Saturday, December 26, 2009

The Uncomfortable Stare...

This picture has nothing to do with staring, but she is actually smiling so I had to post it.

Addison has the uncomfortable stare down pat. You all probably know the one I am talking about. Like, when you are at a restaurant and a baby starts staring at you so you respond by waving, talking or smiling. Then you look down and go about your business only to feel eyes still bearing down on your back. You look up again and the baby is still just staring. You wave and smile again and try to look away but don't really know what to do. More than likely the baby staring at you is going to be Addison if you live anywhere close to us. However, it's not only uncomfortable for the person being stared at, but it also makes me uncomfortable because I'm not sure what proper protocol is in this situation. Do I try to make her quit staring or will that make the person she is staring at feel more awkward? Do I ignore it and act like I don't see it? I mean, after all she is being quiet and allowing me to eat. Do I apologize to the person being violated? I just never really know what to do. Usually I do nothing and hope it will go away. Tonight, she was staring extremely hard at the restaurant and the person (man) she was staring at was playing and talking back. Finally after I did try to distract her I apologized because he was very close to our table and ignoring him any longer was out of the question. He assured me he didn't mind, but I can just imagine that if he had a blog he would be writing about how he couldn't enjoy his pizza because he felt pressured to keep talking to a baby that wouldn't leave him alone. I'm sure he was very glad to see us go because towards the end of the meal staring had turned into the least of my problems. Trey was getting pretty rowdy and Addison was removing every article of clothing that she physically could. I was quickly reminded why we usually eat at home!

Christmas Part 2











We had Christmas at Nana's and Papas the other night and we had a great time. We always have to leave and go look at Christmas lights so Santa can come deliver all the presents. We crammed into the vehicle and went out searching for lights. However, this year no one had lights put up so we basically drove around aimlessly in the pouring rain trying not to wreck. When we got home the kids were so excited to see that Santa had made it in the rain.
As you can see, Trey got drums this year. Needless to say I am ecstatic about this. Santa must have known that's exactly what we needed. (Hopefully you can sense the sarcasm here.) Trey however truly does love them. He kept yelling all day yesterday, "Oh thank you, thank you, thank you Santa." Addison loves them too. She also got a big ball pit that she loves to close her eyes and dive out of. I really think Santa thought we lived in a mansion because everything he brought this year was huge. Either that or my mom has it out for me. I'm not sure which one. Right now I am so thankful that we turned our dining room into a playroom.
We continued Christmas yesterday at home and Grandmoms and they both racked up there too. I love Christmas but I'm also really glad it's time to get back to normal.




Wednesday, December 23, 2009


"If Hadley would just bring that doll a little closer I could get it."

Trey is surprisingly good at playing the trumpet!


"Yes mom, its a purse and it's cool. Now please get the camera out of my face."



Last night was Christmas at P.J.'s and Cece's house and we had such a good time. I am so blessed to get along so well with my in-laws and have a sister in law that's my age to hang out with (I have 2 my age, but Rachel is in Virginia and we miss her!) The girls are so much fun to watch and it's fun to see how different their personalities are. Hadley is smiling while she is crying and Addison has the pouty look down to perfection. Trey enjoys going behind them and taking everything from them because it makes him furious when they put "his" things in their mouth.
Janelle and I also learned how to make homemade cinnamon rolls last night. I have to say, I am just not a baker/cooker. I wanted to learn how just in case I surprised myself but it just really stressed me out. I didn't get any pictures of the final product but let's just say Janelles were much prettier than mine. I think everyone will be in major trouble when the holiday meals fall on me. Cece is a master baker also and she tried to save me by making my batch the example she would work on but it still didn't really help. At one point Trey came up and said, "WHAT are you guys doing??" and I TOTALLY understood how he felt. At that point I wasn't so sure myself. However, it was tons of fun and I laughed a lot so it made it worth it. Plus, Cecily didn't make us eat my batch so I still got to enjoy some she made herself. We are going to my moms tonight for more Christmas and I can't wait to watch Claudia, Ethan and Trey get excited all over again!





Saturday, December 19, 2009

Santa



I have been a bad parent this year. While most people take their kids to the mall or boutiques of some kind to see Santa I haven't taken mine anywhere this year. I haven't wanted to deal with the hassle and crowd and also the dirtiness that goes along with 10,000 kids wiping their hands and faces on Santas laps. So, I avoided it all together.
Well, this morning we were at Home Depot with Addison because Trey was with Cece and I spotted a Santa station. I thought I could at least redeem myself by having some proof that she saw Santa on her first Christmas but when I saw the pics I knew that there would be no fooling people that I didn't take her anywhere cool. Her outfit was not very Christmasy to say the least and after I looked at the picture I noticed Santa had put lipstick on his face for rosy cheeks. However, I guess you get what you pay for. I will just have to hide Treys pics on Santas lap from the last 2 years because if she sees those she will know for sure she wasn't at the mall. I don't think it's too cool to run around and show your pic from Home Depot. I'm just guessing.
I love the glare she is giving Santa. I don't think he knows who he is messing with.

Paparazzi.....











Trey had his Christmas play at school the other night and I was "that" mom for sure! When it came time for his class to sing I ran down to the front and sat in the aisle the whole time and took tons of pictures. I was really surprised at myself. I caught myself waving uncontrollably the entire time he sang but for some reason I just couldn't stop. It was almost like I saw myself waving and knew I should just stop but was physically unable. At least he's only 3 1/2 and still thinks that I'm cool. I have a feeling if I try to pull that when he is 16 he won't think its as cute.
However, he did do an awesome job. He had the hand motions down great and can sing a mean Away in a Manger. It was so fun to watch him with his classmates and get so excited to sing for everyone! This year has been my favorite year by far for Christmas because he is so excited about it. We have our countdown going and I can't wait for him to open his gifts that Santa is bringing him. However, the main thing he is asking for is a rock and roll chair and I haven't quite figured that one out yet!
Yes, Trey is covering his eyes in the first picture on purpose. He kept telling me we were going to be late (which we almost were) and that he didn't want anymore pictures. This is a product of me telling him to get over here and smile. I said it really sweetly of course.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Wal-Mart

It seems like I always have a lot to say about Wal-Mart! Maybe it's because most of my life is spent there. I would normally never go to Wal-Mart with both of them (for big shopping trips) but today I was desperate. I usually go on Wednesdays when I only have Addison or Saturdays when they are both at home with J. O. However, today I needed things that we couldn't go without so I loaded them both up and hoped for the best. They are usually very well behaved when we get out and shop but I knew today would be much harder since it would take awhile. Even I wasn't prepared though for the way both of them would act! It started in the parking lot when a 1980s van about rammed me so he could get a parking spot that was a milliliter (don't even know if that's a real measurement) closer to the door than another one. I never saw the person but I would guess this person doesn't do too much walking. Then when we got in the shopping cart I wouldn't let Addison have my keys so she started throwing her head around and banging it on the metal shopping cart. By this point people were obviously looking because it's not every day you see an infant banging their head on metal and acting unfazed. She was also letting out little screams/growls to show me how mad she was. I ignored that and pressed on. Then Trey kept "accidentally" throwing things out on the floor and telling me his friend "Edgar" was doing it so I couldn't get on to him.
After that I was letting Addison chew on an empty bottle of Tylenol because the rubber top feels good on her gums and a woman proceeded to stop me and ask me if I knew she was chewing on it. I almost said "Yes, I'm hoping she will drink enough and pass out in the cart so I can finish." But instead I just said, "Oh, thanks for letting me know." and waited until she was out of sight and gave it back.
We made it a little bit longer and then Trey (Edgar) kept mashing things up and Addison was pitching another fit because I wouldn't open ALL the food in the aisles and let her have some, so I picked up a few necessities and left immediately. Needless to say, it was a great time. Now I get to go back tonight and finish.

Monday, December 14, 2009

Parade



Well, yesterday was the Christmas parade in Cabot and we decided to go last minute. We knew Trey would enjoy it but we were not really wanting to get off the couch in the cold nasty weather. We decided to brave it and headed out in the cold. I have to say, I don't remember the ole' Lonoke parades lasting this long when I was growing up. It lasted a solid hour and apparently ANYONE can enter the parade as long as you have a truck (or Mustang) and 35 bucks. Seriously, at one point a truck was driving down the street playing rap music (Eminem) and there were guys skateboarding beside the truck. I think they had a tiny sign on the truck advertising something but you couldn't even read it. Someone else apparently rented a semi (I prefer to think they don't just own one for pleasure) and rigged it up with trees and lights. I thought parades used to be about cool floats and bands? I mean, I didn't expect Macys Parade or anything I was just a little surprised. Needless to say, Trey thought they were all cool and especially loved Santa waving at him. Addison enjoyed her Teddy Grahams to keep her still and playing in the back of the car.

Oh, just a cool fact about the minivan...and yes, I just used cool and van in the same sentence. The seats flip upside down and make seats that you can sit on in the back so while everyone else was sitting on tailgates or blankets we were sitting on the comfort of our heated vehicle. Take that SUV.

Also, yes Treys hat is an infant size but I thought his was in the car so I didn't have one for him. It only lasted on his head during this picture and then he yanked it off. Pics are from cell phone. Forgot the camera of course.

Thursday, December 10, 2009

The Curious Wal-Mart Shopper....


Dear Curious Wal*Mart Shoppers,
I realize Addison is very cute and you just want to squeeze her when you see her. I also realize that she is a little rolly and it makes you want to go out your way and maybe pat her little arms or legs. Trust me, I do this all day at home. However, since I am unsure of where your hands have been or if you are going to try to pick her up and run out of the store with her please refrain from touching her. I am all for a friendly voice or even a little baby talk done to her as long as it's from your basket. Also, please keep these to a short "hello" or "isn't she cute" because I do not have the luxury of coming to Wal-Mart and hanging out in the aisle for as long as you want to visit with my child. We are usually in and out quickly and we have a purpose. And the last thing, if she is wearing all pink, riding in a purple shopping cart cover, and sporting a bow she is most likely a girl.

P.S. Yes, people talk to Trey also but it is very rare that I shop with both of them. I usually go when he is at school.


On a different note, I became "that" parent last night. I threatened my child that if he didn't go to sleep the elf might not have a good report for Santa. I went against everything I stood for with that move. However, it worked like a charm so I have a feeling that elf may become my new best friend.

Monday, December 7, 2009

It seems like yesterday I kept getting tons of bad news from people. One of my good friends was dealing with her friend's newborn getting staph infection and being pretty sick, another friend was dealing with some pretty bad news about her soon to be father in law, and another family was having to make the choice of taking their 4 year old daughter off life support. I just got really down in the dumps thinking how I didn't understand why these things happen. Then I started thinking about how glad I am that I don't have to try to understand these things because I am not in charge. If I was, I can tell you things would be pretty messed up. I have really never been one of those moms to worry too much about SIDS, car wrecks, or other uncontrollable factors. I figure I just have to give my kids to God and pray they are safe. If it's up to me to keep them safe the rest of their life it won't happen. Obviously, I do my part along the way. I mean, I don't let Trey ride down the road unbuckled out of his seat with the door wide open and pray he won't fall out. That would just be dumb...

Right now I am just really thankful for my 2 healthy kids that we have been so blessed with. God has seen their future and knows what it will be and I just have to trust that He will help me along the way.

Few pics!



I posted a while back how difficult it was to get out of the house for church and Treys face in this says it all. He was griping because I was taking his picture but didn't have time to let him use the camera and take ours. Addison is wearing her classy new coat that I love. I wish they made one in my size because it feels so soft (maybe without the bunny ears)!




Friday, December 4, 2009

Computers...


Trey has always been very good with all things electronic. He has been playing a Nintendo DS with his cousins since he was about 2 and has had his own since about 2 1/2. When I got a new watch for my birthday this year I couldn't figure out how to program it or make it show the right time so I handed it to Trey. In about 5 seconds he had the right time displayed and now has somehow set the alarm to go off like crazy at 8pm every night and beep every hour. I have no clue how to turn that off. Well, recently he has decided that the baby computer isn't enough anymore. He begs to play on ours so this morning I pulled out the old laptop and let him play on it and Addison decided to try out Treys. I have to say Trey is pretty good at solitaire. His PJ has taught him pretty well.

I'm not too sure where this love of gadgets comes from because Im pretty sure J. O. and I still read a manuel inside and out when we are trying to program the remote control. Hopefully he will put this talent to good use one day and not just be a lifetime employee of Best Buy's Geek Squad (not that there is anything wrong with that).

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Christmas Time!




I love getting ready for Christmas and putting up decorations. I decorated way earlier than normal this year but it doesn't really feel like Christmas time until after Thanksgiving. Last night we busted out the matching pajamas (for the kids...not J. O. and I) and I tried very hard to get cute pics of the 2 of them. They both wouldn't sit still and then Bella kept trying to get in the picture too.
We started reading our Elf on the Shelf book last night and I have to tell you I think I'm the only person in the world who finds this book a little creepy. I mean, seriously how scary is it to tell our kids that each day a little man watches over you and at night flies away. Then he somehow breaks back into your house and hides somewhere new each day to make sure you are behaving. Call me crazy but I just find this a little disturbing. However, Trey got a big kick out of it and when he found him this morning lurking on his little tool box in his room he didn't seemed alarmed at all.

Thursday, November 26, 2009

New Moon...WOW


Yes, I will admit it...I am a huge dork and I love to read anything. However, I had a very hard time a few years ago being convinced to read books about vampires and werewolves. It just sounded dumb to me. One day though I was out of things to read and decided to pick it up and give it a try. I will forever be grateful that I did. Mostly because it caused me to go see New Moon and google over a 17 year old who ran around with his shirt off. I realize that may sound a little pedophilish but sorry. I have no doubt that anyone who has seen the movie will agree with me. This was definitely the greatest end to a great Thanksgiving Day!

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Guess who's back...

Okay, so I completely deleted the old blog but somehow I was able to keep the same address and everything. It will take me awhile to get this built up to the awesomeness the old blog was but I will try. I really can't believe tomorrow is already Thanksgiving. I really hope to try to be more thankful year around for the wonderful things I have been given. Even when it seems like things aren't going the way we want them to we still have so many things to be thankful for. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Obviously something has gone wrong....

Well, I knew eventually I would do something to mess this blog up. Somehow or someway I have gotten rid of everything on here and I have no clue how. Now, I know how my mom feels when she does something crazy with her phone and Trey has to show her how to fix it. Luckily I archived my blog recently and saved it to my computer so I still have the old posts and pictures. However, I couldn't tell you how to find the old blog to save my life. Blogspot will not win this battle though. I still have my Christmas background and I will prevail. It just may look ridiculous for a few days. I may have to change the name and delete this blog because I don't have any way to customize it like I did on the old one. What I really think happened is someone hacked into my account and cancelled it because my posts were so amazing they couldn't take it anymore. Oh well, I will post on facebook if I have to change my blog name. Happy Thanksgiving!

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Photo Shoot!



Today we had a photo shoot. Amanda joined us too and we had a great time catching up. I will tell you that the minivan was put to good use....4 kids, 3 adults. Although it was hectic at times we got some great shots. I can't show all of them but here are a few of my faves. However, we all agreed at the end that we would not want to trade places with the Duggars. At one point Lane was yelling, Trey was demanding apple juice, Addison was crying for french fries and Kelsey looked like she was very afraid of all these crazy kids. Oh well, great pics as a result.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Razorback Game


Okay, so I realize this in NOT a picture of J. O. and Trey at the Razorback game but this is one of the only pictures I have with proof that Addison really does smile. It was just too cute not to share. And every picture I do have of J. O. and Trey is not really post worthy. J. O. isn't looking (because what if something important happened and he missed it???) and Trey is all over the place.
We took Trey to the game Saturday and he had a great time. He kept asking questions about what was happening and was able to keep up with the game quite a bit. He even made it until the end of the 3rd quarter. Well, actually he made it until after half-time but J. O. wouldn't leave until the end of the 3rd quarter. The 3rd quarter actually consisted of Trey kicking the woman in front of us (who kept staring at us awkwardly anyway) and jumping up and down on the bench. He would also jump into me and I landed on the guy next to us more than once. Needless to say, no one asked why we were leaving when we got up to go.
I have a feeling that Trey is going to love football as much as J. O. Yesterday I asked him what he wanted to watch and he said football. He will stand in front of the TV and scream and yell during games (no idea where he got this behavior from) and get very upset if things don't go the way he thinks they should. It's pretty funny and makes J. O. extremely proud.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Well, you asked for them......







Here they are: Norman Ride 2009.
Sometimes I have to hold J. O. in from hanging out the window with pride. He always knew he would be (almost) 28 riding in a minivan. I just remember to tell him that yes, dreams do come true.

I tried to re-arrange the order but can't figure that out at all.

Life with 2 kids....


You know, I don't really feel like enough people prepare you for life with 2 kids. Sure it's great and I wouldn't change a thing, but wow. Here are just some simple things that are so much different when you add a second in the mix.

You don't think about having to stop at a gas station so your 3 year old can run to the bathroom and having to haul the baby in there too. Imagine how filthy gas stations are anyway and then you have to haul an infant carrier in there, somehow balance it on your leg so it doesn't rest in filth, unbutton Treys pants, button Treys pants and haul them both back to the car. And this is just on a short ride home from Searcy. You try convincing a 3 year old we are almost home and just hold it. You will have a mess to clean up for sure.

Getting out of the house for church. This is THE most challenging thing in the world. We have to be in our car by 8:45 and I swear this gets harder and harder every week. Addison is usually screaming because she's been up since 5:30 and needs a nap, Trey is usually refusing to get up to get dressed because he is watching T.V., and J. O. is usually reading the Sunday paper until 8:30 and he realizes he better jump in the shower. By the time we actually make it to church I usually throw them in their classrooms and tell the teachers good luck. More than once I have gotten them there and actually can't remember if either one has had breakfast. Why anyone with kids doesn't go to church is beyond me....you have wonderful people to watch/teach your children and you get some Jesus before you do it all over again.

Getting dinner made/kids bathed/put to bed. For some reason I never realized that everything you do at night would double. Why I didn't realize that?? I don't know. The simple act of bathing both of them and getting them to bed is one of the toughest things. Especially when we don't get home until 5:30 and we are late before we even start. That's where J. O. comes in handy...he handles Trey and I handle Addison. It works great.

2 kids are great. They play so well together and have so much fun. There is nothing in the world I would do different. However, I have so much respect for people with 3 or more!!

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Christmas Decorations




Well, decorating started early around our house! I put my tree up last weekend but just finished decorating everything this week. I have to admit I like putting it up this early. I am able to enjoy it longer and plus it just gets me in the spirit! This year I finally discovered the mesh wrap. I'm about 3 years behind the times on this one, but once I discovered it I simply can't quit! I put 2 rolls on my tree and then decided to use it on my mantle. It is so easy to use (obviously...if I can do it.) For my mantle I just wrapped it around a piece of garland, put a few things around it and called it done. I'm also considering making my wreath out of it. I can't be stopped. I'm so ready for Christmas to actually get here!

Being Content

This is another one of those random posts, but hey it's my blog. For some reason lately this has really been on my mind. I think it's because every year around the holidays everyone is talking about all they have to buy and get done and it just seems like we do more and more each year. When does it become too much? What is enough? Lately, I have been really bad to look around my house and think about what all I would buy if I had more money, etc...It seems like I continuously come up with a never ending list. Where does it stop? At what point do I sit back and say, "Wow, I have SO much stuff. Sure, some of it was the first piece of furniture ever invented, but it's mine and I have it." I get so caught up in wanting to have what everyone else has, or wanting to have new, cool things that I can't see past my own big head. Lately, I have just been feeling really guilty about this. If I gave away 1/3 of the money I blow on things I could probably do some actual good things.
One thing I worry about is my kids growing up and thinking they have to have everything because they see that in me. I want them to be content and happy and grateful for what they have instead of always looking to what other kids have. That's one of the reasons we only give them 3 Christmas gifts each. That probably sounds absurd to most, but think of how greedy most kids are and it starts at home. We also try to buy for a kid who doesn't have much and that's one way we are able to do that. Plus, we are blessed to buy what they need (and usually want) year around. Anyway, I told you this was random but sometimes it makes me feel better to get things off my chest. Does anyone else struggle with this or just me? I really hope to be better at this and appreciate the wonderful things God has blessed us with.

P.S. I won't feel guilty about the Minivan....my negotiating husband handled that one and made sure he was CONTENT with the price we paid!!

It Has Arrived....

Yes, the van is here. I will make no excuses, beg for friends, or try to justify it any longer. I haven't felt this happy since I gave birth to my children (and married JO!). It is single handedly the best thing I have ever ridden or driven. There is nothing like holding the keys up in the kitchen and automatically starting your car and letting it heat up in the cold mornings. Or, holding a baby in one hand and a toddler in the other and your doors automatically sliding open. Or, letting a toddler crawl in on his own because it's so low to the ground. Or, not having to worry about having new DVD's to change out because you can watch T.V. instead. Or, not having to pay as much for a Suburban as you would a house. The list could go on and on. I will forever be a minivan driver and I am a better person for it. You can all make fun of me and vow that you will never drive one, but I feel sorry for you all. Just allow yourself to give in for one test drive and you will be hooked. I will never be afraid to go on a road trip again.

P.S. I'm sure everyone wants pics but I actually haven't taken any good ones yet. It's a silver Chrysler Town and Country if you are curious.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

To dining room or not to dining room.....



That has been the question around our house for the past few weeks. Well, I say it like J. O. and I have been actively discussing it. When we were searching for our house we had a long list of requirements and wishes. At the top of our list was location and easy access to J.O.s work. We also had a few other things that were must haves and top priority. Something I would have loved would have been a 4th bedroom or great room. However, when we found this house it had everything we were looking for at this time except the extra room. We decided that we loved it anyway and didn't really mind the missing room.
Well, the other day when I was cleaning my dining room table and cabinet I realized I hadn't stepped foot in there since last week to clean my dining room table and cabinet. It kinda hit me that while I thought the room was very pretty it was completely useless at this time. As long as I have a mother and grandmother willing to cook for me, I generally don't volunteer to host dinners. Now, I realize we have friends over from time to time, but we have a table that seats 6 in the kitchen. I decided to move my precious furniture out of there and it actually looks better in other parts of the house. I laid down some ABC mats, replaced the chandelier with a ceiling fan and added fun curtains and called it done. Then I was able to move our toy "closet" to the toy room. The hardest part is getting Trey to realize this is where he needs to play....yesterday as he was moving all the toys out he told me he would rather play in the living room. Go figure.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Baby Items...

This may be the most random post I have ever posted by far, but I was doing laundry and saw my old bottle of Dreft sitting on the cabinet and started thinking. Do you ever wonder who the genius was that invented baby products? I imagine the meeting began a little like this:
"Okay, we need a new money making product. Who is the most paranoid group of people on the face of the earth? In unison a couple of people yelled out moms. Then the guy said, "How about we take normal detergent and leave out one ingredient, charge $10 more per bottle and tell people it's good for babies! People (moms) will think since it costs so much and comes in a cute bottle it has to be good. The dads will be too scared to tell them this is silly because they are too hormonal. Even moms who don't understand the purpose for it will use it because they will feel like a bad mom if they don't" Thus, Dreft was born. I imagine the same went for nursery water...(lets take regular water, change the name and bottle it. Moms will be convinced they are feeding their babies sewer water if they don't use it.) Diaper Genie...(lets convince moms that it's impossible to walk dirty diapers to the trash can. We will only put in a few bags per package so by the end of the week they are already out. Plus, we can keep coming out with newer models each year so people will update theirs) The list could go on and on. I mean, don't get me wrong I used my diaper genie just like the next, Trey didn't wear clothes that weren't washed in Dreft for a year, nursery water....well, I can't even act like I understand this one. Sometimes it just seems like it gets out of control! Oh well, someone made a ton of money off all of us moms!!

Sunday, November 1, 2009

HALLOWEEN!















Trey had so much fun on Halloween this year! He started practicing trick or treating the week of Halloween and could hardly wait for Saturday night. As some of you know I don't really get "into" Halloween and would never go out and spend a lot on a costume. However, when Trey was practicing around the house wearing his costume I was starting to get a little embarrassed. I had gone out and found an amazing deal ($4) on a scarecrow costume. My dear friend (you know who you are) assured me it was fine and so I bought it. Meanwhile her little boy was dressed absolutely precious in a dinosaur costume (I will admit she bought it for a couple of bucks too)....Anyway, after he was running around playing in it I realized it was slightly too small and looked like the person had sat down and sewed it while she was cooking dinner, changing a diaper and fixing her hair. It looked awful. Not too mention the hat was an old witches hat that had a few pieces of fabric sewn on for straw.
Well, enter Cece. She called on Friday and said the cleaners had a lot of leftover costumes that were donated and she could get him one if we needed it. I tried to act cool so I didn't bust myself out for being cheap, but deep inside I was screaming YES! So, as you can see he was a super cute cowboy riding a horse who wouldn't slow down for a second for a good picture. He played at our fall festival and then went trick or treating in the neighborhood. Addison enjoyed wearing her pumpkin shirt and attacking Treys candy when we weren't looking! Hope everyone had a great time!!





Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Parenting Skills.....

Lane at 9 months old!
Addison at 9 Months old!

I will be the first to admit I was a judger. Yes, I was one of those parents in Wal-Mart who silently stood to the side and wondered why you people couldn't control your kids. I mean, my amazing parenting skills were why Trey would behave so well in public and wouldn't get into things after I told him no. All you have to do is be consistent and discipline and your kids will listen and do whatever you say. Right??? My best friend has a little boy who we will call adventurous. She used to tell me she couldn't put him down to cook dinner, he would play in the toilet before she could stop him, and he would get into everything around the house. So, I preceded to tell her what any amazing good friend would....just put him down and tell him no. He will stop and listen to you. You just have to be consistent...BLAH BLAH BLAH.
Fast forward to January 29, 2009 and this little girl came out screaming and didn't stop for an hour. As soon as she could start rolling she would arch her back and throw herself sideways so I couldn't change her diaper. As soon as she could start crawling she headed straight for the dog food and fireplace. As soon as she started saying a few things she started throwing everything on the floor yelling uh-oh. Imagine my shock when just saying no didn't work. I was appalled the other day when I heard she played in the toilet. Not my little girl?? I started flashing back to all the wonderful unsolicited advice I used to give to Amy and just sighed. It looks like my amazing parenting skills had nothing to do with Trey being so laid back after all. However, Im not ready to admit yet that maybe Trey takes after J.O. because that would only leave one person Addison could take after. Oh well, life would be boring if Addison actually listened and decided not to eat out of the trash can right? The teenage years should be interesting....

Saturday, October 24, 2009

FLU!!


Well, our family has had our first experience with the swine flu! Trey woke up about 3:30 Tuesday morning getting sick to his stomach and complaining of a headache. He was burning up so I crawled in bed with him and prayed I wouldn't fall asleep! At this point I was thinking it was the stomach bug and could just imagine him leaning over and getting sick on both of us while I was snoozing. Yes, this was probably a selfish thought but it was 3:30 in the morning and I was still half asleep. The next morning he was still running high fever and saying his head hurt really bad. I figured it was more than the stomach bug so we headed to the doctor. I think the doctors office scared me more than anything! There were masks everywhere and sick kids running around crying. It was like a scene out of outbreak or something. (Ive never actually seen that movie, but I assume that's what it would be like) Anyway, the doc said based on his symptoms he definitely had H1N1. He was sooo sick Tuesday. He wouldn't walk and all he wanted me to do was stand and hold him or rock him in the chair. We are on day 5 of fever, but he is feeling a ton better. Now, I am just praying Addison or J.O. doesn't get this! Both of them are not the best patients! Addison on the other hand has an excuse....

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Another year down....











Today was my birthday and it was a great day! J. O. asked me if I was excited about my birthday and truthfully I kinda forgot on and off all day that it was actually my birthday. Not because it wasn't special or fun but just because it seems like every year you are just counting down to a bigger marker....I am now knocking on 30's door. Not that I mind. I actually could care less. I just wonder what changes when you hit 30?? According to one of J. O.s friends I already wear mom jeans. Do I have to start wearing sweater vests with little pendents on them? Do I have to retire my jeans that I have to lay on the bed to zip up? Am I required to only wear flats because they are better for my feet? (Don't let me lie to you, I do that most of the time anyway) Seriously, I am already in bed by 9:00 every night so that I have a little time to read before I doze off, I consider sleeping in when Addison makes it until 6am before waking up, and my dream car is a fully loaded minivan. Maybe I should just look forward to 30 because instead of being a really uncool 28 year old, I will actually be a really cool 30 year old...or at least just fit in! Anyway, Im thankful for another year with a wonderful family!!! Here is a pic of the cookies Trey and I made to celebrate and a couple of others just because!!