staying home and staying sane

Tornados in February!

2009-02-10T18:46:00.000-08:00

We had torrential rains and tornadoes all over Edmond today. I was busy crafting Valentine gifts and party favors. I jumped in the shower and off to pick up the kids at school. When I pulled out of the drive I heard the sirens going off! So I ran to school and the kids were all in the basement. We drove quickly to Renae's. It was closer to school than my house and the new was saying to stay away from the Turnpike (right down the street from us). Renae was not home, but had left the door open. So we ran in and hid out in the laundry room with no lights on!

The Valentine party was cancelled, obviously. To be rescheduled.......

I am going to add, no tornadoes to my good list for Houston!

So we are safe. Kids are asleep and I am finishing decorating the party hats for Sophia's party on Friday night.

Let the travelling end already....

2009-02-06T18:31:00.000-08:00

So the road trip was a no go. Bryce was sick last night and Renae was nervous about going out of town. So we worked out at the YMCA then had a picnic at the park. It was sooo windy it was miserable. That is what you get around here, 70 degrees and tornadic winds!

Sophia was cranky tired after the park. She slept from 1:00 to 4:00 and Garrett went to the Dog park with Papa and Marley and Mia (the new puppies). So I watched Oprah reruns and folded laundry.

We headed to the store for necessities. Then had pizza and movie night. We watched Anastasia, kind of scary for the kids. They lost interest and went crazy and then went to bed!

Josh's flight was delayed 2 hours. So he won't be home until who knows when. I am so tired of this travelling, as I am sure he is too. This will be 4 years he has been travelling every week. So Houston will be great, because no travel except a few times a year for training. YAY! It is exhausting for me to have days without a second parent home. It makes me aware of how important it is for children to have two parents. Two people loving, caring, disciplining, praising, playing. It takes two! I also know how hard it is for Josh to miss days with the kids and miss all the little precious happenings of the day. That is a positive of the move. I will add that to my short list!

To let you know how tired I am....I just put Sophia to bed with the light on in her room!

A new day

2009-02-05T20:06:00.000-08:00

Okay. So I am feeling better today. Josh was better and went to Houston :( But at least he is not sick any more. And both kids went to school. So I worked out for an hour, then came home and cleaned, folded laundry and made calls about preschools. Then I quickly showered (how fast my day goes) and ran to school to pick up kids. Then we got Garrett's hair cut, went to Hobby Lobby for birthday supplies and to Toys R Us for a gift. We made it home just in time for dinner and then my parents came over to watch the kids so I could go to a pampered chef party. I am pooped, why and I on the computer?

The kids had a play-doh party with Gran and Papa. They are really into play-doh these days. So I spread a disposable tablecloth on the table and let them at it. Then apparently Garrett whacked Sophia in the face with a washcloth in the bath! A tragedy by all accounts, because Gran made him get out of the tub and Sophia cried a bit. I am really not sure where that came from because he typically is pretty sweet to her. Maybe pay back for all the toys she hits him with!

Pampered chef party was fun, especially all the yummy food, thank you Christina. I ordered some new baking sheets and some oh so necessary kitchen gadgets. If you know me, you know I LOVE kitchen gadgets. Happy Valentines to me!

Tomorrow is Road Trip with Renae and the kids. This has been a tradition since the inception of our friendship, so we have to take one final trip before the move. We are heading to Enid, to Leonardo's Castle, this is a great indoor/outdoor educational play place... will be fun.

Now I must rest......

19 days to go...

2009-02-04T18:21:00.000-08:00

19 days until we leave for Katy, Texas. I really quite down at this point, not necessarily from the move alone....but everyone is sick! Last week we were in because of the weather, Sunday Sophia caught a stomach bug, Tuesday night Josh got the bug and now Garrett is acting suspicious. The weather and all the bugs are making me crazy. I have done a million loads of laundry; because I refuse to move dirty clothes and my family keeps dirtying them. I have cooked and cooked and cooked, because we couldn't go out with the weather and now with all the sickies. I had great plans of a major social month in February and now!

Well at least everyone is getting the illness out of the way before the big move and Sophia's birthday party!

I am off to fold laundry...and watch American Idol.

New House

2009-02-03T19:13:00.000-08:00

We are closing on our new house on February 24th! I am excited about the new house and this point and not getting excited about much else, except maybe the weather! I am posting pics of the new house.... it seems to be easier to post on here than to load on the e-mail! The photos of the inside did not tuen out to great so I will take more when we move in. Enjoy and I will keep everyone updated on the move!

Picture of the kiddos

2009-01-29T06:33:00.001-08:00

Here are a few pics from December and January.

New matching Christmas robes!

Garrett's First Basketball game

Garrett eating at Gran and Papa's on Christmas eve.

Picture of Sophia for her birthday invite.

It's official

2009-01-28T17:49:00.000-08:00

We have officially Sold our house in Edmond, Oklahoma and have purchased a home in Katy, Texas. Well, we have contract pending on them both. I am so very sad to leave all of our friends and family here, but I do feel like this is good timing. We made it through the holidays and are having Sophia's Birthday here and then the move.

I am trying not to think about all the people we are going to miss here. When I do, it becomes overwhelming to me and I well up. Really overwhelming. Our lives have changed so much since we moved from Tulsa to Edmond. We moved close to family, I had Sophia, quit work, we met the most amazing group of friends and have made so many family memories. I really never thought my life would be this great here, but it has become very special. I feel so supported here and so at home that I cannot imagine starting over. But we have decided to embark on this adventure, by choice. So I have to embrace the unknown and uncertain.

Christmas Cheer and almost the New Year!

2008-12-29T18:54:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas Holiday has been great. Josh has been in town now for a weekend half. Which is bliss for me. I love having him home every day!

We celebrated Christmas eve at my parents with my niece and Stephanie. The kids wore the pajamas most of the night, after I got pictures in their "Christmas Outfits". Gran and Papa fixed special chicken N' Dumplings for the kids and we had Prime Rib, YUMMY! We opened gifts and Sophia became deliriously tired. It was so funny she was a little Christmas zombie going from toy to toy! Garrett opened all of his gifts so fast, that he spent the rest of the time helping everyone else open.

We can home after the Eve and put the kids to bed. Then Josh and I assembled and set up all the Santa gift on the fireplace. Garrett woke up bright and early and was so excited to see all his toys. We let home go ahead and start opening and let Sophia sleep longer, since we had gone to bed so late. She soon awake from the noise of Garrett's roaring dinosaur. Sophia found her new baby and then refused to open or have any interest an any other gifts. She has been diapering, giving bottles and putting babies night night ever since.

We then cooked a huge Turkey dinner with my parents and Josh would say I dirtied every dish in the kitchen. Josh cleaned up the dishes, yay!

Friday morning we headed to Coalgate for more Holiday fun. We celebrated with Josh's family. Eating more and opening gifts with them. We also decorated cookies and made plaster molds of the kids hands. Sophia had her cousin Kaylee to play babies with and Garrett fished with his cousins.

Saturday night we rushed home dropped the kids with my parents and headed out to dinner with Tim and Allison (Josh's best friend and wife). We then proceeded to the bar until 2:00 am. I was not used to the late night and slept until 11:00 on Sunday!

Josh has to work Mon and Tues this week. So it seems like life as usual, but I am looking forward to the New Year and the next 5 days of family time. I am dreading getting back into this travelling routine and I know Josh is too. So everyone pray for the sale of our home soon!

I will post holiday pics soon!

2008-12-18T17:45:00.000-08:00

So I certainly can make no more promises regarding the blog. But will post oh whenever!

The last few months have been busy as usual, as I am sure for all of us during this holiday season. My holidays has been filled with lists and more lists of things to do, buy or accomplish. I am very glad that Christmas is upon us, but I know I will feel a little depressed when the new year arrives. It seems the calm after the storm leaves me a little deflated. But I am going to set some GOALS for the year and maybe that will leave me with a focus.

The kids are doing well. Garrett is getting over pneumonia. That was a scary week last week, I have never seen him that sick before. But as quickly as it hit, just as quickly he got over it. Youth conquers all.

We had Garrett's Christmas party at school today. He always loves for us to come to his class, so he can share his friends, teachers and activities with us. He just loves school and begs to go. I hope that spark lasts. He is such a precious soul.

Sophia is talking so much. She is learning Christmas carols and sings them over and over. She had identified Santa and is no longer terrified by him, but is not overjoyed to see him either. she drags the wrapped gifts around the house but I am sure has no idea there is anything an them. She is loving the Christmas treats and candy, of course.

We are planning a traditional Christmas eve at my parents' and then staying home all day Christmas day to watch the kids play with their gifts. Then off to have Christmas with Josh's family on Friday. Josh will be home for 2 1/2 weeks with no travelling. So I plan to take full advantage of the company and help!

I hope every one is well and has a wonderful Christmas! Here are some new pics to enjoy!

Love you all and Merry Christmas.

2008-11-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

Okay Okay. I was trying to be better at posting and most of you are probably giving up on me. October was crazy. No way to get around it. We had birthday parties, Halloween parties, pumpkin patches, costume photos, family photos, soccer games every weekend and endless miles of running.

The superhero birthday party was awesome. Garrett had a great time. Batman was the hit of the party! Garrett got so many new toys, I still don't think we have played with them all yet.

Halloween was awesome. The kids were so cute in their costumes and Sophia love to "tik -o -pete". She said it over and over again!

Running is still going. I made it up to 15 miles but am now suffering a minor set back with a left knee injury. I go in to the doctor tomorrow. Hopefully I can get this licked ASAP. I have put so much time and energy into preparing for the marathon, that I just HAVE to complete it.

The move is still going. The house is still for sale and Josh is still travelling half the week. That is kind of a drag.

Now on to happier topics

Garrett is elated to be 4. He asks me almost everyday if he is still 4. And he is really starting to recognize his letters and is learning to write his name. He sees letters in signs and says that letter is in my name. He has gotten really "smart" since turning 4 and thinks he knows the answer to most everything.

Sophia is talking up a storm she will try to say anything and is 99% of the time successful. If she can't come up with the word she just babbles on and on, or and Josh and I say "she is talking Chinese!"

I will post October pics and promise to keep blogging.

I love you all.

As previously indicated....

2008-10-02T19:09:00.000-07:00

this week has been crazy. Errands and more errands. But I am loving having the kids in Preschool and MDO, because I can quickly run my errands. Then when they are home we can PLAY! I am not worried about other things. Monday we walked to the park and played in the back yard and ate lunch outside. We never even got in the car all day or watched T.V., we just played. Then Wednesday, we went to gymnastics in the morning and then ate lunch out together. Which, by the way, went extremely well, all by myself with two. Then after school we headed to the zoo. It has been a busy, but very productive week. I feel when my time is blocked like this I get so much more done and more fun and playtime.

Sophia has been a horse this week. She is eating everything in sight. Trying all things on her plate and chowing on snacks and meals. Her teachers at school said she pooped 3 times today, then she pooped at home. TMI! She must be growing. Because she normally eats like a bird.

Garrett has been gearing up for the big party! We have had a day by day countdown. I think tomorrow we are going to have lunch, his choice. I really cannot believe he is already 4. I made some posters for his party with pictures of the last 4 years. It is amazing how he has changed and how fast it has gone. Even looking at last year he looks so much more like a boy than a baby. He is growing up to be such a sweetie too, he has a good heart and tons of energy. His innocence and joy for life is amazing to me. I love you, Buddy!

2008-09-28T13:39:00.000-07:00

Girls' Night Out on Thursday was so fun and relaxing. Me and my playgroup mommies went to Opus Prime Steakhouse. Appetizers, wine, steak and dessert, yum, yum! The best part was that thanks to Rusty Duncan and his gift certificates we only paid for the tip! We then watched Grey's Anatomy and stayed up chatting until 1:00. I love those girls and don't want to think about being away in Houston and missing those moments. It makes me sad.

Friday, I was very tired from staying up late. I took the kids out running errand all morning. I bought Sophia her costume...The Organic Banana from Pottery Barn Kids. It is so cute and was on sale. Garrett is going to be a Gorilla so I thought the banana would be perfect. BUT, she hates it, will not look at it, will not wear it, and freaks out at the sight of it! So I think I will be returning it and save myself the grief. Any other ideas? I think I may try to find a Jane of the Jungle costume or construct one? My other options would be some kinds of princess, fairy, butterfly or the like? Apparently she is not into produce. I love you Sophia, but isn't to early to start fighting me on what you wear?

My great friends Keri and Scott came in Friday night and spent the night. We had lots of fun catching up with them. We took them to Garrett's Soccer game on Saturday morning, which for some reason was more a tackle football game than anything. Hunter scored tons of goals and Garrett tackled, laughed and acted generally silly as usual. But a good time was had by all. Gran supplied suckers for all the kids, so I think that made it even more fun.

Saturday afternoon was R & R and cleaning up the house for the Open House today.

I made 7 miles on this mornings run, so I am beginning to think that the 9.3 was not a fluke. But my mileage increases to 12 miles next Sunday! Scary. If I can make it next weekend I am going to register for the Route 66 1/2 Marathon in November.

I have a feeling this week is going to be crazy busy with last minute party stuff to do. Also Josh is gone to Houston a couple days. I am going to go to bed early tonight and rest up for the week ahead.

Batman is confirmed

2008-09-25T14:08:00.000-07:00

I spoke with Batman yesterday evening and he has confirmed an appearance for the party. He will be there around 6:00 and is making balloon animals and providing activity books for the kids. Garrett will be so surprised.

Next week is errand week with all the last minute party details. So I may have Garrett go to school all day Tuesday and Thursday to give me a bit more time to get stuff done. I still need to order balloons, pizza, assemble favors, make posters and go to Sams for drinks and pinata candy. So two days maybe necessary.

Sophia went to Mom's day out today and has been deemed one of the head drama queens. Not surprised about that, but she does seem to be having a great time with the other kids. This morning she barreled out to the car and was ready to go, then she ran in the building, then fake cried when I handed her over to the teacher. So it is a love hate relationship, but more love now!

Garrett announced today that he has a girlfriend at school. He could not remember her name but she played Power Rangers with him today. I told him that was an excellent quality in a young woman, for her to take interest in his interests.

I am off to prepare the kids for Garrett's soccer practice, then I am off to Mom's Night Out. Yay!

On the upswing

2008-09-24T11:09:00.000-07:00

I think we may be on the upswing. Garrett is over is cold and both kids slept like champs last night. I also went to bed early and got some good sleep. I think my cold/stuffy nose is improving. I am just sitting here trying to decide if I should run today or give it one more day and run Thursday Friday (I usually take Fridays off).

Garrett is at school and Sophia is sleeping. Ah quiet time.

Nothing really exciting is happening here. I think Sophia is back on her eating strike due to a very large bottom molar erupting! She has been a little cranky and not too interested in food.

Garrett's party invites went out and he is getting increasingly more excited. I told him that I sent an invite to Batman and that he may make an appearance if he is not saving the world. Yes, I will (am trying) deliver on this...A friend of Tiffany and Karl is a party entertainer and he just so happens to do superheros. I spoke with him earlier and he is going to call me back to let me know if he is available that night. I certainly hope so, since Garrett is depending on it. If not, dada will have to get a very big Batman costume!

I have a list of things to accomplish for the party, but they will likely get done next week while the kids are in school.

I am off to enjoy the quiet and tackle this weeks list of to dos.

Running on Empty

2008-09-22T09:03:00.001-07:00

Garrett in Coalgate

Sophia at the Party

Garrett eating cake

Gran and Garrett at the Lakeside Grill

Sophia in her boots at the Lake

Garrett playing soccer

Sophia enjoying the game

Our weekend was very busy! Friday night we went to dinner with Gran and Papa. We went to Lakeside Grill. It was so nice, The weather was awesome and the kids loved watching the boats and listening to the band.

Saturday morning, I ran my first official "race". It was a 5K benefiting Faithworks. I ran it in 28minutes, which was personal best. It was motivating.

After that, we had soccer game at noon. Garrett had a pretty good game. No goals but some good blocks. He wasn't feeling great. He woke up with a raspy voice and was not at full energy for the game. Post-game, we came home for naps. Then to the birthday party. Which was really fun. Tiffany out did herself on the decorations, food and entertainment for the kids and everyone had a great time. Sophia really loved the cardboard box cars and the race track. Garrett loved the Moon Bounce. I have attached some pics of the kids from the party.

Sunday morning, came early. 5:45 am, I ran 9.3 miles! I couldn't believe I made it.

Then on to Coalgate. We went to visit Grandma and Grandpa. Sophia and Garrett had lot's of fun. Sophia was in a great mood, upon arrival. But then woke up in a sour mood after her nap. But all in all had lots of fun. I think her bottom left molar was bothering her. It was very swollen and you can see the crown of her tooth coming through. She chewed and drooled all the way home. Garrett played with cousin Trey all day. They fished, hunted for Turkeys and rigged up a bucket and pully system on the treehouse. They were great playmates all day. The day was too short.

So today Garrett's raspy voice persisted and he had a fever and cough this morning. He seems to be feeling a little better this afternoon. But we are lying low today.

The weekend was awesome but tiresome. Josh is in Houston for 3 days :( I am going to try to get reorganized for the upcoming birthday party and rested for the week to come.

Evacuation

2008-09-18T18:34:00.001-07:00

Today the kids and I had a morning out. We have a lady helping us clean every other week. This is to relieve me of some cleaning duties. With the house on the market it is crazy trying to keep up with all the housework and the kids; leaving the house put together every time we walk out the door.

So we evacuated the premises to let Patty clean. We visited with Gran and Papa and then went to lunch with Daddy. We ate at Olive Garden, because I love the soup and salad. The kids lapped up the mac and cheese. I think Sophia is finally back to eating again. She was on an eating strike for some time and now her appetite has picked up this week. She also ate a ton of Meatloaf last night and hers and Garrett's yogurt for breakfast.

After lunch we hit Target to get the snack for the soccer game tomorrow. We settled on Ritz peanut butter crackers, little oreos and Batman fruit rollups. With all the Halloween mini packs Garrett had too many choices. We also left with the Pooh Halloween Heffalump Movie. I figured they needed a festive Halloween movie, since I more than likely will not be getting the Halloween decor out this year. Too much to dust and clutters up the house for showing purposes.

The weekend is going to be busy. Sat. Run at 8:00, Soccer game at noon and a birthday party at 5:00. Then on Sunday to visit Grandma and Grandpa in Coalgate.

Garrett is getting very excited about his birthday (Oct. 4th). He is currently doing some pre-shopping with Gran, while Sophia naps. He is going to visually show her his ever growing list of toys he wants. We also downloaded some Superhero music on the Ipod and have been jamming to these in the car for a few days. 14 days to countdown until the Superhero Extravaganza.

Yes it has been 2.5 months

2008-09-18T18:34:00.000-07:00

Garrett Just after his FIRST GOAL!

Garrett waiting for a friend at the State Fair

Sophia at the State Fair (she loved the petting zoo)

Sophia cheering Bubba on at his first soccer game this season

Garrett going to Preschool

Dad and Garrett in Hot Springs

Sophia in Enid

I know, I know...it has been 2 1/2 months since my last blog. Bad bad blogger. But I reunited with my great friend Sarah last week and she inspired me to return.

The summer is now over and school has begun. Yeah! Garrett started Preschool and Sophia is going to Mother's Day out two days a week. I have to say it is great. Sophia is adjusting better than expected and Garrett gets in the car every day and says how much fun he has had. It also allows me to spend half the day Tuesday with just Garrett. We have mommy and Garrett time. We spent last Tuesday picking out birthday gifts, then to the park and then lunch at City Bites (Garrett's Favorite). I am also getting some much needed mommy time. My errands get done in half the time and I can take long runs outdoors!

And if you have not heard... we are moving to Houston. Another reason why I thought the blog would be a good place to keep everyone updated on the move status and the kids. At this point we have our house listed, Josh is going to Houston 3 days a week, we have no idea where we are going to live and I am proceeding with life as usual here.

So I will be a better blogger and try to keep my page updated. Here are a few new pics of the kids.

Chocolate Sparklers

2008-07-15T06:35:00.001-07:00

Halfway through July! I can't believe how fast our summer is going.

The kids are having a great summer. Garrett is becoming such a great swimmer and is enjoying T-ball. He has two more weeks of school and two more weeks of swimming, then we are pretty much done for the summer with scheduled activities. We have a trip planned with another family in August, so that is something to look forward to.

Sophia is enjoying the pool. She likes to get in and out, in and out. And loves to do the "airplane" on her belly in the water. She is so tan, it is hilarious. She is the Tropicana baby. Garrett and are are still white and have had just as much sun. She's got her daddies' tan genes.

Today Garrett has school and then on to Gymboree camp. I think I will try to put Sophia down for a nap early, then walk the mall while he has camp. My back is really sore for some reason. Renae and I took an 11 mile walk on Sunday morning and ever since my low back has been so sore. I am not sure if it was the walk or boot camp last week, but it feels more like a muscle pain. I went to Yoga last night thinking that might stretch it out, and it feels slightly better.

Here are some new pics enjoy! The kids are eating the chocolate "sparklers" that Garrett and I made for the 4th of July!

Summer Fun

2008-06-30T20:05:00.000-07:00

Garrett playing T-ball and Sophia watching.

We have had a very busy summer so far. Josh and I took our trip to Cabo. Which was fabulous and so relaxing. It is amazing what kind of renewed energy a few days away can do for your parenting skills.

Since returning we have been so busy. Garrett is taking swimming. He has two, two-week sessions this summer. He is also going to VBS 2 days a week. We also have been going to White Water and Frontier City quite a bit. We have done alot of swimming. Garrett is getting so good. He can really maneuver in his arm floaties and is loving swim lessons. They are working on water in the face, blowing bubbles and general safety and comfort in the water.

Garrett is also in T-ball. We have had two games and he is really having fun. We debated on keeping this activity, but he is having a good time and meeting some new friends on the team.

Poor Sophia just tags along to all big bubba's activities; but does not seem to mind. We walk the park and play on the playground while Garrett has swimming and T-ball. She is also enjoying the water this summer. She loves to swim in Gran and Papa's pool and enjoyed her one visit to White Water.

Sophia's vocabulary is exploding. It seems she learns a few new words every week and finds one and says it over and over and over again. she is very good at following directions, like "get your shoes", "put the baby in the basket", " hug bubba" etc... So she is understanding so much more and in turn seems less frustrated with communicating. She is so cute!

In addition to running to activities and I am continuing my running. I have not missed a workout and I am up to 15 to 20 miles per week. I bought a new pair of shoes and since have had some knee problems. So I am trying to get that figured out. But I am determined to continue.

I hope everyone has a fun 4th of July!

Run

2008-05-29T06:50:00.001-07:00

A few pics of the kids in the yard! Garrett with a mouthful fo dirt. I just can't fugure out the fascination with putting dirt on his body. It must be a boy thing.

I did it! I ran 1.5 miles on Tuesday and 3 full miles yesterday. I cannot believe it myself. I am not a runner and have never been. I have to run another 1.5 miles today and then Sunday will be a long outdoor 3 mile run. I am scared that running on the treadmill will be easier than outside with hills, weather etc. But I am NOT giving up. I am sore today. I am going to have to stretch really well.

WIsh me luck with the running. I will also post more photos later. I have several still on my camera that I need to off load.

Garrett's Dentist Appointment

2008-05-28T07:09:00.001-07:00

First, we had a great Memorial Day weekend. We went swimming on Saturday at my parents and then to a Birthday Party on Sunday, and then swimming again ALL DAY Monday. Garrett is getting really good at swimming with just his floaties. He can kick and navigate around the pool all by himself. I think after swimming lessons this summer he will be light years ahead of where he was last year.

Yesterday, Garrett had his second dentist appointment. The first one was 6 months ago and did not go well at all. I don't even think we can really count it as his first. So we will call yesterday his first appointment. I took him to my dentist last time and he screamed and refused to open his mouth. So this time I called a pediatric dentist. The office was a kids paradise. Toys, T.V.'s playing Dora, stickers, treasure chest and all kinds of fun character posters.

When they called his name he kind of hung back behind me, and I was thinking, "here we go". But then he remembered that I had told him the night before that the dentist is our friend and that she will love to hear about your friends and all the fun things you like to do. So he began nervous chatter with the hygienist. He told her all of his friends names and that he likes to swim and that he was going to get a new flashlight if he was a good boy at the dentist. When the hygienist appeared very interested and told him he was "awesome" about 400 times, I think that put him at ease. It was amazing, I have never seen my adorable, energetic son sit so still for so long. He let the hygienist take 6 X-rays and never moved. Then we moved on to "THE CHAIR" and he laid back and let her polish, floss, brush and fluoridate (is this a word?) every little tooth in his head. It was a VERY proud moment for me. Then we left with a T-shirt, two stickers, a flying squirrel from the treasure chest, a heffalump toothbrush and a buzz lightyear flosser. No wonder he loved that place with all that loot!

This was a happy and a little sad moment for me. He is growing up so fast before my eyes and each day is just not long enough. Garrett is a precious little soul and I am so blessed to have him as my son. I love you G-man!

So with that he got his new flashlight and had a sleepover last night with Bryce (his BFF). It was our anniversary yesterday, so Josh and I went to dinner while the kids had sleepovers (Sophia with Gran and Papa). It was a great day!

Also, I have started a new challenge. I am one day in to training for a marathon. Keep in mind I have NEVER been a runner. But I have joined forces with several other moms to run to the Dallas Marathon on December 14th. So yesterday my first run was 1.5 miles. I did this on the treadmill while the kids slept. And I ran the whole time, never stopped. I was very proud of myself, granted I have been doing little to no cardio lately. Today is the 3 mile. Wish me luck.

Lazy Blogger

2008-05-20T06:49:00.000-07:00

I am not going to feel guilty about slacking on my blogging! Okay so it has been several weeks since my last blog. But we have been busy I promise. The kids and I, along with Gran and Papa went to San Antonio last week for four days to visit my niece, Liv and Aunt Stephanie. Garrett had a great time visiting Liv and it was so nice to see then both. BUT Sophia was miserable. Not only is she a terrible homebody, but she was sick and FUSSY FUSSY FUSSY. So needless to say it was stressful. But we are home now and she is happy and all is back to normal.

Garrett has one day left of school and does not start summer MDO until June 10th. So the next few weeks I am going to have to kick it in high gear with some activities. I have also decided to forgo Gymboree for now to save $50 bucks a month. I am planning several trips to the zoo, hitting all area parks, breaking in our Frontier City/Whitewater Pass and possibly some road trips (if I can talk Renae into it). Okay so maybe that is all aggressive, since we leave for Cabo in 2 weeks.

2 weeks! My diet was on a hiatus during the San Antonio trip so I have only 2 weeks and 2 days to go for that last minute few pounds so I can put on a swimsuit. Scary. Josh got me a gift certificate to Victoria's Secret for my birthday and I have been holding on to it to use for the trip. So I logged on to the website in search of a swimsuit. Holy Moly. I just think at this point I may be verging on ridiculous putting any one of those suits on. I don't want to start embarrassing my children this early in life. So maybe I will stick with the one piece I wore last year and spend my gift card on new cotton underwear or jammies.

Sophia has two new words this week, "this" and "juice". Anything she wants is "this" and any kinds of liquid she wants to drink is "juice". Funny thing is she hates juice and only drinks water and milk. It is really cute. She is really starting to communicate her needs/wants in other ways than screaming and crying.

So today, after Sophia's nap, we are going to get Garrett's haircut, go to the store, eat lunch, nap and then playgroup is coming over at 3:00.

Four good days, minus one meal

2008-05-04T18:21:00.001-07:00

So after my blog of frustration on Thursday morning, the children and I ventured off to the zoo on our own. Renae was not up for the Zoo and the other mommas and kids we know have MDO on Thursdays. Garrett was set on going to the zoo so we packed a lunch and headed out. I was leery after our previous rough days, but my mood was low and I figured a trip out of the house would do us all well.

Garrett and I packed lunched while Sophia took her a.m. nap. Garrett was very helpful. He made PB& J for him and Sophia. He packed marshmallows, grapes, Cheetos, juice, water and pudding. He likes the zipper baggies, because he can zip and unzip the top with ease. He was very cooperative and I was hopeful.

Sophia woke from her nap. We slathered everyone in sunscreen and off we went. We pulled up to the zoo parking lot and I almost turned around. It must have been field trip day. The parking lot was packed. But I did not want to crush Garrett, after his excitement about the picnic. So told him that the zoo was very busy and that he must stay right by me the whole time. Shockingly, he replied, " I am going to be a good boy today, mom, I am going stay right by you and do everything you tell me to do." Hallelujah, hallelujah....are my efforts working? Is something sinking in? Or could he sense that I was at my end and that at any moment I could load up and the zoo trip would be forgotten? Whatever it was, I was pleased and again, hopeful.

So the afternoon at the zoo was great. I got exercise, we raced through the backside of the zoo (literally) jogging. Then played on the playground. Sophia loved the playground. They have an area that has rubber flooring. So she can walk well with no fear of injury when she falls. We ate our picnic and when it was time to depart, I gave the five minute warning, the two minute warning and Garrett waved goodbye to his new playground friend and we were off. Then the magic, we arrived home for a 2 hour nap (both kids!).

We then went to the soccer ice cream party and out to dinner with may parents. Good day!

Friday we went to the Edmond Arts Festival with our playgroup. Garrett had a great time. Sophia, was tired and would not eat anything there. She didn't perk up until she got to watch bubba on the pony ride. But nonetheless, two hour naps for all when we arrived home.
That evening, Josh and I cooked out and we ate outside with the kids and then went to BB&B to find an outdoor umbrella.

Saturday, Garrett had a soccer game. Let's just day his focus was not like it was last week. After soccer we went to eat at Red Robin. Garrett was at his worst. He would NOT sit still in the chair. Was not eating and proceeded to almost choke himself with the balloon string. He was taken to the bathroom twice. Spanked once and then taken outside for a "chat" with Daddy. So needless to say, thank you mom and dad for taking the kids for 3 hours so Josh and I could escape to a movie.

Oh a movie. It was so relaxing. We walked around the mall for a few minutes then went to see "21". It was a pretty good movie. Three hours of not having to say sit down or quiet, or change a diaper. It is the little things these days provide a little escape from the ordinary. And the best part, the kids were wiped out after we picked then up. They went to bed early and we watched another movie (with some wine) at home. Yay!

Today was a very good day. I love family days; where we spend all day just us hanging out. We did some grocery shopping, Josh did a little yard work. Then we went to some open houses in Oakdale, a area we are thinking about moving to in the distant future. Then we went back to the zoo. Waked for 2 1/2 hours there and came home and grilled out. The weather today was perfect. 70's with no stinking wind.

I love my husband and my kiddos and I am so grateful for the everyday moments with them. Cooking in the backyard, eating ice cream at the mini picnic table, playing at the zoo, catching a movie with my handsome hubby, pizza night. I am so very lucky for these 3 people in my life and especially for my husband who is just down right a wonderful man and father.

I hope I am not being annoyingly perky, but I have had four great days, minus Red Robin!

Naps and fits!

2008-05-01T07:51:00.000-07:00

It seems that both of my kids are going through some sleep patter changes and behavioral milestones (we will call then) at the same time.....

Garrett is growing out of his daily nap. He has not napped at school all week and did not nap at home on Tuesday. He really doesn't need a nap unless he is very active in the morning, but it still makes for a cranky boy in the evening. He is at this in between stage. It is frustrating because I love that down time for me in the afternoon and hate the cranky hour or so before bed, but love that he goes to be earlier! So I have decided that he will have quiet time in his room from 1:00ish to 2:30/3:00ish every day. Wish me luck with that. I have to admit I am resorting to movies and bribery.

In addition to his quiet nap protest, he has been in trouble two days at school. Monday he was mean to a friend and Wednesday he was not listening to the teacher and was sent to the principles office! So I have been taking movies and T.V. privileges away! Any other discipline ideas? I do time out at home right after an offense but when it happens at school it is hard to think of something effective when we get home.

Sophia is also having nap issues. She is tired about 2 hours after she wakes up and then naps in the morning for 1.5 to 2 hours. Then takes and afternoon nap for about the same amount of time. But for the last week or so she has been taking forever to get to sleep at night, and then waking at 4:00 am everyday crying but still sleepy. She then goes back to sleep and sleeps until regular 7:30 or 8:00. So I am not sure if she is sleeping too much during the day. But I really don't think she is ready to give up the morning nap because she is sleepy mid-morning. So I am not sure what is going on there.

Also she is growing into the frustration-fit phase. If she wants something or you take something away, she goes balistic. Arches her back screams. The only solution is to put her in her bed until she calms herself down. She is asserting independence but it makes for some doozy fits!

So needless to say my patience is running low and I am looking for new solutions to new problems. These are the times when I really have to ask God for some strength to be the best parent I can be without losing my cool.

soccer pictures

2008-04-29T19:18:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of new pictures from Garrett's last soccer game. He played a great game and Sophia had fun on the sideline!

Uneventful Tuesday

2008-04-29T12:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was as uneventful as today has been. Which is not a bad thing. Garrett had school yesterday. He got in a little trouble on the playground so he was not allowed to watch T.V. all night. So we came home and I made him work. We cleaned out my car and bathed the dog. Both of which he actually enjoyed. Josh came home a little early to mow. So Garrett spent the rest of the evening out there "helping". Really he was trapping rolly pollies in the gas tank of his toy mower. He thought it was fascinating that some would roll in a ball and others refused. Hmmm kind of like kids, sometimes they do what they are supposed to and sometimes not.

After mowing and dinner we went on a family walk. Garrett found some sprinklers to run in and was soaking wet, but having a great time. Sophia just chilled in the stroller and laughed at bubba. We played in the driveway, until Garrett ran into Sophia with the motorized jeep. Then it was over and to bath.

Today we went to Gymboree. Garrett played in the big kid room during Sophia's class. We ate lunch, got the car washed and came home for naps. Unfortunately, Garrett is quickly outgrowing this afternoon nap thing. If he does not get lots physical activity in the morning he is not tired for nap. So today I settled for quiet time in his room where he is now watching Franklin on his itty bitty T.V.

I am working on laundry and contemplating getting on the tredmill, which Josh moved for me last night. It seems I can find a million other things to do rather than get may a** on that treadmill. Oh well.

I am disappointed though, Josh had a last minute overnight trip come up, so I am missing Mom's night out tomorrow. My parents are gone and my babysitter works on Wednesdays. Boo for me. But more boo for Josh, I know he hates overnight trips.

So I will try to get kids to bed early and maybe work on my scrapbook. Wa Wa.

I do have some potentially exciting news. I submitted an application yesterday for an adjunct teaching job at UCO. I applied to teach a legal studies class. They of course prefer teaching experience, so I may not have a chance in hell. But with a legal studies certificate, some continuing education teaching experience and a really expensive law degree, surely I am qualified to teach someone something. So cross your fingers. My hope is that I can teach while the kids are in mother's day out next year (Tues. and Thurs.) days or possibly and evening class. I would love to just get a taste of teaching to see if it is something I would enjoy later.

Well off to procrastinate on treadmilling and fold some laundry.

Monday again...

2008-04-28T07:53:00.001-07:00

It is Monday again. One week since my last post. I am not really sure why I was so busy last week, but I was.

Sophia was sick Sunday, Monday and Tuesday with a fever. It broke and she was cranky for a few days after that. Tuesday was rainy so we spent the day inside. I set up Garrett's Art Easel. I bought this great wooden easel about 6 months ago at Sam's. It has a dry erase side and a chalkboard side. It also has bins underneath for storage. So with Sophia being sick and the rain, I decided to set it up and engage him in some creative activity. So I set it up and then we ran out quickly to find a roll of paper to fit it and purchased a smock and some new paint pen things. He was very excited. Played with it for 2 minutes and said, "I'm done." I said, "we spent all day getting this set up so you could paint and color and you don't like it?", "no I like it mom, I am just done." Okay so much for that. I was really feeling frustrated with him that day. I felt like no matter what I engaged him in, his attention span was 2 seconds and he was looking around the house for me calling, "MOM." So I called Josh and reported to him that his son was HIGH MAINTENANCE and driving me crazy. My patience was very thin that day, so I bitched to Josh about it for a good 30 minutes when he got home. Then I felt bad because thought back on the sweet moments throughout the day and decided I needed to focus more on these things than the frustrating ones.

Wednesday Garrett had school and then had a friend over to play. They made a mess in the yard and stripped naked and rolled in the sandbox. So I decided they needed to be hosed off because I was not cleaning the sand out of the tub. I thought the hosing off (it was kind of cold) would prevent this kinds of thing from happening again, but they enjoyed the hosing off even better than the sand!

Thursday, I took Sophia to Gymboree and Garrett had lunch with dad and then went to his office for a little bit. He had a great time. Sophia and I lunched together at the mall after gymboree. She is too sweet. She is so quiet and loves to play little peek a boo and take away games. The girl loves to go out to eat. She loves sitting up in the high chair with he food and cup. She just smiles and rocks back and forth, la di da this is so fun. We then came home for naps and on to soccer practice.

Friday, was my day off!!! Hallelujah! I spent the ay shopping and relaxing. I bought several summer outfits for our trip and basics. All my summer clothes from last year are big. I was still nursing and about 10 pounds heavier. So I needed some basic pants, tees etc. It was fun and relaxing. But I wish I had not been such a mall rat, so I could have enjoyed some quiet time at home too. But once I was in trying on mode I figured I better take my chance while I had it.

Saturday, Garrett had and AWESOME soccer game. He actually got it today and was really going for the ball and trying to score. I was so proud of him. One more game next week, let's hope he keeps it up! After the game, we left for Coalgate with some friends and spent the weekend there. The boys fished, rode four wheelers, played in the treehouse. It was great for them to have some good outdoor time. Sophia was miserable. She is such a homebody and was really not having fun. But she survived and took one for the team.

We crashed on Sunday after returning home.....and Monday....starting all over again. I really need to blog more often that is too much to report.

This week my goals are to have more patience, keep up with the laundry, exercise and take more time to snuggle and read with my kids.

It's Monday and I had to go to the dentist!

2008-04-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

The garage sale is over! YAY. I have to say it went very well and I brought very little home. It was alot of work but I made about $750.00. Which was worth getting all that crap out and the work it took to organize and tag it.

After the Garage Sale on Saturday, I came home and crashed at 8:30 and did not get out of bed until almost 9:00 on Sunday. I felt so rested. We went to church and then to Oliva Garden again for the all you can eat salad and soup. Yummy.

For some reason, Garrett had his near tset on going bowling yesterday. So I promised we would go afer Sophia's nap. But when we called to make sure they were open, we were told it was League Day and there would not be any lanes open until 8:30. He was very disappointed, but settled for ice cream cones in the backyard on his new picnic table (purchased with the garage sale money). We played in the yard until about 7:00 and had a great time. But I think bowling is in our future tonight. I know he won't let that one go!

Sophia has had a fever since Sunday morning. I think it might be her teeth. So we are layin' low today. Other than my dentist appointment I had earlier (which Josh came home for lunch to watch her). Hopefully she will sleep it off today. The weather is supposed to be very nice this week so I am wanting to do some outdoor activities in the next few months before the hot weather hits.

I feel like I have a million things to do this week. I let alot of the house things go last week while I was getting the garage sale stuff done. So now I am behind on the mundane cleaning and laundry. I cleaned the master bath today and my goal is to get my room completely cleaned and laundry done today. I can then move my way through the rest of the house this week.

Josh is taking the kids to his moms on Friday for the day. So I want to have everything done so I can relax and enjoy a full day to myself. I am planning a pedicure and some shopping. I am also going to pack and buy groceries for our trip to Coalgate with some friends on Saturday. I am so looking forward to a day all by myself. That is rare these days. Cross your fingers that nothing unforseen happens between now and then.....so I can taste a day of quiet freedom.

Kid Stuff

2008-04-17T17:22:00.000-07:00

We have been trying to stay active this week despite the high winds and inclimate weather. I took Sophia to Gymboree Wednesday morning after I dropped Garrett off at school. She took a quick nap in the car (which almost never happens) so I decided we would hit the early Gymboree class. We usually go on Tuesday or Thursday, but Josh was going to be out of town today so he could not meet me to take Garrett to lunch while I did Gymboree.

But anyway, we made the early Gymboree and Sophia was in a great mood and had a great time. She does alot of observing the other babies and the teacher. She also climbed up the stairs and over the bridge all by herself. She participated in the log roll, which she sometimes does not like. And would not have anything to do with the parachute. She only likes to sit on the parachute and pat it with her hands. No going under or riding the parachute! She is mostly into the singing and waving goodbye to Gymbo the Clown. It is a great way to have focused playtime with her. That way we have not interruptions, i.e. phone, brother, laundry, etc... Just a good hour of singing, playing and interacting with other kids.

Garrett had school and went all day without any name calling! He has been calling other kids "oinky" and "boinky" and any other nonsensical word he can think of. So we have been working hard on nipping this habit in the bud. After school we went to Target to get signs for the Garage sale and made it out of there without any major incidents.

Yesterday, Renae and I found this great indoor play place in Moore. They have a great baby area, moonwalk, costume room, play kitchen, basketball cage and a huge slide/playground thing. The kids loved it. They were so worn out, even Sophia was wiped out from all the running and climbing. It was a very relaxed playtime, we basically had the whole place to ourselves, so the kids just ran a muck. We will be going back there on hot and rainy days this summer.

Last night I went out with some friends 9:00pm to 1:30am. We had a great time, but getting up and getting moving this morning was tough and made me question whether it was worth it. I need sleep. I was glad I kept to my two drink maximum or I would have had to pressured Josh into calling in sick!

We are going to playgroup today and then nap before the great garage sale setup. I will be glad when this Garage sale is over. I will be really pissed if I have to bring any of these items back to my garage. I will be slashing prices!

2008-04-15T19:03:00.000-07:00

The weekend was successful in rounding up all the garage sale stuff. So now I have been concentrating on tagging it all.

It is sad going through all the baby stuff and seeing how big my kids are getting. I can remember all the little shoes and outfits and how they fit them, and how those babies cooed and the way they smelled. It makes me want to cry to think it has gone so fast, in a blink. They of course have moved on to new "firsts" and new memories are made every day. But those precious baby days go so fast. I wish I could cuddle each one of them like that again, even for just a moment. It is amazing how quickly they grow and learn.

Garrett was laying in bed next to me this morning and Josh said, "you look just like your momma", and Garrett said, "It's my hair dad." He likes to point out that his hair is like mine and his eyes like Gran's and Sophia's eyes are like mine, etc... He is so sweet. And I think is developing a real love of his little sis. He likes to kiss and hug her at night or when he leaves for school. Especially now that she kisses back and makes kissy noises. He thinks it is funny.

Sophia is really a lover. I love how she comes over to me with a book and hands it to me and then backs up in my lap, wanting me to read to her. She also likes to sit in my lap and rock back and forth, and every now and then look back at me to see my mouth making the words from the book. I was afraid she wasn't going to like to be read to as much as Garrett does, but over the last month or so she has really got into books and will sit through 2 or 3 short ones before getting wiggly. And now every night she leans over the side of the chair in her room and picks one out for us to read and screams when I turn out the lights after story time.

I love these kids and all the little sweet moments we share every day. I need to be "really" present in each of these moments, seconds, and take it all in, because they are gone in a flash. Then I am left recreating in my mind, looking at pictures, little clothes, old toys.

Bra shopping with 2 kids & other public appearances

2008-04-12T16:42:00.000-07:00

Thursday I got out with the kids at the mall for some Gymboree and lunch. I was very brave. I took both kids to the Women's Health Boutique and got fitted for some new bras. This is the kind of place where they measure you and bring the bras in and personally fit them. So here I am with the stroller in the dressing room, Garrett is touching the measuring tape and feeling the prosthetic boob, asking "what is this?". I think the lady in the store thought I was crazy, but I was dying to get a new bra that fits. So I found a nude color and a black one with little drama from the mob. After the fitting Garrett got a piece of candy. It was a peppermint, which he decided he did not like after he sucked all the red stripes off of it. So he carried it around saying he was going to take it home to daddy, until I agreed to eat, to avoid any more stickiness.

After the bra fitting I quickly ran into the spa around the corner to get some face wash and makeup. The ladies in there scowled at me when me and the gang entered. This place has "Quiet Please" signs everywhere, since there are women getting facials and messages. But we survived that too, after Garrett introduced himself to the nail tech and her client.

So on to Toys R Us for a birthday gift. Somehow I managed to spend $55 dollars on crap over and above the $20 gift. So Josh took that stuff back for me Saturday. I am trying really hard to buy needs not wants when out shopping. But I had a moment of weakness. Oh well. Toys R Us was smooth, until we exited into the parking lot and about got blown over by a gail force wind.

So onto home for nap and soccer practice. Josh took Garrett to soccer because it was too windy to take Sophia out.

Friday we had playgroup and then Bryce came over to play while his mom and dad were out of town. The boys went down for a nap very easily, which I was nervous about since they tend to be quite hyper when together. After nap I sent them to the backyard where they ate snacks and played for near two hours. At one point I looked out and they had stripped down naked and were rolling in the sandbox. So I redressed them and sent the back out to play with instructions to their clothes on. After 5:00 I brought them in for a bath. I did not want to send Bryce home to Grandma muddy and dirty.

We dropped Bryce off with Grandma then went to dinner. Which was a series of unfortunate events. Garrett was very well behaved at the restaurant, but we still caused a scene. Sophia hit her mouth on the table and screamed for a while, then Garrett dumped his soup all over his lap and chair. But it was a yummy dinner; sushi, edamame, sesame chicken and WINE! Garrett loved his chicken teriyaki and the coffee flavored mints that come at the end.

Yesterday we rushed to a birthday party at 10:30. It was kind of strange though, because I think we were the only people there that weren't family. The kids quickly played at Oklahoma Cold Gymnastics, we dropped off the gift and headed to soccer. Garrett took the fact that we missed all the traditionally birthday festivities (cake, singing, gift opening, etc...). The soccer game was at 11:00 so Garrett dressed in the car and ran to the field. Soccer went as usual, follow the kid that can play, let the ball roll right past you, run down the field shouting, "I can't do it", eat a snack, play with the boundary flag, put team bucket on head, spin in a circle on the field, whine about it being cold, run through the tunnel of parents, head to the playground, game over.

We then went to eat lunch at Red Robin. Garrett loves this place because they give out balloons. Home for naps. Then Josh got out all the garage sale stuff from the attic. I only priced a few things then got bored.

We went to Church this morning, which was good. The massage was about money. You own the money the money does not own you. Basically no matter how much money you have, it is about your attitude towards money not the amount. Sophia did not make it int he nursery today, so we got paged half way through to come get her. So I couldn't concentrate to well on the second half of the sermon. So I am going to have to read back over the notes and bible verses. I really love our Pastor, Marty Grubbs. He is so down to earth and talks about real issues that we all deal with.

Gran and Papa (my parents are home) YAY! So we had lunch with them after church at Olive Garden. The soup and salad there is so good, that is what we ALL ordered. I am glad they are home, but they leave again Wednesday for two weeks. I miss them when they are gone and I know the kids do too. But we know they are out having fun, which is what they deserve to be doing in their retirement.

Garrett is spending the afternoon with Gran and Papa and Sophia is sleeping. So I am off to put the Garage Sale stuff in the car and deliver to Renae.

Rain Rain Go Away

2008-04-10T07:46:00.000-07:00

So with Sophia being sick and the rain we have been stuck in the house, other than running Garrett to/from school. I was highly motivated at the start of the week to do garage sale and clean out, but now I need to get out of the house. So we are going to go to Gymboree today, get Garrett's hair cut and pick up a birthday gift. Garrett loves to walk around the mall while we go to Gymboree. No I do not let him walk around alone, Josh meets us for lunch and they throw coins in the mall fountain. It is a quiet mall great for indoor playing when it is raining. I may try to walk there a little bit before, to grab some quick exercise. Maybe that will provide sufficient activity to warrant a good nap by all this afternoon.

A friend and I are getting out tonight for bra shopping and drinks. Something to look forward to. I seriously must have seasonal mood affective disorder. The rain drains my energy.

Sick Baby

2008-04-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

Sophia has been sick that past few days. Fever, lots of snot and little coughing and she has been sleeping a ton. Apparently something has been going around and she's got it. Lucky for me I have had two rounds of antibiotics so I am the perfect caretaker. Despite the sickness she is still in relatively good spirits. She loves this peek-a-boo book that my mom got her, so we have been reading that over and over. The last page has a baby in a tiger costume and the book says, "say Roarrrr!" and every time I read that last line Sophia gives a low grunting roar. Too cute.

Garrett is at school again today and thanks to Alisha he can now go to school confidently knowing all the words to Tiny Tim (the turtle song). We downloaded this to the IPOD yesterday and listened to it over and over and then over again. I feel like a shmuck though. He got invited to a birthday party this Saturday. But the Mom had put in invite in Garrett's backpack, and I did not discover it until today. So I called and apologized and told her we would be by for a few minutes before the big soccer game on Saturday. Note to self, check the backpack everyday.

The weather is kind of cold and dreary, so my plans for potting plants are out today. So I am going to work on the Gararge Sale pricing while Sophia sleeps and before my Dr. appt. We are having a BIG garage sale in a few weeks that is turning into a 4 + family event. So all items must be priced and color coded. I hope it is worth the effort. I should catch a nap because the last two night the kids have woken me up and I lay awake for a good 1.5 to 2 hours before going back to sleep, just before time to get up. But if you know me, you know I am not a good napper, and persist in being a busy body not matter how tired I am .

I think I am extra tired too, because Josh and I are now officially on the Cabo diet. We are taking a trip to Cabo in June, so I have resolved to get us both in swimsuit shape. I am proud of Josh, he passed on the peppermint ice cream last night during American Idol, and instead went for a large bowl of fruit. Good job. I think I am tired because I have been foregoing all things sweet or fattening for veggies and green tea, which leaves me low on quick energy. But I will push on so as to be somewhat prepared to put on a swimsuit and drink and eat for four days! Yay me.

I am off to raid Garrett's closet for all things too small and never played with; to hide in the garage sale pile before he gets home.............

Firsts:
Sophia first piece of cinamon raisin toast with peanut butter (she loved it)
Garrett first hidden party invite?
Josh's first bowl of fruit (ha ha!)

I'm not going to jail, but I am in laundry hell!

2008-04-08T06:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday...

Okay, I was in fear they might pick me up and haul me to jail. I checked the mail on Friday and I had a large envelope from my previous employer with not one but eleven notices from the Pikepass authority that I had Evaded the Toll. I had been using my personal Toll Tag and apparently it was not registering every time I went through the toll gates. So my license plate was registered to my old work account, which should be closed. After a weekend of hiding out from the authorities :) It was all resolved by the surpisingly friendly Pikepass worker that said "no problem" and cancelled all violations and made all necessary changes over the phone. Whew! That was close, Josh may have had a hard time with these kids, if I was doing hard time.

All that was resolved yesterday while I resolved to attack the mountain of laundry that never ends at our house. Between loads I contacted the "the authorities" and worked on my FEMA volunteer case, which thankfully is about to wrap up with one final check to this poor family. I have been working with them for about 6 months now, navigating the insurance system to get the max out of their Flood Insurance policy. We are at the last step of resolving their ICC claim (Increased Cost of Compliance). I am now well versed in Flood Insurance and will be glad to close this out.

Sophia and I hung out on laundry mountain while Garrett was at school (mother's day out). She is not feeling well. It started with a runny nose, which I thought was her teeth, because that is what is usually is, but after lunch she had a fever. Then the coughing ensued last night. She is in good spirits despite her congestion. So while I folded and folded and folded, she played and played. I put these cute sandals on her today, just to see if they fit. And they did. She got a big kick out of them because they kind of click when she steps and then they light up! The lights and clicking entertained her for a good hour. She walked "frankenstein" circles around the kitchen.

We went to pick up Garrett at school (no nap today = whining at dinner = early to bed). He sang a turtle song all the way home. "I have a little turtle, his name is tiny tim, I put him in the bathtub, to see if he could swim, he drank up all the water and ate up all the soap, he went ot bed and then he Blah ( I think this should be croaked)" but Garrett likes to end the song with a very loud BLAH! He is really into making up words, and has spent that last several days calling everyone "oinky" or "goinky" or some variation of that same. I will be glad when this phase is over. He is also into the shock value of saying "booger". I thought that was not until age 7 or 8.

After school the kids and I planted flowers in the front garden, while the laundry was cycling. Sophia was very cute she just squatted next to me and watched me very intently and Garrett dragged toys out of the garage. He was so cute though...He got a new garden shovel over the weekend, as a party favor. I was going to borrow the shovel to plant the flowers and he said "no stop, you can't use that shovel, it is new I have to keep it nice." Okay...so I went to the backyard and grabbed an old shovel from the sand box, but by the time I got back out front he had problem solved and said, "I got a plan, you can use my shovel, and then you can wash it off after." So I used the new shovel. Thank you Garrett! He is very into problem solving and coming up with his own ideas.

So to end the day..dinner, more folding, more separating, walk with Josh and kids, kids to bed, put laundry away and to bed. Are you seeing a pattern with the laundry it must be entertwined with all other activities or the mountain will grow.

Firsts:
Sophia's first hardsole shoes that light up and click!
Garrett's first turtle song
Jamie's first brush with the OKLAHOMA TURNPIKE AUTHORITY!

Let the Blogging Begin

2008-04-07T09:39:00.000-07:00

I am starting this blog today after inspiration from my friend Sarah. She started hers just before having her son. I am not very good at record keeping (as far as first jar of peas, first tooth, etc), so I would like to journal each day to give me some record of events and reflection. I have always been an analyzer and put a lot of thought into even the smallest of decisions or events. But it seems since I had me kids I don't finish a thought or take a lot of time to reflect. My hope is that this will give me an outlet and keep me sane (as entitled). Enjoy!