Our Happily Ever After

Having technical issues.

2012-01-22T17:05:00.003-06:00

OK, maybe it's really more of a mental issues thing. Lots going on, not enough time, too much stress. You get the picture. Same old stuff, just a different day. This last week alone consisted of: hospice being called in for Jeff's grandfather, my student count going up to 25 (yes, you read that right), having to say good-bye to our 12 year old boxer, Cleo, and the all-too-real possibility that the company Jeff has worked for for NINETEEN years telling him that unless a miracle happens, they will be shutting down in Feb. As in next month. So basically, pray for a miracle. My goal is to be back soon. In the meantime, I'll leave you with this adorableness.

****I am grateful for
1) weekends
2) green grass
3) cool breezes
4) prayers
5) ceiling fans and dark rooms at night

Wordless Wednesday - A Hot Mess, Texas Style

2012-01-11T17:26:00.000-06:00

Duchess says this would make a good western wear outfit for next pageant. For some reason, I think we'll pass!

****I am grateful for
1) hump day (will always be grateful for that)
2) Soni.c ice
3) sweet tea
4) the smell of fresh cut grass
5) the school year is almost half way over!

Every Life Has a Story...

2012-01-09T21:37:00.005-06:00

Sometimes we get so caught up in our daily hustle and bustle we forget that other people around us have things going on to. We focus on us and don't take the time to say hi to other, check on them, spend time with them, etc. I've thought about this a lot lately. And then today, we had a training and we watched this video and it's made me think about it even more. This was produced by Chick-Fil-A and they did an awesome job. *warning - you might need a Kleen.ex or two, or maybe it was just because some of these hit close to home here lately* **Don't forget to go to the bottom and pause the blog music so you can hear the music on the video.**

****I am grateful for
1) every single day, even the ones that don't go so well
2) time with family
3) Wednesday night dinners with Nana
4) all the rain we've had today!
5) the upcoming HLS&R show coming up Friday, post to come!

$4,000.00

2012-01-05T21:20:00.003-06:00

That's what's going to cost to do our FET. $4,000.00 Ouch! Damn insurance companies. We are so thankful for Chase and Emery, but would love one more (I know, that's crazy, but when you have great kids, it just kinda does that to you). I'm going to be so devastated if this doesn't work because I know it's our last shot. I wasn't quite expecting it to be that much, so now it's time to start looking at how to pay. Not sure when we're doing it exactly, but hoping some time this year. Not sure how to swing it and Disney at Christmas, but if it's meant to be, it'll happen. I don't think the Lord would lead us here if it wasn't meant to be. Please God, just let it work when it's time.

****I am grateful for
1) a Saturday with nothing major going on
2) tomorrow is Friday!
3) our awesome RE clinic
4) one last chance
5) our two totsicles

Wordless Wednesday - 100% Good (10% of the time)

2012-01-04T22:21:00.002-06:00

OK, so not totally Wordless. 1) I can't believe he was still long enough for me to actually snap a picture. But he was trying to text one of his uncles, and well, I took advantage of it. 2) His shirt reads, "100% Good (10% of the time)" That just cracks me up. Love this kid!

****I am grateful for
1) bedtime (mainly mine, but the kids' bedtime is pretty nice too) ;o)
2) humpday
3) Christmas stuff is down and put up thanks to my awesome husband!
4) Princess is doing WAY better!
5) some rain headed our way (I hope)

Happy New Year!

2012-01-03T22:48:00.005-06:00

Well Happy New Year, just a little late! I know you've all wondered where I've been and what we've been up to and I'm so sorry to have kept you waiting (ha!). We had a wonderful Christmas, spent lots of time snuggling, did a whole lot of nothing, and think the entire thing just went way too soon!!

Unfortunately, two days into our break, the Princess came down with what we (a.k.a. the pediatrician that is not our normal pediatrician but the only one we could get in to see) thought was a nasty cold. However, it turned out that it wasn't just a nasty cold, but actually a nasty case of RSV. Of course, we only learned that after we were sitting in the emergency room the day after Christmas. Oh the joys of the season. Fortunately, she is doing much better now and is quickly getting back to normal, "I'm not spoiled, just well taken care of" self!

Chase and I are back at school/work and just enjoying every moment of it (insert sarcasm). We had to go back on Monday, which was just crazy, and neither of us were really happy about it. But, we are now two days closer to summer, so at least that's a plus!

We have lots of plans for 2012 and I'm determined it's going to be a great year! Duchess' company is starting their boat shows (I'll have to do a whole post on that), we are looking into a FET (yikes and please dear Lord, Let it work), we have a Disney trip coming up (hey, it may be in December, but it's still this year) and tons of other good things going on.

Hoping everyone else has a good Christmas and wonderful New Year, one day I'll get all caught up on reading and posting... maybe!!

Here's a comparison shot to leave you with:

So, I totally can't get this bigger without making it blurry, but you get the picture. Nothing like a little comparison of New Years 2010, 2011, 2012 to make you realize just how quickly your kids are growing!

****I am grateful for
1) a wonderful vacation
2) a princess that is feeling much better
3) having Chase at the school with me, he's a bright spot in my day!
4) two days closer to summer
5) a great 2012!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T21:49:00.000-06:00

****I am grateful for
1) a wonderful Christmas
2) lots of smiles
3) cold weather
4) time with family
5) days off

Sometimes you just gotta believe...

2011-12-23T16:59:00.000-06:00

****I am grateful for
1) little reminders
2) trusting that someone up there knows more than I do down here
3) letting things go
4) reminding myself that everything will be ok
5) believing in things you can't actually see

Wordless Wednesday - Daddy's Little Princess

2011-12-21T17:25:00.000-06:00

****I am grateful for
1) her scrumptious cheeks
2) that beautiful hair
3) her precious smile
4) that adorable nose
5) our perfect little girl

Santa Visit 2011

2011-12-15T22:34:00.006-06:00

I am absolutely in love with their shirts this year... love them! Our visit went great, Emery is infatuated with Santa and was more than happy to cooperate. She froze up a little once in his lap, but not in a scared way, just a "I'm not sure what to do way." They both talked his ear off and gave him a list of things they'd like. I'd say it was a total success!

****I am grateful for
1) weekends
2) antibiotics (I'll be getting some soon, no time to be sick!)
3) afternoon naps
4) great Santa visits
5) Christmas shopping is done (now to wrap... blech!)

Wordless Wednesday - A Letter From Santa

2011-12-07T21:03:00.007-06:00

The smile says it all!

****I am grateful for
1) that huge smile with those beautiful, huge teeth (have I said I hope he grows in to those!?!?)
2) surprise letters from Santa
3) shiny envelopes
4) reinforcement for the Good List and wanting to be on it!
5) a magical time of year

Keep your eye on the prize!

2011-12-06T22:02:00.006-06:00

**Warning: Ecstatic rambling ahead!**

Infertility = IVF = crappy insurance companies don't pay = a LOT of debt.

As much as I wish I could say we did, Jeff and I don't exactly rake in the big bucks. Especially here lately. Jeff is a surveyor for a very small company that is doing good to hold it's head above water in the current state of the economy. His boss is awesome and he's worked for the company for almost 20 years. That's a big deal, not many 39 year olds have been at their job for that long. Sadly, things are rough right now and we're doing our best to hold out until things turn around. As for me, teachers don't make squat. Let's face it, we don't teach for the income! Also, I'm the insurance carrier so by the time they take all the goodies (medical insurance, dental insurance, vision, disability, life insurance, insurance in case a crazy parent wants to sue me... you get the picture) out of my check, it's missing a huge chunk.

When we learned we would have to do IVF all those years ago we had just started building a new house. A wonderful, big, beautiful layout, perfect for parties, house. So, we were faced with a decision. Break our contract and do IVF or build the house and maybe do IVF down the road some day. It was a no brainer and within a week, we had broken our contract. I don't think we could have made a better decision.

Over the years and five, 100% self-pay, IVFs, the debt has piled up. Our RE is awesome and tried to help, but even with some discounts and donated meds, the costs were unbelievable. So, we went with a company and got it all worked out and have been paying since November 2006. As we added IVFs, we increased our payments. However, today we can officially say that IVFs #1, 2, 3, and 5 are officially paid off and the kids cannot be repo'd! Words do not even describe how thrilled I am. It took us 5 years and 1 month and over $40,000 but we did it! Now all we have to do is pay off IVF #4 and we are done. (Have I ever mentioned how hard it is to pay on an IVF that didn't work or you lost your precious miracles? Cause if I haven't, it sucks.) So many times I thought we'd never get here, but I was determined to keep my eye on the prize and we made it! I think it's the first time I've ever been happy to actually see money leave my account because I knew that money meant an end of an era!!!

Someone told me that IVF was not a debt and that I should look at it as an investment. Ummm, it's a debt. I'd be willing to do it a million times over, but it's still a debt. I should have been able to spend that money ON my kids, not trying to have them.

Someone else said, my kids were priceless. They are priceless, but imagine if I'd been able to put over $40,000 away for their college. IVF was not priceless, it cost us a great deal. But again, we'd do it all over again in a heartbeat.

It's funny how people that have never had to spend money just to have a child say things. I guess it just goes to show that I know God's favor and blessings in a totally different way than others. I may have had to pay a small fortune, but my children will always know just how much they were wanted!!

****I am grateful for
1) 4/5 of our IVFs are paid off!!!!
2) final payments
3) new beginnings
4) cold, cold, cold weather
5) lights are up, tree is up (although part is not lighting up... grrrr), and stockings are hung!

Wordless Wednesday - Unconditional Love

2011-11-30T21:33:00.005-06:00

is what I have for this boy. <3

****I am grateful for
1) superheros
2) big teeth that you have to grow in to
3) freckles
4) conversations w/this six year old
5) learning what unconditional love was the moment I learned he was on his way

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T22:57:00.002-06:00

I would wish you a Happy Thanksgiving by posting adorable pictures of my children and being one of those really obnoxious Moms (can you imagine?), but apparently we were all too busy stuffing our faces to take pictures! So in lieu, I leave you with this:

Now that's funny. ;o)

****I am grateful for
1) a wonderful Thanksgiving
2) my awesome family
3) medical miracles (I have two!)
4) our frozen totsicles hanging out in Houston
5) still three whole days of vacation left!

Wordless Wednesday - Miss. Frosty

2011-11-23T20:31:00.000-06:00

OK, so maybe it's not totally "wordless." This was Emery's winter outfit from her pageant this past weekend (more on that later). There's a scarf too, but she goes nutso when I put it on her, so we pass on that. I think this little girl is just so darn pretty!

****I am grateful for
1) Miss. Frosty
2) homemade outfits
3) that adorable smile
4) lots of time with my kiddos this week
5) having so many things to be grateful for

Emery's 2 year pictures

2011-11-22T22:44:00.004-06:00

I finally got Emery's pictures taken today for her two year birthday, I know, bad mommy. Let's just say it was not a pleasant experience at all and I should have just done it myself (which I am going to go and do). The photographer was awful, they place was way too busy, we were rushed, and Emery was completely unimpressed and was in total diva mode. I *should* have brought Chase with us because he can always get her to smile, but he was with my mom and niece and they were just waking up when we were on our way to the appointment. Lazy bums, that I'm totally jealous of! Anyway, here's the two best (neither have the #2 or word "two" in them like I wanted). *sigh* At least these are cute!

****I am grateful for
1) a whole week off of work... LOVE it!
2) lots of time with family this week
3) rain... woohoo
4) Duchess is home
5) only three weeks back and work and then we're off again for Christmas break

Pageant Day! update

2011-11-13T21:36:00.008-06:00

Emery had her third pageant today and did great! Out of 9 toddlers and some very stiff competition she got third alternate and best smile. But even better, she had a great time and rocked the stage! She had no nap and it was hotter than all get-out and she never had one melt-down, so very proud of our little girl!! No photos allowed in the pageant room, but here's the two I got outside with my phone, not great, but you can see just how beautiful she is!

*edited to add: Today I found out that Emery was only two points behind the first alternate, which means that it was a very close competition. There were only two judges, which was odd, and one worked for the system, which is not right, but anyway the same judge marked her one point lower on each parts than the first runner up. That being said, had she had her blue dress on, she would have probably won because that was the same judge that "would like to see her in a darker pink or blue." LOL, can't please everyone, but just made me even prouder of my baby girl!*

Here's the outfit Nana and I made for her "Fall wear." LOVE it and she'll be wearing it on Thanksgiving for sure! Was pretty easy to make too!

****I am grateful for
1) a fun time at Disney on Ice yesterday
2) one more week of work until a whole week off for Thanksgiving!
3) two kiddos tucked warmly in their beds
4) rain in the forecast!
5) a chance to sit down and get off my feet

What I've learned over the last couple of months.

2011-11-09T21:38:00.004-06:00

~ I've learned that when one generation begins to be born, another begins to die. That is the circle of life and a very difficult lesson to learn.
~ I've learned that the world doesn't stop, or even slow down, just because you need it to or think it should. In fact, that is usually when it speeds up.
~ I've learned that things never happen just one at time. The saying, "when it rains it pours" is true. Sometimes it pours good and sometimes it pours bad. The bad just seems easier to find.
~ I've learned that last goodbyes are never good enough.
~ I've learned that time does not necessarily make things easier or better, it just makes things more tolerable. You learn to adjust to a new normal.
~ I've learned that sometimes the little things don't make a big of difference and then sometimes those little things make all the difference in the world.
~ I've learned that it's so important to say I love you every chance you get because you never know when those chances will end.
~ I've learned that you shouldn't wish the days away because you can't get them back.
~ I've learned that you should never take time with others for granted, young or old, because you never know when that time will end.
~ I've learned that sometimes you have to find a way to laugh just so you don't cry and sometimes you just have to cry.
~ I've learned that you should enjoy growing old because there are many that will never get that chance.
~ I've learned to love the people God has given me, because one day He will need them back.

A friend's twin brother was in a terrible car accident on Sunday and passed away yesterday. He was around my age with two young children. I am heartbroken for her and her family. They are some of the sweetest people I know. On November 1st he had posted a very sweet message to her on Face.book telling her how much he loved her and how grateful he was that she was his sister. I can't think of a better last message.

****I am grateful for
1) in heaven there is no suffering or pain
2) cold weather
3) meds to get Jeff feeling better
4) a warm bed to sleep in
5) my family and friends

Looking for some great holiday give-aways, search no more!

2011-11-06T20:11:00.002-06:00

****I am grateful for
1) that extra hour of sleep, even if my youngest didn't get the memo
2) cuddle time
3) awesome give aways
4) Duchess is getting all moved in
5) only two weeks until Thanksgiving break!

We aren't going to know what to do with all our time!

2011-11-03T21:25:00.003-05:00

Tonight was Chase's last ball game of the season. His last karate class (he's on a three month break) was last week. All we have left on the schedule is gymnastics with the Princess once a week. This means we've gone from having 4 nights a week jammed packed with one, two, and even three things to pretty much nothing. Our schedule has not been this free in three years and I don't think we're going to know what to do with all our time! No fears, spring ball will be here before we know it (but we're sure going to enjoy our time off between now and then)!!!!

****I am grateful for
1) my awesome husband
2) Duchess got her closing papers on the house and it should be all hers in the next few days!
3) Friday is almost here!
4) weekends, oh how I LOVE weekends
5) winter is coming, gotta love winter after all this heat we've been having

Happy Halloween - 2011

2011-10-31T21:39:00.006-05:00

***I am grateful for
1) my bed, can't wait to crawl into it
2) a weekend that's not packed to the brim
3) this Monday is over
4) seeing smiles on my kid's faces
5) a wonderful Halloween!

Wordless Wednesday (almost) - True Bravery

2011-10-26T21:12:00.003-05:00

Didn't even flinch, of course that brand new Angry Bird - Pig might have had something to do with it!

***I am grateful for
1) my brave guy
2) a big brother that wanted to show his little sister that flu shots didn't hurt
3) little surprises that can make something scary a little less scary
4) humpday!
5) only 17 school days until Thanksgiving break!

New header added to the rotation!

2011-10-23T20:22:00.002-05:00

A certain blog has a new header in the rotation, have you seen it yet? Thanks Sweetie Baby's Custom Blog Designs!!!!

****I am grateful for
1) beautiful weather
2) the little bit of rain we did get
3) a wonderful weekend
4) tomorrow's dinner is all ready to go, just needs to be heated up (yeah for me being on top of things!)
5) The school year is officially 1/4 of the way over (but who's counting?? I am!)

Chase has written a page in history... again!

2011-10-15T22:00:00.011-05:00

In January of 2009, Chase was three years old. He was little, adorable, shy, and the absolute cutest thing we had ever seen. Then he started karate and he looked like this:

Yep, he was even cuter in that crisp white uniform and was all smiles as we walked out the door to his first class. Then we got there and all he wanted was his daddy on the floor with him. His daddy gladly obliged and over the years Chase has become quite the expert in his class. We have seen many kids come and go, his school grow by leaps and bounds, and experienced lots of life events during this time. Emery has patiently (and not so patiently) sat through many a class watching her big brother do his stuff and has even picked up a thing or two herself. Each time Chase has tested I've been amazed at all he has learned and I really credit his usually excellent behavior to the discipline he has learned in this class. More than once we've almost called it quits because the time commitment has been tough on top of baseball and other things, but Chase has always made the call to stick with it. His determination and discipline paid off in a big way today. Today he wrote a page in history that can never be changed as he became the first "Tiny Tiger" in the history of his school to earn the top belt, the coveted "Tiger Belt!" I am so proud of Chase, I have always known he is destined for great things and today he has proven it once again!

Man I love this boy!

****I am grateful for
1) the chance to be his Mommy
2) the respect Chase has earned from those around him
3) the respect Chase has earned for himself
4) the accomplishments of my children
5) the smile on his face that showed just how proud of himself he was

Princess Emery is TWO!!!

2011-10-12T20:53:00.007-05:00

Today our Princess is officially TWO, officially a toddler. Well, I think 2 is when they become a toddler. Either way, she's still my baby and always will be. I look at her and she is quickly becoming a little girl. Just look at that sweet face.

If you ask her how old she is, she says four.... or five. Every once in a while it's two, but normally she likes to give herself a couple of extra years. We have decided that she will be voted "most likely to get a fake i.d." in high school (she would be in so much trouble). I'll admit, it's not only cute, it's pretty funny because she's so determined when she says it!

Nana made her another special cake so she'd have a cake on her actual birthday. We figure it was her cake and if she wanted to put her fingers in it, then so be it.
Here's a close-up of her cake, fit for a Princess I'd say. ;o)
I always wanted a daughter and when I was pregnant I had no doubt that it was a girl. Everyday I thank the Lord for both of my children and am so thankful that I have one of each, that they are healthy, happy, taken care of, and that I get to be their Mommy. Words can't even describe how awesome these last two years have been and how much joy this little girl has brought into our lives. Sometimes it still feels like a dream, the most wonderful dream I could have.

Sweet Emery,

Today you are two years old. I know I say it every time, but these two years have gone so fast. When I wrapped you in your towel this evening and held you in my arms I could feel a lump in my throat as I picture myself doing the exact same thing just two short years ago. You were so tiny, so new, so fragile. Now you are a big girl that wants to be independent and on the go. It's amazing how two years can change so much.

You do so many new things every day that it's impossible to keep up. You are a busy girl with a million different things going on! Every day brings new challenges, new skills being learned, and new things to be done!

You are loved by so many people and manage to wrap every one you meet around your little finger in a matter of seconds. Your laughter and smile are contagious and can bright even the cloudiest days.

You have recently developed a love for ice cream. To be more specific, you have recently developed a love for Blue.Bell Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream. You ask to eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. Of course we don't actually let you, but you do eat your fair share. I'm wondering if we should buy stock in Blue Bell.

You adore animals and have no fear. If Houdini walks anywhere near you, it's not long before you hear him meowing for help because he's been tackled... by you. Yoda and Leah love to cover you in kisses and for the most part you are OK with it. If you are at your limit, you have your way of letting them know.

I could go on and on about all the wonderful things going on with you, but I'll end with a thank you. Thank you for letting me be your mommy. Thank you for the "I lub yous." Thank you for the huge hugs and then sweet kisses that you give me on a daily basis. Thank you for making my life even sweeter just by being in it.

Happy 2nd birthday Emery Faith, you are my 2nd miracle, the 2nd half of why I was born!

~ Mommy

****I am grateful for
1) two awesome, unbelievable years
2) that good things come to those that wait
3) being stubborn, if I weren't I would have given up way too soon
4) that things happen for a reason
5) that someone up there knows what he is doing

Princess Emery's 2nd Birthday Bash!

2011-10-08T22:15:00.015-05:00

Somebody had an awesome birthday party today to celebrate her 2nd birthday!!!! Nothing like celebrating two awesome years with with tons of wonderful family and friends!!! I would post pics of them, but since the blog is public and I don't have permission, I hate to do that. However, here are some of our day! I realized I don't have any of big brother, some how I've got to get that boy to stay still and take pictures!!!!

****I am grateful for
1) a day that wasn't too hot
2) a wonderful birthday party!
3) celebrations!
4) family and friends
5) that smile on her face!!

Wordless Wednesday - Big Brother, Little Sister

2011-10-05T21:26:00.002-05:00

****I am grateful for

1) that they have each other
2) that I have them
3) that some things will never change
4) that some things will change
5) that Duchess got some awesome news today (let's just say that "to grandmother's house we go" will be a LOT closer!)

3 weeks to the day, 2 people we loved

2011-09-25T08:02:00.003-05:00

Yesterday morning my great-aunt passed away. I am sad. I was not technically named after her, but my name is Kahla Ann and hers was Ann Kahla so she liked to claim I was. She was a wonderful lady, beautiful inside and out. She was 87 and had been married to my Uncle Joe for 70 1/2 years, literally a lifetime. The last report we had gotten, she was doing better. I can't help but picture that her husband, children, and grandchildren are going through what we did just three weeks ago. Waiting and thinking, "Oh good, things are getting better." And then suddenly they are not better, they are a zillion times worse and can't be fixed.

Once again my heart is aching for my Nana. When she called yesterday morning it was early, we were all still asleep. I knew something was wrong before the words were out of her mouth. She is devastated. Nana was the youngest of three and the only girl. She was 6 when her brother married Ann. She was literally like a sister to Nana. She watched her grow up and they became very close friends. As Nana cried over the phone and said, "I just lost my husband, now I've lost my only sister," I cried silent tears for her, for my other family members, for the pain that is running rampant in our family right now that can't be stopped.

I am leery that things are not going to be better any time soon. Jeff's grandfather, Greatpa, is in the hospital and not doing well at all. He has been losing weight, not eating, and wanting to sleep a lot. He got what they thought was thrush in his mouth, but even with treatment it continued to get worse. To the point he 100% would not eat and his mouth was bleeding and oozing. They took him to the ER and they were told it was throat cancer. Fortunately it's not. Instead they believe he is having a reaction to something, possibly his arthritis medicine. He was admitted to the hospital immediately, put on morphine and re-hydrated. They've done some blood work, but we have very little information right now and apparently the doctors are not answering questions or even really talking to family like they should. We do know his platelet count is an 8, which is much too low, and that he is at an extremely high risk for infection which could be fatal. Because of this, visitors have been very limited and we have not been up there. There is no way he could see the kids, which I hate, but 100% agree with and understand. If anyone knows how germy kids are, it's me! Jeff and I are going to go up later today and can see him if we where masks, gloves. I'm going to take a picture of the kids up to him. I'm so worried. Jeff does not think his grandfather will make it out of the hospital, I have that same fear. I pray we are both wrong.

****I am grateful for
1) any prayers sent our way
2) family that is always there for you
3) pictures, because I can take him that
4) my husband, having him by my side always makes things a little more bearable
5) the love between my children

Wordless Wednesday: A Few of My Favorite Things!

2011-09-20T21:11:00.002-05:00

****I am grateful for
1) our wonderful Duchess
2) technology
3) family time
4) little giggles
5) learning new things

Friday Night Leftovers

2011-09-16T22:10:00.003-05:00

~ I am so glad this week is over. I feel like I'm living for weekends right now. If only they didn't go so fast!

~ Last Saturday my Great Aunt Ann (my grandmother's SIL) had a heart attack. She is 87. Fortunately she is doing better than they expected.

~ Jeff's Aunt Carol was put in the hospital today with 100% and 90% blockage in her carotid arteries. This is his mom's oldest sister and we are very close to them. Prayers please and thank you.

~ Chase had a rough week at school, which is not like him. I think it's just his way of dealing with everything going on. Nothing bad, just talking a lot and not focusing. Hoping it was a just a one week thing. He is really a good boy and I'm very thankful. Not sure I could handle this every week.

~ Emery started a tumbling class this past Thursday. Once a week for 45 minutes. We have been to birthday parties at this gym and she loved it. However, she was not so happy with the class. We are going to have to work on following directions and not doing what we want, when we want. Hard lesson! I think in time she'll really enjoy going.

~ Our schedule is just insanely busy. Not sure how we're going to work all this in, but I guess we'll figure it out somehow.

~ Our temperatures have actually been slightly cooler. It was above 100 a couple of days, but I'll take a couple of days over a month any time! We are actually supposed to get some highs in the low 90s, I'm so excited. October, November, and December are my favorite time of year and I look forward to the cooler weather! (Well, I actually love June, July, and part of August an awful lot too, but it's soooo hot during those times!) We may even get some rain which is SUPER exciting!

I guess that pretty much sums up what's going on. Hope everyone else is having an awesome weekend!

****I am grateful for
1) the possibility of rain
2) cooler temperatures
3) the weekends
4) Duchess is home from her business trip, safe and sound
5) all my papers from the week are graded and in the computer, no work on the weekend!

Princess Emery is 23 months old!

2011-09-12T21:43:00.010-05:00

Bittersweet... man I love this little girl!

She talks in whole sentences now.

Tonight she learned how to open the baby gate at the bottom of the stairs.

She is a bit of a drama queen at times (and I secretly love it).

She lights up the room just by being in it.

She has the cutest little laugh and it's totally contagious.

She is very busy and pretty much goes nonstop.
She loves to pose and is very girly (I secretly love that too).

Not a day goes by that she doesn't cease to amaze me. She's more than we ever could have imagined, more than we ever could have dreamed she'd be. Words could never say just how thankful I am to be her mommy!

****I am grateful for
1) 23 wonderful, awesome months
2) beautiful blue skies
3) rainbows
4) the wind
5) a chance to be her Mommy

One Week

2011-09-10T22:26:00.005-05:00

It's been one week since we lost Paw. It's been a long week with lots of tears and smiles and memories. On Labor Day we had a service and all five of his children, 10 of his 11 living grandchildren, and 8 of his 11 great-grandchildren were there to honor him. It was an amazing service for a man that will be so missed. On Tuesday we had a private family farewell at sea. He was a retired merchant marine and had spent most of his life at sea, so it seemed very fitting. Tears are still coming at random times and my thoughts are turning to him a lot. I guess that's normal. The kids are doing well, my grandmother is holding strong, and things are slowly returning to the new normal, whatever that is. Chase has amazed me with his maturity throughout this. He is wise beyond his years. I know that Paw is watching over us in heaven and have no doubt that he'll be Emery's guardian angel through the years. He loved her so much, they had a very special bond. It breaks my heart that she is so little and will forget him (now of course we won't let that happen). The above picture is really the only good picture we have of the two of them. I should have taken more. I'm so gonna miss him.

****I am grateful for
1) all the family that was here
2) years of memories
3) guardian angels
4) pictures
5) knowing that things will be OK

Today my Princess lost one of her favorite playmates and I....

2011-09-03T23:23:00.003-05:00

lost one of the greatest men I've ever known. I feel like my heart is broken into a million pieces.
I did not expect this. I knew he'd be fine. I was not prepared. I am not prepared. What do I tell my children? What do I tell the princess? Princess' deserve to have their Paw and now mine doesn't. I'm terrified for my grandmother, she is devastated. I'm heartbroken for my mom. I can hear the nurses words so clear and when the doctor came in I just wanted to scream. It feels like a very bad dream that I can't wake up from. 12 years ago he gave me away at our wedding. I wish I had 12 more years with him. It just doesn't seem fair.

***I am grateful for
1) he is not suffering
2) all the family
3) every single moment we had together
4) that my children got to know him
5) that he got to know my children

Who is that girl in the mirror?

2011-09-01T22:13:00.006-05:00

I hate getting older. When I look in the mirror, all I can think is, "who is that girl?" There are a lot more gray hairs peeking out of the brown, my eyes have bags under them, I have wrinkles showing up in places that used to be smooth. My skin no longer has that flawless complexion, instead it now has age spots scattered throughout and we won't even go into the weight thing. Oh to weigh what I did when we got married. I feel like the last few years have aged me so much. Maybe it was all the IVFs, the stress. I don't know.

Unfortunately it's not just me that is getting older. I never really had to deal with death growing up. My twin sister passed away when we were only 6 weeks old and then the only other death near me was my mother's biological dad when I was about 8 or 9. We were not close and I don't think I really "got" it. Now that I'm getting older, those I love are getting older too. Great grandparents have all passed on (my last great-grandmother passed just after we lost the twins), grandparents are aging, parents are aging. I'm watching strong bodies become weak and frail. Steady hands become shaky. Memories fade away. And I hate it.

My grandfather, the one that Emery stays with during the day and is one of her favorite playmates, is back in the hospital. Again. Originally it was a pacemaker alert that his heartbeat was irregular. They shocked it back into a normal sinus rhythm, fortunately he was asleep when they did it, and he was still doing well this evening. However, the partner to his doctor came in and said that his lab results are showing signs of kidney failure and they are concerned. A specialist will be coming in because they want to avoid "full-blown kidney failure." She was very serious when she said it. I asked if that is what the blood work was pointing to and she made a sly headshake, as if trying to keep it from him. It makes a lump in my throat.

I know that I am blessed and fortunate because I have been given many, many years with grandparents/great grandparents. We have a five generation picture with Chase, myself, my mom, my aunt (my grandfather is the one that had passed away) and my great-grandmother/Chase's great-great grandmother. That's a rare fate. I was 32. What 32 year old still has great grandparents alive? I'm blessed. My children have three great grandparents alive and get to spend a great deal of time with them. I'm thankful. But I still hate it.

I guess my heart is heavy tonight. I want to slow time time. I want to stop the aging. I want to take care of the ones I love and make sure they are safe and healthy. Who is that girl in the mirror and where did she come from? I can't be me, I'm not that old.

****I am thankful for
1) every single day
2) grandparents
3) great grandparents
4) good medical care
5) time, the good and the bad parts

Friday Night Leftovers... on Sunday

2011-08-28T18:40:00.002-05:00

~ School started this week. Chase loves his classes and is happy to be back with his friends.

~ I can already tell this year is going to be a challenge for me. This is my 10th year of teaching and I have really had doubts lately that this is what I'm meant to do. :o( Makes me a little sad. I'm just not enjoying it like I used to (and I know it's totally grade related). Right now I'm making it day to day.

~ I do not like starting school on a Monday. It made for a long week for the kids and for the teachers.

~ The beginning of the school year is always so hard because everyone is trying to get back into the swing of things. I keep telling myself it'll get better.

~ We seriously need some rain. It is hot and dry and miserable. All the stores are moving in winter clothes and yet it's 109 out. Crazy. I don't think we've had a day under 100 in a month now. This coming weekend we are supposed to get rain and temps in the 90's. I pray it happens!

~ Emery is talking in sentences. It's crazy. She is growing up too fast! Her favorite sentence is, "I got it!." She uses this for everything. She also loves to shop. That girl is definitely going to have to be put on a spending budget when she's older!!

~ Chase has grown 2 shoe sizes since the end of May. 2!!!! Talk about a mega growth spurt!

~ Emery was diagnosed with walking pneumonia last Saturday. I'm not even sure what my last post said but when I got home Friday evening she was really having a hard time breathing and was running a fever. Took her in on Saturday and walking pneumonia it was. She is much better now thanks to some awesome antibiotics and lots of TLC. Bad news is now my grandpa has it, although they said it's from going in and out of the heat/ac. He is on some good antibiotics and will go back on Wednesday. Prayers appreciated!

~ Totally not looking forward to tomorrow, Mondays are by far my least favorite day of the week!

****I am grateful for
1) good movies
2) family time
3) Duchess made it home safe and sound
4) opportunities working on the horizon
5) cereal for dinner

12 Years - The Past, The Present, and The Future

2011-08-21T16:24:00.003-05:00

12 years ago I married my soulmate, my best-friend, and my companion of a lifetime. It hasn't always been easy and we've faced some really hard moments, but we've always faced them together. We've made memories that will last forever and have cried tears of joys and tears of pain on eachother's shoulders. He makes me a better person and for that I am forever grateful. I know that no matter what, he will always be by my side. He is my protector, my provider, the love of my life. Happy Anniversary Jeffrey, you are the best husband I could ask for (someone really knew what he was doing up there) and I'm so grateful to have you in my life. I am a blessed woman to have you as my husband and the father of our children. Thank you for all you do my love, I can't even imagine a lifetime without you! Here's to our past, our present, and our future!

****I am grateful for
1) 12 awesome years!
2) our past, our present, and our future
3) memories made together
4) the tears of joy and the tears of pain
5) having Jeff by my side forever and ever

Friday Night Leftovers

2011-08-19T23:13:00.002-05:00

~ Yoda, the French Bulldog had his "big" vet visit this week and now both dogs are fixed! No French/English bulldogs puppies for us thank you very much! Princess Leia's eyes are looking great and the vet believes her surgery can be deemed a success. :o)

~ Chase met his teacher tonight and is finally sort of excited about going back to school since he got to see his friends. That's one downside to being a teacher, I never get to take him to the functions like Meet the Teacher/Open House/etc. But I guess that's makes Daddy feel important.

~ I am totally and completely exhausted after this week, but come Monday morning school is back in session and I'm ready to go!

~ After working 13 1/2 hours today (had to stay after Meet the Teacher to sort supplies) I came home to a Princess with a fever. :o( Hate when one of them is not feeling well. Guess we'll be making a trip to the pedi in the morning if she's not doing better.

~ My foot has been giving me issues again.in. :o( Not sure what I'm going to do just yet but I think Disney World was just a little rougher than what I was ready for and I should have let it heal longer before pushing that hard. *sigh* It was feeling just a little better but after today it is hurting quite a bit tonight. So frustrating!

~ My house looks like a tornado blew through. Must clean house this weekend.

~ Two people I know found out they are having girls this week. Gives me baby fever... ack! Maybe the fact that my baby is getting to be such a big girl makes it worse.

~ Jeff's cousin, Wade, is back in the hospital. I freaking hate cancer. Please send lots of prayers.

~ We have a very laid back approach to potty training and let the kids lead because we think when they are ready, it'll be that much easier. Chase totally pottytrained himself and it was awesome. Emery has just now started showing some interest. I think when she turns two we'll start with pullups and go from there.

~ Her birthday is less than 2 months away. Crazy!

~ I can't believe my baby boy is going into to first grade. *sniff* I told Jeff that we only have 11 more years and he'll be going to college. Maybe I'm jumping the gun but it makes me sad to think of how fast 11 years goes!

~ Speaking of fast, Sunday is our 12th wedding anniversary. Sometimes it seems like we just got married yesterday and other times it feels like... 12 years.

****I am grateful for
1) class is ready to roll
2) looks like lots of great parents/students this year!
3) the challenges that lie ahead and keep life interesting
4) the weekend, so tired!
5) being home with my Princess that's not feeling well, but I know that she will feel better!

3 Years

2011-08-14T19:27:00.005-05:00

3 years ago we, I, miscarried our twins and our hearts were shattered. Looking back it is bittersweet. We long to hold them, wonder who they would look like, and what their personalities would be like, yet we know if we had not lost them then Emery would not be here. I can't even imagine life without her. Not a day goes by that I do not think of them. They are forever in our hearts.

****I am grateful for
1) time heals pain, or at least eases it a little I suppose
2) holding those moments in your heart that change your life forever
3) Chase
4) Emery
5) determination

Friday Night Leftovers

2011-08-12T16:29:00.000-05:00

I think I'm going to have to start doing Wordless Wednesdays, Friday Night Leftovers, and all those other routine blog entries in order to actually get something here on the blog!

~ Back to work today. Blech. Whoever was in charge of the calendar and decided that teachers should go back on a Friday is on my short list. We have one full week next week and then kids come back.

~ In third grade again this year despite doing everything but begging on my hands and knees to move down. Same old, "you're a strong teacher and we just need you here" stuff. I miss my babies. *sniff sniff* I've come to the conclusion that if I can't moved down next year then I'll have to request a transfer. Just the thought of that breaks my heart but I want to be back in a grade that I truly enjoy teaching.

~ Speaking of teaching, Chase is going into first this year and is not the least bit excited about going back to school. The only inkling that he is ready is the fact he wants to see his friends. I can't believe I'll have a first grader... time is flying!

~ Chase has got to be the best big brother ever. I love that every morning Emery goes in there, crawls on his bed, lays on top of him, and he actually wakes up happy and gives her a big hug. If I did that he'd yell at me, but he lets Emery do whatever she pleases (for the most part). I love that he will always be there for her.

~ Emery has taking to hopping. Full fledged, both feet up in the air, hopping. On beds, on the couch, everywhere. Adorable.

~ Just ordered Emery a new pageant dress and it should be here any day. So excited! She is scheduled for a pageant in September and November. Fun, fun!

~ Princess Leia got her cherry eyes fixed/spayed this week. She is looking good. Will post adorable pictures soon (along with the black belt pictures and the beach modeling pictures... OMG I am a slacker)!

~ The other night at dinner Emery was trying to stand up in her highchair (like always) and I told her to sit down for the trillionth time. She got right in my face and screamed, "Princesses don't sit down!" Clear as day. I about choked. If I hadn't have had witnesses I wouldn't believe it. I promptly informed her that princesses DO sit down and she would do just that. I think we are in so much trouble with this one!

Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend!

****I am grateful for
1) summer vacation, even though it's over
2) ceiling fans
3) technology
4) quiet time
5) big brothers and little sisters

Happy Birthday to My Knight is Shining Armor!

2011-08-04T08:36:00.005-05:00

Someone in our house has a birthday today and to give you a hint - it's the elder in the family! (Wonder if Jeff ever looks at this blog?) Happy Birthday Daddy, to the world you may be one person, but to us, you are the world!!! We love you!!!!!

and remember, despite the fact that you are creeping frighteningly close to big 4-0, you are....

****I am grateful for
1) awesome days spent with family
2) waterparks... sooooo nice on the 100+ degree days
3) winter will come eventually
4) central ACs
5) birthdays and my Honey!

Wordless Wednesday - Black Belts and Beaches

2011-07-27T15:31:00.002-05:00

****I am grateful for
1) Chase rocked his testings and is the first ever Tiny Tiger to earn his black belt at his school
2) a visit with family
3) beach time
4) first experiences
5) pictures to capture memories

The Blink of an Eye

2011-07-21T09:03:00.004-05:00

I'm a bad blogger, I know and I'm not afraid to admit it. Maybe not so much a bad blogger as I am a slacker blogger? It seems like so much has been going on and yet at the same time, absolutely nothing has been. Summer is flying by. I have to go back to work on the 12th and I feel like that will be here in the blink of an eye. I dread it. I LOVE being home with my babies and getting a paycheck at the same time (I know, I know, it's just not fair, but remember I CHOOSE to have my pay spread out over 12 months even though I truly only get paid for 10 contract months). Too bad I have to work the other 10 months of the year in order to get that paycheck in the summer.

The kids are doing great, Chase does not want to go back to school and has decided first grade will be too hard. I'm sure that attitude will change and he'll be fine, but new things are always scary. Last year I saw him a lot during the day because I had to go by his class to get into the building. This year that won't happen because I am being moved to a different spot in the building. Makes me a little sad. He tests for his black stripe in karate on Saturday. He is very excited about that. I was looking at him the other day and he is starting to get so big. I can't believe he'll be 7 next year. Ugh, it's bittersweet. He's really independent and awesome and fun, but I miss that little boy sometimes too. I keep reminding myself to savor every moment because it's going fast!

Emery is growing by leaps and bounds. Her vocabulary astounds me and more than once I've had people question her age because surely a 21 month old can't talk like she does. I kid you not, she goes nonstop and you can understand at least 85% of it. She has also started to sing. She has a fake microphone and will walk around singing into it. She dances anytime she hears music. A-Dorable! She loves purses, baby dolls, and anything princess. She thinks she is as big as Chase and tries to do everything he does. She gives huge hugs and lots of kisses. She is a very happy little girl and I love it!

On the 13th I had a birthday. Sadly I am now closer to 40 than I am 30. How the heck did that happen????? I mean seriously, how did that happen??!??!! I actually forgot my birthday was coming until my aunt reminded me. I guess that happens as you get older. They just aren't the same as they used to be. Your whole childhood you can't wait to grow up and then when you're finally grown-up you wish you were younger again. *sigh* So tis life I suppose.

By the way, please keep sending those prayers for Jeff's cousin Wade. If your a facebooker you can search for Prayers for Wade and follow what's going on. Mostly good days right now, but still need all the prayers possible! TIA!

Until next time....

***I am grateful for
1) I know that Chase will do great with his testing
2) the summertime I have left
3) all the rain we've been getting, pray for more
4) vacuum cleaners
5) washing machines

A very wise man once said...

2011-07-16T17:29:00.003-05:00

"Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened." ~ Dr. Seuss

My friend, Amanda, posted this on FB and immediately I knew it was one to be remembered.

****I am grateful for
1) quotable quotes
2) things that sit and make you think
3) the rain we've gotten
4) those quiet moments by yourself
5) continued prayers

Prayers needed

2011-07-14T22:21:00.002-05:00

I've mentioned Jeff's cousin that is battling cancer on here before to ask for prayers and now I'm going to do it again. Wade is 6 days older than I am, that is so young. He is a son, a brother, a father, a husband, a cousin, a friend. He is one of the nicest guys I know and I adore both him and his wife. They are some of my favorite in-laws. They have a little boy and a little girl. He has been battling cancer for many years now. It's been a lot of up and a lot of down. Recently the news was that all of the spots had grown and they ended up starting a trial pill form of chemo this last weekend. Then he started coughing up blood. For fear of getting the details wrong (my head just swirls as I listen because I have a hard time comprehending that something so bad can happen to someone so nice) I will just say that the news has not gotten better. I can't imagine what Wade and Katie are feeling, I can't imagine what his parents are feeling. You have a child that you would do anything to protect and yet something is attacking them that you can't control. Just can't comprehend it at all. If you have minute, it doesn't take long, please lift them up in your prayers. For strength, for healing, for understanding, for a miracle. I would be forever grateful.

****I am grateful for
1) family that prays
2) friends that pray
3) knowing God hears our prayers
4) having faith
5) knowledge that we are never alone, no matter how alone we might feel

Our Little Princess (literally)

2011-07-13T16:35:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday Emery was in her first pageant and it was adorable. Now I'm not talking Toddlers and Tiaras, but a natural pageant. No make-up, Sunday best, down home, cute kiddos kind. Yes, there was a glitz part, but we didn't do that one. I really just did it for fun, but now I'm thinking we are going to do more. I know for sure we are doing one in November. Above she is wearing her Princess crown and she loves it. In the beauty portion she got most photogenic, best personality and princess (1st runner up). In the swimsuit portion she got queen. She was a little unsure at times, but for her first pageant, she did great! Here are the pictures that I took at a local park. The first two are the ones that gave her the most photogenic title.

Here she is in the "summer" portion of the pageant.

Here she is being crown queen in the swimsuit pageant. This little girls just melts my heart. I still can't believe she is 21 months old (as of the 12th). Time is just flying!

****I am grateful for
1) 21 awesome, wonderful, oh-my-gawd how did I get so lucky months!
2) one month of summer vacation still left (well, almost one whole month)
3) Humpday
4) the smell of fresh cut grass
5) problems being solved

Finishing up Disney (for now)

2011-07-12T22:44:00.012-05:00

I'm thinking I'd better go ahead and finish up Disney so I can move on to other things! So, here we go (for now)....

I swear Emery was just amazed the entire time

Emery and Minnie became fast friends

Emery did NOT want to let her go

Isn't it amazing that even the clouds at Disney World look like Mickey (can you see him looking to the left?)

Emery LOVED every single princess, and they loved her

Chase was quite smitten as well (I love the look on his face)

This is how they looked as we left Disney, I think they were already dreaming of our next trip (which believe it or not, is already in the makings!)

****I am grateful for
1) a wonderful family vacation
2) birthdays
3) exciting things on the horizon
4) Disney and getting to experience it through the eyes of my children
5) my family, oh I how love them

Back to Disney World

2011-07-06T22:57:00.000-05:00

Emery was up bright and early (not really) the next day to hit Hollywood Studios.

Chase's spaghetti cupcake at lunch... creative!

Riding Star Tours, one of Chase's favorites! The new ride is really neat and Chase got to ride it like 7 times while we were there!

We ate LOTS of popcorn.
Uncle Will and Emery kicked bootie on Toy Story Mania!

Fantasmic was just as awesome as last time!

When we got back to the hotel Emery was a little sad because she didn't want to nap and miss all the fun. One of the Mousekeepers had found this balloon left behind in another room and thought it would cheer her up... it did!

Finally Mommy gave in and let Emery get in on the swimming fun.

That evening we were off to Magic Kingdom again to dine at Crystal Palace... Jeff's favorite! The kids liked it too!

Another great day!

****I am grateful for
1) the rain, it's been awesome!
2) my Tahoe is fixed and I have power steering again
3) vacuumed floors
4) still got over a month of summer
5) Hump Day

Happy Fourth of July

2011-07-05T23:21:00.006-05:00

Trying to get these two to sit still at the same time is pretty much impossible, so this is as good as it gets! Happy Independence Day America and thank you to all of those that have served are serving to bring us our freedom!

And just because he is awesome enough to let the lizard do it:

****I am grateful for
1) a great weekend
2) freedom
3) those that sacrifice for others
4) rain is coming
5) much needed breaks

The Collar of Shame (sorry, it's still not back to the Disney Memories)

2011-06-30T23:09:00.003-05:00

When we got home we also had a little French Bulldog that had a hot spot on the back of his head. Of course hot spots are itchy and hurt and he would not leave it alone for anything. We went ahead and shaved it which helped a lot, but in the end, he still has to wear the, "collar of shame." If you get that, I know you are a Disney fan!

Our poor little guy, he HATES it... but I really can't blame him! It is kinda funny though!

****I am grateful for
1) collars of shame
2) antibiotics for kids and doggies
3) almost the weekend and I LOVE me some weekends
4) chance of rain soon, please God, let it rain!
5) swimming pools, it is HOT out there!

Please excuse the Disney Memories interruption.

2011-06-28T21:24:00.004-05:00

Not only did we come home with lots of wonderful memories and pictures from our Disney trip, we also came home with a VERY nasty virus. Well, Emery and I did. Long story short, the day before we came home Emery started having some mega nasty diapers. I'm talking the kind you need to wear a gas mask just to take their pants off before changing the actual diaper. And not just one a day, more like 6, 7, 10 of these diapers a day. We knew it was a virus because 1) you just know and 2) I caught it the following day. Fortunately she was only miserable when she was tired or it was time to change the diaper because she quickly got a rash despite our best efforts. That meant that for the most part she was still our happy little princess.

On Sunday she began with the green snot which made us worry that perhaps it was a virus and an infection. Monday I took her to the doctor where they confirmed there was something going around everywhere, it was viral, it caused a green snotty nose/possible spots on her belly, and yes, she had it. We were told to give it another week (which would have been yesterday) and to bring her back if there were still issues and they would put her on an antibiotic.

So to recap, Wednesday Emery comes down with virus, Thursday I come down with virus/we fly home, Sunday add in green/snotty nose, and Monday doctor confirms. So we go all last week with the two of us fighting this virus. Thursday she starts developing green goop in her eyes and I start thinking she probably has a sinus infection too at this point. I consult Dr. Google who says a little is normal with fighting a virus, so I decide to wait it out until Monday. On Friday evening we notice blood/puss draining from her ear and I know that we aren't going to make it to Monday.

Fortunately our pedi always has one of the satellite clinics open on Saturday mornings, so we called the answering service to find which one it was and I was there 10 minutes after they opened Saturday morning. Dr. confirmed that she does have a sinus infection and while her left ear looked great, her right ear was draining like crazy. One round of antibiotics ordered and ear drops. Have I mentioned she is not the awesome medicine taker that her brother is?

You'll probably think I'm making this next part up, but Saturday evening Chase started complaining that his ear hurt. He's not really a complainer so I figured we'd better play it safe and run by Urgent Care. Double Ear Infection. Blech! Apparently a pretty bad one at that. That kid has got one high pain tolerance!

Anyway, 13 days after Emery came down with the virus it looks like she is finally kicking it. I too am on the mend. :o) Chase said he was feeling better within hours of his first dose of meds, so I'm thinking maybe our house is on it's way to be healthy again?!?!??!

As for the Disney pictures, I'll get back to posting those tomorrow (or the next day, we all know I'm a slacker).

****I am grateful for
1) Saturday hours with the pedi
2) summer vacation
3) extra time with my kiddos
4) being on the mend
5) Sonic ice (if you have a Sonic near you, you know what I mean)

Disney World Day 2 - Dinner at Cinderella's Royal Table in the Castle

2011-06-23T19:31:00.000-05:00

Despite this being our third trip to Disney World since having children and having character meals every single time, we had yet to eat at Cinderella's Royal Table at The Castle. We changed that this trip! Before we had left we had picked the girls up princess dresses. Chase had come across the bone pirate costume and wanted that exact one. Being the awesome mom I am, I totally put off finding it and then when I tried, I couldn't. Talk about a sad little guy. However, Disney came to the rescue and lo and behold we found it in the park. I'm sure glad we did because I absolutely adore this picture!

Of course, the girls looked pretty cute too!

Emery was awestruck at the site of Cinderella.

We don't have a scanner so this is a picture of a picture, but trust me, the real picture is awesome!
There were also four other princesses at the castle.

Snow White

Belle (not sure why she's in her regular dress and not her fancy princess dress)
Aurora (a.k.a. Sleeping Beauty) Mental Note: Take all spinning wheels out of the house when Emery is turning 16... ha! That was her tip to us.

Hmmm, I thought Ariel was there too, but don't have her picture on the computer. Perhaps it's just on the camera which is still upstairs. Guess I'll look into that later. ;o)

A great evening to end a great day!

****I am grateful for
1) Hump Day, even like it in the summer
2) technology
3) Duchess will be home next week
4) DVR, without it we'd never get to watch what we want to
5) one-on-one time

Disney World Day 2 - Animal Kingdom and a song fit for a Princess

2011-06-21T18:24:00.000-05:00

We got up not so bright and early (ha!) on Wednesday, grabbed some breakfast and headed on over to Animal Kingdom. We had originally planned on going to Magic Kingdom (hence our pirate shirts) but if you're going to be flexible anywhere, it needs to be at Disney!

I was trying to get all three in their matching shirts, but Emery was not in a picture mood. Chase and Madison were more than happy to oblige though. Can you believe that Mads is only one week shy of being three months older than Chase. She is going to be TALL!

Finally Emery agreed to a picture if they big kids would sit beside her.
When I booked this trip months and months ago they big kids said they would walk this time so we didn't have to get a stroller. I should have gotten it on video because within minutes of getting there, we had a stroller. We attempted to have Emery sit in the stroller and then let the big kids rotate. In the end the big kids took over the stroller and Emery sat on top. I think I have a picture of that later. Hey, it worked!

I love that the characters are always in their role. Of course everyone fell in love with Emery, how could they resist? I think she thought she was in her own personal episode of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse!
We were going on the safari ride and had a few minutes to kill, so we let the kids get inked. Let me just say that this will be the only ink they are ever allowed to get! Emery LOVED her Minnie and was so sad when it had to come off.

Chase likes all things pirate right now.

One of the Disney Castmembers was walking around entertaining and making up songs. He made a personalized princess song for our little princess. Loved it! Sorry the footage is not so hard, it's hard to hold a princess and try to record a song. The song makes up for the view!

Next up: Disney World Day 2 - Dinner at Cinderella's Royal Table in The Castle

****I am grateful for
1) getting off my feet
2) central air, it is soooo hot in Texas already
3) technology
4) laughing until you cry
5) good hair days (not that I had one, just saying I'm grateful for when they do happen)

Disney World Day 1 - Magic Kingdom and Meeting the Mouse for the 1st time

2011-06-20T20:52:00.000-05:00

If you look out the window, you can see how you know you are close to Disney World. This is the only one we've ever seen, but perhaps there are more somewhere. It's amazing all the "hidden" Mickeys you find in this area!

The Disney World gates, it's like entering into a new world.
When we arrived at our hotel, all the computers were down because they had brought on the new Hawaiian hotel the night before and it had caused some unexpected issues. Since computers were down, they had no way to give us our room keys or check us in. We hadn't planned on visiting the parks that day and did not have park tickets to use. So, they handed us six one day passes (my cousin was with us), told us to go enjoy the parks for a while on them, and then come
back later to check in. We did just that and headed straight to Magic Kingdom. Right from the start we knew we wanted to go meet Minnie and Mickey. They had a 30 minute wait, but to be honest, that is nothing at Disney World! The minute Emery spotted them she was in awww. This was the only time she was even the slightest bit hesitant, I think she just couldn't believe they were real! Sorry for the crummy quality, the camera card is upstairs and I'm too lazy to go get it (in my defense, the Princess and I both got a lovely virus at the end of the trip and I'm feeling icky) so these are from the phone. I'll post the good ones later!

When you leave Minnie and Mickey's meeting room you naturally find yourself right smack dab in the middle of a store. How convienent. Even though Chase already had three pairs of ears and the magician's hat with ears and Emery had a set of ears, we couldn't resist picking up another pair. Besides, Emery's first pair are the infant size, she liked the big girl ones! I would say if you are going to Disney and looking for good souveniers, these are worth the money. They are about 20ish and then only 3 more to get your name embroidered on them. Totally worth it.

Plus they literally have 100s of styles to choose from! Even Duchess was fair game with the ears (hope she doesn't kill me for posting this). She only borrowed Emery's long enough to amuse me and make Emery laugh!

Good times baby, good times! I don't think you can really tell, but the background of Duchess' picture is The Pirates of the Caribbean ride. I think it is one of Chase's favorites! It's also nice because the line moves fast and you are in the air conditioning as you wait! Two more pluses!

We went ahead a rode a few rides and then headed back to the hotel. Unfortunately we still has some issues with the hotel (one of the rooms wreaked of smoke, our porta-crib was not delivered until after Emery fell asleep, and it took another 48 hours to get our mini-fridge delivered), but eventually we managed to get all settled in for the night. Our Disney trip was under way!

Next up: Disney World Day 2 - Animal Kingdom

****I am grateful for
1) problems that work themselves out
2) the chance of rain this week, we so need it
3) my little cuddle bug and my big cuddle bug
4) a delicious dinner
5) fans at night, for the cool air and the noise

Happy Father's Day to the Best Daddy Ever!

2011-06-19T21:38:00.003-05:00

When I married Jeff I knew I had just caught the best husband ever, but it turns out he's the best Daddy too! Happy Father's Day Daddy!!!!! Of course we want to say Happy Father's Day to PawPaw too, someone had to pass those awesome Daddy genes along to Jeff and we know exactly who it was! If you haven't seen this video, it is hilarious! They showed it at church this morning and even though we had seen it before, it was just as funny this time.

****I am grateful for
1) an awesome husband
2) a great daddy to my kiddos
3) a great father in law that is the dad I never had growing up
4) spending the day with MeMaw and Pawpaw, we missed them while we were gone
5) family time

We're baaaack!

2011-06-18T20:55:00.011-05:00

We arrived home late Thursday evening and while we had a blast, it is sooo nice to be back in our own beds. I kid you not that both kids were asleep within three minutes of laying down in their own beds! I'll have to post in pieces since there are so many pictures (many of which I'm waiting for official Disney ones, but until the CD is ordered, I can't get them... don't worry, it'll be soon).

This was Emery's first plane ride and she did great! I think she enjoys it as much as her brother!

We actually flew in to Tampa and spent two nights there before heading to Disney. We had a lovely condo that was just across the street from the beach. The kids loved the sand and the shells. The shells were just beautiful. Seeing as how the Gulf is part of the biggest shipping line, our beaches are nothing like Florida's. It was just beautiful! We also went on a dolphin excursion and got to see lots of dolphins. They even played with the boats, swimming along beside us. Awesome!

After our excursion we had some delicious seafood. I love little hole in the wall places, they always turn out to be so good. We even snacked on some alligator, yum! All I could think about was Swamp People... ha!

I'll start posting Disney pictures in the next post, but here's a picture to wet your appetite (and probably one of my favorite pictures from the trip):

****I am grateful for
1) my bed
2) kids all snuggled in their beds
3) lots of time with family
4) a wonderful trip
5) our home

We're at Disney World, but we'll be back soon!!!

2011-06-07T09:46:00.000-05:00

It's official.

2011-05-26T11:12:00.011-05:00

We have a first grader. I made it through the whole thing without crying, sent everyone on their way to go enjoy the day (I have to be back at work at noon), sat down at the table to upload pics and videos and then the tears came. For so long I honestly wondered if we ever ever even get to experience being parents and I'm so very grateful that we are getting to live this journey. I don't know why I'm this blessed, but I'll take it.

I never truly understood the saying, "time flies" until I had my children and now I just wish I could slow it down. Congratulations Chase, you have turned from my adorable baby to my handsome boy. I love you and am so, so proud of you!

****I am grateful for
1) caps and gowns and all things graduation
2) surviving kindergarten
3) that proud smile
4) the opportunity to not only parent, but to do it with Jeff
5) another day to share with my family

First Snowcones of the Season

2011-05-22T14:51:00.000-05:00

Another that sign that summer has arrived!

****I am grateful for
1) snowcones on a hot summer day
2) wedding cake snowcones... yum!
3) summer
4) ac on those really hot Texas summer days
5) cool breezes

Custom blog/signature

2011-05-21T12:04:00.002-05:00

I had a question about my signature after each post. I would LOVE to say that I had the skills to do that myself, but alas I do not. Actually, my blog was designed by Sweetie Baby's Blog Design, you can find the link on the lower left side of my blog. She is awesome and very reasonable. That being said, if you can't afford a blog makeover, you can also choose alacarte items. You should go check her out and tell her I sent you! ;o) My favorite thing, if I had to choose just one, is the rotating header I have. In fact, I'm about to add another.

Before I had my blog made over, I still had a custom signature, but I had to manually put it, like a picture each time. If you search for free signature maker, you can find a ton. I found one I liked, then I just saved it like a photo.

Hope that helps and have a super weekend!

****I am grateful for
1) weekends
2) 9 days of school left!!!
3) Disney is soooo close
4) new haircut
5) a little rain

19 months (a little late)

2011-05-20T21:41:00.000-05:00

Somebody is 19 months old now and she is busy, busy, busy! You'd probably never guess that from the pictures!

Boy I love this stage, she is so much fun! I'm amazed at her vocabulary (it is HUGE) and the fact that she can talk in sentences. The other day she said, "I want your phone." Plain as day. So not only does she speak in sentences, she knows exactly what she wants. How did I get so lucky to have these two, I must have done something really, REALLY good!

****I am grateful for
1) 19 awesome months
2) snuggle time when someone actually sits still
3) new skills every single day
4) communication
5) another week of school is history!

***

Princess can rock the Mouse Ears!

2011-05-19T05:25:00.000-05:00

When we went to Disney World last time I was seven months pregnant with Emery. Chase swears that was her first trip and there are pink Minnnie ears with her name on them to prove it! These have been on a shelf in her room since she arrived on this Earth but here recently she discovered them since she has become obsessed (total understatement) with Minnie. I finally took them down for her to put on and look in the mirror the other day. She was so excited that we had to come downstairs to show daddy. This little princess can rock the mouse ears!

****I am grateful for
1) videos on the iphone... keeps above Princess entertained during desperate times!
2) that adorable smile
3) butterflies, there have been so many lately
4) lightning bugs
5) country living where you can actually see lightning bugs

Happy Birthday Uncle Will!

2011-05-18T07:48:00.003-05:00

Today is my big brother's birthday. I'm not going to say how old he is, but it's somewhere between 36 and 38. Hope the day is spectacular Uncle Will!

***I am grateful for
1) birthdays, old and young
2) Hump Day!
3) rain (when we get it)
4) dinners together as a family
5) sunrises

Where did the time go?

2011-05-17T20:57:00.003-05:00

On Monday Chase brought this home to me (well, not home since I teach at the same school, but let's not get technical). He graduates from kindergarten on May 26th, a mere 9 days from now. When I pulled this out of his Monday folder, all I could think was, "Where did the time go?" *sniff sniff*

I am so very proud of this little guy, words just can't even describe how awesome he is. We went through so much to get him and waited so long for him, now time is going much too fast. I wish I could slow it down some. I knew that this Mommy gig would be unbelievable, but I had no idea it would be this amazing! I am so blessed!!

*On a side note his t-ball pictures were taken one month and one day before this and also came in this week. In that time he went from only missing one tooth on the bottom to the picture above. Absolutely LOVE it!!!!

*****I am grateful for
1) toothless, gappy smiles
2) every single day
3) the chance to be a mommy to this totally awesome little boy
4) summer break is so close that I can close my eyes and see it!
5) tball games in the evening, always puts a smile on my face

Getting ready for Disney World!

2011-05-15T17:44:00.005-05:00

Our trip to Disney World to celebrate Chase's and my niece's graduation is quickly approaching. I believe we have 23 days left until we check in, but only 21 until we fly out. I wanted to do matching shirts for the kids, but the prices were just crazy! Then I found Miss. Morgan's on Etsy and the problem was solved. I ordered 6 appliques and found white shirts to put them on. The appliques came in pieces and you just iron one layer on at a time. The more you do, the easier they get. They turned out adorable and were about half the cost of what custom shirts cost, including the white t-shirts to put them on. Here are the six I got, but I'm seriously thinking of ordering more. You should go check her out!

We are going to rock Disney!

****I am grateful for
1) weekends
2) birthday, my grandfather turned 88 yesterday!
3) beautiful weather (we could use some rain though)
4) Disney is coming fast!
5) 13 days of school left (well 14 counting the teachers' last day)!

This is the stuff!

2011-05-11T08:08:00.003-05:00

This time of year kicks my butt and it's only gonna get more hectic. I mean, good Lord, I'm blogging from work before the days starts... that's saying something. Ha!

Francesca Battistelli was at our church last Sunday for Mother's Day (which I just realized I haven't blogged about) and she sang this song, I was immediately in love! Don't worry, it'll be the blog song as soon as I have 10 seconds to sit down and add it to the playlist (then it'll be stuck in your head too). Don't forget to scroll to the bottom of my blog and pause the regular music to listen to this one.

I'm thinking maybe I love it because it's so perfect for my life right now. Hope you enjoy it as much as I do, this is the stuff!

****I am grateful for
1) that stupid red light ticket I got in the mail the other day, at least it was just a ticket and not worse (in my defense, I'm pretty sure I stopped before turning, but I paid it anyway)
2) unexpected refunds
3) that I have a job and family and bills, because it really means I'm blessed
4) 16 more days of school (only 15 with kids!)
5) little things that make you realize yep, you're blessed

Mental Sticky Notes

2011-05-03T21:26:00.007-05:00

I am so behind. I'm a horrible blogger lately, but in my defense we have had some serious computer issues. So, I'm going to have to just play catchup so I don't forget things

~ Emery now has 14 teeth, half as many as an adult. Crazy. Her first dentist appointment is with Chase's in June. We'll see how that goes.
~ Chase is now a double red stripe in karate. His next belt is a black belt and after that he is asking to move up to the traditional class. He did a double nun chuck form in testing on Saturday and did great.
~ Emery is talking like crazy. I don't know if I think this just because I'm her Mommy, but good Lord that girl has a HUGE vocabulary.
~ Chase had kindergarten graduation pictures done today and I just happened to be in the area when they were being done. Seeing him in that cap and gown made a lump in my throat. I can't believe my baby is going to be graduating from kindergarten.
~ Emery has started giving out random hugs. Love it.
~ Chase hit his first home run during a t ball game last night, off a pitch (not the tee). It.was.awesome!
~ Emery's hair has gotten long enough that we can put it in full piggies on the lower back of her head. Cutest thing ever!
~ Chase is not liking the Spanish thing at school and it is a struggle. He is doing great in the English part and absolutely loves math. I'm glad he loves math, it was never my subject and I really struggled with it.
~ Someone asked me today how old Emery was (people always say how small she is, but she's average) and it dawned on me that's she's closer to 2 than she is 1 now. *sniff sniff*
~ I think Chase is ready for summer. So am I.
~ Emery is trying to make fish lips, it's pretty cute. She can't do it, but oh how she tries.

I know there is a ton more to post. I have a million adorable pictures on my phone and am trying to figure out how to mobile post, but it's yet to happen. Right it's a major pain to get them posted because I have to email them, save, then upload them. One or two is fine, but if you have more than that it's so time consuming. Here's one though from this last weekend and one from tonight... I so love these two!

They are dirty, but having so much fun at a party we went to!

Cuddling while they watch a movie, makes my heart smile!

****I am grateful for
1) Disney is paid in full and less than 40 days away
2) one less terrorist in the world (now I pray for our country and troops)
3) 21 days of school left
4) state testing is over, now we wait for results (three weeks, may they speed by)

5) the beautiful weather we had this afternoon

Happy Easter

2011-04-25T16:48:00.003-05:00

We are having technical difficulties (read, totally need a new laptop) and I'm having to do a quick post from work. More to come!

****I am grateful for

1) Jesus died on the cross for me

2) He rose again

3) He saved me

4) How blessed I am.

5) time with family

Texas Tradition

2011-04-20T16:01:00.000-05:00

They don't last long, but they are beautiful while they're here! Texas Bluebonnets are my favorite flowers and it's a long standing tradition to take pictures in them every year. This year is was so bright and windy that it was hard to get good shots, but we did ok. ;o)

Simple gorgeous!

****I am grateful for
1) God's beautiful creations
2) colors, the world would be so dull without them
3) those few weeks where the Bluebonnets are in full bloom
4) pictures
5) fields that are untouched

Meet Princess Leia

2011-04-19T17:18:00.000-05:00

We are still grieving over Molly and every single night is a challenge. Chase has cried himself to sleep more than once in the recent weeks wishing she was with him. Last week we ran into a friend that had also recently lost a bulldog baby. She was shocked and saddened to hear of Molly and told us of a friend of hers that had a friend who had bulldog puppies for sale. So to keep up, a friend of a friend of a friend... literally. We went to visit the puppies on Saturday and although we had gone with the intention of picking the runt after looking at pictures, we got there and this little girl stole our hearts:

She has cherry eye which is common in this breed and will be fixed when she is spayed. She is five months old, but still a total baby. She was pretty timid at first, but is quickly coming out of her shell. She is a sweetie and everyone loves her. Yoda just wants her to play and tonight she is getting closer to doing just that.

Her name is Princess Leia (to go with Yoda of course) and it truly fits because she has two brindle ears that look like buns. We still miss our Molly and wish she were with us, but I have a feeling that Leia is going to fit right in!

****I am grateful for
1) Molly and every single moment we had with her
2) Yoda, he cracks me up
3) Princess Leia, maybe she will help us heal
4) bulldog wrinkles, so cute
5) smiles from Chase and Emery when they play with Yoda and Leia

Denture Fund

2011-04-18T21:53:00.002-05:00

We will be starting a denture fund for Chase. Please see below....

I swear this little guy is so freaking adorable. He has kindergarten graduation (cap and gown) pictures coming up, I think they are going to be priceless with this big toothless smile!

****I am grateful for
1) toothless grins
2) the Tooth Fairy
3) bed time (for me, ha!)
4) the wind, kept us nice and cool this evening
5) those little moments where you have nothing to do but just sit and relax, rare, but I love them

Princess Emery is 18 months old!

2011-04-12T21:36:00.005-05:00

Sweet Emery, Today, you are 18 months old. A year and half. Just typing that takes my breath away. Every single day my love for you grows more and more and I find myself in awe that I get to be your Mommy. You and Chase are my dreams come true and make everything in life worth it. You are growing by leaps and bounds and quickly leaving your babyhood behind so you can become a full-fledged toddler. You love to run, jump, and climb. You are constantly on the go and looking for new things to explore and tackle. Your vocabulary has grown so much I can no longer keep track of the words you say and you have no problem getting your point across. Every day you are learning new things and I'm so proud of you. You adore animals and thankfully Yoda and Houdini are very tolerant of your love. Each morning when you wake up, or wake up from your nap, you immediately want to say hi to your fish as we get you out of your crib. You also insist on telling it goodnight each evening. I truly believe that your Bubba is your most favorite person in the world and I think the feeling is reciprocated on his end. The two of you will play and entertain each other for hours and I love to watch you interact. Even during those times when ya'll are on each others nerves, you are the first one to the rescue if the other is hurt or upset. I'm so thankful for that and pray you will both always be that way! I believe your biggest accomplishment this month hasn't been walking or talking, or anything like that. This month you gave up your bottle habit! It wasn't easy and we had a few rough nights, but you are doing so well! In a way it makes me a little sad because it's just another sign you are growing up!! Sweet, sweet Emery, I love you so very much. I always dreamed what it would be like to have you in our lives, but it turns out that my dreams didn't even come close to what the reality is. Happy 18 months birthday Princess!!! Love, Mommy ****I am grateful for 1) 18 wonderful, awesome, totally irreplaceable months! 2) reality that's even better than dreams 3) milestones 4) cold sheets 5) ice cold water on a hot summer day

Got Allergies? We do!

2011-04-06T18:00:00.000-05:00

This last time Chase was hit so hard with allergy/asthma issues we went to see a pediatric allergist because things just seemed to be happening more and more often. When we met with them he was concerned because Chase is on three regular maintenance medicines and we had to add three more in just to get him over that last hump. Six medicines for a six year old is apparently a warning sign! Monday we went in for his allergy testing and it didn't take long to see we had a problem. This was his back 20 minutes after they applied the testing allergens.

32 positive results. One that was a 2 (scale of 1-4) and thirty-one that were 3+, 4, or 4+. He was allergic to something in every single category and they are all extreme. Blech! I believe there were 13 trees, lots of molds, weeds, grasses, and some other stuff that I have no clue what it is. Good news is he is not allergic to any of the animals, just dustmite dander, so that was a win. He also came back positive to pecans, walnuts, peanuts, and soy. I about lost it when I saw that because 1) he was on soy formula when he was a baby when I stopped nursing and 2) he eats peanuts and pecans a lot! When I questioned it Dr. M said that when they test, they test using the outer part, not the actual nut. So Chase has a tolerance for the nut, but is allergic to the outer. How crazy is that????

We are going to try and continue to maintain with his inhaler twice a day, his nose spray once a day (year round now), and his allergy tablet once a day (but on a higher dose). Then we'll use saline drops in the evenings too. We are getting HEPA filters for his room and the downstairs, as well as dustmite barriers for his pillows. Then we'll add in a liquid allergy medicine as needed. As long as this works, we're good. If for some reason we are having more bouts we can't control we'll readjust meds as we can. If we eventually run out of medicine options, then we'd go to allergy shots. I do not want this for him! It would be 1 shot in each arm once a week for 9 months and then 1 shot in each arm every other week for 2-2 1/2 years. He would hate that and I would hate it for him.

Gotta love allergies and Texas, right??!??!

****I am grateful for
1) no animal allergies
2) maintaining with meds
3) those few things he was not allergic to
4) knowing what he is allergic to
5) pain free testing (well, a little itching, but no needles!)

Foot Update

2011-04-05T22:11:00.005-05:00

Monday I had my stitches taken out (before racing to be with Jeff and Chase at Chase's allergy testing appointment). I think the most exciting part about having the stitches out is that I can now take a real shower without worrying about my foot getting wet, which by the way, is impossible!!!!! Dr. M said my foot looks good, in fact, it looks so good that if it were any better it wouldn't look like I had surgery! As a result, I only have to wear my walking boot through next Monday and then I can go back to my tennis shoes until my follow-up on the 18th!!!! I am so excited! While my walking boot is highly fashionable, I'll be so glad to be out of it because fashionable does not equal comfortable! ;o)

Several of you posted about having the same issue with your foot and my heart goes out to you. If you are not experiencing, words really can't describe the pain this can cause. I'm talking debilitating, make you want to cry pain. I think I posted this, but I know I went too long without getting in to a podiatrist. I dealt with the pain for about a year and then went to my regular MD. She told me stretches and exercises to do, but to be honest, I should have immediately just gone to a specialist. I truly think that had I done that in the beginning, I would not have gotten to the point of doing surgery. However, I didn't and even after doing stretches, exercises, insoles, and cortisone shots (ouch!) mine did not get better. So, surgery was my last option. It has not been easy, but I don't regret my decision at all. If you are having issues, I strongly urge you to go to a podiatrist asap so you can hopefully avoid surgery.

Now for the graphic pictures, this is my foot 11 days after surgery:

Those are not the best pics because they were taken with my phone in the dark (thank God for flash on the phone), but you get the picture. It's pretty tender because there is more pulling now that the stitches are out and it's not wrapped as well (basically just a bandaid at this point), but I can already tell it's better than it was before surgery. Hopefully I'll be back to 100% very soon!!!

****I am grateful for
1) a great recovery
2) not much longer in my walking boot
3) healing
4) beautiful weather
5) little moments that make lasting impressions

Cutest mugshot I've ever seen!

2011-04-04T21:50:00.000-05:00

On Saturday Chase lost another tooth!! Can't believe how much of a difference there is when it's a top one, totally changes his looks! My baby is growing up too fast!!!!

****I am grateful for
1) The Tooth Fairy
2) lost teeth
3) adorable mugshots
4) big, happy smiles
5) another day in paradise

Our Angels

2011-04-03T17:30:00.006-05:00

Our sweet twins should have been turning two today, instead they are in heaven watching over us. I bet Molly is sitting right beside them and their other brother (I know Chase's twin was a boy, just as I know the twins were a boy and a girl, I have no doubt). One day I'm gonna hold those four in my arms, it's going to be an awesome day! ***I am grateful for 1) Even if I never got to hold three of our sweet babies in my arms, I get to hold them in my heart forever, and I will meet them one day 2) Chase, he is truly a miracle from God 3) Emery, she is our secodn miracle from God 4) every single day, you just never know 5) Under 40 days of school left, I can do this.... right?

Opening Day & Chase's 1st Official T-Ball Game!

2011-04-02T16:05:00.017-05:00

Today was Opening Day 2011 for WYAA and it was crazy! We had a lot of fun and our Little Aggies play hard! Even though we lost by three points, they did awesome!!!! Chase got base hits both times he was up to bat AND he scored a run! He had lots and lots of family to cheer him on too! Our umpire was Coach Blake from our school and he snagged the game ball and put it in his pocket early on and threw out another one for them to play with. After the game, you'd never guess who he gave it to. ;o) How awesome that we have the official game ball from Chase's first official T-Ball game! Emery was the team cheerleader (along with her friend Lilly, who's big brother also plays on the team). She was adorable and completely worn out by the end of the game, but in her defense, it was a long day. She is even in the official team picture! Here's our day in pictures!

****I am grateful for
1) an awesome game
2) such a fun opening day
3) our awesome family
4) the game ball, thanks Coach Blake!
5) being so very blessed

Ugh, ouch, and OMG that hurt!

2011-03-29T21:25:00.005-05:00

So, way back when I was pregnant with Emery I noticed the side of my left foot hurting, like I had cracked it or something. I have a fairly high pain tolerance and just complained here and there and totally ignored it for way too long because I really didn't have time to deal with it. Pregnancy, newborn, toddler, kindergartner, karate, work, house, etc... my schedule is booked. Then last summer came and there were times that I could barely walk on it. I'd limp around like a lame duck, looking pathetic, and then just getting really, really, really pissed. I played Dr. Google and diagnosed myself with planters fasciitis of the left foot and tried stretching and all of those good things that Dr. Google says to do. Then I went to my doctor who confirmed what I thought and told me to get some good insoles and stay off of it because really, "rest is the best medicine." Umm, toddler, kindergartner, karate, work, house, etc.... rest does not fit in with those others words. So I did what I could and it got worse, and worse, and worse. My high pain tolerance was seeming less and less tolerable. Long story short I went to the podiatrist who ended up giving me three cortisone shots in the heel (holy mother of God they are like 10x worse than any IVF shot) and that would work for a little while and then the pain would return.

Now I can think of one good reason to have surgery: hello, we are hitting Disney World in less than 10 weeks and I have got to be able to do some walking!!!!! Considering I could barely walk the rodeo I knew I'd never make Disney in this shape. On the other hand, I could think of about a zillion reasons not to have surgery. Toddler, kindergartner, karate, work, house (two story house w/all the bedrooms up at that), etc... I'm telling you, you have no clue how valuable a foot is, until you can't use it!

Long story short (as if it's not too late for that), he said surgery, I said no. Then he said surgery again and shoved his thumb right into my heel, causing me to crumble into a zillion bawling pieces and I said bring it cause I think I'm going to die now. So, after postponing it one more time I finally gave in and had the surgery last Friday.

Recovery has been tough. Real tough. The Princess does not understand why I can't be at her beckon call and Chase is worried, but really he's more into the crutches and knee walker (look it up, pretty cool). Fortunately, Jeff has been awesome, he really is the.best.husband out there! The stairs are my worse enemy and even little things like going to bathroom, I know TMI, are a total nightmare. I know it was the right thing to do, but OMG this has kicked my butt. I am using muscles that I didn't even know existed and ache all over. I was told to take two weeks off minimum, but unless I want to pay $240/day back to the district, that was not going to happen. Since I didn't want to pay $240/day, I went back to work today. I now know why they say to take off. Ugh. I'm beyond exhausted and can barely move. Fortunately I have awesome co-workers who have been going out of their way to help, which I'm very grateful for.

Now that I've rambled, here is my new fashion accessory. If I'm going to wear a boot, then it's going to look good! ;o) Please ignore the dirty toes, the t-ball fields and playground are so dusty that after one step, you're covered.

Now, if you're not squeamish and can handle nasty pictures, here's a picture of my foot three days past surgery. It was briefly unwrapped, checked, and rewrapped Monday afternoon. Once I saw it I knew exactly why it hurt and was quite eager to have it covered up again. Can we just say gross? Stitches come out next Monday.

So, right now I'm just praying and begging that it heals right and I'm done with all of this nonsense for like... ever! This my friends, has just knocked me on my ass.

****I am grateful for
1) a smooth surgery
2) awesome coworkers
3) the evenings when I can rest!!!
4) every day of recovery that is behind me!
5) never having to do this again (I pray)

Some fun and totally useless information.

2011-03-25T19:24:00.002-05:00

Fun blog post for the day. Thank Amber!

Age: 34
Bed size: king
Chore you hate: 99.9% of them
Dogs: Three (French Bulldog and two boxers, just lost our English Bulldog, Molly, a few weeks ago)
Essential start to your day: lovin' from my three sweeties
Favorite color: pink and blue
Gold or silver: I like both
Height: 5’ 3"
Instruments that you can play: a little piano
Job title: Teacher and Mom
Kids: Chase - 6, Emery - 1
Live: Texas
Mom’s name: Darlene
Nicknames: Don't really have any
Overnight hospital stays: 2 different ones when I was 13 for a very severe staph infection; when I had my two children; 4 days after Chase was born I was readmitted for what we later found out was my gallbladder; then gallbladder surgery
Pet peeve: smokers (blech) and know-it-alls
Quote from a movie: "Don't make me light my butt" Raymond from Princess and the Frog... butts are VERY funny around our house
Righty or lefty: Righty
Sibling: Two - William and Katie (my twin in heaven)... technically I have more half siblings than I can count thanks to my father... at least if I ever need an organ I'm good! ha!
Time you wake up: butt crack of dawn (ha, told you butts were funny in our house)... seriously the alarm goes off at 6:00
Underwear: whatever is clean
Vegetables you dislike: cabbage... ick
What makes you run late: I have a 6 year old and a 1 year old, enough said
X-rays: foot, leg (staph infection)... I really think that's it
Yummy food you make: Enchiladas and Chicken N Dumplings
Zoo favorite animal: Giraffe

If you blog. fill out your own ABC’s and leave me a link in the comments so I can check out yours.

****I am grateful for
1) love the weekends!
2) a good surgery (more on that later)
3) a quick recovery (I pray)
4) rest
5) 9 weeks of school left until summer!

Rodeo 2011

2011-03-24T22:23:00.000-05:00

This year we frequented the Houston Live.stock Show and Rodeo twice. On the 15th Jeff and I went to see KISS and then last Saturday we took Chase to see Brad Pais.ley. I have never really listened to KISS, but Jeff loves them so I was more than happy to go. Even though I've never really been in the KISS Army, the show was good, that I'll admit! Brad was awesome too, he always is. We didn't take the camera because there are so many people and so much walking that we didn't want to deal with it, but we did snap a couple of pics with the phone. Here's Chase in front of the freshly hatched chicks:

Here he is totally enthralled with Brad Paisley

The parking was horrible and they seriously need to get that under control but the rodeo/concerts were worth it. Not to mention the one-on-one time he got with Mommy and Daddy - priceless!!!!

****I am grateful for
1) one-on-one time
2) two great concerts
3) a night out
4) a great rodeo
5) I know surgery will go well on Friday, I have faith

The Cow Outfit

2011-03-23T21:19:00.001-05:00

I've had so many people comment on this outfit:

We had rodeo tickets for last Saturday to see Brad Pais.ley (love him) and then Sunday the baby shower theme was cowboy/cowgirl. I wanted something cute for Emery to wear that would be cool and stylish so that the other babies wouldn't make fun of her. ;o) So off to the store I went and then to the sewing machine. I think it turned out so cute and it really wasn't nearly as hard as I was afraid it would be. Yes, I stayed up until four in the morning making it, but that was just because the holes in the pant legs are so tiny that they are really hard to sew ruffles on! Besides, isn't that what Mommy's do??

Now that I know how easy it was, I see lots of summer tops like this in Emery's future! Here's the whole outfit:

Adorable!

*****I am grateful for
1) my sewing machine
2) cute outfits
3) my Nana that taught me how to sew
4) creativeness
5) fun things to do

A Baby Shower of sorts

2011-03-22T21:46:00.011-05:00

Each year our awesome RE hosts an annual "baby shower" in honor of all of there patients past, present, and future. It is great because you get to see all the people that rooted you along and stood beside you through the good times and bad. They love it because they get to see all of the babies they helped bring into the world. My RE amazes me because he remembers every single persons name and story. This man is one of my heroes and I will be forever grateful for him and all the other wonderful people that helped get us our sweet babies!

They always have a yummy lunch for everyone and lots for the kiddos to do. This year our kids were in love with the petting zoo and that was the only thing Emery was really interested in doing. If this kid doesn't grow up to be a vet, I'll be shocked! Here are a few pics from our day:

Afterward we had lunch with my mom, brother, SIL and niece. The kids loved this statue, again Emery didn't want to get off. I'm telling you, in love with animals! She totally needs a pony!!!!

I love days like this one!

****I am grateful for
1) our awesome RE and his wonderful staff
2) reunions
3) great weekends
4) gorgeous weather
5) 9 1/2 weeks of school left until summer, I can do this!

A-dorable! (Flashback Wednesday... totally made that up, can you tell?)

2011-03-16T18:37:00.004-05:00

I could just eat these two up. She was obviously a little older than he was when these were taken, but not by much. As much alike as they look, she just looks like a girl to me and he looks like a boy. So freaking adorable!

****I am grateful for
1) Spring Break, I'm lovin' it
2) pre-surgery appointment done
3) beautiful weather
4) electronic coupons
5) Disney is less than three months away, which means school is out in less than three months!

When it rains, it pours...

2011-03-10T08:05:00.005-06:00

I wouldn't even believe this myself, if I hadn't been right in the middle of it. On Monday, we had to have our 17 year old cat, Chigger, put to sleep. I'm telling you, when it rains, it pours. Chigger was passing huge bloodclots (I know, TMI) and our vet said that something like that was never a good sign and that with her age, the best thing to do was to let her go. So, we did. *sigh* Now the first thing people are asking is if we think that Molly and Chigger could have gotten in to something. Trust me, that was our first concern with Molly. However, these incidents are not related in any way. We ran blood work on Molly, lots and lots of bloodwork, and it never indicated that she has some kind of toxicity from getting into something. In fact, we had almost hoped for that because then maybe we could have reversed it. In the end, it looks like this has been something that has been creeping up for a few montsh and we just dismissed the small signs as getting older (missing steps, not being able to jump on the bed as easily, peeing in the chair, etc). As for Chigger, she was a 100% indoor cat and the inside of the house is baby-proofed, so they think it was purely something to do w/old age. Good times baby, good times.

****I am grateful for
1) the years we had
2) no furbabies in pain
3) Rainbow Bridge
4) time eases pain
5) after the storm, comes the rainbow (surely ours is just around the corner)

Happy 6th Birthday Chase!

2011-03-07T10:18:00.000-06:00

Dear Chase,

Six years ago today the world got a little sweeter, a little brighter, and a whole lot more awesome! I can't believe that's it been six whole years since you came into our lives. Time is going entirely too fast and I honestly believe you are growing inches every single day. You are a joy to be around and make the days better just by being you. You are an awesome big brother and a great little man. You make me want to be better and I am so thankful that I was chosen to be your mom and share your life with you. Don't ever change and always remember that you can do anything you want and don't let anyone tell you different!

All my Love,
Mommy

****I am grateful for
1) birthdays!
2) 6 awesome, irreplaceable, totally unforgettable years!
3) all the years to come
4) that smile
5) time

The Unsinkable Molly Larson - 10/12/01 - 3/3/11

2011-03-06T21:30:00.004-06:00

The last few days have been some of the worst of my life. The last few months we have noticed a few things with Molly that we just chalked up to getting older, she was 9 1/2, and never gave it a second thought. Things like not being able to jump on the bed very well, missing a stair, and the most recent, peeing in a chair (very unlike her, she NEVER did that). Wednesday mornign when we left for work she was fine, her normal self. Then at 5:30 I got a phone call from Jeff saying that I had to get home right away because something was wrong with Molly. Fortunately my school is only about three minutes from our house, so Chase and I came straight home. When we walked in Molly had vomited and defecated (which she then walked all through), and was laying on our kitchen floor unable to move, drooling profusely, cold to the touch, and non-responsive. We rushed her to our vet where her heart was beating at 220 beats a minute and they said they think she had probably been having seizures most of the day and was in shock. They got her stable, started an IV, put her on meds to stop her brain from swelling and ran a stat EKG. I worked for a vet for years and could tell by the way they were talking that it was not good.

Chase had freaked out so we had my MIL come get him and Emery to get them away from the craziness and his mind on something else.

Once we had Molly stable, we transferred her to the emergency clinic for overnight care. Their biggest concern was that she had a brain tumor. We prayed that during the night we would see some kind of improvement, but Molly continued to seize and remained on valium and anti-swelling drugs in order to keep her from being in pain. The next morning, Jeff transferred her back to our vet.

Thursday afternoon Jeff and I made the decision to let Molly go as her prognosis was not good and I couldn't bare to think of her in pain and we both knew she could not live on valium the rest of her life. I thought it best, and Jeff agreed, that Chase not be present when we went to say goodbye. Our Molly was gone and I didn't want to have Chase see her in that condition and I knew he would never understand why his dog didn't recognize him. At 4:55, our sweet Molly earned her wings. It was one of the hardest decisions we have ever made.

Looking back, I think those little signs were leading up to this. Especially the one where she peed in the chair a couple of weeks ago. I have no doubt she had a seizure, since that happens with one. They offered to do a necropsy on her, but we chose not to because we couldn't bare them doing that to her. In the end, our vet feels it was some type of cancer. I hate cancer.

Molly was Chase's bestfriend, his constant companion. She was our baby before we had babies. She was Emery's playmate and a guardian to us all. I have no doubt that she would have laid her life down for any one of us. Our little family will forever have a hole because of her death. She was the perfect dog.

Chase has not had a very good weekend. He's having a difficult time understanding it all. His birthday is tomorrow, so that does not help any. We have chosen not to get another dog right now and will probably let him pick out another bulldog this summer when we have his birthday party (we are waiting so he can have it at the water park). I miss Molly so much, it was an awesome 9 1/2 years with her, but I sure would have liked to have 9 1/2 more.

****I am grateful for
1) Molly, she was the best dog ever
2) those 9 1/2 years, thank you Lord for letting her be in our lives
3) time to heal the pain
4) Molly is not suffering anymore
5) The twins and Molly are playing in heaven, and one day, we'll all be together again

The Joys of Boys - Gas Crisis Solved!

2011-03-01T10:10:00.004-06:00

I am not really sure how we got on the subject, but this morning Chase and I were talking about the rising gas prices and how expensive it has gotten. He got very quiet for a minute and then asked me if I knew why gas had gotten so expensive. I asked him why and he responded with, "Well, the gas people are charging a lot of money so that they can afford to go to fun places like Disney World and Seaworld. They are rude like that!" I was laughing so hard I about wet my pants. I think Chase has got it all figured out. Give them a trip to Disney or Seaworld and gas prices will go back down. If only it were that simple!

***I am grateful for

1) the joys of boys
2) that little brain of his
3) reasoning skills
4) priceless moments
5) those 5 minutes of Chase and Mommy time on the way to school each morning

What have we been up to? Well...

2011-02-26T12:12:00.011-06:00

We've been very busy! Busy....

Practicing our jumping skills!

Learning double nunchuks at karate!

Losing another tooth!

Practicing our riding skills!

Modeling the latest fashions!

Eating some really good food!

Realizing it's time for a little bang trim!

Getting lovin' from Daddy!

Showing off bangs!

Lots and lots and lots of T-Ball!

And lots of cuddle time too!

Yep, we've been busy! But don't worry, we'll be back soon!

****I am grateful for
1) being busy, it means we have many wonderful things going on!
2) a birthday coming up!
3) weekends, absolutely LOVE them!
4) Mommy and Daddy's night out
5) funny movies that make you laugh

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T19:38:00.009-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day from us to you!!!!

****I am grateful for
1) three awesome Valentine's
2) two years ago yesterday we found out the princess was on her way (even if we didn't know she was a she)
3) two little ones that are on the mend
4) bedtime is fast approaching and I'm tired!
5) cuddle time

Super fast lightning speed update

2011-02-12T14:33:00.003-06:00

Surgery went well although she had a very difficult time with the anesthesia. It was a long day. Did great yesterday, horrible night last night, started barking like a seal early this morning, then threw up all over the two of us. I knew the moment I heard her it was croup. Sure enough, after a trip to the pedi is looks like she picked up croup at the surgery center. She is now on a steroid since she just had her surgery in order to keep her from getting closed up and in the hospital. :o(

On the way to the pedi I decided to have Chase checked out too because I was pretty sure he had a sinus infection. I was right, he does. Antibiotics for him.

I'm already worn out and the day has a long way to go. Good times baby, good times.

*****I am grateful for
1) surgery was successful
2) surgery is over
3) steroids to help the princess from getting too much worse
4) antibiotics for the big big brother
5) pediatricians that are open on Saturday (even if it's not our location)

Surgery Day

2011-02-09T21:22:00.002-06:00

We have to have the princess at the surgery center at 5:30 in the morning. I don't think she's going to be very happy with me. I know we've done this before, but I'm still nervous. The roads are supposed to be icy and it's going to feel like 14 degrees out. Not sounding like very much fun. Praying they don't cancel the surgery... again. Praying it goes smoothly and the recovery is easy for her. Please send prayers too. I will be glad when it's all over.

****I am grateful for
1) surgery can fix the ear infections
2) it's a fast surgery
3) so far the surgery has not been canceled
4) 12 hours from now we'll be back home
5) hump day, woohoo

Thankful

2011-02-08T21:14:00.003-06:00

I don't know if it just seems to be happening more or if I'm just more aware of it because I have kids, but it seems like I'm hearing so many stories about young children and cancer lately. Cancer absolutely terrifies me. These stories terrify me. They completely break my heart and I find myself crying for people I've never met and never will. I grieve for them like their child is my own. Children that are the age of mine. Children that have not even gotten a chance to live their lives yet. Oh how it scares me. Dear God, I am so thankful for the health of my family and am sending so many prayers to these families that are affected. Sometimes I think I take way too much for granted. I'm totally going to work on that!

****I am grateful for
1) T-Ball tryouts are over and Chase had fun
2) Emery's surgery going smoothly, because I know it will
3) no ear infections in the last two weeks!
4) my healthy family
5) prayers for those that I don't even know

P.S. Emery's tube surgery was canceled due to the severe weather conditions last Friday, she has been rescheduled for this Thursday, as in day after tomorrow. Send prayers please, I know it's minor and what to expect, but it still scares me. :o(

I thought I had learned what I needed to know...

2011-02-01T20:19:00.003-06:00

Chase and Emery,

I thought I had learned what I needed to know. Then you burst into the world with your brilliant spirit and I realized I was just at the beginning.

Love,
Mommy

I would totally love to take credit for this but I actually came across it tonight on the internet. So, so true, I have much to learn.

****I am grateful for
1) learning
2) the opportunities I've been given
3) heat
4) hump day is almost here!
5) brilliant spirits

Disney World Take 3!

2011-01-31T18:06:00.000-06:00

When we talked to Chase and Mad's about Kinder Graduation (it's a big deal around here) and asked them what they wanted to do they both had the same answer, Disney World of course!!!! So Disney World, here we come... in June! ;o) Reservations are made, dining plans are done, and now we're just counting down the days.

We actually had five day tickets that Disney had sent us after our last trip, so that saved about $800 or so. Wait for it.... awesome! (For the How I.Met Your Mother fans out there!) We chose to stay at the All Star Movie Resort again this time. It's one of the Value resorts and the kids love it. We did the dining plan because you can do character dining with it and who wouldn't want that? We are actually eating at Cinderella's this castle for the first time and Mad's is totally excited. I am too! I think Emery is going to love all of this and yes, I know she won't remember it (she is much younger than C and E were the first time they went), but we will and we'll have the pictures! The other question we get is, "Is Emery even going to be able to ride anything?" Why of course she is! I was 7 months pregnant with her and rode 90% of the rides and walked in the July heat and did just fine. If I could ride them pregnant, she can certainly ride them now. :o)

We are going to drive for the first time this year because flying has gotten so expensive. It'll take about 16 hours but with three adults, that really isn't that bad. Plus we'll stop halfway and get a hotel for the night so the kids can get out and move. Between iPods, iPhones, DVD players, books, and the DS consoles I think we'll be just fine!

I really am so excited about Disney and can't wait to experience this again with the kids. It truly is a magical place! If anyone ever has questions about booking a trip, feel free to ask. I'm not expert, but at this point I think I'm getting pretty good!!

****I am grateful for
1) a much needed vacation (that we will then need a vacation from)
2) things that fall in to place
3) warm clothes cause we have some cold weather coming!
4) Monday down (has to be my least favorite day of the week)
5) plans being made

The toughest Tiny Tiger Ever!!!

2011-01-30T20:32:00.007-06:00

On Saturday Chase had testing for his next belt in karate. This time they decided to have all three of the schools converge and do one big testing. In all there were about 40 Tiny Tigers testing and Chase was the highest ranked out of them all... very impressive for our little guy! Words cannot describe how proud of am of this kid. Not only was he the highest ranked, he is also the only Tiny Tiger that has a weapons routine (nunchucks). Due to his ranking, he was first in line to test. I'm guessing there were no less than 500 people in the place between all the students testing, the family watching them, and the employees/judges for the schools. He didn't miss a beat, stepped right into the spotlight, and got to work! He did GREAT!!!! He now has his red stripe, which means he only has one more belt (two red stripes) before he earns his black belt! Here are a few pictures and a couple of videos from the big day.

(Other than my fat arms, the pics aren't too bad. Well, it would have been nice had the kid we got to take them not almost cut Chase off, but I'll take 'em!)

Duchess, MeMaw and PawPaw always come to cheer Chase on!

My Little Family of 4, love 'em!

****I am grateful for
1) a good weekend
2) awesome grandparents for our kids
3) my Tiny Tiger rocking his testing!
4) Mrs. Crystal, she has cut Chase's hair since he was two, we <3 her!
5) little smiles

Seriously slacking.

2011-01-24T13:42:00.003-06:00

I know I'm a bad blogger and I'm not afraid to admit it. Life is just so busy that when I actually have time to sit and blog, I'm too tired or I'm catching up on other blogs, etc. Same old excuse as always. Jeff is working 7 days a week right now, so that leaves me on parenting duty all alone and anyone who's been there knows how that is! I do not know how single moms do it!!!!

In all honesty this week was pretty boring. Work, home, homework, karate, etc. Nothing really out of the ordinary. Emery had her ENT appointment and will get her tubes on Feb. 4th. So, send prayers for that. Since this is our third round of tubes in the Larson household we know what to expect, so that is good.

*Note to Chelle about the tubes. Thanks for the comments, we loved the fact that Chase could fly w/o his ears popping when he had tubes! Too bad we aren't flying to Disney this year. OMG, speaking of Disney, that is something exciting... will get back to that. Anyway, you can take them swimming, or at least we always have and were told it was OK. We were told chlorinated water good, bath water bad. We got special ear plugs from our ENT for bath time and when we went to the beach and all went well. And actually, our beloved ENT passed away last summer and our new ENT said we did not have to use plugs at all. But I'll double-check on that one. End of note.* ;o)

Now, how could I have forgotten this important bit of info?!?!!?! I made our Disney World reservations this week! We are all set to go at the beginning of June and we cannot wait! Chase thought we were going after the 100th day of school because they have a huge caterpillar that counts to that day, so he was slightly disappointed when I explained that it would be a little longer than that. He is so cute. I'll put more notes about the Disney trip in another post.

I guess I should go now. I had Jury Duty today that ended up being canceled (woohoo) but technically I should be cleaning and not blogging since I'm home alone. That is a rarity around here! Happy Monday to all!

****I am grateful for
1) canceled jury duty!
2) Disney trip is booked
3) a Monday off
4) home alone for a bit
5) my clean house (well, it will be eventually, maybe, I hope) ;o)

15 month stats on the Princess - mental sticky

2011-01-17T15:28:00.006-06:00

The Princess had her 15 month check up today and did spectacular. She has hit all her milestones and is ahead in language development. We are going to work on getting her off those last two bottles, but they were not really concerned. It's just so stinking hard since she doesn't take a paci! Her ears still have cloudy fluid in them, but are not technically infected. She has an ENT appointment on Wednesday and they just said be prepared for tubes. We already know that's in the future, so we're not worried. Her weight is 23 lbs (50%), height 31 inches (62%), and her head... well, it's off the charts as always (lets just say in the 95%). I know that sounds totally crazy, but since it's always been huge they are not worries (as is/was Chase). No wonder labor was so rough with these two kids, their heads are freaking gigantic!! All Jeff's fault. ;o)

****I am grateful for
1) perfect progress
2) good reports
3) ENTs that can get ears taken care of
4) things that work out even when you are totally sure they won't (God is good)
5) four day work weeks

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo "Chase" Style!

2011-01-14T21:03:00.005-06:00

If you are familiar with Rodeos then you are familiar with the Houston Lives.tock Show & Rod.eo. It is a HUGE deal in Texas and a ton of fun to go to. The HLS&R is not just about horses and cowboys and rodeo clowns, it's about education and art and so many wonderful things. Our district participate in the HLS&R art shows and we have students that produce some of the most beautiful and adorable artwork you have ever seen. All kinds of art are entered from sculptures to pictures. This year Chase worked very hard on a art piece that was placed in the show! His piece was a freshly hatched chick inside a bowl. It was not your typical drawing but a more paper on paper. He started with a blue background and cut out a yellow triangle and circle. This served as the chick's head and body. He tore read paper and glued it to a bowl shape that he then put on the paper to make it look like the chick was sitting in it. After that he cut out a bright purple egg to look like the chick had hatched out of it. He was so proud and I thought it was really cute. When we arrived at the show this afternoon he was thrilled to see a beautiful, blue, FIRST PLACE, ribbon on it!!!!! It won't go to the actual HLS&R (those are Best of Show and Gold Ribbons), but in my heart, it was the most adorable one there!!!!

He was so proud!

"Surprise" - The Official Name of his piece

When we first got there... so excited!

We are so proud of our little guy!

I am such a lucky Mommy!

****I am grateful for
1) that little boy's smile
2) blue ribbons, they make him happy
3) adorable artwork (can we say framing in the future?)
4) a weekend has arrived
5) the school year is half way over!

Princess Emery is 15 months old!

2011-01-12T20:37:00.007-06:00

Sweet Princess Emery,

Today you are 15 months old! As always, I just can't believe that time is going this fast. I mean I know I should because it has gone just as fast with Chase, but it just seems like it's been working overtime with the two of you lately!

You are turning into a toddler more and more every day. You are busy, busy, busy and happy, happy, happy! You are talking, running, playing, and in to everything. Words can't even begin to describe how much we love you.

You still adore your brother and he still adores you. You can try his patience a little more now though!

Some of the words you say are, apple, meow, Mama, Dada, Bubba, Duchess, MeMaw, Pawpaw, Nana, MadMad (for Madison), Yoda, Mawee (Molly), eye, and many, many more. You talk all the time and I have a feeling it's not going to be quiet around here any time soon... which I love!

You have a mind of your own and a bit of a temper.

You can climb the stairs in about 10 seconds and try to every chance you get.

You love taking baths with your big brother and could play for hours.

You are very attached to your blankets and insist on having all of them you can find (good thing you are attached to the same kind your brother was, and still is at times, so that we have plenty)!

You do not want to give up your bottle and although we can make it through the morning without one, by naptime you are miserable and crying for it. If we try to give you a sippy you will kindly throw it across the room. I'm not saying you won't take a sippy, you just don't want it before nap time or bedtime. I'm blaming this on the fact you never would take a paci. You would be perfectly content just walking around with a bottle in your mouth all day and not even sucking on it.

Next week we go to the ENT for a tube consultation. I don't look forward to tubes, but I certainly look forward to no more ear infections!

Oh my sweet baby girl how I love you! I truly feel like my heart could burst it's so full! You and your brother are the best thing I've ever done and I couldn't be more proud.

Love, Mommy

***I am grateful for
1) my first miracle
2) my second miracle
3) my soulmate
4) weekend is almost here
5) 15 perfect in every way months!

How do you know?

2011-01-10T20:16:00.003-06:00

When we started trying for a family we just assumed it would happen. We had been responsible, waited until I was done with school, good jobs, nice home, all those things that make you think you're ready. Then it took longer than we thought. Way longer. Then we were ready for #2. And it took longer than we thought. Way longer. Now we have two frozen and I really have no idea when to use them. Even though we didn't plan it this way, the age difference between Chase and Emery is awesome (4 1/2 years). We have never dealt with any jealous issues and they get along great. I don't know if we got lucky, or if he truly understood what was going on when Emery came along. However, we're also older than we ever thought we'd be at this point in our lives. Let's just say both of us are getting a lot closer to 40 than 30 (Jeff being even closer than I am of course)! ;o) So waiting another three years just isn't really something we want to do. However, when I held our cousin's little boy at Christmas, Emery went crazy. Like trying to hit him crazy. So it makes me think that anytime soon is too soon. Ugh. How do you know? Then I tell myself these may not even make it through the thaw and if they do, they may not take. So many variables, it's just too much. We won't even go into the finances department because everyone knows the economy sucks so that's not saying anything new. Sometimes being a grown up and having to make decisions is just so darn tough!

****I am grateful for
1) being free to make decisions
2) our totsicles
3) the winter storm, love the cold weather (just not the wet/cold weather)
4) the age of technology
5) video monitors

Proof that time goes too fast.

2011-01-03T21:32:00.002-06:00

New Year 2010 on the left, New Year 2011 on the right. Just more proof that times goes way too fast, kinda makes me want to cry.

****I am grateful for
1) time
2) another year to celebrate
3) growth
4) digital cameras
5) comparisons

Our Happily Ever After

Having technical issues.

Wordless Wednesday - A Hot Mess, Texas Style

Every Life Has a Story...

$4,000.00

Wordless Wednesday - 100% Good (10% of the time)

Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas!

Sometimes you just gotta believe...

Wordless Wednesday - Daddy's Little Princess

Santa Visit 2011

Wordless Wednesday - A Letter From Santa

Keep your eye on the prize!

Wordless Wednesday - Unconditional Love

Happy Thanksgiving!

Wordless Wednesday - Miss. Frosty

Emery's 2 year pictures

Pageant Day! *update*

What I've learned over the last couple of months.

Looking for some great holiday give-aways, search no more!

We aren't going to know what to do with all our time!

Happy Halloween - 2011

Wordless Wednesday (almost) - True Bravery

New header added to the rotation!

Chase has written a page in history... again!

Princess Emery is TWO!!!

Princess Emery's 2nd Birthday Bash!

Wordless Wednesday - Big Brother, Little Sister

3 weeks to the day, 2 people we loved

Wordless Wednesday: A Few of My Favorite Things!

Friday Night Leftovers

Princess Emery is 23 months old!

One Week

Today my Princess lost one of her favorite playmates and I....

Who is that girl in the mirror?

Friday Night Leftovers... on Sunday

12 Years - The Past, The Present, and The Future

Friday Night Leftovers

3 Years

Friday Night Leftovers

Happy Birthday to My Knight is Shining Armor!

Wordless Wednesday - Black Belts and Beaches

The Blink of an Eye

A very wise man once said...

Prayers needed

Our Little Princess (literally)

Finishing up Disney (for now)

Back to Disney World

Happy Fourth of July

The Collar of Shame (sorry, it's still not back to the Disney Memories)

Please excuse the Disney Memories interruption.

Disney World Day 2 - Dinner at Cinderella's Royal Table in the Castle

Disney World Day 2 - Animal Kingdom and a song fit for a Princess

Disney World Day 1 - Magic Kingdom and Meeting the Mouse for the 1st time

Happy Father's Day to the Best Daddy Ever!

We're baaaack!

We're at Disney World, but we'll be back soon!!!

It's official.

First Snowcones of the Season

Custom blog/signature

19 months (a little late)

Princess can rock the Mouse Ears!

Happy Birthday Uncle Will!

Where did the time go?

Getting ready for Disney World!

This is the stuff!

Mental Sticky Notes

Happy Easter

Texas Tradition

Meet Princess Leia

Denture Fund

Princess Emery is 18 months old!

Got Allergies? We do!

Foot Update

Cutest mugshot I've ever seen!

Our Angels

Opening Day & Chase's 1st Official T-Ball Game!

Ugh, ouch, and OMG that hurt!

Some fun and totally useless information.

Rodeo 2011

Pageant Day! update