lived to blog about it

"you can't have it!"

2010-12-21T17:17:00.002-06:00

i wish everyone would stop trying to steal my Christmas spirit.

i am in my new house, Christmas decorations have been up since right before Thanksgiving. we had some snow flurries last week. went to some fun parties. kids are great and i've finished all of my shopping for them. i've been listening to Christmas music like nobody's business. it just seems like a perfect Christmas season this year.

but, little things just keep trying to get me down. had a bad few days at work, one of my old highschool teachers passed away yesterday, and i can already feel Christmas passing by.

i'm going to push through and get out of this mood that work has put me into and look forward to the rest of the week.

Merry Christmas one and all!

"beach bum"

2010-09-09T15:13:00.000-05:00

We are leaving for the beach in the morning. 6 o'clock AM if my dad has anything to do with it, but we'll see about that. All he has to do is jump out of bed and throw on some clothes. I gotta get me and my two dressed, loaded, and all of our stuff packed tight in the 12 passenger van. I'll just leave it to Tiff and Mikey to push that time back...let's see, there are 5 of them to get up and going...6AM will come early for them too!

My aspirations for this beach trip are pure and simple. I want it to be relaxing. I know that may be a tall order with a preschooler and a toddler, but thats it. I just want to feel rested when we come back home.

I'm going to need all of my rest because when we get home it should be time to move into our new house! I can't wait to move in and get the rest of my furniture out of storage and start decorating!

Here's to the last hoorah of this summer...lets make it count!

"yearnings"

2010-09-03T18:00:00.000-05:00

This is just a post about "how I'm feeling, not something I"m going to act on!"

Why does God give me the urge to want more babies? I mean seriously, I already pushed the envelope with Archer, isn't that enough? Why, if He isn't going to give me a man to have a family with, won't he take away the desire of my heart to have more babies?

Talk amongst yourselves...

"falling"

2010-09-02T17:35:00.002-05:00

Summer has almost come and gone...
With Labor Day Weekend right around the corner!
I am so ready for the heat to simmer down, but where has the time gone?

"moves..."

2010-08-17T17:29:00.003-05:00

You know how sometimes you think you have everything figured and planned out? You know how you want things to play out, and you can even envision it. Well, I am at one of those times in my life, when things are going good and my plans are falling into place, and I'm scared.

The last time I remember things going this easy for me was my life before my divorce. You know, the way you felt before that big, huge thing happened and changed everything. The way you view yourself, your life, and your future. Back when everybody kept their promises and bad things didn't happen to good people.

Well, things are going good with me and the kids. I had a plan a long time ago to move into my county of choice before Ava started kindergarten, and ITS HAPPENING. Not only that, but my sister and her family are moving too. They got the realty blessing of a lifetime, and sold their current home and bought their new home within the same week! You just don't see that happening these days. So, just like we said when we were pregnant together back in 2005, we are making that move.

Remember, with being a single mom to two small children, location is key! I am exactly 8 minutes from my parents house, 10 minutes from both of my grandparents, and wait for it....

2 minutes from my sister and brother-in-law's new place!

I think I may be more excited than Mikey is, but my sister and I wouldn't have it any other way. I mean, with 5 kids between us we need each other. We are planning on taking full advantage of her fenced in back yard and my 3 acres.

But all this just makes me nervous, like whats around the corner? I know I shouldn't be thinking this way, but I just don't want to be caught off guard again and have the rug pulled out from under me! I'm gonna keep praying , and I know God will give me peace about it. This is a great time in our lives, and I don't want to spend it being a "Debbie Downer"!

So, we are busy, busy, busy updating and repairing my new place. My brother has really been awesome with everything. He has been a blessing during this whole process, because without him I wouldn't have even considered buying this home. It is really becoming a home I can be proud of. I am taking some pictures soon, and we are planning on moving in during September. I am just so very blessed right now...it just takes my breath away sometimes.

"alone..."

2010-08-03T16:48:00.004-05:00

Who knew buying a house could make you feel so alone. I had been feeling bummed out for a week before I even realized what it was that was bothering me. Maybe because last time I was buying a house I was happily married, and I had somebody to share all the excitement, anticipation, and work with.

It has been such a blessing to get this house that is more than big enough for me and the kids, and it's somewhere I can see us growing up for years and years to come. This might sound silly, but it kind of feels like a homestead to me. We've got over 3 and a half acres of land full of huge oak trees with shade to die for.

I know realistically, I'm not alone. I've got children, family, and friends but still sometimes you just can't help but want more. I don't let myself go there often, the what ifs and just maybes. But sometimes, when you least expect it, you do. Oh well, I've been saying it for a while now..."If God wants to me to find that person to spend the rest of my life with, he better just sit him in my lap, 'cause I'm not looking for him."

We will see what happens. For now, I am trying to get excited about the work I have ahead of me. Painting, renovations, and moving. The moving part is going to be fun if we can ever get there.

I will never leave you or forsake you. I'm just going to hold onto that promise and pray for peace and endurance for the task at hand.

"30 minutes of summer"

2010-06-29T18:09:00.003-05:00

Our summer fun is in full swing.

Ava is growing into a beauty with an attitude. Her vocabulary isn't as sophistocated as some of the things she tries to get across, which turns into some funny stories.

Archer is into everything, but he is leary of strangers right now. He isn't scared to try anything, he just likes mommy to hold his hand while he does it.

So far this summer: We've taken a vacation to St. Louis and Branson, Missouri. We have been on a camping trip to Tannehill State Park. We went rafting on the Hiwassee River in Tennessee. We took a day-trip to Alabama Adventure. Ava and Archer attended Vacation Bible School at our church. We've also been going to the local library for their weekly shows. And countless other things to keep us busy...not to mention working full-time!

I love doing things for the kids and with my family, but sometimes...just sometimes, it seems like I'm doing all this work for maybe 30 minutes of actual enjoyment. Does that make any sense? Like, I'm the one who can't just sit around and let things not get done. Its my own fault that I miss some of those enjoyable moments, because I'm the one packing the picnic, lathering somebody with sunblock, hanging the wet beach towels up to dry, gathering the garbage out of the van, etc. You get my drift?

But, those 30 minutes...

make it all worth it!

"Archer's First Birthday Party!"

2010-04-17T18:17:00.001-05:00

Here is the birthday boy!
Doesn't he look handsome.

My sister and I got to there early to put up our decorations.
I bought decorated sugar cookies and put a
personalized sticker on the back that said,
"Thanks for coming to my party!"
-Archer

I bought stuff on sale after Easter
and used them for centerpieces.

I also made these awesome cupcake toppers.
I used paint.net to add "Happy Birthday Archer" to each scene.

Here's the cake in all its glory.
The cake topper itself is made of wood and clay,
so we can keep it for years to come as a keepsake.

Archer's highchair, decorated for the day.
Another homemade, personalized decoration.
I really went all out with the cardstock!
Archer had this attitude for pictures most of the day. "Mommy, is that cake seriously all mine?"

"I don't really know what you expect me to do with it?" "Tastes good!"

"Mommy, are you sure this is okay?"
"Didn't you call this my smash cake?"
"Well, it's smashed!"
After enjoying cake and CLEANING UP!
We got to the presents.
Archer got a lot of help from the big kids...too much help!

Ava with the balloons.
She wanted to take all of them home to play with.
She didn't quite make it home before falling asleep.
Is my sweet boy really 1?
I think I'm in for a wild ride.

"Blog Rant"

2010-04-15T07:19:00.006-05:00

Still not feeling bloggy...what's a girl to do? I don't know why I haven't been motivated to take some pictures of projects I've done or post some adorable pictures of my kids.

What's going on with me?

I got a little bummed out when for the second time, I tried to "make my blog into a book". Over at blog2print.com, they had a new feature which allowed you to keep your pictures, captions, and text in order just the way your post looked. Well, it still didn't cut it, and it kind of busted my bloggy bubble. I really wanted to make this thing into a sort of scrapbook for years to come. I mean, maybe I'm just being a paranoid cavewoman, but what if blogger.com isn't there one day when I go to sign-in? They are a business, they could back up their bags and move on.

Should I have more faith in the blog world? Is this thing here to stay? I want my kids to have something to hold in their hands like a book, not just their I-Pad...or whatever is current for them.

Another, interesting fact about my blog-drought, I am right the opposite with my housework and busy-ness level. I have been all about keeping the house straightened up, clothes kept up, and toys picked up. Also, been doing creative things like nobody's business!

I'm going on a big vacation next week with my parents and my kids. We are tagging along with my parents on a road trip to Branson, Missouri with a trip across the state on our way out to visit the St. Louis Arch (gotta take Archer to see the Arch!)

I have some fun memories from one of our vacation to St. Louis as kids. We did go up in the Arch, road around St. Louis in a horse drawn carriage, and checked out the city. I know Archer won't remember this trip, but I think Ava will.

On another note, I am going to be closing on our new home on April 26th. Hopefully the last walk through and everything will go as planned. Big step for our little family. I'm going to have a home again. We need more space! A family of 3 isn't meant to share one bedroom. If my parents could have just added us on a couple more bedrooms in our apartment, then we may have never moved out!

This move will also put us in the school district of choice for Ava and Archer. Big decisions and changes going on in my life! I'm stepping out on my own again. Sometimes just thinking about it, I can feel the anxiety gripping my chest! I've got to get use to being alone in a house again too. I will just have to suck it up and get use to it...so what if me, Ava, and Archer still sleep in one room for awhile? If I turn my noise-maker up loud enough, then I won't hear the scary bumps and creaks in the night!

Okay, this rant has got to come to an end! See you when I see you, Peace!

"Party Prep"

2010-04-09T06:28:00.001-05:00

Archer's birthday was Wednesday, and I spent the day loving on him and making things for his birthday party this weekend! I am having his party at a local cafe type restaurant. It is closed on Saturday's, but she opens it for private parties. Our theme is "Moose and Zee" from Nick Jr. I ordered a cake topper off of etsy.com from a lady in Italy. That's right, I said Italy! I also used a lot of card stock, photo paper, and hot glue to make cupcake toppers, a banner, and personalized party favors. I've already put together the center pieces and bought the rest of the supplies for the party. I am super excited about how everything will come together. I will be posting all about it after the party! Gotta keep the party goers who read my blog in suspense.

"Archer's Visitors"

2010-04-08T06:16:00.004-05:00

Here's another of my sister's posts about Archer's first days...

Archer had tons of visitors. First and foremost, his big sister Ava.She wasn't exactly sure what to think of him at first.

But soon thereafter, she warmed right up. At one point we asked her if she wanted to hold him and she said yes, so she went and washed her hands and climbed up in her chair and said,

"Gimme that sweetheart!" It was so funny and sweet.

Huett and Sam were very hands-on right off the bat. Huett is very gentle and probably pays more attention to Archer than the other kids. He loves babies. Sam is just a little too rough for my comfort level, but he does good. Our baby better watch out!
Huett thought this was really exciting! A few seconds later he was helping to give him his pacifier when Sam stole it and put in his mouth just like it was his paci. Maybe now would be a good time to take away his pacifier.
Sam looks really mischevious in this picture. He does come by it honest, however. For those of you who didn't know, I was voted most mischevious in my nursing class. Try not to be jealous!! Notice the roughness that is about to take place in this picture... oops!

Teagan was another very important visitor. She wasn't the baby for long. She had to come meet her new baby cousin! Look at those big girl teeth!

Ava loves referring to Archer as, "the best baby brother in the whole wide world."

Aunt Jenny came to visit too! She looks natural with a baby boy doesn't she...hmmmm maybe this is a sign from the future!

We had many loving family and friends stop by the hospital to check on us and meet baby Archer. I felt loved and thankful to have so many people that care about me and my baby.

"The day Archer was born..."

2010-04-07T06:00:00.002-05:00

I didn't become a blogger until last summer, so I am going to post my sister's post about the day Archer was born. Hope you enjoy...I have been remembering those days with longing, realizing that he is very possibly my last baby, and that it has flown by WAY too fast!

So I know these pictures are long overdue, but here it is, the story of Archer's birthday from start to finish! First of all, mom, Trish, and I had to be at UAB at 5:30 AM. We arrived promptly, shortly after a questionable and possibly dangerous stop at the Pilot Truck Stop on Finley Ave. (This pregnant girl's gotta eat!) Anyway, upon arrival and check-in we find out that all of the pre-op labs Trisha had drawn were going to have to be redrawn and sent. So this leads to our first long wait(of many). They take Trisha back and leave mom and I in a nearby waiting room. About an hour later they tell us we can go visit Trisha one at a time. Mom went first for about 30 minutes. At this point it is around 7:00. I finally go back and poor Trisha is sitting on this ridiculous stretcher whose mattress looks like a puzzle with so many separate pieces that it was impossible not to fall into the cracks. I will not insert a pic b/c I don't think she wants that image surfing around the internet. Anyway, a friend of mine happened through the operating room, and I asked her what the hold up was b/c the admitting nurse gave us the impression that we would be seeing the baby in about 1 hour(now it is approximately 8:00). She told me that Dr Joiner(Trisha's doctor) was in L & D waiting for a patient to deliver and then after that she had to go see a patient in a clinic at the VA hospital and that then she would be back to do Trisha's c-section. GRRRRRRRR! We were already anxious and then all of this waiting. So long story short, 4 and 1/2 hours after we got there, Baby Archer was born at a healthy 8 pounds 9 ounces at exactly 9:52 AM!

I got to go in the operating room and take pictures! This is his first one and boy did he come out screaming! He looks just like Ava in this picture. I got to go into her delivery too and got almost the same shot.

This picture was just seconds later on the bed. He cleaned right up. He also pinked right up too which is a great sign. His apgars were 9 and 9 for all of you medical personnel out there.

This is his first picture after his first bath. I got to give him his first bath! That's just one of the perks of working here! Cool huh?!? These pictures taken during this time were the only ones with eyes open for about the first 3 days.

This is the first picture of mommy and baby when she returned from surgery. So sweet!

"Too soon..."

2010-03-31T18:38:00.002-05:00

This sweet boy turns one next week!

This was a picture from the day he turned 6 months.

"busy busy bee"

2010-03-29T10:38:00.004-05:00

It's been too long since I've blogged about anything...I had a case of the blog blahs. Anyway, I hope to get out of this slump and back to blogging soon.

It isn't that I haven't been busy. I finally got to shop at my fave consignment sale of the season, I've got a contract on a house that is scheduled to close before April 15, Easter is a week away, and Archer's big "one-year bash" is in less than 2 weeks!

Also, I have been busy doing some crafting projects...painting flower pots, embroidering shirts for the kids, making a cute Easter bowtie, making Archer's Easter basket to match Ava's, and working my way through 3 boxes full of material swatches given to us by our local furniture store!

Not only that, but this weather has been great! We have been outside a lot this weekend. Archer has crawled all over the back yard. I wasn't sure what he would think about crawling in the grass, but he doesn't mind it.

Archer has started walking some...still crawling the majority of the time, but I think he will be a commited walker by his birthday party!

Back to blogging with a purpose soon!

"Eighty Years Young"

2010-03-19T17:11:00.021-05:00

Here's my NaNa's birthday party pictures I promised.

It turned out to be even better than we imagined.

The weather was beautiful, the food was scrumptious,

and NaNa had plenty of friends and family to celebrate with.

We couldn't keep the kids out of this fruit tray.

Everytime I turned around, they had another handful of grapes!

We went with a spring theme,

with bright and soft pastels and spring flowers.

We used a long row of tables down the center of the room,

surrounded by round tables on either side.

We wanted to add something special that represented NaNa,

so we made these cards and quoted

some of her favorite memory verses and sayings.

She taught us to quote this verse from an early age!

When someone asks NaNa how she's doing,

you can always count on her to say,

"I'm blessed and highly favored of the Lord."

Now that stops some people in their tracks and gets them thinking.

After most of the guests had arrived,

NaNa took the center stage for an impromptu speech.

Trust me, you don't have to twist her arm to get

a good word/testimony out of her.

She laid it on us, and then thanked us all for coming.

My NaNa is a character thats for sure!

Here's NaNa posing with her beautiful cake.

Here's a shot of the crowd enjoying their refreshments.

Now, here's a picture of the cutest man at the party.

My dad and Teagan

Huett and Ava pausing for a picture.

They ran around the entire party!

Archer enjoyed getting to eat some big people food.

Me and my kids.

Everybody wanted to see Archer taking some steps.

He wasn't cooperating,

and ever since he has rebelled against trying to walk anymore!

Here's the extended family...

Chad, Jenny, Taiden, and Teagan...

Mom and Dad...

Tiffany, Mikey, Huett, Sam, and Charlie...

Me, Ava, and Archer

My NaNa is the oldest of 7 siblings.

They are all still living it up, Hodgson family style!

One of my great-uncles just had open heart surgery,

so he didn't make it to the party.

Ava had to stick around and help clean up with the rest of us,

so she got to be the one to let the balloons go.

She wanted them to take her away, but it just didn't happen.

I hope I have as much loving family

as NaNa does to throw me a big birthday bash

when I turn eighty.

Oh what the heck, I'll settle for just a cake!

"Come on, Vamanos!"

2010-03-16T13:02:00.031-05:00

We went to the McWane Science Center

to have dinner with Dora and Diego.

Here are our pictures from the night.
If you are ever in Birmingham, Alabama I highly recommend it!
After we got our tickets, we went upstairs to have dinner.

These are the items you get
to help you with your scavenger hunt.
A trusty compass and magnifying glass.

There was a long line to get food,
but the kids were able to play nearby while we waited.
Does anyone remember this scene from "Big"?

Trying to intimidate the scavenger hunt competition.

Dinner included caesar salad, macaroni and cheese, fruit salad,
chicken fingers, cheeseburger sliders, cookies, and drinks.
It was perfect for adults and kids alike.

My brother and his family.
Chad, Jenny, Teagan, and Taiden

My sister and her family.
Tiffany, Mikey, Huett and Sam

They have a new preschool area.
These are some pictures of the new stuff.

I just liked this picture, because I am a nurse you know!
Watch out!
Sam is behind the wheel.

How can I help you?
Teagan
The other preschool area is really cool too
It's called, "Just Mice Size".
Everything is oversized.
Flowing water activity table.

Puzzle anyone?

Meow...watch out little mice!

We did a little role playing.

I was Ava's alien captive who she was going to have for dinner.

I escaped.
Bed of Nails!

Princess and the pea, this was not. And finally, after playing through the McWane Center,

We made our way back up to see Dora and Diego.

Ava wanted to sit by Diego instead of Dora...go figure!

What a fun night we had. A very unique experience. It was great to go through the exhibits and play areas without having huge numbers of people crowding you out. Usually there are large groups of churches, preschools, or field trip students.

I also got to hold my new niece Taiden for the first time. She is two and a half months old, but they are sticklers about not doing much with baby until they are pass the two month mark. Its kind of a bummer, but I wasn't going to be the one to go over there and get that sweet baby sick. Anyway, it was worth the wait. She is just precious!

If you get a chance to go to something like this in your area, I highly recommend it! We had a fun, family time. Archer would have enjoyed it, but I left him at home with my mom this time. I had my hands full trying to keep up with Ava all night long anyway!

"A Day in the Life..."

2010-03-15T06:30:00.000-05:00

A day in the life of these two.
I never know what to expect out of them.

For certain, they love each other!

Archer is taking steps now.

Ava is his biggest fan and coach!

Blessed beyond belief!

M.E.

"Finally a Snow Day"

2010-03-14T12:50:00.006-05:00

I just found these pictures on my mom's camera. I had to work the day it finally snowed and put some inches on the ground! This is a picture of Ava playing outside while the snow continued to fall. We ended up with 1-2 inches.

My mom said that Ava played outside for over two hours. Never complaining about the cold. She has on a pair of my mom's isotoner, leather gloves and they make her hands look huge! When my dad got home from work that night, he helped her make this snowman...if you want to call it that. They didn't have anything to make it a face, so they just left it like this. It was out in the backyard for the rest of the week, melting one snowball at a time. I didn't get home that night until almost 8 o'clock, so we didn't go back out that late. The next morning, the ground was still covered with snow. Me and Ava went on an adventure walk around the neighborhood. We had such a fun time jumping over the little creeks, breaking the frozen water puddles, and just enjoying being outside playing in the snow!

I'm so glad we got some snow before this winter season was over. Now, I'm getting ready for the spring time fun.

2010-03-13T13:23:00.003-06:00

Party Prep for NaNa's 80thBirthday Party

Her party starts at 4 o'clock today, and everything is really coming together. I'm about to go get ready, then get the kids dressed for the party! I will take pictures to post later.

"Musical Madness"

2010-03-11T18:04:00.018-06:00

Wednesday night, Ava and I had our date with the Wizard of Oz. She was so excited about going to see this show she couldn't stand it. She kept saying, "Not the movie theater, the musical theater."

The show didn't start until 8 o'clock, so we were in for a late night. I picked Ava up at lunch time from preschool so she could take a late, long nap. We left the house around 6:15 because we had to make a stop for snacks.

Here she is posing beside a waterfall outside of the theater. Her excitement level was at an all time high! I got a lot of interest and compliments about Ava's peasant dress. It you like it, you can check out my Aunt Judi's etsy shop.

I just wanted to throw in a picture of her hair from the back. We got a lot of comments that night about her hair. I usually do a french braid that wraps around her head to a side ponytail, but this time I tried a twist instead. It turned out really nice.

Ava looks really sad in this picture
because I had just told her she
couldn't get her face painted.

I changed my mind, and here we are standing in the face paint line. It just happened to be family night at the theater, so they had a booth of kid friendly things set up outside the theater. Everything was free for the kids to do while they waited.

The lady doing the face painting was super nice and accomodating. The children could pick who they wanted their face to be painted as. I thought Ava might say Dorothy(just some glitter, eyeshadow, and blush) or the fairy god-mother(glitter, swirly things, and blush), but NO. She told the lady she wanted to be the Wicked Witch(puke green face with black accents all over!) She did give Ava some gold glitter so she could get her glitter fix!

This is Ava's "wicked witch" face.

The show started right on time. Wonderful props and costumes. It was so cool how they made it look like Dorothy's house was twisting in the tornado. The effects and pyro-dynamics were impressive.

I kept Ava entertained during intermission with her snack of choice...jelly beans. I would give her a handful, and then we would try and figure out what flavor it was. She would then eat said jelly bean and confirm or deny our speculation. It was funny, because she was very adamant about the flavor she thought it was.

Ava was attentive to the show throughout. I think she laughed the most at the Cowardly Lion, Scarecrow coming in at a close second. Toto was a real dog, and he did a great job. When Glinda, the Goodwitch of the North came floating above the stage in her "magic" bubble, we were really impressed! At the end when the Wicked Witch is trying to catch Scarecrow on fire, Ava looked at me and said, "She almost got him!" I was just so proud of my girl.

After the show, it was raining outside. We had brought our umbrellas with us, because we knew that was a possibility. Ava was so proud to be walking along side me with her very own umbrella. I think she liked this as much as the show itself. After getting her face painted, she thought she had to make her "wicked" face for every picture!

The show ended at 10:30, and we were in the car driving home by 11:00. Ava was asleep within 10 minutes of pulling out of the parking lot. She had really outdone herself.

"Chicken Noodle Soup"

2010-03-11T09:09:00.002-06:00

We had some wonderful spring weather this week.
But, after today its going to be gone for awhile.
Its been yucky, cool, and rainy all day today.

This recipe is great for breaking the
stormy blah, blah, blahs!

What you'll need:
1 bag of wide egg noodles
1 large bag of Tyson, roasted and diced chicken breast
1 large can of cream of chicken soup
8 chicken bouillon cubes
10 cups of water
Salt and Pepper to taste

Bring water and chicken bouillon to a boil.
Add noodles and boil for 8 minutes.
Add cream of chicken and bring to a boil.
Add chicken and let simmer for about 10 minutes.
Add Salt and pepper to taste.

This recipe was so much tastier than I thought it was going to be. We had NO leftovers! Next time, I am going to try adding green peas and carrots. Another easy, ready to mix together recipe.

"We're off to see the wizard..."

2010-03-10T08:51:00.002-06:00

Tonight I have a special date with a very excited little girl.

Ava and I are going to see the "Wizard of Oz" the musical.

"KidsMarket Receiving"

2010-03-09T12:20:00.004-06:00

Saturday morning was the contributors sign-up day for the consignment sale I participate in. For years now my sister and I have been doing whatever it takes to be part of the first 250 shoppers. This year was no exception, just a little different.

My sister had to work, so in her place she sent her husband, Mikey. Not just Mikey, but our friend Lisa also has a new baby, and she sent her husband, Glazer. So, it was me and the guys. Now, let me tell you to what lengths we go to be able to shop early.

I pulled out of my driveway at eleven o'clock AT NIGHT. Driving my dad's 12 passenger van, I went and picked up Mikey. He said, "I feel like we are doing something mischevious." Then we picked up Glazer. While loading his pillow and blankets into the van, Glazer said "I guess this means we are getting old."

In the past when I've went with my sister, we have fun working on our items, getting something to eat, and just laughing our heads off. This time was just totally different. We signed in at midnight taking #96,#97, and #98.

We decided to go get something to eat before we settled down for the night. We went and ate at the Purple Onion. I had forgotten how many people are still out and kickin' it in the middle of the night. The place was covered up the whole time we were there. We joked about which of the people dining around us were also contributing to KidsMarket...the drag queen, the fraternity boys, or the cowboy dressed in black.

When we got back to the parking lot, we found a place beside the curb so that we could unload our larger items out beside the van to make room for the air mattress. That's right people, we took out two benches worth of seats so the boys could have room for their air mattress. I gracefully took the bench for myself. When Mikey finally figured out how to get the air mattress to blow up, we were in business. Words cannot describe the sight of them getting cozy all wrapped up in their quilts. It was just precious.

We were asleep by 1:30, but we had to get back up at 3 o'clock for a roll call. The boys accused me of doing a little snoring, but I'm not sure I believe them. We got back to the van to get more sleep, and thats when the misery started.

Mikey is notorious for snoring, but I hadn't heard him earlier, so I thought maybe, just maybe sleeping on an air mattress agreed with him. I was wrong, W.R.O.N.G., wrong! He snored and never stopped, not just that, but it was freezing in the van. I was bundled in my quilt trying not to let any cold air under my covers. I wanted to knock Mikey in the head, but that would have meant I would have had to get up to reach him. I don't know how Glazer was sleeping through it.

Those 3 hours felt like they were never going to end. I was so glad to see the sun that morning. By 5:45, the sign-in sheet was up to # 345. We lined up at 7:15 to take our stuff in and we were out of there and headed home by 8 o'clock. Some of those poor souls were going to be waiting all day for their # to come around.

I signed my mom and sister-in-law Jenny up after the 3 o'clock roll call, so they just showed up that morning to turn their stuff in. I know it was kinda cheating, but my mom was at home with my kids, so I had to do it!

Some people may think we have lost our minds for doing this, but I think its worth it. I get all the clothes, shoes, accessories, and whatever else I could possibly need for the kids that season. And, in all honesty, we had a fun time.

I'm ready to trade the men for the girls next time. Or, I'm going to have to find some poor sucker who loves me and my kids enough to tough it out in a van for the night...all for the sake of a great sale.

We will be shopping in a few weeks, and I am so pumped!

"He's a brave one"

2010-03-02T06:26:00.001-06:00

This sweet boy is going to be walking soon!

"101 Dalmations"

2010-03-01T07:48:00.013-06:00

Shame on me. I did NOT wait 2 months to post about Ava's first musical experience. Back in January, we went to see 101 Dalmations, the musical featured in Birmingham's Broadway Across America series. The theater is older, but it is cool none the less. Check out these fiberoptic lights that were hanging overhead. Look at those 3, I can just picture them in the future as adults...it takes my breath away!
We weren't allowed to take any pictures inside the theater, so we got our last shot before we went in. I was disappointed, but not the same reason I was here.
The show was great...fun-filled entertainment from beginning to end. The music was upbeat and grand. Everything you want a musical to be. When we were leaving the show,
I asked the kids what they thought about it.

I asked Huett, "What was your favorite part?"
He said, "Nothing."
I asked Sam, "Did you like it?"
He said, "Nah."
I said, "Ava what was your favorite part?"
She said, "Everything."
That just shows you some of the differences between boys and girls. The boys were ready to go after the first couple of songs. The show held Ava's attention from beginning to end, she even changed her mind about making a bathroom run because the music started playing. At the end of the show, when everyone stands and claps for the cast, Ava sprang to her feet and clapped. She even threw her fist up in the air in some kind of celebratory fashion. She was just so into it! I looked over at Tiffany like, did you just see her do that?

Now, for my take on the experience...theater going with preschoolers. The tickets themselves could have been a lot more, but I had a promotion code to receive 50% off the price. So, that brought the total down to $30 a ticket. That sounds pricey, but you have to think about it like this. There wasn't any great big stands full of merchandise or snacks. There was one small stand selling t-shirts, but we bypassed that. Also, you could bring your own snacks for intermission! My purse was loaded down with some cookies, candy, and drinks. I'm pretty sure I spent less money on this trip than I did our trip to Disney on Ice.

It was such a great experience. Maybe Ava will have a future in theater. I just like opening these kind of doors for her. She talked about the show for days. She even sat down at my mom's tiny little kid piano and started playing and singing, "Cruella De-Vil, Cruella De-Vil, if she doesn't scare you nothing will." So cute and priceless!

Wizard of Oz, the musical....here we come in a few weeks!

"Apologizing to a 4 year old"

2010-02-25T11:07:00.003-06:00

Ava doesn't wear pull-ups anymore, and she has few and far between accidents. I've got one of those plastic pads that goes under the sheet on her side of the bed, so it isn't that big of a deal, just changing of the sheets.

So, in the middle of the night she wakes me up and says, "Mommy feel of my leg." She has wet the bed. I got up and got the stuff to clean her up and change her pajamas...trying to do this in the dark to keep from waking Archer up.

I was fine with changing her, but then she wanted to start talking and I got ill. I was telling her to be quiet, and then guess what happened...Archer woke up! I couldn't get him to go back to sleep, so I had to put him in the bed with us too.

This all took place around 4 o'clock in the morning, and I had to get up at 5 o'clock for work. I know I should have been more patient with her, but I just wanted to go back to sleep for a little while longer! After about 10 minutes, Archer was back to sleep. I thought Ava was too, when she said, "Mommy".

I looked over and said, "What?"

She said, "I love you."

Guilt Trip! I felt so bad for the way I had been talking to her. Don't think she didn't know what she was doing either. She is one smart cookie. I told her I loved her too, and she went back to sleep.

This morning when I called to check on her before preschool I told her I was sorry for being mean to her. She didn't say anything. I asked her if she was mad at me and she said "Yes, for 3 days!"

Talk about holding a grudge. I got her down to 2 days, and she said maybe 1 if I was good when I got home tonight. What a funny kid!

"On your mark, Get set, GO!"

2010-02-24T08:02:00.003-06:00

Today I go to my first consignment sale of the season!
I am so very eXcItEd!
I wish I could say I know exactly what I'm looking for,
and that I will shop within my limits.
But, thats no fun and I'm pretty sure
that I will buy more than a few things they don't need.

Let the shopping begin!

"Not Me Monday"

2010-02-22T11:27:00.010-06:00

On Saturday, I didn't go with my mom to pick up her B.R.A.N.D. new babylock sewing/embroidery machine. We didn't spend all afternoon trying to figure it out, and we didn't ruin approximately 3 kid shirts and maybe 1 bib. Our crafting projects are always right on and turn out perfectly precise!

While my mom was busy at the sewing shop, I didn't take Ava and Archer to the nearby park where EVERYBODY and their mamas showed up to have some outside fun. I did not get sUpEr eXcItEd thinking about how great this spring and summer is going to be with Ava and Archer at these ages.

I didn't invite a couple of Ava's cousins, Mary and Grace, over for the afternoon so she would have some entertainment lined up so I could focus on our sewing endeavors. They didn't spend all afternoon playing in the backyard enjoying that great weather.

Archer did not break out in a rash that by bedtime had spread from head to toe. We weren't up all night with his crazy thrashing around and jerking. Our pediatrician's office was luckily open on Sunday morning for a few hours, so I was able to take him in to see the doctor. Just the blasted 'ol roseola virus. We missed church on Sunday because of Archer's rash, but we didn't waste the great weather. We all ate lunch at my mom's and spent the afternoon playing outside.

I didn't get my kids down for their nap, selfishly, because I needed some rest too after my miserable night with Archer! I use their nap time as a time to catch up on my motherly responsibilities; such as laundry, cleaning house, preparing meals, etc.

I didn't wait until Sunday night to finally get started straightening my house up. I wouldn't put that off for days, maybe even a week...my house is always clean. You know my motto, "Everything in its place..."

I am NOT extremely lucky and blessed!

I am NOT in love with my two precious babes!

"Outnumbered at the Library"

2010-02-21T06:45:00.000-06:00

Last week, me and my mom were feeling adventurous or cRaZy...the jury is still out. Since the kids were out of preschool on Monday for President's Day, we decided to take the kids to the library. My sister had to work, so we had my 2 and her 3. Thats right, we were outnumbered by 3...all 4 and under!

We got everyone up and dressed. Loaded up in my dad's 12 passenger van, and made our departure. We stopped at the gas station on the way for snacks. We weren't sure if the library would be open since it was a holiday, but they were.

The kids had a good time reading some books, playing dress-up, playing with the toys, and just exploring. My favorite quote of the day came from Huett. We had been at the library for probably 30 minutes when he looks up at my mom and says, "GranGran, when are we going to go to the library?"

Somehow in the excitement, he didn't realize we WERE at the library. Silly boy.

This is the only picture I managed to snap while we were there. I wish I had gotten more!

After, we went for lunch at Chick-fil-A which is usually the best place for us to go with the kids. We didn't think about all of the extra people being there because schools were out. There was too many kids in the play area to begin with, and then 3 teenage girls busted up in there like they had any business in the children's area! Some lady got onto them, but they just ignored her. My mom promptly got the kids out and to the table to eat. I thought they would put up more of a fight about not getting to play very long, but they don't like it when there are too many big people in there either.

We managed, but don't think we didn't get some looks like, you've got your hands full!

Our last stop was to...wait for it...Target! We just can't seem to go anywhere these days without making a stop at Target. I had Archer and Charlie in my buggy, and I was running out of room for stuff while I was shopping. Everytime I leave Target I feel like I'm becoming a hoarder, because I buy this stuff on sale thats priced great, but I'm not sure I have anywhere to put it right now! Oh well, I'm not that bad!

When we got back home, it was nap-time for my little bunch. I L.O.V.E my babies when they are napping peacefully! My kids play hard, and they sleep hard!

"Six Word Saturday"

2010-02-20T13:45:00.004-06:00

lucky mommy playing outside with babes!

"Valentine's Party"

2010-02-20T06:15:00.002-06:00

Maybe if I was in some sort of relationship, I wouldn't have wanted to host a Valentine's Spend-the-Night Party for Ava and my two nephews Huett and Sam. But, I'm not and truth be told I got pretty excited about this little party. Archer was home too, but he went to bed pretty early that night, so he missed most of the fun.

Here's Ava in her shirt I made for her on my mom's machine, with her cute frilly skirt. Oh, did you notice the ladybug antennas? She added that herself.

This was Ava and Archer's little Valentine goodies.
Here is my Valentine decorations documented for the world to see...did I go overboard?

Disclaimer: The stuff made out of card stock didn't get put out until the afternoon before the party, but I kind of wish I had had them out all month. I didn't know I could get so crazy with cardstock, scissors, and some tape!

Some of our Valentine refreshments...

Last but not least, my personal favorite...

While the kids were winding down from their play time, we snacked on some popcorn.

Then, we pulled out the couch bed which led to jumping on the couch bed, and then jumping OFF the couch bed onto all of the pulled off cushions! They even played hide and seek under the couch bed. It was like their own little play-yard inside!

We watched Charlie Brown's Valentine and the Wonder Pets Save the Love-bugs. It was a lot of fun.

I don't know if I would put this much time and effort into doing fun things like this for the kids if I was in a relationship or married again. It feels good to make these kind of memories with them. So, my Valentine's Day wasn't filled with candle-light and roses...just night-lights and little people.

"Chicken Tortilla Chowder"

2010-02-19T09:37:00.010-06:00

During the week, my family, my mom and dad, my Nana, and my sister's family eat together 2-3 nights a week. So, that means when its my turn to cook, I am cooking for a lot of people. So, I am all about finding something that tastes yummy, but isn't too hard to make.

My mom found this recipe in a newspaper that my grandmother brought over.

The great thing about this recipe is that you are starting out with a bunch of stuff thats already cooked. Its a semi-scratch recipe. We even used Tyson's grilled and diced chicken breast thats ready to be heated!

Have a look at this ...

Chicken Tortilla Chowder

2 cans cream potato soup, undiluted (10 3/4oz. cans)
2 cans cream of chicken soup, undiluted (10 3/4oz. cans)
2 cups milk
1 can chicken broth (14 1/2oz.)
1 can mexicorn, drained (11oz.)
2 cups chopped, cooked chicken
1 can chopped green chilies (4oz.)
3 flour tortillas(8 inch)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

In a large saucepan, heat the soups, milk and broth, stirring frequently. Add corn, chicken and chilies; bring to a boil.

Cut tortilla strips into 2 x 1/2 inch strips. Or, you could just tear them to pieces like my sister is doing here.

Stir in the tortilla strips. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered for 5 minutes. Stir in the cheese until melted.

Sprinkle each serving with extra cheese and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Not desired in this case...

A BIG F.Y.I. the pictures reflect this recipe doubled! Remember the afore mentioned masses I was feeding! Another minor change I made to the recipe was to add 2 more cans of corn and some extra tortilla strips.

I hope somebody will be cooking this for their family this weekend. Or, you could just go ahead and stock up on these ingredients to have on hand whenever you need an easy go-to meal.

"Where do we go from here?"

2010-02-17T13:08:00.004-06:00

Ava has been caught up in heaven, dying, cemetaries, and the finality of it all. That is my adult way of putting it. She has her innocent, child's view of it all. Ever since my "B-I-L" Mikey's grandfather died back in the fall of '08.

She felt like he was her "Popeye" too. The conversations are always mixed with a little silly, but lately she has started getting a little sad and scared about it too.

She use to just kid about Popeye coming back in a hot air balloon or her riding to space in her rocket ship to visit him. She sometimes out of the blue will tell me she misses him. Last weekend we stopped by Mikey's Aunt Michelle's house and when we were leaving Ava said, "Poor Aunt Chelle". I asked her why, and she said "Because now she is all by herself since Popeye went to heaven." I assured her that Aunt Chelle had plenty of family and friends that are always visiting her, but it still just tugged at my heartstrings.

Her thoughts about death and dying are changing lately. Now that she realizes that people who die really aren't coming back, she has started saying things like, "I am not going to heaven." And, "Mommy I never want you to go to heaven, ever!"

She is scared of the thought of the people she loves not being with her. Well, so am I!

I want to reassure her that when people go to heaven, it is so great, that they don't want to come back. But still...she's 4 years old...thats hard to wrap her head around. And the truth is, I don't ever want to be here on earth without her, but even that scenario means that she will experience one of the greatest heartaches known...losing her mom.

Her little innocent comments have gotten me all stirred up. I know as she gets older her understanding will grow and change, but how can I take away the fear of death and dying? Truth be told, it still scares this 30 year old mom too!

"Love who?"

2010-02-15T09:00:00.000-06:00

Easier said than done...

"ribbon"

2010-02-13T08:57:00.002-06:00

I need some ideas for this...

"Happy Heart Day"

2010-02-12T07:24:00.004-06:00

I wanted to do something cute for Valentine's Day for Ava to pass out at preschool and Sunday School. I followed Dana's tutorial on her A.W.E.S.O.M.E. blog, which just happens to be focusing on boys this month.

They turned out sUpEr CuTe...if I do say so myself. Yes, it was kinda time consuming separating 4 bags full of M&M's, but a moms gotta do what a moms gotta do!

Archer is going to steal a few hearts Sunday in the nursery when he gives his Valentine cards to his teachers.

Happy Valentine's Day Everybody.

"Keepin' my eyes open"

2010-02-11T09:07:00.003-06:00

The bank took the other offer on the house.

So, I guess I will just have to keep looking!

"It all comes out in the wash..."

2010-02-11T08:40:00.000-06:00

When I came back from getting Archer to bed,
this is how I found Miss Ava Claire...

When I asked her what she was up to she said,
"Ooooh, just washing a few dishes."

She said,
"Doesn't this fork look so nice and sparkly?"

It doesn't take much to make her happy!

I wish washing dishes made me this happy.
She sat on that stool for a good 30 minutes washing.
See what this cold weather is doing to the kids.
We have got to get them out of the house!

"A-V-A craft"

2010-02-09T14:07:00.011-06:00

Friday night, I couldn't sleep and I was feeling crafty. So, I remembered that I had bought these cardboard letters at Hobby Lobby back in the day to do something with. I gathered up some paint, and got busy.

I wasn't sure what I wanted to do with them, but you can't mess up with pink, green, and white polka dots. I know they are a little played out, but I still love polka dots.

That was how I left it Friday night. Sunday afternoon I finished the project by repeating the process on the other sides. I decided to place the letters on Ava's "turn-table wardrobe" thing I bought her at Target. Since her name is a palindrome, it worked out great. I used two-sided sticky tape to keep them in place. She thinks it is pretty "awesome"!

"Trust and Obey"

2010-02-08T10:45:00.003-06:00

I renewed my dedication to church and tithing yesterday.

I've gotten lazy when it comes to getting the kids and myself to church when we need to be. We routinely make it to most Sunday morning services, but we don't always make it to Sunday School. And you can forget about us going to Sunday night or Wednesday night services.

I haven't been faithful in my tithing the way the bible teaches us to be. What I have was given to me by God, and I am just getting back to giving him what already belongs to him.

I am trusting his promises that he will take care of us.

I went to church last night for the first time in years, and I really enjoyed it.

Also, growing up we went to church "everytime the doors were open". If I keep haphazardly attending church the way I've been, then my kids probably won't think it is important to go at all! I can't be the reason that happens!

Trusting and Obeying in Him...

"10 months"

2010-02-07T16:51:00.004-06:00

Archer is 10 months old today!
He just keeps getting sweeter.
He's a lovable, huggable guy!

He can get anywhere he wants to go by crawling. He pulls up on anything and everything! He recognizes his name. He says "Ma-Ma-Ma-Ma" when he sees me. I'm almost sure that he can say a baby version of Ava. He loves to eat his veggies and fruit. He likes to eat some table food too, especially rice and mashed potatoes. He sleeps from 8-ish until 7-ish every night. Takes two 2-3 hour naps a day. He is a handful to get dressed, because he constantly tries to turn over on his stomach or sit-up. Stands alone for 2-3 seconds at a time. Takes a step every once in awhile. He won't let me feed him his bottles anymore...he wants to hold them himself. He still only has the 4 teeth...2 on bottom and 2 on top. His hair is unruly these days.

My baby is already getting too big too fast!

Love you baby boy.

"Bonded"

2010-02-07T10:01:00.001-06:00

This is how I found my 2 little ones the other morning when I came out of the bathroom. Ava had climbed her little self into the playpen. She was being so patient with Archer showing him how to play the pop-up game. And, he was just eating the attention up. What a sweet relationship that is blooming...
After my camera captured that first shot, they turned to look up at me.

I think Archer was tired of her help by this time...

I have a great relationship with my brother and sister. I am so glad that I was able to give that gift to Ava and Archer. What a precious, precious bond.

"Six Word Saturday"

2010-02-06T09:40:00.006-06:00

-made an offer, holding my breath-

I finally sold my house in December after being on the market for almost a year. I am currently living in my parent's basement apartment...mother-in-law suite. I have a goal of being in a new home for the new school year of 2011, when my daughter will start kindergarten. I went and checked out 2 homes yesterday. One of the houses we checked out was a foreclosure in a nice subdivision. I made an offer on that house, but it will not go to the bank until Monday. Keep your fingers crossed for me. I know there is at least one other bid in for the house.

"I will never peel a potato again."

2010-02-05T06:53:00.003-06:00

This is an easy, simple recipe for potato salad, but my motive behind this post is to really rave about these potatoes! Oreida has a new product in the freezer section, and I am addicted to it. They are real potatoes peeled and diced. You put the bag and all in the microwave for 10 minutes, and then you have your potatoes ready to be prepared however you want them. We use them for mashed potatoes, potato salad, and for soups.

My mom said, "I will never peel a potato again."

2 bags Oreida Steam and Mash Potatoes
3 heaping spoonfuls of mayonnaise
1 1/2 heaping spoonfuls of mustard
1 cup pickles
5 boiled eggs
Salt and Pepper to taste

Another thing I would like to rave about is this As Seen on T.V. chopper. I love using this for a recipe, because it is so fun to use! You have to be diligent about keeping it clean, but I think it is worth it. So, I use this contraption on my boiled eggs and my pickles. You must stack them up like this to use it on pickles, or the peel will make it hard to push it down. That goes for bell peppers too.

Doesn't that look so very professional? and yummy...
Mix the mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, eggs, salt, and pepper together.
Throw your bag of potatoes into the microwave for 10 minutes...then your other bag.
Pour the potatoes into your mix and stir it up!
Voila!...the easiest and tastiest potato salad you've ever had.

"Bread Pudding"

2010-02-03T10:20:00.010-06:00

I've never been a fan of bread pudding, because to me it tasted like soggy bread. I don't think I've even tried it again as an adult. My mom has always been a fan of the squishy bread concoction. She found a recipe she wanted to try, and I told her that I wanted to blog about it if it turned out yummy.

So, here is the recipe that we used that came from my mom's friend on facebook...passed down 3 generations.

6-8 left-over biscuits or 10 slices bread
1/2 cup flour
5 eggs
1 large can evaporated milk
1 3/4 cup sugar
2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 cup melted butter

"Crumble bread into small pieces. Mix all ingredients in large bowl with a large mixing spoon. You will probably need to add a little milk to get the right consistency. You don't want it too thick and you don't want it too thin. It will look like a lumpy cake mix once all mixed together. Pour into a greased 9x13x2 baking dish. Bake on 350 for about 45 minutes (according to your oven). It's called bread pudding, but it's more like bread pie. Cool slice and eat. It's much better when completely cool. Hope you enjoy. You may have to play with the recipe to get it just like you like. That's what I do and I don't really measure but I think this will work for you. It should be moist with a little spungie texture."

We didn't end up having to add any milk.

We followed all of her advice except, we baked it in a muffin pan. It yielded 26 muffins. The texture didn't bother me. I guess that was a childhood thing. They turned out to be really tasty!

Here's Ava pretending to try it. None of the kids would actually try it, not even Sam!

"Don't Waste It"

2010-02-02T13:40:00.004-06:00

"Back to Work to Rest"

2010-02-01T13:54:00.005-06:00

This weekend was not long and leisurely like my last. I worked until 7 o'clock Friday night. Then, I stopped by my friend Lori's new apartment to check it out and eat dinner...her spaghetti is A.W.E.S.O.M.E! I got home to Ava and Archer, and we promptly got in the bed. We were going on a little road trip first thing the next morning.

Saturday morning, bright and early, we (my mom and dad, my NaNa, me, Ava, and Archer, and my two young cousins Hannah and Amy Beth) loaded up in my dad's 12 passenger van and headed north in hopes of some bargains. We were headed to the JCPenney outlet store in Decatur, Alabama because my dad had an additional 25% off your purchase coupon good only for Friday and Saturday.

Archer was a perfect angel, which he always is! If you've been reading my blog for awhile, you will know that he is the easiest going baby in the world! He has been on numerous road trips, camping trips, and big city outings without so much as a hitch! Just precious if I do say so myself! Ava on the other hand...let's just say she was that kid in JCPenney's, much to my horror!

My stress level went way down once we got out of that store and moved on to the rest of the mall! Yes, I did let her ride the carousel eventhough she didn't really deserve it after the way she had been acting, but we were there for almost 2 hours!

We ate lunch at Ruby Tuesday's, and then carried on shopping for a little longer at Target (my mom 's favorite store). Ava fell asleep with her head resting on Archer's diaper bag while we were cruising the aisles. I guess she shopped until she dropped, literally!

On the way home, we heard the song I've got pasted to my post. I had never heard it before, and I was laughing at its clever lyrics. My dad couldn't believe I'd never heard it before! Even my mom remembered this song, and she isn't one to do that. Anyway, maybe it will take some of you down memory lane...

I always did love me some "Elvira" growing up!

I was still up for some F.U.N. when we got home, so Hannah, Amy Beth, and my nephews...Huett and Sam stayed over for a spend the night party!

Sunday morning, everyone got up and ready for church after a nice breakfast of grapes, bananas, and cinnamon bites(I know, I am really out-doing myself these days). Who said being a mom to 6 would be a handful? Okay, okay...I didn't do it all by my lonesome, Tiffany came over that morning and helped me get everyone ready for church.

After church we ate lunch, napped, and went out to eat to celebrate Mikey, my B-I-L's 28th birthday. After supper, we went over to watch a little of the W.W.E's "Royal Rumble" at Mikey and Tiffany's, and then it was home for bath-time.

What was that you said? You didn't peg me for a wresting fan? No? Well, you are right about that, but now that I'm raising a son I'm keeping an open mind about things I honestly have no personal interest in. I've been trying to get in touch with my inner sports fan, wrestle-mania mama, and super-hero follower! I'm going to have to pick up some slack since Archer's coming up without a daddy. Not that he doesn't have any male role-models to look up to, but still!

So, at the end of this weekend I am feeling really swamped because we did so much over my 2 days off, and now I'm back at work on Monday. I had to come back to work to get some rest! How ironic is that?

"Pink and Red Hearts"

2010-01-29T15:16:00.004-06:00

Valentine's Day is right around the corner! I've never been the type to get depressed around this day, even after my divorce or when I've celebrated alone. I guess Valentine's Day isn't about a significant other to me, its just about being around and celebrating the people I love.

I always loved picking out Valentine cards and passing them out to friends growing up. It was always fun to come home and empty my box full of cards from classmates. My mom always got us something special for Valentine's Day too. I fondly remember my first Valentine gift from a boy...I was 15, and Ava's daddy got me a bouquet of pink carnations and a little birthstone ring. I couldn't have been happier! Ironically, that is the only Valentine gift I remember from a boy.

I love that this holiday celebrates L.O.V.E. Even after the heartache I felt from my divorce I still believe in love and think maybe one day I will feel like that again. I don't think I will ever love that exact way again, because I think being hurt like that broke a big piece of my heart. I still believe in love, because I know I truly loved. Eventhough he changed his mind about us and our life together doesn't mean that my feelings weren't real and true.

I hope I can show Ava and Archer what love really is, and why it is worth it to sometimes take a leap of faith. I loved being married, it is the ultimate partnership. But it goes both ways, and sometimes you can't control someone else's decisions.

With the approaching holiday, I plan to celebrate with 2 sweet babes who love me beyond belief, and I feel the exact same way! We will be giving hugs and kisses and smooches all around...don't be too jealous!

"4 day weekend"

2010-01-28T11:19:00.008-06:00

****Addendum****

My mom was there with me all day on Friday to help!

Sorry Mom!

Last Thursday when I got off of work, I was so excited about my long weekend and the possibility it held! I get long weekends a lot(because of my 3 day work week), but I just needed this one.

FRIDAY:
So, got up Friday morning ready to work...and work I did! After getting Ava off to preschool, I got started with the cleaning up/cleaning out project at hand. Our Christmas goodies were still all sitting in plastic tubs in the playroom, because I just didn't know where to put them all!

Another change we are going through right now with toys is Big Kid versus Baby. Ava is old enough for toys that include small objects, not to mention her extensive jewelry collection and her random collection of small things she merits "treasures". Archer on the other hand is crawling everywhere and putting everything in his mouth! How can I keep both of these kids happy and safe?

I gutted the playroom and put everything except BIG furniture items outside! I even emptied out Ava's little room. Guess what, this didn't give me the opportunity to quit after I got started! Not that I wanted to, yes I felt overworked at the end of the day, but something about getting everything organized and in its place makes me feel good!

I took a load of stuff to the dump, a load to my storage unit, and a load to donate! Spring cleaning came early to my house! At the end of the night, I had almost, almost everything where I wanted it.

Each toy has home now. If that toy doesn't make it back to its home at night, then it may not be there when Ava goes looking for it again. Ava keeps freaking out because she thinks I'm going to get rid of her stuff. She is doing such a better job picking up her toys. I am so proud of her, and I am so ready to stop battling her about picking up after herself!

SATURDAY:
I like to at least get to lay in the bed until 8AM on Saturday mornings. We may all 3 be awake and piled up in the bed together watching cartoons, but I just like to keep the day from starting until 8. Well, not this Saturday...

Archer woke me up at 6AM, I let him lay in his bed talking and playing until 6:45. At which time, I thought I would put him in his swing and let him enjoy some Yo Gabba Gabba while I got back in the bed for awhile longer. I was switching on the swing and backing away when here comes Ava out of our room! So, my Saturday lounge wasn't going to happen!

So, I got up and in the shower while the kids were watching cartoons. I just had that "gotta get out of the house" feeling. It was a cold and windy day, but we had to get out! By 9 o'clock I was on the road with Ava, Huett, and Sam going to pick up Hannah and Amy Beth! Talk about impromptu! I was stir-crazy, and the kids were my victims!

We went to the park, and they played for about 30 minutes until the big girls were ready to go.

While at the park, I get a call from Ava's daddy that her cousin's birthday party is today, at 12 o'clock...its 11 o'clock NOW! Anyway, it worked out and she got there in time and ended up staying with her daddy until Monday morning.

I took the rest of my crew to Stix for lunch. We looked really cool cruising around in my dad's 12 passenger van. The kids ate so much I thought they were going to have to vomit! It was some great food as usual.

That afternoon, it was just me and Archer for an afternoon nap. My friend Lori came over that night and we just played with Archer and watched some television.

SUNDAY:
I woke up in a funk, and didn't want to get ready for church. I am just out of wack when Ava is away. Things just don't quite click when she is gone for the weekend. Me and Archer woke up at 7, and we were back in the bed by 9 o'clock that morning. He slept for almost 3 hours! I ended up waking him up, and then we went over to Michelle's for lunch. We spent the afternoon playing.

MONDAY:
I ended up keeping Charlie today, so I didn't do much except take care of the babies. Ava came home this morning, and I let her stay home because I missed her so much over the weekend! So, I have my kids both back home and everything feels right with the world!

I returned back to work on Tuesday, refreshed and rested!

"My Girl"

2010-01-21T07:36:00.004-06:00

"Dress-Up Diva"

2010-01-18T12:31:00.003-06:00

Oh the innocent imagination of a child!
From her crown, all the way down to her fancy shoes.

After yelling for me to make an
announcement that she was entering the room,
she pranced in like this!

"Broadway Across America"

2010-01-17T15:34:00.002-06:00

Tonight, I am heading to the theatre. I am taking Ava, and my sister and her two older boys are going with us. This will be the first musical for the kids. Its been 10 years since I've seen a broadway show, but I'm not going to let that happen again. Has it really been 10 years since I saw Chicago? It doesn't seem that long ago, but I know it was. Anyway, can't wait to get back and give you my review on the show! I can't wait to see how Ava reacts to the musical numbers! I think she is going to love it all.

"Good Times"

2010-01-16T09:40:00.002-06:00

It's already the middle of January!
It's already the middle of January!

The holidays went by so fast, and now I miss all the family gatherings.
This is a group shot of our family at my Granny's house.
Ava playing with her new pony's in their castle.
Charlie and Archer napped for maybe 15 minutes,
and then this is how we found them!
We had my Dad's family over since we've outgrown my NaNa's house.
Another shot from Granny's.
Silly girls...
Ava fell asleep in the afternoon.
I can always count on her to take an afternoon nap!
Thankfully!
Dad

Teagan and Mom

Some of NaNa's family

Ava helping Archer, aren't they just the sweetest!

I'm glad things have slowed down, but I am just missing all of the Christmas festivities! There is such a long break between Christmas and Easter. But, guess what? Easter will be here before we know it!

"Dedicated"

2010-01-15T09:24:00.007-06:00

Now
that's

Dedication...

I am very glad to report that things are warming up a bit in Alabama. Back to the 50's and 60's, so that the kids can get back out and play! We are getting stir-crazy around here.

"i heart faces"

2010-01-12T14:08:00.003-06:00

the contest over at iheartfaces is titled "best face photo".
these two cuties are both attending their first parties.

I like to call this shot, "Talk to the Hand".

"Sam's 3rd Birthday Party"

2010-01-12T10:20:00.009-06:00

Sam turned 3 on December 29. We celebrated his birthday on January 2nd at Froggy's. Froggy's is a place full of inflatables! Fun for all. They also have an area with arcade games. The kids and adults alike were bouncing, jumping, sliding, and playing around. You can tell from the pictures I've posted that everyone had a great time.

I chose to take Archer down the slide for his first time, and it was no easy feat climbing up the ladder holding a 20+ pound child. Once we made it to the top, we sat there for awhile to enjoy the view. Ava joined us at the top, but she didn't stick around and wait on us.

Ignore the horrid red-eye, this is before our decent.

Here we go!

And we safely landed at the bottom.

Ava and Huett

Ava towards the end of the playtime(you can tell by her pigtails)!

Mikey, Charlie, and Tiffany

Boo and Drew

Henley having a little slide-time fun (look at her hair)!

Huett and Mikey...Mikey played so hard with the kids that he was a sweaty mess by the end of the party!

Brinley mixing it up a little...head first on her stomach!

Hannah and Amy Beth

Me and Archer

Amy Beth and Drew

Archer checking out Alex...he thought, "Did I do that?"

Archer and Mikey's Aunt Erica, who we all call Boo.
Archer just loved feeling of her fur coat.

Archer and Aunt Chelle.
Another one of Mikey's aunts that we treat as one of our own!

Harper, just here to look cute!

Maddie Rae, looking cute as ever.

What a face, and check out those bottom teeth!

In total, babies, kids, and adults there were 50 people at Sam's party! The frigid weather we were having didn't keep anyone away from celebrating with Sam.

Happy Birthday

Sam "the Hambone" Hill

"Another Snowy Let Down"

2010-01-09T12:52:00.004-06:00

I've posted about it before...my love of snow! In Alabama, snow is always random and rare. As a child, it seems like we always got at least one snowfall a year that produce a few inches of snow for us to play in. As I've grown up, it seems like we may go 2-3 years without any snow accumulation! What a bummer!

Last week, we were forecasted to get a couple of inches of snow to go along with this arctic freeze that has swept through the country. I was pumped...conditions were great! If the snow started to fall, it should stick for sure. I had been burned before by the weather, but "always an optimist".

Anyway, that morning I went to Wal-mart and bought us a fire pit to keep us warm while we were playing outside. I thought how perfect would it be to get a fire going, and then when the kids got super cold they could just warm up for a little while without having to go inside every 10 minutes.

Well, you see those snowflakes on my black sweatshirt...
thats about all the snow we got! We did have some beautiful snow flurries. When the snow started to fall, we got the 3 big kids all bundled up for some fun outside. I went ahead and got the firepit going...
We roasted some marshmallows and drank hot cocoa.
Ava didn't like the smell of her marshmallow.
Catching a few snowflakes...
I think Sam just wanted to stick his tongue out at me.
I know you can't tell from the pictures, but the snow really was falling down beautifully, it just wasn't enough to last. We just look like a bunch of people who like to hang out around a firepit in below freezing temperatures. I guess we could call this Extreme Snacking!

"9 months old already!"

2010-01-07T13:47:00.004-06:00

A few facts about Archer's 9 month self:

He loves to play with his toys.
He can pull himself up onto his knees.
He runs in his walker and knows how to avoid obstacles.

He knows how to get to what he wants.
He can almost crawl.
He can push himself into a sitting position from his belly. He has 4 teeth...2 on bottom and 2 on top!
He weights about 22-24 pounds.

He loves to eat everything I let him have.
He can pick up snacks and put them in his mouth.
He likes to hold a 4oz. bottle and feed himself.

I can't believe he is growing so fast. I am so lucky to have been blessed with such a sweet baby boy. He is so laid back and easy going. He lights up when his big sister comes around. His blue eyes just draw you in! You can't help but love him up.

I can't wait to see what God has in store for this special little guy!

"Christmas at my Parent's"

2009-12-29T12:16:00.008-06:00

We did Christmas Eve at my mom's house this year. This is the first year in my life that we haven't spent this night at my Granny's house for dinner and presents. She changed things up so that her kids could have their children and grandchildren over for Christmas Eve. It turned out great for us, because we were able to all come together, eat, and open presents without being rushed.

My mom decided to cook "breakfast" for supper. Which we are all big fans of around here. Especially the sausage pinwheels...they are delicious!

We were missing Jenny and baby Taiden for our Christmas celebration. Jenny delivered Taiden on December 22nd. They weren't ready to get out and about yet, but Chad and Teagan made it for a little while.

Here is a picture of my Dad and his two youngest grandsons,
Archer and Charlie.

NaNa feeding Charlie. You can always count on her to feed a baby. I think she's a little biased towards the boys, maybe because she had 4 of her own...no girls!
Look at those precious angels...Can't you just see their halos?
All of the grandkids, minus Taiden.
7 grandkids 4 and under...3 new ones in 2009!
My mom made all of their matching shirts.

I think my mom got a little carried away with the gift giving!
Who needs Santa when you've got GranGran and PawPaw?

Teagan leading this little train to the living room.
Notice all the big kids in back have their eyes closed...
They got such a kick out of this!
Pure F.U.N.
Waiting patiently...

Huett and Ava with their "Super Why" computers from Target.
They also got the dress-up costumes from "Super Why".
FYI: "Super Why" is a show on Public Broadcasting Station (PBS) which teaches them to read. They LOVE this show!

Teagan with her new baby doll and
Sam with his new coloring book case.

We got Mom this print custom made for Christmas.
Jenny ordered it online, and she got to pick the letters she wanted to use to spell "Huett".
We got Dad a TomTom(navigation tool) for his work truck. He said he loves it.
We had a fun Christmas Eve, and my mom was so glad she got us all over to spend some time as a family. Thanks Mom and Dad! We had a great time!

"A place for our books."

2009-12-29T10:45:00.002-06:00

Have I mentioned lately how much I love this bookshelf, and the fact that it is in our apartment now...with us where it belongs! Oh how I have missed my books. I don't know what it is, but I just love the fact that I walk past this everyday. Like my very own little library!

I hope having books readily available and in mass supply keeps Ava and Archer interested in reading...not just for school, but because they want to for fun. I let Ava fill the whole bottom row with her books. Last night we read, "Horton Hatches the Egg". My sister-in-law Jenny got this for the kids because I had never heard of this story. It is the first story Dr. Seuss wrote about Horton. It was a cute story.

I just finished the latest novel written by Wally Lamb, "The Hour I First Believed." It was great. This book definately kept up with the other ones he has written, "I Know This Much is True" and "She's Come Undone". "She's Come Undone" was one of Oprah's Book Club books back in the day. They all stretch the lifespan of the main character and go in-depth about their family dynamics and social interactions. They have all been well worth the time it takes me to get through one of his books. I read his first one probably 10 years ago, and have been hooked ever since.

"Down with the Decorations"

2009-12-28T14:30:00.015-06:00

It's time to take down the decorations...

but I love them so much!

Each one, old and new,
placed lovingly in the "perfect" spot.

A few throw pillows here and there...

Kitchen decor.

Bathroom decor.

Ava's snowglobe which is no more!

"Christmas Morning"

2009-12-25T21:58:00.005-06:00

This Christmas has been the best ever!
Not only as a mommy, but also as an adult!
I have cherished every last second,
and I'm sad to see it come to an end...
almost!

We still have New Year's to go!

Here are a few pictures from Christmas morning.
Just a glimpse into our Santa goodies...

Merry Christmas everybody!

Love, Trisha

"Santa's Security"

2009-12-23T10:00:00.011-06:00

Last night I took Ava and Archer to see Santa. Ava has already seen him at school this year, so this trip was really about Archer. I wanted my sweet baby boy to get his picture made with Santa for his first Christmas.

I didn't realize I was going to be so sentimental about this until I was getting ready to give Archer to Santa. At which time, the moment was ruined by "Santa's Security"!

There was no one waiting to have pictures made with Santa, so when we got there I wheeled the stroller right in. I told Ava to go ahead and talk to Santa. I grabbed my camera and put it around my neck, and then proceeded to unbuckle Archer and pick him up. At that exact time, I felt someone right behind me. This old "Mr. Roger's" looking man in a sweater was standing right behind me. He said, "You can't take any pictures with that camera."

I said, "Even if I'm buying one?"

He said, "No pictures."

My reply, "Well that sucks."

I know that wasn't the greatest response, but I was caught off guard. I wasn't that worried about not getting a picture on my camera, I was just excited to see how Archer responded to Santa.

Like I said, I was just trying to enjoy the moment and see his expression when I feel someone breathing down my neck. The man had creeped up behind me again, and in a not so nice voice said..."IF you take a picture with that camera, its going to be $20 a flash."

I was SO caught off guard AGAIN! I guess he thought I was still going to try and sneak a picture? The only reason it was still on my neck is because there wasn't any time to take it off...I was already holding Archer when he approached me the first time. It flew all over me, and just busted my bubble. The moment was totally ruined for me! I tried to get Archer to smile, but I was so flustered, I didn't even care anymore.

We got a decent picture, and I went to pay for it. While we were waiting for it to print, Ava had gotten in the stroller and picked up my camera. I didn't even realize she had picked up the camera, and when I glanced back I realized the man was standing right in front of her. It kind of creeped me out. He then looked at me and said, "I can't allow her to take any pictures of Santa."

Are you freaking kidding me?

She is 4 years old and not even close enough to get a decent picture if she wanted to. As if, I had a master plan to get the coveted picture of the man in white! I couldn't get out of there fast enough! The Santa was exceptionally santa-esque, but still not worth all of that! The last thing he said to me was, "I'm just doing job."

What a miserable man! His job is really to capture sweet moments with Santa, not to ruin them!

"The Giving Tree"

2009-12-21T12:54:00.006-06:00

Last night I was reading a book to Ava at bedtime. We have just recently gotten our bookshelf moved from our old house with the rest of our books on it. We had gotten away from reading books at bedtime, because Ava always wanted to watch a cartoon before bed. Now she wants to start reading books again at bedtime, which is fine by me!

She picked out "The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein. Ava got this from my friend Treva on her first birthday. I am a book freak, and that goes for kid books too. I just love my big, beautiful bookshelf full of mine and Ava's books!

We were laying in bed, and its been over a year since we've read this book. I was really getting into the voices of the tree and of the little boy as he grows up from a kid, to teenager, to adult, and to an old man. It is a really touching book, and I've always loved it. Ava didn't say anything while I read the book, and when I finished I looked over at her and she had big crocodile tears rolling down her face with the biggest pout you've ever seen.

My baby had gotten the "meaning" of the story. She knew it was more than just the kid playing with the tree, taking her apples, cutting down her branches, and finally chopping down her trunk. I was filled with so much love when I looked into that sweet little face.

Ava is so rough and tough...always with a smart comment or sassy remark! It was nice to see that she has a soft side too. I was always tender-hearted growing up, almost to a fault. I'm glad my baby girl has a touch of that too. And it is so meaningful to me that she finds meaning from the written word. I am so dreading the days of I-Pods, DS's, floTV, and everything else that takes away that bright-eyed child and turns her into a little zombie!

If you've never seen his work, look it up and see what you can find. I know he also has a few collections of poetry that are geared toward children. Great, simple illustrations!

"Turned 30...

2009-12-14T14:25:00.034-06:00

...and lived to blog about it"

For my birthday outing, I planned a night out with girl friends. My kind of celebrating has changed a bit over the years, maybe with the maturity that comes with the big 3-0? I don't know why, but I wasn't interested in having a big bash with bunches of people or going out to a bar to dance the night away...been there done that! This year, I was most interest in getting together with the handful of friends that I call my "best friends". I know I am fortunate to have so many...most people say you are lucky to have 1 "best friend", but I can honestly say that I can count on these girls for anything and everything!

We all met up at my house (minus Jenny) and after some debate about what was for dinner, ended up at Red Lobster. I'm not a seafood fan, but I knew they had some good chicken dishes and outstanding desserts! I ordered this nice little "bahama mama" to get the night started!

If you can't tell how much I'm enjoying it, then take a closer look!

Let's see that one more time!
D.E.L.I.C.I.O.U.S.

Being the stickler for time that I am, we were the first guests to arrive at our next location...wait for it...Sip N Strokes! We went in, picked out the best seats in the house and then proceded over to the Publix to pick out our "sip" of choice! I'm not much of a wine drinker, but I like the idea of it. We picked out a nice Beringer after advice from Treva.

These pictures will give you an idea of what
the experience was like getting ready to paint.

Treva loosening up a bit to let her inner artist come out!

If you were wondering what someone had painted on my apron...

Me and Treva...we go way back. We met during our late highschool years when she dated my brother...THAT didn't last, but our friendship did! I guess we've been friends now going on 12 years. We didn't even attend the same highschool, and she is a year younger than me, but some people just stick! And, she isn't the kind of friend who I've lost touch with for months or years at a time. We've been together from the beginning, and I want to keep it that way! We have had all kinds of experiences...countless trips here and there, heartache, loss, weddings, births, divorce, and more together. She is happily married to her perfect match Matthew, and they have a sweet baby boy named Drew together. I would do anything for this girl, and she would say the same for me.

Love you Treva Nell, the "I" in my B-*-T-C-H.

Me and Lori...We met at church when she came to be our children's minister back in the day...2001 I think. We became fast friends at and away from church. Another one of those people I just clicked with. Not only are we still friends, but now we are co-workers. I graduated from nursing school in 2004, and Lori started school that year. Now, 5 years later we have been working together in the O.R. for 2 years! You never know how things are going to turn out or what to expect out of life!

Me and Michelle...We met about 5 years ago when my little sister Tiffany started dating her nephew Mikey. I'll give you a minute to wrap your head around that one! We have been hanging out ever since. Now, I feel like one of the family...always getting invited to bring the kids over when Michelle cooks for Tiff's family!

When her dad, "Popeye Bart" died last year, it felt like I had lost a grandfather too. He was always so sweet to Ava and treated her like one of his own grandkids. He has been truly missed, and I know Michelle misses him terribly. Friends stick by each other in the bad and the good times! Thats what being a friend is all about!

Me and Tiffany...

What can I say?
Best sister
in the state...
in the world...
in the universe...
EVER!

I know, corny! But it is the truth. I was gone away to college for 1 year (a 50 minute drive), and I was so homesick I couldn't stand myself! I missed my family so much I moved back home after that and started nursing school with Tiffany. Can I say that I laughed more during those 2-3 years than I ever have....EVER! When I moved back, my parents were building a new home, so we were living in a 2 bedroom/1 bathroom rental house shared between 4 adults! We lived that way for over a year, and loved every minute of it. Now, we have 5 kids between us, and Mikey jokes that he didn't know when he married Tiffany that he would actually be marrying 2 women, one just without the benefits! It is special when you can be best friends with family! Now we are raising our kids together, and they are more like siblings than cousins.

Love ya Tiffany, the "T" in my B-I-*-C-H

Me and Jenny...Jenny and my brother Chad married back in 2006. They dated for several years before that, we were so happy when she joined our family. We haven't always been super friends, just because they were living so far away and the demands of being a pharmacist keep her busy, but over the last few years, we have gotten a lot closer. Jenny doesn't have any sisters of her own, so me and Tiffany took her in as one of our own. It was a little harder for Jenny to just accept us as family because she never had any sisters...and we come on a little strong sometimes! I am so glad to have Jenny in my life, and call her my sister-in-law! She also gave me the cutest niece ever with another one due any day now! Thanks for putting up with my crazy brother and family!

She is carrying baby Taiden in there...ready to pop!

Getting my paint on...a masterpiece in the making!

The finished products.

If you couldn't tell by this post, I had a great time! Just the way I wanted to celebrate my 30th birthday. Thanks for celebrating with me ladies, and I can't wait to grow old with all of you... at least 60 more years like the 30 I've had!

"Movie Date"

2009-12-13T17:45:00.004-06:00

On December the 11th, the new Disney animation film, "The Princess and the Frog" opened in theaters. It also happened to be my birthday. I love Disney movies, and I have been missing the fairy tale type of movie they use put out when I was growing up.

Also, Ava hasn't ever been to the movie theater. I have been patiently awaiting a movie that we could go see together that she would enjoy. I picked the right one.

The movie was just what we needed. So cute, and filled with great characters and wonderful music! Even a scary bad guy to rank with Ursula and Cruella DeVil. I thoroughly enjoyed myself, and so did Ava. She wanted to go back and watch another movie when that one was over.

I recommend this movie to families everywhere!
Trisha's stamp of approval.

Also, something to look forward to,
Toy Story 3 is coming out in the summer of 2010!
Can't wait for that one.

"Thursday 13"

2009-12-10T08:28:00.011-06:00

This is just one of those fun things to do to waste some time.

1. Tantalizing: watching "LL Cool J" lick his lips again and again on NCIS:Los Angeles

2. Talking: to Ava when she is in one of her imaginary moods

3. Target: shopping the clearance stuff and finding the best deal ever!

4. Tattoo: not for me, but SEXY on some guys

5. Tears: welled up in my eyes last night while packing the last few things out of Ava's room.

6. Telephone: not very fond of talking on it, and hate it when I see someone using a bluetooth.

7. Teenager: can't believe its been 10 years since I was one

8. Texas: never been, but I love me some cowboys (not the team, the kind on a horse)

9. Traffic: makes me so frustrated, and I'm glad I'm not in it often

10. Tired: the way I feel after a 12 hour shift or a day of cleaning house

11. Twitter: can't get into it, and don't care to know what everyone else is doing every second of the day.

12. Thoughtful: I strive to be...

13. Tan: not worried about it, and so glad that tanning beds are out!

"30 years?"

2009-12-09T10:41:00.006-06:00

I'm turning 30 on Friday! I have been dreading it for reasons I can't quite pinpoint, but my mood about it is starting to change. I guess now that it's actually here, and I have made some fun plans...it doesn't seem so dreary!

The thing that freaks me out is that I can remember when I was a child and my parents were 30. Does that seem weird to anybody else but me? I've never thought about that until this year! Time seems like it goes by faster than ever now, especially watching Ava and Archer grow.

I've always been one to appreciate the present and not take things for granted, but it still becomes a passing memory way before I'm ready for it to! I think if I didn't enjoy life so much, then it wouldn't bother me to watch it fly by! There isn't anything to do but accept it and move on!

Another thing that makes turning 30 a little more overwhelming, is the fact that I never pictured my life to have turned out quite like it has! On the surface, if you heard..."Divorced...living with her parents...single mom to 2" You would think disaster... But, let me break those down for you!

Divorced- gladly divorced for 4 years now! Shellshocked when it all went down, but I can look back and realize that it wasn't going to work out...He changed, and I'm glad I don't have to deal with his issues any longer. Now we just have to raise Ava together, and that is working out just fine. I have been able to forgive, and we have moved past all that to become friends again for parenting sake!

Living with my parents- I chose to move in with my parents and sell our house because I want to move into a different school district before Ava starts school in 2011. We aren't crammed into a little house or anything...Me, Ava, and Archer are living in their "mother-in-law" suite in the basement. We have our own kitchen, laundry, bathroom, bedroom, playroom, and garage. But still, technically we are living with my parents and I hate the way that sounds. I was always so proud of the fact that I was able to keep our house after the divorce, and NOT move in with my parents. I don't mean for it to sound like I don't appreciate what they have done for me and mine. My parents have been such a blessing and a huge help. I couldn't do what I do without them!

Single Mom to 2...I am divorced from Ava's dad, but Archer is a different story. After my divorce, I was most worried about whether or not I would have more children. I have never wanted to just have 1 kid, but what was I going to do about it now? I wasn't very interested in getting married again...been there, done that...but I did want another baby! So, I went about it in an unconventional way. The thought of artificial insemination always irked me because I wouldn't know who the father was. I really didn't want to go that route, but I wasn't totally ruling it out. I was talking one night about my predicament with a friend, who just happened to be a guy, and I just asked him if he would do that for me (help me make a baby). To my surprise, a week later, he accepted my offer...no strings attached, if I got pregnant, the baby would be mine. Well, it worked! It was that fast and a month later I was dealing with the realization that I was actually going to have the baby I wanted! There has been gossip and questioning, but I expected that. I haven't revealed the identity of Archer's "sperm donor" to anyone, because that was part of our deal. I know, I know, I know...I will just have to deal with that when Archer is old enough to ask questions! In reality, we have treated this as if I was artificially inseminated...the father isn't listed on the birth certificate, and he has no interaction with Archer. I think of Archer and the way I came about having him as a blessing! I honestly think God wants him to be here with me...he wasn't an accident or a consequence...he was wanted from the beginning, he was meant to be a part of mine and Ava's family.

So, when you break my situation down like that, it isn't like it sounds on the surface. This isn't what I expected out of my life at 30, its more! I am happy and blessed! I couldn't imagine my life like this, because it is better than I ever expected!

Happy Birthday to ME!

"Phote Frustration"

2009-12-08T06:30:00.003-06:00

I borrowed my sister's camera,
I got my props together,

I timed the shoot at the best time for Archer,
and these are the pictures I took.

My favorite,
even though you can't see his beautiful blue eyes.

This one made it onto the Christmas card. I cropped this one, and it turned out cute
for his "first christmas" pictures.

Archer was my first subject for the day.
When Ava got home later I tried to get my pictures of them together.
DISASTER!
I was so frustrated and stressed by the time we got done,
I'm surprised I even got any worth mentioning!
Got a lot of pictures like this...
which are cute to me, but not christmas card worthy.

I also took some snapshots of Charlie while
I was babysitting him that day.
He enjoyed having his picture taken,
and he cooperated nicely.

Look at that sweet face, and that cute bum!
In retrospect,
I will either have to take something for anxiety
before my next photoshoot
or just pay the professionals.
Who am I kidding,
I am just going to have to keep practicing
until I get better at it...
I'm not one to throw in the towel after
one bad day with a camera around my neck.
Eventhough, that day it felt more like a noose!

"Stockings"

2009-12-07T06:00:00.003-06:00

My mom wanted some new stockings this year for her grandkids, so I helped her with making some very unique, very cute, very cRaZy stockings!

We had made things like pillows, purses, and even the bedding and accessories for Ava's nursery using crazy quilting. The idea is that you mix and match material, then embellish the design with anything you want! I guess thats the cRaZy part! We always have fun with it! This time, I got to do the fun part...I designed them and sewed the strips, then my mom added the ribbon, rick-rack, buttons, and patches. We did all of those steps in one day. Then, we monogrammed on the top pieces. The last step was putting them all together, and my mom went over to my Granny's house to let her help finish them up!

You can't really appreciate the 3-D effect the embellishments make in the pictures, but you get a good idea! So festive and just right for kids!

This is the finished project in my mom's living room.
She hung the stockings on a fire screen,
because my dad doesn't like the weighted stocking holders...
He is scared one of the kids will pull them onto their head!

"Let it Snow, some more!"

2009-12-06T10:17:00.008-06:00

I love snow! We don't get much of it here in Alabama, but I've always been a big fan of the white stuff! Yesterday, we got a light dusting that wasn't much more than an icey mess, but don't think I wasn't going to whip out the snow bibs for the kids!

Ava stayed out there and played for about an hour. I was in and out, mostly monitoring her from the inside of the house, because Archer wouldn't enjoy being out in the cold. One time she came in, and I asked her if she was working on a snowman? She informed me that she was making an ice sculptor of a dog, on a mountain...quote, "I call it Dog Mountain". I could see it from the house...it looked like a pile of snow to me!
She changed her mind about going down the slide, and opted to climb down the ladder instead...she didn't want to land in the big pile of snow at the bottom. Nothing like frozen snow for breakfast!
Sharing a cup of hot chocolate on the front porch with my baby girl, priceless!
Eventhough I didn't take Archer out,
I still tried out his new snow bib
He was warm and cute...chilling in the house! I hope, hope, hope that we get some more, SO...
Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

"Thanksgiving in Review"

2009-12-01T17:00:00.008-06:00

I was lucky enough to actually have 6 days off in a row surrounding the Thanksgiving holiday. This post is going to fill you in on why I was WAY too busy to blog, eventhough I would have loved to have a few minutes to sit down at the computer...that just didn't happen!

Wednesday: While Ava was at preschool attending her Indian and Pilgrim Thanksgiving Party, I took Archer with me to the hospital where I work for our ENT Thanksgiving lunch. My coworkers got to love on him and he got to try banana pudding for the first time! He loved it!

Thursday: While watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, we cooked a couple of items for our Thanksgiving lunch. I tried 2 new recipes:

The corn was runnier than I wanted it to be, but it tasted yummy! The cranberry salad had a great taste and texture to it, but with all of the other desserts to choose from, mine kept getting skipped over!

This is a family picture we took as soon as we all arrived! I knew we wouldn't all stay in one place for long!

We visited with my mom's side of the family that morning, my dad's side of the family for the afternoon, and then I went over with Tiffany and Mikey to his family's supper...busy much!

Friday: My mom, Archer, and I braved the crowds Friday morning for some "Black Friday Fun". We weren't out with the hard-care shoppers...we got out and about around 7 o'clock. Ava had went to her dad's the night before, so we only had Archer with us, and we all know he is always up for anything! The night before, we scoured the papers for the deals that we were looking for! We ended up finding almost everything we wanted.

That afternoon I worked on my Christmas decorations. Ava was excited when she got home from her dad's and found out that Hannah and Amy Beth were spending the night with us! I was surrounded by kids and christmas stuff!

Saturday: Woke up with kids here and there...Christmas decorations EVERYWHERE! I helped my mom with her decorating all day long! That night, one of my friends Lori came over and she had a nice visit with me and the kids.

Sunday: We went to watch Hannah and Amy Beth get baptized at their church for morning service. My NaNa went with me and the kids, but I was still very tired and stressed by the time we got done with church and going out to eat! Needless to say, we took a nap when we got home!

Monday: I am ashamed to say, I did not do one productive thing on Monday! Yes, the house could've used some attention, and the clothes needed washing...but I ignored all of that and caught up on some of my shows and played with Archer all day!

With Thanksgiving behind us, I am now looking forward to Christmas, but I hope we can spread the get togethers over a few days so we aren't so rushed from place to place!

I almost forgot to mention how thankful I am for everything the Lord has blessed me with! My heart is bursting with thanks for Ava, Archer, my family, friends, health, employment, housing, transportation, food, too many things to list! I am Blessed!

"Six Word Saturday"

2009-11-28T12:09:00.003-06:00

ornaments, hooks, garland, and a "helpful" child!

"Teagan's Birthday Party"

2009-11-24T10:20:00.010-06:00

My niece Teagan's 2nd Birthday Party
was this past weekend at Gymboree.

You can tell by the pictures I've posted,
We had a bLaSt!
Teagan just waiting for them to open the gate.

Archer all wide eyed.
He is only 7 months,
but he enjoyed it just as much as everyone else!

Ava
Tiff and Charlie
Uncle Chad and Archer
Mikey and Charlie
Mom, frazzeled from chasing kids around(as always)!
Birthday Girl!
Ava in the "garbage can",
as the kids liked to call it!
Chad bouncing Teagan on the BIG ball.
Sam and Huett wrestling with PawPaw, my dad.
Me and Archer

Huett on the monkey bars.
Sam crawling through a tunnel.
Huett walking on the balance beam.
During "mat time" they blew bubbles,
played under the parachute,
played games,
and sung Happy Birthday to Teagan.

Teagan blowing out her birthday candle.
Archer's first party to attend...
he thoroughly enjoyed himself,
as we all did!

Charlie's first party to attend too.

Archer told Charlie to
"Talk to the hand, we are outta here!"

"Almost Wordless Wednesday"

2009-11-18T09:23:00.007-06:00

These are random pictures,
but just too cute not to post!

Sam, Ava, and Huett at church.

"Yard Sale Finds"

2009-11-17T06:31:00.005-06:00

How much do you love my new bed covers!

They are Tommy Hilfiger, and I got them for a low $40!

I was in my room Saturday, placing my "new to me" bedskirt, bedspread, pillow shams, and throw pillows on my bed when I realized that almost everything in my room is borrowed, or bought second-hand. I love being surrounded by my great finds. There is nothing better than finding something on sale or priced really well at a yard sale!

Right now, my bedroom is also Archer's room. This is his changing table/shelving unit...I borrowed this from my sister. All of his bedding and such are in blues, tans, and browns.

I am a sucker for a great quilt!
Truth be told, all quilts are great...especially if they are worn out!
Both of these quilts I bought at separate yard sales for $9 dollars each.
See this leather BarcoLounger recliner?
Try to control yourself when I tell you I found it for a low $20!
GASP! I am sad that yard sale season has come to an end,
but don't worry I will be ready for business next year!

"Friday Night Movie Night"

2009-11-16T18:20:00.011-06:00

Friday Night was movie night for me and Ava.

We watched Up.

Pay no attention to the folded clothes still sitting on the couch! Archer woke up for the fun about half-way through the movie.
Giving Ava a little love pat.
My critique:
The movie was over Ava's head,
but it didn't stop her from laughing out loud a few times.
I was entertained, but its no Finding Nemo, Cars, or the Incredibles!

"Dolly Partner is My Friend"

2009-11-13T12:56:00.014-06:00

My sister-in-law Jenny turned me on to "Dolly Parton's Imagination Library" sometime back while Ava was 2. It is something Dolly started years ago in a few cities to guarantee that kids had books to read. Not just hand-me-down books, but brand new hard-back books with their names on them. The idea took off, and now different charity organizations throughout many states can raise a percentage of the cost for the books and provide this to the kids in their area. The charity organization that provides it for us is The Junior League of Birmingham. I signed Archer up when he was born, and he started getting books in the mail about 6 weeks later. They get 1 book each every month until they turn 5. That's adds up to a lot of books...approximately 48 books a piece!

Here is an example of the letter
that came with Ava and Archer's first book.

I said all of that to say this, Ava has been getting books in the mail for as long as she can remember! I told her that a nice lady named Dolly Parton wanted her to have books to read. So, now she always wants to know when she will be getting another book from her friend Dolly Partner. She insists that Dolly's last name is Partner. She always asks me when is she going to get to meet her and where does she live.

A few weeks ago she told me when she grows up she wants to be a "mail lady" and deliver books with Dolly Partner. In her little mind, Dolly personally puts each book in her mailbox. I guess I am lucky to have such a philanthropist for a daughter!

Last night we were watching The Jay Leno Show because Dolly Parton was going to be on. Before she came on, Ava asked me what she looked like. I told her she has blonde hair just like her, and she is kinda short. Ava said, "If she's short, then how can she reach to put my books in the mailbox?"

Here is a picture of some examples of the books they receive. The first book that comes to them in the mail is The Little Engine that Could, and their last book is Look Out Kindergarten Here I Come. The selection changes from year to year, so Archer isn't getting the same books that Ava already has.

"First Tooth"

2009-11-12T13:36:00.007-06:00

Archer got his first baby tooth today!

Can we just slow down a minute? My little baby is going to be hitting milestones left and right...
I better just hold on for the ride
I love you baby boy.

"Veteran's Day"

2009-11-11T06:25:00.004-06:00

I am posting this post for my baby girl Ava. Her daddy served in the United States Marine Corps for 4 years. I was with him through all four years. Those were some of the longest years I remember. It seems like the years fly by now. The Marine Corps provided us with everything we needed, and I was able to go to nursing school while Jason was enlisted. Those were the hardest times when he was deployed, especially after the September 11th attacks. But, in between those times we had a lot of fun travelling back and forth. I wouldn't trade those 4 years for anything in the world. I want Ava to know that her daddy sacrificed a lot to serve our country, and that he is a hero. Once a Marine, Always a Marine!

So, to all you military families out there, I would just like to say thank you for supporting your loved ones while they are away. It isn't easy to be away from them during the holidays.

And, to the men and women who are protecting us, here and abroad, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are making it possible for us to live the American dream.

"Disney on Ice"

2009-11-10T10:01:00.028-06:00

Disney on Ice started advertising way back in July for their show coming to Birmingham, November 4-8. It looked like it was going to be a fun show. Instead of just featuring a certain movie, they were celebrating 100 years of Disney. With songs and characters from 18 different Disney movies. Some of the movies came out while I was growing up!

I haven't ever been to see a Disney on Ice production and neither has Ava. Me and my sister, Tiffany decided we would take the kids this time. We were going to go on opening day, but Tiff's husband Mikey wanted to go with us. We went to the Friday show that started at 10:30. We left Charlie at home with my mom, but decided to take Archer with us, because let's face it...he is the BEST baby ever!

Huett and Ava loading up in the Durango.

Sam cheesing it up for the camera!
Archer getting ready to catch a few ZZZ's on the ride.

Being the frugal folks that we are, we opted to buy our tickets once we arrived instead of buying online. We saved approximately $8 a ticket. We couldn't get the six seats we wanted on the same row, but they gave us 4 together on one row and 2 together behind them. After we got our tickets in hand, it was no problem getting into the show.

Waiting patiently for tickets.

See how our seats were back to back.

I also decided to bring Archer's umbrella stroller down.
I put him beside me in the aisle,

and he liked watching the show like a big boy!

After we all got seated and situated, it was time to go pick out the souveneir of choice for each kid. Mikey took the boys one at a time, and then when they got back I took Ava. I was expecting the same amount of merchandise as I had seen at the circus, but it wasn't like that. I was actually a little disappointed. If I was going to spend $20 on something, I want to have a lot to choose from. Ava wanted this plastic shiny horse, that I couldn't place with any Disney movie. I tried to get her to pick out one of my favorites, Mickey or Minnie Mouse, but she kept coming back to the same horse. We got the stinkin' horse, and then she got to pick out her shaved ice. That's right, we were some of the suckers that bought the shaved ice in the "souveneir mug" for $10 a pop!

They also had booths set up with Disney characters that you could have your picture taken with, but only if you bought their printed out picture for...wait for it...$16! I chose to have Ava squat by the sign under one of the booths. She thought I was crazy, but I think it turned out to be a cute picture.
Archer getting ready for the show to start.
What a handsome boy in his polo sweater...
7 months going on 27 years.

Ava captivated by the show,
styling in her princess crown
that she insisted on wearing to the show.

Aunt Tiff and Archer

Ava took this picture of me wearing her crown.

Sam loving on Archer.
I think these two are going
to end up being the bestest of friends!

Huett eating on his snow cone.
He stayed in his seat for the entire show.

Sam hugging on Mikey from the row behind...
see how great it worked out!

Archer just hanging with the big guys.

Toy Story starring
Buzz and Woody

Beauty and the Beast

My favorite,
Finding Nemo.

Huett kept asking, "Where are the Incredibles?"
They were very close to the end, but they did a cute bit.

The farewell song.
Everyone came back out to the stage!
I think I am going to put this on my calendar for next year!

"Sweet Peace"

2009-11-08T13:26:00.007-06:00

I'm at work this weekend, and thankfully we aren't that busy. That being said, I've been doing a lot of "blog hopping". I don't know what it is, but it seems I keep landing on blogs full of sadness, loss and grief!

My heart breaks for these families. I don't know how they are managing!
I am sitting here in front of the computer at work, and I can't stop the tears from falling.

I haven't experienced the loss of a child, and I pray that I never do. I have however lived through a divorce that broke my heart, and that did some irreversible damage that I don't wish on anyone. Through the emotional roller coaster that was my life for almost 2 years, I always prayed for one thing the most: PEACE.

If I could only have a peace that passes understanding, I knew I could handle my life as a single mom...PEACE...I knew I could go on with life without my husband who I thought would be there until the end...PEACE...I knew I could learn to accept this as my life...PEACE...I knew I could handle dealing with my daughter going to stay with her daddy and his new wife for the weekend...PEACE... I knew God would take care of me...PEACE...I knew I could handle the holidays and milestones I thought we would be experiencing as a family...PEACE...I knew I could handle the fact that my idea of a family was changing forever...PEACE...I knew God would bring me through this...PEACE...peace that passes understanding...

Just wrap me in your arms and give my heart PEACE that all will be alright! As I read these blogs that break my heart, I pray that God gives them a PEACE, one that is so heavenly and sweet.

I found this on another blog, and I hope it speaks to you too:

giver of hope,
walk among those
who see no possibility of a life
unscarred by violence

bringer of light
sit down beside those
who see only darkness
and have barely a candle flame

bestower of love
carry the ones
who can no longer walk
without stumbling over grief

sender of peace
come to those
who walk continually
on the shards of war
that litter our world

give hope, bring light, bestow love victorious
SEND PEACE

"Six Word Saturday"

2009-11-07T09:08:00.004-06:00

working today, missing yard-sales and kids!

This is my weekend to work. Boo-hoo for me! It was just a slap in the face to have to drive to work and see all the yard sale signs out on the highway. Not to mention the 3-mile yard sale in my neighborhood today. My mom had to miss them too, because she is stuck home with my kids.

Oh well, I guess we will catch them next year!

"Fall Yard Art"

2009-11-05T10:22:00.009-06:00

This is the fall decoration I made for my mom's front yard.
I got the idea from a fellow blogger, and added to it a bit.

I think it turned out super cute!

"Halloween Saturday Night"

2009-11-03T11:22:00.046-06:00

My Halloween could not have been any better. I love that Halloween fell on a Saturday this year. We enjoyed the holiday all weekend. On Friday I was able to take Ava to her Halloween Party at preschool. That night, I took Ava and Archer to a "Hallelujah Hayride" through the woods. The hayride lasted about 45 minutes. It was a great night for it too, just cool enough that we needed coats, but not cold enough for gloves. Archer had so much fun that he just fell asleep about half-way through. Ava got to ride a horse, jump in a Moon-Walk, fingerpaint a horse, and play games. Thats right, I said fingerpaint a horse. There was a lady who asked Ava what she wanted to paint on the white horse, and then she helped her paint it with her fingers...Ava chose to paint a blue smiley face. Cool idea I thought.

On Halloween, we spent the day setting up our trick or treat tent at my mom's. We decorated with lights, pumpkins, and candles. The kids were really excited about passing out candy to the neighborhood kids. After that, we coaxed the kids into taking a nap so that they would have energy for trick or treating.

That night we went to our church's Trunk or Treat Harvest Festival. People decorated their car trunks and passed out candy. We rode on the hayride and ate chili. The preacher said Sunday that they estimated at least 1000 people visited our church for the event.

We finished up our night at my mom and dad's home. My sister had some apple cider brewing and we sipped it as we passed out candy. Ava kept screaming, "Here come some more customers." We had to keep telling Huett, Ava, and Sam to let the customers come to them. They wanted to run to meet every kid that came up. If it was up to them, they would have provided curb-side service, drive-thru trick or treating.

Everything about the night was great. Ava is old enough now to start making memories that she will cherish for a lifetime, and I'm trying to make sure they are good ones. When you get to celebrate with family and friends, you can't ask for much else!

This is our Wizard of Oz family.

Ava as Dorothy,

Archer as the Scarecrow,

and me as the Wicked Witch of the West

without the green face paint.

Ava as she quotes,

"There's no place like home"

and clicks her heels 3 times.

Ava and Archer.
Ava said that Archer was the cutest

scarecrow in the whole wide world!

Look at that sweet grin!
It doesn't get any better than that.

The bluest eyes in Oz...

Ava wanted Archer to check out her ruby slippers.

Huett as a wizard.
Check out his magic wand...
I got that off a tree for him!
He loved it.

Sam our little cowboy.

Huett on the hayride.

Ava and me on the hayride.

Me and Mom on the hayride.

Mikey dressed up as an outlaw.

"Preschool Party"

2009-11-03T10:43:00.005-06:00

The preschool Ava attends had a Halloween Party on Friday, and they got to dress-up. I didn't want Ava to wear her "Dorothy" costume until Saturday, so I had to come up with something else for her party. We had this kimono that she plays dress-up with sometimes, so I convinced her that she would be Kai Lan from Nickolodean! It worked and all her friends loved it too. For the hair sticks, I used shish-kabob skewers! It turned out really cute, if I do say so myself!

My nephews, Huett and Sam
(super heroes were all the rave with the boys in Ava's class)
Huett and Ava

"Football Bonding"

2009-10-31T06:59:00.005-05:00

It's football season, and as much as I like to dress-up as a big-time Alabama fan, the truth is I don't know much about it. We always deck out in our team colors and go to all the fun tail-gaiting parties, but it is just for the fun. The most I can tell you about the team is the name of their coach. Honestly, I don't even remember who won the big rival game last year between Alabama and Auburn.

I wonder what this is going to mean for Archer since he just has me to teach him about football and stuff. I guess I will leave the sports education to his Uncle Mikey. Last Saturday when they were suppose to be watching a big football game, this is what me and Tiffany found:

I guess they just got tuckered out. I know Mikey already has 3 boys of his own, but I think he can make a little more room for Archer too.

"Homecoming Parade"

2009-10-29T14:21:00.005-05:00

After their trip to the Pumpkin Patch, the kids were still in store for some fun. That afternoon was our local Homecoming Parade for the highschool. They got to see all the floats, fire trucks, bands, cheerleaders, and football players.

I was back from jury duty by then, so I got to meet up with them for the parade. They had fun trying to get the candy the people were throwing them from the floats. The parade made a big loop, so not only did we get to watch it once, but twice! Ava always remembers where we've watched the parade in the past, and when we drive by that spot she will remind me, "Thats where we watched that parade." We are already looking forward to the Christmas parade this year!

Sam and Mikey

Tiff and Charlie

Archer

Ava and Huett

Ava

"Pumpkin Patch"

2009-10-29T12:01:00.003-05:00

This is the time of the year when everyone is posting about their trips to their local pumpkin patch. Their posts include beautifully orchestrated portraits of children picking out their favorite pumpkins, jumping in fallen leaves, eating a big bowl of chili, sipping on hot chocolate, and visiting the petting zoo! Let me just start by saying my post will not include those pictures this year.

I was serving on jury duty the week of the preschool trip to the pumpkin patch, so I wasn't able to go. My mom graciously volunteered to take Ava and Archer for me so that they didn't have to miss out.

I've only heard a few comments about how the trip went,
but they went something like this:

"It was crazy"

"It was raining cats and dogs when we got to the patch"

"We were outnumbered by children 4 and under"

My brother-in-law Mikey was the only one taking the pictures that day, I know you can't tell by the pictures, but my sister has a Nikon that photographs beautifully. Mikey didn't give the thing time to focus...Tiffany has promised to give him a little remedial education.

Sam, Huett, and Ava

Archer

Ava picking out her pumpkin.

Charlie

My Mom, Archer, and Sam

The Hill Brothers

Sam, Charlie, and Huett

The pictures will not win any awards, but they say a million words! The kids were just having way too much fun to stop and pause for a picture or two!

"Chris Young, Unplugged"

2009-10-28T12:28:00.046-05:00

I'm about to be 30 in December, and I'm kinda bummed about that. I can't put my finger on what actually bothers me about it the most, but I just know I don't like it. My dad always reminds me that its better than the alternative, and I have to agree with him .

Saying all of that, I want to show you how much fun an "almost 30" year old someone can have!

Chris Young is an up and coming Country Music singer who just had his first #1 hit with "Gettin' You Home". Back in 2006, he won Nashville Star. His recent success has been slow coming, but with his new album he is opening up for artists like Alan Jackson and Tim McGraw.

My brother-in-law Mikey, who just happens to be one of Chris Young's biggests fans, heard he was coming to Birmingham to do an unplugged show at a local bar to benefit the St. Jude's Foundation. Not only that, but the tickets were only $10! His new song that just went to #1 is called, "Gettin' You Home", but the chorus talks about when your black dress hits the floor. So, this upclose and personal showing turned into a Little Black Dress Party.

Back to Mikey, to help you understand his devotion to Chris Young, you would have to know that he has been to numerous shows, is a card carrying member of his fan club, and still has the episodes of Nashville Star from back in 2006 saved on his DVR! I know, he has almost crossed the line!

Mikey told us the car was leaving at 4 o'clock. You know we had to leave in plenty of time to make sure we didn't get held up in traffic, and we had to get a good place in front of the stage. Tiff, Mikey, Me, Bob, Chad, and Nick rode together in the Durango.

Bob, Nick, and Me

Tiffany(my little sister)
Chad (my little brother)

When we arrived at Cafe Firenze, you could feel the excitement in the air! The ladies had shown up in full force in their little black dresses and their black heels. I would just like to say that I spiced it up a bit by wearing a printed black dress with tights, and cute wedges! Maybe I wanted Chris to notice me from the stage, but I would never put that in my post!

Nichole, Tiffany, and Me
waiting with ticket in hand!

Bradley and Tara
Mikey and Tiffany
See that rambunctious crowd behind us? Once Chris Young hit the stage, the girls were coming out of nowhere trying to reach the front of the stage. Remember, we had been there since around 5:30...he didn't play until 7:30. Well, I don't know what it was about the atmosphere, but our little group of girls got really territorial about our spot in front of the stage. You would have thought we were trying to reach a pot of gold! I blocked people, looked them right in the eye, and said "You aren't coming through here!" I don't know what got into me. This timid, mom of 2 was ready to kick some ass and take some names! The funny thing is, the other groups of girls probably had to line up babysitters just like we did! You would have thought the guys with us would have stood up for us, but they were whining for the OTHER girls trying to just let them through! We weren't having that!

Katy and Me
Me, Nick, and Katy

This guy is the morning host
of our local radio station, "Dollar Bill".
I thought we wouldn't find anyone as excited as Mikey,
but I was WRONG!
The man himself, Chris Young.
Look at this motley crew!
We all survived the concert, and we had a BLAST!

On the way to the car,

Chad and Mikey decided to get their

crowd surfing fix out by jumping into the hedges!

Enough said...

We left the bar around 11:30, and I was ready to just get home and go to bed! But you know, theres always that one person who wants to keep the night going! Well it was Katy, and it didn't take her much convincing to get everyone to jump on board. So, everyone was telling me I was such a party-pooper, and that I needed to suck it up, so I did. We went to a bar called, "The Black Market" for late night food. Can I just say that the cuisine was delicious! We aren't talking about burgers and fries, we had Pork Quesadillas, Egg Rolls, and Chicken Salad with Pita chips. I think the next picture speaks for itself!

If there are more fun times in my future like I had that night, then I guess maybe turning 30 won't be so bad after all!

2009-10-17T11:34:00.002-05:00

crisp breeze, yard sales, vegetable soup...

"It's Not All About the Roller Coasters"

2009-10-15T10:02:00.017-05:00

Let me just start off by saying, "I Love Six Flags!" As a kid, I can't even guess how many times we ventured to Six Flags with family, friends, or on church trips. Its close enough to go in one day, but it still feels like you've gone on a trip. When we were kids, I remember my dad's rule about Six Flags...you get to pick 5 rides to skip out on...everything else you RIDE! This may not seem like such a big deal now, but then it was torture. Six Flags is known for their numerous intense, dare-devil rides. I would load the roller coasters with my dad by my side, and I would be in full blown tears. I'm not really sure if this disciplining tactic had any long-term ramifications, but now I still love Six Flags and I love to ride it all. Maybe my dad knew what he was doing after all.

I have been gearing up for a trip to Six Flags this Fall all year. I am the planner in the family, so I've been trying to throw this onto our social calendar all summer...if you've been following my blog, then you know we have had a busy year! I had finally just put my foot down and said, "Even if no one else goes, then I will just take Ava by myself." My dad was working that Sunday, so my mom decided she would go with us and we would take Archer too. I was getting excited! I told Tiffany about our plans, and she talked about it with Mikey. They decided Mikey would stay home and take care of Charlie and Tiffany would accompany us to Six Flags with Huett and Sam. My trip was really coming together!

We finally got on the road about 9 o'clock (I know, kind of a late start). We took Tiffany's car, and we all fit comfortably. We stopped on the way to buy some child harnesses and these nice neck pillows that the kids thought were funnier as hats.
Our youngest adventurer, Archer...all of 6 months old!
This picture wasn't taken the day of our trip, but I wanted to use it as an example of our method of transportation for the children. We also had an umbrella stroller with us. So, if we had a need for it, all the kids could ride. Let me just tell you, it is no small feat pushing this stroller with a load of 100 pounds around, but a mommy's gotta do what a mommy's gotta do!
We arrived at Six Flags around 12 o'clock. You would think after paying $15 to park, we would practically be on the curb beside the gate, but that wasn't the case...we had to make a little trek to get there, and we couldn't ride the trolly because we had the above mentioned stroller! We already bought our tickets online, so there was no waiting at the gate once we got there. The kids were so excited because they could see 2 or 3 of the roller coasters on the way in.

We went in the gate and took a right to the restrooms, changed the kids into their cooler outfits, and harnessed them up. Like I mentioned before, I've had my aversion to the leashing of the children, but we were out-numbered! Yes, I did look like I was walking a pack of dogs when I had all 3 of them, but it was essential to our trip. I didn't want to be searching Six Flags for a lost kid!

Our first ride of the day was the train.

We loaded the stroller on the back of the train so we all got to ride together!

Aren't we just having the best time ever!

Tiffany and the boys

Sam didn't like the LOUD toot of the train,

Huett waved at everyone we passed, non-stop!

Archer didn't like the LOUD tooting either.

Look at the pout...

Getting some lovin' from Archer, he got a lot of that through out the day.

See the peek of a woman in the right side of this picture?

That is my mom, also known as, Gran Gran.

This is the only picture we got of her, and it isn't much...

Archer being attacked again for some sugar!

Look at those sweet, brown-eyed babes.

Ava, Me, and Archer

After we road the train round-trip, we walked on. The next stop for us was the "Mine Cars". Ava wanted to ride and I remember loving this ride as a kid, so we waited in line. Ava was never nervous or frightened. She is so brave and ready to try anything. I guess she wouldn't have minded the "everything but 5" rule. It got a little rough toward the end, and she bumped her head some on the "mine car". She told me she liked it, but she didn't want to ride it again. We headed over to Bugs Bunny World. There were several rides just for kids in this area.

Ava had to ride the flying boats by herself, but she still enjoyed it,

eventhough you can't tell by her face.

Sam and Huett getting buckled in.

Sam waiting to ride the Ferris Wheel.

Huett waiting his turn.

And, taking a needed break.

Can we get one of these cages at home?

I think that would make a great place for "time outs"!

Waiting to ride the Convoy Grande.

I fed Archer while we were in Bugs Bunny World,

and this is what he did the rest of our time there.

We decided to get some lunch next. Everyone needed a break, and we were all getting hungry. Tiff bought this refillable, 48oz, plastic drink jug that we refilled probably 10 times during the day. We had chicken fingers and fries for lunch, but they weren't very good. We let the kids run around the eating area a little off their leashes! Once we got moving again, they got their second wind and we were back in business. They all usually still take a nap after lunch, but not this day!

The next stop was the ride formally known as "Monster Plantation", but the name was changed when they revamped it this season. Now it is called "Monster House". All the same characters, just cleaned up a bit. The end was a little dark and scary, but Ava and Archer weren't scared.

Here we are on our way out of the Monster House.

I had to put Archer down in the seat so he could ride along,

but once we got inside I picked him up and held him.

My favorite ride of the day was the "Log Jamboree", we just call it the log ride. Me and Ava rode together, and it was just so much fun...its always been one of my favorites! Thank goodness, we didn't get too wet, just splashed a little.

The last section of the park we went to with kid rides was the Carousel. I know you probably think, "Oh how sweet, the carousel...children smiling, families laughing, babies giggling, and so on. But would you ever think maybe a little porn? Check out the artwork on the outside of this carousel seat...I posed beside it trying not to draw anymore attention to this soft porn love scene!

Ava on her choice of horse.

Huett waving yet again.

"Sam the Ham-Bone Hill" hamming it up for the camera as usual.

Archer doing a little more napping.

Thats it! Our trip in a nutshell. Some people would think we were the ones who were nuts taking 3 preschoolers and a mere babe to Six Flags, but we had a lot of fun and made some memories too. The kids slept on the way home. Ava was asleep before we even got out of the parking lot, and the boys weren't too far behind. I might have even gotten a little sleep in on the way home.

So, to conclude. No we did not ride any roller coasters or thrill rides, but it didn't matter. We laughed, played, and enjoyed each others company all day long!