Mommy Brain

Fall 2011

2011-10-09T10:08:00.001-07:00

Riverfest 2010

2011-03-21T17:03:00.000-07:00

Will's First Birthday

2011-03-21T16:16:00.001-07:00

Birthday boy!
He loves the park :)
He also loves his granddaddy!
I can't believe he is one!!
Granddaddy, Mimi, and Laura Grace
He insisted on using his fork.
Happy Birthday, Sweet Will :)
Cousins!
Daddy and Will

PARTY AT MAMAW'S HOUSE....
Will LOVED his cake
As you can see...
He really didn't understand the whole blowing out the candle thing...
The cake BEFORE it was destroyed
Will and his Aunt Barbara
Mamaw and Laura Grace. Mamaw is receiving hospice care from her home.
Will already has an impressive arm and loves baseball!
Reed, Laura Grace, and Layton.
This is what Will spends the majority of his time doing...getting into trouble!

Pioneer Day

2010-09-19T05:24:00.001-07:00

Our local museum has a Pioneer Day every year. Local volunteers and artisans come and teach children (and parents) about Pioneer life. Laura Grace, Aunt Barbara, and I spent the morning learning from demonstrators and hand on activities what it was like to live in the 1800's!

Laura Grace churned butter...

Ground corn into meal...

Took corn from the husk...

Washed clothes with lye and wrung them dry...

And, finally, after a hard day's work, sat in the outhouse!

Shoe Shopping

2010-09-17T12:46:00.000-07:00

My children are fashion snobs. I guess they come by it honestly. You really couldn't tell by looking at me because since I can't find anything I want to buy this fall and none of my clothes fit because I purged everything that wasn't maternity while pregnant so I am pretty much doomed to wearing hoodies, tshirts, and jeans. Hoodies, t-shirts, and jeans that I have had since...oh...college.

Wait, I do have some new t-shirts thanks to Junior Auxillary. We are some t-shirt making/buying/wearing girls. Every time we have a new fundraiser/service project/idea...BAM! T-shirt! Don't get me wrong, I am always up for a new shirt.

Anyway.

I am rambling.

My point is that I threw away everything because I went a little insane nesting and decided that there was no point keeping my clothes because I would never be thin again. To be honest, I am still not thin but I could have fit in those clothes.

But again...I am rambling.

I should be talking about shoes here.

Okay, so today we went shoe shopping. I thought Laura Grace would be thrilled because she is very into picking out her own clothes and shoes this year. I knew Layton would be less than excited and Will would scream so I brought lots of snacks and hoped for the best.

I should have prayed instead of hoped.

Laura Grace took one look at the available shoes and turned her nose up, "too boring", she announced. I admit, I actually agree with her. I was appalled at the shoes. They were not boring at all. In fact, they were far from it! Why do shoe manufacturers think that little girls should have heels higher than mine and enough glitter for fifteen princesses?!

Layton looked over the shoe selections more carefully, willingly tried on a few pairs, and after jogging in place says, "They are all too slow. I need some fast shoes."

That was it. His mind was completely, absolutely made up. Layton very rarely puts his foot down but when he does, it is final!!

In the chaos of trying on shoes and trying to convince Layton that gray is not a girl color, Will was very happily eating a check out of my purse. It just so happens it was my last check from my checkbook and even if we had found a pair of shoes we would have had no way to pay for them. I admitted defeat and we all went home to take naps!

11 months old!!

2010-09-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

I am 11 months old now!! Actually, next week I turn one. So, this is a little late. But better late than never!

In my opinion, and I have many opinions, I am grown.

I play with trains, cars, and action figures. I chew on the action figures more than I actually "play" with them but it is the thought that counts. I love nothing more than to play with my big brother and sister. I want to do everything that they do!

I am clapping my hands, waving bye bye, playing peek a boo, wrestling, and WALKING! I now walk everywhere-I rarely crawl anymore. I am trying to run but I still trip and fall :(. I am also pointing my finger and saying, "this". I love for people to tell me the names of objects and then I try to repeat them.

I can say a few words! I say, "Laura Grace" (aura dace), "Layton" (adan), "this", "shoe", and of course "mama", "dada", and "no".

I am wearing a size 4.5 extra wide shoe! I am in size 18 month clothes and size 4 diaper. I am a big boy!! I am 25 pounds.

I have four teeth and know how to use them! Right now I am busy learning that it is not nice to bite, pinch, or hit. I get a tad bit aggressive when I do not get my way! I think that the remote and cell phones are mine and it makes me very upset when I have to share them.

I am a sweet boy and love to rock and sing "Jesus Loves Me." I also have a best friend named Goat. Goat is a stuffed mountain goat and I sleep with him every night.

Shopping and me.

2010-09-15T12:59:00.000-07:00

When I was a teenager I loved to shop. I would walk into the food court of the mall, smell the intoxicating scent of Asian food and french fries and immediately feel the adrenaline rush shooting through my veins.

I could spend HOURS at the mall and somehow, with a mere twenty bucks, come away with several outfits. I had a rare gift when it came to scouring the clearance racks. It was glorious.

And then I grew up.

And got married.

And got broke.

Had kids.

Three kids.

And am now broker.

I also home school and just butchered every grammar rule. Whatever.

Shopping now consists of lugging three squealing children around. When we walk into the food court they are drawn to the merry go round and french fries like addicts to crack cocaine. My sweet little children's eyes glaze over as visions of the Barnes and Noble train table and book shelves dance through their heads. We go through the mall repeatedly telling them that they can not have the lotions, ipods, cell phones, new age crystals, orthopedic shoes, and pillow pets that are so proudly displayed in the aisles. By the time we get to the department stores to shop we have already spent our clothing budget because one of them has managed to hit yet another growth spurt and we had to spend our life savings in Gymboree.

Ya'll know what I mean. We are mostly all mommas here. And if not mommas to babies, then to furry children who also need clothing and ridiculously expensive flea medication.

Shopping for myself these days is a rare and momentous occasion. It is also a very humbling occasion. I have completely lost the knack of finding cute, stylish clothing on sale. IF (and it is a big if), IF I find a pair of pants that make my rear end look perky then they are at least half of our monthly income. Not really, but they might as well be!! Don't even get me started on the dresses that are all too short, the shirts that have lost their sleeves (somehow they are supposed to be for fall), and prints that should only be found on a ranch somewhere.

Am I alone in this?

Is anyone else perturbed by the western wear look? Does anyone know how to wear it?!? Does anyone else think that the shades of pink and gray that fill the stores this fall are just...depressing?!

I have a feeling I am about to get lots of comments from people who are currently wearing a fantastic plaid shirt and gray leggings.

Shopping just makes me weary. I stand in the dressing room with countless pairs of jeans piled around me and just want to wave a white flag. So far this fall I have found a cute jean jacket. I figure I can wear that over...something. Yoga pants maybe. My maternity ones.

Sigh.

Attack of the Strep

2010-09-15T05:49:00.001-07:00

When we get sick around here, we do it well. We are not just a little sick. Nope, not us. We all get can't get out of bed because I feel like I am dying sick.

Around one o'clock Sunday morning Will woke up wheezing and struggling to breath. Five hours later in the ER they determine it is croup. I come home to find Laura Grace burning with fever. I then realize I don't feel well myself. Clay then tells me he also feels sick. By Monday afternoon we have all been diagnosed with strep and sinus infections. Yay.

Layton is the only one who has escaped the illness. He proclaimed that he is not sick, he is NOT taking medicine, and he is NOT letting that doctor touch him. Luckily for him (and me), his granddaddy picked him up Monday afternoon and he has been with him and his Aunt Barbara ever since then. I called him yesterday to see if he was ready to come home and his response was, "I am not sick. See you later!"

Thank goodness for having family in town! We have been able to lay low and just get better. Thankfully the antibiotics kicked in fast and I am feeling much better. Clay is also better as is Will. Laura Grace is still running fever but she had been complaining of a sore throat for several days before she was diagnosed with strep so I think she had it for awhile before we realized she was sick.

It is all random...

2010-09-10T14:40:00.001-07:00

But these are things that I want to remember :)

Life right now is so, so busy. I know everyone can say this and I am preaching to the choir! However, when I look back at this season of life I don't want to remember the running to ballet, tumbling, and soccer. The Junior Auxillary meetings will certainly not come to mind and even the hours we spend at church activities will probably be a blur. What I want to remember is the sight and sound of my children playing in my home. These are things that I am loving right now!

Layton:

He has become obsessed with playing in the dirt. He takes his construction vehicles and this tiny plastic gorilla outside (because it has a booty-horrifying yet hilarious) and sits in the dirt. FOR HOURS.

He is also crazy about Buzz Lightyear, any CARS character/vehicle, Ironman, and Spiderman. It amazes me how little boys are so fascinated with superheroes. He has never seen any of the shows because I find them dark and violent, but yet he still loves the idea of the characters.

I love how he walks around singing praise and worship music. We listen to it in the car and at home and the songs are always in his head!

Finally, Layton is full of questions about heaven and God. I love it. When we tuck him in at night he always asks to cuddle and pray. He wants to pray and has genuine conversations with God. I love how he is overflowing with thankfulness for everything God has given us. And then, after praying, he wants to talk about "that heaven place". He also asks questions about hell and monsters. He then got this wild idea that monsters should be eaten with mustard and ketchup like hot dogs. Weirdness.

Laura Grace:

She thinks she knows everything. Absolutely EVERYTHING. This can be frustrating and often leads to me disciplining her but at the same time I love watching this independent, strong willed child begin to mature. She is confident in herself and her opinions! It is challenging to know how to channel this appropriately but it is a challenge I am so thankful for.

She adores her brothers. Laura Grace is a sweet, loving sister who is always willing to play with her brothers. Well...almost always! When I ask her to play with Will for a few minutes so I can get some housework done or dinner on the table she comes up with fun games for him. She is always hugging and kissing him spontaneously. With Layton she is equally loving. They have become very close over the summer and these past weeks of homeschooling. Now that they no longer spend the majority of the week apart they have built a strong friendship that I am so thankful for.

Her wild imagination, high pitched giggle, and goofy knock knock jokes crack me up!

Will:

Affectionately known as Willy T. Or Wilbur. Poor Will...

Will is my explosive bundle of sheer determination and bravado. He sees no obstacles, only the opportunity to get around them. Will never stops moving. If you ask him for a kiss nowadays he will lean over obligingly and allow you to peck his forehead as he toddles away. If he is hungry he will sit still long enough to swallow a few bites and then with little warning he is screeching to get down and go play some more.

He thinks he is Layton's age. He wrestles, crashes cars, and plays trains with the best of them. He has no desire for baby toys because he truly thinks he is grown!

He loves the song, "Jesus Loves Me". When I sing it he knows it is time to rock and go to sleep. He lays his head on me and for a few precious minutes we cuddle and sing together. He says "sheshus" and hums. Precious. When I lay him down he grabs his stuffed goat (don't ask) and reaches behind him for his blanket.

His favorite words are "GACE!!" (Laura Grace), "AYT!" (Layton), "DAD!" (yes, no dada or daddy. He is grown, you know), "DIS" (this), and finally....drumroll please...

"Clay."

No, "Mommy" or "Mom". Nope, just "Clay." He gets a huge thrill out of shouting his father's name and shocking everyone.

I know this was such a Mommy post. I post that I probably will only enjoy! But I am so glad that I will get to go back in a few years when these precious years have passed and remember!

Happy 7th Birthday, Laura Grace!!

2010-08-14T08:56:00.001-07:00

The cake!!

My nephew Reed and Layton

Layton and his Uncle Drew

You can tell by looking at Will how hot it was!

The presents...

Birthday Girl!!

The cake was a big hit. Unfortunately, so was the mermaid on the cake. 15 girls arguing over who gets to eat the mermaid was not only...um...frustrating it was also a little morbid! HA!

Clay and I got Laura Grace her first American Girl doll! We chose one that looks just like Laura Grace. She was thrilled!

The pinata. I went all over creation searching for one. I will never, ever do a pinata again. A child swinging with a bat at a swinging object while all the other children are running around screaming...not pretty.

Laura Grace's, Aunt Barbara, saved the girls from concussions. She is a former school teacher and immediately used her teacher's voice to get them all in an orderly line.

It didn't remain orderly for long. I don't remember what child actually...okay, FINALLY...busted the pinata but it was mass chaos after that.

Of course, the chaos was all worth it. Laura Grace had a wonderful party and is now seven years old! It is hard to believe!!

Wizard of Oz!!

2010-08-14T06:07:00.000-07:00

This summer, Laura Grace took part in our local childrens' production of the "Wizard of Oz".

She was in the Lullaby League (the munchkins that sing to Dorothy when she lands in Oz). She did a great job and we are very proud of her!

Last night, over 700 people came to watch the show. Tonight, we are expecting the same numbers! I am so proud of all the hours the kids (and adults) put into this production. They worked their behinds off all summer.

Layton was very impressed with the entire production. During the tornado he said, "Wow! This is serious!"

We left Will at home with a babysitter so we could enjoy spending time with our "big kids". We took them out for ice cream afterwards to celebrate Laura Grace's hard work!

We have a walker!!

2010-08-13T05:16:00.000-07:00

Last night, Will decided to start walking. First, he let go of a chair and took two steps. He fell and crawled back to the chair. He pulled back up, let go, and stood there grinning at me and Clay as we yelled and clapped. He then took two shaky steps towards us. We were so proud!

He also has two teeth! Finally!

Family 2010

2010-08-04T06:32:00.001-07:00

10 Months Old!!

2010-08-04T05:09:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I am 10 months old! I keep insisting I am older. These days I am as busy as always. The bathroom and Layton's room are my favorite places. I love to play in the toilet and climb on top of the train table. I have also shaken the train table so hard that it fell apart. My daddy fixed it, but I keep trying to shake it apart again. In fact, grabbing on to things and shaking them is my favorite thing to do!

I have learned how to stand up without holding on to anything. My legs are still too unsteady to take steps, but I am working on it! I have learned to play patty cake, give high fives, and pinch when I am angry. I also growl when I pinch and everyone laughs but I have a feeling I will not be getting away with it for much longer. I crawl around really fast and when I think someone is going to pick me up, I fuss at them. I am too busy to be held most of the time. However, when I am ready to be picked up I let everyone know. I am very loud. I reward them by giving big kisses and hugs.

I am 24 pounds and getting tall. I am wearing a size 3 diaper, 12 month clothes, and look very...healthy. I am eating all table food. Last week I decided that I don't like baby food anymore. This was right after Mommy had just bought me a bunch. She loved that. My favorite food right now is scrambled eggs. The only vegetable I will eat right now is mashed potatoes. It is all about the carbs with me.

I am sleeping better at night-I go to bed around 7, wake up at 12 for a bottle and then sleep until 5. Most nights. There are still nights that I wake up in between 12 and 5 but those are getting few and far in between. I take 2 naps a day-one at 9 and the other around 1.

I am growing fast!!

Where is Christy?

2010-07-29T11:58:00.000-07:00

I would love to write more.

I would love to write well thought out posts that capture my life right now. I want to be able to look back and remember this time in my life.

However, Will would much rather play in the toilet.

In fact, in the ten seconds I took to sit and write this, Will has climbed on top of the window sill and licked dust off of it. Just keeping it real.

One day I will be able to sit for more than ten seconds. One day.

Will's Baby Dedication

2010-07-26T05:03:00.000-07:00

Will's Baby Dedication was yesterday. It was a very special day for my family and for the most part it went off without a hitch. Will went to our pastor without complaint...he did look at the congregation suspiciously.

And there was the speaker incident...Layton was fascinated by them.

Layton also got a little restless. Laura Grace stood like a statue. A very stoic one. She took my request to be quiet and still VERY seriously.

But, for the most part it was wonderful. All three children were on their best behaviour. During this prayer, Will got a little disturbed that our pastor laid hands on him. He said, "NO!" and flung them off his head. Layton was giving my father in law (who was taking pictures) thumbs up.

Finally, at the very end, Will began hanging upside down and laughing. He had realized that while he is the center of attention he might as well cut up.

The Honeymoon

2010-07-22T14:28:00.000-07:00

It happens to everyone. You get back from your honeymoon full of excitement and that giddy, all -consuming love for your husband. You think that marriage is so easy! What was everyone else talking about?!? What hard work?! What in the world could be hard about living with the love of your life? It is about that time that you sit down on the toilet and fall in because the seat was left up. Or, you walk into the kitchen you just painstakingly scrubbed to see his muddy, grassy footprints across the lineoleum.

Welcome to reality.

It happens again when you have a baby. You spend nine blissful months cradling that tiny life in your womb. You dream of names, of baby grins and that wonderful, beautiful baby smell. You picture rocking and singing, long walks with the stroller on fall days, and laughter...lots and lots of baby laughter. Then, about four weeks post partum you are sitting in the rocking chair, covered in spit up and breastmilk, holding a screaming baby, and realizing that owe your poor parents an apology!

I have realized that any major change in your life can be compared to marriage and having babies. Like homeschooling for instance. You spend months planning curriculum. You daydream about building log cabins and taking nature walks. You think about Thanksgiving units complete with Pilgrim costumes... The all inclusive you by the way means...um...me.

And, like all honeymoon periods, the honeymoon ends and reality comes crashing in. Reality in the form of an insect eating baby, an almost seven year old throwing her pencil and screaming that she hates school, and your four year old dumping apple juice all over his train table and offering the explanation that "A is for apple juice".

Hello, reality.

Thankfully, like the ending of a honeymoon and the glow that only pain medication and nurses that wait on you hand and foot can bring, comes work that can be frustrating but at the same time so rewarding you wake up each day thankful for it. The marriage with the muddy footprints is still the most precious relationship in your life. That crying, screaming baby does eventually laugh and may sit still in a stroller long enough for a quick jog on a fall day. That is where I am at now. I am at that tenuous phase where the honeymoon has ended and I am realizing what I am getting myself into. I am not sure how to handle that pencil throwing almost seven year old or the baby bent on self-destruction. But, I have learned to keep the four year old busy at my side and to give lots of kisses to all three of them. I figure that is enough to build on.

I was one of those...

2010-07-16T02:35:00.001-07:00

While pregnant with Laura Grace, I scoffed at the mere idea that my house would be taken over by a child. Not ours, I assured Clay. I would go into homes that had toys strewn from one end to the other and I would inwardly roll my eyes. My children would be motivated by the same inner neat freak force that controlled me and they would never make such a mess. I even went so far as to tell Clay that all these parents had to do was tell their kids that toys belong in the playroom-they should not be seen by guests or even the parents for that matter...

I was very young.

Then, Laura Grace came exploding into our lives with every inch of her being quivering with the sheer joy of being alive. And, consequently, making messes that nearly made my hair turn white. I followed her around for two years attempting to cultivate a neat freak. I had little to no success. I fully blame Clay who would come home, see the pots and pans strewn from the kitchen to her bedroom and laugh. Then, Layton was born and in the post partum throes of those first few months, I let it happen.

A toy bin appeared in the living room.

Suddenly, our carefully decorated and oh so scrubbed home became a toy bin containing time bomb. It happened little by little, but soon, before I could comprehend anything beyond breastfeeding and potty training, the toy bin became full. The full toy bin turned into toys stacked around it. Then, they toys became not so stacked. Finally, one day I had to face it. My living room was a playroom.

I was dumbfounded. I stood in my foyer, holding a six month old Layton, and wondered what had happened to my neat, orderly life. Then, because they are my children, Layton's diaper exploded and Laura Grace ran by with finger paint smeared all over her. It was somewhere in that moment that I surrendered to the fact that I was one of those parents. I had joined the league of the normals. My house would never look like a magazine again.

For several years I accepted this. I would work hard to keep the toys picked up, to train Laura Grace in helping me, and trying not to beat my head against the wall as Layton pretended not to see the toys I was asking him to pick up. Then, because I love me some babies, Will was born. My house fell into the realm of toy/clothes/art projects gone awry/muddy dog running through the house/no clean underwear again chaos. It took nine months for me to reclaim my routine of cleaning and training so that my house is at least presentable when my inlaws drop by unannounced. Not that this happens of course. Ahem.

But, suddenly, I find myself at a crossroads. Homeschooling has introduced a whole new dilemma to my neat freak standards. I love my dining room and its cleanliness. I love that it contains a table, a sideboard, and highchair. There are no toys or books in sight. Or, rather, there wasn't. Until homeschooling. Now books and school supplies sit in stacks on my table and in cardboard boxes. They are neat stacks and organized boxes, but still boxes and stacks. I find myself contemplating what is most important-having a "pretty" dining room or a functional school room that everyone one will see, including the mailman because you can see it from our front door and I don't know if I want the mail man to see our timelines and calendars and... I don't know if I want to lose the dining room to school.

If you are still with me in this post of ridiculous amounts of grammar errors and run on sentences, what would you think if you came into a home and saw the evidence of school everywhere? Would you be able to eat and feel welcome in a home with art projects and alphabet letters staring down at you?

I know the shallowness of this dilemma. As dilemmas go, it is really very minor and not even much of a dilemma. But at four o'clock in the morning, as Will crawls around laughing wildly and as I browse through the Container Store's website, it seems crucial that I get this solved. By the way, the Container Store is having a sale...

Midnight Happenings

2010-07-15T05:07:00.000-07:00

Clay has been out of town all week and Will has been sick with a lovely combination of hand, foot, and mouth, an ear infection, and teething. That has meant six consecutive nights of waking every hour.

It hasn't been pretty.

To give you a picture of my life/thoughts in the middle of the night...

1:00 a.m.: Will wakes up crying. I stumble blearily over to his crib, only to run into the rocking chair, door frame, and somehow end up in the bathroom. I turn on the light and stare at myself for a few seconds before I comprehend that I am in the wrong room. I go back into my bedroom, get Will out of the crib and mercifully manage to find the rocking chair without killing myself.

2:00 a.m. Will is crying again. I jump up and walk around the room, still searching for the crib. I find it by stubbing my toe on it. I pick up Will, discover he has a high fever, and turn on the light. Will, hyped up on sheer delerium, grins at me and begins to babble wildly. We have a very serious discussion about Tylenol vs. Motrin and diaper rashes. I find myself asking him bizarre questions and expecting him to answer. We settle back into the rocking chair and I rock him until his fever cools. As I am rocking him I think about how three children is a perfect number.

3:30 a.m. More crying. This time muscle memory takes over and I find the crib while still asleep. I don't fully wake up until I am sitting in the rocking chair and Will bites me. He immediately apologizes by wiping the contents of his nose on my neck. I kiss his hot little forehead, feel the wieght of his full diaper in my hand, and attempt to muster the energy to give him a bath. I then realize that the dampness of his back is not sweat from a breaking fever-it is a leaking diaper. I kiss his head again and think about how it doesn't seem right to have an odd number of children but that I would need to invest in a caffeine i.v. I give Will one last cuddle and stand to go run him a bath. Will looks up at me and gives me a gummy grin. I smile and then he throws up. All over me. We both get a bath. Odd numbers are appealing again.

4:45 a.m. Fever has finally broken. I put Will back in bed, stumble to my bed and fall asleep. Five minutes later I hear Will laugh and he starts calling for "ba-ba" (bottle). I make him a bottle, he drinks two ounces, and then falls asleep. I lay him back down and go back to bed. I realize that the sun will be rising in about ten minutes and since my children are all solar powered it is fruitless to try and sleep any longer. I make coffee and work on my Bible Study. Sure enough, Layton comes out of his room bright eyed and bushy tailed right as I am closing my Bible.

A Meek and Quiet Spirit

2010-07-13T07:56:00.000-07:00

I was going to put this on my homeschool blog, but realized that it belonged here.

I have a problem with raising my voice.

Not yelling, of course. Raising my voice. Angrily.

I used to excuse this as normal and sometimes necessary behavior. For instance, when my three year old cut herself some bangs or my two year old lets in the muddy dogs onto my white carpet...surely that warrants a good yell? What I refused to realize is the damage it does not only to my credibility as a mom, but to the relationships with my children.

And, you fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Eph. 6:4

When I "raise my voice" it does nothing but create fear or anger in my children. Laura Grace, is very strong willed and gets angry. Layton is very mild mannered so he gets scared. Will raises his fist and yells right along with me. Not pretty.

I should be nurturing and administering discipline out of love, not out of anger or frustration. I should see every chance to correct my children as an opportunity to teach them and to help their characters grow! When I lose it and start yelling at them, I am doing none of those things. I am merely losing it. How can I expect my children to respect me if I have no self control?

A few weeks ago I read Homeschooling With A Meek And Quiet Spirit. It was life changing. Not only did it further convict me of my actions, but it encouraged me! Even if you are not planning on homeschooling, it applies to anyone who cares for children.

A word of caution... I don't agree with everything the author says. Scripturally, she is dead on. There is nothing said that is necessarily wrong, I just have different perspectives. She is very conservative (think Duggars) and has a wonderful family. However, while I respect and admire that staunch conservatism, it is a tad legalistic to me. I read some of her thoughts and took them as that-her thoughts and opinions. This in no way took away from her valuable message.

Now am I a non-yelling, meek spirited mom? Um...no. I am working on it! I am fully relying on God to help me in this. He created me to be a passionate, outspoken person but He also gave me the ability to control my tongue and use my zeal in a good way-not in the screaming lunatic because my kids are fighting again way.

Birthday Parties Galore!

2010-07-12T05:05:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a party weekend. That sounds bad, but by parties I mean birthday parties. Something happens when your child turns three. Suddenly, their social calendar is full of more birthday parties than it seems possible. Summer is the worst. Well, I don't know if I should say WORST... I love that my children have friends and that their friends have awesome birthdays. However, the all day Saturday shuttling from party to party can get tiring. Not for my children of course. My children get quite delirious from the ice cream and cake consumption. They come home starry eyed with visions of their future birthday's dancing in their heads. No, it is the parents that just feel like they can not do another party. I was very excited when Laura Grace reached the age of dropping her off at parties!! We do have rules about this. I have to know the parents very well and know what children will be attending...but that is another post.

I am digressing terribly.

The above picture was Laura Grace at a pool party. She also had a slumber party (she stayed up all night) and a "fashion" party this weekend. She was exhausted yesterday and after play practice (did I mention she is in the Wizard of Oz this fall?) she ate dinner and went to bed!
Friday night, Layton and I went to his best buddy, Joseph's, house. Joseph's mommy, Jenny, is one of my good friends and his other friend's mommies are also my good friends... ya'll get the picture. We had a great time visiting and while I took a picture of us, I didn't get one of the party. Why is that?!

And this party boy? What has he done all weekend?

Ran fever, chewed on pieces of furniture, and got himself numerous goose eggs on his forehead.

My Baby Boy

2010-07-08T16:05:00.000-07:00

Metamorphosis

2010-07-06T17:20:00.000-07:00

Did anyone read the grotesque story of a boy that turns into a beetle? It is a "classic" piece of literature that I was forced to read in highschool. I have fortunately blocked out the title of the passage...and the author....

Wait. No, I didn't.

It just came to me.

The Metamorphosis by Frank Kafka.

If you haven't read it...don't. It is a big existentialist nightmare.

Anyway.

Today we discussed how caterpillars turn into butterflies. We have a butterfly garden complete with five caterpillars that have just turned themselves into chrysalids. Apparently, that is the plural of chrysalis. I had to google it.

So, we are reading our science book about the stages of metamorphosis and I am explaining this big word to Layton and Laura Grace. We discuss how small and helpless caterpillars are-they crawl around in their ugly little bodies doing nothing but searching for food. Then, by God's grace, they change into beautiful butterflies that are free to fly around. I then brought the whole spiritual analogy behind it into play and was really getting into how God's love is so amazing. It was a beautiful moment. Both kids were so excited and even had eyes full of wonder. Then they spoke.

"YAY!!! God is going to turn me into a butterfly!!" (Layton).

"But, wait! I think caterpillars are beautiful! I want to be a caterpillar!" (Laura Grace).

I was so deflated. But, only momentarily. I pulled out some scripture and managed to salvage the situation. Somewhat.

Still, Layton asked me a little later if he could metamorphosis into a cloud.

At least he grasped the vocab word of the day.

I am insane

2010-07-05T10:31:00.001-07:00

Ladies (and a few gentlemen), I have officially purchased my homeschool curriculum.

There is no going back.

Whenever I make a huge announcement like this I hear the Star Wars and Star Trek music. Yes, both of them at the same time. Yes, I have issues.

Anyway.

I can't say that homeschooling is going perfectly. Because, it is actually very imperfect.

For example...

I wrote Layton's name on a piece of construction paper and gave him glue and Cheerios with the instructions to glue Cheerios on the outline of his name. I then turn my attention to Laura Grace and begin teaching her math. Meanwhile, Layton happily paints the table with glue and drops the Cheerios one by one on the floor so Will can eat them.

Another example...

I am giving our Bible lesson to the kids while Will crawls around the dining room. By the end of the lesson Layton is convinced he shouldn't get hair cuts (we discussed Samson and obeying God) Will has fallen and hit his head, and Laura Grace is hanging upside down in her chair asking for a snack.

And, finally, the crowning glory of why I am crazy to homeschool.

While teaching my children about the Oregon Trail...

Will ate a roly poly.

Oh, the horror.

Poison control laughed as loud as my children in the background.

Despite all the chaos of a nine month old bent on self destruction, a four year old who thinks he should be doing everything his sister does, and a six year old who is well...herself.... I am loving it. Absolutely loving it.

9 Months

2010-06-22T05:39:00.001-07:00

My mom says I am nine months now. I think she is wrong because I think I am at least 2. I am crawling all over the house and pulling up on everything. I am trying to take steps and I think it is really funny because my mommy panics. I hate how she is always there, trying to keep me from falling. I push away her hands and tell her, "NONONONONONONO." I am a mess.

I am also really, really loud. I squeal, grunt, crow, yell, squeal some more and when all else fails I scream. I am not mad when I do this, I am talking! It makes me really happy when you talk back. And when I get past my mommy and break into the bathroom.

I still have no teeth. This doesn't stop me from eating pretty much everything. Right now my favorite food is watermelon. It is delicious after swimming. Speaking of swimming, I go every afternoon. Mommy makes me wear sunscreen and a hat-I scream and tell her how much I hate this. I love being in the pool and curl up against her and nap. It is very relaxing.

Right now I am wearing 12 month clothes, a size 3 or 4 diaper (depends on the brand), and I weigh almost 23 pounds. I eat breakfast at 6, lunch at 11, and dinner at 5. I have a bottle in between each meal and several during the night. Mommy is trying to make me sleep through the night but I am pretty persistent. And loud. I wake up the whole house so they give in and give me my bottles. Mommy is rather nervous about my strong will.

This past month has been a lot of fun for me. I have developed my personality, I am mobile, and I am ACTIVE. Mommy says she is just exhausted.

Father's Day

2010-06-21T05:02:00.000-07:00

He would kill me if he saw this picture.

We had a great Father's Day. Did I take pictures? No. I have become one of those moms that fail miserably in the photography department. I keep thinking if I had a fabulous camera that I would actually remember it. Or, at the very least, remember to charge the battery so it can be used.

Anyway.

Clay had a great day. Laura Grace, Will, and I got up very early and made Clay omelets and biscuits. Laura Grace carried him coffee in bed (most of it stayed in the mug). We went to church as a family and then had lunch at my inlaws. Laura Grace made cards for everyone-including my brother in law who is a new step-father. We got Clay a book, baseball cap, and a shirt.

After lunch, I spent the afternoon reading.

Yes, reading.

Me.

Not the father, the mother.

My sweet husband kicked the kids outside to play in the sprinkler, Will took a long nap, and I sat on the couch all afternoon reading. Clay relaxed as well, watching some random man show on television. It was a wonderful day!

Layton's 3yr. Preschool Graduation

2010-06-19T06:23:00.000-07:00

Summer...

2010-06-19T05:52:00.000-07:00

Will and Laura Grace at Grandmother's house. They like to make pallets on the floor and cuddle/play.
Will has a lot of fun!
Layton eating strawberry shortcake and "real" Coke. No diets at Grandmothers.
Laura Grace at her award ceremony. She got All A Honor Roll every nine weeks :)
Laura Grace with her medal. We were SO proud of her!

So far, this summer has been busy! We did the VBS thing. Saddle Ridge Ranch was a big hit with my kids. Layton loved the music and performed accordingly on stage during Family Night. Laura Grace sang with the "big kid" choir and was beautiful. Will went to nursery every day and was unbelievably spoiled. He still thinks that he should be held and rocked all day!

We have been doing a lot of swimming-in fact, Layton can now swim better than me! Will enjoys the pool as well. He tucks in his legs, buries his face in my neck, and begins blowing raspberries and humming until he falls asleep. Every. Single. Time. It works out well because I can just walk around the pool while the other kids play.

Clay and I celebrated 8 yrs. of marriage last month. His parents kept the kids overnight and it was wonderful! We went to Memphis and saw the musical, Oliver. I loved the music and we sat in the second row so it felt like we were right there on stage. Afterwards we came back home and enjoyed the quiet house. We slept in the next morning and that was much needed. Will did really well on his first sleepover at Mimi and Grandaddy's house. I don't think he realized I was gone!

Layton played six weeks of Tball. He loved it! He was so excited about each game and would grin from ear to ear out on the field. It was amazing (and hilarious) how much progress he made from the first game to the last.

Some more pictures...

Will. In all his chubby glory.
Layton-resting after swimming.

This is the reality of my house. I love it and hate it at the same time.

Laura Grace-resting after swimming. She was watching the Little Mermaid, her current favorite movie.

8 Months Old!!

2010-05-25T04:40:00.001-07:00

Now that I am 8 months old, I have decided that I am far too old for sleep. I am grown now. I have also decided I should be walking-that crawling stuff takes work and I don't have time for that. I pull up on everything and then take steps. What I have not figured out yet is how to work my legs... I fall and hurt myself over and over and over again but Mommy and Daddy named me well. Will. I have a lot of it!

This month has been a lot of fun. I have eaten amazing things like pizza, gravy, and chocolate chip muffins. I still do not have teeth but that hasn't stopped me! I am also eating more baby food. I am no longer picky about it because when I am hungry, watch out! I really like green beans but they give me a really bad diaper rash.

At the doctor I weighed 20 1/2 pounds and I am 27 inches. I am wearing 12 month clothes and size 3 or 4 diaper-it depends on the brand.

Dance Recital 2010

2010-05-21T13:36:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day

2010-05-12T09:40:00.000-07:00

I love these kids!

Laura Grace painted this piece of pottery for me at school. She managed to keep it a secret and I was so impressed!

My goofy daughter...and Will's suspicious face. He was rather tired of all the photographs.

Opening my presents...

This is the dress and jewelry my sweet husband and children picked out for me. I was so excited!

My mother in law and family...we tried for a picture with all the grandchildren. It was pretty much impossible.

Me and my sweet baby.

Will helped me open my gifts. He really enjoyed the ribbon.

Clay was exhausted after lunch. Apparently, so was Will.

My family made Mother's Day so special for me. Clay is in charge of sound and lights for every worship service and has to be at church early on Sunday mornings. I assumed that he would not have the time to cook breakfast or let me sleep in that morning. Well, my sweet husband got up at the crack of dawn, made me pancakes, and ironed all of our clothes for church. He woke me up with a cup of coffee and fed the kids so I could eat a quiet, uninterrupted breakfast. It was wonderful!

After church, we went to Grandmother's house for lunch. The men served the mothers and it was so nice to sit and relax while Clay took care of everything. After lunch we opened gifts and relaxed some more. Later that afternoon my Aunt Cindy and Uncle Steve came over for a few hours. Steve and Clay took the kids outside so me and Cindy could talk in peace. We had a great time catching up.

That evening the kids went to bed earlier than usual. Clay cooked dinner and we watched "Leap Year". It was a great end to a fabulous day!

Beach 2010

2010-05-10T12:36:00.000-07:00

Layton and his cousin, Coen, at Mikee's. They realized the same shirt had been packed for them and demanded that they wear it at the same time. They are best buddies!

Me and Laura Grace at Mikee's.

First day at the beach!

Laura Grace and Will right before we headed out to dinner one night.

Sisters! The older we get, the more we look alike.

Clay and I before heading out to the outlet stores in Foley.

Will loves his daddy!

Laura Grace and Layton outside of Lambert's. They loved the throwed rolls! Will had his first yeast roll at Lambert's and was very excited.

Will took most of his naps at the beach on someone's shoulder. He was a trooper and rarely got fussy.

Layton was really, really excited about the sand.

Laura Grace and Layton playing hard!

One of the days at the beach it was very windy. Will was not crazy about the wind so he snuggled up under a towel and fell asleep.

I blame this on Clay.

She was way too comfortable.

My sweet family. We had the best time playing in the sand and dipping our toes in the ocean. The water was too rough for anyone to get in but we still enjoyed it.

Cousins...

SMORES!!! It is a beach tradition. Laura Grace looks like a chocolate vampire.

Adeline really enjoyed her smores!

Mmmmmm....chocolate....

My sweet boy who was literally, by the end of his dessert, sweet. He had marshmallow and chocolate all over his face and hair.

Me and Clay after I liberally covered the kids in sunscreen and forgot about myself. Oops and ouch.

Two nights in a row we put the kids to bed early and got fresh shrimp and crawfish from a local seafood market. The adults had a great time visiting, eating, and playing board games. Pictionary got a little heated. That is all I am allowed to say about it.

Aunt Cindy and Clay on one of our seafood nights.

Amy and Justin-I think they are the cutest couple. Okay, I will say more about Pictionary. Don't play with these two. Ever. They will not only win, but they will trample you.

We flew kites one morning...Laura Grace and the men were very into it. Coen and Layton just wanted to go swimming.

Best Buddies. Laura Grace posed Coen and Layton for this picture and snapped it. She was very proud!

Will and my Aunt Cindy. Cindy was trying to make him laugh and forget that I was in the room so she could cuddle with him. Will was not having it.

Amy and Will.

Clay and Layton playing mini golf. Clay, my uncle Steve, and my brother in law, Justin, took Laura Grace, Coen, and Layton to play mini golf one afternoon. Clay was a little frustrated that his score was not any better than it is on the golf course. I was amused that the men cared enough to keep score!

Laura Grace, playing mini golf. She was VERY into it.

Layton was really excited about his golf club.

Laura Grace, exhibiting her know it all face. She actually did beat everyone at mini golf. It was her first time.

We are a serious ice cream family.

Ice cream at Scoop's. Or, in Laura Grace's case, snow cones.

Layton in the sand. Obviously. He had a fabulous time digging holes and making sand castles. He was not so thrilled about the mandatory bath each night. He seemed to think that sand should stay imbedded in his scalp.

Eating at Lulu's...

Will at Lulu's...they had a man singing Jimmy Buffet type music. We were sitting right in front of the stage. It was a little too loud for my tastes but Will loved it!

Layton and Coen outside the Foley Train Museum. They were more than a little disappointed that the train did not actually move anymore. I was more than a little freaked out when I looked in the window and saw a mannequin staring right back at me. I was NOT prepared for that!

Clay, Will and myself at Lulu's. Will was really wanting my sweet tea.

Me and the "big kids" at Lulu's. They had a great time eating fried green tomatoes and listening to the music.

My sister and I really, really wanted these hats. I mean...who wouldn't!? Alas, we did not have the seventy dollars these hats needed. Clay was more than a little relieved.

son

Bloggy Award!

2010-05-10T05:50:00.000-07:00

T.J. gave me this award last month and I am just now getting to it because to be honest breathing seems to be taking too much time lately. I have many things to blog about-like Layton's first tball game for starters. I do have to say this even before I get to blog about it...there is nothing funnier than watching three and four year old little boys play tball. Well, except watching their daddies on the field trying to teach them how to play tball...HILARIOUS.

Anyway.

My award.

T.J. has a beautiful blog that is made even more gorgeous by her photography skills. I want her camera and I want her skills. She is also a sweet person who always leaves me the most encouraging comments.

The award requires you to list 10 things that make you happy...

1) The grin on Layton's face when he hits the ball and runs to first base.

2) Laura Grace cuddling with me as we watch Little Women.

3) Reading a really good book with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

4) Staying home on a dreary, rainy day and turning on all of the lamps in the house.

5) The smell of Tide, fabric softener, lemon Pledge, and strangely enough, Windex.

6) Laughing with my husband.

7) A really good "chick flick". There is nothing better than Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Sense and Sensibility, Mansfield Park, ect...

8) Talking with a close friend.

9) Running further than I did the day before.

10) Sleep. Pure, uninterrupted sleep. I have not had that in a loooong time but it will come. Someday.

I am tagging everyone that reads my blog! Let me know if you decide to do it!

Seven Months Old

2010-05-10T04:54:00.000-07:00

I am seven months old now!

This month I started eating some table food. I love rolls, bread, graham crackers, rice rusks, creamed potatoes, Gerber puffs, macaroni and cheese, biscuits, spaghetti, french fries... I am a really healthy eater. I only like vegetables mixed with some oatmeal and it has to be carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, or corn-green veggies are gross. I love any kind of fruit! I have learned how to pick up food and put it in my mouth. I am also drinking out of a sippy cup or bottle now. Mommy gets very confused because I will not take a bottle or sippy cup from her. I also don't want to nurse during the day so we get up a lot at night. She says she is very tired.

I am rolling around and scooting but am not crawling yet. I love to play with my toys and manage to scatter them all over the floor. Everything goes in my mouth so my family has to be very careful and watch me all the time. I refuse to sit in my swing and I only like my saucer for a few minutes so it can be hard for Mommy to get anything done. My big brother plays with me a lot and I really love him. We hug and kiss all over each other.

I am making lots of sounds-"dadadadada", "nonononononono", and "mamamamamama" are my most frequent sounds. I also growl and squeal. Alot. I am very noisy. I have started reaching behind me as if I am looking for a blanket when I get sleepy. Mommy thinks I will probably develop an attachment for one of my loveys like my big sister has.

I am a very happy baby but I get upset if my Mommy leaves me. I am very attached to her and my eyes follow her everywhere. My daddy is the only person who can hold me if my Mommy is in the room. If other people hold me I cry and reach for her. It breaks my Mommy's heart so she spoils me and holds me all the time. I am rotten.

No teeth yet. The whole family is ready for me to just grow some already because my teething is getting a little ridiculous. The chewing and drooling and crying has been going on for weeks. Some days are rough-other days I just chew on washcloths and it doesn't bother me.

My schedule is:

6:00 a.m.- I wake up and nurse

7:00/7:30 a.m.- I eat oatmeal and fruit.

10:00 a.m.- I nurse for a few minutes and take a nap.

11:00 a.m.- I eat a jar of vegetables and a jar of meat. Mommy pinches of pieces of whole wheat bread and while I eat that she is able to sneak in bites of vegetables.

1:00 p.m.- I nurse for a few minutes and take a nap.

4:30 p.m.- I eat a graham cracker or some puffs while Mommy cooks dinner.

5:30/6:00 p.m.- I eat oatmeal mixed with vegetables while my family eats dinner. I also eat a few bites of whatever they are eating.

7:00 p.m.- I drink an 6 oz. bottle with my daddy and go to bed.

10:00/11:00 p.m.- I nurse and go back to sleep.

I get up several times during the night and nurse.

Update

2010-04-24T12:01:00.000-07:00

I don't know why I feel the need to tell everyone I have not fallen off the face of the planet. But I feel the need.

So.

I haven't fallen off the face of the planet.

I just have too many projects and children who need me, socks that need to be mated, towels that are multiplying in the dirty clothes hamper and a husband who would probably appreciate it if I talked to him at night instead of blogging. That means blogging isn't getting done right now. But that's ok.

I miss bloggy land and will be back soon!

Girl Scout Banquet

2010-04-13T18:20:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, Laura Grace and Clay attended the Daddy Daughter Girl Scout Banquet. It is Laura Grace's first year in Daisy's and she was so excited! I one of the troop leaders but this year one of the mothers actually organized the event for us. We were so grateful! With Will being in the hospital I was overwhelmed with the amount of work and energy it would take. The girls had so much fun and I think the dads did as well.

The banquet was a decade theme night-each troop dressed up in costumes that represent different decades and then performed a dance or song from that decade. Our troop was the Roaring Twenties. We had flapper costumes made, had a dance teacher teach them the Charleston, and then taught them some facts about the twenties. It was so much fun!

The tables...each girl and her daddy had a name card. We sprinkled silent movie and casino themed confetti on the tables as well as feathers. The centerpiece was long white gloves and a feather boa. We gave them red hots and chocolate kisses in champagne glasses to snack on during the program. It was all "kid friendly" but still fancy.

Laura Grace and her daddy.

Laura Grace the flapper... she was about to go on stage and perform!

My Daisy troop! They are all in first grade at the same elementary school and most of them go to my church as well. So far they are all a close knit group of girls that love each other. I am hoping that bond continues to strengthen. Laura Grace is the short one on the end :)

Laura Grace and her daddy.

Play Time

2010-04-12T11:45:00.000-07:00

Week In Review 10

2010-04-10T10:44:00.001-07:00

Monday- Layton, Will and I went to Tupelo for groceries and a new car seat. Will has outgrown the infant carrier, so he needed a "big boy" car seat. We spent all morning looking for one and getting groceries at Kroger. Will sat in the front of the cart for the first time :) He did really well! I had one of those covers for him and it has toys attached so he stayed entertained in Walmart. Kroger was another story, he cried so I held him on my hip while pushing the buggy. We got home just in time to pick up Laura Grace from school, put away the groceries, and take Laura Grace to dance. I came back home, cooked red beans and rice, cornbread, and green beans for dinner. My mother in law picked her up from dance for me so I could cook. Clay had to be at the ball field for the tball draft (he will be coaching Layton's team this summer) so he got home later than usual. Me and the kids ate dinner, worked on homework, got baths, and then I put them all in bed. When Clay got home he helped me get lunches together and the house picked up. I watched television for a little bit and then went to bed.

Tuesday- Laura Grace went to school, Layton and Will went with me to Mother's Day Out. I worked until two and then Layton went to the pediatrician for his shots and well check up. We had Girl Scouts that afternoon as well. A dance teacher came and taught the Charleston to the girls for the upcoming Decades Daddy Daughter Banquet. My Daisy troop is representing the Roaring Twenties and will be flappers. They have cute little flapper dresses to wear and will perform at the banquet. Will had a great time bouncing to the music-on my hip of course. After Girl Scouts we went home. Clay had already gotten home and was working on dinner for me. We had pork chops, vegetables, and rice. After dinner I helped Laura Grace with homework and then ran to the nursing home for Bingo Night. Junior Auxiliary does a Bingo Night with the residents in a local nursing home and I am on the committee. I had a great time with some of the ladies there. They were so thankful to have a fun activity and the chance to talk to someone. After Bingo I ran a few errands and came home. I watched Confessions of a Shopaholic with Clay and then went to bed.

Wednesday- After Laura Grace went to school, I had a friend over to visit. Her little boy is one of Layton's best friends and she has a new baby that is a few months younger than Will. We visited for several hours while the boys played outside. After they left I cleaned house and put my boys down for a nap. We picked up Laura Grace that afternoon and took Will to the pediatrician for his shots and well check up. We got back home around dinner time and I made a BBQ chicken pizza. We decided to stay home from church because I had a sinus infection, Layton was running fever from his shots the day before, and Will was cranky. It was a good night for everyone to go to bed early!

Thursday- It was crazy. I worked and all the babies cried most of the day. Everyone is suffering from allergies! During lunch I ran to Arby's to pick something up and witnessed the FBI make a huge drug arrest. It was both fascinating and disturbing. Then I got home and the afternoon went downhill. Cranky kids and a sick mommy are not a good combination. I had promised to take them to the library so we went. Big mistake. Layton ran around everywhere, Will cried, and Laura Grace checked out nearly fifteen books. After the library we had another Girl Scouts meeting to finalize their costumes. Thankfully, Clay was able to meet me and pick up the boys. When I got home from the meeting, Clay had already cooked fried okra, butter beans, mashed potatoes, and pork chops. It made my day! After dinner I fell asleep on the couch while Clay did homework with Laura Grace and put the kids in bed.

Friday- I spent the early part of the morning cleaning house. While I cleaned, Layton played and Will napped. After his nap we went to a friend's house for coffee and prayer. Both of us are struggling with allergies, feeling overwhelmed, and overall parenting. We had a wonderful time of prayer. I left feeling encouraged and uplifted! I had a doctor's appointment around lunchtime so I dropped Layton and Will off at my mother in law's office and went to the doctor. After my appointment I picked up the boys. Layton asked for a sweet tea so we went through Sonic before getting in carpool line. I picked up Laura Grace from school, got everyone home, and put Layton and Will down for a nap. Laura Grace watched a movie and I fell asleep on the couch. When the boys woke up I cleaned house while we waited for Clay to come home. When Clay got home we went out to eat with my in laws. After dinner we put the kids in bed, I took a hot bath, and then fell asleep watching "Food Revolution" with Clay.

Saturday- I spent the morning decorating tables for the Decades Banquet. When I was finished, I went to several stores looking for camp chairs and a beach umbrella. I couldn't find anything I liked, but I did find some pretty ferns and flowers for the front of my house. I got home, ate lunch, put the kids down for a nap and am now blogging :) This afternoon I am going to work in the yard, clean my house, and then get Clay and Laura Grace ready for the banquet tonight. After the banquet we have a Sunday School BBQ. My in laws are going to babysit for us, so I am excited!

Drama King

2010-04-10T10:31:00.000-07:00

Layton got his shots last week. Actually, Layton and Will did. Will cried for a few minutes, found the nurse's stethescope and began chewing on it. He was over it.

Layton?

He cried and cried and cried. He then walked to the front desk, dragging one of his legs behind him. He kept whimpering something and when questioned said, "I am going to need some sweet tea!".

Even after the sweet tea he would sigh loudly and sadly-for several hours. The next day he would run and play until he thought about the shots. Then, and only then, he would begin dragging his leg behind him. It was very pitiful.

Ahem.

Just when he had gotten over his feelings of betrayal, he got a spanking. As in one light swat on his jean clad rear end. Oh, the horror. He pouted for the rest of the afternoon about it. Layton is like that about spankings, he takes them VERY personally. Finally, his resentment came to a boil during dinner with my inlaws. My father in law asked him how his day had been and Layton looked at me accusingly. "SHE BEAT ME!" he said dramatically. He even pointed his finger at me.

Oh, the drama.

Easter 2010

2010-04-07T08:42:00.000-07:00

Before church...

It was all very exciting.

Will's first Easter basket. Laura Grace was a little disturbed that he didn't get any chocolate. He did get a float for the pool, a new toy, and the board book, Peedie.

Laura Grace and Layton got tons of chocolate. Along with pajamas, floats for the pool, and other misc. things for our upcoming beach trip.

They were very excited. Don't you love the bed head? Every morning she looks like that-I love it and look forward to kissing that messy head!

At our church Easter egg hunt

Six Months Old!!

2010-04-02T06:23:00.000-07:00

I am now six months old. Mommy and Daddy can't believe it. I have become so busy that I don't sit still for many pictures. I also like to grab for the camera when Mommy has it!

I am sitting up all by myself now. I started doing this the week before I turned six months. I am very proud of myself. I am also trying to crawl, I pull myself around with my arms and roll all over the floor. I am so fast that Mommy can't leave me for a second.

I really love my feet. They are my best friends. I talk to them and eat them and blow raspberries on them.

I am sitting in my high chair like a big boy. Mommy cushions the back of it with a blanket because I get excited and bang my head on the wood.

Did I mention I love my feet? It is an obession. Shoes? Not so much.

I have grown quite a bit-Mommy thinks that it is because I am nursing all the time. I am 21 lbs and 26.5 inches. I am wearing 9 month clothes and size 2 shoes. I nurse every hour to two hours and eat a big bowl of cereal every morning and night. I am eating baby food a little better now-my favorites are chicken, turkey, applesauce, sweet peas, and sweet potatoes. Bananas are okay but don't feed me squash!

I am sleeping a little better. I go to bed around 7, wake up around 12 to nurse, go back to sleep and wake up around 3 to nurse again. I am up for the morning around 6 or 7 and I nurse again. Then I eat cereal and play. I nurse throughout the morning-it just depends on how hungry I am. I take a nap around 10 and then wake up around 11 wanting my lunch. I eat baby food, nurse, and then play some more. I nurse and take another nap around 1 or 2 and then I play some more. I get hungry for dinner around 5 and then Mommy gives me a bath. I usually have to take a short nap after my bath because it wears me out. I love to splash! After my cat nap, I play with my daddy and then nurse around 7 and go to bed for the night. I am a very happy, easy baby.

Life

2010-03-31T16:22:00.000-07:00

Life is fragile.

Fleeting.

It is like sand running through our fingers. You blink-and it is gone.

I remember having the immortality complex as a teenager. Life stretched before me and it seemed endless and full of possibilities. Then, I married and had children. Life became marked by endless diaper changes and milestones. Birthdays come faster and faster and sometimes it takes my breath away. I want to grab my child who is a year older and keep them close because I know that before I can comprehend what has happened-they will be grown. This is a fact that is every mother's bittersweet reality. It is one that we both celebrate and sigh over.

But I don't often think about how truly fragile we are. How fragile my children are.

I have been confronted with it in the past. I have buried my grandparents whom I loved dearly, I have mourned the loss of two babies that I never got to hold, I have held the hot hands of a child burning with fever, picked up an unconscious child after she fell from a ladder, and I have held my tiny newborns in my arms and marveled at their perfection. It is something that I don't like to think about. I don't like to admit that I am not in control.

This weekend, as I held my sleeping baby on my chest, as I laid my hand on his back to feel the rise and fall of each breathe, I thought about it. A lot. I thought about how powerless I was. I thought about how powerless each nurse that came in and each doctor we spoke to was. I was numb. The realization that God could take my baby or heal my baby was awe inspiring and yet, so shattering that it left me numb. I thought about how helpless we are when we come into the world and how helpless we stay. We think as adolescents that we are invincible. We believe as parents that we will live to see our children parent. We accept as humans that life has an end. But I have never dwelled on the fact that every single breath could be our last. Our bodies depend on the grace of our God to live each day. Every single day is a gift. As we bumble about, living our lives and making mistake after mistake, we not only reveal our fragility but how deep our God's love is for us. That he would extend grace to us. To us-shallow and weak and hopeless without him.

We went home Monday. Will was declared over his illness (flu and pneumonia) and we drug ourselves home, both exhausted and elated that all was well. And then, I got a call asking me to go check on Clay's Mamaw. She is very elderly and needed some help. I went over there immediately and spent some time with her. As I sat there, watching her struggle for each breath, hearing her chest rattle, I was overcome once again. We are so fragile. Life is so precious. We are here but for an instant when it is all said and done. I can only hope that while I am here that I enjoy my family. That I enjoy the life God has given me. And, most importantly, that I make it worth something. God is allowing my fragile, imperfect self here for a reason. He is amazing.

Hospital

2010-03-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

I would appreciate everyone's prayers-Will has been in the hospital since Thursday night. He has been very sick. He is getting better but is still not well enough to come home. Thank you!

One of those nights

2010-03-22T07:27:00.000-07:00

Last night was one of those nights.

First, I made the mistake of watching a Lifetime movie. "Mom at Sixteen" to be exact. The end was supposed to be uplifting but it led me to sobbing while I rocked my baby to sleep. Clay just sat there with a pained expression, pinching the bridge of his nose like he does when he is really trying hard not to say anything.

"Are you mad at me?!" I sniffled.

His mouth twitched. "No. I am trying not to laugh at you."

He then laughed at me.

I can't watch Lifetime often because I almost always end up in some emotional upheaval.

To top the night off, I watched the House vote. Why I even bothered watching the national train wreck I don't know. Clay and I both went to bed feeling like sobbing. Clay of course didn't-he is too manly. I didn't sob either, I was breastfeeding Will and didn't want him to wake up. He did though. Several times. We were up most of the night breastfeeding. I am thinking if he would just eat some solids he would stay full longer. But, no-he finds my milk delicious and nothing else compares.

I was thinking that and then the song, "Nothing Compares To You," popped in my head. I danced to that once. In high school. It was a modern dance and suddenly I could even remember the choreography. That made me want to get up at 3 a.m. and dance. It then hit me that my body can't do that anymore and that led to a whole new onslaught of depression.

Yeah, it was one of those nights.

Loving On Willy T

2010-03-21T16:51:00.000-07:00

Willy T. has become his family nickname. The one that we will have to drop very soon because I DO NOT want him to be known as Willy T. That name sounds so...bubba-ish. It makes me think of mullets and shrimp farming...

Anyway.

My family is so in love with this baby.

His brother and sister bend over backwards to make him laugh. They spend their day loving on him, entertaining him, and talking about him.

We are so blessed.

Will also loves us. But, for the most part, he really loves his feet.

Week In Review #9 Spring Break Week!

2010-03-21T08:05:00.001-07:00

Monday- Laura Grace had a sleepover the night before with Emma and Laken. Everyone slept in until 7 and then I made chocolate chip muffins. The girls played in Laura Grace's room after breakfast. My friend, Rebecca, came over around 8:30 and had a cup of coffee with me. Her little boy, Paul Cooper, played with Layton. Rebecca went to the gym around 10 and I watched Paul Cooper for her. Emma and Laken's mothers picked them up around 10:30. We ate lunch and I got the floors vacummed, swept, and mopped while the boys played and Will napped. After Rebecca picked up Paul Cooper I took my 3 kids to the library. After the library we ran to the bank and Walmart. We got home and Laura Grace and Layton played outside while I finished the laundry. I made a sausage pizza when Clay got home and after dinner the kids went to bed early. Clay and I watched tv while I folded laundry.

Tuesday- It was a rainy, yuck day. The kids and I stayed in our pajamas most of the morning. I cleaned house while the kids played in their bedrooms. At noon, we went to Grandmother's house for lunch. She made country fried steak, creamed potatoes, vegetables, and banana pudding. It was delicious! After lunch, Clay went back to work and the kids and I went home for naps. All three children took a nap (which is SO rare) and I enjoyed the quiet by reading a book. Clay came home around 5 so I could get dressed for my girl's night out with my two best friends, Rebecca and Jenny. I ran to the store to pick up a last minute gift for Rebecca's birthday and then went to meet the girls. We ate at Fairpark Grill, in Tupelo, and had a wonderful time. When I got home the kids were in bed and Clay was asleep in his chair. We went to bed after I woke my sweet husband up.

Wednesday- Another rainy, yuck day. I was glad that I had gone out the night before because I needed that extra dose of patience all day. The kids were whiny, out of sorts, and bored. They played, cried, and argued pretty much all day. I cleaned house, broke up squabbles, and held a baby on my hip. It was a LONG day. When Clay got home we ate chicken, vegetables, and rolls. There was no church due to Spring Break so we put the kids to bed early, shared a bottle of wine, and watched a movie. It was a great end to a really trying day!

Thursday- Thursday was a beautiful, sunny day. The kids went outside as soon as they ate breakfast. I had them come in after the house was clean so we could all get showered and run errands. As I was pulling out of my driveway, Aunt Barbara called and invited us to lunch in Tupelo. We went to a children's boutique downtown, ran to the library and bank, and then went to Tupelo for lunch. We spent about two hours eating and talking at Atlanta Bread Company. Laura Grace ate her weight in potato soup, Layton had a turkey sandwich and tomato soup. The manager was so impressed with their manners that he gave them all sorts of free food. They loved it! Laura Grace told him that she was very impressed with the "welcoming bread smell and wonderful hospitality." After lunch, we went to Old Navy and T.J. Maxx. I invited Aunt Barbara over for dinner that night because her birthday was the next day. We went home and I cleaned house, baked a cake, and baked yeast rolls for dinner that night. I also made baked porkchops and threw together a salad. Clay got home and helped the kids tidy their rooms while I set the table-I even used our china and cloth napkins to make it more special. The kids love it when they get to use the "pretty dishes". Barbara came over and was so surprised-she had not been expecting a birthday party. Laura Grace gave her a photo album (that she was given not long ago and a card that she spent nearly two hours making). We had a great time visiting. Barbara left around 9 and we got the kids in bed.

Friday- It was another beautiful, sunny day. The children got up, bolted down breakfast, and went outside in their pajamas. I did laundry all morning-I am in the process of consigning clothes, putting away winter clothes, and getting out warm weather clothes. The kids ate a picnic lunch in their fort and then came in for a bath and a rest time in their rooms. That only lasted forty five minutes. They came out begging to go back outside so I let them. They played outside all afternoon. Clay came home around five and helped me put clothes in the attic. His parents came over around 7-they spent the week in D.C. came over with gifts for the kids. They stayed until almost 10. When they left we all went to bed.

Saturday- We all slept in until nearly 8. That is unheard of in my family, HA! The children are usually up well before 7. We ate breakfast and cleaned house. When the house was clean, we all got dressed and went to Tupelo. We made another T.J. Maxx run and then went to Kroger. Let me tell you, grocery shopping with 3 is an event. After shopping we went to Sonic for drinks and then came home. We put away the groceries while Layton napped, Laura Grace played, and Will jumped up and down in his Excersaucer. Clay's parents came over for hamburgers later on that evening. We ate, visited with his parents, and played with the kids. It was a fun, relaxing evening.

Sunday- This morning Laura Grace woke up with a headache and not feeling well. I stayed home with her and Will while Clay and Layton went to church. After church we are eating meatloaf and veggies at my inlaws. We are going to spend the afternoon at their house, go to church tonight, and then get ready for school next week. BOO!!

Some Friday Happies

2010-03-19T08:13:00.001-07:00

First of all, it is Friday. That makes me nearly giddy.

Second, IT IS BEAUTIFUL OUTSIDE!!!!! It is currently in the 60's, the sky is blue, the breeze is light, and my children are OUTSIDE!

Third, did I mention my children are outside?

Fourth, I was praying this morning and Layton came and crawled into my lap. He snuggled close and said he wanted to pray with me. Laura Grace walked by, saw us praying, and joined in as well. It was precious. Laura Grace thanked God for her family, Layton thanked God for "this wonderful day, God, Jesus, and hugs and kisses." I have to admit, this mommy teared up!

Fifth, Will is napping peacefully.

Sixth, my house is clean.

Seventh, the laundry is almost finished.

Eight, I have some new library books :)

HAVE A FABULOUS FRIDAY!!

Honest Scrap Award

2010-03-18T06:56:00.000-07:00

Demetria gave me this award! She is such a sweet woman-I love her sense of humor and crazy stories about her boys. I first met Demetria when I taught her oldest in Mother's Morning Out. I loved her instantly because she was one of the few parents who actually stopped to talk and smile! She is always warm and just one of those people who are so easy to love. If you have never read her blog-go and do it now!

Rules for the award:

1. Must thank the person who gave you the award and list their blog and link it.

2. Share "10 Honest things" about yourself.

3. Present this award to others whose blogs you find brilliant in content and/or design, or those who have encouraged you.

4. Tell those people they've been awarded HONEST SCRAP and inform them of these guidelines in receiving the award

TEN HONEST THINGS ABOUT ME

1. I am having some difficulties with online shopping. I need new clothes for summer but...um...keep ordering them online, finding something I like better, returning what I ordered and buying what I liked better only to then find something even better... it is a vicious cycle and I need help.

2. I hate that my hair looks better short. I have always wanted long, beautiful hair but genetics are apparently against me. On the other hand, my sisters all have long, thick, GORGEOUS hair. It isn't fair.

3. I love to travel. What is funny is that I love driving places-I hate flying, trains, buses, ect... I am not scared of flying at all, I just hate the closeness to strangers and the overall experience. I really enjoy driving across the country and seeing new towns.

4. I am no longer an animal person. Except for horses. Y'all know all about my unrequited love for horses. I want fifty million and a barn. But all other animals-such as fish, birds, rodents, dogs, and cats? Over them. Completely. As in we will never have another pet if I can help it.

5. I don't like to eat fish. It grosses me out. It is a texture thing. I also hate squash, okra, coleslaw, any kind of salad with mayo in it (yes, including potato salad), fried green tomatoes, sweet tea, sweet potatoes, sweet potato casserole, deviled eggs, gelatin salads and ham. But yet, I am still very southern.

6. I am upset at Focus On The Family right now. I am not impressed with Jim Daly and think that he is dangerously lukewarm on many issues. Disappointing.

7. I am struggling when it comes to running/exercising. I haven't been once this week because I got discouraged last week. Before I got pregnant I could run several miles. Now I can barely run one and want to pass out afterwards. I know it is going to take time to build up my endurance but I am impatient.

8. I am participating in the Grocery Game and have become more than a little obsessed. I think I am about to stop paying for it and do it on my own...but that worries me because I don't want to spend a ton of time on it. I also worry that I am now spending a ton of money on things that I ordinarily wouldn't buy. I also worry that we are not eating as healthy as we should. See where this leads me? I get obsessive.

9. I got burned in the tanning bed yesterday. It isn't pretty. I do realize that I should stop going to the tanning bed because the wedding is over but I love laying in that warm, coffin like thing for 20 minutes. It is silent, warm, and I always take a cat nap. Sleep is precious right now-Will is nursing every two hours around the clock and I am exhausted.

10. My house is a wreck. And I don't care. This week is Spring Break and it has been cold and nasty outside so the kids have stayed indoors-and slowly dismantled the entire house. But, like I said, I don't care. I can't find the energy to do anything about it!

I know these ten things are entirely pointless and all rather shallow!

Okay, I am awarding...

1) T.J.

2) Brittany Ann

3)Sarah

Anna Mae

2010-03-17T13:37:00.000-07:00

The Library

2010-03-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

Monday, the first day of our Spring Break, the sun was peeking out from the clouds. This rare glimpse of light was enough to motivate me to take my children to the library. All three of them. The morning after a sleepover.

Not my most brilliant decision.

I dressed all three kids (it should be an Olympic event) and loaded them in the car (again, bobsledding has nothing on hefting a chunky infant into the middle seat while ensuring that your four year old does not crawl under the vehicle). And so, we were off.

First, I had to face the music. I was undoubtedly on the America's Most Wanted list due to my rather large library fine. We are talking three digits here. I gave myself a pep talk all the way to the library. I told myself all sorts of things...

"They will be happy to get money because more money means more books."

"They will understand, they have all had children."

"What is the worse they can do? Glare? Revoke your library priviliges and ban you from the premises making your children cry?"

What made it worse is that the librarian is Clay's, grandmother's, Sunday School teacher. That is just a little too intimate to me when I am finally coming to pay the fine they keep mailing me letters about.

But I did it. I also brought a bag full of like new hardcover books to donate and hopefully soften them up. I was also hoping that they would barely notice me. That I would be this random woman coming to pay her fine and they would not connect who I am related to in this town where everyone is related in some way...

No such luck. Because, you see, Layton had to go potty. Actually, he had to go poop. As soon as we walk in the doors he runs across the library, yelling, "I HAVE TO GO POOP!".

Mortifying.

I put Laura Grace in the children's area and ignored the fascinated stares, glares, and looks of pity as I did the motherly walk of shame across the library. I walk into the bathroom to discover that Layton has already found himself a stall and is...um...hard at work.

I ask him if he needs help and he says, "Nope! It is coming out just fine! Whew, it stinks, huh! I have lots of poop lined up in here!" I would continue with the conversation but it is rather graphic and nauseating. Just ask the pregnant woman who came out of the other stall holding her stomach in apparent disgust and horror.

We finally leave the bathroom after battling over wiping, flushing, and hygiene. I had to insist that he wash his hands all the while he was telling me they were "not stinky". People, boys are gross. They just are.

We make our way back to the children's area where Laura Grace has fifty books stacked up at the librarian's desk. The librarian looks at me and asks me if I was aware I had a fine. I turned red, stuttered an apology like a child, and paid it. The librarian cheerfully assured me that everyone she knows has large fines and that the library loves the money! She thanked me for my generous book donation, tells me the latest grandmother gossip, and cheerfully checks out all fifty books Laura Grace has chosen. I was watching her put the books in the bag in a numb state of three digit fine shock. I was rather appreciative that she was so nice about it, but it was still humiliating!

Finally, an hour later, we left. We had knocked over several displays, Will soaked a book with drool, Layton and Laura Grace has more books than I will ever be able to keep up with, and I needed a nap.

Girl's Night Out

2010-03-17T06:57:00.000-07:00

Last night was my one of my best friends, Rebecca's, birthday. My other close friend, Jenny, and I took her out to dinner at the Fairpark Grill. It is ridiculous how much fun we had. You would have thought we were in high school. We laughed so loud at one point that the whole restaurant probably thought we were drinking. I am so blessed to have these women in my life!

Me and Rebecca...we had to fight for composure long enough to get a decent picture.
THIS is what all the rest of them looked like. We giggled like little girls the entire dinner.

Jenny, Rebecca, and myself...in the bathroom. Of all places.

Me and Rebecca before we left her house. Her husband took the picture, all the while thinking we were ridiculous. Because, you know, men don't take pictures of each other.

Me and Jenny. This is the fiftieth attempt. The people around our table stared at us the entire time and made it very obvious they thought we had lost our minds!

Week In Review #8

2010-03-16T07:50:00.000-07:00

Monday- My house was a wreck from the wedding weekend so I spent the morning cleaning house and doing laundry. That afternoon I picked up Laura Grace from school and drove her to dance. The boys and I ran errands until it was time to go pick up Laura Grace. We all went back home, the kids ate cereal for dinner, and then I gave them a bath. Clay got home around 7 and I had to go grocery shopping in Tupelo so I left when he got home. I shopped until 9 and on my way home got a call from my inlaws asking me to come over and get some of the leftovers from the reception. They gave me two huge Ziploc bags full of chicken, tons of chocolate covered strawberries, and crawfish dip with toast rounds. I got home around 10 and Clay and I snacked on the reception food for dinner.

Tuesday- Will had been really fussy the day before and did not sleep well Monday night. He woke up Tuesday running fever and coughing. Clay's Aunt Barbara was in town and volunteered to keep Layton for the day. I dropped off Layton and took Will to the pediatrician. They told me he had a double ear infection. We went to the pharmacy and then ran several errands. I felt bad that I was out in the cold weather with a sick baby, but didn't have a choice. I went home and did laundry while Will finally napped. After Will's nap we picked up Laura Grace from school and went to pick up Layton. We ended up staying the rest of the afternoon and visiting with Barbara and Clay's Mamaw. Clay met us around dinner time and we all went home. The kids ate chicken from the reception for dinner, and after they were in bed, Clay and I ate soup. We watched television until bed.

Wednesday- Laura Grace went to school, Layton helped me clean the house, and then we went back over to Clay's Mamaw's house. We played all morning, ate lunch, and then Barbara rocked Will while I napped with Layton. It was a wonderfully lazy day! I left the boys with Barbara and picked up Laura Grace from school. We went back to Mamaw's house and Barbara asked if Laura Grace could stay until church that night. I agreed and left with the boys. Layton watched movies all afternoon while I caught up on housework. Clay brought home Laura Grace around dinner time. We ate Beef Stroganoff, yeast rolls, and green beans for dinner and then Clay and the kids went to church. I cleaned the kitchen, got lunches ready for the next day, and fell asleep on the couch. I woke up when the kids came running in. We got them in bed and I read a book until midnight.

Thursday- Laura Grace went to school, the boys and I went to Mother's Morning Out. I worked until 2 and then went home. Laura Grace went to the afterschool program at church so I did not have to worry about picking her up. I cleaned house while Layton and Will entertained each other on the floor. Laura Grace and Clay got home around dinner time. The kids ate leftovers and went to bed early because they were all tired and whiny. Clay and I ate a pizza and watched Housewives of NYC.

Friday- Laura Grace woke up not feeling well so I let her stay home from school. We had a lazy morning and then went to Clay's, Grandmother's house for lunch. She cooked fried chicken, greens, turnips, yeast rolls, deviled eggs, ham, cheese potatoes, peas, green beans, and peach cobbler. It was amazing. We stuffed ourselves and had a great time visiting with her. We went home around 2 and the kids took naps while I cleaned house. Clay came home earlier than usual that afternoon. I went to visit a friend who just had a baby, went to the movie store and got a movie for me and Clay to watch, ran to Walgreens, and came back home. The kids played with Clay while I cleaned up after dinner. After the kids went to bed, Clay and I watched "Couples Retreat".

Saturday- We got up early, ate breakfast, got dressed, and then loaded in the car for a trip to Jackson. We live 3 hours from Jackson so it is doable to make a day trip out of it. We got there around lunchtime, ate with my mom and sister and then visited while the kids ran around and played. Around dinner time we left and made a quick Khols run. Laura Grace needed some white leggings and Khols was having a sale. After Khols we ate at Backyard Burger, watched the kid's play in the play area (well..Laura Grace played. Layton hates the animal noises) and then left for the drive back home. The kids slept the entire way back so it was an easy trip. We got home a little before 11 that night.

Sunday- I had to teach Sunday School that morning so I got up earlier than usual. We all ate breakfast, got dressed for church, and then left. The time change nearly killed me. I had a huge headache and was exhausted because Will did not sleep well the night before. After Sunday School I brought the kids home and Clay stayed for church because he is the sound and light person. I made BBQ chicken and veggies for lunch. After lunch everyone took naps. I had a preschool committee meeting at 4, so I went to that while Clay watched the kids. I got home just in time for Clay to make it to the church service. Laura Grace had her first sleepover that night. Two of her bestfriends, Emma and Laken, came over around 7 and spent the night. I baked sugar cookies and they had a tea party in Laura Grace's room. The girls went to bed around 11 and surprisingly stayed in there!

Books You Must Read

2010-03-15T17:51:00.000-07:00

I post this every few months and here I am again! What is everyone reading and what would you recommend?

I just finished reading a series by Liz Curtis Higgs that is retelling of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel's story. It was FASCINATING. The characters were not the familiar biblical ones but the story follows the same basic plot-there are a few twists to make it more applicable to the time period. As someone who personally dislikes the whole Leah/Rachel controversy and to be honest have always thought that Jacob behaved like a giant weenie, it surprised me that I really enjoyed these books. It made me take a step back and look at Jacob in a different light. Before I get any criticisms on the fact that I have issues with Jacob, just don't go there :)

Anyway, I love how flawed the characters are. That sounds odd but they are so incredibly flawed and so in need of God's grace and it is poured out on them time and time again. The books made me cry and THAT is always a sign of a good book! So...read them. And tell me what you think!

The First Book:

Second:

Third:

Fourth:

Don't miss this one!! It has not been released yet, but is the retelling of the book of Ruth...

Another Will Video

2010-03-15T15:44:00.000-07:00

This is the one I intended to post!

Will's Video Debut

2010-03-15T15:16:00.000-07:00

7 Things About Me

2010-03-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

Ashley tagged her readers to do this and I think they are fun, so here goes! My readers pretty much know everything about me, but there are some newbies that may be surprised by my list.

1) I can't sleep in shorts or tank tops. I actually stole this from Ashley, but it is true about me. Oh, and lingerie. It seriously gives me the heebie jeebies to feel the sheets on my bare legs. I am weird like that. I love huge soft t shirts and too big pajama pants. Basically, I dress like a slob to sleep! However, I CAN NOT wear socks to sleep. That also icks me out.

2) I prefer my meat very well done. Like...extremely done. I cook Clay's meat and then stick mine in the oven or microwave longer. I actually prefer it on the dry side. Moist/juicy chicken, turkey, or pork makes me physically ill. I am weird.

3) I want another child. Not anytime soon, but I have decided that I do not feel a peace about our family being complete. Clay just rolls his eyes when I say this. However, Clay and I come from different perspectives. I love big families and he does not. It was a stretch for him to have three children! It is something that we are praying about and I am content to rest in the fact that we have a sweet baby to love on and have plenty of time to add more. When Will turns 2, I may be singing a very different tune!

4) I love, love, love to read. I read everything-including children's books and juvenile fiction. I struggle with finding "clean" books that are also interesting/entertaining. So many promising authors ruin their books with explicit sex or language. I can't read those so it can be difficult to find good reading material.

5) I have this thing with flip flops. I own way to many pairs. And then, last summer, I discovered that you can buy matching Mother/Daughter flip flops. Laura Grace was equally thrilled and the sickness took on a whole new dimension. Clay has limited me to three new pairs this summer. Only. Three.

6) I tend to be sarcastic. Not cruelly sarcastic-I don't make fun of others or use sarcasm against anyone. I am self-deprecatingly sarcastic. People don't get this and sometimes email me strange questions or leave me comments thinking that I am depressed, angry, or arrogant. I then have to read back over what I wrote and realize that they didn't get I was joking!

7) I worry a lot about what others think. This is something that I am struggling with when it comes to homeschooling. I am trying to grow a thicker skin but I have ALWAYS been sensitive. I tend to play conversations back in my head and obsess over them because what if I said something stupid?! Clay says that I over analyze everything to begin with.

So...that is me! I am doing my feature later this week-the blog I am featuring belongs to a very busy woman so we are pushing it back until she is ready :) I am now realizing that my weekly review post has not been completed as well...

Why I Am Homeschooling

2010-03-12T13:40:00.000-08:00

I wrote about it here.

Friday Love

2010-03-12T12:30:00.001-08:00

You can tell who actually enjoys pictures in this family. HA!

But, one thing is for sure, my children do enjoy each other.

Have a great weekend everyone!!

A Day In The Life Of Mommy Brain

2010-03-12T05:21:00.000-08:00

I got this idea from Kelly's Korner. It was one of her Show Us Your Life posts. I meant to do it then, but got busy and didn't have time.

As I am trying to write this morning I have been interrupted three times in the last five minutes by wails. Layton hurt his head, Layton's throat hurts, and Laura Grace's clothes feel funny.

Anyway.

A typical day for me changes because the kids have different activities, I work on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and then church. What does NOT change is that Will nurses every two hours including during thi night, I change about 15 diapers a day, and I always have a child following me around. Talking. I love every minute of it but there are times I go to bed "talked out" and just want silence!

This is what Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays look like:

6 a.m.- Will wakes up and nurses. Most of the time he goes back to sleep and I SHOULD get up so I can go running or do Pilates. Sadly, this only happens about twice a week. I usually just move to the couch and drink coffee while I stare blearily at Fox News. Laura Grace and Layton have strange internal timers that dictate they must get up around this time. It is a family rule that they can't leave their bedrooms until I come and get them. They are allowed to come and give me a kiss, but then they go back to bed and read books while I finish my coffee.

6:30 a.m.- I release the children who by this point are moaning that they are starving. I fix their breakfast, lay out their clothes for the day, take a shower, and get myself dressed. Will wakes up about this time and plays in his bouncy seat.

7:00 a.m.- I get Clay's lunch and Laura Grace's lunch together, check Laura Grace's back pack and folder to make sure her homework is in the right place, and then fix Laura Grace's hair. I help gather coats and other misc. items and then see them out the door for school and work.

7:30 a.m.- Laura Grace and Clay leave. Most of the time he is able to take her to school. I clean up the kitchen and start laundry while Will plays in his saucer and Layton watches cartoons. This is also the time that I try to check blogs and/or begin one. It often takes me several hours to actually finish it because of interruptions.

8:00 a.m.- Will nurses and takes his morning nap.

8:30 a.m.- I turn off the television and Layton drags out his toys to play. I move from room to room as I straighten, make beds, ect... Layton usually follows me around, playing with his toys. He likes to be in the same room that I am in. I usually read several books to Layton around this time.

9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.- Will wakes up and eats a jar of baby food. On Mondays, I have a Bible Study that I attend. Wednesdays, I run errands while Layton plays with his great grandmother. Fridays, both boys and I usually run errands or get together with a friend for a playdate. Fridays are my only flexible day-some days we stay in pajamas until noon but most of the time we have something that needs to be done outside the house.

11:30 a.m.- Lunch time. Layton and I eat lunch while Will nurses. Layton watches Sesame Street while I clean up from lunch and get Will down for another nap. I check blogs again and usually am able to finish whatever I am writing.

12:30 p.m.-Layton has his "quiet time". He no longer takes a nap, but he must play in his room quietly. This is my time to drink a cup of hot tea, fold laundry while I watch HGTV, play games on Facebook, have a quiet time, ect...

1:00 p.m.- Will, like clockwork, wakes up. He nurses and plays on the floor while I work on laundry. He is usually very happy after his nap and is content to chew on his toys and babble to himself.

2:00 p.m.- Layton's quiet time is over. He comes out of his room, eats a snack (usually a bowl of "cereals") and plays with Will on the floor.

2:30 p.m.- We pick up Laura Grace from school. Will is usually fussy at this point because he is wanting to nurse and take another nap. This makes carpool not fun at all.

3:00 p.m.- On Monday afternoons, Laura Grace has two hours of ballet. I drive her to ballet after carpool and she eats her snack in the car. On Wednesdays and Fridays she comes home. When we get home, I fix Laura Grace a snack, nurse Will, put Will down for another nap, put Layton in the back yard or get him working on an art project, and then help Laura Grace with her homework. She is not allowed to play or watch cartoons unless her homework is completed. This works well for us because she gets it done quickly and has the rest of the day free. Surprisingly, she has about four worksheets every afternoon as well as something to read. I thought this was a bit much for a six year old, but she does it without complaining.

4:00 p.m.- By this time of day, Laura Grace is usually finished with homework. While Will is still napping I start dinner. Laura Grace and Layton play together outside or in Layton's room. I finish laundry, clean up the house, and answer the phone. For some reason this is the time of day that the phone rings non stop!

5:00 p.m.- Will wakes up and nurses. If it is a Monday, we pick up Laura Grace from dance. On a Wednesday we eat dinner at this time because of church. Fridays, the kids continue playing because we do not have to eat an early dinner.

6:00 pm.- On Mondays and Fridays we eat dinner, Wednesdays we go to church. After dinner I clean the kitchen, make lunches for the next day, get clothes ready for the next day, and the children all get a bath. We usually read books, watch Wheel of Fortune (Layton and Laura Grace LOVE this show), and have some family time.

6:30 p.m.- Will goes to bed. He nurses and I change him into his pajamas. He seems to have learned that this means bedtime and gets excited. I lay him in the crib, pray, and then he goes to sleep. Laura Grace and Layton play quietly in their rooms.

7:00 p.m.- Bedtime for Laura Grace and Layton. Both are exhausted by this time and brush their teeth without much complaining. We pray, snuggle for a minute, and then they get tucked in.

7-11 p.m.- On Mondays and Tuesdays, I run errands. Tuesdays is my big grocery shopping night in Tupelo. I usually get home around 9 and then stay up several hours so I can spend some time with Clay. Wednesday nights we just veg on the couch. Thursday nights I have meetings. Friday nights are "date night"-we rent a movie and eat dinner or dessert together.

Tuesdays and Thursdays are totally different.

We have the same morning routine, but at 7:30 I take Laura Grace to school and then go to work. I work from 8 until 2 in the baby room at Mother's Morning Out. Layton goes to preschool at the same church. Will gets to be with me in the baby room. After work I go home with the boys. Clay does not commute to Memphis on Tuesdays and picks up Laura Grace from me on Tuesday afternoon. On Thursdays, Laura Grace goes to our church for after school play. It is a ministry that our church has for elementary students. They rollerskate, play basketball, air hockey, ect... Everyone gets home around 5 and the day continues on from there!

Won't You Read To Me Wednesday

2010-03-10T07:17:00.000-08:00

The book I am choosing today is...

I know, I know, not very original.

And can I make a confession?

Dr. Suess freaks me out. Seriously. I used to have nightmares about the books. Green Eggs and Ham made me nauseous. However, after taking Children's Lit at Mississippi College I developed a newfound appreciation for the man-weirdness and all. Then, when Laura Grace was born, I decided that all good mothers read Dr. Suess to their babies. Why I was that deranged I don't know. Anyway, I read and read and read. Laura Grace loved it! She loved the silly words and funny looking illustrations. When Layton came along he had a similar reaction. Today both of them can literally quote this book. Word for word. Clay says they are brainwashed.

So. I lost my whole point in the previous rambling paragraph. Basically, while Dr. Suess is weird, he has a place in my children's hearts and as a result one in mine.

Layton's Birthday Party #2

2010-03-10T06:25:00.000-08:00

Last week, Layton had two birthday parties. I think I mentioned this. The first party was with friends and the second party was with family at my inlaws house. These are the pictures

Dinner was all of Layton's favorite foods-fried chicken, green peas, green beans, creamed potatoes, deviled eggs, rolls, corn on the cob, and macaroni and cheese.

The birthday boy/girl gets to sit at the head of the table. Usually, Laura Grace has this chair at family meals. I was very impressed when she graciously offered it to him. I realize I look like I am choking my oldest. I was merely restraining her from blowing out Layton's candle.

Layton was VERY excited that he was able to blow out the candle unhindered.

He was also thrilled that he got to lick the chocolate frosting off his candles.

We bought him a new Tag book for his Tag reading system.

His Mimi and Grandaddy bought him a glove for tee ball this Spring. He was very excited!

Spring Fashion

2010-03-09T12:11:00.000-08:00

Last week I made an announcement.

Actually, the story is pretty funny. I told Clay that I had an important announcement and he almost passed out. You see, he thought I would be announcing another pregnancy. I quickly assured him that I was NOT pregnant but undergoing a major fashion transformation.

He was not impressed.

After Layton was born, I became this t-shirt wearing, seventy million pairs of flip flop owning, soccer mom. My wardrobe screamed, "Hi, I am tired and lactating." Not attractive.

Last summer, I was very pregnant and refusing to feel beat down by it. My solution was to buy several maternity dresses and wear them all summer. I felt great! Shamu like...but pretty! I realized then that my desire for clothes that are low maintenence and comfortable could still be met without looking frumpy.

This is where my announcement comes in.

I told Clay that I was going to be spending money on skirts and dresses for myself. This is what Clay envisioned due to me homeschooling this summer...

I quickly assured him that this was the only denim I would be wearing.

First, I was inspired by some great shoes.

Those are only two of the adorableness available at Target right now.

And then, Old Navy shocked me.

This skirt looks long but is actually a cute, flouncy skirt that stops at the knee. It is very flattering and available in several colors. Adorable.

This is probably my favorite out of all my new tops. I bought it in this pretty pastel pink and in a soft metal gray color.

I also really liked this tank. The detail at the top makes a casual, comfortable, and usually bland tank top very cute.

I love the rosettes on this tank.

I originally ordered this online as a swim coverup and was pleasantly surprised that it works well as a dress. I bought it in a pretty coral color.

The nautical look is in this Spring and I hated it until I tried on this dress. I love the navy and white combination.

I found this at Target...

Do you recognize the shoes? The dress is much cuter than the picture shows!

While I found some clothes that I love this season, I also found many that are simply too ugly for words.

Like these shorts. Rolled denim cutoffs died for a reason. Ugh.

This swim coverup is so hideous that it makes my toes curl. Seriously, fashion designers? Seriously?

THIS made me laugh. I, who can't even sew on a button, could make a more attractive dress using plastic wrap and toothpicks.

I mentioned this on facebook last week. Ladies, this is a denim potato sack. Why would anyone do this to themselves?!

Again...I laughed. And laughed. And then groaned a little. Clay says it is missing New Kids On The Block patches.

This lovely swim bottom makes me think of Austin Powers. And then I shudder.

A New Blog!!

2010-03-09T12:09:00.000-08:00

I am proud to debut my new blog.

It will not replace this one, but I felt like I needed another place to discuss most of homeschooling. I don't want it to take over this blog because I have important topics like Spring Fashion to discuss. That is coming soon by the way.

So.... I am proud to announce...

Mommy Brain Teaches.

I know, I know, the title is a shocker. I am so creative.

Wedding

2010-03-09T07:01:00.000-08:00

Featuring...

2010-03-08T09:22:00.000-08:00

This week, I am featuring Carrie. She is a sweet blog friend that I am enjoying getting to know. She has a precious family and is expecting! I love reading about pregnancies and new babies! Go check her out-I love how positive she always is.

1) When did you start blogging? What inspired you?

I started blogging when we announced that I was pregnant with our first baby, Aubrey, in February 2008. Our blog started out strictly as a "baby blog." We used it as a way to keep our families and close friends updated on my pregnancy. Aubrey is the first grandchild, so our families loved reading about every detail of my pregnancy that I was willing to share! :)

2) What is the purpose of your blog? What do you want people to come away with after reading it?

Well, like I said, the purpose of my blog originally was to keep people who cared updated on pregnancy details. But the more I blogged, the more I realized that I really did enjoy blogging. I always thought that after I had Aubrey I would be too busy to blog, and it would just kind of be put on the back burner. That was not the case though, and I started blogging even more after she was born. Now the reason I blog is to document Aubrey's (and our future children's) life. I often think about how cool it would be if I could go back and read my mom's thoughts/feelings/fears from when she was pregnant with me and learning to be a mom. It is my hope that one day, when she is a mother herself, Aubrey will be able to read my blog and find joy in the fact that she is feeling and experiencing some of the same emotions that I felt about her. So, really, I blog for Aubrey and all of the children God will bless us with in the future, Lord willing. Of course, our faith in Christ is extremely important to us, and I hope that people come away knowing that we strive to make Him the center of our home and live (and blog!) in a way that would honor Him.

3) Tell us, in a nutshell, about yourself.

I am a wife to David and a stay-at-home mom to Aubrey, who is almost 18 months old, and I am pregnant with a little boy who is due July 22nd! Aubrey keeps me pretty busy, but I enjoy decorating my house (probably more so than my husband would like! Haha.) and getting together for playdates with friends. I also read as much as possible during my precious spare time :)

4) What are your favorite blogs?

Hmm, that's a tough one. My favorite blogs are the blogs of people who I love. These aren't necessarily the "big blogs" with thousands of followers, but people just like me who are simply writing down their everyday experiences in life. I also love that I have met some really fun people through my blog that I may never actually meet "in real life" but that I now consider friends. Of course, I do have some "big blogs" that I love reading too. I like Kelly's Korner because she is just so down to earth and MckMama for the photography tips. I also love The Thrifty Decor Chick and The Nester -- I've gotten great decorating ideas from both of them. Oh, and The Pioneer Woman for delicious (usually very fattening!) recipes.

5) What is your favorite post that you have written? What was the hardest?

My favorite posts are usually the ones where I talk about cute little things that Aubrey has learned to do recently. These aren't necessarily the major milestones, and they probably aren't very interesting to anyone besides family, but they are little quirks that just make Aubrey Aubrey. I love recording little everyday things that would probably otherwise be forgotten. We'll probably all remember our children's first words, but we may not necessarily remember when they went through the adorable little stage where they had to kiss Mommy everytime they kissed Daddy. I blog so these little memories won't be forgotten. I also loved the post when I announced that Aubrey was going to be a big sister :) As far as hard posts, I try to stay away from controversial or difficult posts. That's just not the purpose of my blog. I do try to be honest and not act like we have this perfect life. I definitely talk about being frustrated and having hard days, but I don't want to stir up any drama on my blog :) I am a very opinionated person though, so I'm sure I'll have some drama at some point! Haha. There are also moral issues that we feel very strongly about, and I wouldn't shy away from talking about those if I felt it was appropriate, but for the most part I try to keep it light :)

Week In Review #7

2010-03-07T09:23:00.000-08:00

I feel like I should add a disclaimer before I get started. Last week several people made comments that I clean a lot and that I am so much more productive than them. I feel like I need to define what cleaning is when I mention it. I am by no means scrubbing grout with a toothbrush-I am just doing the everyday dishes, laundry, straightening, that we ALL do. Please don't think I am this Super Mom with a spotless house!

Monday-Woke up, made Laura Grace and Clay's lunch, did Pilates, and started on laundry. Clay took Laura Grace to school and the boys played on the floor while I got dressed. We went to Bible Study, ran errands, and then went home. Layton and Will took a nap while I cleaned house and had a quiet time with a cup of hot tea. I picked up Laura Grace from school, drove her to ballet, and came back home to start dinner. We had yeast rolls, vegetables, and Hamburger Helper. So nutritious. HA! Clay brought Laura Grace home from dance and we ate dinner together. After dinner, Laura Grace worked on homework and a school project with Clay. I went to the grocery store and tanning bed. When I got home the kids were already in bed. I was able to watch the last thirty minutes of the Bachelor finale. What a disappointment-I can't stand Vienna! I stuffed goody bags for Layton's birthday party while watching. After The Bachelor, I finalized my Girl Scout plans for the next day. I went to bed around midnight.

Tuesday- Mother's Morning Out day. I got up earlier, showered and dressed, ate breakfast, and then woke the kids up. Everyone got dressed and we left the house. I worked from 8 until 2. Clay picked up Layton at 2 for a haircut and Will and I picked up Laura Grace from school. I met Clay at the barber shop and dropped off Will, then Laura Grace and I went to Girl Scouts. I led the troop meeting, helped the girl's with a fun craft, and the monitored the general chaos that is twelve first grade girls. After Girl Scouts I changed clothes, touched up my makeup and hair, and then went to my church's family life center for Layton's birthday party. Clay, Will, and Layton met us there. Laura Grace and Clay helped me decorate the room and cook hotdogs for the party. The party guests arrived shortly after and we had a party for Layton's fourth birthday. After the party, we cleaned up and went home. I put my exhausted children to bed, straightened the house, and went to bed myself.

Wednesday- I woke up, got everyone off to school and work, and then cleaned house all day. I was exhausted! I picked Laura Grace up from school that afternoon, worked on homework, and then went to my inlaws for Layton's family birthday party. We ate dinner, opened presents and visited with family. Layton had a great night! We got home late and everyone went straight to bed. I made lunches for the next day and then went to bed myself.

Thursday- Mother's Morning Out day. I got everyone up and dressed and then out the door. When I got to work I realized that I had forgotten Layton's lunch. It hit me that I had also forgotten to give Laura Grace her lunchbox as well. I told my director I would be late, left work, and went back home. I got the lunchboxes, dropped Laura Grace's off at school, and went back to work. I worked until 2, picked up Laura Grace from school, and then came home. I helped Laura Grace with homework, folded laundry, and got ready for my Junior Auxillary meeting that night. Clay had a groomsmen dinner to attend for his brother, so my mother in law had to come over and babysit the kids. I went to my meeting, came home, got the kids in bed, and then walked around with a fussy Will. He was having problems settling down for the night. Finally, around 8, I got him to bed. I ate a sandwich for dinner while watching pointless television. I was not feeling well so I went to bed early.

Friday- Friday was hectic. We had my brother in law's wedding rehearsal that night and had tux fittings that morning. Clay didn't go to work so that he could get his tux and help me do last minute errands for the wedding. We ran errands and cleaned house all morning. My mom came into town around 2 and we ate a late lunch at the Coffee Addict downtown. We looked around in some of the boutique's-I bought a baby gift for a friend, some cute bibs for Will, and a summer dress for myself. We went back home and got dressed for the wedding rehearsal. My mom kept Layton and Will while Laura Grace, Clay, and myself went to the rehearsal. It was a large wedding party so the rehearsal took over two hours. After the rehearsal we ran home so I could breastfeed Will and put Laura Grace and Layton in bed. Once everyone was settled, we drove to the Tupelo Country Club for dinner. We had a wonderful time visiting with Clay's family and celebrating his brother and fiance'. After dinner we went home and visited with my mom until we all went to bed.

Saturday- Saturday was Clay's brother's wedding. I was a bridesmaid, Clay a groomsman, and Laura Grace was the flower girl. So, of course, I woke up running fever. I realized quickly that I had a full blown breast infection. I felt miserable. I dragged around all day, trying to get everything organized for that night. I got my hair done that afternoon, we all went to the church for pictures, and then went to the wedding and reception that night. It was a beautiful wedding, but very stressful for me because I was so sick. Will and Layton were also sick-they have bad colds. Will cried for me all day and was only happy if I was holding him. Layton coughed so much he threw up at the reception. It was bad. I was so glad to get home and into pajamas! My mom helped me get the kids into bed and made me hot tea. I spent the rest of the night fighting chills and fever. Will couldn't sleep and was up most of the night fussing.

Just in case you didn't know...

2010-03-05T11:16:00.000-08:00

When tanning it is always advisable to wear the same, or at least similar, undergarments.

By undergarments I mean unmentionables.

By unmentionables I mean that you should never wear skimpy you know whats after wearing shamefully granny like objects because that unexposed portion of your rear will get fried.

And it is very uncomfortable.

I just thought ya'll needed to be aware.

Layton's Birthday #1

2010-03-03T11:35:00.000-08:00

The Birthday boy!
Last night, we celebrated Layton's 4th Birthday. I held the party at our church's family life center. It was perfect because the kids had plenty of space to eat and run around.

The girls and some of the boys discovered markers and before I knew it they decorated the tables for everyone.

The kids also ran around in the gym-they played Basketball and Tee Ball. Laura Grace is playing tag with Clay in this picture.

After playing in the gym, everyone settled down for hotdogs, Cheetos, and Capri Suns. Well, Layton had Coke with the adults in his "special" cup. Please excuse my son.

Laura Grace decorated Layton's spot with a rainbow. Under it she wrote, "Happy Birthday, Layton!" Layton was very happy!

Clay picked out Layton's cake and did a great job. Layton was THRILLED. He loved that Lightening Mcqueen was "stuck in the mud!"

Layton was really, really, excited about blowing out the candle. Unfortunately, so was everyone else around him. The candle was blown out before he had a chance. He let out a siren wail of distress and I (in the red shirt behind him) quickly relit it and he blew it out.

Layton is now the proud owner of more Disney Cars merchandise than any boy could hope for.

We have his "family" party tonight!

Happy Birthday, Layton!

2010-03-03T06:49:00.000-08:00

I will never forget looking into your eyes and telling you that I would miss you being a baby. You were six months old then.

Today you are four and I am amazed at how fast the time went. I do miss you as a baby but am so, so blessed to know you as a "big boy" as well. You have the sweetest personality, a grin that lights up the room, and the two most mischievous brown eyes I have ever seen. I am so glad that I get to be your Mommy and can't wait to see what the next year brings!

What Makes You Happy?

2010-03-01T13:39:00.000-08:00

Sarah, over at the Broadus Bunch, made a list of things that make her happy. I loved it and decided to steal her idea. This comes at a perfect time because I am oh so cranky today. I hate being a woman sometimes.

Anyway. This is supposed to be a positive post.

1) The sound of my children laughing. Will has learned to really, truly laugh and the sound of all three of them giggling/cackling is priceless. I did have to be honest and call it cackling because let's admit it-often they are up to NO GOOD.

2) Will and Layton's budding relationship. Layton adores Will. He talks about him all day, he reads books to him, he plays next to him on the floor. When Will cries, Layton worries. When Will laughs, Layton laughs in sheer delight. This afternoon they laid on the floor together laughing for no reason but to laugh.

3) Laura Grace's love notes. She writes us little notes several times a week that make me melt.

4) The sight of Laura Grace running to my car at the end of the day. Her blond hair flies around her face and her big blue eyes shine because she is so happy to see me!

5) Fabric softener. I love, love, love how it smells.

6) Lavender scented baby wash. Divine.

7) The sweet scent of Will's breastmilk breath.

8) Will's fuzzy baby head.

9) My husband's eyelashes and big brown eyes.

10) Layton's eyelashes and big brown eyes. They are full of mischief-just like his daddy!

11) Flip flops and newly painted toenails.

12) Skirts and sundresses-they are all I am wearing this summer. I have decided. I just feel so much prettier in them!

13) Freshly sharpened pencils and a blank piece of paper.

14) A new pen and journal.

15) The smell of sunscreen.

16) The smell of chlorine on my children after they swim-it just smells like summer to me.

17) Pigtails on Laura Grace.

18) Shopping for clothes-it doesn't matter for who!

19) Christmas shopping.

20) How my house looks after it is decorated for Christmas.

21) Sunny days that are not too hot but not cool at the same time. Perfect Spring weather...

22) Riding horses.

23) Coffee.

24) Chocolate.

25) Planning for vacations-right now I am planning for our beach trip and Washington D.C. trip!

26) Pearls. I prefer them to diamonds.

27) The feel of sun on my face. Can you tell I am ready for spring?!

28) Summer afternoon storms. I love to spend all morning in the sun, nap when it gets stormy, and then have it clear up again.

The Bachelor

2010-03-01T06:11:00.000-08:00

I can't help myself. I love it. I hate reality tv but this show is like a train wreck that I can't stop watching.

I mean...seriously. The entire premise is pathetic in itself and the people are absolutely ridiculous. But, still. I will miss you Jake and Vienna and Tenley.

I am rooting for Tenley-she is sappy sweet to the point of irritation and if I hear one more thing about her ex I may scream. However, Vienna makes my skin crawl so that pretty much sealed my decision.

Week In Review #6

2010-02-28T14:35:00.000-08:00

Wait...didn't I just do this?!

The days are flying by quickly and somehow I lost last week. I can't believe I didn't blog or really even enter bloggy land.

Where was I?

Monday- I woke up grumpy, irritable, and feeling like I needed to escape. I am not sure where I wanted to go, but the last thing I wanted to do was get out of bed, make breakfast, and get my children up and dressed. I wanted to...I don't know...go to Hawaii or something.

That was not an option.

I got up, went running, woke my equally reluctant family up, we all ate and dressed and eventually Clay and Laura Grace went out the door. It then hit me that Bible Study was that morning and I should go. It wasn't Hawaii but possibly would cause a much needed escape. Or at least an attitude adjustment. I went and it was wonderful. Will did not enjoy the nursery nearly as much and I had to leave several times because we could hear him screaming down the hall. I finally brought him into the room with me and he squealed and hammed it up during prayer.

When we got home I made lunch, put the boys down for a nap, did laundry and conquered my dishes. The boys woke up soon after and while they played I cleaned bedrooms. Before I was ready we had to leave to pick up Laura Grace from school. We picked her up, drove her to dance, and then came home. I finished making beds and picking up around the house. I had a Junior Auxillary Meeting that night and Laura Grace had an Upwards Rally, so I ironed my clothes and her uniform. My mother in law called and volunteered to pick up Laura Grace since she was coming over to babysit Will and Layton. They came home just in time for me to serve them soup and sandwiches. I left and went to my meeting. When I came home, two hours later, I was greeted by a hysterical Will. He was ready to nurse. Again. I fed Will while visiting with my mother in law. Soon after Clay and Laura Grace got home. My mother in law left and we put the kids in the bath tub and then in bed. I worked on the next week's Girl Scout lesson and watched the Olympics with Clay.

Tuesday- Mother's Morning Out day. I got up early,did Pilates, got everyone dressed and ready, and went to work. I worked until 2, picked up Laura Grace from school, and went home. I worked on laundry, started dinner, and then Clay got home. It was a crazy afternoon. The kids ran around in circles and I considered taking Prozac-only halfway kidding there. It was just one of those days. We ate dinner (I honestly don't remember what it was) and then I went to the grocery store, the tanning bed, and various other places. I got home and watched the Olympics until bed.

Wednesday- I woke up, saw that it was in the twenties, and went back to bed instead of running. Clay woke me up in time for me to get Laura Grace ready for school. They left and I cleaned house until 9. Grandmother came over to babysit Layton and Will and I went to Tupelo so we could shop for Layton's upcoming birthday party, pick up Will's portrait proofs, and find Layton something to wear to my brother in law's wedding. I shopped all day and got home just in time to pick up Laura Grace from school. We came home and Grandmother played with the children while I cleaned house. We ate potroast and yeast rolls for dinner and then Clay and the older kids went to church. I made lunches for the next day, gave Will a bath, and then folded laundry while watching ice skating. When Clay and the kids got home we put them to bed and I fell asleep soon after.

Thursday- It was a bad, bad day. I went to work and it was a bad day for everyone there. I got home and the bad day continued with cranky children, a fussy baby, and overall chaos. Thankfully, Clay came home a little early and rescued me. Clay, Laura Grace, and Layton went to a birthday party while I put Will to bed and made a BBQ chicken pizza for me and Clay. When Clay and the kids came home we put them to bed and then ate dinner while watching the Olympics.

Friday- After everyone went to school and work, Grandmother came over to babysit Layton again. Will and I went to Tupelo to pick up my bridesmaid dress. It was still too big for me after alterations but it will stay up and at this point, that is all that matters! I ran more birthday errands in Tupelo and came home around lunchtime. Grandmother left and I put the boys down for a nap. I ended up crashing on the couch myself. My sweet friend, Rebecca, and her boys came over that afternoon so she picked up Laura Grace from school when she picked up her son. We had just sat down with coffee and cookies when her oldest began throwing up everywhere. It was bad. Poor Rebecca! I helped her clean everything up and they left. Laura Grace and Layton played outside until dark, I gave them a bath, fed them sandwiches and cereal for dinner, and then put them both in bed early. Clay was working late and I took full advantage of it getting dark before 7! He got home around 7 and I ran to the tanning bed and went running.

Saturday- Will got everyone up early. He wanted to play and was so loud that the older kids woke up. We ate breakfast and then everyone got dressed-Layton, Clay and Will went to a birthday party and Laura Grace and I went to my hair appointment. After my cut and color, we walked around all of the little boutique's downtown. She had so much fun looking at all of the clothes and jewelry! The boys met us for lunch at Mcdonalds and then we all went home. I cleaned house and ran errands while Clay and the kids played outside. Dinner for the kids was a sandwich and they went to bed around 7. Clay and I cooked dinner together and spent the rest of the evening talking and watching television. It was a nice, relaxing day!

Five Months Old

2010-02-28T12:00:00.000-08:00

I am five months old!!

This past month has been big for me. I am trying to sit up by myself, I can roll in both directions, and my personality has exploded. I love to squeal, say "dadadadada", and eat everything. And I do mean everything. I roll all over the floor and attempt to army crawl-Mommy is dreading this.

I love my saucer but will only stay in it for five to ten minutes before I need a change of scenery. I will sit in my swing or bouncy seat for even longer-but I do require someone talking to me. I need attention.

I follow my big brother and sister around with my eyes and grin at them whenever they look at me. I love those guys. Thankfully, they love me just as much and are always hugging me, kissing me, and reading me books. Layton uses his Tag pen to "read" to me.

Mommy is trying to feed me baby food and rice cereal. Well, actually, she gave up on the rice cereal. I hate that stuff. I also hate baby food. Sweet potatoes and sweet peas are okay, but after two or three bites I spit the rest out. Mommy really likes it when I spray her with it.

Did I mention I like to blow raspberries? Midnight is my favorite time to do this. I wake up and talk to myself and blow raspberries. I go back to sleep on my own because I am a good boy.

Typical schedule:

6 a.m.-Wakes up for the day. I nurse and play on the floor while Mommy and Daddy eat breakfast and drink coffee.

8 a.m. - Naptime. When I start sucking my fist and whining, Mommy knows that I am tired. She lays me on my tummy and I am asleep almost right away!

9 am.- I nurse again. I really like to do that. Then I play.

10 a.m.- Another nap.

11 a.m.- Once again, I eat. Did I mention I enjoy it?

1:00 p.m.- Another nap. This one usually lasts about an hour and a half if I am at home. If I am at Mother's Morning Out it is only an hour at the most. I don't like napping there.

2:00/3:00- I eat and then we pick up my big sister from school. The carseat is no longer a prison. I talk to my brother and blow raspberries at my feet. Mommy is very proud of me.

4:00- I nap again.

5:00/5:30- I wake up just in time for my family to eat dinner. Mommy nurses me and then I talk to my family from my bouncy seat.

6:00/7:00- bathtime, play time with Daddy, and wind down time. Mommy usually is gone running errands or taking care of the other children. Daddy spends time with me and I really like that.

7:30ish- I nurse and go to bed.

11ish-I wake up, eat, and go right back to bed.

2 a.m-Like clockwork I am up. I eat and go back to sleep.

4 a.m.- I eat again.

All of this nursing has made me rather plump. I am 26 inches and 18 pounds! I am wearing 6-9 month clothes and a size 3 diaper.

Do you like my beautiful eyelashes? Mommy is jealous.

I have learned to lift my arms up when I want to be picked up.

I also grin and laugh a bunch!

Week In Review #5

2010-02-21T15:47:00.000-08:00

Monday- Will woke up at 3 a.m. to eat. I sleepily asked Clay to get him out of his crib so I could feed him in bed. Clay said, "I think I have a fever. I think I may be..." and then he ran to the bathroom. He was violently sick for several, several hours. I put Will back to bed and began washing laundry and disinfecting everything. And I do mean everything. Around five a.m., Laura Grace came into the living room and said, "Mommy...I feel funny." I got her to the bathroom just in time. Clay was supposed to be going out of town that afternoon for several days, but we quickly realized that he would not be able to leave. I got my husband and daughter bathed, comfortable as possible, and then continued to clean.

Sickness makes me somewhat of a germaphobic maniac.

Layton and Will got up around 6 a.m. and cheerfully watched cartoons together. I eyed them like a hawk, but there were no signs of illness. Layton pointed out that it had snowed during the night. We had about 2 inches covering the ground. I had been to busy cleaning to notice it! The day continued with Laura Grace and Clay getting sick and calling for me. It was lovely.

Tuesday- 3 a.m. comes and once again, I am up with Will. He had been coughing all night and was not able to sleep well. We were rocking back and forth near the humidifier when I heard it.

A child throwing up.

I wanted to hide under my covers.

I put Will back in his crib and ran into Layton's bedroom. I just knew it was him. It was. He had gotten sick in his sleep. I will go no further except that I nearly burned everything. It seemed pointless to save it. I gave him a shower, washed all the linens, scrubbed down his room, disinfected his toys, and put him back to bed.

By this time it was 6 a.m. I made breakfast for myself and fed Will. Laura Grace came bouncing out of her room asking for breakfast as well. She ate a granola bar and a banana with no problem so I decided she was well enough for school. I got her dressed, Will dressed, and myself dressed for work. Clay got up and said that he felt well enough to care for Layton. I kissed them goodbye and rushed out the door. I dropped Laura Grace off at school and went to Mother's Morning Out. I worked until 2, picked up Laura Grace from school, and then went home. I got home to discover that Layton was much better and Clay had cleaned the kitchen after breakfast and finished the laundry. I love that man. I fed everyone soup and crackers for dinner, helped Laura Grace with her homework and then went to Tupelo. My friend, Rebecca, and I are doing the Grocery Game together and needed to shop at Kroger. We decided to ride together, so I picked her up and we drove to Tupelo. I returned some things at Old Navy, browsed through T.J. Maxx and bought new pillows (Layton had ruined several), and then we went to Kroger. We shopped and then drove back home. I was exhausted but loved spending time with her.

When I got home, Clay unloaded the groceries while I changed into pajamas and relaxed. I went to bed soon after!

Wednesday- I woke up during the night feeling horrible. I didn't have the stomach bug, but I could tell that I was getting a cold. By the time morning came I was sick with fever and cold symptoms. I sipped on hot tea while my family got dressed for work and school. Thankfully, Will slept in a little that morning so I was able to drink tea and slowly wake up. Clay took Laura Grace to school on his way to work so I would not have to leave the house. Layton and I spent the morning cleaning house, organizing my kitchen cabinets (because we have very little cabinet space), and reading books. My friend, Rebecca, picked up Laura Grace from school for me and dropped her off around 3. We worked on homework and they watched a movie until time for dinner. I cooked baked chicken, cheesy broccoli and roasted potatoes. We ate, Clay came home, and then he went to church. I cleaned up the kitchen, gave Will a bath, put him to bed, put the rest of my children in bed and then enjoyed some tea while watching the Olympics. Clay came home after church and we watched the Olympics until I fell asleep myself.

Thursday- I woke up early, went running, came home, got up the rest of the family, we all got dressed and went to work and school. I held and fed babies until 2, picked up Laura Grace from school, went home and cleaned house. Laura Grace and I went over her homework and then read some of Secret Garden together. When Clay got home we ate Beef Stroganoff and salad, and then I cleaned the kitchen. I drove Laura Grace to cheer practice, went to the tanning bed, ran errands, went walking with a friend, and then picked up Laura Grace and came home. I put her to bed and watched the Olympics with Clay.

Friday- I woke up, went running and then I cleaned. Cleaning is pretty much the theme of Friday. My sister, Amy, was coming to visit and I cleaned like an insane woman. Why I am worried about my sister finding a dust bunny, I have no idea. Will and Layton had a great time playing on the floor most of the morning. Honestly, it was wonderful. I didn't have a sick child or a fussy baby! Clay came home early and I went running again and then to the tanning bed before Amy and her family arrived. They got to my house around 8 that night. My kids were so excited. They ran circles around the house with their cousins, Coen and Adeline. We finally got them in bed around 10, but they did not actually fall asleep until after 11!

Saturday- I woke up to giggling. Giggling and running feet and whispering. At 5 a.m. I stumbled into the living room, herded all of the over excited children back into Layton's room, and told them to play quietly while the adults rested. I went back to my bedroom to see Will looking around in his crib. Grinning. I gave up at that point and just made coffee. My sister got up shortly after and we made breakfast for everyone. After breakfast, Amy and I decided to go walking. We walked for 3 miles-just talking and enjoying each other's company. It was so nice to spend that time together. When we got home we settled down the chaos, put the kids in the backyard and then, at the suggestion of my wonderful husband, went shopping at some of the stores downtown. Around lunch, we met up with our families and ate. Laura Grace had her last Upward's game so we all loaded up and went to it. We watched Laura Grace cheer and the boys run in circles. Then, we went to Tupelo so the kids could play in Barnes and Noble and ride the mall carousel. While the kids played, Amy and I went shopping. Again. I love my husband. After shopping, the kids were all whining for food so we left the mall and went to this great catfish resteraunt. We pigged out, went home, and put our exhausted children to bed. We spent the rest of the evening watching a movie and the Olympics.

Sunday- Everyone slept in until almost 8 that morning. Amy and I went walking and then picked up doughnuts for breakfast because Coen kept insisting that his daddy was going to buy us all doughnuts! The kids ate and then went outside to play because it was GORGEOUS. Amy helped me get Taco Soup simmering on the stove and then we cleaned house while Clay went to church and Justin watched the Olympics. My inlaws came over for lunch and we spent the afternoon visiting with family. Everyone-including Amy and Justin-left that afternoon. I was so sad! I spent the rest of the day running errands, cleaning house, and getting ready for the next week!

YAY!

2010-02-19T10:50:00.000-08:00

My sister, Amy, and her family are coming to stay the weekend! I am so excited! Layton says he is even more excited because his cousin is coming to spend the night in his room. Laura Grace is concerned that her uncle Justin will not want to spend the night on her pink sheets!

I just realized how much Amy and I look alike... I am in the yellow and she is in the black. See her scarf? Yeah, she is stylish like that. I am in the fleece vest that everyone had four years ago. Layton and Coen (in the button down shirt) could be twins... And the cute little boy with the laser pistol? That is Trey, my other nephew. He was going with a Charlie's Angels theme.

Featuring...

2010-02-18T13:25:00.000-08:00

This week I am featuring Sarah Denley from In The Warm Hold Of Your Loving Mind. I have never met her personally...we don't think. We went to college around the same time and I think we may have had classes at the same time. I feel like I know her personally from reading her blog! She is a sweet mother, wife, and friend-I really enjoy her blog so go check her out!

1) When did you start blogging? What inspired you?

I started my blog in July of 2008. A couple of my friends had blogs and it was intriguing to me. Looking back at those first few months, I posted so infrequently and about such random things! It was such a "catch all" place and it took me awhile to find my niche. Anyway, when I got pregnant, it turned into a lot more and after Ann Peyton was born I grew to love it even more than that. The more open and vulnerable I allowed myself to be, the more I enjoyed it. I never dreamed it would be so important to me.

2) What is the purpose of your blog? What do you want people to come away with after reading it?

I want people to know that I love the Lord and that I am not afraid to be real. There are some things that I won't post about, but those things are few and far between. I want my blog to be a very honest picture of our family's life. I also want it to be a place for Ann Peyton to read about her childhood (and my Mommyhood) if she so desires one day. My mom has a really hard time remembering our early years and I want to capture the days, months and years of our life so that will never be a problem I have! I also write a lot of posts like a diary; my blog is just a great way to process and articulate the things I am feeling. I have found it to be a great catharsis. And hearing from others moms is always an encouragement! 3) Tell us, in a nutshell, about yourself. I am a wife, a mom, a substitute teacher, a pretty lousy domestic engineer, a part time childcare worker, a really lousy cook, an amateur writer, an enthusiastic reader, a caffineaholic, and an ebay addict. Most importantly, I am saved by God's grace. I just recently wrote a post about how I want that to be the thing I find my identity in.

4) What are your favorite blogs?

There are too many to name. As far as the "big" Mommy bloggers, I love Kelly's Korner and The Spohrs Are Multiplying, but Bring the Rain is probably my favorite. I just about die laughing every time I read Big Mama or Boo Mama. Stuff Christians Like and Graph Jams are hysterical, too. Two new favorites that I have fallen in love with are The Velveteen Mind and BubandPie. Finding these was like finding a great new friend and a great new book all at the same time (really exciting!). As far as baby related stuff, Upscale Baby is a great place to find adorable stuff and I love Little Miss Heirlooms because I adore vintage things. Also, Babble is a good place for parenting articles. Momversation is another favorite. Cardigan Empire is my favorite "fashion blog" and Organizing Junkie and Home Sanctuary are great "homemaking blogs". I like A Feathered Nest and Joys of Home for create decorating/DIY project ideas. And as far as personal family blogs, there are SO many I love and I know I'd leave someone out, but they are all on my sidebar.

5) What is your favorite post that you have written? What was the hardest?

It's really hard to narrow down a favorite. I always love making lists and I love surveys and memes, so those are really fun posts! I also like blogging about Ann Peyton's wardrobe and doing my Won't You Read to Me Wednesday posts. There are some specific posts that I really like, too, though. I love finding humor in goofy things and I love sharing my heart on issues that I am passionate about. I really enjoyed creating a timeline of my life because it was so fun to remember back and try to sum up each year in a few sentences. The letters I write to Ann Peyton will always be some of the most important things I've written and the one I wrote after her baptism is especially meaningful.The hardest post I've ever written was the post where I wrote for the first time about how much we did not want a baby when we found out I was pregnant with Ann Peyton. I included it in a survey and didn't go into a whole lot of detail (I have since expanded on it), but it was so frightening to put that out there. I was really scared of the judgment I thought people would feel and I didn't want anyone to think I didn't love my daughter. But it is such a HUGE part of my testimony that I had to.

Watercolor Ponies

2010-02-17T14:32:00.000-08:00

My refrigerator. It isn't pretty but I am so proud of it!

Laura Grace drew this when Will came home from the hospital. It is a picture of him in the hospital with all of the family around. It says, "What is in my moms tomy Will is is my moms tomy."

These pictures are of Layton when he was nine months old.

Laura Grace wrote me this note a few weeks ago.

Layton gave me this card last year-it is one of my favorite pictures of him.

Laura Grace drew this for school and it was chosen for display at the library.
Layton very carefully covered this S with sprinkles-and was very proud of it.
Some of my favorite pictures from last fall and winter.
Layton made this for me for Valentines Day this year.

What is on your refrigerator?

My parents used to listen to the song, Watercolor Ponies, by Wayne Watson. I used to think it unbearably cheesy. Now, as a parent, it comes to mind everytime I look at my refrigerator.

There are watercolor ponies
On my refrigerater door
And the shape of something
I don't really recognize
Drawn by careful little fingers
And put proudly on display
A reminder to us all
Of how time flies

Seems an endless mound of laundry
And a stairway laced with toys

Gives a blow by blow

Reminder of the war

That we fight for their well-being

For their greater understanding

To impart a holy reverance

For the Lord

But, baby, what will we do

When it comes back to me an you?

They look a little less

Like little boys every day

Oh, the pleasure of watching

The children growing

Is mixed with a bitter cup

Of knowing the watercolour ponies

Will one day ride away

And the vision can get so narrow

As you view through your tiny world

And little victories can go by

With no applause

But in the greater evaluation

As they fly from your nest of love

May they mount up with wings

As eagles for His cause

Lazy Afternoon

2010-02-17T14:24:00.000-08:00

Laura Grace and Layton are still feeling weak from having the stomach bug earlier this week. When Laura Grace got home from school she quickly finished her homework, put on her favorite dress up outfit, and grabbed some books. I popped popcorn for a snack and they quickly found a comfortable spot to settle in.

Won't You Read to Me?

2010-02-17T06:32:00.000-08:00

The book I am choosing this week is...

Mike Mulligan and his Steam Shovel is one of my favorite books for little boys. Laura Grace loves it as well, but there is just something about construction vehicles and dirt that grabs little boy hearts. Layton loves it when I read and exaggerate the sound effects! The story is timeless and focuses on friendship and loyalty, as well as hardwork and determination.

On another note, I am cleaning out bookshelves to catalog what books we own-my children have so many that I lose track of them. I want to have a organized list for when we start homeschooling this summer-so many of the classic children's books go along with the KONOS curriculum I will be using. In the meantime, I have a post in the works about them!

Pictures From The Past

2010-02-17T05:41:00.000-08:00

Layton-he was around 8 months and loved those fruit puffs!
Me and Layton on his first birthday

It is amazing how much Will looks like Layton! He was about 8 months old in this picture

Laura Grace has always been very stylish! She is 3 in this picture and Layton is almost 1.

My sweet children

I was going through old pictures because I am making photobooks of each child. I found these pictures from several years ago and thought they were worth sharing.

Homeschooling Curriculum

2010-02-16T03:36:00.001-08:00

As I mentioned in a previous post, last week I sat down with Roan from Joyful Johnsons and talked homeschooling. She has five children and has homeschooled them for over ten years. She was kind enough to show me her curriculum that she has used and is using, as well as let me bounce ideas off of her. Go check out her blog-her family is precious. I was so impressed with her children's manners and sweet spirits!

Anyway, her advice helped tremendously. I have been pouring through curriculum catalogs and websites for several months now. It is overwhelming how much information is out there! My biggest challenge was deciding on what method of homeschooling/curriculum would be the best fit for my children and my teaching style. I loved the idea of unit studies because they are hands on and wonderful for families with multiple children in different ages. However, they are also intimidating and overwhelming because there is so MUCH to them. Roan sat down with me and showed me how she adjusted the lessons to fit her needs and how NOT to get overwhelmed.

I was so excited! I really think it was an answer to prayer because I knew that unit studies were the best plan for me but I worried about burn out. I tend to throw myself into things full force and then go so hard and fast that I get exhausted and fed up with it all. When you look at unit studies there are so many activities and options that if you try and do them all even the most experienced homeschooler would be exhausted! The key is to pick and choose. Decide what will most benefit and engage your children. Then, have fun with it! Laura Grace is such a hands on, creative learner that I think she will enjoy many of the projects. The beauty of unit studies is that Layton can do them right along with us even though he is a few years younger.

This is my plan so far...

Beginning in June:

Math- Horizons Math 1st grade, 2nd semester book. There are some concepts in the 2nd grade math that Laura Grace has not covered in school. I want to keep her math skills sharp over the summer, as well as catch up on what she needs to know for the fall.

Read Little House books and do unit studies based on these books. We will study the history of that time period, draw and illustrate pictures, make food (we have a Little House cookbook), and dress up like the characters. At the end of the summer we had already planned to visit a Pioneer Museum so it will tie in nicely with what we have learned.

Review first grade spelling words. I will add to them as the summer progresses.

Bible- I am going to work through a children's devotional book I found at Lifeway.

Fall (2nd grade):

Math- Horizons Math

Bible, Science, Social Studies, History, and Literature- KONOS. I am going to begin with the Obediance study. Each Konos book/unit study focuses on a character trait. It then ties in Bible, Science, History, Cultures, ect...

Grammar- Easy Grammar System Nearly every homeschooling mom I have talked to praises this system. It breaks grammar up into small lessons that any child can sit still for!

Handwriting- I am going to use Easywrite.com and create my own. I will have Laura Grace write about what she is reading, copy passages or poetry, or simply work on spelling words.

For Preschool:

Layton will be four next month so I am going to begin preschool with him. I am going to tie in Kindergarten curriculum as well because he already knows all of his letters, the sounds they make, numbers, shapes, ect... He is actually beginning to learn how to read on his own. I have realized that I need to take advantage of this passion and begin teaching him more diligently.

He will do the KONOS activities with Laura Grace and I will use letteroftheweek.com on a daily basis. I am also using Get Ready For The Code with him. Finally, we will read books-lots and lots of books!

I need some matches.

2010-02-16T03:33:00.000-08:00

Layton now has the stomach bug.

This is my second night without sleep and I am getting the urge to just burn everything and start over.

Not really. Ya'll know what I mean.

I AM SO READY FOR SPRING!!!

Week In Review #4

2010-02-15T15:33:00.000-08:00

I honestly can't remember what we did last week. Or the week before. Isn't that sad?!

Okay, thinking...

Monday- We woke up to snow and sleet so the schools were closed. I was a little annoyed at myself for not watching the news before I forced Laura Grace to wake up! She very rarely sleeps in, but she was that morning. The roads in Memphis were icy so Clay also stayed home. He watched the kids while I ran to the tanning bed and the grocery store. When I got home I cleaned house and made chicken salad for lunch. Clay drove Laura Grace to dance for me so I could finish up laundry. I read books to Layton and Will while Laura Grace was at dance. When she got home I cooked Chicken Spaghetti for dinner. We ate, the kids had a bath, and we put them to bed VERY early. I think it was 6:30... I watched Bachelor and Castle with Clay and then went to bed.

Tuesday- Mothers Morning Out days are hard for me. I got up at 5:30, ate breakfast, watched some Fox news, took a shower and then got Laura Grace and Layton up. They ate bowls of cereal (Layton loves chocolate mini wheats and Laura Grace loves frosted mini wheats) while I did my hair and makeup. Meanwhile, Clay fed Will cereal (he only eats three bites before spitting it all out) and dressed him for me. I realized that I had forgotten to make lunches the night before so I made lunches for all five of us. I then checked over Laura Grace's bag, only to discover that she was supposed to read a passage from her language arts book over the weekend. I put the kids in the car, gave her the book, and she read to me on the way to school. I dropped her off, drove through Mcdonalds for another coffee because I needed more, and then went to Mother's Morning Out. I worked in the baby room until 2. Many of the babies are still sick from the RSV breakout so we only had a few babies. Layton, Will, and I left work, picked up Laura Grace from school, and then met Clay at home. He took over with the kids while I ran to Tupelo to meet with Roan. She sat down with me and let me pick her brain about homeschooling and curriculum. I was so excited about meeting her! I got a phonecall I discovered that Laura Grace had a red light for talking too much in class. I disciplined her, helped her with homework, and went over her sight words. We had chicken stir fry for dinner thanks to my sweet husband! After dinner I ran to the tanning bed while Clay gave the kids their bath. I got home, helped tuck everyone in bed, and then went to a meeting. After my meeting I worked on several projects and Sudoku puzzles until I fell asleep.

Wednesday- Wednesday morning, Will had an appointment to have his portraits made. I was so excited! I woke up early, got dressed, dressed and fed the kids, made Clay's lunch and saw them out the door. Clay drove Laura Grace to school so I could get some housework done before I drove to Tupelo. Grandmother came over around 9 to babysit Layton because I knew it would be much easier to only take Will. I drove to Tupelo and spent two hours trying to keep Will still enough so that they could take a picture! He kept trying to sit up or he would roll over. It was so cute and we ended up getting some beautiful pictures of him and his personality. After the picture appointment, I ran some errands in Tupelo. I had to buy ink at a specialty toner store, return some clothes to Old Navy, and pick up my contacts. Will did really well and only fussed a little in Old Navy. I got home around 1, ate lunch, folded laundry while I visited with Grandmother, and then left to pick up Laura Grace from school. When we got home I helped her with homework, fed the kids leftover Chicken Spaghetti, and when Clay got home they went to church. I cleaned the kitchen, gave Will a bath, put Will to bed, wrote names on Layton's valentines, stuffed treat sacks with candy, and then fell asleep while watching HGTV. I woke up long enough to plan my menu for next week and make a grocery list.

Thursday- Mother's Morning Out again. Layton had to take cupcakes to his class party so I had to juggle 24 cupcakes, a baby, my lunch, Layton's backpack, Layton's coat, my purse, Will's diaper bag, and my coat. It was interesting. We spent the day eating junk food in the baby room. The babies were all too little to have a party but the grownups had one! I picked up Layton who was bouncing off the walls from his sugar high and picked up Laura Grace from school. She had gotten a red light again and it was not pretty. We went home, did homework, and ate pizza for dinner. I took Laura Grace to cheer practice, ran some errands, and got home after the kids were in bed. Laura Grace got a ride home from a friend so I could have time to get my errands done. I was so thankful! Clay had cleaned up the kitchen so I was able to sit and relax! I worked on my grocerygame.com list, my next Girl Scout meeting, and looked through some homeschool curriculum.

Friday- It was Laura Grace's turn for a Valentine's party. I drove her to school, cleaned house, did laundry, and then got dressed. Grandmother came over to babysit while I ran to her class party. I brought the cupcakes and the class was thrilled to say the least. We had a wild party and then, for some insane reason, I invited two of Laura Grace's best friends over (Emma and Maggie). Actually, it wasn't too insane-they are precious girls and had a blast running circles around my house. Screaming. At the top of their lungs. Somehow, Will napped through most of this. When Clay got home, I ran one of the girls home and went to the movie store to rent Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs. The teenage/college aged boy behind the counter tried to convince me to buy/rent an array of things and I barely left in time to still pick up a warm sausage and olive pizza from Dominoes. This pizza is not my favorite combination, but for some unfathomable reason my children love it. Macaroni and cheese they will not eat, but they will eat black olives and sausage. We watched the movie, pigged out on pizza, and had a great family night. After the kids went to bed, Clay and I watched the Olympic opening ceremony. At some point I fell asleep and Clay helped me stumble to bed. This happens often.

Saturday- I was coming down with a cold and Will is not sleeping well at night-because of this Clay let me sleep in :) He made pancakes and coffee before he woke me up. My husband amazes me with his thoughtfulness. After breakfast, Laura Grace and I got dressed. We were going with my mother in law to Memphis for the day so we could get some shopping accomplished. Will came along as well because I can't leave him for more than two hours. He still nurses frequently and baby food is not his favorite. Anyway, we did the majority of our shopping at Target. I love that store. I can't say it enough. I am the proud owner of four new pairs of shoes (that post is coming) and a precious outfit. Laura Grace got three pairs of shoes, Layton got one, and Will has swimming trunks and a rashguard for the beach. We got home from Memphis around 3. I realized then that I needed to go to Old Navy and exchange something. Clay and I loaded the kids up and drove to Tupelo. It was a huge mistake. Will was tired of riding in the car and screamed the entire 30 minute drive. He then screamed through the unbelievable Valentine's traffic and screamed some more the way home. I was still feeling sick when we got home so after we all ate leftovers the kids went to bed and I followed!

Sunday-Will woke up congested and fussy. I kept him home and Clay took other kids to church. I cleaned house, clipped coupons, and listened to Hillsongs praise music. Will loved the song, "Mighty to Save". We danced around the house while I prayed and sang along-it was one of those moments that I could have stayed in forever. Precious. After church, Clay picked me and Will up. My inlaws had us over for lunch and a movie. While the kids watched the movie I ran to Tupelo so I could get my grocery shopping finished. Clay was leaving to go out of town the next day and I wanted to make sure I was not stuck with three children in the grocery store! I got home just in time for Clay to take the children back to church. Will went to bed as soon as he got home because he was still fussy. I put away the groceries and made myself some hot tea. I filled out Layton's birthday party invitations and planned some of his party details while watching HGTV. When Clay got home we put the kids in bed and both fell asleep early. I was awakened in the middle of the night with Clay and Laura Grace both throwing up. That was the start of next week!

There Are No Words

2010-02-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

Actually, I do have words-ya'll just don't want to hear them.

Clay and Laura Grace have a stomach virus or the flu. Layton is saying he feels funny and I am not feeling great myself. However, Will is going strong and wanting to eat every hour or so. We are having a great time at my house.

Valentine's Weekend

2010-02-14T07:53:00.001-08:00

This year, Valentine's Day has stretched from Thursday to Sunday. It started with the parties at Mother's Morning Out. I work in the baby room so me and the girls I work with tortured the babies by ordering pizza for lunch. Layton's class went all out-they exchanged Valentine cards, had a pizza party, and ate cupcakes the size of their heads. I was the parent that brought those cupcakes and snagged a few for my class. We did let some of the older babies eat a little of the icing because they were about to riot. By the end of the day, Layton had a paper grocery sack literally full of candy. A grocery sack. When we got home, Layton and Laura Grace disappeared into his room. I was naive enough to think that they were playing quietly. I really do not know why I was shocked to discover them sitting on his floor, surrounded by dozens of candy wrappers.

Bouncing off the walls does not even begin to describe it.

Friday, Laura Grace had her class party. Being the dutiful homeroom mom, I brought cupcakes and came to referee the class. I walked in to the classroom and was immediately confronted by screaming pandemonium. After a rather noisy hour, I left and brought Laura Grace and two of her friends home with me. I thought it would be nice for her to enjoy a playdate but did not think about the fact they had just consumed massive amounts of sugar. For three hours they ran around my house, giggling and screaming. I just let them run and scream. I figured there was no point even trying to make them calm down. Eventually, the sugar high came crashing down and they watched a movie in near silence.

Around dinner time the girls went home and I ran some errands. We decided to have a low key Valentine's this year because our budget was tight this month. It ended up being the best thing we could have done. I picked up a sausage and black olive pizza (my kid's favorite-I pick off the olives), a 2 liter Diet Coke (Laura Grace insists on Diet...hilarious because she gets that from me), and ice cream. You would have thought I brought home a pony. The kids were SO excited. Clay suggested we rent a movie on paper view and let them eat around the coffee table. Again, you would have thought there was a pony or live circus in our backyard. Layton and Laura Grace had the best time eating and watching Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs. Will hung out in my lap until he fell asleep. It was all a little much for him. After the kids went to bed, Clay and I watched the Olympic's opening ceremony. We also consumed massive amounts of ice cream.

Saturday morning, Laura Grace, Will, my mother in law, and I went to Memphis and shopped. I got several new pairs of shoes, we picked up Laura Grace's flower girl dress and shoes, and found Will a swim suit for the beach. Laura Grace requested lunch at Wendy's and then we came home. Will did really well for being in his car seat most of the day!

That evening we ran errands in Tupelo, came home and fed the kid's leftovers. When they were in bed, Clay and I ate dinner together, watched a movie, and then talked until I fell asleep. It was not a night out for us, but I honestly prefer hanging out at home! I have such a sweet husband and I love that we are best friends.

This morning, Clay let me sleep in and got up with the kids. I opened my eyes to see a pink card laying on my nightstand. Clay had one on his as well. Laura Grace made us cards!

Are they not adorable? I was so impressed that she kept them a secret!

Clay made pancakes for breakfast and then took the older kids to church. Will woke up congested and fussy so we are staying in this morning. At lunch time we are eating at my inlaws and watching Up with the children.

I hope everyone else enjoyed their family this weekend. HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!

Layton

2010-02-12T06:59:00.000-08:00

Seemingly overnight, Layton has lost the soft roundness and dimpled hands of toddler hood. When I hug him, he is all angles and legs. It is astonishing how a baby transforms so quickly into a child that has completely stolen your heart. Layton is, and always will be, a joy. He is bubbly, funny, sweet, and in my unabashed mother's opinion, adorable.

Because he is so easy going, I realize that he does not get the spotlight often. I was determined not to let him become the stereotypical "middle child" but I do realize that in the antics of his big sister and the needs of his baby brother, he is in the middle. So, today, I wanted to give him the spotlight for a little while.

What I am loving about him right now...

-he is always hugging and kissing us. Whenever Will is playing on the floor or in his bouncy seat, Layton will periodically stop what he is doing, kiss Will, and then go about his business. It is precious to see that natural, uninhibited affection.

-He is always asking, "will you join me"? or "will you cuddle with me?"

-Layton loves to carry around his Tag pen as he plays. His favorite story is The Little Engine That Could.

- His favorite phrases are, "Wow! That's Cool!" and "That is so sweet and nice of you!".

-He sleeps with his Lightening Mcqueen, Mator, Chuck, Filmore, and Ramone cars from the CARS movie. He carries them in his pockets during the day.

- When Will went for his four month shots, Layton told the nurse that she could NOT do that to his brother. He said that Will was too little and sweet.

-He loves to pray. At bedtime, nap time, and meal time he requests to pray. He bows his head and whispers, "Dear Jesus, thank you for this wonderful day. Thank you for my family and friends. Thank you for my food/bed. I love you. Amen."

-Layton has become a bit of a picky eater. When he does not like to eat something he says, "It is too cherry!". He hates anything fruit flavored, tomato sauce, and any kind of pasta.

-On the other hand, he loves carrots, apples, oranges, and shredded wheat cereal. He gets quite a bit of fiber throughout the day!

-He wears a cowboy hat around and says he is Mickey the Three Musketeer.

-He adores his big sister and baby brother. He tells them throughout the day how much he loves them.

-Out of the blue, several times a day, he will hug me or Clay and say, "I love you."

He melts my heart.

Laura Grace and Clay

2010-02-11T14:18:00.000-08:00

Clay and Laura Grace went to a Daddy, Daughter Ball last weekend. They had a great time eating a special dinner (chicken fingers, ranch potatoes, and salad), decorating cupcakes, making wands, visiting the balloon man, and dancing. Laura Grace was beautiful and so happy to have that time with her daddy!

Featuring...

2010-02-10T16:19:00.000-08:00

My blog feature is late, but better late than never! The blog I am featuring this week is It's Not That Bad. I love her blog and Jessica even more. She is one of those women that I refer to as one of my friends even though we have never actually met. I talk to her on facebook and through bloggy land and somehow forget that we have never actually talked. Clay reminds me of this very often, but even he laughs when I tell him about her children's antics. Jessica is currently one of my heroes because the temperature where she lives pretty much stays below zero. I would not function! Not only does she function, but she goes to Target. SHE ACTUALLY LEAVES HER HOUSE! I would just wear fourteen sweaters and stay huddled by a heater...

Go check her out!

1. When did you start blogging?
I started blogging in March 2005. (Holy cow it’s been five years!) My first blog was on xanga.com and I started it because my brother had one and he told me it was cool. I moved over to blogspot later on because it seemed more “grown up.”

2. What is the purpose of your blog? What do you want people to come away knowing about you?
The purpose of my blog has changed over time. When I started it was just a silly thing I did to record my thoughts during my first years as a wife and a teacher. Since our kids have been born I’ve used it to help our long distance relatives keep up to date with our goings on, as well as to record funny things that happened to me at school. Now that we have moved out of state and I’m a stay at home mom I’ve been writing about adjusting to a new place and what we’re up to. One of these days I’d like to get my blogs bound into a book--I think that would be a neat keepsake.

3. Is there anything you would change about your blog? Not really. I’m not the best writer or photographer but I do try to be myself. What you see is what you get on It’s Not That Bad

.4. Tell us, in a nutshell, about yourself.
I’m 27 years old, wife to Dan, mother to Luke and Chloe, Christian. We just moved from Missouri to North Dakota. I taught high school for 4 years before we moved but am now a stay at home mom. It’s been a big adjustment (moving and staying home) but most days I love it. I will like North Dakota more in June when the snow melts.

5. What are your favorite blogs?

Of course I’m a fan of Christy’s blog! I have a list of blogs I read on my sidebar, but some include Classless and Lovin’ It, Cow Patty Surprise, Far Beyond Pearls, He Will Carry Me, Pioneer Woman, and Steece’s Pieces.

Swamped.

2010-02-10T06:20:00.000-08:00

My to do list is longer than I can handle at this point. Will is getting portraits done this morning, then I have errands, a house to clean, and children to kiss and talk with. I also have various projects that need to be completed by the end of the week. I will be back-but it may be next week!! That is one thing I don't like about blogging, I feel guilty if I don't post every day and even guiltier when I can't read the blogs I follow!

Regularly Scheduled Programming...

2010-02-08T08:54:00.000-08:00

or posting rather, has been interrupted. This girl has WAY too much to do. My house is so embarassing I wouldn't let my own mother see it. A surprise snow day has added to the chaos of a teething baby who convienently developed an ear infection, a three year old who is running amuck and a laundry pile the size of Mt. Everest.

I have noticed that I talk about my laundry a lot lately.

Anyway, Monday blog feature will happen tomorrow!

Please, Don't Laugh

2010-02-06T16:38:00.000-08:00

I am so not photogenic anymore. I used to be. Thank goodness I was during my wedding. Clay pointed out that it looked like you photoshopped my pictures because my face looks the same in every single picture. But, now...now is another story.

This is my new haircut. And color. Yes, the haircut looks pretty much like it did the other time I got it cut, but the color is much darker.

I have no idea why I posed in front of my bathroom window. I have the knack for picking the WORST backgrounds when I take pictures. I will take this cute picture of my kids and the laundry is overflowing in the background.

And then, the infamous do it myself pictures. Why do we do this to ourselves? Or am I the only one who can't take a good picture of myself, by myself?

<

See the holes in the wall? Yeah, I took down the towel rod because I am going to repaint our bathroom because I hate the gold color. But then I changed my mind but took the picture BEFORE I hung the shower rod back up. Why do I do this to myself?

And the teeth. Goodness gracious I am all teeth. And against yellow they look well...yellow. I apparently am very secure in my relationship with you people because I am showing them to you.

Shopping

2010-02-05T16:04:00.000-08:00

Shopping for children's clothes is a wonderful thing. I love it. I have posted about my love of monograms, smocked clothing, and their entire appearance in general. I can't find the one about smocked clothing. Chances are I wrote it and never hit publish. Anyway.

I have had to come to terms that Layton will be four this month. Not only will he be four and a big boy, butfour is way too old for him to be wearing appliqued and smocked clothing. Clay did assure me that the occasional monogram is acceptable. I mourned this for awhile. I poured over the Castles and Crowns catalog just last night wishing that I could buy matching brother and sister outfits. However, that time has passed and I just need to get over it! With big boy status also comes a child that can make his own snack. That is serious progress.

So, this morning, I went shopping for Layton. I had my friend, Rebecca, come with me because she is an experienced shopper of all big boy items. She has two sons that are Layton and Laura Grace's age. I told her I needed her expertise on boy's clothes because Clay said if I came home with anything babyish he would take over shopping for the boys. I also thought it was a great excuse for a girl's day. Well, not totally a girl's day because Will was there... The point is, I went shopping.

I went to Old Navy because they are having a fabulous sale. I was leery at first because Old Navy does not always have the best quality. Don't get me wrong, I love a good deal! I just want my clothes to last all season! I found some great stuff! I love how little boys look in madras shorts and plain tees and polos. I bought several polos, tees, and shorts that I could mix and match for him. I also got these adorable shirts...

I went to Belk afterwards, and while I did not find anything for Layton, I did come across these dresses for Laura Grace. I thought they were precious! I love the J. Khaki brand for girls. I think that they are still adorable and stylish without making her look like a teeny bopper.
I got her leggings to go with this dress.

This one will be perfect for the beach!

What We Eat

2010-02-04T14:26:00.000-08:00

I am nosy when it comes to what people eat. I think it is probably strange but I am. My favorite part of house hunting is opening pantries and cabinets because I can see their dishes, food, and pretty much gauge their lifestyle from it. Yes, I am probably way too obsessed with food.

I will never forget opening someone's refridgerator (it came with the house) and saying, "WOW!! They eat a lot of burritos!!" My realtor and husband were mortified. Again, I realize this is nosy and rude. But it is also FASCINATING. I seriously wanted to know how different families eat.

Those of that that have read my blog for a few years know that I tend to swing back and forth from granola mom to feed them whatever they will eat mom. I finally gained enough confidence in my mothering to know that an Oreo will not kill them as long as they are not eating Oreos every day of the week. There really is no danger of them eating Oreos every day of the week because as soon as we buy the package of Oreos I consume them. If I am competely honest then I must tell you that I consume them in one sitting.

Anyway.

We have finally found that happy medium where I feel good about what my children eat. This may sound weird to ya'll, but bear with me. For instance, almost every morning we have eggs, whole wheat toast with honey, an orange, and milk to drink. If the kids do not want this they can have a bowl of cheerios with a piece of fruit. On the weekends we have a pancake morning on Saturday or Sunday. I don't stress about the butter and syrup on the pancakes because I know that it is a treat, not a every day thing. I try hard to find that balance in feeding them healthfully, but also not depriving them so that they gorge themselves when they are out of the house. I don't want to deny them the pleasure of eating good food. At the same time, I want to teach them to eat healthy.

For lunch I make grilled chicken salads, chicken salad on whole wheat (made with light mayo and chicken breasts), tuna salad on whole wheat, turkey on whole wheat, ect... For sides we eat yogurt and fruit instead of chips. Do they ever eat chips? Of course. I do buy pretzels, microwave popcorn, or potato chips and they can have them once or twice a week. They would rather have fruit at this point in life and unless they request chips, they don't get them! Clay and I are also not big chip fans so the bag usually goes stale first. Unless I am pregnant and then I consume massive quantities of Lays. This is probably why I also gain massive amounts of weight. That is a whole other post. I also occasionally buy chicken nuggets and Easy Mac. I then feel excessively guilty and worry about it all day. Seriously, I am that weird.

For snacks we eat fruit, string cheese, applesauce, nuts, or granola bars. I make cookies with yogurt instead of butter every now and then. Oh, and the pudding. My kids love pudding and Jello. Not healthy but I let them have it.

Dinner is more of a struggle because I try to shop frugally and let's face it-healthy and cheap doesn't go together. Our favorite meals are pot roast with potatoes and carrots, lasagna with garlic bread, chicken spaghetti, and chicken enchiladas. Not exactly healthy! I do try to substitute healthy ingredients like 2% cheese and low sodium products. I use lean cuts of meat, light butter (and then use it sparingly), whole wheat or fortified noodles (except when it changes the dish dramatically). I also only serve one or two heavy meals a week. The rest of the week we eat simpler-like chicken with roasted vegetables. It is not perfect, but
at least I am no longer obsessing over healthy cookbooks, how to feed your children books, and googling calorie contents.

And Ben and Jerry's? I eat that about every week. Not healthy AT ALL. That ice cream is seriously the reason I go running!

Playtime

2010-02-03T06:39:00.000-08:00

We are feeling much better.

Oh, the vanity...

2010-02-03T06:06:00.000-08:00

I dyed my hair two weeks ago. In the throes of RSV, I completely forgot to mention it. My lightish brown hair is now a deep chocolate brown with some red highlights thrown in. Everyone says they love it-except Laura Grace. Every morning she greets me with, "Why did you dye your hair black?"

I cannot convince her it is not black!

I am also struggling with something else. It is a deep, deep issue that had me awake last night.

Should I visit the tanning bed?

I know, I know, I am being shallow. Of all the things I could post about, this isn't exactly the most important. After all, I have adorable three year olds declaring that they are never wearing pants with buttons again. I am not sure why, but it was pretty cute to see him checking his pants out this morning.

However, it is my skin I need to talk about. The closer I get to thirty, the more tiny lines I see on my face. The idea of aging does not bother me-it is my skin looking even older when I am still young! I have very fair skin but tan easily and I am thinking that spending last summer in the pool without one drop of sunscreen was not the best idea. True, I had a glorious tan. But when the tan faded to my winter white...yikes.

I still find myself struggling with the question-to tan or not to tan. I have only been to the tanning bed twice in my life. Both times I layed in the bed, thinking to myself that this was what being in a coffin must be like...

But now that I am facing wearing a bridesmaid dress in four weeks and going to the beach in eight weeks, the idea of my winter whiteness is slightly appalling.

And so, there I go. Back and forth and back and forth until I don't know what to do. So, yeah. I am rather shallow this morning.

Won't You Read To Me Wednesday

2010-02-03T04:51:00.000-08:00

The book I am choosing this week is The Secret Garden. This is one of my favorite books of all time. I read it in first grade and reread it every year since then. There is something magical about the book that never fails to grab my imagination. This is how I will always remember the book...

I am currently reading it out loud to Laura Grace. She could read it by herself but I am enjoying being a part of it :) It is something that I want to experience with her and I want to make sure she fully understands some of the words due to the dialect used. Layton begins the reading session just as enthralled, but after ten or so minutes abandones the story for his cars. Will just enjoys cuddling with all of us!

Dear Turbo Tax

2010-02-02T16:47:00.000-08:00

You broke me.

I sat in front of my computer, so sure that I could do it. After all, you promised to walk me through it. You even promised me a lovely assistant named Tina who would be there every step of the way.

You lied.

Tina says that she does not understand my questions, she needs me to use only one sentence please, and she needs me to be more specific in that one sentence. I told Tina she was making me crazy and she told me that there was no record found to help me with that one. Thanks, Tina.

Then I tried Live Help. Those chat rooms were full of people just as lost as me. We all agreed that we couldn't stand Tina and bemoaned that we really thought we could pretend to be acountants. Then we bashed our current state of government and the chat room suddenly closed. I am thinking it was a conspiracy.

So then I contemplated having a "tax expert" call me. I decided that the thirty dollar charge for each twenty minutes would be well worth avoiding an audit. After all, an audit would probably ruin us because I accidentally threw away all financial records from the past several years. I was nesting.

However, after reading the fine print that the "expert" might not be able to answer my questions and realizing that these experts might all be like Tina, I decided to go it alone. I decided that surely all the jargon was commen sense. I mean, sure I don't know if our dividend income was qualified or ordinal-or maybe that was original? Or ordinary? I don't know.

After spending all day cleaning house, holding a fussy baby, all while dashing back and forth from to Turbo Tax, I gave up. It won. I called an accountant and just like that our taxes were done. In twenty minutes. So. Turbo Tax, I hate you.

Sincerely,

Me.

Featuring...

2010-02-01T07:28:00.000-08:00

This week, I am featuring Therese at Musings of a Mom. She has four children, three of them being boys! Her newest baby, Alexandra, is Will's age and it is fun to see little Alex get bigger along with Will. I love Therese's blog because she is not afraid to be honest, to show "real life", and to admit when things are hard because after all, she is a mom to four! She is also encouraging, sweet, and becoming a good "bloggy" friend! Go check her out!

1) When did you start blogging?
I started blogging kind of on a whim in December of 2007. I was just looking for a way to write down things I was musing about while home with my kids. I never realized that I would be read by other people andÂ make friends literally all over the world. I was looking for an outlet, and I found a wonderful blogging community. We really lift each other up when we are low, and celebrate the little and big things in life.
2) What is the purpose of your blog? What do you want people to come away knowing about you?
As I alluded to, part of the purpose of my blog is to write about the things I think of when I am at home with the kids. I write about education, about parenting, about my faith. I also share some of the goings on in my childrens' lives. Because I feel like I have a good circle of friends, we all love to be able to share pictures, recipes, crafts, etc as well. I think I want people to see that I am trying to be a good Mom and a woman of faith, but that I struggle like everyone else does.
3) Is there anything you would change about your blog?
Not really. I think that I am a part of the blogging circle that I am because of who I am and what my blog is like. If it were different, I might not be nurturing the same kinds of relationships.
4) Tell us, in a nutshell, about yourself.
I am an almost 40 (ooh, did I admit that?) mom to 3 boys and a girl. I come from a big Italian, Catholic family. My youngest is the 26th grandchild on my side of the family. I love my faith, and I love big families!
Before children, I taught the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. This was my first foray into the realm of public education. I was very disallusioned and will not return to that setting should I ever go back to full-time teaching. For now, I stay-at-home with my children and I teach online in the evenings when my hubby is home.
5) What are your favorite blogs?
Yours, of course, Christy! Seriously, I have a long list of blogs on my sidebar, and any of them are a great read, but I would have to include: Yes, they are all mine; Lord, Make me a Saint; Footprints Diary; Be Not Afraid; Aussie Coffee Shop; Totus Tuus Family; So...this is the Road I am Traveling On; CanDarBry Garden; It's a Dog and Pony Show; Diapers and Deadlines.