lexi and I were finished and she wanted to go ride the carousel. "Can we ride the carousel Mommy?" Of course, I said. And so the two of us went ahead while Curtis and Haley finished dinner.

And as we were walking I just wanted time to stop. Cause I know that the wonder of the simple little carousel will soon not be enough to make my sweet little Lexi excited. And with that thought comes a thousand others...all based around my sweet baby growing up.

And those were the thoughts that captivated my heart as I sat on my sea otter and she on her fish and we rode the Little Mermaid Carousel. And each time she smiled her big smile, and laughed her big laugh, another tear would fall. I would inconspicuously wipe my eyes and hope that all the smiling parents taking pictures outside the ride wouldn't catch on to this super emotional mom that is just madly in love with her kids...willing time to stand still...and disappointed that it would not.

We got off the ride, and walked towards Curtis only to find him holding Haley like this...

Could the day be any richer?

I told Curtis I got all emotional on the carousel, to which he replied, "Why?" And as I started to tear up AGAIN, I said, "Check the blog later." "Really?" he says... "Check the blog? Is that what we've come to?" I laughed... but the truth is, today was just one of those days. The love is too thick, too much, too good. I can't even think about it without getting emotional. So it had to be written down.

Cause yeah, I'm the crazy lady that cries on carousels. I'm the one sitting alone in my house wiping my slobbering face with my sleeve cause I've run out of kleenexes...Cause I'm the one that has been blessed with a love greater than a deserve.

Picasso

2010-05-06T20:16:00.000-07:00

Lexi drew Mickey Mouse today.

And though you may have a hard time picking him out, she pointed out every little attribute of Mr. Mouse.

She was very proud of herself.

I'm proud of her too. Mostly because, her drawing of Mickey Mouse shows more promise than mine.

Feel the Love.

2010-04-27T22:59:00.000-07:00

Tonight, I was driving in the car with my mom and the girls.

We passed by the hospital where Lexi was born, and I said "There's your hospital Lexi!"

The following is the remainder of our conversation.......

Lexi : That's where I was born.

Me: (feeling all sentimental) Yes it is.

Lexi: I don't want to have a baby.

Haley: Why, cause it's gonna hurt?

Lexi: I don't want to have a baby.

....perfectly setting up a moment that could be oh so sweet, my Mom says: But Lexi, Mommy had two babies, and look what she got.

Haley: A STRETCHY BELLY! That's what she got!

(sigh).

Reason #4692 I love Yoga.

2010-04-26T22:42:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned I like yoga? Oh, like is not the word. I love it. I really, really love it.

And the weird thing is, I just happened into it. Thought I'd give it a try. And now I spend every day thinking about when I can practice some more.

Why do I like it? So many reasons...

But here are a few...

It relaxes me.
It helps me focus.
I am slower to anger.
More hungry for peace.
I feel healthier.
I feel stronger.

And reason #4692?

It is healing my body. HUH? You say. Yes, it's true.

I have had undiagnosed leg pain for 15 years. 15 YEARS people! So many doctors, therapy, etc. My right side has been in pain since I was in Jr. High. Started with my hand and moved down to my leg. The leg pain is so severe at times it hurts to walk. Countless massages and physical therapy have only been a bandaid.

I hadn't slept on my right side since college.

Then I started yoga.

It's been 3 months of practicing at least twice a week.

And guess what? The pain is slipping away. I can sleep on my right side.

Yoga is helping me take back my body.

And I couldn't be more happy.

I take Vinyasa Style Yoga...which is power yoga. It is not easy. It is definitely a workout. One of my favorite things to hear my teacher say mid class is, "Whoever told you yoga was easy, lied to you to get you here." I think that is true.

All that to say, the class may be hard, but the rewards are plenty.

So try it. It may change your life and your body like it has changed mine.

Library Germs.

2010-04-19T21:58:00.000-07:00

I took Haley to the library this afternoon. She got her first library card, and we had a pretty awesome time.

Then I went over to pick out a few books for myself, and I thought, "hmmm...why don't we do this more often?"

Then I thought...wow...these books go into a lot of different homes.

And I'm not saying it happens in my house, but I have been to a house or two where "reading material" is present in the bathroom.

So I just stood there...wondering...how many bathrooms have these books been in?

Yeah, you shouldn't let your mind go there. It can get pretty gnarly.

Picture Books.

2010-04-19T21:23:00.000-07:00

I like looking at pictures. Sometimes more than words. For example....I usually read PEOPLE magazine more often than a wordy novel. (Which to be honest is a time thing more than anything else.) So for that reason, I thought I would just post some recent pics...with a word or two about each one to kinda catch you up on our life since I was missing from the blogosphere for awhile...

We spent a little time in Old World.

My sister had a beautiful baby girl named Kinley Grace. And I obviously need more pictures of her since I only have the delivery pictures to show.

But with the baby, came more time for me to spend with my niece, Emily.

Lexi and I went to the park with Cousin Emily.

We enjoyed the California Sun and have had some fun Beach Days.

We rode some tiny trains.

This came home in Haley's weekend packet...apparently she's really good at math!

She was also picked to help lead in chapel.

Peter Pan and Tink showed up at the house!

And my sweet husband made us some yummy homemade pizzas! That's Amore.

We've had some good times lately.

And that concludes my Picture Book.

The end.

Blogging again. Oh, and Lexi is a Holy Roller.

2010-04-18T15:03:00.000-07:00

I am a total slacker at this blog thing.

Life got busy. And let's face it...Facebook is a lot easier. Especially for those of us with ADD. A quick status update...and I'm out. Off to do 346 other things...and of course, not finish a one of them.

But here I sit, on a Sunday afternoon...with nothing to do. Well, I suppose I could clean my house which happens to look like a college dorm room at the moment. Or I could work on the garden, which appears to be turning into a tropical rain forest. Or I could scrub the toilets, which appear...ah well, I will stop there.

Instead, I think I will blog. I will give it another chance.

So what to talk about?

Well...lets see. A lot has happened recently...but I think I want to write down a story about my precious Lexi before I forget it.

We do this thing at our church...Baby Dedication. It's where the parents come up with their little tot and dedicate them...well, really, it's the parents saying that commit to raising them in a Godly manner, in a home where Christ is at the center. It's lovely. And they give the parents a rose to signify something (Which I forgot)...and they give the baby a little tiny Bible. You know...the tiny ones that you can barely read without putting on your bifocal glasses. The one that has no pictures and is in the King James Version...no offense...but neither of which are very "kid friendly."

So to be honest...Lexi's little Bible has sat in her dresser drawer for 3 years. She found it about 3 months ago, and carries it with her around the house. She will come up next to you and say, "Read me my Bible." And of course, you have to. You also have to translate it to a more "kid-friendly" version. But she loves this. I mean, she loves this little Bible like most kids love Dr.Seuss.

So now that you have that little backstory...tuck that away. We'll come back to it.

But first, you need to know this. We moved into our current home almost a year ago. We are friendly with our neighbors...everyone is very nice. But I have other friends that live in neighborhoods where there are kids everywhere...always coming and going. And I've always been a bit envious. I would love for my kids to have that.

So last week, we were outside playing, and the girls finally connected with some kids who live several houses down. Before I knew it, these kids were in my house, hanging out, playing. Which is cool. I liked it. But please keep in mind...we don't know these people at all.

So imagine my shock when I hear my sweet Lexi go up to this little 8 year old girl and say, "Can you please read me my Bible?"

Silence.

Me. (Suddenly frozen...but waiting to see what happens.)

And the girl in her soft spoken voice says, "Okay?" Emphasis on the question mark...cause she really wasn't sure.

So here's what you need to know. I know the Bible isn't for everyone. I mean, well, it is...but some people aren't into it. I get that. And I am sensitive to it. Do I wish they would be? Of course. But I'm not so sure thrusting a little tiny King James Bible onto a girls lap and asking her to read Revelation is the way to bring something to Christ.

So then the little girl looks at Haley and says, "I don't have a Bible." And Haley says, "WHAT?" And she says, "I don't go to church." And I kid you not...my sweet, church mouse daughter DROPS THE TOY SHE HAS IN HER HAND, and says, "YOU DON'T GO TO CHURCH?"

Me. (In the kitchen making noise...getting real nervous and wondering how to handle it.)

"Haley" I say... "Not everyone goes to church."

"WHAT?" She says. She is completely confused.

Enter Lexi.

Lexi clueless about what is happening is persistent with her question... "Can you read me my Bible?"

Okay, now I realize this is getting a little crazy a little too quick. "Lexi, honey...Mommy will read it to you a little later. The girls are going to work on a craft now."

Lexi is okay with that. And she goes and takes the Bible away from the girl and then as if we are straight out of some crazy evangelistic movie, Lexi starts walking around the house with her Bible in her hand saying, "This is God's Holy Word...a light into my path...a lamp on my head." (Ah well, close enough.)

She must have said it about 10 times...over and over. And I am a crazy mixture of laughing to myself...cringing out of nervousness for the girl who probably thinks we are straight up Jesus Freaks and will never come over again...and also partially wondering if this isn't God moving/speaking through my child... Yep, all those feelings...all at once.

And right about that time, Lexi busts into the song "Waves of Mercy, WAves of Grace...Everywhere I look, I see your Face."

Seriously? When did my daughter turn into such an evangelist?

The truth is, it all made me a little nervous because I know that religion is such a polarizing topic. And although this wouldn't be the way I would choose to tell my neighbors about Jesus...I love the innocence of both my girls. I love their boldness. I love that they want to read the Bible, that they think everyone should go to church. I love that they are forming a relationship with Jesus that they want to share with their friends. I love what they are teaching me!

The good news is, we didn't scare the little girl off. She's been back over to our house since that day. So maybe my girls will keep building a relationship with her and who knows? The Little Holy Rollers might even lead her into the best relationship she could ever have....one with Jesus Christ.

Dear Haley.

2010-03-13T00:16:00.000-08:00

As I drove you to school today, I loved listening to your precious, sweet voice sing songs to God. I love hearing you worship. You sang "I will exalt You. You are my God." And my heart was full.

When you told me you loved me, my heart was happy.

When Lexi told you she loved you, everything felt right.

When you closed the door to the car and started running off in your blue uniform dress, I thought about how I would miss you today and couldn't wait to pick you up and hang out with you all afternoon.

When you turned around and blew me a kiss, time stood still. Tears fell down. I felt so loved. So completely full. And so completely aware of how quickly time passes by...and how I wanted to treasure that moment for the rest of my life.

You are growing into such a beautiful young lady. I'm so proud to be your Mom. And as long as you want to blow me kisses...I will be here to catch them.

I love you sweet Haley.

Hurt Billy Heel.

2010-02-23T14:39:00.000-08:00

There is a hill on the road on the way to my mom's house. We've crossed that road so many times now. And each time, it gets a reaction out of the girls. When it was just itty bitty Haley, she would say "WEEE" and laugh. Now that she is older, and Lexi is around, they always giggle and ask the other, "Did it hurt your belly?"

Last night, I was in the car with my Mom and the two girls. We went over the hill and Lexi said, "See Grandma...it's the hurt Billy (belly) heel." (Sidebar: Both of my kids pronounce hill as heel most of the time, because I have a hard time correctly pronouncing that word as well.) So my mom says, "OH... that's what she is talking about!" Apparently the other day she was trying to describe this hill to my parents, but they could not comprehend what she was saying.

So fast forward to this morning. We took a different road, but going in the same direction as my mom's house. And Lexi says, "Where is the hurt billy heel?" And I told her we were on a different road, so we wouldn't go over the hill today.

BUT...I forgot there was a tiny bit of a hill, one that made her say "MOMMY! It was a little hurt billy heel...see I told you we would go over one." And I said, "You are right! It was like a mini hurt belly hill."

She interpreted "mini" as "Minnie"...you know...like the Mouse.

So she says, "Yeah...and we'll call the other one MICKEY hurt billy heel."

Perfect.

A Dramatic Emotional Post about Fruit.

2010-02-21T20:53:00.000-08:00

Tonight, Lexi and I ran to the store to grab a few items for the week ahead.

If you've had any sort of conversation with me recently, or have read a bit of my blog as of late, you know that we are on a super duper tight budget. Like 2 sizes too small of your favorite jeans tight.

The reason we went to the store was to pick up a few things on sale that went back to regular price tomorrow... one of those being grapes.

So we walk in. And let me pause and just say if you know my Lexi at all, you know that her voice is about 10 times her size. I think it has to do with hearing problems...coupled with an inheritance of loud voices on a certain side of the family (BRUCE.)

But I digress... we walk in, and she has her sale ad in one hand and with her booming voice declares... "There are the grapes. We need the grapes." And yes. We got the grapes because they were 69cents a pound... Then she pointed to the ad and proceeded to say "And we need the blueberries, and the strawberries and the raspberries too." (Sidebar: Lexi loves fruit like the desert loves the rain.) But the blueberries and the strawberries and the raspberries are not on sale, so I simply say...not today.

Yep. Not so simple. Because now we standing in front of the berries. "Here are the berries Mom." And I said, "We can't get the berries today...only the grapes." And then she points back to the ad and says (and by says I mean screams), "BUT THEY ARE ON SALE!"

At this point, I just had to lean down close and say, "Sweet Lexi... I know they are on sale, and I want them too...but they are just a little too much money right now." She looked up and me and said, "So we only get grapes?" And I said, "Yes, we only get grapes." "Okay Mommy" she says.

And honestly, I didn't think anything of it until I was just washing the grapes. The kids are in bed. Curtis isn't home. The house is quiet, and all I could think of was Lexi's sweet little voice asking for berries...but being okay that she only got grapes.

I wish I could give my kids the world. This week, I wish I could just give my kid berries. But tonight, I hope I gave her more than that. Because the reason I didn't buy the berries...the reason we're on this budget in the first place...is to be able to provide for them consistently, to not be in trouble financially, and to be secure in times of crisis. She won't get that now...but maybe one day she will.

Until then, we'll eat our grapes. We'll watch the ads. And we'll get those berries...eventually.

Olympic Gold.

2010-02-19T00:19:00.001-08:00

It is February 18, 2010.

For as long as I live, I will never forget this night.

It started out great as Curtis and I got to go hear Rob Bell speak. Good stuff.

Then we came home to find Evan Lysacek starting his Olympic long program skate. So exciting.

At 11:23, I heard a door open, and a comatosed Haley walked out mumbling something about being thirsty.

We gave her some water.

She saw the Olympics were on and started talking about hockey. (Earlier in the day, I had mentioned how I was bummed I wouldn't get to see the olympics tonight, so she said she would watch them for me.) "I watched the Olympics for you mom...Hockey."

Then Curtis said, "You wanna snuggle up with us and watch some more ice skating?"

So we have spent the past hour on the couch watching ice skating. You've got to understand how much I LOVE the Olympics! And to be able to watch them with my very tired daughter (i.e. snuggly), and then to watch Evan WIN THE GOLD... it was just a moment of pure perfection.

What a great night! Hurray for the Olympics. Hurray for Evan. Hurray for sweet family memories.

RETHINK IT.

2010-02-14T21:53:00.001-08:00

If you ever think it might be a good idea to show your kid an animal planet special on bats...specifically VAMPIRE BATS who drink people's blood... it's not.

While I was in the other room, Curtis was watching said special with Haley. This was at 4:50pm. It is now 9:54. And after consoling her throughout the night, and trying to explain how those exist in a completely different part of the world and she will never see them, she is sobbing in her bed about the bats.

Hmmm....let's stick to the cartoons instead next time love.

I eat like a Queen.

2010-02-13T21:32:00.001-08:00

Seriously.

So since we eat at home all the time now, I don't want to get bored with what we eat...so I started buying more interesting food.

Can I just say how awesome our dinner was tonight?

Warmed pita bread with Tabouleh salad. If you haven't had Tabouleh salad before it is SO DELICIOUS.... It's made with chopped fresh parsley mixed with bulgar (crushed wheat), chopped green onion, tomato, fresh mint, spices, extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice.

Yeah. SO GOOD.

Then Curtis grilled up some chicken/apple sausage with Grilled peppers and onions. I told him I only wanted a bite, but couldn't stop eating it.

Jiminy.

The best part is... I added up how much all of that food was... $5.46 for BOTH OF US!

Boom.

Now I look forward to tomorrow's lunch... shrimp / lime tacos.

Seriously. I eat like a queen.

Just a Thought...

2010-02-11T10:38:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine was telling me about a song that asks the question, "What if in the next life you were forced to live off of what you GAVE in this life."

It's a question that cut deep to my heart.

Because seriously, what if?

Don't be afraid to give. I believe in tithing to my church. Trust me, it's an act of faith each month. But it's liberating. It's a freeing act of obedience. But if you aren't a believer...that won't be for you. What is for you? A Charity? A Cause? A Country? There are so many people/organizations that need our help.

Don't be afraid to give.

On the same team.

2010-02-06T20:42:00.001-08:00

Since Curtis and I have been married, we've been REALLY serious about our finances two times. The first time was when we were buying our first house. The second time is now.

There is something about focusing our energy towards the same goal that brings us closer together.

I look back with the fondest of memories about our time in Vegas...saving for our house. Cutting coupons, shopping at Wal-Mart, buying the cheapest food possible, not going out, eating lunch in the breakroom at work while our friends went out, not shopping for anything other than what we needed....you get the gist of it.

Anyway... we met our goal. And it was such an accomplishment for us.

We're no where near our current goal, but each day, I have so much hope and anticipation of what the next day, week, month, year will bring. We are in this together. And that is bringing us closer to each other.

I love him so much. I'm glad we're on the same team.

It's the little things....

2010-02-05T09:54:00.000-08:00

So ya'll know I've been in a Starbucks/Restaurant/Target Detox Program.

In order to not completely deprive myself, I'm allowed one Starbucks a week. I happened to get a coupon for free oatmeal in the mail (which is Curtis' favorite)... so this morning he went to Sbux to get me coffee and his free oatmeal.

A lady cut in front of him in line and then looked back and said, "I'm sorry...did I cut you off?" And he said "Yeah, but it's no big deal..." She felt so bad, she PAID FOR MY COFFEE!

FREE STARBUCKS FOR ME!

How awesome is that? Our one trip to Sbux and it didn't cost us a cent!

Pantry Week Night 5 & 6

2010-01-30T21:37:00.000-08:00

I was reminded tonight that I failed to post my Night 5 & 6. It was a rough few days in mommyland... so by the end of the night, I just wanted sleep. But I am back with pictures to prove that Pantry Week continued.

Night 5...

A lovely pasta / salad/ with homemade garlic/cheese biscuit. (I GOTTA HAVE BREAD WITH MY PASTA...please note that I needed it so bad, it was half eaten by the time I took this picture.)

Night 6....

Tacos. We seem to have plenty of Mexican food around here. And I sure don't mind. Curtis grilled himself up a hamburger... double patty with cheese. I threw up in my mouth when I looked at it, so I didn't take a picture.

So tomorrow was supposed to be my shopping day, but I had to break the rules a bit and go today cause my schedule is messed up tomorrow. So the pantry is once again restocked and we are ready to rock! Looking forward to another pantry week. But don't worry... I'll spare you the pictures unless something fascinating comes up!

Pantry Week. Night 4.

2010-01-27T22:14:00.000-08:00

Well I will blame tonight's dinner choice on the fact that my body is all kinds of messed up.

But it's messed up for good reasons... my sister had her daughter last night. I got a phone call from my mom a little after 1am, and off to the hospital we went. Kinley was born at 5:53am. So beautiful. So perfect. What a sweet little miracle. I was so glad to be a part of it. I will post some pictures as soon as I can find my camera cable... I have no clue where it is.

Anyway...I came home around 8:30 and tried to rest for a couple of hours, then had to go to work. Wednesday is the only full day I have in the office, and my kids are at Grandma's house...so I don't know what their dinner was.

I got home a little after 9... scanned the fridge and the pantry...and this is what I came up with.

Yep...I am embarrassed to even show you.

Turkey Dog & Trader Jo's Reduced Guilt Potato Chips.

And you know what's worse? I ATE TWO OF THEM!!!!!!

Pantry Week. Night 3.

2010-01-26T19:49:00.001-08:00

In spite of my bad mid-day Sbux/Target Craving... we made it through another day.

I am including a bonus pic with this blog because our breakfast was so good...it should be shared with the world.

I proudly introduce the 'Breakfast Shamu Bowl'... vanilla yogurt/ flax granola/topped with blueberries. DELICIOUS!

Tonight's dinner was my Chipotle knock-off. White rice topped with black beans. Sliced tomato (only have 2 in the house... so I made one work). Cheese. Green Onions. Sour Cream.

Curses! I was out of avocado. I LOVE avocados. Then like a bolt of lighting above my head (DING!), I remembered I bought FROZEN avocados at Trader Joes a LONG time ago. I pulled one out and thawed it in a bowl of water. And was STOKED I remembered that...and that I could help clean out the freezer a little more.

A few minutes after I started defrosting the avocado, I looked in the sink and found this....

Apparently Lexi's pony wanted to "take a bath with the avacodao." Cute.

Oh... and I took some plain tortilla chips and warmed them in the oven. Right before we were about to eat, I squeezed lime juice on them, salted them, and put them back in the oven. They came out exactly like Chipotle. I WIN!

Here was our finished product.....

Now it's time to make brownies.

I Need a Hit...

2010-01-26T15:09:00.000-08:00

Seriously... so this whole new budget thing...the one where we don't spend any money (suck)...and can't even go to the grocery store this week (double suck) will be good in the long run. I know. But I'm telling you people, I am like an addict looking for a high.

Do you have any idea how hard it is to drive Haley home from school?

At one intersection, I have Starbucks on one side, and Target on the left.

I might as well be addicted to Crack, and have a dealer standing in front of me saying "All this can be yours."

I will stick through this, cause I got a STRONG stubborn streak (ask any one of my closest friends)... but I'm telling you, today is a dark day people. A dark day indeed.

Pantry Week. Night 2.

2010-01-25T23:19:00.000-08:00

Pantry Week continued and it was delicious. All 4 members of the family were a part of the "Clean Plate Club."
Hurray! Hurrah! Horroy!

A look at our dishes...

The menu : Grilled Turkey Sausage. Wheat Bowtie Pasta. Steamed Broccoli. Freshly grated Parmesan.

Variation on the menu : Adults had sauteed peppers/onions while the kids opted for olives.

Overall : Delicious.

Free Dinner: Priceless. (Literally.)

Pantry Week. Night 1.

2010-01-25T14:50:00.000-08:00

Since some of you have done this idea...others are trying it... I thought I would blog my experience of the week.

Here are the rules. No grocery stores allowed. If we don't have it... too bad. Must use what is in the pantry/fridge/freezer... and perhaps the orange tree which appears to be bearing fruit at precisely the right time. (A little manna from heaven if you ask me... cause you KNOW I need my fresh fruit.)

I will take pictures of what we came up with (expect nothing too exciting.) With the exception of last night. Night one. I didn't know anyone would really care, so I didn't really take any pictures.

But here's what we did.

I had 4 potatoes.

I baked them in the oven with lime juice/sea salt on the skin. (Baking potatoes in the oven is always an extra little treat).

Made fresh broccoli.

Made bacon.

Finished product?

Potatoes / Broccoli / Cheese / Scallions / Bacon / Pico De Gallo / Sour Cream.

Dessert? Orange slices & strawberries.

It was a HIT!

Today at Yoga...

2010-01-25T11:40:00.001-08:00

Have I mentioned how much I love yoga? Especially on Mondays. What a great way to start off the week!

Each time I go, I feel so much more comfortable and am having fun experimenting with all the crazy poses.

Our instructor is amazing. She is hard but also encouraging. And I like that she throws in some "Jesus Music" (as my kids would say)... it centers me, and focuses me on what is important.

Today, as the instructor was walking around the room "fixing people" (adjusting arms, legs, etc.), I was certain she was going to come to me... I kept checking my poses in the mirror, and they looked alright, but I'm new at this...so who knows. So, I kept expecting her to come over and fix me. But she never did.

I thought to myself... "hmm... I must be getting pretty good at this"... and right about that time, we switched to a new pose and I got a wiff of my stinky self, and realized without a doubt that it was my sweaty stench keeping her away from me.

Ego deflated.

Maybe I'm not so good after all. Just average. And stinky.

I am Wealthy...and introducing Pantry Week.

2010-01-24T21:18:00.000-08:00

That's what my pastor reminded me of today.

Even when I feel like I am broke. I am wealthy.

A Haitian (before the earthquake) averages $2.00 a day.
A person in India averages $1.00 a day.

I buy coffee that last for 10 minutes and cost $4.00.

I am wealthy.

But I need to do a WAY better job of managing my money. And my husband and I talked about that in great detail today...still are. But we aren't gonna mess around anymore. We are serious. We are trying to figure out ways (and some might end up being drastic) to be completely debt free and at peace with our finances.

The first is PANTRY WEEK! I love to buy fresh groceries (ESPECIALLY FRUIT AND VEGGIES), but my house has a lot of food in it, and I suggested to Curtis we try a whole week without going to the store... whatever we have right now is whatever we eat. Next shopping day is a week from today. Let's see if we can make it.

Anyone else out there working on their budget? Finances? Let's hold each other accountable.

Homecoming.

2010-01-19T21:40:00.000-08:00

It is so encouraging to see good news come out of Haiti. One of those stories came out of Oregon, when a team of women who went over on a missions trip to distribute clothes and toys to the children of Haiti. After the earthquake hit, they had quite a journey home.

But they are home. They are safe. And they are friends of my friend Jen, who posted this video of them arriving of them at the airport (on Facebook.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QOPJl-nzKM

When I watched the homecoming in the airport, my eyes were filled with tears. The expectation of the families waiting. Listening to children say, "I can't wait to see mommy." Watching the first woman run in as her kids were running to her at the same time. Tears, laughter, hugs, shouts of joy... it was all so beautiful.

And as I thought of their journey home, I started to think of it in terms of our journey home to God. For some of us, we make the decision to follow Christ. Life is relatively easy. We stay on the right path and we make it home.

For others, we choose to ignore truth for too long, and struggle all through life before we find Christ. Or perhaps, we meet Christ early on in life, and then fall away. We struggle trying to make it on our own...and then like the prodigal son, we return to Him. This particular sort of journey parallels so well with the women returning from Haiti. Their journey was difficult, from the earthquake, to the loss of family contact, to the attempts to leave the country, and the actual trip home... And as the woman said at the end of the video, "never have I longed so much for America..." I'm certain her family/loved ones felt the same way.

I can only imagine God...waiting for us in heaven (already fully aware of whether our journey will be an easy one or a difficult one)...ready to run to us with arms wide open, and welcome His children home.

Don't read my blog...

2010-01-15T12:03:00.000-08:00

Read this one: http://brazenlilly.blogspot.com/

We share the same thoughts on the Haiti crisis and our friend Kristen's journey... and her's will be much more eloquent.

If you decide not to read it... keep praying for Haiti. And in your prayers, thank God that he brought our friend Kristen home and her sweet baby Karis.

Jesus Talk.

2010-01-13T21:43:00.000-08:00

Tonight, as we (the girls and I) were coming home from a rehearsal at church, I put a cd in of one of the songs we are doing at church this weekend....

It started a very interesting conversation between us girls....

Here are some of the highlights:

H - When we get to heaven will we see Mary and Joseph?

Me - Yes.

L - They will be there?

Me - Yes.

Both girls erupt in spontaneous clapping/cheers. Apparently Mary and Joseph are a big deal.

...........

H - I am going to take my money to make the streets with. (Referencing "streets of gold.")

...........

L - Will there be food there?

...........

H - Mom, in heaven you won't be tired anymore. Seriously... you won't have any bags under your eyes anymore!!!

...........

L - In Heaven, we will get to see MaMaw Bootsy!!!!! I've never seen her before.

M - You've seen her, you just don't remember cause' you were a baby.

L - Yeah...she hasn't seen me like this.

H - I miss MaMaw Boots... she gave me jewelry and candy. I like her.

...........

H - One day we will here in the horn, and the zoom...we will go right up to heaven.

H - Mom... no one has seen the face of God. I want to see his face.

..........

And just like we were in a movie, the song on the cd was saying "We'll keep on waiting for that day.... We'll keep on waiting for that day.... and we'll sing "Holy, Holy, Holy is our God." And of course...the tears were falling down this momma's face. I love my precious children and their sweet hearts that love Jesus.

I can't move my arms.

2010-01-13T10:53:00.000-08:00

I decided to start working out. Just for kicks. And there have been a lot of kicks. Literally.

But here's the cool thing.... it wasn't a NY Resolution... it's not in an attempt to get skinny (although that would be sweet)... it was just something I thought I would try with some friends. And now I feel totally addicted. I am loving it.

My favorite experience so far is when I decided to take a class called 24Set. Only because online it said...step/weights/ and easy to learn movements. Um YEAH! I call that FALSE ADVERTISING. There was nothing easy about it. In fact, my friend showed up because she wanted to "support me." And with her sweet voice said, "just so you know, when I'm in my best shape...this class is hard for me." SWEET. Cause I am totally new to working out people.

And yeah, I was completely over my head. When I walked in, there was a swarm of tiny, in shape people stacking things, picking out weights, loading up their bars, pulling out hand weights, and I just stood there. Like a chick that has just hatched looking at the world and thinking, "what just happened??????" I finally couldn't fake it any more and had to ask for help...

There were about 6 specific times when I thought I would throw up but I made it through.

Yesterday I took a TKB class (Turbo Kick Boxing)... and let's just say I looked like a person with special needs. Seriously.

But I really like PILATES. And I really like Yoga.

Today I took a Yoga class from the same crazy lady that taught 24Set. And that was some legit yoga. Hard. But it felt good. Although each time I am in that room with a bunch of people in squat positions and various other strange positions... I keep waiting for someone to pass gas... It has to happen... there is no way to be in those positions and not let one fly at some point. In fact, waiting for that to happen might just keep me going back to Yoga.

One other thing I am struggling with is getting sweaty a lot and having to wash my hair... because ya'll know I'm a blonde. And I dye my hair brown...and I can't afford to dye it more frequently... so I am trying to figure out how to work out without sweating on my head, so I don't have to wash it very often. Any ideas?

Oh, and I can't move my arms. And my legs are mad at me. It hurts to even lift my arm to brush my teeth...or to sit on the toilet. I swear even the pores on my face hurt. But it's good. I like it.

So who's in? Let's work out together. At the very least, I can offer you a giggle. Because it is REALLY funny to watch me work out!

8:30

2010-01-10T20:29:00.001-08:00

Don't buy a cheap watch at Target.

Curtis did.

And every night it rings at 8:30. EVERY NIGHT. And we have no clue how to make it stop.

I know I will sound like a snob...

2010-01-10T19:33:00.000-08:00

And I get made fun of a lot cause of my "food rules"...

And I'm not the healthiest person I know by FAR....

But today I went to the grocery store. Actually, I went to 3. And in each one, I saw parents letting their kids decide what they wanted to buy....

Which means... I saw kids walking around with Capri Suns...Cocoa Pebbles....Pop Tarts....Oreo Cookies....etc.

And while I know that stuff tastes really good....it is just really, really bad for kids. Anything with High Fructose Corn Syrups...added sugars...additional chemicals...that's just not what we're supposed to be putting in our bodies.

DISCLAIMER : I KNOW I DRINK DIET COKE. AND IT IS AWFUL. AND NO, I DON'T WANT TO GIVE IT UP. But I'm talking about the kids....

I read somewhere this week this statement:

"If it is made from a plant...eat it. If it made IN a PLANT, do not."

This is something I'd like my family to strive for... eating WAY more fruits/veggies/natural foods... way less processed. And while I do eat food that is made in a plant, I do try to choose food that does not have any of the yucky stuff added in. I strive for organic foods and those made with whole grains.

I don't always eat organic fruit/veggies (cause I can't afford it)...but I eat a LOT of fruits/veggies and if they aren't organic, I'm careful to wash them really well.

Another quote for you...

"God made food into a God made body = God made health."

For those spiritual peeps out there... our bodies are God's temple. And if you think about God living in your body.... it definitely affects a lot of the choices we make.

Sorry... didn't mean to go all spiritual spice... Man, I'm totally on a soapbox right now. I'm sorry.

Part of me is just made at our nation for putting crap food out there...advertising it to kids... making it seem irresistible for kids...and making it harder for us parents to convince our children how to make healthier choices.

Which is why if you have little ones...teach them healthy choices now. Put food into their bodies that is wholesome and pure. Not full of junk. You will probably notice a BIG difference in their behavior.

We pulled Haley off of sugar a few weeks ago...and while that was unsuccessful because of the Holidays and other outside forces...we could tell an immediate difference when she had sugar and when she didn't. Try it with your kids...see if it makes a difference.

We can't forget that our kids are watching us and what we eat... so we need to model good choices. If we don't buy into it, they won't either.

Geez, I don't know when I became a nutritionist?!?! I think this blog probably sounds self righteous. I'm sorry if it came across like that. And I should say... I'm all about a special treat here or there...just not a continual diet of junk.

Let's protect our kids...their bodies...their future.

The Polar Express Weekend.... in Pictures.

2009-12-29T22:37:00.000-08:00

We went to Arizona.

It snowed.

We suited up.

We played.

We drove.

We had dance parties.

And cookie parties.

We went to town...very slowly.

While Lexi serenaded us.

We had some Pizza at the Hut.

And were thankful that these kiddos and their parents made it safely there after losing their 2nd pair of chains that night....

We entertained the kids and snuggled up for some pics.

Then we headed to the Polar Express.

We played in the snow some more.

Then it was time to board.

We were all so excited... even baby Peyton was looking for Santa!

Haley could hardly contain her joy! Santa was coming!!!!

But first we had to have our cookies and hot chocolate.

Tanner decided to come over and see the ladies.

And we read the Polar Express together.

Jen and Carson read it too.

Woops! Got too busy taking other pictures and forgot to keep my eyes on Lexi who decided Tanner needed some Christmas kisses.

Alas! We arrived at the North Pole!

And there is Santa!!!

Then the conductor announced that Santa would be boarding the train! I love the look of anticipation that the girls had on their faces. PRICELESS! Even now as I type this, the magic of that moment is making me tear up.

Suddenly the door opened...and Haley whipped her head around as fast as she could....

And Lexi spotted him...

"MOMMY IT'S SANTA!!!!"

"HOLD ME SANTA!!!!"

"KISS ME SANTA"

"LOOK...YOU ARE ON MY PJ'S SANTA!!!"

Santa gave each child the first gift of Christmas... a bell. If you can hear it ring, you believe.

WE BELIEVE!!!!!

Right about this point...our train broke down in the middle of nowhere... oops, I mean the "North Pole." The Conductor ran through in a flash... and someone kept trying to rev up the engine again while the "Chefs" were trying to start up some Christmas carols. After several carols (including the FULL version of 12 days of Christmas)...we got our power restored and headed back to Arizona. But you know...the craziness of it all didn't matter because we were with some of our closest friends in the world.

As we neared the station, we bundled up again...ready to head out into the crazy blizzard of 2009.

I'm serious when I say blizzard... we had to drive 20 mph...and it took us 4 hours to make the 50 mile trek back to our cabin between broken chains...broken windshield wipers...and 1 gas refill.

The girls were completely out by hour 3 of the trip home.

And I woke up in hour 4 only to find us slipping down a hill... I know this because my dashboard was lit up with the word "SLIP SLIP SLIP" over and over. Oh trust me when I say I was calling on the name of the Lord with ALL that was within me. We made it home... all of us... even though poor Kipp and Sarah ended up in a ditch and we had to go back for them... All of our poor kids just came inside the house and started crying... they had no idea what was going on. We were all just thankful to be alive.

We woke up to this the next morning. So beautiful. Actually, the word beautiful doesn't accurately describe how breathtaking I thought it was....

We waved goodbye to Arizona and 2 precious families...

We caravan(ed) home with Kipp and Sarah...which of course had to include a stop at Cracker Barrel...

And one at Starbucks...

And then back on the road towards home.

We had such a wonderful time with our friends. I feel so blessed that after all these years (We all went to college together and most of us were even roommates at one point or another)...we can pick up right where we left off...oh except, while managing 9 kids among us (one minor change since college.) Nevertheless, it was such a special weekend full of so many fun memories!

Random Christmas Post.

2009-12-25T21:55:00.000-08:00

I say that because there is nothing warm and fuzzy about this...but it's on my mind so I thought I'd write about it. (Trying to work my way back into this blog thing you know.)

Anyway. Let me pause and say Christmas was AWESOME and I'm sure I'll post some warm and fuzzy moments later...

But let's first go back to Christmas Eve.

It was busy for us.

Got to work at 12. And we had 5 services. By the 2nd service, I noticed a lovely migraine starting to pop up. But the 4th, I was sitting in a dark room popping pills trying to make it to the next service. By the time I got home, I was feeling better...but then right around 12am...something started to go awry. Combination of different stuff really...

Let's leave out the details but just say I was in a lot of pain, and spent the next 3 hours back and forth from the bed, to the bathroom floor.

I thought of two things while all this was happening...

1. Of what a complete loss of control I had over my body... like it wasn't my own. I didn't understand what was happening or why I was feeling the way I was. And I thought of my friends whose bodies are filled with cancer... and what that must feel like. And I prayed for them.

2. I thought of my husband who was checking on me and very worried about what was happening...neither of us understood exactly what was going on. And it meant a lot (especially knowing how tired he was) I was very grateful.

But today as the clouds wore off and I started to feel more like a human again... I visualized some of the things poor Curtis probably saw from me last night. There were definitely no Honeymoon-esque moments. Pretty much the complete other end of the spectrum. Being sick can be humiliating...especially when you are too sick to care about what you look like, what you are wearing, what you are doing (imagine various sick things happening here).... and trust me... poor guy got to see me in all my glory.

I'm glad he decided to stick around...otherwise Christmas morning would have been pretty lonely!

Marriage is definitely about staying committed through the "better and worse" and the "sicknesses and health.".... I'm glad my husband has stayed faithful to that.

Psycho Analyze this...

2009-12-23T16:37:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Haley got in trouble and then said....

"I am just a tiny ornament on a gigantic tree."

I didn't think I heard right...probably cause she said gigantic pronounced more like "Ji - Gantch - ic"

So I had her repeat it. And sure enough...that's what she said.

A tiny ornament on a gigantic tree. Deep stuff.

It's a Christmas Miracle.

2009-12-19T21:52:00.000-08:00

I am blogging.

But to be honest, it has been so long, I entered the wrong address. I literally could not find my blog. I had to ask Curtis what the site was.

I am lame.

But you know what's not lame? CHRISTMAS! And only Christmas could inspire me to blog.

I'm watching Fred Clause...laying by the Christmas tree...and just decided...lo and behold...today is the day.

So I'm back. But I'm keeping it short... got to work back into it, you know?

So I thought I'd share some of the excitement that happened today.

Our lists are done.

To the mailbox we go.

Yep...it's gone...

Now the wait begins to see if they've been naughty or nice.

Okay Fess Up...

2009-09-25T10:57:00.000-07:00

I was looking at Analytics that tells you how many people read your blog and stuff...

and it said that someone typed this in as a keyword which brought them to my blog....

...."shared room" sister thong stolen....

okay...which one of you had a thong stolen by your sister? the thought of that is pretty gross.

My condolences.

Good one Lex.

2009-09-23T20:55:00.000-07:00

Curtis took the kids home tonight.

And on the way home, he needed a stress relief, so he declared that they were going to spend the 10 minute ride home saying the word "POOP" as many times as they could....in any way they could...

Apparently it was a big hit and the party van was filled with lots of laughing.

Eventually Lexi said, "Dad, I am laughing so hard that the sad drops are coming out of my eyes."

Good one Lex. Good one.

Blast to the Past.

2009-09-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

I just found this on my computer... it's fun to read now that Lexi is 3 years old. Where does time go?

2 Months Old Today!!!

Today was Lexi’s 2 month Birthday. No birthday cakes or presents, but lots of hugs and love! It’s hard to believe she’s been around for two months already. We’re now getting into the hang of things and comfortable with our new lives. Lexi is sleeping well…we’ve even had about a week of sleeping through the night (8 hours). We love that!!

Last week we got back from our trip to Kentucky and West Virginia visiting family. The girls both did well flying. Lexi was perfect on the plane. And she did great adjusting to the time changes and all the traveling we did while we were there. We had a great time visiting with family and I’m so glad we had the opportunity to take the girls to meet all of Curtis’ family.

Today I braved going to the mall with the girls by myself. It was an interesting experiment. But we did okay! Right now she is snuggled up on Curtis & he just said she is snoring. When she sleeps, she really sleeps.

Haley is still doing great with her. I love our morning times together, when Haley comes running in my room looking for Lexi Mae. Every morning begins with, “Where’d Lah – Lee Mae go?” “Oh, there she is…oooo, she’s so cute!” It’s just the sweetest thing ever. She’s looking forward to when Lexi gets “big, and bigger, and bigger, and then she can play with me.” I’m looking forward to that too!

Lexi has a doctor’s appointment this Friday. It will be fun to see how much she has grown and how she is doing.

It’s been a great 2 months, and we’re looking forward to the days and months ahead.

Things I learned at the Pediatrician's Office Today.

2009-09-22T00:06:00.001-07:00

1. Every kid in HB is sick.

2. Every kid was in my doctor's office.

3. Every boy under 10 has no problem digging in his crotch.

4. After said crotch digging, every boy goes and plays with the communal toys.

5. 1 bottle of Purrell per visit is not nearly enough.

6. 14 year old girls when bored enough will read preschool aged books with titles such as "Barbie and the Prince" and "Courderoy goes to the doctor"

7. Single Dads check the Moms out.

8. More than 5 kids crying at the same time makes me crave a Zanex.

9. Applying a pig snout to your child's nose before the doctor comes in will make the doctor laugh really hard.

10. My 3 year old daughter is braver than me when it comes to shots.

Profound Words over Toast.

2009-09-19T21:23:00.000-07:00

My husband is making his nightly snack of peanut butter toast and he just said...

"Babe...you are right...we have a good life."

And I said, "Why is that?"

And then I thought I would write it down so we could remind ourselves or how blessed we are on days when we can't quite see through the clouds...

And these are his words....

We have healthy kids....
a roof over our heads....
those two alone are a dream for some people...
i can go to the gym and work out....
and i have a great dog that lays at my feet.

Okay...it may not be super deep, but he was thankful (and so am I) and I just wanted to write it down.

You should read this if you like tough questions/ideas...

2009-09-16T21:54:00.000-07:00

my husband's blog...

http://ngloriouspastor.wordpress.com/

he brings up some interesting thoughts/questions.

seriously...go ahead and read it.

Poopy Finger meet Spiritual Spice.

2009-09-15T20:52:00.000-07:00

Okay. My friends in College called me Spiritual Spice cause I would take a random moment and turn it into something really spiritual...especially after I read those Left Behind Books. Oh man, I think Jen Bunch coined the phrase (which wasn't necessarily meant as a compliment if I recall)...but it stuck.

I say all that, cause I am totally being spiritual spice right now and giving you 2 Jesus/Spiritual blogs in one day. You are welcome.

So tonight we had a case of the Poopy Finger.

Let me explain.

Curtis is gone. I'm getting the girls ready for bed. And I'm snuggled up with Lexi when I begin to notice that Haley is taking a long time in the bathroom. After questioning what she was doing, she finished up her "business" and washed her hands several times. As I was tucking her in, she told me her thumb smelled like poop. Lovely.

I smelled it. It did have a faint poopy smell. But you gotta know, my daughter has my husband's nose who has HIS Mother's nose...which has a VERY KEEN SENSE OF SMELL. Like a superhuman sense. Like if they were on HEROES, their gift would be in smelling. So it was apparently piercing her nasal cavity with it's horrid smell.

But I digress.

I told her to tuck it under her pillow or keep it away from her nose. This apparently did not work since I started to hear sobbing coming from her room.

Cue door.

Haley comes up devastated about the poopy finger. "It smells. It is so stinky. Why oh Why is this happening to me? If your finger smelled like this, you would cry too....etc, etc."

I pulled her out of Lexi's room so she wouldn't keep her awake. And this upset her so much, she calmed down and decided she would be okay. She promises me she will go to sleep...that it isn't bothering her anymore. So we say goodnight again. And I leave.

Cue door.

"Mom, it is starting all over again. It really smells."

Cue Hysterical Sobbing.

This goes on for 40 minutes. I can't calm her down. We wash it. We purell it. We call daddy. We pray. We try it all.

I finally put her in my bed to keep her away from Lexi who is trying to sleep. And she goes all out crazy. Like lock you up crazy. And I walked away. I went on the couch and just started to breathe.

A few minutes later, she came out and said "It doesn't smell anymore." I said, "Did you wash it again?" "No, I didn't. Just smell." And as I grab her hand, water is dripping off of it. "Wait, I thought you didn't wash your hand?" I ask. "I didn't! " She says. And then I just looked at her and said, "So now you are lying?" "Go to bed Haley". (Sidebar... there is NOTHING...and I mean NOTHING I loathe more than lying). I was so sad.

She leaves.

Then returns...sobbing. "I'm so sorry Mommy... I'm so so so so so so so so sorry. I feel so bad. I lied. I lied about the poop (how it got on her finger). I lied about sleeping. I lied about washing my hands. I'm so sooooooo sorry. I feel so bad. I feel so bad."

And then we just held each other.

I apologized for losing my temper with her. And then I said, "Let's go snuggle together and talk about this..."

She started telling me a story about her preschool teach at church (Cindy R) who lied when she was a little girl...and as that story was revealed, I realized she understood how wrong it was to lie. She knew what she had done. She had been thinking about it.

And curled up in my bed, with my broken 5 year old daughter, I could not help but feel the emotions of how God must feel when we come to him. When we confess our sin. When we ask forgiveness. When we admit our wrongs. When we reach out for him to hold us.

And while I held her in my arms, I could imagine how He must feel holding on to us. Wiping our tears away. Comforting our hurts. Embracing us with His grace. Thankful we asked for forgiveness. Wanting the best for us. Ready to give us a fresh start.

Haley and I had a bit of a rough hour or two tonight...but I feel like I've given God a rough lifetime or two... And yet his arms are still reaching out...still ready to hold me...still ready to wipe away my tears...still ready to offer me grace.

So I guess I'm thankful for the poopy finger that reminded me of all that.

ISAIAH 58

2009-09-15T14:28:00.000-07:00

So I spent some time this morning...reading Scripture...talking to God...listening....

I started working on a devotional from our Women's event last night...and that was good. One of the things that Amber told us was to really work on listening to God. BTW - this is TOTALLY my weakness. And if you know me, you know why. It's hard to listen. It's hard not to talk. But I want to. And I want to grow in this area in ALL my relationships.

So...I tried.

And while I might not have heard anything directly... I did wind up in a part of Scripture that was not part of my plan...and now I can't stop thinking about it. So I will take that as God leading me there...and speaking to me through Isaiah.

So get this.

We're in Isaiah 58.

My Bible calls this passage "THE PROGRAM OF GOD FOR PEACE." I enjoy peace. So I read on. The beginning part of the scripture talks about the wrong kind of fasting...basically going through the motions instead of being purposeful...specifically in the areas where the poor are concerned. And he compares this sort of fast to the fast that is ACCEPTABLE to him...

Pick it up at Vs.6 (and keep in mind this is the fast the Lord WANTS)

Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the
oppressed free and break every yoke?

Is it not to share your food with the hungry
and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter
when you see the naked, to clothe him,
and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

Then your light will break forth like the dawn
and your healing will quickly appearl
then your righteousness will go before you,
and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.

....skipping ahead to vs.11 (although you should read the WHOLE scripture when you have a chance.)

You will be like a well-watered garden,
like a spring whose waters never fail.
Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will
raise up the age-old foundations,
you will be called REPAIRER OF BROKEN WALLS,
Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.

Oh how I love this scripture...it gives such a beautiful glimpse into the heart of God and how desperately he loves his people. But he is the invisible God. We have to be his hands and feet. He is the God who is able. But He is also the God who withholds his power...because he wants us to be empowered. He wants us to show His love. He wants us to share, give, love, and bring peace into the world. He wants us to REPAIR THE BROKEN WALLS and RESTORE THE STREETS WITH DWELLINGS.

I don't want to get into politics on this blog. But it did make me ask the question... I wonder what Jesus would feel about nationalized health care? Regardless of the answer, I know what Jesus does want. He wants the church to be the church. He wants his people to show his love. He is CALLING us to give, help, and care for the needy, the hungry, the poor, the naked, the hurting. Honestly, I feel like if the government steps in, it gives the church an out. And we can't take the out. We can't ignore as scripture says "our own flesh and blood." We are called to loose the chains of injustice.

So what are we gonna do? I don't know about you, but I want Jesus to one day look at me and say, "I know you... you were a Repairer of Broken Walls." So it's time to get busy....

Haley's First Day of Kindergarten.

2009-09-09T21:38:00.000-07:00

Today was my baby's first day of Kindergarten. And to be honest, I am too tired to download all that went down...but I wanted to share some pictures (the rest are on facebook)... and write down what she told me tonight before she went to sleep.

But first...

This is how the day began...

The family waiting for Haley's class to open.

Haley and her teacher.

Haley kissing me goodbye.

If you know Haley or read my blog often, you know she's a pretty tough little girl. That being said, I know she loves me. Because of moments like this. She came to me. She kissed me goodbye.

And tonight, when I tucked her in, she pulled me close... a lot like the picture above... and said, "Mommy, I thought about you all the time when I was at school. I missed you. " And she kissed me goodnight.

I never want to forget how happy and complete I felt at that moment.

It was a hard day...but a good one.

Birthdays...Shamu....Snuggles.

2009-09-06T22:37:00.000-07:00

My Mom and Dad turned 60 this year. My mom thought it would be fun to surprise Pops on his Birthday...so we had a little family surprise dinner catered by one of his favorite restaurants...Maggianos.

Curtis is getting into the spirit of things.

The decor is set.

The guests have arrived.

Reading his card from the grandkids that Haley wrote which reads, "Papa, for your birthday we are taking you and Grandma to Sea World."

I told my mother that Jennifer (my sister) and I wanted them both to have a special memory for their 60th Birthdays. (My mom turned 60 in June)... and that made mom a bit emotional. This is where I inherited my gift of "happy tears."

At the Disney World Castle, the princesses go from table to table and take pictures with the guests. After dinner, Haley dressed up as Cinderella and went around from person to person, asking me to take pictures. I thought that was very sweet.

Lexi dressed as Belle and took a picture with Auntie Jen.

Papa and Belle.

Cinderella and Daddy.

By the time we got around to taking a pic with Haley/Emily/Lexi...Haley got a little bored with it all.

Then Snow White arrived, and asked to dance with her "handsome prince." Priceless moment.

Time for some Mini Creme Brulees.

An after-dinner concert.

Haley singing one of the songs she wrote.

.....We went to Sea World on Saturday. I didn't take to many pictures, but these are some of my favorites.

This Walrus came over to the girls for several minutes....I think he really liked them.

Walrus Hug.

My Polar Bears.

Haley and Emily...sweet kisses.

Nighttime with Shamu and the family.

Lexi got her glow on.

And if you keep track...this is the first Shamu show I have ever watched without crying happy tears. I think it had to do with Shamu jumping to "We will Rock You" instead of some sappy emotional song. Nevertheless, it was a beautiful show...even more special with a sleeping Lexi in my arms.

Goodnight sweet baby.

Sweet Snuggles after a fun day.

Happy Birthday Dad... hope you enjoyed your day as much as we did!

Free Yourselves People.

2009-08-30T21:28:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite facebook status of the day (written by one of our new vocalists at church).

I am no longer too shy to raise my hands while singing about how cool God is. This weekend's songs changed all that.

Way to go Stacy!

Have you ever been in a worship service and felt the spirit move you to raise your hands? Have you ever been worried about what the people around you might think? I have. But in those moments, I remind myself worship is between myself and God. I don't want to do anything in a corporate setting that would distract anyone else...but we must also learn to be free...to not be held back by other people's opinions of who we are or how we worship.

Or as Stacy wrote...just think about how cool God is...and let your heart do the rest.

So much for the green thumb.

2009-08-29T10:04:00.000-07:00

I waited all summer for my broccoli to sprout. It finally did. Then I wanted to wait for it to get bigger. It appears I waited to long. Who knew that broccoli sprouted beautiful little flowers.

Looks like I need to find a vase for my broccoli.

LOOK AT TRENT!

2009-08-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

I just found this picture in my email and it made me laugh.

A lot of you have no idea who this is....but if you do, it has to make you laugh.

Good times Trent. Good times.

WARNING: I'm an emotional Mother.

2009-08-25T21:58:00.000-07:00

It started at Costco.

I was so excited to be there by myself, and then I kept seeing things that would remind me of my girls and would have pangs of missing them deeply. Crazy since I had been with them ALL day....

Then I got home and was sorting through pictures...and just started crying.

This seems like yesterday....

And tomorrow morning, I am taking her to buy clothes for Kindergarten.

As a mostly stay at home mom, I spend many days staring at the clock...dreaming about bedtime...hoping time will go by quickly. And it did. Now I am looking at pictures wondering where time went.

I warned you I was emotional...but I want this written down so my beautiful, stubborn, strong-willed, creative, funny, one of a kind daughter will know one day how desperately I love her. How I want the best for her. How I pray for her and dream for her. How I know that she will grow into an incredible person...and how blessed I am that God chose me to be her Mom.

Fishing with Horses...

2009-08-24T20:11:00.000-07:00

We went fishing today at Central Park.

That's a lot different than fishing at a pond in on someone's farm in Kentucky. Let it be known...I prefer the pond in Kentucky.

Here's a few highlights of that experience...

Me and the Boyz.

Did not have such an easy time baiting the hook. I kept apologizing to the worms.... poor little guys.

Lexi on the other hand...took right to it!

Who needs a worm?

Haley's first catch...she caught 10!!!!

Lexi gave it a shot too!

Hello fishy.

Just hanging out.

Dad's catch.

Alone time...

Me and the Worm Girl.

...But I don't Want to Go!!!

Worship & Stuff.

2009-08-23T20:43:00.000-07:00

There is only so much that can be said in a Facebook status update.

So I have turned here. To think "out loud" if you will. To write my thoughts. To think it out.

And yet I still don't know exactly what to say. But here's what I know. I am passionate about worship. I get paid to be a worship leader, but sometimes I feel like I do a LOUSY job at the prep work. I know I have been guilty of taken it lightly. And yet my job is to help lead people to God...to give them a glimpse of His glory...to try to guide their thoughts and their journey for a few minutes each week. This my friends, is not something to be taken lightly.

And God kinda hit me over the head with that this week.

It's resulted in not sleeping. A lot of praying. A lot of searching.

I want for our church to grow as worshipers, but before I can help other people grow, I have to be committed to the journey myself. So this week, I have recommitted. My minds is spinning at 100 mph. I am so in love with God and I want others to be too.

I want God to stretch me. Refine me. Teach me. Mold me. I want that for everybody else too...but especially my church family. I am praying for a revolution in our church. For a harvest. One that will reach our into our community and into our world. I don't think that is too much to ask...because God is a BIG God who can DO big things...once we submit to Him and allow HIM to work through us.

Oh how I so desperately want God to work through me...and often times in spite of me.

So for those of you who read this blog who are members of my church family...I hope you will join me on this journey. Pray for our church...for our leaders...for our growth. Pray that we will be a worshiping church and God's love will overflow from our lives, from our church, and into our world.

May God give us a glimpse of His glory that will force us to our knees in worship....and may it never be taken lightly again.

Gospel for Preschoolers.

2009-08-18T09:07:00.000-07:00

While we were driving around in Kentucky...the following conversation took place between my girls. Haley (5) and Lexi (3)

Lexi: (pointing at clouds) Which cloud does Jesus live in?

Haley: (rolling her eyes) He doesn't live in a cloud, he lives in your heart.

Lexi: He doesn't live in my heart. He's not in my skin and my blood.

Haley: (exasperated)....Yes he does. He lives in your heart.

Lexi: He does?

Haley: Yes. He lives in there with God.

Lexi: Do they play together?

Haley: Yep.

Lexi: Ooooooh!

I want to remember...

2009-08-17T15:15:00.001-07:00

Time seems to be slipping away so quickly and there are moments that I want to freeze in time forever...

Today was one.

I decided we would bake cookies this afternoon. We went to the store and got our supplies. Came home. Turned on Sara Groves...who is a singer/songwriter that I LOVE. And started the process.

Eventually, Lexi got sent to bed because she kept eating the dough and then was chugging the sprinkles...so it was just Haley and I. After all the cookies were done, I put her in charge of decorating while I cleaned up the kitchen.

She was so serious about it. Decorating. Organizing. Talking to herself. I just started watching her.

She looked so precious. And in that moment, every fight, every argument, every lie, every disobedient act that drives me insane didn't matter. It was my daughter standing before me and she has never been more beautiful...more perfect.

I stopped to take a picture and then I heard the lyrics of the song playing in the background...

Loving a person just the way they are
That's no small thing...
That's the whole thing.

She went outside to eat a cookie, and I just leaned over the countertop, almost like the wind was knocked out of me, and just started praying... praying that I would be the mother that she needs me to be....the mother that God has designed me to be. That I would be patient. Love her through the hard times as much as I love her in these sweet moments. I asked God to protect our relationship....to keep us close. And to help me to love her just the way she is...cause after all, that's no small thing. It's the whole thing.

WV Pool Party

2009-08-07T21:06:00.001-07:00

We are in West Virginia. One thing I find interesting is how everyone seems to know each other here. Curtis told me it is because most people have been here there whole lives. It is always interesting when we come to town, because Bruce (my Father in Law) causes a big stir. Everyone wants to see him...find out what he's been up to...so on and so forth.

So I hear rumors about old friends of his who have a pool. Something about a girl he went to school with as a kid who had a crush on him at one time or another. But I digress. Apparently, they have a pool. And not just one of those above ground pools, but a certified in ground pool. It's kind of a big deal.

So they knew that we were coming to town and had called a few times asking where we were. Connie kept telling Bruce to call over and let them know we would come over today...but he didn't wanna (hear my accent coming through?) He thought we would just show up.

So show up we did.

We pulled up and his friend (we'll call her Charlene)...jumped up and grabbed a towel and put it over her. Then went on to tell him it's because she hasn't shaved...because of COURSE that is what you tell someone when you haven't seen them in a few years.

From that moment on, I struggled to keep up with all the goins' on....

But here are some of the highlights...

2 ATVS pulling up with a mom, her daughter, and the daughter's step-son.
- The mom is smoking. Haley tells her not to.
- The daughter is 30. Her stepson is 24.

One lady was a retired cop (who is now 60) and she asked Bruce if he remembers her flashing the school bus when they were kids. When he said no, she said, "yeah...you would have remembered if I did." Then went on to talk about how she used to work at K-MART and wear a black thong with white pants and made all the boys crazy. (REMEMBER - I DON'T KNOW THESE PEOPLE!)

This same lady asked the 24 year old stepson of her friend if he likes fat chicks...cause she wanted to get incestual with him.

Then a sweet little old lady came by from next door (who of course was Bruce's old schoolteacher) and let them borrow the newspaper. But she wanted it back, because even though it was delivered in the morning, it is the NIGHT edition, and her husband refused to read it until it was NIGHT.

They took said newspaper and looked through the yard sale ads, because of COURSE they are going yard saling in the morning...and last week she bought "fat lady clothes" at a yard sale...because yard sales never have "fat lady clothes" and she wanted to stock up. But she doesn't go to skanky yard sales because they have bad clothes.

She apparently buys too much at these yard sales though because she has 54 MIRRORS in her living room. And a door from the old funeral home...just because she wanted it.

Then we heard tales of a 7 year old apostolic boy who came up and tried to rebuke the demons out of her.

Now...these two sisters apparently throw some interesting parties, one of which had a doctor who was walking around passing out viagra. She decided to go to the doctor. And then he asked her why and she said because she thought he might know someone she could give viagra to....

One of these women also has a bowel problem. Apparently has to poop as soon as she gets the urge. And her sister said, "she has literally pooped on the side of the road in every position possible." One time she had to poop in a public stall next to a little girl and her mom. The little girl heard her drop the bomb and kept asking her mom who was pooping, and they lady felt bad so she started talking like BARNEY and said "It's BARNEY...and I have to POOP!" And the little girl and "Barney" had a conversation of the stall door for the next couple of minutes.

Okay people...I could go on and on...but I think you get the drift.

Here's what I know. West Virginia is filled with some wild, wonderful people. I fit in just fine!

BIG NEWS!

2009-08-07T20:54:00.002-07:00

We bought a new home!!!!!!

Send us a card...

2509 Middle of the Woods
West Virginia

A Weed Inspired Thought.

2009-08-02T22:19:00.000-07:00

As I was pruning my flowers today, I noticed a lot of weeds and some dying plants.

And a scripture came to mind...

The grass withers and the flowers fall,
but the word of our God stands forever.

Isaiah 40:8

Time to get into it.

Picasso.

2009-07-30T22:27:00.000-07:00

Haley has started getting up in the morning and going directly to the living room, where she pulls out all of her art supplies and has some creative time on her own.

It's really quite lovely because she likes "alone time" and mommy and daddy like "sleepy time". This is what we call a win win.

Lexi likes to begin every morning with snuggle time...so imagine my surprise when I awoke to hear two little voices in the living room...obviously quite busy.

When I came out to check on them, I didn't have my glasses on...so I relied on my hearing and I heard words such as:

Paint
Butterfly
Face

When I got closer, I saw this...

Behold... the Butterfly.
Artist...Haley Templeton

Lesson in Worship...

2009-07-28T21:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I was watching a Hillsong Video of a new song they are about to release. If you know anything about Hillsong, you know they are extravagant worshipers and their congregation is always expressing themselves outwardly.

I left the video of their song on, and I left the room.

When I came back in, I saw this...

Whatcha doing Lexi?

Lexi: Watching the moogzik.
Mom: Oh yeah?
Lexi: Why do they put their arms up in the air like that Mommy?
Mom: Because that is the way that people can tell Jesus they love him....it's like they are trying to reach out to him...trying to be closer to him.

And she sat right up and did this....

Mom: (in tears)
Lexi: I think we should go see him now.
Mom: Who?
Lexi: God. I think we should go up in the clouds and see God. I want to see his face. And Mommy.... when we are done, could he drop us back off at our house?

May we all have childlike faith...and be so free in our worship.

P.S.

2009-07-22T08:54:00.000-07:00

A picture of little Haley with the tooth that is no more. (Courtesy of Grandma who read my blog and sent me the picture.)

Emotional Momma.

2009-07-21T14:44:00.000-07:00

The first clue of my craziness happened yesterday at Disneyland. I went with my sister. We were having a lovely time over in California Adventure near the Monsters Inc. ride when Jennifer says, "Oh look...there is Sully!" And I said, "Oh Haley...you LOVED that Sully when you were a baby." And just like that...I was so choked up that I couldn't speak.

Haley was only a few months old when we first took her to Disneyland/California Adventure. She was scared of all of the characters except for Sully. Which is STRANGE...since he is the BIGGEST and FURRIEST of all. One time we went with Grandma Connie and while we were riding a ride, she bought Haley a Sully doll, which is still a big part of the family today. Well, yesterday took me right back to that moment, as if it was yesterday. Except that now instead of a 5 month old, I have a 5 year old.

Sidebar: I have tears dripping down my face right now as I type.

Back to the story...

When we got home, Haley and Lexi got in the bath. A few minutes later, I heard Curtis say, "Where is your tooth?????" And just like that, my baby's tooth is gone. And I mean REALLY gone. We couldn't find it anywhere. She didn't even know she lost it. Don't worry, after searching all over the bathroom, Curtis found it on the rug.

And admist all the joy...all the high-5's...all the "I can't believe its"... I started crying again. Crying because I remembered how excited I was to see that little tooth come in. She was 3 months old and there was nothing cuter and sweeter than her little tooth. I remember that tooth biting me when I nursed her. I remember seeing her smile her one tooth smile. And now...it's gone.

Time is just slipping by too quickly for me.

But nevertheless, I am happy because she is happy. Look how beautiful my toothless girl is...

Once the tears finally dried up, we had a fun time preparing for the tooth fairy's arrival.

Placing the tooth under the pillow (she was kinda nervous about the tooth fairy coming in and taking it while she was asleep)

But she was excited.

Making sure it was still there.

Couldn't be happier!

And good news...the fairy did come. And Haley woke us up at 6:30 am to let us know that she had brought her a DOLLAR! Wow. Lucky toothless girl!

MAJOR DILEMMA.

2009-07-14T10:58:00.001-07:00

No...seriously...This is big.

Here's the thing. I live in the land of no air-conditioning. I also live in the land of 'I need Coffee every morning to survive.'

So here are my issues.

1) I don't drink coffee until around 10 am which gives me time to have breakfast and adequate amounts of water in my system. At 10am, it is quite toasty in my house. But sadly, I am not willing to wake up at 6am to push this schedule back.

....which leads me to....

2) Starbucks iced coffees. I literally got dressed this morning to go to Starbucks and get a iced caramel macchiato. That's $3.70 My wallet can't afford this every morning people.

I could make my own iced coffees but they do not taste so good.

Unless you have any good suggestions...(stop drinking coffee will not be accepted as a good suggestion)....I think the only solution is for me to apply for the morning shift at Sbux.

Any thoughts?

Gone Fishin'

2009-07-05T00:04:00.001-07:00

Last week... my sweet, wonderful, darling husband gave me the most precious gift of all....alone time. I am borderline introverted, and if I don't have time by myself to regroup, I begin to struggle. We had been through a period of crazy schedules and consequently, I had no time to myself which means everything around me begins to suffer. Sensing that, Curtis calls me up one day and lets me know that he wants to take the girls away to the mountains for a couple of days. Can you believe it? Yeah, he is pretty awesome.

And thanks to a sweet couple of friends, Curtis had a beautiful home to go to in the mountains and Daddy and his girls had a wonderful time together.

Lexiism.

2009-07-01T00:54:00.000-07:00

Tonight, Lexi looked up at the moon and said, "Look at the moon Mom...it's cut in HALF!"

Me - Oh really? Wow. How did it get cut in half?
Lexi - God did it.
Me - He did?
Lexi - Yeah...he has a special knife that cuts the moon in half.

Who knew?

My Mom made me cry.

2009-06-29T20:57:00.000-07:00

I have the unique opportunity of being a vocal coach to many wonderful people...one of them just happens to be my mother.
This past weekend, I wasn't a part of the service, so I got to actually sit, watch, sing, listen.

If you don't go to my church, let me set the stage (if you will). There are 3 large screens above the stage, we use plasmas on the stage, and there are camera guys on the stage, a jib in the back of the room, and 3 other stationary cameras elsewhere...all trying to get the best shot to "tell the story" we are trying to tell.

There were several "stories" told this weekend, but one that was for me alone. The story of my Mom.

You see, at one point in the service, the camera man got a beautiful shot of her...a side profile, much like the one above. The song they were singing was an oldie... "I Surrender All." Here are some of the words....

All to Jesus
I Surrender
All to Him I freely give
I will ever love and trust Him
In His presence daily live...

And my mom sung it so beautifully, because this IS her story.

She has given her life for Jesus. She serves him every day by the way she loves and cares for others. She gives up her weekends to care for my kids and my sister's daughter. She has taught us (by example) to give our offerings to the church and consider it a blessing not a requirement. She has never been wealthy, but has always been rich. Her morals are of the highest standards. She cares so deeply for others it hurts. She loves her family more than anything but she loves her Savior more. And this was the story she told this weekend. This is the story she tells every day...with her life.

As soon as I saw her image, all of those thoughts came to mind...it was like my life flashed before my eyes. So many memories of my mom filling my mind all at once. And I was so overcome with emotion, I couldn't sing.

I love you so much Mom. Thank you for being such a beautiful, selfless example of who I want to be when I grow up!

Not to be outdone...

2009-06-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

I should mention Lexi....

Cause she likes to swim too....

And she's doing an amazing job!!!

Father's Day.

2009-06-24T23:23:00.001-07:00

My husband is a wonderful father. A wonderful husband. A wonderful man.

And in honor of that, I dug deep and gave him the most priceless gift I could ever give....

Mamma Mia Pizzeria....

2009-06-23T23:38:00.001-07:00

Saturday night, Laurel Baker rocked my world by bringing her homemade pizza madness to my kitchen.

Billy slicing up the goods....

My favorite...veggie with artichokes!!! Which had an encore performance today as my lunch! Delightful...AGAIN!

Laurel...you are FABULOUS! Thank you for a wonderful dinner!

A Natural...

2009-06-23T23:22:00.001-07:00

Since my last two blogs have been pretty depressing, I wanted to post something that has made me immensely proud of Haley this week. In her swim lessons, she got moved to the Olympic sized pool. She was promoted to level 9 out of 10, and her teacher keeps calling her "A Natural." I am clueless about swimming. Don't get me wrong...I love to swim, but I totally fake it. I don't know the proper way of doing a single stroke. So, though I thought she looked pretty good to my untrained eye, it is nice to have it affirmed by the instructor. She said her freestyle stroke is amazing. Her backstroke is strong (but she's got to work on her kicks.) And the next step is cleaning up the butterfly/breaststroke.

Here are some pictures from her lesson....

Way to go Haley!!!!

I HATE YOU!

2009-06-23T22:07:00.001-07:00

There is a part in the movie 'Finding Nemo' when Nemo is so mad at his dad, he says, "I hate you." Every time I have heard it, I shudder. I am not naive enough to think my kids will never say that. Whether we have been watching NEMO, or heard it somewhere else, I have always commented on how that is not a nice thing to say to ANYONE, and we should never say it. Trying to delay the inevitable, I suppose. But all the while hoping that I will never hear it.

I truly don't think there is a harsher statement that can be said.

Imagine the fury that bellowed up inside me tonight when I heard Lexi say, "You shouldn't say that" in her sad little voice. I was washing dishes at the time and immediately stopped. I went and asked Lexi what Haley said to her. And she said, "I hate you."
I called Haley's name and there was no response. Lexi told me she was hiding in the bathroom, and sure enough she was. I shut the doors and the windows (since surely my neighbors are one step away from calling Child Protective Services on me.)

I asked her if she said that, but I could see that she did by the way she was holding her mouth and looking at me. The only thing I could think to do was grab the soap. Liquid Hand Soap. And I put a squirt in her mouth. (Now, if you are thinking of calling CPS, I kindly ask you not to unless you have walked one day in my discipline mom mode shoes with Haley...because it is no small task.) I did not yell. I just calmly told her that I was washing those words out of her mouth. I can assure you, she will think twice before ever murmuring them again.

It was simply awful. I sat with her for quite a while, trying to explain the way those words make someone feel. And how harmful they are to her sister. I think she understands. She apologized to her and told her that she does in fact love her. I know that she does too.

It has been an unbelieavbly tough week for Haley. I will attribute a lot of that to change. A new home. A new roomate (Lexi). A new schedule (no preschool). It's gotta be hard. But I still expect the girls to be kind to each other. The line was definitely crossed today.

....But here is the good news. As we were going to bed, and saying our prayers, Haley volunteered. And her prayer was this:

Dear God.
Thank you for my family.
I love my mom. My dad. My sister.
Even when I make bad choices I still love them.
And I am sorry.
I love my Grandma and Papa Don.
I love my Grandma and Granddad.
And for all they do for me.
Thank you.
In Jesus name,
Amen.

Oh parenting is so hard, isn't it? But all of today's struggles seemed to melt away with that simple prayer.

Operation Shared Room: Total Failure.

2009-06-21T22:24:00.001-07:00

I am so sad. It's just not working out. The girls can't share a room. It started out so well, but after the novelty wore off, it has resulted in the same story: Lexi talking and trying to keep Haley awake, and Haley yelling at Lexi and telling her to be quiet. Consequently, the parents are losing their sanity minute by minute.

So here are tonight's events....

The girls go down. 5 minutes later...the doors start opening. "Lexi won't be quiet." "Haley this...Haley that." Curtis talked to both of them several times...threats were handed out. Tears were shed. Repeat process.

Curtis leaves.

I am alone...with two crazy kids...refusing to sleep.

I devise this plan and calmly share it with the girls:

You can talk. You can laugh. You can sing songs. But if anyone says stop, then you need to stop. If I have to come in because I hear yelling and someone is upset, or if one of you walks out of the room to tattle on the other, I take a quarter out of your bank. (Cue tears.) Good news: If you go to bed without any drama, the next day, you can get a quarter back for good behavior. And if there are 7 days in a row of going straight to bed....CHUCK E CHEESE.

They seemed to like that. And I felt like the smartest mom alive.

This lasted approximately 2:24 minutes.

It was 10:14. I was done.

I took away their sleeping friends. And warned them that spankings were next (and I HATE to spank.) But with my strong-willed, stubborn kids...sometimes, it is the ONLY thing to get through.

So guess what happens next? Yep. Spankings.

I officially feel like the WORST mom in the entire world. I hate getting angry with my kids. I feel like a failure. I am bummed that the room share won't work, but I seriously can NOT go through this EVERY night. It's not worth it. I don't know what else to do.

In the end...we loved on each other. We all cried. Apologized to one another. Hugged. Said good-night.

But I still feel sick. Just sick. I had to call Curtis (who is at the movies) just to talk it out cause I felt paralyzed....I was that sad.
My face is still wet with tears. I think what hurts the most is that we only get one chance at this, you know? And what if I am doing it ALL wrong? What if my kids are messed up because of me?

Sigh. (BIG Sigh.)

I can't get caught up in that. I really am trying to do the best that I can.

I just want to wake my kids up right now and tell them how much I love them. But I guess I will wait for tomorrow since it took half of my life just to get them down tonight.

Tomorrow is a new day. A day of changes. A day for new rooms. And hopefully an evening of much better sleep!

How Does OctoMom do it?

2009-06-16T18:21:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to Disneyland with 3 other friends of mine. Friends who happen to be moms. They each have 2 kids. After we arrived, we met up with Mandy's sister and her friend and 2 more kids. Then another mom, Metta, joined us along with her 2 kids. So to recap... we have 7 adults. 12 kids. We were outnumbered.

Oh, and Disneyland AND California Adventure were both SOLD OUT! Just what I love...a good, nice quiet day at Disneyland. Here are some highlights of the event.

Mandy with all the Kiddos.

Lexi running off with someone's drink. I don't know whose it was. Seriously.

Kayden & Haley

Midway through a Sugar High

I got stressed and turned to junk food.

Karey & Metta and their posse.

Haley entertaining the youths with bubbles while waiting for the parade.

Gracie & Lexi waiting for the parade.

And alas...

We overcame tears, fights, disappearing children, long lines, greasy food, tired babies...and we had a great time.

Green Thumbs.

2009-06-16T09:52:00.000-07:00

I don't have one.
So I called my dad over and asked him to help. Both of his thumbs are green.
We spent a fun afternoon buying soil/plants/pots and various other items and then planted all afternoon with Haley.

Proudly featured in my garden:
Tomatoes (LOTS of tomatoes)
Basil
Eggplant
Cucumbers
Broccoli
Bell Peppers

I would like to plant some carrots next. Any other ideas out there?

It's the Templeton Playhouse....

2009-06-15T15:25:00.000-07:00

Come inside there's fun inside (to the tune of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse for you preschool moms/dads)....

Anyway...these are pics of the new playhouse where the kids are spending countless hours playing restaurant and house. I'm in the process of laminating menus so the restaurant can be more official...and we're making an "Order Here" sign and "Pick Up Here" sign to place above the windows. It's a lot of fun.

Come over and PLAY!!!

Look out for the Party Van!!

2009-06-12T20:55:00.001-07:00

After a fabulous family dinner, we were driving by the In-Laws house and decided to pick them up (and cousin Philip too)...put up in the car with the music pumpin' and the kids shakin' it...and headed down to DIPPIN DOTS!

Be on the LoOkOut!!! You never know when we might show up at your house!!!

THESE DAYS ARE OVER (Warning - Not for the Faint of Heart)

2009-06-10T23:58:00.000-07:00

LEXI IS COMPLETELY POTTY TRAINED!

When I came home...

2009-06-10T21:44:00.000-07:00

this was waiting for me...

and if that wasn't enough my man told me to sit on the couch and turn on 'So You Think You Can Dance' and relax. I love him.

2 Possible Downsides of our new home.

2009-06-09T20:30:00.000-07:00

We have a big backyard.

The kitchen window overlooks the backyard so I thought it safe to clean up from dinner whilst the kids entertained themselves.

After a harmless game of playing "Auntie Jen & Emily go to Baskin Robbins"...they apparently broke out into a kitty/doggy game on the side of the house. I only discovered this after noticing wet spots in the gravel. After asking what it was Lexi declared, "WE PEED LIKE CATS AND DOGS." They really did. Pants down. Pee. Gravel. Lovely.

Secondly...I just tucked the girls in. After kissing me goodnight, Lexi told me, "Haley said when the pirates come in the room I am supposed to punch them in the face." God only knows the conversations that are going on in that room.

Next to Normal.

2009-06-08T21:35:00.000-07:00

This is a show on Broadway. I had dinner with my friend yesterday who just saw it in NYC. Then I saw it on the TONYS. Here's the website if you want to learn more about it.

http://www.nexttonormal.com/home

I WANT TO BE IN THIS SHOW SO BAD!!! It seriously makes me want to work up my chops again so I can audition for some local production a few years from now in CALI. By then I'll be old enough to play the mom!! With a few years of practice, I might have a slight chance.

Thank you Thank you Thank you.

2009-06-08T20:40:00.001-07:00

I feel like I have been walking around for the past few days just saying "Thank you God" over and over and over again. Things I am thankful for:

*Watching my kids run through the back yard laughing so hard as they play catch with Molly.
*The beautiful paint job my husband did on our bedrooms.
*The bag of oranges left on our front doorstep from our neighbors.
*The "neighborhood swings" in a neighbor's front yard.
*Friends that helped us with the move.
*Parents that helped us with the move and with our kids.
*My stove that belongs in a fancy gourmet restaurant
*The girls' playhouse in the backyard that is big enough to be a bedroom.
*The girls sharing a bedroom that is twice the size of their old individual rooms.
*Lexi is completely potty trained. (The new house brought so many blessings!)
*Spending the day with a precious friend that made hours felt like minutes.
*Having enough space to invite other mommy friends over for a morning breakfast/playdate tomorrow.
*Having a playroom.
*New washer/dryer that make laundry fun. (It probably helps that my washer sounds like a slot machine.)
*Being able to decorate with special nick-nacks that have been in storage for over a year.
*Having my favorite cozy chair back (that was living at my in-laws for a year.)
*My kids sleeping so well in the same room together (Lexi even moved to a big girl bed and doesn't get out!)
*Feeling the ocean breeze come in through my sliding glass bedroom windows bringing with it the smell of sweet jasmine flowers.
*Planting flowers/veggies/plants with my dad this week...and future gardening with the kids.
*A Garage...which means never looking for a parking space again.

I just feel at peace. And it feels so good. I am thankful. I am blessed.

Kristi in 30 years...courtesy of Heidi.

2009-06-08T10:37:00.000-07:00

A MIRACLE!!!

2009-05-27T17:04:00.000-07:00

LEXI POOPED IN THE POTTY.

WE ARE CELEBRATING YOGURTLAND STYLE...

For Heidi...

2009-05-26T22:32:00.001-07:00

You recently made a comment that no one blogs anymore...may I remind you this is my 3rd blog in 2 days?

This one is for you...

A never before seen pic of our girls. Princesses that had a little too much fun in the makeup...

Where has time gone?

Just so you know....

2009-05-26T21:26:00.000-07:00

I'm really growing tired of cleaning up poopy swimsuits.

I had to pull Lexi out of the pool twice today.

Take her to the bathroom.

Clean her up.

Wash out her suit.

Sit her in time out.

Put her in the pool for her lesson. (She lost her free swim time.)

And repeat the process.

I'm SO OVER IT... I'm losing my mind.

So sad...

2009-05-25T23:25:00.000-07:00

We watched Jon & Kate tonight.
It made me really sad.

You've all heard the stories. He cheated. She cheated. He said. She said. Whatever.

The show told us tonight all I needed to know. This couple is hurting. Their family is falling apart.

And it makes me really sad.

I've read a lot of what Kate has said about traveling....working...trying to do so much to provide for her kids. We had her speak at our church not to long ago. I know how much she gets for a speaking engagement. I've heard how much she makes per episode. I can only imagine what her publishing royalties...dvd profits...etc. are.

Obviously enough to provide for a beautiful new home. A home that they showed on the episode tonight. But it was so sad. So lonely. So empty. All I could think about was how all that "work" to provide for your kids means NOTHING if your family is falling apart.

At the end of the show, they were actually sitting together. Their body language told the whole story. They went after each other without saying a word. Both said the reason they live, eat, breathe is for "their kids."

Can I just say that when you base your whole world around your kids...everything else is going to suffer. Kids deserve our absolute best. But if my relationship with my spouse....my childrens' father is hurting....then the kids are going to hurt too.

I've been taught my whole life:
God first.
Spouse second.
Kids third.

It always feels a little weird to say that. To think it. To live it. Because it seems like the kids are getting short changed. But the only way the get short changed is when those first 2 relationships are suffering.

One only has to look at Jon & Kate to see that story unfolding.

So I hope they make it through this. I hope all of our relationships make it. Tonight just reminded me of what was important. I don't always put God first. I don't always put my husband before my kids. But I know I need to. That is how I can give my kids the very best.

Who are these people?????

2009-05-21T21:23:00.000-07:00

Alligator Golf

2009-05-17T23:28:00.000-07:00

We went golfing our last day in Florida and met some new friends....

Say Cheese....

Daddy showing the girls his moves.

Another friend...

Lexi taking a break.

Haley is quite a golfer...Smiling after her 2nd hole in one!!!

Party at the Castle.

2009-05-14T18:40:00.000-07:00

Lexi Mae...my beautiful baby girl is three years old.

It was such an awesome opportunity to be able to spend her Birthday at Disney World. I swear...I was like a Perfect Ad/Testimonial for Disney this week. I was moved to tears so many times. Just watching how magical and beautiful everything is to my beautiful girls. Haley has started to "figure things out." She knows that it isn't all real... but every once in a while, even she gives in to the magic of Disney.

But Lexi...it is all so pure, sweet, innocent, and beautifully magical to her. And that makes it beautifully magical to me as well. And with each special memory that was created, the tears were also present because I grasped how quickly time was passing...how these days won't last forever. I literally told myself to stop and breathe it all in....

Here are some pictures of her special day....May 12, 2009.

Welcome to your 3rd Birthday Party Lexi Mae....

Lexi got her Free Birthday Pass. She was pretty happy about it!

Lexi playing in Pooh's house.

Lexi was really looking forward to her birthday lunch in the castle. She told everyone she met that she was having a party in "her" castle with all the Princesses. On the monorail ride into the park, she spotted the castle and said, "THERE'S MY CASTLE." These were pictures with Cinderella before lunch. She could not be more beautiful...even I had to remind myself that this is all make-believe.

Each little girl waved her wand and made a magical wish...bippidy boppidy boo.

The girls gave each Princess huge hugs...and Haley told Sleeping Beauty, "I know your story."

She still believes....

My Dessert...Chocolate/Cream Cheese Cake.

Lexi got 2 DESSERTS!!!!

Who else gets a Parade for their Birthday???

Wow. This party is all for me?

Happy Birthday Lexi!

Lexi yelled "Hi" to every single character....especially Donald...her favorite!

Mickey & Minnie joining Lexi's Birthday Bash.

Haley sending out some love.

Hi-five for Chip.

Lollipop Love.

Check out that Templeton Mouth....pretty impressive.

Couldn't be happier.

So may beautiful dreams left to dream Lexi Mae...so many dreams.

Florida Faves 2

2009-05-13T16:34:00.000-07:00

Day 3 of Disney....

Uh..Hello. Welcome to Animal Kingdom

Beauty Salon.

Mr. Cricket...meet the Templetons.

We Found Nemo...at his Musical.

River Rapids. Lexi was SO happy to be tall enough to ride.

Pretty Girl.

Gorilla Love.

My Tired Monkeys

Florida Faves...

2009-05-12T19:40:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share a few of my favorite pics from the first couple days of our trip....still lots to download and sort through...but as I was looking through these, I decided to go ahead and post them.

It's kinda like a picture book...

Real Simple & Basic.

Just Happiness & Love.

DAY 1...
Starting the trip at Cracker Barrel. Sour Balls were purchased by my mom for the girls.

No sense of time when sippin' coke in a bottle.

Lexi and my Grandma

My Grandparents.

DISNEY DAYS
Hot Day at Hollywood Studios

Lunch at the Sci-Fi Drive In.

Toy Story Ride.

Cooling Down.

Daddy's American Idol Dream Realized...Kinda.

DAY 2 ...Flower Festival at Epcot.
My picture.

Lexi & Stitch

Pure Joy.

Our Epcot Tradition...Lunch in Mexico.

Bonjour Paris!

We Found Nemo.

Hello & Goodbye.

The Gang.

Sleeping underneath my second favorite flag....

More to Come.....

Just a Taste of God's Goodness...

2009-05-04T21:55:00.000-07:00

This will be my new kitchen on June 1st.

There's a lot going on, so I will give you the highlights.

1. Escrow closed on our San Clemente House last week. We are no longer attached. It was a short sale. We lost TONS of money but we did not get foreclosed on. God is good.

2. We decided to move out of our tiny condo (that we rented to save money in hopes to keep our San Clemente house and then changed our minds)...so we began to search for a new rental home.
2A. We found a house that we LOVED. The price was a little high for us. But the guy really liked us. We asked him to consider lowering the price.
2B. In the meantime, we found another house we liked. And put an offer in. And then just started praying. A Lot. Praying for God to lead us to the right house. After days of not hearing anything, the first home called us and offered us the house. For a lower price. In a neighborhood we love. God is good!

3. In two days...we are taking our kids to Disney World. Just the 4 of us. We are thrilled. The kids know NOTHING about it...we will surprise them Wednesday morning when we wake them up and head to the airport. We can not begin to tell you how excited we are to spend time together as a family. Did I mention God is good?

Haleyesque

2009-05-03T15:14:00.000-07:00

So I have some Vegetarian Cook books in my car. The girls grabbed them and started looking through them and asking me what they were. This conversation followed:

Me-They are cookbooks for people who don't eat meat.
H - Huh?
Me - For Vegetarians.
H - What is that?
Me - People who don't eat meat.
H - I don't eat meat.
ME - Yes you do. (Haley LOVES steak.)
H - I eat steak. But I don't eat dog.
Me - So you are not a vegetarian.
H - Yes I am. I'm a dog vegetarian.
Me- Okay Haley. You are a dog vegetarian.