My blessed life with kids

Disneyworld 2009 Part III

2009-03-20T19:16:00.000-07:00

After our morning spent at the Magic Kingdom park, we decided to head to Epcot. Here's the kids in front of the giant 'globe' (I'm not really sure what to call it, so please forgive me, all you Disneyworld historians out there! :)

Since it was later in the evening and only a few hours to close, we decided to head for the 'The Seas with Nemo' ride, which was quite cute. Here are the kids posing inside a shark's mouth right outside the Nemo ride--one of Disney's many picture opportunities.

After that, we walked around the 'World Showcase' (a section of the park portraying different countries of the world). After we ate in the Moroccan restaurant, we headed outside for Epcot Illuminations, a spectacular outside show on the water with fireworks and lasers. Once the fireworks show was over, we headed home from the park on one of the shuttle buses taking us back to the resort. Unfortunately, at one of the 10 stops in our resort our bus broke down. To try and save time, we decided to walk back to our room--I mean, how bad could it be?! It was really amazing how spread out our resort was, because not only did it take forever, but we were truly lost! After searching for awhile, we finally found our room and crashed for the night.

The next morning we got up and headed to the Animal Kingdom park for our character breakfast at the Tusker House restaurant (and yes, I did double-check my blackberry to make sure I had the correct date! :) Here's the kiddos outside the park.

Once inside we passed by the Tree of Life garden which housed the most incredible looking man-made tree that I had ever seen. In all actuality, I'm not sure if I've ever seen another man-made tree, but it was really amazing! Not only was the tree very intricately made and detailed, it was also huge!

After the tree of life garden, we headed over to the Tusker House restaurant for our character breakfast. For starters, character meals are worth their weight in gold. I really liked the concept of them, because not only are you getting a nice meal, the kids get to meet several characters and have them sign their autograph books and take pictures and you don't have to stand in line! There are several different character meals at each of the parks and at every one, you get to meet different characters. For this particular meal, Mickey, Donald, Daisy and Goofy came around to each table and meet and greet everyone. Here's the kids with each of the characters.

After the kids got to meet each of the characters, the waiters handed out African-themed instruments to the kids and they got to dance around the restaurant playing instruments while Goofy danced--it was a lot of fun! After our breakfast we headed off to see the rest of the park.

Disneyworld 2009 Part II

2009-03-15T18:33:00.001-07:00

The first morning (after our plane trip the night before) that we spent in Disneyworld was a little chaotic (thanks to me!) Since I recently acquired a new Blackberry for Christmas, I decided to put all of our reservations for Character meals on it. However, after we made it to the Animal Kingdom park for the Character breakfast that I thought we were supposed to be at that morning, I realized I was a day early for our reservation. Oops! Since Jason was none too happy to be at Animal Kingdom our first full day and not the Magic Kingdom, we got back on the shuttle bus and headed to the Magic Kingdom. (Nothing like an extra 20 to 30 minute bus ride in the morning when you are eager to be somewhere ;)

Anyway, once we got to the Magic Kingdom , we were off...here's some pics of the kids in front of Main Street. I love that the kids didn't even get out of their strollers for the picture. Oh well, I'm just glad we had the strollers to begin with--a necessity at Disneyworld for two small children, if you ask me!

At Downtown Disney, I had purchased the kids some Disney autograph books so they could have them sign their books when they met them. It was so cute to see the kids meeting each of the Disney characters. They really thought that they were real! Here's the kiddos meeting Winnie the Pooh and Tigger, Pluto (just Ashlyn), and Chip n' Dale.

After standing in line to meet characters, we headed to the 'Winnie the Pooh' ride, the 'Peter Pan' ride (one of my favorites) and the 'Its a small world ride'. I kept laughing during 'Its a small world' ride, because Layton kept saying "I'm scared, I'm scared". I think he thought the ride was a little creepy with all the animated dolls singing 'Its a small world' again, and again, and again...I'm sure some adults would agree with him too. :)
After some of the rides, we headed to Mickey's toontown fair to see where Mickey and Minnie lived. Here we are outside Minnie and Mickey's houses.

After visiting Mickey and Minnie's houses, we headed back over to 'Goofy's Barnstormer', a kiddie roller-coaster, that Jason and Layton went on. Here's a picture of Layton and Jason before Layton's first slightly anxious, but overall enjoyable roller-coaster ride.
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After a few more hours in the park, we headed home for a much needed rest and headed to Epcot for the rest of the evening. More to come in the next post...

Disneyworld 2009 --Ashlyn and Layton's 1st trip

2009-03-06T08:13:00.000-08:00

Since its been almost two months since my last post, (you're not really that surprised, are you?) I decided to fill you all in our most recent, exciting happening...we just took the kids for a weeklong fun-filled trip to Disneyworld! Actually, we got back about two weeks ago :), but believe me when I tell you, I feel slight overwhelmed trying to post about our trip. We did so much during our trip, I don't think I can even remember everything that we did. However, I will try to post a few of the highlights and remembrances of our trip.

First of all, Layton was seriously afraid of our plane ride to Disneyworld. This was quite a surprise to us all since Layton has flown several times since he was 4 weeks old, our most recent uneventful plane trip being in September. Its amazing how your child's awareness can change so suddenly. We think he suddenly realized how far up in the sky an airplane is--not too comforting for him. Anyway, after taking off in Houston, landing again in Jacksonville, MS (?) and taking off and landing again (remind me never too book anything that is not non-stop again!), we arrived in Orlando.

Since we have two small children, we decided that we would try to stay in a Disneyworld resort, the Caribbean Beach resort. I will say that it was very nice to not have to drive to get to all of the parks. We took shuttle buses to all of the location, which was nice to have (although a few times after a long wait to sit on a crowded bus, I was wishing we stayed at a monorail resort!) The weather was fantastic while we were there--about 70 to 80 degrees with a nice breeze. The parks were a little more crowded than I expected. It turned out that the state of Louisiana had closed schools for that week (Mardis Gras week), so we had a few more crowds than we expected, but overall it was very pleasant. Here's a few picture highlights of our trip once we were in Disneyworld.

Here's a picture of the kids after designing their 'Mickey hats' our first night at Disneyworld. Since we didn't get to our resort until after 6:00 pm, we decided to start off our disney vacation at Downtown Disney (one of the parks) to do a little shopping. What was amazing was how cold it was our first night there--poor Jason only had on a t-shirt and shorts from our plane trip there, so he was freezing. I don't think it was enough to motivate him to purchase a $50 Mickey Mouse hoodie (yes, the prices were just that expensive!), but he was pretty close to it!

Here's some neat pictures of some of the sculptures behind the kids outside the Lego store at Downtown Disney. No, your eyes are not deceiving you--those sculptures are made completely out of legos. Amazing, isn't it?!
I just noticed Ashlyn's expression in the 2nd picture--Ha! What a goofball!

After a pricey meal at the T-Rex cafe, we did some more shopping and then headed back to the hotel for our first full day at Disney. More to come in the next post...

Ashlyn dancing

2009-01-11T11:23:00.000-08:00

Okay, I know I mentioned in one of my last posts that I would keep my blog updated on a more regular basis, but (well, you know) life gets in the way... Anyway, I did want to post a video of Ashlyn doing one of her routines from her little dance class. Isn't she cute?!!! (Note her little twirl at the end--that is sooooo Ashlyn). Luckily my sister (and my adorable nephew) was visiting and got to see Ashlyn perform. Not only did they get to see her, but we also got to get some pictures made of all the kids together which I will definitely post at a later time. Until then...

Here's Barron...

2008-11-27T06:20:00.000-08:00

After a long nine-month wait, my adorable nephew is finally here!! What a blessing!

Barron was born Nov. 25th at 2:55 pm, and was 7 lbs. and 20 in. long. Isn't he cute?!!! We are all so excited to meet him and can't wait to hold him! Praise the Lord for this wonderful addition to our extended family!!

Random updates since my blogging 'hiatus'

2008-11-08T20:35:00.000-08:00

Well, hello everyone! It seems like forever since I actually took the time to sit down and blog. Not sure really why--I guess with school, kids, and a rather bothersome stomach virus for me and for my family, blogging was really last on my mind. Of course on my time off from blogging, Halloween came and went and fall set in (sort of) here in Houston. Don't even get me started on how we are still bordering 80 degrees here in Houston in November, but I can't complain, it is better than stepping out the door and sweating (most of the time).

For Halloween, Ashlyn and Layton decided to take the superhero 'angle' this year and be Batgirl and a Blue Power Ranger. They were soooo cute. Not only did the kids get to go trick-or-treating on Halloween night, they also got to go trunk-or-treating at our Church and go to my mother-in-law's annual Halloween party the weekend before. So you could only imagine how much candy we had in the house--much to my dismay and my hubby's delight. Needless to say, the kids were also quite happy.

Anyway, I noticed that during my absence from blogging, my dear friend, Michael Ann, tagged me to share 7 random things about me (about a month ago!). So, in order to update my blog and illuminate everyone out there (ha!),here goes... Sorry so late, Michael Ann :(

7 Random Things About Me:

1. I had to laugh at Michael Ann's 7th random thing about herself, because it is something that we have in common (how random is that?!). I also had perfect attendance throughout my four years of high school, never missing a day even for illness. Not to mention, my parents would not let me miss school unless I was on my deathbed, but nevertheless--I never missed.

2. I have a birthmark on my face that I always have to cover up with makeup. It basically looks like someone slapped me on my right cheek, but it has always made me self-conscious. I even tried to get the discoloration removed with laser treatment, but the remnants are still there. As I have gotten older, I've learned not to care about it as much, but it would be nice to not have to put any makeup on it all. I guess we can always find something we don't like about ourselves.

3. I like to bargain shop. I'm not as good at finding deals as my friend, Nikki, but I like to look. I especially like perusing resale shops for great deals--its so much fun!

4. I've always wanted to take ballroom dancing lessons. Jason has always told me that he would do it with me if I wanted to, but I have yet to sign us up. Maybe it's because we have two small children at home that we'd have to find a sitter for. Regardless, one of these days, its going to happen!!

5. I'm with Michael Ann on this one too--we don't have Tivo. I'm sure we are one of only a handful in the country that don't. I would actually like to have it--especially with two small ones, it would be soooooo convenient. Again, (like the ballroom dancing lessons), I'm not sure what we're waiting for, but it sure would be a nice Christmas present (hint, hint, Jason).

6. I play classical piano and had competed when I was younger in numerous piano competitions for a number of years. My sister and I both played and would play solos as well as duets in these competitions (my favorite being duets). Although, I don't currently have a piano in my house (sadly) my dream is to own a grand piano one day.

7. And last but not least, I am about to become an aunt for the first time. My sister, Jackie, is due to have her little boy ANY DAY NOW! and I am soooo excited. Watch out, this baby is going to be spoiled rotten by me!

Anyway, that's my list of 7 random things. I'll try to do better at posting more often (you know how it goes with life these days), but this is a start. Here's to blogging again in the very near future!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-08T11:02:00.000-07:00

Fun sights in Kansas City

2008-09-23T08:47:00.001-07:00

The next day we were in KC, we decided to check out a place that Leah recommended for the kids on the Kansas side of KC--only about 20 minutes away. It was a place called Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead and it was about the cutest thing I've ever seen!

Not only was it the prettiest place I've seen in a long time, it was filled with so many neat things for the kids to do. There were wagon rides for the family; cane pole fishing with buckets full of worms (you know I had Jason handle that part!); a 'mining' area to find treasure; an area where you could bottle-feed baby goats; an indian encampment with tepees; a go-cart track for little tractors the kids could push with pedals (it was so cute!); pony rides; playgrounds for the kids and even a barn with tube slides coming out of the top--very cool; a petting zoo and a little 'zoo' for farm animals (ducks, geese, chickens, goats, pigs, cows and other farm animals--not to mention a bison, bobcats, an eagle, an owl); and even a little bunny village full of long-eared rabbits--so cute!

Here's us on the wagon/hay ride. It was especially nice because of the wonderful fall weather.

Here's me and Layton on the ride. I love this picture!

Here's a picture of the Jason and the kids fishing at the pond. Although we only caught one fish (and it was Jason's), the kids had fun running up and down the pier and slapping the water with their sticks (or as Ashlyn called it 'pretend fishing').

Here's a picture of the tractor 'go-cart' track. So sweet.

Here's a picture of the pony rides.

This is a picture of me and Layton after our 'disastrous' attempt to bottle-feed the baby goats. We had initially all gone into the pen to feed the goats, but we were soon overtaken by the hungry baby goats--in fact, the ones that weren't eating were nibbling on our clothes! Sheesh! Needless to say the kids were a little scared. This picture was taken after we quickly learned that the better way to feed the goats was through the fence. So here I am with Layton feeding the goats--I think Ashlyn was done after the 'feeding in the pen' attempt.

All in all, it was a very fun time at the farm. More pics and posts on our other KC sight-seeing visits in the next post...

Hurricane Ike, A Wedding and Kansas City, Part II

2008-09-20T20:05:00.001-07:00

After all of the wedding festivities were over, we discovered that we couldn't get back to Houston because the airports were closed due to the storm, so what did we do?!! Stay and make a vacation out of it, of course!
First of all, let me tell you what a beautiful city, Kansas City is! It actually made me slightly homesick for Illinois, where I went to high school at. It was actually feeling like fall in the air, and their were so many trees everywhere! Kind of funny to think that is what I noticed, but hey--when you're in Houston so long with humid, hot weather and concrete everywhere, you really appreciate those things! We had a ball!

Our first stop on our whirlwind KC tour was a trip to the Kansas City Zoo. Note the jacket and long-sleeves the kids were wearing. I think the weather was around 60 something that day--I was in heaven!

Here's a picture of the kids posing for us. Can you tell they are making animal faces? :) Not sure what they are pretending to be, but I'm sure it's something scary!

Let me tell you. I was so impressed with the zoo. Its so funny, because I don't think a lot of the locals think its that great, but it was really so scenic. The zoo was split up into different continents--Australia, Asia and Africa, and it was set up to resemble certain outposts in each continent (really very cute). I also loved the fact that we were able to see the animals up close and personal. In fact, a peacock was even walking around the grounds of the zoo. Here's the kids sneaking up on it. (Don't worry all you peacock lovers out there--we made sure they didn't chase it) ;)

I was also amazed that the kangaroo exhibit did not have a fence of any kind around it. The ground was also level where we were--no moat, or dugout seperating us from them. Here's the kids in front of the kangaroos. Look how open the exhibit is--really amazing!

Of course we had to take the zoo train around to all the different 'continents' in the zoo to wrap up our trip. That of course was the highlight of the trip for the kids. In addition to the train, they also had a tram, a ferry ride across the lake, and camel rides. OK, the camel rides were not really 'zoo' transportation, but I was totally bummed we missed the camel rides because the kids were getting tired. Wouldn't you have loved to see me riding a camel?! So would I! :(

Needless to say, we loved the zoo! More pics and posts of our other KC haunts in another post...

Hurricane Ike, A wedding, and Kansas City Part 1

2008-09-19T19:09:00.000-07:00

As you can see from the title, I'm not really sure what 'story' to focus on. We have had so much happen in the last week and a half its hard to even know where to start--but I'll try. Here goes...
Wednesday evening, Sept. 10th, before Hurricane Ike was to hit, we had tickets to fly out to Kansas City for my dad's wedding . It was a strange coincidence to be flying out right before a big storm (or maybe providence?!), but we were thankful to be out of harm's way. I was so excited to be there! I got to see my sister, who I had not seen in a very long time. In fact, we stayed in the same hotel just two doors down, so we got to visit (i.e. send the kids over to play) quite a lot. We had a ball staying up late snacking on junk food and letting the kids jump on the beds. Is there anything better than that?! We even got a chance to do some shopping the day of the rehearsal wedding and even got our nails done (yep, amazingly enough my nails are long for once in my life!) Here's Jackie and I all dolled up before the (very interesting!) wedding.

What made it so interesting you might ask? Well, for starters there was a tornado not far from where the wedding was held. For those of you who have spent any time in the Midwest, the way people know about tornado warnings (beside radio and television) is through a very loud tornado siren. Well, you guessed it, the tornado siren was going off the ENTIRE wedding! You could even hear the rain pounding the roof and thunder booming in the background--probably not the most romantic backdrop. Not only was the weather bad, but a few other interesting things happened. When it came time to exchange rings, they couldn't get the ring off of the ring-bearer's (Carson's) pillow, Susie couldn't get the ring on my dad's hand, a little boy fell over in his chair during the wedding and not to mention my sweet Ashlyn was still throwing rose petals on them while they were standing at the front. It was definitely amusing! Susie and my dad, though, just kept a great attitude throughout the whole wedding and laughed along with everything. (I guess after all that, what else could you do?!) My dad even surprised everyone by singing 'You are so beautiful' to Susie during the reception. Completely unexpected, but touching in a slightly awkward way--I mean he is my dad after all.

Here's a pic of Susie, my dad and all the grandkids. Bill's (Susie's oldest son) kids were also in the wedding with my kids--Lainey(age 5), Carson (7) and Drew(3). Don't they all look so adorable? :)
Here's a pic of Susie with her two sons, Nathan and Bill, my new step-brothers. Its still kind of strange to think I have new step-brothers. They are both so nice though, and their wives (and children) are so sweet!

Here's a picture of Bill's wife, Leah (on the far left) and her mom and sisters. (Yes, she really is as gorgeous in person as she is in the picture!) Leah and her family are really the sweetest, most down-to-earth people you'll meet. Its so funny, because her and her sister, Rachel's relationship reminds me a lot of mine and Jackie's. In fact, our two sisters are even due around the same time. It turned out that her mom and sister (in the middle of the group) were from Tomball and also stranded in KC until the airports opened. (OK, maybe stranded is not a good choice of words, since we were in such a nice place and surrounded by family and friends.) But we all got to spend a lot of fun time together!

We are so lucky that our new family are such wonderful people. In fact, we spent some 'bonding' time playing ultimate frisbee (if you haven't played that before, you will definitely need to be in shape to play--its pretty intense!) and spent some time visiting. I definitely wished we lived closer, because we get along so well Of course, we'd never get anything done, because we'd be talking so much! ;) (Right, Leah? ;) But all in all we had such a good time! More pics and stories about our extended stay in KC to come in a later post...

Week of First Days

2008-09-03T12:54:00.001-07:00

This past week has been a week of "firsts" for my kids. It was the first day back at Mother's Day Out for Layton and Preschool for Ashlyn (sniff, sniff) this past Tuesday. The kids were not completely hyped to be getting their picture (as you can tell from Ashlyn's expression), but I snapped away anyway. Here they are looking so grown up on their first day back. Can't you tell Ashlyn is so excited to get her picture taken? Ha!

Here's Ashlyn with her new preschool teacher, Miss Jessica. We are so blessed that Ashlyn has her this year--Jessica is a new teacher to the Preschool, but she is a former kindergarten teacher and is sooo sweet! Ashlyn really likes her and told me on her first day that "Miss Jessica knew how to tie my shoes for me", which made quite an impression on Ashlyn. Its so funny what kids find interesting.

Ashlyn was also glad to have her friends from the 3 year old class last year, in Miss Jessica's class with her. She was especially glad that she had her friend, Eddie, back in class with her this year. It was so funny (and surprising!) when I asked her about her first day and she told me that she 'kissed Eddie' today. Yikes! I asked her why and she told me that she loved him and wanted him to marry her. Does it start this early?! I guess as long as it stays in the cute, preschool phase it will be okay, because daddy will definitely not be ready for that (or mommy for that matter!)

I tried to get a picture of Layton on his first day with his teacher, my dear friend, Heather, but he was too busy to play to want his picture taken (hmmm, maybe I'll take a 2nd day pic and post that). I had wanted Heather to have both of my kids in her class and was overjoyed that she would be teaching Layton this year (she had Ashlyn last year). She has always been so sweet, firm and loving with my kids and they love her. I know this will be a good year at school for Layton (and Ashlyn) and I can't wait to see how they do throughout the year.

Not only was it the kids' first day back at MDO, it was also Ashlyn's first day of dance class. Here are Ashlyn and Layton in front of the sign to her dance studio. (Everytime I tried to take a picture of Ashlyn by herself, Layton jumped in. Oh well, they both do look cute together.)

Here's a picture of just Ashlyn showing me her twirly skirt. She was very excited to be dressed in her purple leotard and tights.

Once we got into the studio, all of the girls went back to the dance room together with their teachers, who were so very nice and good with the children. Layton tried running back to the room with the girls, but I quickly detained him. He wasn't too disappointed, though, once he found another little boy to play with while I (and the other mothers) rushed to take pictures of our girls. It was so funny to see all of the mothers (myself being one of them) running like a pack of paparazzi behind the line of girls going back to the dance room. I had to laugh when one of the teachers had to shoo us out as we were taking pictures to watch behind the window so they could start class. It was definitely one of the cutest things I think I have ever seen. It was so cute watching all of the little 3-5 year old girls twirling around in their tutus. Ashlyn was so excited that she kept smiling from ear to ear and jumping up and down. It was so sweet watching her enjoy herself so much. After the class was over, we all took some more pictures and got to visit with the teachers, who did say that this was one of the best classes they had since the girl's were all so well-behaved. Here is a picture of Ashlyn with her new teacher, Miss Jill, who is also the owner of the studio.

All in all, it has been a fun week for the kids. I can't wait to see how this year goes--its going to be good!

Layton turns 3!

2008-08-29T15:20:00.000-07:00

Wow! It just seems like yesterday my sweet, darling boy was just a baby. Boy, those days have changed. Now it seems like our shy, sensitive baby has blossomed into an active, rambunctious, little boy--overnight. So to celebrate the momentous occasion, we decided to have a party at one of the busiest, most chaotic place for parents (a.k.a. Chuck e. Cheese). Needless to say the kids loved it!

Here's Layton and Ashlyn with Aunt Chelsea, Mamie and Pop (Jason's sister and parents) at the beginning of the party. We are so blessed that we have some extended family that is close by (since mine are so far away) to celebrate these times with us. Just looking at this picture makes me think of how quickly time passes. It just seems like yesterday Jason's sister was little and now she's a junior in high school and we are parents of pre-schoolers--where does the time go?

Here's Layton with his best friend, Marcus. They are so cute! Layton talks about him all of the time and tells me that Marcus is a 'sweet boy'. The boys wrestle around and play together all of the time. It is so heartwarming to see Layton developing friendships. He is truly a special person in Layton's life--I hope they are friends for a long time to come.

Here's Ashlyn with some of her friends, Macy and Annelise. Although its Layton's party, I just had to add a picture in of these girls because they just look so cute.

We are truly blessed to have so many wonderful friends in our lives and our children's lives--God has been good to us.

I am especially blessed to have such a sweet, tender-hearted, active, little boy in Layton. Happy Birthday, Layton--here's to many more! :)

Our second home

2008-08-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

No, this isn't actually our second home--although the kid's wish it was. It's the pool at the YMCA in League City, or basically where we spend most of our lazy summer days. What I absolutely love about this pool is that it is 1 to 3 ft deep the entire pool (except for the big water slide area, which adults or kids who pass a swim test are only allowed to go in) so it is soooo much easier for me to watch both of them by myself than in a regular pool. There's also a little playground/water park area for the kids to play in, which they love! Not to mention its all part of having a YMCA membership, so its free. All I can say is the YMCA has been my (and their) favorite place to go all summer!

Do you have a favorite thing to do or place to go during the summer? How are you spending some of the last days of summer?

Girls just wanna have fun...

2008-07-21T16:37:00.000-07:00

Or in our case, seven women away from the kids and the husbands for a weekend. This past weekend, six of my dearest friends went away for a girl's only weekend to the Houston Galleria to eat, eat, eat, and shop, shop, shop (what else do you do on a girl's weekend?!) Of course, our fave restaurants had to be involved (at least once every day to be exact)--La Madeleine and The Cheesecake Factory. Can one ever have enough cheesecake?

Here's our smorgasbord of cheesecake we passed around and ate.

Godiva chocolate cheesecake--it doesn't get any better than this!

Before, during and after eating we (what else?!) shopped! No, those aren't celebrities ;)--its just me and my friend, Deanna, trying on some of the latest fashions.

And of course... we had to get pedicures! We found a place that would do several of us at a time, so we sat back in our luxe massage chairs and chatted and visited. Amazingly enough, it was Deanna and I's first time for a pedicure, so we sat back and enjoyed the experience (although, somewhat nervously I might add)! That foot scrub sure tickles!

Despite having to deal with Galleria traffic, and a very confusing mall directory (who knew L2 meant Level 2? hee hee!) we had a blast. There's so much to talk about perhaps in a later post, but right now I just need to catch up on my sleep!

July 4th 2008

2008-07-07T09:51:00.000-07:00

This past holiday weekend, Jason and I took our annual 4th of July trip to the beachhouse. Every Independence day weekend, Jason's parents rent a beachhouse on the Bolivar Peninsula right off of Galveston. We spend the whole weekend at the beach sunning, swimming, and shooting fireworks.
Although the beach isn't like (or anywhere near) a beach in Florida, it's only about 40 minutes to drive to the ferry from our house to get there. Even though the beachhouse is just a ferry ride away, the waiting lines were a nightmare. We had to wait two hours to get on the ferry and two hours to come back home. Not much fun when its hot! Here we are sweating it out...

Once we got there, we put the kids in their swimsuits and headed out to the beach. Here's Layton and Ashlyn (water gun-ready) all ready to go. Unfortunately, five minutes into our time at the beach it started to storm (just our luck!), but it quit soon after and we had sunny skies the rest of the weekend.

On the night of the 4th, we went to the beach to watch people shoot fireworks and shoot some of our own. I mainly watched other people shoot them, because I do not like to handle fireworks--just watch them. Boy, was it loud! Here's Ashlyn covering her ears. She didn't seem to like the noise of the fireworks too much.

Layton didn't mind too much--here he is even holding his own sparkler.

After a short time (before we lost all hearing), we went back to the beachhouse porch to watch from a safe distance. All in all, it was a fun, relaxing time had by all.

Hope your 4th of July was great!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-07-02T07:20:00.000-07:00

Go Astros!

2008-06-24T19:46:00.001-07:00

This evening we took the kids to their first Houston Astros game. I know, I know--we live in Houston and haven't been to a game yet, but since Jason got free tickets handed to him at work and the kids were old enough for us to go and actually enjoy the game, we went. Here's an excited Ashlyn and Layton in the car on our way to the game. In their baseball caps of course.

After we got to the game, the kids were a little overwhelmed by all the noise, but after some cotton candy and ice cream they settled right in. Nothing that a little sugar can't fix!:)

Here's me with the kids. Why do I always look so tired in all my pictures ??!!

Ashlyn & Layton enjoying the game.

Although we didn't stay for the entire game (we left after the 6th inning), we still had a blast!

My Summer So Far...

2008-06-19T13:27:00.000-07:00

Well, after $200 in doctor's visits, trips to the pharmacy and two consecutive weeks of illness--I can finally say we are all feeling better. The eye virus is gone and we are ready to begin our summer! (Phew! I thought we'd never get over that one!) What shall I do next? Not particularly sure, but I know some things for sure--its going to involve popsicles, sitting by the pool (or beach) and staying in the shade!

What are your plans this summer? Are you a pool-goer? Do you have any major trips or vacations planned? Any ideas to keep the kids entertained this summer?

Our eye saga

2008-06-09T08:34:00.001-07:00

This past week has been a particularly interesting week for our family. Not only did my dad and his fiancee come up to visit this past week, our house has also been host to some rather unwelcome guests--of the virus variety. Yes, this past week, my two adorable children and I have had to endure pink-eye (not to mention fevers for both of my kids). How many days have we been sick with just the pink-eye, you might ask? Well, its been 6 days now and COUNTING! Yep, it's been almost a week and it has not been getting any better. So, after two pediatric visits and one eye doctor visit for me, its been determined that we all probably have a strain of 'hemophilus influenza' or basically, the flu for our eyes. The doctor seems to think that I probably got coughed on by some sick child (most likely in the face) and from that I got this wonderful eye condition. As a Mother's Day Out toddler teacher it does seem like a likely scenario. Nice, huh? So, with no particular end in sight, and another prescription of eye drops--we'll see...

Has anyone out there had to deal with stuff like this for this long?!

Dad and Suzy

2008-06-04T19:20:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I got to meet my future stepmother, stepbrothers and family. You could say I was a little overwhelmed...but pleasantly surprised.

On Saturday, we drove up to Tomball to meet everyone. Since it was at Suzy's (my dad's fiancee's) daughter-in-law's parent's house in Tomball (yeah, it was hard to wrap my brain around that one too!), we had a nice, casual cookout by the pool while all of the kiddos swam and played. Suzie was so warm and kind and so were all of her family. I really hit it off with her daughter-in-law, Leah, and her husband Bill (one of my future stepbrothers) while our kids played with theirs (Carson, 7 yrs; Lainie, 5 yrs; and Drew, 3 yrs). I also got to meet Suzy's youngest son, Nathan and his wife and they were very nice as well. When we got a moment alone, I asked Nathan and Bill what they thought about our parents getting married. Their responses were the same as what my sister and I had--that their engagement was surprisingly fast, but in both of their best interests to have someone in their lives. You could say it was quite refreshing to not feel like we were the only ones who felt that way!

After we left the cookout, Suzy and dad followed us back home where we visited some more. Here's a recap of the next few days: Ashlyn got sick, we went to the zoo, we went to the Kemah Boardwalk, and then my dad got sick (all in that order!) After a nice (but eventful) visit, they went on their way to visit San Antonio.

What were my feelings during this time, you might ask? Well, they were definitely mixed. I was very happy for my dad and Suzy because they were obviously very happy together and I liked Suzy so much. But as I was putting Ashlyn to bed the next night, she told me that she liked her 'new grandma'. When she said that my heart literally ached for my mom. All I could tell her was that my mom was her 'first' grandma and that she was in heaven looking down on us. When Ashlyn asked, "how can we talk to her?", I told her that we could ask God how she was doing. I had to laugh when Ashlyn asked me what my mom was doing up in heaven, and she told me that she thought she was probably just "laying around". Oh, to have the innocent mind of a child!

Overall, I am very, very happy that my dad has chosen such a wonderful person to be his next wife. She is a Christian woman who is very gentle, kind, and sincere. I couldn't have picked a better person myself!:)

Semi-Wordless Wednesday

2008-05-28T18:28:00.001-07:00

Ashlyn & Layton with their new friend from the backyard, baby snake.

My little girl is afraid of heights, but not afraid of holding snakes--Go figure! :)

Feeding the ducks

2008-05-16T12:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday evening, Jason and I decided to take the kids for a nice leisurely night out--feeding ducks! Since we've been on a kick lately of doing things with the family that are new, different, and exciting (okay, exciting might be a bit of a stretch, but it is different!), we thought it might be something fun for the kids. So, with some stale vegetable crackers in tow, we were off!

Here are the kids feeding the ducks out of their hands. I was quite impressed that the kids let them get that close!

Here's Layton taking a quick bite before handing his cracker over to the ducks. I'm just glad it wasn't the other way around.

What are the kids doing in this picture, might you ask? Why learning to spit off the bridge, courtesy of 'Daddy 101'. If you look close enough in the picture, you can even see the spit flying out of Ashlyn's mouth. Ha!

After a rousing game of ,'Let's see who can spit the farthest', we went on our way to pick flowers and take an up-close look at the wildlife.

Next, Jason took the kids over to catch some bait with his casting net, while the kiddos picked the minnows off the ground and threw them in.

After a few rounds of casting and picking up fish, we headed home. It was such a cool, summer evening and a fun time for our family.

What are some out-of-the-ordinary activities you like to do with your family?

Sweet words for Mother's Day

2008-05-09T14:27:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of Mother's Day, I decided to post a little 'questionnaire' that my daughter came home with from Mother's Day Out. Her teacher (and my friend), Heather, asked all of the kids in the class the same questions and sent the questions and their answers home with each mom. Its very amusing to see what Ashlyn really thinks of me--her answers are bolded in black below! Ha! She's such a doll. Here goes.

What is a mom? A mommy, silly!

My mom's name is Maria...or mommy.

She likes to watch Nick Jr. and Little Bill on television

For fun, my mom likes to play with my family (Heather told me that Ashlyn initially told her that 'my mom likes to play with my dad', but she changed it because she thought the latter might sound a little better--hee, hee! I'm still laughing about that one!)

My mom likes to eat spaghetti...you spell it "p-o-i-o-m".

The thing my mom cooks best is macaroni and cheese.

If I had lots of money, I would buy my mom make-up.

My mom doesn't like to watch weird movies.

What I like best about my mom is to hug her.

My mom likes my dad to watch movies with her.

My mom is 24 years old, I think. (What a sweet girl!) :)

My mommy smells like strawberries.

My mom's job is to clean the house. (Sigh, so true, so true...)

I know my mom loves me because God made us! (And I'm so glad he did)

I love you Ashlyn & Layton!

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there!

A New Chapter...

2008-05-04T13:03:00.000-07:00

Well, it's finally happened. My dad is officially engaged to be married this September. How do I feel? Well, you can say I definitely have mixed feelings. Overall, I am excited for my dad and his new fiance although I have yet to meet her, but that's another story entirely. All I can say is that I definitely feel overwhelmed with memories--memories about my life with my mom. There are some things that I have discovered through this whole experience--there are no guarantees in life. All you can do is hope for the best and cherish your loved ones while they are still here. More to come on the upcoming nuptials...

I've been tagged

2008-04-30T12:36:00.001-07:00

I’ve been tagged by my sweet friend from college, Traci. She was definitely one of the funniest people (and sweetest) I had ever met and she always kept me laughing. We reconnected via blog after all these years and we're having fun getting reacquainted with each other kids and all!

What I was doing 10 years ago:

Finishing up my last year of grad school and living in Arkansas
Dating Jason and waiting to be engaged
Driving my cool Dodge Neon all over town (with my Psychd4 license plates that everyone thought said 'Psycho'--HA!)

Five things on my to do list for today:

Make dinner
Get new library books
Play with the kids
Call my sister
Do some more of my bible study for tomorrow!

Things I would do if I were a billionaire:

I'm with Traci on this one--Pay off debt! and then help some of my loved ones pay off some of theirs!
Set up trust funds for my kids
Take my entire family on a big Disneyworld vacation and then travel some more!
Give some money for scleroderma research

Three of my bad habits:

Biting my nails
Second-guessing everything I do
Dwelling on things I can't control TOO MUCH!

Five places I have lived:

Barksdale AFB, Louisiana
Ruston, Lousiana
Newport News, Virginia
Lafayette, Colorado
Troy, Illinois

Five jobs I have had:

Secretary at a Frozen Foods warehouse
church Secretary (over the summer)
Professor's Assistant in the Psychology Department
Human Resources Recruiter
Salary & Compensation Analyst

Three People I Want to Know More About:
Michael Ann
Deanna
Heather

A girl's gotta have friends...

2008-04-29T14:26:00.000-07:00

8 years or so after moving to the great state of Texas, I prayed a simple prayer: 'Please God, give me friends'. After many a teary conversation with my dear husband, I remember thinking, "I miss my friends at college and at home in Illinois, and I don't know anyone here." Not a totally unusual thought for me, since I did move around as a child, but this time was different. With no inherent plans to move in the near future, I knew that we were going to settle here for awhile, so I needed to make some friends (and fast!). Looking back, I have to laugh because now I feel that I have made so many wonderful friends through church, school, and have reconnected with some of my dear friends from college (through my blog, I might add!). After having had a particularly down day yesterday and crying to my dear husband about it I talked to one of my dear friends about it and all she had to say was 'I understand, I've been there too' and the problem was resolved (all in a ride to school I might add--thanks Heather!). All I can say is: A husband keeps me grounded, but having girlfriends keeps me SANE! Can I hear an AMEN to that?!!

Eau de Chocolate Milk

2008-04-23T10:04:00.000-07:00

No, its not a new perfume (although, your kids would probably love the smell). Its the new scent I'm wearing after my darling son accidentally splashed me with his chocolate milk. How, Do you say? Well, let me start at the beginning of this wonderful day...
First off, it was check-up day for Ashlyn. And you know what that means--SHOTS! So, after a particularly stressful doctor's visit for Ashlyn, I decided to take the kids to the mall to eat at Chick-fil-A and shop at Build-a-Bear to try to relax and have a good time. HA! Well... I ran into a girl that I knew from my doctor's office and we sat down together for lunch. Long story short, after just telling her how things 'got better' after the kids got older (she has two kids that are about 18 mos. apart--mine are 17 mos. apart), Layton decided to shake his chocolate milk bottle WITHOUT the lid on. If you could imagine one of those scenes from one of those high school movies where someone throws a drink over someone's head--well, it was just like that. I had chocolate milk in my hair, dripping down my face and all over my shirt. I didn't even know what hit me! Luckily, the girl who I was eating with (whom I didn't really know all THAT well) was so understanding and helped me wipe up with some of the baby wipes she had in her bag. Sooo, at this very moment I am badly smelling like chocolate milk and in desperate need of a shower (my second of the day!). What can I say, when life hands you moments like this you either laugh or you cry--or both.

Field Trip Day

2008-04-17T15:48:00.000-07:00

Today, my sweet daughter had her first field trip at Mother's Day Out. We went to a neat place called 'Bayou Wildlife Park' which has horse rides, a petting zoo, and a tram that you can ride to feed and definitely get 'up close' to all the animals at the park. Since it was her first field trip, I went along and took WAY too many pictures (what's new?). Here's just a few:

Here's Ashlyn riding a horse (her first horse ride!) She didn't want to do it at first, but after an hour of waiting in line and watching other kids go (yep--an hour!), she decided to try it herself and actually enjoyed it. I was so proud of her!

After the kids rode the horses, we had lunch and then got on our tram ride, food buckets in hand, to feed the animals. Here's a picture of one of the little boys in her class petting a camel. When I said they got up close, they really got up close!

It amazed me just how close they got to us. One of the other girls in Ashlyn's class was so afraid of the animals she was screaming. Poor thing! Ashlyn was a little gunshy herself so she just threw the food to the animals. Here's her waiting for the perfect moment to do just that:

I couldn't resist posting a picture of my dear friend, Heather (and Ashlyn's MDO teacher) feeding an ostrich. Look at her surprised expression (sorry Heather, I just couldn't resist!) Love ya! ;)

After the tram ride, we headed on to the petting zoo to pet a few goats. Here's Ashlyn and her little MDO friend having a conversation about what sound goats make.

After a few several squirts of hand sanitizer, we headed back to school. Despite crowded lines, rain showers and restless kids it was still a fun day had by all!

A True Princess

2008-04-13T15:33:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, my sweet daughter was invited to the birthday party of a dear friend of hers from Mother's Day Out. Granted, I don't normally post pictures from another kid's birthday party on my blog (am I weird for taking so many pictures at somebody else's birthday party??), but I had to on this one since it was so darn cute!

First off, this party had a theme and was so well planned. The mom (who I also know) started off by reading the girls 'The Princess and The Pea' and then had the girls sit on 3 cushions to see which one had the pea (a small ball) under it.

Here's Ashlyn finding out if she is a 'true' princess.

The girls, of course, loved that! Next, once it was determined that they were 'true' princesses, they decorated crowns, put on pretty pink tulle skirts and decorated flip-flops and searched for their wands that were hidden in the room. After all of the girls got dressed up they were invited to the 'royal ball' where they got to dance together as princesses to some cute Disney princess music. I think I said "That is soooo cute!" about a hundred times!

Here are the princesses waiting to go to the royal ball.

And here they are dancing. One girl unfortunately got poked in the eye after all the twirling and wand flinging (but what do you expect with four 4-year old girls!) ;)

I'm just so glad that I have a sweet, little girl to do all of this fun girly stuff with! Here's to my little princess!

Making Pancakes

2008-04-08T20:33:00.001-07:00

This past Monday morning (after a long weekend), I decided to do something different for a change--have the kids make their own breakfast! Now, I know what you are thinking--What a mean momma! But seriously, the kids had a ball! In fact, Ashlyn was feeling quite motivated to cook after garnering a new child's apron and cooking utensils from "Pop" for her birthday. Although Layton didn't have a fancy apron and cooking utensils, he was gung-ho to make pancakes too. So, with some pancake batter, a mixing spoon, a few messy spills, and some skilled (and supervised) spatula moves-- Voila! Breakfast was served. Here's Ashlyn with her prized pancake.

Here's Layton with the pancake he made. Note the funny face he is trying to make.

I tried to take another picture, but this was the irritated, 'Mom!' reaction I got. Oh well, I liked the first one better anyway.

Do your kids like to cook or help you in the kitchen? What are some of your favorite things to make together?

Gum, Anyone??

2008-04-04T13:38:00.001-07:00

Amazing, isn't it? I just had to post a picture. No, I didn't win the 'gum' lottery (although it looks like it). My dear, dear friend, Nikki, gave me this load of gum and mints. In reality, her dad gets some overstocks (is that right, Nikki?) for the store he works for and he passes them down to her family. Since she gets so much stuff, she hands it down to a lucky few--namely me. So, long story short, since gum is a major staple for me--I'm the lucky one with all the gum. Thanks Nikki, I'll never have to buy gum again! :)

What are some of your staple (can't go anywhere without) items?

Happy 4th Birthday, Ashlyn!

2008-03-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was my little girl's birthday weekend (her actual birthday was on Saturday, the 29th). And let me tell you, it was a weekend! To start off, we weren't even sure if we were going to have her party or not. She had woken up with a stomach bug the day before her birthday and was not feeling well. Yep, here's a picture of my poor, little girl asleep on the couch with her well-worn 'ducky'. (I have a feeling that 'ducky' will be in shreds by the time she is in kindergarten, she loves it so much).

Luckily, Ashlyn started feeling better the morning of her party, so off we went to...McDonalds! I know what you're thinking--McDonald's?! Jason and I had gone to McDonald's birthday parties when we were growing up and they were always our favorite ones to go too. So, when I found out they still did them, we had it there. Of course it was mass-chaos with all of the kids running around sticky-faced and smelling like McDonald's fries--but they had a blast! Here are the kids at the birthday table.

I still laugh at this picture, seeing Ashlyn in her birthday hat (it kind of reminds of one of those headdresses for a queen that they have in those medieval movies). :)

I just can't believe how quickly my little one has grown! My goal is to slow down and enjoy more of the time with my sweet daughter (and son) before they grow up, because they grow so fast! Since I can't resist posting some more pictures, here is Ashlyn through the years:

Yep, that's Ashlyn at 3 mos. with pigtails...I don't even think I've ever seen that much hair on a baby before. :)

Here's to you, my sweet, sweet, little girl! I love you more than you can ever know! Happy Birthday, Ashlyn!

Balloons, Toys and Toothbrushes?

2008-03-26T14:12:00.000-07:00

No, we're not talking about a birthday party (I guess the tootbrush thing gave it away!), although my firstborn's 4th birthday is right around the corner. I'm talking about the dentist. Yes, on Wednesday my two children had their 1st dentist checkup. If I had actually remembered my camera (but you know me!), I would have posted pictures, but since I don't have any from their first dentist visit, you'll just have to hear about it in words.

Considering my youngest is only 2 1/2, I wasn't really expecting the dentist visit to be a really good one. In fact, when I made the appointment the staff at the pediatric dentist's office told me to expect about 45 minutes per child since it was their first visit. However, I was pleasantly surprised. We actually ended up only staying for about an hour because they did sooooo AMAZING!! The dental hygienist was even surprised at how well the kids did at their age. I was fully expecting to deal with fussing, crying, struggles, etc., but they had none of the above! The staff at the pediatric dentist's office were so nice and 'debriefed' me on what was to be expected. They even had a playroom for the kids that had 3 stations of videogames and a room full of toys! (Definitely different from my days going to the dentist as a kid). They took x-rays of both of the kids (my oldest first) and after they were done, they gave them both a sticker. What was really funny is that the dental hygienist that came in to clean the kid's teeth was actually a member of my running club. I had actually run with and talked to her at the very beginning of my training (it may not seem like a big deal, but my running club had about 400 or 500 ? members in it, so it was really a strange coincidence!) Anyway, Ashlyn got her teeth cleaned first and then Layton followed suit, fluoride treatment and everything. After the doctor declared them both cavity-free (YAAAAY!!), they went home with balloons, toys and new character toothbrushes. I was so proud!!!

How do your kids do at the dentist? Do they cringe at the thought of going, or do they actually like to go?

50 Random Things About Me (Part 2)

2008-03-24T19:39:00.001-07:00

Okay, since I just have to complete my '50 Random Things' post (remember #25?)--here goes my last 25. Unfortunately, I couldn't quite provide a flow of ideas in this one (its definitely more random!), but hope you enjoy it nevertheless! Here goes:

26. My hubby and I took our first trip to Europe when I was 6 months pregnant with my firstborn, Ashlyn. I hoofed it all over London and Paris and even got my picture at the top of the Eiffel Tower (despite my fear of heights!) Let me tell you--it was scary!
27. I have a very goofy personality. (Big surprise there!)
28. My husband does too, and that's why we fit so well together.

29. I think I got my goofy personality from my dad, whom I adore.

30. Although my dad lives in Missouri, I'm very close to him--I talk to him on the phone at least once a day.

31. I think I was born with 'foot-in-mouth' syndrome. I go home thinking (quite often), "Why did I say that?". I'm not sure if it's because I tend to speak before I think or if I'm actually missing some brain cells. You decide.

32. I tend to be very critical of myself.

33. I am rather indecisive at times and find myself second-guessing just about everything I do.

34. I had perfect attendance throughout my 4 years of high school. My best friend, Diane, and I were the only ones to receive that prestigious (ha!) award in our senior class.

35. My perfect attendance could be a result of the fact that my parents would never let me miss school (unless I was on my deathbed;), or because I loved school. I have always loved being in school whether it was elementary, intermediate (maybe not so much), high school or college. I loved being in classes and learning new things.

36. I love old R&B and funk music. I like music with a lot of soul and a good beat.

37. I love riding in my car with the music blaring and singing at the top of my lungs. (Maybe not so much now with kids, but when I do get a chance to do it when I'm alone, I usually do).

38. I am a definite yo-yo dieter. I feel like I'm constantly going up and down in clothes sizes. Tell me this is normal all you women out there!

39. In the past I jogged for weight control, but turned my casual hobby into a goal.

40. I ran my first half-marathon in October of last year.

41. I ran my first marathon in January of this year.

42. I have only jogged sporadically since then (about once or twice).

43. I'm hoping to start up again (soon!) and run another marathon this next year.

44. I am a huge chocoholic and ice-creamaholic (or any other sweets for that matter!)

45. I am completely non-crafty.

46. I don't scrapbook, stamp, etc. I don't know if its because I lived most places where it wasn't really popular, but I don't do it nevertheless. I'm sure I'd like to learn--someday.

47. I have a nasty nail-biting habit, which I've seen my daughter, Ashlyn copy (Uh-oh!)

48. I can't pop my knuckles.

49. I can't whistle.

50. I have a sarcastic sense of humour. I tend to joke around (a lot) with my good friends.

Well, there you have it. That's me in a nutshell (besides some other weird quirks and idiosyncracies). Hope you enjoyed the journey with me. Now, here's to the next 50 posts (and many more...)

50 Random Things About Me (Part 1- the First 25)

2008-03-24T11:39:00.001-07:00

Well, I have officially passed the '50' mark--50 blog postings that is. To celebrate this momentous occasion, I have decided to follow in the footsteps of some of my fellow bloggers and post 50 random things about myself that you may (or may not have known) about me. So, pull up a chair (or grab a pillow and blanket--whatever gets you through it) and enjoy:

1. I was born at Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana. Yep, I'm an Air Force Brat (not sure if I've ever actually grown out of that phase)

2. My mom was from the Phillippines.

3. My mom passed away 4 weeks after my son Layton was born. It was definitely one of the hardest times in my life--I still struggle with it now and again, but its getting better bit by bit.

4. I have one sister named Jackie, who I am very close too. Just think of my alter ego and you'll have my sister's personality.

5. I am a stickler for punctuality--I'm either right on time or at least 30 minutes early (not sure why I do that, but I do--I guess I'm scared I'll miss something ?

6. I have 2 dogs, Sissey and Sara, and have mostly grown up with dogs.

7. My dream as a child was to be a veternarian (like most children, I'm sure). I didn't quite accomplish my goal, but my house can be a zoo at times! :)

8. I have a weird phobia about earthworms, slugs, grubs, etc.. The weird thing is that I'm not really afraid of snakes, spiders, cockroaches, bees or really any other insect--just worms. I don't like it when I see them in the yard, let alone touch them. I'm not sure what I think will happen to me if I did come in contact with one, but I'm sure it would be bad ;)

9. I have mowed a lawn once in my life (since we mostly lived in small towns with a lot of land), but I'm sure I would try again if I really had to. I mostly avoid yardwork unless its raking leaves or something due to my earthworm phobia (it's not an excuse I swear!)

10. I have lived in 4 different states while I was growing up--Louisiana, Virginia, Colorado, and Illinois.

11. I consider Virginia to be my childhood home.

12. I play piano and took classical piano lessons for 12 years growing up. I hated piano lessons when I was little, but I enjoy playing now that I'm an adult.

13. I really wanted to play the drums when I was little, but my mom quickly nixed that idea.

14. When I was in junior high, I helped my mom and my sister refinish an antique baby grand piano that I used to play on. It was truly beautiful.

15. I have always been an avid reader and I love to read books, magazines (whatever), when I do have the time.

16. My favorite types of books and movies (okay, here's where the geek in me comes out) are either in the Science Fiction/Fantasy genre or period pieces about Victorian-era England. I actually grew to love the same books that my dad and mom used to read. I started reading the books that they liked when I was growing up and learned to like them myself.

17. Once I find an author that I like, I read all their books (and then I read them over again!)

18. I don't like to read non-fiction books or dramatic movies that are reality-based. I definitely read and watch movies to escape what goes on in the world around me.

19. That said, I do not like to watch the local news. I hate hearing about all of the crime around me.

20. I can't stand horror movies--never have never will! I definitely do not find watching people suffer (no matter if its real or not) entertaining.

21. I do not like to ride roller coasters--much to my hubby's dismay. I have ridden several in the past, but only because someone wanted me to ride. I usually just close my eyes until its over.

22. My dislike of roller coasters could be due to my fear of heights.

23. Although I have a fear of heights, I have rock climbed, been rapelling, and otherwise tried to tackle my fear of heights (I try to do that with most of my fears, except for the earthworm one--I'm not even going to try and tackle that one).

24. I am very focused on getting things done. In fact, I tend to obsessively think about a project until I actually complete it.

25. I am getting better at that. If not, I wouldn't be breaking up this post for easier reading (although I do have it saved in draft format to post later! :)

To be continued...

Easter 2008

2008-03-23T20:09:00.001-07:00

This Easter was a special holiday for me. Why? No, it's not the fancy Easter dresses and Easter egg hunts, although I definitely love those parts of the Easter holiday--it was my first official holiday where I actually cooked the holiday meal myself! Yep, the whole deal--ham, potato casserole, broccoli and rice casserole, peas, rolls, apple pie and to top off the meal, my artery-clogging Reese's Peanut Butter Cup cake. I was feeling pretty good about myself! Jason's dad, Gray, otherwise known as 'Pop' to the kids, came over to eat my Easter lunch and brought his mom, Betty. It was so good to see them both! Here's Pop with the kids and Grandma Betty. Note Layton's lack of pants (sigh!)--I didn't want to make too big of a fight about it on Easter, but it sure does put me to work cropping a lot of pictures! :)

For those of you who know me well, I am not much of a picture taker at everyday events. I tend to be the person who forgets to bring my camera to well, most everything. But on holidays, I tend to take maybe, too many pictures (?) Sooooo, get ready to see a lot of pictures. Here goes...

Here's my sweet, albeit 'pant-less' boy out looking for Easter eggs:

Here's Ashlyn out looking for her Easter eggs and then later placing them into organized lines. I haven't quite figured out her organizational pattern, but I'm thinking she's going by color ? Hmmm.....what do you think?

And last but not least, some random pictures of my family. This is for you Heather! :)

(If you look closely enough in the background you can see Layton (again) without pants. Jason and I got a good laugh out of that one!)

I hope you all had just as wonderful holiday as we did this year! Happy Easter!

The 'Barkington Inn', a.k.a. The Stansell House

2008-03-22T16:52:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you have four dogs:

two kids...

and one stressed momma? Why, utter chaos of course!

All joking aside...this past week, I played dog-sitter to 2 of the sweetest dogs you'll ever see (in addition to our darling pets, Sissey and Sara). Since my mother-in-law and sister-in-law were going out of town, Jason and I played dog-sitter to their dog, Benjita. What was really strange was that my dear friend, Amanda (a fellow teacher and friend from Mother's Day out) called that same day to see if we could watch her puppy, Rocky (a sweet Shih-Tzu and Poodle mix) since her husband was in the hospital for breathing problems. (Her husband, Ivan, has since been discharged from the hospital, but will still need prayers for a complete recovery). I, of course, agreed and took her sweet puppy to our house. Well...Ashlyn was over the moon!!!! Here she is holding Rocky.

Layton enjoyed having the dogs around too, but being the little boy that he is, he had a little difficulty being gentle with them. So, since he was barred from a lot of contact with the dogs (for their protection, believe me!), Ashlyn took to playing 'mother hen' over them. She immediately went to work, playing, holding and taking care of those sweet dogs. It was so funny because she thought Rocky looked like a guinea pig and she kept coming out of her room after bedtime to see the 'guinea pig'. :) It was so sweet to see her motherly, nurturing side come out as she watched those sweet dogs (she even read them books!). When Rocky had to leave the next day, she was sad to see him go, so she immediately focused all of her attention onto Benjita (I'm sure, much to Benjita's dismay! :) Here she is holding her 'second' baby, Benjita:

Its been so fun to see my two little ones share my love for animals. If you have pets, do your kids play with them, hold them, read them books, etc.? What funny things do your kids do with your pets?

2 Water Squirters = Happiness

2008-03-17T17:10:00.000-07:00

This past week, I stopped at the dollar store and bought the kids two water squirters. I'm not sure what the correct term for them is, but that's what we call them anyway. We originally had one which had since then gotten broken (is that correct grammar ? :) but as a smart mom, I decided to go back to get two--one for each of them to avoid any fights. Ever since we got them, the kids have been playing with them nonstop whenever we're in the backyard--giving the dogs a 'bath' , watering the trees, or washing our windows (I wish the kids really did accomplish one of those things, it would be a huge help!)

Here's Ashlyn happily 'loading up' her water squirter to chase the dogs with:

Here's Layton posing with his water squirter after my fifth attempt to get him to look at the camera and not squirt me! Note the lack of pants--he's in his 'I hate to wear clothes phase'. I'm just lucky I got a shirt on him! :)

I know toys can't buy happiness, but they do buy me at least 30 more minutes to myself. Thank goodness for the dollar store!

Are there any toys/games that keep your kids happy and occupied for large amounts of time?

'One' of my pet peeves

2008-03-16T19:42:00.000-07:00

Okay...If you just won this 2.2 million dollar home in the Florida Keys and a brand new car...

how would you react?

Would you scream, cry, jump up and down, pass out, or all of the above? Well, after watching the actual sweepstakes winner surprised with the news on TV tonight, you would have just thought she won a prize out of a gumball machine. She just stood there!!! Okay, she was crying (a little!), but she wasn't outright weeping or anything--she was just silently standing there like she could have cared less! Come on woman--show some emotion! I think there should be a rule in every sweepstakes that if you do not appear excited when you win, they should give it to someone that is excited to win (like my mother-in-law who entered 20 times!) Pet peeve--even if you're not that 'outspoken' of a person, when you win something like that on live television ACT LIKE YOU CARE! Okay, now that I've vented a little, I'm off to enter a Disney sweepstakes, and you better believe it--if I win, you'll know! :)

Slacker me

2008-03-10T19:41:00.000-07:00

It seems lately that I have been living the life of a completely unmotivated slacker. That may seem like a very big statement to make, but that's how I feel lately. I haven't been running, doing bible study, or any other major project for that matter. Since I finished my marathon in January, I have been feeling a slight let-down. I had been training for so long and hard for that moment to come and...now what?! I had debated 'the whether or not to run question' for awhile, but with Jason about to switch jobs and possibly go to work earlier, I'm not sure when I will really be able to fit in my running. Sooooo, I'm back to square one.

All you stay-at home moms out there--what do you do to stay in shape with the time allotted you? Do you go to the gym, work out a schedule with your husbands, or just watch what you eat? Help! I need some ideas before the summer rolls around!

My clumsy self

2008-02-25T13:17:00.001-08:00

For those of you who know me, clumsy is my middle name. Even as an adult, I feel slightly like my dear 2- year old, running into walls, tripping over toys (okay, maybe not so unusual as a mom!), or generally being a freak magnet for accidents. Well, this past Sunday, I did it again--in public. Here's the rundown..
After debating over whether or not to eat out, we decided to go out for Mexican food after church. After five minutes of being there (it doesn't take me long!), I decided to go to the restroom and take Layton with me. While I was holding him and walking to the bathroom--I tripped and fell!! I think it was possibly the slowest fall in history! I slid on my wedge heels (don't you love being a girl? :) and slowly fell on my side (in my skirt I might add!), while holding Layton in my arms. I might possibly have been able to stabilize myself from the fall, but since I was holding Layton my balance was off. It was a little like ice skating (Michelle Kwan watch out!). It kinda reminded me of tripping in the high school cafeteria, and sliding (on my rear end) right up to the senior lounge with my tray still upright in my hand, fiestada untouched. An oh so embarrassing experience at the time, but so funny now... :)
What was even more amazing is that I fell not five feet behind Jason and he didn't even know it! Okay, granted he has had an ear problem lately where he can't hear very well out of his right ear, but there was a lot of commotion going on! A waiter came by to help me up and see if we were okay and helped me up. Luckily, there wasn't a whole lot of people at the restaurant--but still!! Aren't I too old to fall down like that? I know what you're thinking--I am a little bit on the clumsy side, but I'm telling you I am a magnet for accidents! Anyway, after getting up and seeing if Layton was okay, I calmly took Layton to the bathroom and came back. After telling Jason that I fell down, to his amazement and concern ("Am I in trouble now, because I didn't see you fall?") , I sat back down. What was really amazing is that I really didn't care that I fell in front of people (even while a waitress was looking at me with a little smirk on her face!) Am I now past my childhood insecurity? Not remotely--but I was a little bit that day!

To be a child...

2008-02-19T19:10:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it amazes me that children can find such excitement in doing things, we, as adults, find mundane. Today, for instance, I decided to do some yardwork in the backyard. What me? Actually do some yardwork?! For those of you who know me, gardening/yardwork, etc. is just not my thing. I'm not sure if its the fact that I've mowed maybe once in my life, or if its the fact that I have a major phobia of earthworms, but I generally steer clear of outside work and leave it all to my dear husband. However, after many a day of looking at my overgrown backyard (which has not come into contact with a lawnmower blade since I don't even remember when), I decided to take matters into my own hands. So, with my gloves (so as to minimize contact with any nasty earthworms or grubs), I set about weeding our poor yard.
What really amazed me while I was working, is that my kids were actually excited to help me! You should have seen them! Grass, weeds, leaves (whatever) started flying through the air. They were so excited to be helping mommy. It was especially cute when Ashlyn told me, "Look momma! We can make bread with these weeds!". (I think she actually got the word 'weeds' mixed up with 'wheat', but hey, if you grow and pick them both out of the ground how can you help but mix up the two!) I just wish I had the same sort of excitement the children have when I have a particular chore to do. Just when did I lose that childhood innocence? Who knows?! All I know, is that I have a lot to learn from the mind of a child.

Do your children find excitement in ordinary things too? Do you have any weird phobias that prevent you from doing things you might enjoy?

My how they grow!

2008-02-07T18:46:00.000-08:00

No, its not 'Wordless Wednesday', or 'Semi-wordless Wednesday' for that matter. Since I'm so behind on my posting (after a 'nice' visit from the flu bug), I decided to put some pictures of my adorable kids for all my friends and family to see--it is my blog after all!
Here's Ashlyn and Layton hugging one another. Its so neat to see how these two have grown to genuinely love and care for one another. Believe me--they can fight with each other, but they won't let anyone else mess with their sibling!
Here's Layton in some kind of fighting pose. Not sure who he's fighting, but they better watch out!

Aaah, and last but not least dress-up. This time the kids each got to dress up as dogs. Its amazing how much they (or mostly Layton) wants to act, talk, and dress like each other.

For those of you who have children, it is amazing to see our children achieve new things, learn to do things on their own and become more independent. It makes me sentimental thinking about how Ashlyn will be starting kindergarten next year! (Okay, its not until fall of next year, but still!! It's just around the corner!) I hope I will always be able to remember the times when they were this young and cherish the moments (even amongst the stress!) My, how I love these kids!:)

My own brand of therapy

2008-01-28T09:12:00.000-08:00

Since I haven't posted a new blog entry in awhile, I figured I'd give you a little update on my life's happenings up to this point. After the marathon, I've been feeling a little (shall we say) unfocused. After debating the matter of 'whether or not do to do another marathon', I've decided to shelve the matter for awhile and focus on other matters. Whether I want to or not, my mind has been cluttered with other thoughts. You see, my dad has been contemplating finding another potential spouse--one of whom did not work out, and another who is a promising possibility. Since its been about two years since my mom died, I know my dad is ready to find someone to share his life with and not be so terribly lonely. Its a bittersweet time for me since I am hopeful for my dad and excited for him in starting a new chapter in his life, but at the same time I am really feeling the loss of my mother. I think reality is starting to set in that she will no longer (physically) be a part of my family here on earth. Sometimes just that thought alone threatens to overwhelm me at times. As with anything in life, I've come to discover that sometimes you just have to roll with the punches and hope that each day is better than the day before. I guess what the French say is true, "C'est la vie".
On a (much) lighter note, I have been trying to occupy my time and thoughts with my newest home improvement project--the hall bathroom. I would love to do some before and after shots of the entire project, but since the 'before' shots of the bath would be too embarrassing, I will just post some 'after' shots and leave the 'before' ones to your imagination. I'm not doing a major remodel, just removing the dreadful sunflower wallpaper, repainting and replacing a light fixture. So far most of the wallpaper is gone, so my next step is to sand, repair, prime and paint the walls (all of which I do while the kids are in bed). Not only is this (hopefully) beautifying my house, but it is also constructively filling my thoughts and my time so I don't have time to feel down. So there you have it--good or bad, home remodeling/redecorating is my therapy.

Interesting Tidbits

2008-01-21T07:24:00.000-08:00

My sweet friend, Kim, 'tagged' me to fill out a fun little survey. So, here goes. A little about me...

Two names you go by

1. Mama
2. Rooney (my sister and friends from Illinois call me that--who knows where it came from.)

Two things you are wearing right now

1. sports watch
2. my gray and black striped socks

Two of your favorite things to do

1. Spend time with Jason and the kids
2. Read (book, magazine. Whatever!)

Two things you want very badly at the moment

1. To have a personal housekeeper/chef, errand runner, etc.
2. To be able to see my sister and dad whenever I want to.

Two favorite pets you have/had

1. Sissey and Sara
2. Pepper (my cockapoo I had as a child) I guess that counts as three--oh well. :)

Two people who will fill this out

1. Deanna
2. Holly

Two things you ate today

1. A bowl of Chocolate Honeycomb cereal (yes, I do try to 'fit' chocolate in whenever I can.)
2. an apple

Two people you last talked to

1. Ashlyn
2. Layton

Two things you're doing tomorrow

1. running
2. I'm sure I will be cleaning at some point in the day (again!)

Two longest car rides

1. moving as a child from the coast of Virginia to Boulder, CO
2. Searcy, Arkansas to Naples, Florida on spring break

Two favorite holidays

1. Christmas
2. my kids' birthdays (oops, '3' again!)

Two favorite beverages

1. Diet Green Tea from Lipton
2. Coca-Cola Zero

Two favorite TV shows

1. Divine Design on HGTV
2. Toss-up between House-Hunters and Designed to Sell (also on HGTV)

A "Marathon" Entry

2008-01-15T19:14:00.000-08:00

As promised, here are some pictures (and my account) of marathon day. Get ready, this may be a long one...

Here's a pic of my dad (who came all the way from Missouri to see me race) and me in the port-a-can line. Being a newbie at the whole marathon "thing", I was not aware that there were outrageous lines just to go to the bathroom. I actually missed my group running club picture to stand in this line before the race. The wait actually took about a half-an-hour, so I thought I'd snap a quick picture while we were in line. For those of you who have been in a race before, you know what I mean when I tell you that the port-a-cans are definitely part of the race experience.

After my long wait, I was off to the starting line (barely making it in time). What was really weird was that I said goodbye to my dad a block or two before the start line and he somehow ended up standing right next to my spot (among thousands) in line. Here's me after I spotted my dad on the sidewalk, nervously waiting to go. Having my dad there was such a comfort to me. He has always been there for me and it was really special to have him there waiting on the sidelines to see me go.
I wish I had more pictures of me actually running the race, but they wouldn't be pretty. I won't say that I wasn't smiling through some of it, but the last half of it was really more of a wincing expression on my face. My mind and my body were definitely having it out...

Here's a picture of my wonderful in-laws and kids who came along with my hubby and dad to watch me in the race. It was so wonderful to see their smiling faces. It actually gave me a second wind (for awhile) until I got tired again.

Here's me about to cross the finish line. I definitely did not feel like smiling or running for that matter, but I was determined to finish strong. It helped that my running buddy Jessica caught up with me and we crossed the line together.

I couldn't finish this post without posting my video clip crossing the finish line. I'm the one in the orange shirt with the white/black cap running/hobbling in with my friend, Jessica (who's in the turquoise sleeveless shirt).

I'll have to say this event was one of the hardest things I've ever had to voluntarily go through. There were different times during this event where I felt like 'enough is enough'! But I kept imagining my mom encouraging me (or rather, giving me a good kick in the backside) to keep on going. My only regret was that I did not do this while she was alive. I know my family and friends are all proud of me, but I especially know that she is in heaven looking down on me smiling.

Done at last!!!!

2008-01-13T13:05:00.000-08:00

Well, it's official. I have completed my first marathon in 5 hours 1 minute and 4 seconds, and let me tell you I am tired!!! It was definitely one of the hardest things I've ever done in my life! At the end of my race, I even shed a few tears. I can definitely say that the race was an extreme mental and emotional test, not to mention a physically challenging one. I actually got to run with some of my running club friends along the way, but nothing could beat seeing my sweet family along the route. I want to thank my dear family and my friends who supported me all along my journey. More pictures to come in a later post, but right now, I'm getting some sleep!!

Calm, Cool and Collected--yeah right!

2008-01-09T10:36:00.000-08:00

As most of you may know, I have been training for the past six months to run in my first marathon. Since this momentous occasion is to occur this Sunday, all of my running coaches, the marathon newsletters, etc. have been telling me to take it easy, don't be stressed out. Easier said than done. This week has been made for stress!
Let me give you a little rundown of this past week's events (so far!)...
Sunday evening, I realized I could not find my precious wedding ring. After countless searches through the house and the trash (Yuck--thank you, Jason!) it was nowhere to be found. After many a tear was shed and a sleepless night was to be had, I luckily found it the next day under one of the candles on my dresser--I shouldn't say 'luck' because we prayed about it at Mother's Day Out that day. Oh, speaking of Mother's Day Out...I found out at school on Tuesday that one of the kids in the other 2-year old class (next to Layton's) had head lice. So (big sigh) after thoroughly checking their hair and scalps and washing their hair I declared my kids lice-free (fingers crossed!). Am I stress-free? Not yet!
Stressful event no. 3: Since we just recently had a cold snap, I decided to turn our heater back on. What happened you might ask? Oh, nothing--just a serious burning gas smell. After we called a technician to come over to our house, he said that if the breaker had not tripped a fire could have started in our attic. AARRRRGHHHH! The remedy? Only a few thousand dollars to have it fixed. Yes, all on the eve of my marathon weekend. Tell me this week gets better...

Chewy stops the chatter...I wish!

2008-01-06T13:11:00.000-08:00

Well, the holidays are over and my mind has been in a bit of a fog. After all the traveling, unwrapping, Christmas party-going, sorting, organizing and putting-away of all things Christmas, I realized I had been suffering from a tremendous 'blog' writer's block. My nightly dialogue (with myself--scary isn't it?!) when I did find a moment to sit at the computer had been something like this,"Should I post pictures of my holiday travels, log all of my adventures or memorable moments on my blog?""Should I write about something funny/sad/happy?" "Should I post about the New Year's resolutions that I haven't even started working towards yet?" Still feeling slightly uninspired to pen anything to paper (or in reality, type something on my computer), I decided to wait until something popped up in my head to log for future reading. After reading one of my friends blog's (thank you Holly!) of an embarrassing moment, I suddenly felt inspired. I decided I would post some very interesting experiences of mine from holiday vacation. No, it's not about sledding in Illinois, watching it snow, eating with family (at countless restaurants), visiting my Great-Aunt Agnes, who at 99 years old is my Grandpa's youngest sister--no, not anything like that. I wanted to post something that is magically found, quite often, between a mother and her children. EMBARRASSMENT!
I had the opportunity of hearing my daughter voice her honest observations on everything in the world around her. (Boy, that's a fancy way of saying it, isn't it?). This past holiday my sweet, dear daughter Ashlyn embarrassed me--BIG TIME! Once, it occurred when we were leaving a favorite eating establishment of mine, 'Steak 'n Shake'. For those of you who are not familiar with this restaurant, it is similar to Fuddruckers (probably not as fancy or good--but it's not a franchise in Texas so I just HAVE to go there when we are up to visit!) Anyhoo (back to my story), as my dad was carrying Ashlyn out of the restaurant, she calmly said 'out loud', "Grandpa, why is there fur in your boogers?" After he and I shushed her, since it was said quite plainly in front of other restaurant patrons, he laughingly replied, "Honey, that's just Grandpa's nose hair." Okay, maybe not so embarrassing (for me!) and slightly cute. But, not so long after...
Flash forward to the bathroom at a nearby Wal-Mart. I am taking Ashlyn for a potty-break before we have to get in the car and travel again from the farm in Missouri to St. Louis. As I am washing up her hands to leave the bathroom, a very large woman comes into the bathroom. As she is walking past us smiling, Ashlyn starts to say, "Mama, she's....", "Mama, she's..." not quite finding the words for what she wants to say. As I rapidly (and in a panic) tried to finish drying her hands before she got out of her mouth what I feared she'd say, the dreaded word came out (and very loudly I might add!). "Mama, she's fat. Mama, she's fat." Cue the dying inside... I was mortified! Luckily the poor woman had just walked into the stall so she wasn't looking at us when Ashlyn said it, but just the same--it was a very awkward moment! I just quickly whisked her out of the bathroom, wished to myself that I could for once be quicker helping her wash her hands, and calmly explained to her that we don't call people 'that word' because it's not a nice word and it may hurt their feelings. She just calmly answered back, "Okay, mama" and went innocently on her way, while I 'm sure that poor woman was crying to herself in the bathroom stall (okay, she may have not been crying, but I'm sure she was hurt!) After I had paced back and forth for awhile outside the bathroom debating whether or not to see if that poor woman was okay, and deciding that that would be a bad idea, I quickly rounded everyone up and booked it out of there! It was a truly embarrassing experience, but I know it is only one of many to come!

Do you ever find yourself in this situation after a very innocent, but embarrassing observation comes out of your child's mouth?

21 Miles!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-12-15T09:09:00.001-08:00

Well, it's official. After 4 hours of running I finally passed the 20 mile mark. In the spirit of the marathon (since MP3 players are not allowed), I decided to forego my MP3 player and actually run without music! Crazy you might say?! Well, actually today it was kind of nice--for the most part. Since I was missing my usual running partners to talk to during the run, I had some quiet time to myself to think. A LOT of quiet time. What did I think about during those long hours, you might ask? Well, here are my thoughts in a nutshell--I made out grocery lists, Christmas lists, sung a few Christmas carols over (and over) and even had a Kenny Rogers song stuck in my head for about 2 to 3 miles (who knows how that got in there!) Anyway, after about 14 or so miles of singing (in my head) and pondering life's mysteries, it started to pour! I'd like to say that it was a nice warm rain, but in reality it was freezing! I was actually beginning to wonder if hail was coming down, it was hitting me so hard. Did I mention that there were 40 mile an hour winds blowing at me for several miles?! Okay...maybe the wind wasn't blowing me that hard, but it was enough to push me back in my steps a few times. With the cold rain pelting me and the wind in my face (not to mention a few cars that got too close to the side of the road and splashed water all over me--nice!), all I could do was put one foot in front of the other--it was brutal! Sorry, to have such a flair for the dramatic, but let's just say I've seen better days. But one image kept playing over and over in my head to motivate me to keep going. This....

My dear husband put this note in my car (taped to my steering wheel) the night before. In my whole conglomeration of random thoughts, this note kept popping up in my head. My motivation to continue on (besides get out of the rain!) was due to my loving husband and kids who believed I could do it. And I did.

Wordless Wednesday (The Holiday Edition)

2007-12-12T09:16:00.000-08:00

Breakfast with Santa & other Christmas Happenin's

2007-12-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

Lately, there has been a plethora of Christmas events going on in our area. Since its been busy, busy, busy around the house with Christmas decorating, gingerbread train making (or really eating, since the train never actually got made!) or Christmas shopping, we've really tried to do more fun things with our family rather than get wrapped up completely in the business of the season. Just this past week, we took our kids along with some friends to the 'Festival of Lights' in nearby Dickinson, Texas. The two big draws to the event--the holiday lights and the fact that it was 'free' (you can't beat that around the holidays!) Not only were there lights, there were a lot of fun things for the kids to do. The park had a train that the kids could ride on! Yes, that is a 'Thomas the Tank Engine' pulling the train. Let's just say that was the first thing we did since Layton absolutely loves 'Thomas'.

No, your eyes are not deceiving you--Layton and Ashlyn are actually riding the train by themselves! No tears! I'm not sure who was more surprised that they got on it without being scared--me or the kids! Layton was actually waving at people as they were coming back around the 'track'. Just when I think I've got them all figured out...

Not only were they having train rides, they were actually having a 'Blizzard on the Bayou' section of the park with snow (okay, it wasn't actually a blizzard, more like a 9' x 9' patch of manufactured snow--but hey, what do you expect in Houston?)

The kids had fun slipping and sliding in the snow. Here's Ashlyn doing just that.

Oh yes, and you can't play in the snow without having a snowball fight. Here's Layton throwing snow at some wandering bystanders. What's funny is that he's never played in the snow, but he instinctively knows how to make snowballs (and throw them). Ah, boys will be boys...

It was definitely a fun event to take the kids too, and with the 'free' pricetag, we could even afford to get more Christmas candy (not like we needed it!)

Speaking of fun events, our kids' Mother's Day Out program hosted a Breakfast with Santa this morning. It was such a treat! The kids all lined up outside to watch Santa arrive in style on a horse and buggy (which perplexed Ashlyn who kept on asking "what happened to Santa's reindeer?") It was really funny--you would have thought a rock star was pulling up with all the screaming going on! Layton and Ashlyn were excited (not as excited as some kids!), but it was really neat to see the wonder in their faces. Once he pulled up, the kids all went back inside to hear Santa read a Christmas story, and then get their pictures with Santa.

Okay...if your kids are anything like my kids in past years, the thought of sitting on Santa's lap would literally send them screaming. So, I kept wondering to myself, "Is this the year they will actually sit on his lap?" Well, this year we ended up getting both of them on his lap for a quick picture before Ashlyn darted off. Layton pleasantly surprised me (again!) by telling Santa what he wanted for Christmas. "Cars...(not one, but) two cars".

After pictures, the kids were off to the craft tables. Here's Layton and Ashlyn making one of three crafts. There were beads, glue and glitter--lots of it. Very messy, but oh so fun for the kids.

Here's Layton proudly showing off the beaded Christmas tree/pipe cleaner that he made.

After Ashlyn's (20th) time on the moonwalk, we finally went home. We had a ball!

What are some of your favorite things to do with your family around the holiday season?

Wordless Wednesday

2007-12-05T19:03:00.000-08:00

"I've got the power..."

2007-12-01T08:29:00.000-08:00

I know what you're thinking--how old is this song?! I know this is a flash from the past, but if I could pick one song to sum up how I feel today, its this one! Can't you just see me dancing along?! You would be dancing too if you just ran 19 MILES! Okay, maybe I'm not dancing, just gingerly sidestepping across the floor without too much weight on my left knee. But after a good ice bath, (yes, my first ice bath! I am a true athlete now!) I am dancing around my living room! I reached a milestone--didn't think I could do it, but now I have!!! And all on the eve of my 33rd birthday...

26.2 miles in January--Bring it on!!

Girl Time

2007-11-20T11:50:00.000-08:00

Ashlyn and I just recently got to spend some one-on-one time this past weekend at a 'Nutcracker Breakfast'. I am always amazed at how much Ashlyn reminds me of myself as a child, but also just how much of her own person she is already becoming. She is such a lively, imaginative girl and she's just plain fun to be around! She's either turned into a 'mini-me' or my mom reincarnated. (Watch out karaoke, here she comes!). I hope Ashlyn never loses that fun-loving, creative outlook on life. Here's to my dear, dear Ashlyn and many more fun 'girl-times' together.

Semi-Wordless Wednesday

2007-11-14T19:48:00.000-08:00

What Daddy does while Mommy is away...

"The Three Little Pigs"--aren't they cute?!

A "Weighty" Issue

2007-11-12T19:33:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'm about to jump on my soapbox so get ready... Why, oh why are females (a.k.a. me) always so obsessed about our weight? What seems to have been on the 'backburner' in my mind has recently come to the forefront. Why now, you ask? Well, it seems that I have recently started to regain a little bit of the weight that I lost after Layton. And I am NOT HAPPY ABOUT IT! What irritates me the most about the whole issue is that I am probably in the best shape of my life being able to run long distances while I'm training for the marathon, but since I don't wear a size 2, it doesn't matter. (Okay, I don't think I've ever worn a size 2, except maybe when I was in junior high?), but that doesn't make me feel better. Since when is a woman's size/weight an indicator of her self-worth? Why is it that when we gain weight, we suddenly aren't the same smart, funny, capable women we were when we weighed less? I know a 'good' weight/size is relative for everyone, since my weight could be someone else's goal weight--but I know I look at other people wishing that I was their weight/size (is that bad?!) Sorry for the 'Debbie-Downer' post, but that's how I feel lately...

Am I alone in this, or is anyone else tired of looking in the 'fun-house' mirror?

A Surprise Weekend

2007-11-07T13:41:00.000-08:00

Some friends of mine and I hopped into the car, an SUV actually, (minus kids and husbands) with one goal in mine--surprise the pants off our friend, Lacie (and boy did we!) Since Lacie's 30th birthday was fast approaching, a plan was hatched--surprise Lacie for her birthday by showing up at her house in Brock, TX (which is about 5 hours away. 6 with construction on the road.) With any great plan, there were a few kinks. Construction on the freeway put us back an hour, so we were racing to get things ready before we got to Brock. Here's my friend, Deanna and I blowing up some of the decorations. Ah, doesn't a good road trip always bring out the kid in you?!! Actually, I don't think the 'grown-up' Maria was ever there on the trip. Boy, did we have fun!!

Once we got to Brock, we encountered a few obstacles--almost running into their house before we actually discovered they had not left for dinner yet (a long, but funny story!!), trying to get into her house without being seen--but we did it! Here's Lacie's surprised face.

Here's us in our 'party' wear.

Our next days and nights consisted of staying up late, talking, and 'pigging out' at the local cafe with about 'a jillion' desserts--but mostly, laughing, laughing, and laughing (I can't remember having laughed that much in a long time!) Once we got back, we just had to go surprise another one of my friends, Robyn, for her 30th by showing up on her 'new' doorstep at 10:00 pm to wish her Happy Birthday/Housewarming. It was truly a Surprise weekend!

Message from kiddos

2007-11-02T23:03:00.000-07:00

Halloween 2007

2007-11-01T08:33:00.001-07:00

Here's a few pics of my kids (a.k.a. Supergirl and 'The Boxer') on Halloween. Aren't they cute?

Here are the kids in a rare picture moment together. Layton was convinced he was dressed up as 'Superman', so we just went along with it. He sooo much wanted to be Superman since Ashlyn was Supergirl. He's such an adoring little brother!
Since they had a Halloween parade at Mother's Day Out, I couldn't resist posting a few of those pictures. Here's Ashlyn doing her runway walk...

Daddy and Layton.

Hope your Halloween was a fun one!!

My first 'half' -- Ooh, Rah!

2007-10-29T19:01:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, I reached a milestone: my first half-marathon. For those of you who know me (or have been keeping up with my blog), I started a marathon training program in July with the hopes of completing the Chevron Houston Marathon in January (and still be standing after it was over!). Well, I have been lucky enough to be introduced to my first actual races through this program: a 5-miler, a 10-miler this past month and most recently the half-marathon. Since I am a born worrier (I'd worry about nothing if I could do it--in fact I think I have!), I've been worried about how I'd do on Sunday's race, "would I be able to complete the half without my knee pain flaring up?", "would I know where to park, where to go, etc.", even "would I be able to make it to the starting line without catching my daughter's cold?". Well, all my questions were answered as usual before Sunday (thank you God) and I made it to the starting line. The weather was perfect except for the cool temperatures in the morning. I think it was in the low 50's (my father in Missouri would be laughing at this one--weather is soooo relative, isn't it?) but once I got going, I felt great. After a hard run up and down the hills of Allen Parkway (again, so relative, isn't it?) I ran across the finish line.

Here's me with my race medal. My knees were aching, but I still got my race "bling".

Here's me with the 'fam'. You can definitely tell the kids had just gotten up. Jason had just got them out of bed to come see mommy finish her race. I'm not sure if the kids saw me or not, but Layton kept telling me, "Mommy, I proud of you". My family always make my heart smile.

I am so blessed to have such a wonderful husband who supports me in everything I do. Not only does he support and encourage me in all my running endeavors by coming to my races and watching the kids so I can do my training runs, he is my No. 1 fan at home. I am so thankful for his support, because without him I wouldn't be able to accomplish many of my life goals. I don't know what I have done in my life to end up with such a wonderful man, but I thank God every day for it! I am truly blessed.

The Great Outdoors

2007-10-23T18:37:00.001-07:00

This past weekend, the family and I headed out to spend a weekend in 'The Great Outdoors' (a.k.a. Huntsville State Park) with some of our nearest (and not so near) and dearest friends. Of course, we almost didn't make it due to my dear husband's last-minute food poisoning (that's a whole other story), but luckily, we made it safe and sound to the park on Friday night as promised. Here's a rundown of our fun camping weekend in pictures (of course!)

Here's what we got to wake up each morning. Peaceful, isn't it?

It was so cold the first night and morning, that my dear husband had to 'wear' his blanket. Let's just say the guys got a good laugh out of this one!

Here's Ashlyn and her friend, Haleigh, enjoying the outdoors. Ashlyn is such a cut-up, I wonder where she gets it from? Hmmmm.....

Here's Layton and Jason taking a little afternoon nap in our shelter. They look so cozy, don't they?

Here's my dear friends in our 'Camping Diva' shirts. You didn't think that just because we were out in the wilderness, we couldn't look cute??!!!

Here's a picture of all our kids. If you look closely enough, you can see all the dirt on their little faces. Oh, to be a kid again...

Here I am roasting marshmallows with the kids for our s'mores. Poor Layton kept dragging his marshmallows in the dirt after he roasted them, so we had to do his twice. (Good thing, we had the chocolate from the previous s'mores to eat until we could get the marshmallows roasted!)

The Stansell family sitting down for a picture. I don't even think I noticed that the kids weren't sitting still for this picture until after I saw it. Oh well, one of these days we'll get a good family picture.

We are so blessed to have such wonderful friends to do things like this with. It was definitely a fun time had by all! Now, back to the daily grind...Until next time!

Wordless Wednesday

2007-10-17T16:53:00.000-07:00

"Do, Re, Mi..."

2007-10-15T20:50:00.000-07:00

On a recent trip to the library, I picked up a cd in the children's section, entitled 'A Child's Celebration of Showtunes'. On this particular cd, it featured classic songs from the original cast recordings of a variety of Broadway shows. 'The Sound of Music', 'Fiddler on the Roof', 'The King and I' are just some of the shows that it featured. I was in heaven! As the song 'Do, Re, Mi' came on, I could just picture Maria Von Trapp singing with the Von Trapp children as they were picnicking by the Alps. Oh, how those movie scenes made me wish I was one of the Von Trapp children (okay, maybe not a Von Trapp in real-life since the Nazi's were taking over Austria at that time, but you get the picture...) All those songs made me revisit my old love of movie musicals. (Is there anyone on the planet who does not like 'The Sound of Music'?)

Speaking of movie musicals, I happened to come across another great movie musical, 'Grease' as I was flipping through the channels the other night. One of my all-time favorites! I knew all the songs of 'Grease' like the back of my hand! 'Grease' was one of my mother's favorite movies when I was a child and I grew up singing all of the songs like they were nursery rhymes. In fact, my sister, Jackie, and I made a tape recording when we were preschool age of 'You're the one that I want' from the movie (if only we knew what we were singing!) I think Jackie and I both wanted to be Sandy in the movie (of course, who wouldn't want to look as great as she did at the end of the movie and end up with John Travolta!) Anyhoo...(back to my train of thought--sorry about that) I forgot just how much I loved watching movies like those and singing along with all of the songs. Of course, my beloved husband, Jason, would have to disagree with me on some of my movie tastes (he cannot stand 'Grease' or 'Annie', two of my all time faves!) But I just love 'em!

'Grease', 'Annie', 'My Fair Lady', and 'The Sound of Music' are some of my all time faves! What are some of your favorite movie musicals?

Harvey

2007-10-14T16:18:00.001-07:00

This past Friday, Jason and I had the opportunity to see the play, 'Harvey', at the Pasadena Little Theatre. What made the play so special was that Jason's mom, Glenda, had a part in it. Since it was opening night, we took the kids up to the play as well. Let's just say that's when the "fear" set in...After we sat down, the director got up and made an announcement for everyone to "turn their cell phones and pagers off and to stay seated until intermission since the actors would be going in and out of the entrance doors". (Can you see the sweat start beading up on my forehead?!) Needless to say, thanks to some snacks (thank goodness for goldfish!) and yes, some good behavior on the kids' parts, we made it through the first Act of the play without any loud tantrums or screaming. Despite the 'fear' of the kids misbehaving during the play, the first Act was really good! It was also very touching for the kids to see their 'Mamie' acting in a play. The kids were so excited to see her when she came out and were so quiet the whole time she was performing. At the end of the play, Ashlyn told us that she wanted to reach out and hug her, but that she couldn't reach her. How sweet is that?! I'm just so glad that the kids got to see her in a different setting, not just as their 'Mamie', but as Glenda, doing something that she loves.

If you want to catch a great play, 'Harvey' is running through until the last weekend in October. Check it out--you'll enjoy it!

Do you have some 'memorable' experiences at shows/theaters with your kids? I'd love to hear 'em!

Wordless Wednesday

2007-10-10T18:52:00.000-07:00

"The rain, rain, rain came down, down, down..."

2007-10-07T06:47:00.000-07:00

No, I'm not going to start singing this Disney song (this was in Bambi, right?!) but for some reason, this song popped in my head as I was thinking about Saturday morning. Unfortunately, unlike most people's Saturdays where they get to sleep in until noon--I got to get up at my usual time (before the crack of dawn--otherwise known as 5:00 am) to go meet my running club for my long-distance run. I stumbled sleepily out the door, drove to our usual meeting place at the Clear Lake High School (yes, I drove there right after I "stumbled sleepily" out the door--scary, isn't it?), stepped out of the car to meet my running group and then the heavens opened up. As I was kicking myself for not staying in bed, I thought to myself, "Is there a way I can discreetly sneak away to my car without the rest of my group knowing?" "Is my running group going to think I'm a wimp?" But before I had a chance to think any further and debate my future social standing in my group, our group's organizer, Angie, spoke over the loudspeaker--"What are you going to do today? What if it is raining on marathon day? What are you going to do then? Not do it?! You have a choice..." Well, my choice was to run my scheduled 9-mile run in the rain (a.k.a. torrential downpour). I'll have to say I was miserable--spitting the rain out of my mouth, stepping in puddle after puddle, and using my hands as windshield wipers to wipe the rain out of my eyes, but...I did it! No one can stop me now! I'm strong! I'm invincible! Now, if only I don't catch pneumonia...

A Tribute to Lily (1946-2005)

2007-10-01T10:59:00.000-07:00

The end of September was the 2nd anniversary of my mother’s death and I wanted to take the opportunity to write about her--the mom I knew that not a lot of people did. My mother was born and raised on a small island in the Philippines and she used to tell me the most interesting stories about growing up. She told me about how a boy on the island used to jump out from behind her and scare her on her walk to school, so she told me that one day she took a knife and hid it in her clothes, and as she put it, “he never bothered me again”. Or her story about how she unknowingly worked for the black market out of college and how she was kidnapped and the CIA got involved. Her most poignant story was about how she was (7 years old?) at the time and was told to watch the dinner cooking while her older brother took care of the house and her other siblings (she was one of ten!) while her mother was just recovering from giving birth and how their hut and everything in it was set on fire and they lost everything. She did tell me about how my grandmother and grandfather never blamed her or said anything to her again about it and just rebuilt it and went on. (I guess after that story, nothing my kids do should ever matter that much either!) When she was a teenager, she was a nanny for a US couple and came to the States back in the Civil Rights times and she would tell me about how she felt being of a different color than most. When she was a teenager, both her parents had died, so when she married my dad she came over to this country by herself, parentless. Every known soul, except my dad was still in the Philippines. She made me see just how strong and daring she was and how she lived a life of adventure. She was strong, independent and bold, and she didn’t care what people thought. She always spoke her mind, so what you saw was what you got. My mother was a larger-than-life personality for her 4’11” frame. The only word I could use to describe my mom was ‘over-the-top’. She was a fireball and I honestly grew up thinking she was not afraid of anyone or anything.
On the contrary, she was also a very kind, hospitable woman, who never met a stranger. She was very social and could strike up a conversation with anybody from off the street and invite them to our home. She loved to have people over after church and would cram our house full just to enjoy their company. She was a terrific cook and she always cooked enough for an army, even though there were only four of us.
She was a very extravagant lady and she loved to shop. She loved ‘bling’, not the costume jewelry, but the real stuff. I think she could have hocked her jewelry collection and bought a small country, considering how extensive it was. She always joked that she would ‘come back and haunt my dad’s second wife’ if he remarried if he ever gave her any of my mom’s old jewelry. You would think it was funny, except for the serious look in her eyes! If anyone could come back as a ghost, my mom would because if she said it she meant it!
She loved to learn knew things. She cooked, she sewed, she played the guitar, and she even took piano lessons herself for awhile. She also took small engine repair classes to learn to fix our lawnmower, and upholstery. She even refinished our antique baby grand piano by hand. She loved music and she sang and played the guitar—she was even in the church singing group, ‘Sweet Adelines’ when I was a girl. She taught me about commitment. She made me stay with piano lessons for 12 years. By doing that she taught me that with commitment, things pay off. She taught me that I can’t live a life just doing things halfway.
She was a stay-at-home mom when I was little, selling Mary Kay on the side, but she decided that one day she would get a job. She didn’t want just any job, but a good-paying job for the Postal Service that she saw in an ad. So, with no experience, she studied for and took the Postal Exam and almost made a perfect score! She eventually became a Supervisor in the USPS in downtown St. Louis. She was always so proud of that story.
She worked nights for many years so that my sister and I could go to college. She was a tough, little lady and she took care of herself. She always stressed independence and practicality with us. She wanted us to be doctors, lawyers, because she thought we could be those things. Also, she always wanted us to be able to support ourselves, with or without a husband, because as she had been shown in her life that life did not always go the way you had planned.
I see her so differently now than I did when I was a kid. Now I see what great strength she had and determination to make it for herself and her family in another place, away from anything familiar. She was very determined and whatever she set her mind to, she did. She was so proud of me and my sister and my kids (Ashlyn & Layton—she loved you so much!!) and loved to brag about us all the time. I could spend pages writing about her, but I just wanted you to have a little glimpse into the person I called mom.
She taught me not to be afraid, stand up for what you think is right--no matter how big or scary someone or something is. That you can accomplish anything that you want to in life. That you are stronger than you think you are and to not take for granted the people in your life right now. To always do the right thing. When things are hard to suck it up, put on a brave face and get right back out there—that’s the way she always lived her life and I’m proud to say that I am her daughter! Mom, may God hold you in his loving arms until we meet again someday.

For those of you out there who have lost your mothers--fight to keep their memory alive so that your children and grandchildren know them. And for all of you out there who still have moms living on this earth--don't forget to tell them you love and appreciate them. Don't wait until its too late.

May God bless all our mothers out there.

Ashlyn & Layton 'On the Run'

2007-09-23T19:55:00.001-07:00

Do you ever wish that your kids could share the same hobbies that you do? Well, mine did this weekend. The running club I'm in hosted a pancake breakfast and 'Kids K' for our children to race in. It was soooooo cute!!!!! Here are some pics of the kids getting ready for the race. I had to get up early that morning to put in my miles (10 to be exact--wahooo!!!) so Jason had to get the kids ready to go by the time I came home to take them to the race. Everyone was groggy so when we got there, so I fed the kids powdered donuts until the race started. Whatever works, right?:)

Here's Ashlyn and Layton before the race started. Ashlyn was really excited to race that morning and Layton was really excited to eat powdered donuts. I guess there really is truth to the saying, "To each his own..."

Here's me with the kids before the race started. Layton wasn't too much into the race thing, so Jason decided to hold him to see if he could run with him--he still looked cute in his number though, didn't he?

Here's all the kids lined up ready to race. I think Ashlyn is in the 2nd or 3rd row from the front. I thought I got her pic, but with all the kids moving around, it was a little difficult....
Jason stayed behind with Layton, since he was a little scared, so I wasn't sure if Ashlyn would be scared or not once the race got started. Once they yelled out, "Ready, set, go", she was off!!! Once the race started, a few of the kids went down (I feared a domino effect), but A. just ran right around them and kept on going. I was so proud!!
At the end of the race, each child was given a medal a bag full of goodies and a 'SuperKid' sticker. Here's Ashlyn with her 'goodies'. She's so happy!! Who knows...maybe one day my kids and I will run the marathon together:)

I've been tagged!

2007-09-19T14:53:00.000-07:00

My sweet friend, Lacie, tagged me on a few 'remember-when's', so here goes...

1.What I was doing 10 years ago- September 1997: I was just beginning my master's program in Marriage & Family Therapy and living in Searcy, Arkansas. Jason and I had just been dating a couple of months when I started. He was living in Searcy as well and working his first job as a controller for a Hardwood Flooring plant down there. We were both busy back then with work and school but still found time to be together. I'm sure I was enjoying the fall weather in Searcy back then. I sure miss the fall season....

2. Five years ago was September 2002: Jason and I had just moved to our house in January of 2002 after having lived in Deer Park for two years. I was so excited to be in Clear Lake--close to everything. Of course, I may still be a little to close to the mall (can you ever be too close to shopping?:)

One year ago September 2006: This was a time of both good and bad remembrances. It was the one-year anniversary of my mother's death, but also the month of my dear Layton's one-year birthday--it was a bittersweet time. I think we also had flown up to spend the end of September with my family at the annual family reunion in Missouri. I'm sure we were sitting under the walnut trees at my dad's farm listening to bluegrass music. Did I mention my extended family is into bluegrass? Shocker isn't it?!! Anyway, it feels like you are living back in the turn-of-the-century when you go back there--very peaceful.

4. Yesterday, September 18: I was at Mother's Day Out teaching yesterday. Nothing eventful there, but Ashlyn and I did get to spend some one-on-one time in the evening. We went to the library and got'special treats' at Walgreens after we were done. 'Special treats' by the way, is my code name for chocolate. And yes, I do love them!

5. Snacks I enjoy: Chocolate (really any kind but most recently the Take5 bars--they are so yummy!) Swiss cheese and crackers, Godiva chocolate cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory (ok--I guess its not really a snack, more like a meal!:)

6. Things I would do if I suddenly had $100 million dollars: Where do I start? I would probably pay off all of our student loans, house, etc., give money to the church, help my dad and sister pay off any debts they may have, give money to aid in Scleroderma research and then travel, travel, travel (see below).

7.Locations I would run to: Disneyworld (a big blow-out vacation for the kids!), the Philippines (to see where my mother grew up), and any country in Europe.

8. Bad habit I have: Complaining and worrying!! Need I say more?

9. Things I like doing: Blogging (of course!), running, playing as a family at the playground, the beach, or wherever! Going on family vacations (of course, we haven't been on one lately, but when we do get to go--I like them!:), spending time with my friends, going out on dates with Jason, and laughing (a lot!)

10. Biggest Joy of the Moment: Laying in bed with my kids before they go to bed and talking to them about their day. Its so great that they are both in a conversational stage where they can talk to me. Of course, they are still little so it is quite humorous at times! I want to treasure these moments forever!

Thanks for the tag, Lacie!

I tag my sister, Jackie, next. You're it!

Ashlyn's new house

2007-09-12T12:24:00.000-07:00

As most of my friends know, my dear husband has a hobby that takes up most of the space in the garage--woodworking. He just started this hobby not too many years ago (isn't that terrible that I don't quite remember when it started? Hmmm... must have had kids by that time.) Anyway, through the years he has made some pretty incredible stuff--some tract racks for his family's tract publishing company, a humongous (as far as sandboxes go) sandbox for the kids to play in, and a toybox for Layton's room in a castle design (it's so cute!). Since I've been so impressed with his latest creation (a toybox for Ashlyn), I couldn't help sharing it with you. Isn't it amazing?! Look how Layton and Ashlyn are getting into her new, toybox/house--I'm wondering if I'll be able to get them out to actually put toys into it?:)
He picked out all the paint colors, painted it and even put cute flower knobs on her little side doors. If you look close enough, you can even see that he took the time to put real shingles on her roof (now that's a dad for you!) I appreciate you honey for all your hard work--and I know Ashlyn and Layton do too!!

My first race

2007-09-09T14:47:00.000-07:00

I guess the title is pretty self-explanatory... I had my first race on Saturday and it was a 5-miler! Let's just say my nerves were up and I pushed myself as hard as I could. I got an awesome finish time, but had a raging headache after a few hours to show for it! (Mental note--don't push that hard again!) Anyway, it was fun, it was a learning experience, and my dear husband and children were there at the finish line to cheer me in. Here's some pics of race day (just as extra proof to all those out there who couldn't believe it could be done (by me!)

Here's me at the finish line. The super-excited look on my face comes from spotting my family at the finish line waiting for me. I think I look kinda scary in this picture. Please say I don't look like this every time I'm happy to see my family (just think what I'm putting my poor children through!:)

Come to think of it, my happy face could be a result of successfully picking up my water bottle after dropping it once, trying to pick it up, kicking it a small distance and then actually picking it up after my second try. Did I mention this all happened within 20 feet of the finish line? Funny how all my embarrassing moments happen in front of like a zillion people. Okay, maybe there weren't a 'zillion' people there, but there was a crowd. At least it wasn't as I was crossing the finish line--see there's a bright side to everything:)

Here's me with the kiddos after I crossed the finish line. As you can see, both were just dying to get their picture taken with sweaty old mama (they were so excited they just couldn't stand still for the picture!) Oh, and thank goodness for Pepperidge Farm. If it wasn't for their goldfish my kids wouldn't be standing here waiting patiently for mama to come in from her race (or sitting quietly in church, or sitting still at library time, etc...)

Here's my attempt at stretching post-race. As you can see, Layton saw me sitting down and immediately sat on my lap. He probably thought I was going to read him a book...sweet boy!

Just as I'm finishing up this blog 'entry', Layton is telling me 'You race--Im proud of you, mama'. Kinda makes me want to melt! How about the rest of you 'racers' out there? Any funny or special 'first-race' memories?

Happy Birthday Layton!

2007-09-01T21:22:00.000-07:00

Yes, my dear sweet Layton has officially turned 2! (Okay, his actual birthday is not until tomorrow, but we had his "official" Thomas the Train birthday party today). As most of you parents out there can attest, time with our little ones goes way too fast! It seems like only yesterday my sweet, precious boy came into my life. I cannot believe how much he has changed since he was a little baby! Here's Layton 'through the (2) years". Flashback time. Here come the wavy lines...

Here's Layton as a newborn. He was as cute back then as he is now and look at his big eyes! Isn't he adorable! He's just the cutest baby! But not like I'm biased, or anything:)

Here's me with Layton in the hospital after he was born. Okay, I don't look that great in the picture, but I love this picture because of how happy I look in it--just don't look too close :).

Okay, here's some other pics of Layton. Not sure how old he is in some of them, but isn't he cute!!!! Look at those chubby cheeks, just makes you want to pinch them!

Here's Layton in some of Ashlyn's sunglasses (he still wants to have whatever Ashlyn has!) Some things never change!

Here's Layton at his 1st birthday party last year. He doesn't look too different here, and boy does he still love his sweets! (Just like his momma!)

Thanks for indulging a sentimental mom by looking at my pictures. What a blessing and a gift from God my sweet Layton has been to me (and Ashlyn too!). Here's to many more...

The End of Summer/The Perfect '10'

2007-08-24T19:29:00.000-07:00

With school fast approaching and summer slowly coming to an end, we thought this was the perfect opportunity to spend some time at the beach. Since we rarely get out of the Clear Lake area to eat dinner, we thought we'd mix it up a little bit and take the kids to the Rainforest Cafe in Galveston and go to the beach. Since the kids didn't seem to take to the beach very well during our beach house vacation this summer, we weren't sure how they'd do. But once they warmed up, they really seemed to enjoy it. The kids had a ball!

Here's Layton playing with another boy his age on the beach (Layton is the one in the back). We think he's found his long-lost twin. They look so much alike, don't they? Weird, huh?

Here's some other pics of the kids at the beach. Ashlyn is playing with one of the frogs we got the kids at the Rainforest Cafe. You didn't think we'd make it out of there without buying something for the kids, did you?:) Of course, we had to buy something for Layton after he fell out of his booster seat at the restaurant. Yes, Layton had another accident. I'm beginning to wonder if he's somehow inherited my penchant for having freak accidents. Of course, he's doing perfectly fine at the beach. My poor, sweet boy...

Flashback to the '70's. Here's Ashlyn pretending to be Bo Derek in the movie '10', minus the cornrows...

Here's Layton in his '10' moment. Hope having mommy in the background, doesn't spoil it!

Hope your summer was wonderful too! How are you spending your 'last days of summer'?

Whew! I'm tired!

2007-08-21T16:58:00.000-07:00

Training for a marathon is hard. Its tiring waking up early to run (yes, waking up at 5:00 a.m. does get old after awhile!), and its both physically and mentally exhausting. One of the ladies that ran next to me at our speed interval training this morning asked me, "what made you want to do this?" Good question, I thought. What makes me want to do something like this. I don't know. Maybe its the fact that it burns about a zillion calories and gives you great leg muscles (which I'm still hoping for), or maybe its for the stress relief I get after a really good run. But I really think it comes down to me answering the question for myself, "What am I really capable of?" Running helps answer that question for me. After running 8 miles on Saturday (yes, the farthest I have ever run in my life! Wahoo!), I discovered that there is something deep inside me that's driving this whole thing--determination. I want to show not only me, but my kids that they can do anything that they put their minds too. Ashlyn & Layton, this is for you...

Big Boy Bed

2007-08-18T18:47:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official now! Layton has actually moved out of his crib into a big boy bed! Sniff, sniff (here, let me wipe a tear out of my eye before I proceed...)
Since Layton is so close to turning two, we decided that it would be a neat birthday present to get him a fun toddler bed that he could sleep in. We got a great deal on this cool 'Thomas the Train' bed, so we thought, "Why not now?” So, Layton now has an official ‘big boy bed’ in his room.

Here's Layton standing in front of his new 'Thomas' bed. Note: Ashlyn’s foot is in the background (hee, hee) . She has been playing in his bed ever since we put it up! Ashlyn loves the bed almost as much as he does, so it has been a little bit of a challenge to get her out of his bed so that he could try it out!

Here's Layton playing in his bed. This photo was hard to take since Layton kept putting the covers over his face and hiding. Luckily, I was able to pull the cover off his head just in time for Jason to snap the picture without him crying. The things we parents do to get a good picture...

Suprisingly, Layton adjusted very well to his new bed! Jason put him to bed this evening and he said Layton just got in his bed, laid down and went to sleep! I’m so thankful that this has been an easy transition for him! Since he did so well his first night in his new bed, I just couldn’t resist sneaking in and taking a pic.

Isn’t he adorable? Sweet dreams, my dear baby boy…

The School of Hard Knocks

2007-08-16T20:44:00.001-07:00

Wow! Looking at the post below about the girl I was years ago really made me see how different I was then from how I am today. I'd like to say that I was perfect all through my life up to this point, but I know that is not true. I've learned 'the hard way' throughout my life that the Bible is very real and very true. It's amazing how easy your life goes when you follow what the Bible says and how difficult and complex you can make life for yourself when you do contrary to what it says. I'm so thankful that Jason and I have grown up together throughout our relationship. Now we ask ourselves, "What does the Bible say about it?" when we are dealing with our marriage or our children because we know from experience that what the Bible says is true.
My prayer is that I can raise my children to be caring, compassionate, gentle individuals who have a great love for God and a strong concern and compassion for their fellow man. I'm still not perfect, but I want my children to know that its okay to make mistakes, but to keep trying to be a better person every day. To me, that is the greatest goal I can have.

8 Things About My Marriage

2007-08-16T08:08:00.000-07:00

I’ve been tagged, (my first tag!) by my friends, Holly and Lacie to answer some questions about how I met, fell in love and married Jason. Here goes…

8 Things About My Marriage

1. Where did you meet your husband? We met while we were both attending Harding University in Arkansas. We knew who the other was, but we didn’t actually meet until the end of our college careers.

2. What was the first thing you said? I’m not sure what I said. I’m sure it was something clever and witty, like “So you’re Jason Stansell, the guy all the girls in the dorm talk about.” Let’s just say he was a secret crush of some girls I knew.

3. Where was your first date? One of my friends, Claire, asked me to go to Memphis with her and her friend, Todd, to see a concert. She was friends with Todd, but liked him as more than a friend and wanted me to go for moral support. Jason tagged along with Todd, so I guess we were the tag-alongs for their “date”. We drove to Memphis State (or was it University of Memphis?) in Todd’s tiny Mitsubishi 3000GT to see the Gin Blossoms/Dishwalla in concert (yes, this was ages ago, when these bands were actually popular!) After the concert, we ate ribs in downtown Memphis off Beale Street at a restaurant called ‘The Rendezvous’.

Here is a picture of Jason and I on our “first date” (thankfully, my friend, Claire, thought this was an important enough event to take a picture!) I think I knew then that we were meant to be together, since he was as big a goofball as I was.

After this date, we started hanging out a lot, doing things together with our friends, Claire and Todd. Here we all are on the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. Note: I’m hanging onto Todd’s arm and Claire’s touching Jason’s hand. Don’t ask me what’s going on, because I’m not really sure…(Todd was just a friend, but maybe Claire had a secret crush on Jason?…Hmmm)

First kiss?
It was towards the end of that year, we went to a music festival in Memphis, called ‘Memphis in May’ (I guess we were both really into concerts back then!) and had our first kiss at a club in downtown Memphis called, ‘616’ (yes, I was a ‘party girl’ back then). I’ll have to say that it was the best kiss I ever had—I think we both felt weak in the knees then.

4. Long or short courtship? We went out on a couple of dates April/May of 1996, but had to go back home from college for the summer. We corresponded with a few letters and phone calls, but didn’t reconnect until the Summer of 2007, when we both discovered we were back in Arkansas for summer school. After that, we dated for about 2 1/2 years before we actually got married.

5. Where were we engaged? Jason proposed to me at my apartment on Memorial Day 1999. I was living in Arkansas finishing up grad school and he was living and working in Houston at the time. He came up to visit me and proposed. He also did the traditional thing by calling and asking my dad for my hand in marriage.

6. Where were we married? We were married at my home church in Collinsville, Illinois, January 15, 2000 by Jason’s grandfather, Delton Haun. Delton just recently passed away, so it was very special to have had that memory of him performing our ceremony.
You can imagine how cold it was in Illinois that time of the year. I'm sure Jason's family was freezing when they camp up for the wedding. I remember being really nervous about his family coming up for the wedding, because my family and his family had never met. Since they were traveling so far, my mother offered to put them up at our house. Luckily, everyone got along and remained good friends afterwards.

7. Where was the reception? The reception was in the church’s fellowship hall. My mom pretty much catered the entire reception for 100-150 people (she was amazing!)

8. Where was your honeymoon? We went to San Antonio for our honeymoon. Since Jason was working for a terrible company at the time (Sysco!), he only had about four or five days off of work for our wedding and honeymoon, so we had to make it quick. We did have a wonderful time for the amount of time we were there. After that, I was an official Texan.

Here’s us at the Tower of Americas in San Antonio on our honeymoon. I was skinny then (sigh…

good times, good times!)

Thanks for the tag, Holly and Lacie! It’s been fun walking down memory lane again.
I tag Deanna, Robyn and Heather. You’re it!

Motherhood

2007-08-15T12:48:00.000-07:00

I wish I could tell you who wrote this, but I don’t know. One of my friends e-mailed me this and I thought I’d post it--I guess it just struck a chord. Okay you moms out there, get a tissue…

Motherhood

We are sitting at lunch one day when my daughter casually mentions that she and her husband are thinking of "starting a family."
"We're taking a survey," she says half-joking. "Do you think I should have a baby?" "It will change your life," I say, carefully keeping my tone neutral. "I know," she says, "no more sleeping in on weekends, no more spontaneous vacations."But that is not what I meant at all. I look at my daughter, trying to decide what to tell her. I want her to know what she will never learn in childbirth classes. I want to tell her that the physical wounds of childbearing will heal, but becoming a mother will leave her with an emotional wound so raw that she will forever be vulnerable. I consider warning her that she will never again read a newspaper without asking, "What if that had been MY child?" That every plane crash, every house fire will haunt her. That when she sees pictures of starving children, she will wonder if anything could be worse than watching your child die. I look at her carefully manicured nails and stylish suit and think that no matter how sophisticated she is, becoming a mother will reduce her to the primitive level of a bear protecting her cub. That an urgent call of "Mom!" will cause her to drop a soufflé or her best crystal without a moments hesitation. I feel that I should warn her that no matter how many years she has invested in her career, she will be professionally derailed by motherhood. She might arrange for childcare, but one day she will be going into an important business meeting and she will think of her baby's sweet smell. She will have to use every ounce of discipline to keep from running home, just to make sure her baby is all right. I want my daughter to know that every day decisions will no longer be routine. That a five year old boy's desire to go to the men's room rather than the women's at McDonald's will become a major dilemma. That right there, in the midst of clattering trays and screaming children, issues of independence and gender identity will be weighed against the prospect that a child molester may be lurking in that restroom. However decisive she may be at the office, she will second-guess herself constantly as a mother. Looking at my attractive daughter, I want to assure her that eventually she will shed the pounds of pregnancy, but she will never feel the same about herself. That her life, now so important, will be of less value to her once she has a child. That she would give herself up in a moment to save her offspring, but will also begin to hope for more years, not to accomplish her own dreams, but to watch her child accomplish theirs. I want her to know that a cesarean scar or shiny stretch marks will become badges of honor. My daughter's relationship with her husband will change, and not in the way she thinks. I wish she could understand how much more you can love a man who is careful to powder the baby or who never hesitates to play with his child. I think she should know that she will fall in love with him again for reasons she would now find very unromantic. I wish my daughter could sense the bond she will feel with women throughout history who have tried to stop war, prejudice and drunk driving. I want to describe to my daughter the exhilaration of seeing your child learn to ride a bike. I want to capture for her the belly laugh of a baby who is touching the soft fur of a dog or cat for the first time. I want her to taste the joy that is so real it actually hurts. My daughter's quizzical look makes me realize that tears have formed in my eyes. "You'll never regret it," I finally say. Then I reached across the table, squeezed my daughter's hand and offered a silent prayer for her, and for me, and for all the mere mortal women who stumble their way into this most wonderful of callings. May you always have in your arms the one who is in your heart.

Author Unknown

Think Positive!

2007-08-10T12:11:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had one of those days/weeks when you feel like you haven't done anything right as a wife/mother/sister/daughter/human being?! Well, I have...and it doesn't feel so great! After ranting and raving to my dear husband, he suggested that maybe I should start talking about more positive things. Of course, you can imagine my reaction at the beginning...but, you know what? I think he's on to something! So here goes nothing, my list of things to be happy about:

My fantastic husband. He loves me, supports me and is always there for me. Not to mention, he's always honest with me and tells me what I need to hear (even if I don't always like it) . We all need someone in our life that loves us that much, don't we? Love you, darling!
My dear, dear children. Even though sometimes I get frazzled, I wouldn't trade having these two wonderful children for anything in the world. They have brought me so much joy in good times and definitely in times when I have been at my lowest. As you mothers know, there's nothing like the feeling you get when your child hugs/kisses you and tells you, 'Momma, I love you'. There's nothing like it in the world!:) (I feel tears coming on!).
My wonderful church and church family--I am so lucky to have so many wonderful, supportive people who continuously encourage me and support me.
My group of 'best girlfriends'--you know who you are! You have been with me through thick and thin! We have laughed and cried together (even all in one night). Plus, you can't beat sitting around chatting over a cup of coffee (or maybe one or two).
My sweet father and sister. Even though our family is small, its big in heart. I don't know what I'd do without either one of you. I love you dearly!
I looked at my list and I could not leave off my dear mother (God rest her soul). Even though she is not physically here, she is always with me in my heart. Sometimes when I feel down, I just think to myself--'Lily would not sit here and be like this--remember, you are your mother's daughter!!' If nothing else, my mom has ignited the 'fire' within me and it will not be put out! I love you mom!

My life has been blessed!

Fishy kisses

2007-08-06T19:33:00.001-07:00

The Stansell Family Out Fishing

Here's Layton helping daddy reel in a "big one". Don't look too close--Layton has a big "shiner" on his left eye. But that's a whole other story...Let's just say, Layton doesn't always look where he walks. My poor baby!

Here's Ashlyn playing with the "fishies".

In case you can't see what she's got in her hands, let me zoom in for you.

We just can't seem to get her out of the bait bucket!

No, your eyes are not deceiving you--she is making the 'fishies' kiss! That's a girl for you!

Do I know you from somewhere?

2007-08-06T14:06:00.001-07:00

Have you ever run into someone and had the feeling, "Have we met before?" Well, I had a incident like that this weekend. I was attending the birthday party for the daughter of one of my sweet friends from the library. In the process of meeting some of the other mothers there, I met a lady whose name, strangely, I already seemed to know. Weird, huh? Well, anyway, she didn't remember me at all and I still couldn't shake the feeling that somehow we had met before. Anyway, (to make a long story short) after meeting up in the bathroom to take our kids to the potty, she asked me, "Who's your OB/GYN?" Well, that sounded like a strange question to me, but I went ahead and answered , "Dr. Klein--why?" Well, she told me that she was a doctor in the same office. Come to figure out, I recognized her from the operating table. She assisted my OB, Dr. Klein, in performaing the C-section for my daughter, Ashlyn. She actually helped deliver one of my kids!! So of course, I'm speechless! All I could say was, "I'm forever grateful to you!" I'm sure she wanted to laugh at my comment! I guess it is strange to actually see your doctor in a normal, everyday kind of situation, and actually re-acquaint yourself with someone who was there at such an important event in your life. In the words of the (dog?) on 'Wow, Wow Wubzy', "Kooooky..."

Did I mention that I'm a runner?

2007-08-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

Somewhere in the midst of the hectic life I call 'motherhood', I became re-acquainted with an old love of mine--running! Now, let me expand on what I considered running pre-motherhood. Running to me was never about the distance of miles run, just about the time I spent out there exercising (you know, the old calories in vs. calories burned scenario). I ran solely for the purpose of trying to manage the constantly moving roller-coaster ride known as my 'weight'. But, I discovered that as I began running more I actually enjoyed it. Imagine that?! I 'm not exactly sure what it is that I like so much about running. Maybe it's the feeling or the "runner's high" that I get after a really good, physically exhausting run or maybe its the feeling that I am pounding all the day's stresses and frustrations into the pavement and leaving them in the dirt. Either way, I think I've become addicted to that "runner's high". Not to mention, a few of my friends are runners too. Well, due to my renewed interest in the sport and the fact that some friends of mine are big fans too, I have actually joined a running club and have (gasp!) registered for the Houston Marathon in 2008. Yes, it is a little hard to believe that I will actually be running 26.2 miles (even typing the mileage makes my heart beat a little faster), but what's a girl to do? I'm in it for the long-haul and I'm going to cross the finish line (walking or crawling if I must). Here goes nothing...Woo-hoo!

Makin' funny faces

2007-08-02T19:51:00.000-07:00

1000 Coffee Cups

2007-08-02T16:00:00.001-07:00

I know what you're thinking...she must drink a lot of coffee! I do like coffee, but not to that extent. But if any of you are wanting any cups (for the next 10 years) to put your coffee in, you've come to the right place.
Since I just recently started my blog, I couldn't resist sharing a little story about good intentions gone bad. My friend Heather and I were riding together to go to the church's monthly ladies night. I had basically hitched a ride with her, since I wasn't too sure about how to get to the location. Anyway, long story short, I felt bad about making Heather any later than she already was to help the hostess prepare and Heather was already having a bad day. So, since she was supposed to bring styrofoam coffee cups and I was feeling guilty about making her come pick me up, I had the bright idea of running into Sam's Club (of all places) to get those cups for her. Well, as you already may know, Sam's Club specializes in bulk items, so I ran in and got the coffee cups as I had promised (all 1000 of them). Needless to say, Heather was quite taken aback seeing me walk out with a box almost tall as myself. We had a good laugh over it, but I think Heather still has the box in her car (all 925 cups). Any takers?

Addicted to blogging...already?

2007-08-02T15:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, I feel like I've finally entered the 21st century and joined the "blogging revolution". What took me so long? I'm not sure. I think I just got a little nervous about adding one more thing to my already busy schedule. But now that I've seen just how easy blogging can be, I'm getting a lot more into it. I'm just excited that it has inspired me to start taking more pictures of my kids and really taking account of all the adorable (and not so adorable) things they say and do throughout the day. So welcome to my wonderful (hopefully, not boring) life...