The Douglas Drama

Recipe Rut

2011-07-08T17:24:00.003-05:00

I've been in such a recipe rut that Michael has taken over the cooking around here (meaning we are eating LOTS of grilled food). My friend, Amber, told me about this website and I am completely amazed by some of these EASY recipes. I am making a list tonight of the things I want to make. Check out the site for yourself:

PLAIN CHICKEN

Things are crazy for us around here. We will soon be putting our home on the market. YIKES! I can't imagine how I am going to keep it clean with 3 little ones. Wish us luck!!!

Our latest addiction....

2011-04-27T15:52:00.000-05:00

Live streaming video by Ustream

Using Mary Margaret's videos

2011-04-06T18:55:00.002-05:00

Several people have commented/asked if they may use her videos at church events, Sunday school classes, etc. Please feel free to use them as you wish. If you would just email me or leave a comment on this blog and let me know. I am keeping up with everything and placing it in Mary Margaret's baby book so one day she can look back at all this. I just want to document it. Plus we are keeping up with locations to plug into a map so she may see that one little person can make a big difference! Thanks so much!!!

My friend, Laura....

2011-03-16T10:18:00.000-05:00

blogged about Mary Margaret! How sweet she is!!! Check out Laura's blog. She blogs about the Iphone, her old cottage home, crafts, and of course, her baby boy (she uses cloth diapers and she blogs about that as well).

iGriza: You MUST watch how Cute this Kid is!

Mary Margaret's latest adventure

2011-02-28T11:05:00.001-06:00

Mary Margaret and I had a great big adventure this weekend. She was asked to come speak at University Baptist Church in Waco, Texas (the church started by the David Crowder Band). She took her very first plane ride and LOVED it. We stayed up late watching Kit Kittridge and ordered room service. We made it a fun Mommy-Daughter date. Then Sunday morning, she took the stage and told the story of Jonah. I am always amazed as I watch her. She never gets nervous or has stage fright. The church then had a picnic and she was able to play with new friends on the playground. We had some issues with flight delays and didn't know if we were going to make it back Sunday night, but ended up that all was well. We just got home a little later than first planned. It was a great weekend and fun experience. Mary Margaret said it best, "Mom, it's an honor!"

Below is a link to an interview done by a local Waco news station:

Pint-sized "preacher" takes over Waco church stage - CentralTexasNow.com - KCEN- HD

Mary Margaret sings Shirley Temple's "Animal Crackers in my Soup"

2011-01-16T17:16:00.000-06:00

Baked Potato Soup

2011-01-06T12:58:00.002-06:00

The ultimate cold-weather comfort food! We all enjoyed this soup.

Ingredients:

8 to 10 slices bacon, diced, about 8 ounces
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup diced celery
1 cup diced onion
1 bunch green onions, about 8 green onions, thinly sliced
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups milk
4 large baking potatoes, baked, peeled, and diced
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (we like pepper)
8 ounces sour cream
8 ounces shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
Sliced green onion for garnish, optional

Preparation:

*In a Dutch oven or large kettle over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp.
*Remove bacon to paper towels to drain.

*Keep bacon drippings (original recipe called for 2 tablespoons, but I used all) in the pan along with the butter, chopped onion, and celery. Cook, stirring, until vegetables are tender.

*Stir in the sliced green onion and flour until blended.

*Stir in chicken broth; cover and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture is thickened and vegetables are very tender.

*Stir in milk, diced potatoes, salt, pepper, cheese, and sour cream. Continue cooking until cheese is melted.

*Blend about half of the soup in batches until smooth. Add the blended soup back to the pot. Cook, stirring constantly, until soup is hot.

*Garnish with green onions, bacon, and/or cheddar cheese.

Serves 8.

Mary Margaret sings "I want a hippopotamus for Christmas"

2010-12-22T14:51:00.000-06:00

Mary Margaret tells the story of David and Goliath

2010-11-24T22:23:00.000-06:00

Mary Margaret's first church appearance

2010-11-11T23:05:00.003-06:00

Mary Margaret was asked by her first grade teacher to come and tell the story of Jonah at her church. What an honor it was! Below is a link to see the video of her first live "preaching"!

http://www.vimeo.com/16404771

We are so proud of our little story teller. I pray that she keeps Jesus in her heart and continues to spread His word!!!

Mary Margaret tells the story of Noah

2010-08-24T07:58:00.000-05:00

Mary Margaret tells the story of Jonah

2010-08-20T21:35:00.001-05:00

Here's what we've been doing...

2010-08-14T19:03:00.002-05:00

This is what my sweet Jack thinks about getting his picture made:

Jack---6/7 weeks

First Day of FIRST GRADE!!

Jack Michael

2010-07-29T15:42:00.004-05:00

My sweet son, Jack Michael, was born on July 19th at 1:57 am. He weighed 5 pounds, 15 ounces and was 18 1/2 inches long. He was 5 weeks early and he went directly to the NICU because he was having problems breathing. He spent 11 loooooooong days there. It was terrible coming home and having to leave your baby at the hospital. I didn't even get to hold him until day 5 (when he came out of the oxygen dome). While I was a complete wreck, my dear husband was a rock. He was such a support to me. We brought Jack home on June 30th and I haven't been doing anything but spoiling him rotten. His sisters adore him and even fight over who gets to hold him. I have let all other things fall to the wayside. It has been adjustment having 3 but it was much easier jumping from 2 to 3 kids than it was from 1 to 2. We are so blessed!!!

Jack--July 2nd

Big sister Harper holding baby Jack.

July 21st---

Nothing like holding a sleeping baby!

Sorry I've been so missing in action. I've been getting some loving from my sweet babies!

Ewwww!

2010-06-17T21:30:00.002-05:00

Here is a story without a "filter". I must share it though.

Tonight Harper came to me and said, "Ewww, get this sticky."

I tried to wipe it off her hands as we were on our way to the bathroom to wash hands. I said, "Where did you find this sticky?"

"My nose!" she replied.

Ugh!

Never a dull moment around here.

As you know, baby #3 will be here soon. This heat is literally killing me. I can't even look outside without retaining water. I am trying not to wish each day away as this is the last time I will be pregnant (that's my husband you hear cheering in the background-haha). I'll be sure to post pictures though I am still trying to figure out how I will manage 3 little ones. I know one thing----lots and LOTS of prayer!!!

Pancake Saturday

2010-05-25T21:15:00.003-05:00

My girls get up every Saturday morning and head to the kitchen with their Daddy. Cartoons are turned on, pancake batter is mixed, and bacon is thrown in the microwave. This weekly tradition is an obsession. They race to the kitchen for the prime mixing spot. Harper Jane won this past Saturday!

MMisms

2010-05-13T17:55:00.003-05:00

This past weekend Mary Margaret was on a roll.

The husband said, "I really would like some wings."

MM replied, "Dad, you wouldn't fit through the front door AND you couldn't fly with them! That's silly!"

I laughed so hard I was snorting.

The Aftermath--Part I

2010-05-06T19:19:00.004-05:00

BEFORE

It was an F-3 tornado that hit our little community. What a miracle that we survived! We have been told by rescue workers that all those trees in our backyard saved us. I was told just today by our roofer that it looks like the back portion of the roof was almost pulled off. I don't even want to imagine it....

Hi friends...

2010-04-28T09:03:00.000-05:00

Our sweet little town was hit by a tornado this past Saturday night. Our old historic street suffered significant damage. We scraped by with only moderate damage. When our back windows were blown out both my husband and I looked at each other with a look of sheer fright. I was seriously fearful for our lives. We are very blessed and thankful!! We are probably going to be without power for the next 2-3 weeks or so. The girls have adjusted to this new normal...as are we. I will post pictures as soon as we do have power. Please pray for our sweet little town!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-28T08:01:00.000-05:00

More like FLASHBACK. These are me as a baby.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-21T07:58:00.001-05:00

Easter Continued

2010-04-17T07:51:00.002-05:00

Easter was much fun at the Douglas household. We hunted eggs for over a week. My aunt did these precious bunny t-shirts and buckets for the girls. How cute are they! Thanks Aunt Meri Lyn!

The dyeing of the eggs begins....(in old clothes---I've learned from experience)!

My little sister with the girls Easter morning before church. Abbey has lived with us for a year and we love, love, love her being here.

Easter Sunday afternoon again with the hunting of the eggs.

Because I'm easily amused

2010-04-14T19:16:00.004-05:00

I love to read. It is my escape. I normally read mystery/thriller type books. I've recently tried to step outside the box and read different genres. I just finished the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. These had a little bit of time travel (way outside my normal genre). I devoured these books. I couldn't wait to borrow the next one...and then the next one...and then the next one (there are 7). I practically harassed my friend that loaned me the books.

But now....I'm finished. Ugh!

I've been at a loss as what to read next. I found a cool little tool a few years ago that sometimes helps me find new authors with books in similar genres.

It is called LITERATURE-MAP.

Go there and type in your favorite author (for example John Grisham). A map will come up and have John Grisham in the middle and dozens of authors listed around. The names closest to Grisham write the most like him and are most similar in genre.

What a useful little tool this has been for me. I'm off to use it to find my next adventure!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T18:38:00.003-05:00

25 Weeks pregnant

Harper

2010-03-14T13:06:00.003-05:00

I would have never thought that during the 10 weeks where she cried for no less than 6 hours a day (COLIC), this child would be such a happy child. She is really such a joy. She's rarely in a bad mood. Harper is becoming quite the comedian. I am thoroughly enjoying being at home with this precious angel.

We were watching Grey's Anatomy one night recently. Yes, she was snuggling with me in my bed. The renowned doctor Harper Avery was on this episode. Everyone kept repeating his name. Harper looked at me and said, "Me Harper, Mommy. Me Harper!"

Tuesday of this week, I was trying to get her to concentrate on something other than taking away her sister's book. I said, "Harper, where is your baby?" She said, "Not sure, Mommy, but I want to wead Mawy Mawgawet's book."

She wants to go all the time, but she wants to go in a "Pwetty Dwess and Hairbow". Always, never fails. She is so prissy. Sometimes just to appease her, I will put on her smocked dress (always her choice) over her pajamas and just drive around the block. She is spoiled rotten.

She lives off of chicken nuggets and biscuits.

She loves to brush her teeth.

She loves to take a bath. If I ever sneak away and try to take a bath, she finds me and begs to get in with me.

When we leave, she must have her coat zipped and always, always has to have her scarf.

She is obsessed with shoes and purses.

She also LOVES to color with crayons, markers, and colored pencils. A new coloring book is her prize during our weekly Wal-Mart trips. She takes her time choosing just the right book.

She is 30 1/2 months old.

At night, she talks to my belly and calls her brother, "Jack-Jack"! She came up with that on her own!!

I am thankful for every sweet day with her.

It's a....

2010-03-02T14:47:00.002-06:00

BOY!!!

We found out this morning. Both the girls went with us. Mary Margaret wanted to be the first to know. The nurse whispered to her and then Mary Margaret got to tell us. She was a bit disappointed and said, "It's a boy and I guess I'll love him anyway."

It was a priceless moment!

He does have a little heart issue that we are praying will heal itself. The doctor didn't go into too much detail because she said most of the time everything ends up fine. We are also praying for NO pre-term labor like my last pregnancy. Boy babies do not do as well if they are early.

We have chosen a name. He will be named Jack Michael. Jack after my grandfather and Michael after my husband. Mary Margaret still thinks we should name him Tucker, but she said Jack was the next best thing. I'll post pictures of his sweet little profile soon!

Snow Day Part 1

2010-02-13T18:18:00.004-06:00

Snow Angel---first time ever. I can not even begin to describe MM's excitement over this!

Looking down our street

Our backyard

Say CHEESE!

2010-02-08T08:09:00.000-06:00

Holidays Take 3

2010-02-02T08:04:00.000-06:00

Myself, Harper Jane, Mary Margaret and my little sister, Abbey on Christmas Eve

Enough pictures already, Mommy! I always evoke this face from HJ when taking too many pictures!

Holidays Take 2

2010-01-30T08:53:00.000-06:00

Christmas Eve

My aunt is a fabulous seamstress. She made Mary Margaret a one-of-a-kind wedding dress with all the accessories (garter, slip, veil, flowers, shoes, and ring) and she made Harper Jane a bridesmaid dress with all accessories. They adore these dresses!!!

Our mantle with the new stocking for baby Douglas #3!!!

Raising a Southern Daughter

2010-01-28T08:00:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, Harper and I were going to meet my sister for lunch. She insisted on taking her baby doll with us. We were trying to hurry -- wait, I was trying to hurry.

SIDE NOTE: Children (or at the very least my children) do NOT understand the following phrases: We are late, please hurry, or get your tail in gear.

Harper sadly dropped her baby down the brick stairs while going out the side door. It was a sad event. Harper started to frown and she had that trembling lip (that just about kills me). She rushed down the steps, picked up that baby, and said ever-so-sweetly, "Come here baby. Let me hold you. Bless your heart!"

Now, friends, that is a true Southern lady!

Holidays 2009

2010-01-27T16:40:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving

Christmas--Take 1

EWWW!

2010-01-10T15:41:00.002-06:00

Now even more reason to wash those brand new clothes:

CHECK OUT THIS LINK!

Merry Christmas...

2009-12-25T19:21:00.004-06:00

...from our family to you!!! May you remember the reason for the season and REJOICE!!!

NEWS

2009-12-01T20:48:00.002-06:00

Well friends, we are going to be in need of a new name for our blog address. Guess why? We are no longer going to be the "Douglas Family of 4"!!!

Yes, that's right. We do, in fact, have one more reason to be thankful. Baby Douglas #3 will be here in July. Big sister Mary Margaret is already consumed with the thoughts of having another sister. I tried to prepare her that it just might be a brother, but she would have nothing of it. "Mommy, I'll handle it. I'll just have a talk with God."

We are overjoyed and are praying for a healthy baby!

Mary Margaret's 6th Birthday

2009-11-13T08:04:00.000-06:00

Here is MM making the goody bags the morning of her skating party (she's still in her PJs). Not only did we celebrater her 6th birthday last week, but she got glasses. She loves them!!!

The biggest surprise of the week was the one below. It was a complete surprise to us all. A close family friend, Carson loves to spoil the girls AND they adore him. I mean, ADORE him. He surprised Mary Margaret by putting her on 2 billboards in our hometown. MM was so excited. When he revealed them to MM, she said, "Hey that's me up there!" And then the next morning, she looked at me and said, "I think I might be famous!" This was a once in a lifetime event! Here is a picture of one of the billboards at night:

MM wanted to have "The Wizard of Oz" birthday party this year!

The birthday cake

MM was so excited when she saw her cake!

Harper Jane had a great time at the party!

Here is a picture of Emma and MM. Emma's mom, Amber and I have been friends since we were 6! She is my oldest and dearest friend!
Grandmarmie came to visit us yesterday. She brought lots of goodies. She loves to spoil our sweet girls!!!

She brought the girls matching Pottery Barn Snowgirl PJs. They will so be wearing these soft snuggly pajamas Christmas morning (and many other mornings in between)

She also surprised Mary Margaret with a gift that both she and her little sister will enjoy. The Pottery Barn play tent. How cute is that!!! The girls moved right in and loved "peering out the windows"! What a fantastic surprise!!!!

All in all, Mary Margaret had a wonderful birthday week-long celebration! I hope she will treasure these memories forever! I certainly will!

The Master Bath

2009-11-05T16:14:00.007-06:00

BEFORE

DURING:

Removed tile with sledgehammer. Took out tub, toilet, and sink. Removed lovely blue carpet. Created linen closet. Opened doorway into bath area. Removed 2 wall heaters.

AFTER:

New light fixture, new jetted tub, new linen closet, new tile flooring, new toilet, and new blinds.

DRESSING AREA OF MASTER BATH

DURING

AFTER:

New light fixtures, new mirror, new countertop, fresh trim paint, fresh wall paint. We also had the sink moved to this dressing area.

GO VOTE!!!

2009-11-02T21:58:00.001-06:00

Leigh at Bloggeritaville is throwing her 2nd Annual Halloween Costume Contest! Head over there and vote for my sweet, Mary Margaret as Strawberry Shortcake (Halloween 08)!

CLICK HERE TO VOTE

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T07:00:00.009-06:00

Halloween 2009 was a huge success. We started trick-or-treating around 2. We visited with family first. Then we went to a Halloween Party held at the Simmons' household. It was oh-so-fun. Chassey is the ultimate hostess. We went on a hayride and all the children LOVED it. Halloween was indeed a fun night!

I love the above picture. Harper Jane had had it with all the pictures!

Mary Margaret wanted to be "Annie" once again this year (yes, for the third year--she was "Annie" when she was 2 and 3 years old). Her first "Annie" costume was too small. It was made by one of my gifted students at the time, "C". "C" was in the 4th grade when she made it. Seriously. This little girl has talent! It runs in her family (C's mom was the one that painted MM's nursery). MM needed a new "Annie" costume so we got in contact with "C" and her mom and a new precious costume was created. Check out C's mom's blog --- Yelli Kelli. Both C and her mother, Kelli, have Etsy stores and are highly talented and creative. You'll be amazed!!!

I hope Halloween 2009 was a memorable one for you and your family!

The Living Room

2009-10-31T08:17:00.001-05:00

Here is the living room. We had the wall heaters taken out all over the home (there were 15 total--wow). We kept the fireplace mantle but did have new tile installed. We also were able to keep the cornice boards, though I did not use them in the living room (I painted one and am currently using it in the dining room). We also added an overhead light fixture. The floors were chipped up and the hardwoods underneath were restored and refinished. The walls, ceiling, and trim were all painted.

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

FIREPLACE -- BEFORE

AFTER

Home Renovation---The Kitchen

2009-10-30T10:47:00.005-05:00

I am going to start back showing the renovations in our home. We are no where finished with everything, but I'm really proud of what we have accomplished!

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

BEFORE (KITCHEN/BREAKFAST AREA)

DURING
DURING (TRAVERTINE TILE DOWN)

AFTER

BEFORE (WASHER/DRYER IN KITCHEN)

DURING

AFTER (WE MOVED LAUNDRY AREA TO SUN PORCH)

We are still not finished in here. I would like another set of cabinets (including a pantry) where the washer and dryer once was located. We also don't have crown moulding installed yet. It is just a process!

My Latest News

2009-10-25T01:50:00.002-05:00

I am now a representative for Orient Expressed children's clothes. They have precious, fine children's clothes (including smocked items). Please check out the website and let me know if you would like to order anything. I'm at your service!!!

www.orientexpressed.com

I'm thankful....Part II

2009-10-16T18:45:00.005-05:00

Harper Jane trying on my Uggs.

Harper Jane is so glad that her "Mimi" is on Fall Break (2 days off).

The first fire of the season

Roasting Marshmallows

S'mores

I'm thankful for....

2009-10-05T13:54:00.005-05:00

A little girl that loves to go to pre-school.

Two daughters that love to snuggle.

A sweet little one that secretly enjoyed the many M & M's that she found in the pantry (and she is wearing her Build-A-Bear's Halloween shirt).

A husband that loves to bake everything from scratch (including the crust)!

Little girls anticipating the completion of cupcakes!

Soccer

2009-09-22T13:46:00.002-05:00

I still can't believe that Mary Margaret wanted to play soccer. It is way outside her normal comfort zone. Here are some action shots...

Daddy and his 2 girls!

Harper Jane is hard to contain at games. She desperately wants to be out playing with the big girls!

This is the day the Lord....

2009-09-13T00:23:00.002-05:00

I know, I know. I need to be rejoicing about the wonderful day the Lord has made, BUT....

Here's a rundown of my day (the long version, so get ready). MM had a soccer game at 9AM. I must be the only assistant coach in the history of soccer that knows absolutely nothing about the game. Well, maybe one thing: kick the white and black ball into your goal. Seriously. I am great at moral support and cheering the girls though and that counts for something, right? Our team practices from 9-9:30 and then we play the next 30 minutes. Ok, game over.

Then we rush home. Michael has to work in the soccer concession stand. We (MM, HJ, and I) have a birthday party 35 minutes away. I change MM's clothes including hair bow, change HJ's diaper and prepare her a sippy, and lastly change my grungy, sweaty soccer clothes (yes, I said sweaty. Please don't forget about the humidity here in my great state).

Run to the birthday party. It's outside at a playground....so you guessed it. I'm spending my time chasing HJ. We did all have a fabulous time visiting with precious friends. Spend 2 hours there. Rush home. HJ is majorly fussy. Her scheduled nap begins at 11:15 and we are way off base....by more than 2 hours. Yikes! She cries the majority of the way home. I turn up the Praise Baby music and for the most part tune it out.

Run inside. Put her back in her PJs which consists of a onesie. Why you ask? Because if she has the opportunity to remove her diaper, she will. Put her to bed.

Next I began our food for our College Football Festivity Saturday. Yes, we like to watch football and snack....lots and lots of snacking. Checked the pantry only to find zero tortilla chips. Not nary a morsel. I asked MM if she wanted to go to Wal-Mart and received a loud and proud, "Yes, ma'am." I figured she thought there was something in it for her and she was right. I promised her M&M's....much cheaper than a toy and works just the same.

Wal-mart on a Saturday afternoon? What was I thinking? I won't bore you with those details. I think you must get my drift.

Home again, home again. Completed the snacks. Gave the girls a bath. Oh? What's that? Where's my husband during all this? Why watching college football, of course!!!!

Prepared supper for the girls. They are both picky.

I then remembered that today was supposed to be my long run. Yes, friends, I am training for a half-marathon. It is in November and yes I am absolutely crazy!!! At least, I admit it. I hurried, changed clothes, gathered up my iPod, headphones, and my handy dandy Garmin watch (it's oh-so-wonderful, but that's an entirely other post). I have not been able to pass my regular 6 mile "long" run. I've been stuck at 6 miles for oh, at least 2 months. Stuck. Couldn't pass it. Finally last Sunday, I made it 6.4 miles. Seriously. It's been slow go, but I have been determined.

Off I go. I ran my normal route and then I got a little antsy. I went off on my merry way and later looked down to find that I was already at 7 miles. Well, I'll just run a little bit more, I tell myself. Hey, I felt good. Let's just keep going.....and going.....and going. I'm so excited to say that I did make it 11 miles running the ENTIRE TIME. Let me say that again, running the entire time. I made it home barely able to walk in the front door. My dear husband was finally putting the children to bed. I sat down (really because I didn't think my legs would hold me for another second). Nothing sounded better to me after this long, long day than to shower and go lie face down in my sweet, sweet bed....if only I could summon the energy. Ten short minutes later (I promise it was only 10), MM ran to the living room because apparently there was a catastrophe of epic proportions.

And really there was.

HJ had decided to crawl in my bed and enjoy a beverage. And by beverage, I mean an ENTIRE bottle of water most of which missed her mouth and was seeping through my precious, comfy comforter, to the soft sateen sheets, and, as luck would have it, down to the mattress cover.

Oh my sweet Harper Jane!!! Not tonight, sweet girl. Of all nights....

So I write to you now, as I am impatiently waiting for my sheets, blanket, comforter, and mattress cover to dry. Yes, my friends, that's four loads of clothes that had to be done.

I'm seriously contemplating sleeping on the couch!

Fashion Faux Pas

2009-09-11T08:08:00.004-05:00

What is that, you say? Two posts in one week from me?? Well, I aim to please.

This morning was picture day at Mary Margaret's school. MM normally does not care what she wears---no opinion. That is, until this morning. I had this precious little smocked number all ready for her and she says "I don't think I want to wear that this morning. Our teacher says we need to wear something cute. That's not so cute."

Ok, so plans B, C, and D were also "not cute". We were standing at her closet and I'm began to worry about the time constraints we were about to face because of this clothing debacle. I uttered the dreaded words, "What do you think is "cute"?

She points to this adorable little seersucker outfit. I'm all, "MM, baby, you can't wear seersucker after Labor Day?"

She looks at me with those big eyes and said, "Mother, what is a seerpucker?"

Needless to say, I couldn't argue with "seerpucker" and she got her wish. I guess her very first school fall pictures will break the old-school rules of fashion. At least, she thinks she looks cute and that, my friends, is what matters!

P.S. On a much more serious note....I know today is 9/11 and I certainly am praying for those who lost loved ones that horrible day. I will never forget where I was. It was my very first year to teach. I had just dropped off my 4th graders at Art and that is when I heard the news. The rest of the day was spent "going through the motions". It was truly heartbreaking! Where were you?

MMisms

2009-09-10T19:07:00.002-05:00

Here are two little short MMisms:

One day last week, I was doing my best to get MM to try a new food. She looked up at me and said, "Well, if you exist!" I had to explain that exist was quite a different word that insist.

Also MM is going to be in "The Wizard of Oz". It is through our local community college. She is a munchkin and a flying monkey and is uber excited!!! I mean, it is all she talks about. Tuesday at practice she was given her script. On our way into practice today, she said, "Mother, do you have my scrib?" So here again we are learning some new vocabulary words!!!

Lately...

2009-09-02T09:49:00.002-05:00

I've been so consumed with real life. Blogging has definitely taken a "back seat"! Here's my not-so-Wordless-Wednesday!

Mary Margaret's First Day of School (mid-August)

Here was Harper Jane's reaction to dropping off her sister (she fondly calls Mary Margaret "Mimi"). I think Harper cried more than I did! Seriously!

First Soccer game of the season. Harper Jane wanted so badly to play with the big girls. I'm actually assistant coach. This statement generates giggles from those who know me well. It has been so much fun!

Happy 2nd Birthday Harper Jane! We had her party at the local Chick-Fil-A and she had a ball. She received 4 new baby dolls and proceeded to attempt to carry all 4. She is such a mess! I just can't believe she is already 2. Really, where does the time go?

This pretty much sums up life with my oh-so-dramatic Mary Margaret. Think: SUPERSTAR! Ha!

Beach Vacay!

2009-08-17T09:42:00.002-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2009-07-29T16:19:00.002-05:00

Does it get any better than this?

Beachin' It

2009-07-21T18:59:00.001-05:00

We are visiting the wonderful shores of the Gulf of Mexico. I'll be back soon with lots o' pictures and a few funny MMisms!

Sisters

2009-07-09T08:53:00.002-05:00

Harper Jane always has to follow big sister!

My 2 Little Groupies!

2009-06-29T14:24:00.003-05:00

My little cousins, uncle, and family friend play in a band and play at a local seafood restaurant. They play lots of Jack Johnson, Zac Brown band, John Mayer, etc. It is very laid back atmosphere. Recently the hubby and I took the girls for a night of fun. Now Mary Margaret believes that she is part of this band. They let her get on "stage" with them and thus have created a little monster!

Harper Jane loves to dance. Here she is bustin' a move!

She is such a Mommy's girl!

We celebrate 8 years of marriage in August. Time really does fly!

We stayed out waaaaaaaay past her bedtime, but it was worth it!

Sweet Summertime

2009-06-20T20:38:00.002-05:00

We took the girls swimming at my aunt's pool on Friday. The girls had a blast and so did we! Here is Harper Jane playing with Swim to Me Puppy (and yes, he does really swim)!

My sweet girls playing together!

This is what you get when you tell Harper Jane to say "Cheese" for the camera! It's her favorite new face to make!

Happy Summer, y'all!

Friends Forever

2009-06-11T19:00:00.002-05:00

I have had this one special friend, Amber, since I was 6. Seriously, we have been friends for over 25 years (she was even my college roomie). Her daughter, Emma, celebrated her 6th birthday this past weekend. Here is Emma and my Mary Margaret. Isn't it funny how everything comes full circle? I hope these 2 sweet girls are friends forever just like their Moms!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-06-03T22:49:00.002-05:00

My little cousin Clint graduated and we all helped him celebrate! (From left to right: my little sister Abbey, cousin Bonnie, cousin Katie, now incoming Freshman cousin Clint, cousin Jacob, and me). Little Clint will be playing football for Birmingham-Southern in the Fall and we couldn't be prouder!!!

Wordless Wednesday---This is the face of fun!

2009-05-27T17:16:00.001-05:00

Just makes you want to sing, "Girls just wanna have fun!"

Dance Recital 2009

2009-05-19T09:42:00.003-05:00

Hi friends,
Remember me? I've been quite busy. I think May must be the busiest month. Here are a few pictures of my little ham, Mary Margaret, at her very first dance recital. To say that she loved it would be quite the understatement.

Hurrican Harper Jane after the recital. She was enthralled during the whole show. I don't think she moved an inch.

P.S. Sorry I haven't been around. My Google Reader has all but blown up. I'll be back, I promise!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-05-06T11:20:00.002-05:00

Sisters, they're good for something.

Tuesday Twenty

2009-05-05T08:25:00.002-05:00

1. We woke up to "something" in our house at 5am. It was so very loud.

2. It was a baby bird (old enough to fly).

3. The bird's mother has built her nest in our chimney.

4. The baby bird was stuck under my living room curtains while trying to get out the window.

5. It was injured.

6. Michael and I were ready to call someone, but who exactly do you call at 5 am?

7. He got a broom. The rest is history.

8. Use your imagination. Please don't make me relive it.

9. This morning started out with a bang. Literally.

10. I've been trying to run off the mother bird for weeks.

11. Can you say fires in April? Oh yes, I did. Several times.

12. 5 hours of sleep is not enough for me.

13. I almost took pictures of the entire debacle. Michael forbid me.

14. He claimed that we did not need evidence of this spectacle.

15. He's really right, but please don't tell him that.

16. I'm glad the girls did not wake up.

17. Mary Margaret the animal activist would have been scarred for life.

18. I think I might need a sedative.

19. I'm afraid the mother bird is out for revenge.

20. Here is Michael, the bird fighter. How very primal of him!

Wordless Wednesday--Sweet Sisters

2009-04-29T15:07:00.001-05:00

Another introspective post...

2009-04-28T14:36:00.003-05:00

Last Friday, Mary Margaret was on a little tear around here. She would not mind. I had finally had it with her, my patience running thin. I kindly explained (ok, so maybe not so kindly) that she was to do what I said when I said to do it.

There was to be no arguing.

There was to be no debating (she would make a fabulous attorney one day).

There was to be no complaining.

There was to be no whining.

I meant business. Remember my patience was gone out the window. I did explain to her that I still loved her no matter what but she must learn to follow my instructions in a timely fashion.

Over dinner that night, I was talking to the hubby. I said, "I guess that is how God wants us to do. He wants us to do what He says when He says to do it. He wants us to follow His instructions even if we don't necessarily want to do it. He doesn't want us to do it later. He doesn't want us to complain. He doesn't want us to whine. There is no debating His word. He even loves me if I take my time following Him."

Michael didn't hesitate to respond, "That sounds like a blog post."

Ah, he knows me all too well.

Though in all seriousness, I guess I should be practicing what I am preaching!

Sweet Little Lola

2009-04-27T13:11:00.004-05:00

My friend Brandy's youngest daughter is having major surgery on Wednesday. She thoroughly described Lola's condition so just CLICK HERE to read all about it. She would surely love some prayers for their family during this stressful time. Lola is a precious, adorable, beautiful, infectious-smiled little girl.

Please be praying and thinking about them!

The Drive

2009-04-24T16:49:00.004-05:00

Prepare breakfast.
Get the girls ready clothes-wise.
Fix MM's crazy curly hair.
Brush teeth.
Play.
Prepare lunch.
Play.
Watch a little TV.
Dinner.
Baths.
Read a book or two.
Brush teeth.
Tuck in the kiddos.
Repeat in the morning.

This list seems kind of monotonous, doesn't it? I mean, there are so many days where I seem to go through the motions.

Ever driven somewhere and can't remember the drive? Oh yes, I have. And I don't want to forget this drive called my life. I want to enjoy fixing MM's hair, getting the girls ready, fixin' supper, bathtime, brushing teeth...well maybe not the brushing teeth part, but you get the idea. I don't just want to go through the motions. I want to live and not take anything for granted.

Little grins
hugs
digging in the dirt
playing pat-a-cake
reading picture books
splashing in the bubbles
silly faces

That list sounds much more fun.

I just want to keep my eyes open, take it all in, treasure every moment, and, most of all, be thankful.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-22T18:42:00.004-05:00

This is how I spent my day....

First I was serenaded (ALL. DAY. LONG) by a princess fairy.....

Then a sweet little toddler fed me a bottle.

Life is good!

Houston, we have a climber!

2009-04-21T12:00:00.002-05:00

You're growing old, you've got gray hair....

2009-04-20T10:24:00.004-05:00

Do you remember this empty dining room??

Well it is no longer empty thanks to my sweet, thoughtful husband. Saturday was my birthday and it was apparent that Michael was going to go all out and make me feel oh-so-special. First, we went and picked up my new (really old antique) dining room table, featured below! It is a mahogany, double pedestal table. I have had my eye on this one since December. I have not found chairs (as of yet) that I want. Antique shopping takes time, people! It is not something you can rush.

And then, my sweet, thoughtful husband made me a homemade birthday cake. My favorite---chocolate with cream cheese icing. It is delicious! Doesn't he look proud of himself??

Next we went shopping at my favorite place---Target! My mother-in-law sent me a gift card there and I was anxious to spend it. We had Mexican for supper. Ah, chips and queso. What else could a girl ask for? I guess turning 31 wasn't too bad!

The Teacher

2009-04-16T13:07:00.005-05:00

Last night as Harper Jane crawled up on the coffee table for the upteenth time, I began thinking. She had no doubt that when she walked to the end of the table that I was going to reach out my arms and catch her.

No doubt.

No fear.

No worry.

She knew I would be there and she would not fall. She was so faithful that she would almost jump into my arms.

Isn't that the way my relationship with the Lord should be? When I get to the end of my proverbial table, shouldn't I just faithfully know that God will be there to catch me? Shouldn't I realize that worry and doubt do not belong in this equation?

I, so many times, try to carry the burden alone, not turning my worries over to Him. If only to follow Harper Jane's lead and just know that He will be there for me loyally, faithfully and allow myself to lean into Him.

I knew when I had children that I would be teaching them, but...Wow! What I can learn from my sweet kiddos! God is good!

Wordless Wednesday--The Balloon Edition

2009-04-15T11:52:00.006-05:00

P.S. Have you noticed that lately all Harper Jane seems to wear is a white onesie?? Well, that sweet little child loves to undress herself. What I mean is that she loves to be NAKED! Since she has learned to take off her diaper (and do her business on the floor), I had to try and come up with a quick solution. The white onesie seems to work so she wears it all the time. We have started on the potty training process.

The Eggs Must Dye!

2009-04-14T08:17:00.004-05:00

My little Iron Chef! She just had to wear her apron and chef's hat!

Watching the dye intently

Amazed at the Auburn egg!

Daddy is the "pro" at all that dyeing!

Harper Jane wanted to see what was going on. What a little nosy rosey!

Harper Jane found the Pez container and loved it. I found her sitting on the breakfast table playing with it!

Look what cute Easter buckets my Aunt Meri Lyn did for the girls.

Happy Easter!!!

2009-04-12T20:20:00.001-05:00

The Crying Chronicles (February 2008)

2009-04-09T22:52:00.005-05:00

Don't you just love to document the crying and discomfort of your children? Oh wait, that's just me?? Well, never mind then.

I secretly enjoyed looking back at these pictures. I love watching Mary Margaret's facial expressions change from happy to scared to "Please stop this insanity, Mommy!" And poor Harper Jane's face could not have gotten any redder. I know, I know, I should be ashamed!

P.S. Don't forget to CLICK HERE and go vote for my wee one, Harper Jane. You may vote once EVERY day;)

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-08T13:18:00.005-05:00

Lookin' out my back door...

P.S. Don't forget to CLICK HERE and go vote for my wee one, Harper Jane. You may vote once EVERY day;)

MMisms---The Easter Edition

2009-04-06T13:35:00.004-05:00

Last week, I tried to explain to Mary Margaret the meaning of Easter. Yes, I want her to enjoy the Easter Bunny and all the fun in hiding the eggs, but I also want her to understand the true meaning behind Easter.

Conversation goes as follows:

ME: You know MM, Easter is not just about the Easter Bunny and eggs, it is about Jesus. He died and after 3 days, he rose to be with God in heaven. That's why we celebrate Easter. When Jesus rose from the dead, it is called the Resurrection.

Do you understand? Have any questions?

MM: No Mama. I get it.

*****************

Later on that day, I tried to get her to talk about it. First she said that Jesus was on "restriction" when He went to heaven. No MM, not so much.

So I tried to revisit the story.

*****************

After her Daddy arrived home, I was going to get MM to "show out" for him. I asked her again about Easter and then she answered me. Oh she answered all right.

She determined that Easter was celebrated because of the "Reservations"!

Her Daddy and I got a big kick out of it.

I am thankful for my reservations, aren't you?

Happy Easter to you all!

P.S. Don't forget to CLICK HERE and go vote for my wee one, Harper Jane. You may vote once EVERY day;)

GO VOTE!!!

2009-04-05T20:19:00.002-05:00

I entered Harper Jane in a local TV station's baby of the month contest. We would love for you to go vote for her. You may vote once per day!

Here's the link:

http://web.waaytv.com/bom/profile.php?id=1376

Thanks!

One Last Cruise Post

2009-04-04T21:14:00.004-05:00

I know y'all have to be tired of reading about our cruise and I promise that this is the last post!

Here is where I checked my email. This was the only way I could check on my kiddos as my cell phone did not have service. Nice view, eh?

We cruised during the very first weekend of March Madness and this is what the hubby wanted to do during the late afternoon. I, of course, went out exploring our ship and left him to all that basketball.

We had some really cool towel animals left in our room at night. Mary Margaret got a big kick out of these pictures!

Don't you just love the sunglasses on the above monkey? Too cute! And lastly is a picture of the hubby and myself all dressed up. I couldn't tell you the last time I had to get so very "princessified"! It was quite the change from my usual uniform of jeans and t-shirt. I was excited. I even put on make-up (I normally just wear a little lipstick)!

The Cruise Food

2009-04-02T19:45:00.004-05:00

Yes, I did take pictures of the food we had while on the cruise. I'm sure the people at our table thought I was insane, but that's ok.

Some sort of Beef dish (the sauce was delish)

Lambchop

Garlic Shrimp (so very good)

Some sort of beef dish.

I was pleasantly surprised with the food. I had heard that the taste of cruise ship food had been declining the past few years, but I enjoyed all our meals (though I'm not really that picky). There were several choices each night. Sorry I didn't take pictures of the desserts. I was way too busy inhaling those. The desserts were absolutley wonderful.

And lastly, here I am at Senor Frogs. I just had to get a picture up in the "big chair"!

MMisms

2009-04-01T19:22:00.003-05:00

Today after Mary Margaret had watched no less than 3 shows on Noggin, I turned off the television.

The whining commenced. This girl would watch TV ALL. DAY. LONG.

I looked at her and went into overload.

"Mary Margaret, honey, you have had enough TV today. Did you know that there are people on the Earth that don't even have a TV? Some people in this world don't even have enough food to eat. Did you know that? You should just be thankful."

She quietly responded, "Mommy, you are just being irrational."

So much for my teachable moment.

My First Cruise Part I

2009-03-27T08:23:00.002-05:00

We arrived in Port Canaveral on Friday around lunchtime. I was still a little apprehensive. I was not exactly sure that I would enjoy cruising. I had called to check on the girls no less than 10 times because I knew that I would not get to talk to them on Saturday and Sunday (no cell service on my phone and M's phone would be $7.99 / minute). We made it through U.S. Customs and boarded the ship. The weather was warm (70ish) but with a strong breeze. We found the 5th floor and made our way to our room. Below is a picture of our stateroom.

Here is the hubby showing off our room with a view. We had a window!

A picture from the deck of the ship. We were still docked in Port Canaveral. I felt a little like I was on the "Love Boat" and wanted to yell out, "Bon Voyage!"

The pool deck pictured below. The big circular room with all the windows was a great place to get away (very quiet and private). We found it on Saturday night. After I took a few pics, we went and had a smallish lunch (after all it was already 2:30 and I knew a big dinner was going to be served at 6).

After lunch, I couldn't wait to get in my suit and "nose" around the ship. I didn't have much time because we had a lifeboat drill for everyone on the ship at 4:30. As soon as the drill was over, we went back to our room so we could get ready for dinner! Here we are right after the drill!

EEEEWWWW!!!

2009-03-26T14:11:00.002-05:00

I just read THIS ARTICLE and I was completely grossed out. Ick! I know I'm a germ-a-phobe and all, but seriously?!

Now I know that it is a good thing to expose kids to germs so his/her resistance and immunities may build, BUT I wanted to grab my hand sanitizer and slather it on as I read.

My kids have never been to a Chuck E. Cheese's but only because it is about an hour away from us. They do play on restaurant play yards (such as McDonald's and Chick Fil A).

Do your kids play at Chuck E. Cheese's? Do you take your kids to play on restaurant play sets?

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-25T18:15:00.002-05:00

Keepin' It Real

2009-03-21T07:35:00.001-05:00

My girls like to play. They play hard. Evidenced by the picture below of the playroom.

Humor me and tell me that your children's rooms/playrooms look like this. Just tell me yes!

The Art Project

2009-03-20T07:27:00.000-05:00

I have been venturing out and completing a few art projects with Mary Margaret. I saved my old magazines for us for quite some time. We decided to make a collage that represents us. We sat at our kitchen table cutting and glueing for at least 2 hours (HJ was taking a little siesta). Here are the final products. She was so proud of herself and wants to show every single person that comes over.

What sort of art projects do you do with your children? I need all the ideas I can get!

Cruisin'

2009-03-19T18:19:00.003-05:00

Well we are off....

I will be without Internet access for the next 4 days.

(GASP)

How will I cope??

I am sure the ocean will soothe me and maybe, just maybe, a pina colada!

Forgive me if when I return I mark "All as read" on my Google Reader. I'll be sure to take lots of pictures and shop. Don't forget about all that shopping. Oh and sunning, for sure (I'll be wearing my SPF, don't fret)!

And I'll definitely be missing my babies. I've only cried twice today, ok, four times today (say a little prayer that I don't cry all the way to Port Canaveral). I'm having a little bit of the separation anxiety! I said that earlier and MM asked what anxious meant. Mary Margaret, ever the inquisitive one. She loves that vocabulary.

Sorry. I digress.

Have a great weekend!

The Dance Pictures--The Make up Edition

2009-03-19T07:06:00.000-05:00

Mary Margaret had "The Dance Pictures" this past weekend. It was her very first experience with "all that make-up."

As I was putting on her mascara, she said, "I sure like this eye lash lotion." She wouldn't let me take the eye lash lotion off and insisted on wearing it all day long.

Her daddy almost had a heart attack. Here is a close-up of "The Make up Experience." She is wearing her jacket. We will leave you in suspense on the costume.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-18T07:58:00.002-05:00

Here are some shots from a snow day from a few weeks ago! Notice Harper Jane's boots....they are entirely too big, but she pitched a fit to wear them anyway!

Our Family Picture

2009-03-17T07:57:00.001-05:00

We rarely have family pictures made, but we had a shot taken at the Daddy Daughter Date night. I don't have a scanner but here is a picture of the picture.

On another note, we are leaving for our cruise on Thursday night. I've never been on a cruise and I'm so very nervous about leaving the girls (YIKES). Anyone have any suggestions for things that should be taken??

Not Me Monday!

2009-03-16T07:43:00.000-05:00

*I did not drink a 5 hour energy drink not once but twice this week. I would never need more energy because I get plenty of restful, consistent sleep.

*I did not have trouble falling to sleep because of the aforementioned energy drinks.

*I did not allow Harper Jane to destroy a brand new magazine just to keep her busy for a bit.

*I did not ignore the laundry last week and have to play catch up over the weekend. I would never do this because I always stick to my chore schedule.

*I did not ground Mary Margaret from our kitchen table. She uses our table as a desk and boy, is it messy! Between all the craft projects and stickers, we don't have a place to sit down and eat.

*I do not continue to pester the hubby about a dining room table. I would never do that. I'm not that persistent.

What did you NOT do this week! Head over to MckMama's blog and check out other Not Me Mondays!

P.S. Hope everyone on Spring Break has a safe and fun time!

The Cleaning Lady...Oh wait, that's me!

2009-03-13T07:37:00.000-05:00

I wonder how many times a day I pick up around the house. At times, I really do feel like a full time maid. I try not to feel like that often because I know a day will come that I will be wishing I was picking up toys! So for the time being, I'll just let my living room look like this (don't you love the Hello Kitty tent in the background) and let these sweet girls play the day away:

Help!

2009-03-12T07:59:00.000-05:00

We have plaster walls and have yet to hang a single thing on any wall. Do you think this picture (above) should go over my couch in our living room? My camera would not cooperate when I wanted to take a picture of the exact spot over the couch. This canvas would be hung to the right of the lamp centered over the couch. Our old leather couch is chocolate leather. Please tell me what you think. Be honest. The hubby hates this picture and does not want to use it anywhere.

P.S. Please ignore the nice water bottle in the above picture. I know it is a nice addition and all, but....

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-11T07:33:00.001-05:00

Look at these sweet (matching, of course) outfits my aunt got my girls. These are for our town's team!

Our tile choices

2009-03-10T07:06:00.001-05:00

If you are tired of house restoration pictures and commentary, then go ahead and hit the "Back" button!

Here were the choices that we made regarding tile.

Master Bathroom

Guest Bathroom (also you can see the newly purchase vanity)

Kitchen - also the travertine that is around our fireplace (below)

There were so many decisions to make during this renovation process. I am not sure I could ever build a house. Talk about overwhelming!

Not Me Monday!

2009-03-09T13:15:00.000-05:00

*I did not catch Harper Jane eating leaves as we were playing outside. No, she would never. She's much too particular about her eating habits.

*I did not catch Harper Jane digging through the kitchen trash can. No, she would never. She doesn't like to get dirty.

*I did not catch Harper Jane playing in the toilet. No, she would never. She's much too proper.

*I did not catch Harper Jane in the act of putting Littlest Pet Shop animals down the vent (yes she moved the vent cover herself). I did not catch her because she was giggling so very loudly.

Have you noticed a theme here??? Anyway, on we go!

*I did not not make it a week with my "Doing sit-ups every night before our cruise" promise to my self. I would never do that. I have much more self-control.

*I did not turn on Dora and place Harper Jane in the play pen just so I could sleep for 25 more minutes. No, I would never use the TV as a babysitter!

*I did not wish that we had less Dr. Seuss books last week while we were celebrating his birthday. We must have no less than 15 of his books. I am so happy to place them back on the bookshelf.

*I have not put off going to get a bathing suit for the aforementioned cruise. I mean, we leave in 12 days. How much longer can I put it off?

Head over to MckMama's blog and check out other "Not Me Mondays"!!!

Light Fixture

2009-03-07T07:56:00.001-06:00

Don't you adore this antique light fixture we were able to salvage? It was originally in the master bedroom, but we moved it to the hall. I love all the details!

The Foyer

2009-03-06T07:35:00.002-06:00

Welcome to our home!

The picture above is what we saw when we first walked in the front door. Notice the wall heater and parquet flooring. I immediately fell in love with the chandelier. You can see if you were to walk straight, you would run right into the den (or show room as Mary Margaret calls it because this is the room where she gets to watch shows).

Here is where the foyer flows into the living room.

Here is after we had chipped up all the parquet flooring. This is a "during" shot! Every room was the same shade of blue. All the ceilings were also this lovely shade of blue. Needless to say, we may never have a blue room after this restoration experience! I really wanted to paint our bedroom a blue/gray color but Michael adamantly refused after he had to paint all the blue walls and blue ceilings.

Finished product, well, almost finished product. We still need to put down shoe moulding, but it's coming, it's coming. I also want a circular rug for this room....eventually! All our walls are plaster which is why I have yet to hang anything anywhere. I know that wherever I hang something, it must stay there. Plaster walls can be a pain! Do you like this ornate mirror above the foyer credenza?? This credenza was Michael's Mom's. I want to paint it the Million Dollar Red color and distress it a bit, but Michael refuses. Have you noticed that he likes to be involved in every aspect of the decorating process!

The Dining Room

2009-03-05T07:01:00.002-06:00

Here is our Dining Room from beginning to now.

The above picture was taken during our second showing in July of last year. You can see the parquet flooring (later we found pine hardwoods underneath). Also visible is the wall heater. There were 15 wall heaters in our house that we had removed.

Wall Heater Hole

Chipping up the parquet flooring was a lot harder than we anticipated. We completed this labor ourselves. Look what horrible shape the hardwoods were in. That black stuff is glue used to glue down the parquet flooring. I am still amazed that these floors were able to be restored.

We had judge's panels added. Next we had to choose a paint color. Michael is so much better at choosing paint than I am. I wanted red, but more of a brick red. Michael rebelled and chose more of a bright red. He thought is would "flow" better with our other colors. He (with a little help from his Mother) chose Million Dollar Red from the Benjamin Moore paint selection.

Here is the hubby in action. He was painting on the pink primer. If we ever do red again, we will use a gray primer rather than the pink primer. Michael has heard that fewer coats of paint are needed with a gray primer.

The pink primer really SCARED me! I was completely second guessing the color choice. (In the picture is our handy man).

The above picture was taken after two coats. The hubby, ever the painting perfectionist, would not let the red rest until it was fully coated.

Here is the finished product. The walls took FOUR coats. Yes, that's right, my friends, FOUR coats. Now that this lovely room is almost finished (we still need to put down shoe moulding). Don't you think I deserve an antique dining room table (and possibly an antique sideboard/buffet)? I am certainly working on Michael and I think I just might get my way soon! Wish me luck!

Oh and please don't judge me for my messy china cabinets. I have not "placed" everything in the proper places. I am waiting on that sideboard piece for a little more storage. Then I will be able to display my antique china. Antique china, you ask?? Yes, my grandfather was stationed in Japan during the Korean War. He was a medic. While he was there, he sent back an entire set of china (including all the serving pieces) to his mother, my great-grandmother. When my great-grandmother passed away, it was given to my mother who doesn't need it and in turn, passed it to me when I got married. It is 55 years old (ironically the china is the same age as our house) and I love it! What a treasured heirloom!

Wordless Wednesday...Well almost....

2009-03-04T07:52:00.000-06:00

Mary Margaret's new favorite snack....

First you take a pretzal stick.

Then you dip it in your peanut butter (creamy for MM).

Then you go fishing for a goldfish.

Then you scarf it down.

P.S. I think I found this idea on someone's blog so if it happens to be your blog, let me know and I'll give credit where credit is due. On another note, we are having to keep MM's scar on her forehead covered because she keeps messing with it/scratching it.

A Vocabulary Lesson

2009-03-03T07:00:00.000-06:00

This vocabulary lesson is brought to you today by Mary Margaret.

Here are some funny things that she says:

*Instead of Nerds candy, she calls them "Smurfs" as in "I don't want any Smurfs, Mommy."

*Forehead = forward head

*Michael and I are going on a cruise next month and she is calling it our "Field Trip."

*Macaroni Tomato Beef Baby Food = Bite (she still eats this nasty stuff, but she has got to get protein from somewhere). She sometimes wants a "Bite" and applesauce for a snack.

*Losed/lost = Loos-ted. We are working on teaching her that the appropriate term is lost.

*She calls the local theatre/auditorium the "house with the stage"! We formerly lived one street over and the theatre is located in a neighborhood. The theatre does look a little like a house in her defense.

*She still calls her sippy cup of warmed milk that she gets in the morning, her "bottle." I know, I know. Humor me, she is still my baby!

*Praise music = God songs. I am so thankful that she adores Praise music and does she ever love to sing it....

*Tattoos = stamps as in "That person did not wash off his/her stamp while in the bathtub." I don't even know what to say.

*The Disney Store = Disneyland. She would rather go to The Disney Store than Build-A-Bear. Every time.

*Hershey's kisses = Nene's chocolates because my Nene (MM's great-grandmother) ALWAYS has kisses at her house.

Not Me Monday

2009-03-02T07:36:00.000-06:00

I have not participated in Not Me Monday in a while but I felt the need to revisit it as I am ashamed of several things I didn't do last week!

*I did not force everyone to take off shoes when coming into our house. I did not spend 2 1/2 hours sweeping and steam cleaning all the floors with my Shark Steamer.

*I did not beg incessantly for a dining room table (and china cabinet and buffet) for my very empty dining room. I did not demand that it all be antique. I would never be demanding.

*I did not spend 3 hours of my time on eBay searching for matching smocked clothing for the girls as they both did not watch too much TV and they certainly did not demolish the living room. They are too sweet to do something like that.

*I did not stay in pajamas all day on Saturday.

*I did not stay on the phone for 2 hours on Saturday (um, hello, I really loathe the phone on normal days). I did not enjoy catching up with old friends.

*I did not allow Mary Margaret "bedazzle" things with sequins. She did not really bedazzle the kitchen floor while she was at it.

What did you NOT do this week? Head over to MckMama's place and check out some other Not Me Mondays!