The Holley's est. 6.17.06

2011-12-01T14:16:00.000-06:00

What is it about " a family Christmas card" that makes children turn into monsters? We had a little photo shoot last month -which is a whole story in its own as to how I got it. (long story, silent auction, almost a mom on mom girl fight over the thing.) but.. i won!:) Anyway, AR cried throughout the whole shoot, and wouldn't wear her shoes. in downtown birmingham. in winter. miserable. But we managed to pick a couple, even though no children are smiling in the one I chose. Behind these few smiles, are people that wanted to bite other peoples heads off. No names.

Happy 4th B'day Cole!

2011-10-30T16:14:00.000-05:00

I'm only a few months late, but Cole turned 4! All I could get out of him for what he wanted for his party was "swords and a bouncy." So, a "royal knight" theme it was. I (copy) watercolored the invitation and printed them. A very cheap but cute alternative to having them made!

A neighbor of mine had thrown out some boxes, so I snagged them and painted them like a castle. (they were pretty cute until the monsoon hit.)

At at exactly 3:50, 10 minutes til party time, the rain poured down, and as people started arriving they had to come into my -not prepared for an indoors party- house. Thankfully, the rain didn't last long!

We had the bouncy and had wonderful friends show up! It was so much fun!

Cole got a big bike from G'daddy and LoLo! And of course AR couldn't be left out, so Aunt Anna brought her a little something...

It was a great birthday party. But beyond all that excitement and stress, no one could have prepared me for how much I love this little man. He has brought me so much joy and happiness! I'm so lucky I get to enjoy the rest of my life with him.

"the six of us"

2011-10-16T14:02:00.000-05:00

The six of us bff's have been getting pictures made like this since we were about 5. This picture was taken when Ashley got married this summer. It is so special that we STILL make it a priority to see each other! I love these girls!! There's nothing like old friends:)

War Eagle!!

2011-09-28T16:31:00.000-05:00

Well it's official that all of the Holley's are Auburn fans. Cole, the rebel, has said Roll Tide for the past year and he was dead serious. I tried everything to win him over from the "dark side" but it took going into Jordan Hare stadium, and seeing it for himself to convince him. Not only did it work, but now every where we go he wears his AU hat and tells everyone that he went there:) Anna Reed on the other hand sings every word to the battle cry at the first sound of a drum. Yea! Suprisingly, even with no naps, everyone managed to have the best time (a little apprehensive taking in 2 toddlers!!) I can't wait to go back and do it again! I caught a few pics of the adventure.

Our summer!

2011-08-15T13:42:00.005-05:00

We had a great time at the beach! Although for mommy it's more work than play, I enjoyed watching how much fun they had! Hopefully next year it won't take us 3 days to get enough courage to get in and swim in the ocean.

Somehow
after about 800 pictures, this is the ONLY one I have with both of them in it! crazy.

We also had a great time at the lake! The kids LOVE riding the boat and I can't keep them out of the water! Cole especially loves "driving" the boat. (Poor Jared.)

Going in with his pj's still on!

Loving his shark floatie

AR and AF

Dancin' with daddy

2011-07-13T14:02:00.000-05:00

OK, time flies when you're having fun... and raisin' kiddos. I can't believe it's been so long since I've posted. I'll blame it on working really hard when I have a few spare minutes on my other blog - http://www.homeandsoulredemption.blogspot.com/ .. ya know, the one that is probably a little more interesting. Anyway, we have had a good summer this far and am never staying still for long. We wear out McWane, the Zoo, the parks and the library! We also have started using the pool at the gym (why did I wait til now?) With my sister getting married and having a husband living with her now, and my parents having moved out of my childhood home, and are building another house, we haven't been to Gadsden as much.
Anna Reed is trying to copy her brothers every move, which Cole is trying to annoy the stew out of her. He loves to boss her around, but he really love her too. I love hearing them laugh together over eating eggos, and someone making a funny noise or something. Cole memorizes books and loves reading them to AR. She of course prefers an adult around to read to her, but he will do sometimes. (helps me!)
I am getting ready to plan Cole's 4 year old birthday party! I can't believe he is getting so big! AR is 19 months, and running around trying to keep up! Cole heads off to his first VBS next week, and I'm not sure who is more excited?! It will be nice to have some mother/daughter time, since pookie rarely gets that! Off to enjoy this rare moment of my house being quite, with children sleeping, and the rain pouring!!

I love my children...

2011-04-16T20:55:00.001-05:00

Of course, I love my children, isn't that my job? But lately, it's become so much more than that. I think for the first time, I am actually breathing them in. I'm taking the time to smell their hair and try to remember it, or looking at their feet so I won't think back and say I don't remember it ever being that small. Not trying to do or be the best at everything else in my life. I have accepted my situations and surroundings (and am very thankful) and just enjoy being home. I have to admit, staying home was/is hard for me. No, I've never wanted to "work" a day in my life, but I like to stay busy doing things outside the home. I find myself reading more to them, instead of sweeping one last time. It's always bothered me that laundry needed to be done and I've always struggled with trying to make myself realize which is more important. It's like a weight of rediculous expectations I've put on myself has realized it's place. It might sound confusing, but hey I know what I mean, and well, it's my blog. I want to dedicate more sincere blog entries about my family so I can really remember these precious moments. I've always thought of a blog as a way to talk about yourself, and tell all the interesting things you do, and less about documenting and having a virtual scrapbook.

So, I will start by what C and AR are up to these days. Well, Cole has a couple imaginary friends, Bog and Beeb. Yes, creative names and no clue where it came from. But he talks to them and tells them they are not obeying him all day long. Cole also got a trampoline, that he usually only gets on if PJ is watching, so I have threated to sell. (grandparents sigh in relief.) He only eats chicken and hot dogs and sour flinstone vitamins. He loves playing T-ball and I'm not kidding he is amazing at it. I know we will be living at the ballpark in a couple years. He is so smart. He can tell me what every number plus every number adds up to equal. He counts to 60. After 60, it turns into 60t-ball set, 61t-ball set, no clue where all that came from. And he is dead serious. He also loves to read, play train tracks, ride on his gator, puzzles, watch Olivia, be with anyone kin to him, or be Melissa. He also has developed a few freckles across his nose:)

Anna Reed on the other hand, is growing up so fast. She is still NOT walking alone, but will with a tad of guidance. She likes to push her grocery cart, and her favorite thing to do is read! She is obsessed. She also loves Mickey Mouse aka "mi me mos." She can say anything you ask her to, and tries as hard as she can to tell you things, but only me and PJ can understand most of what she says. She also loves fruit, which is a nice change for me since Cole would never touch it!

My sweet husband has been working about 70 hours a week. It's be really tough on everyone, especially him. I am so lucky to have such a great husband who works so hard for us and who brought me flowers yesterday, for no reason, may I add.

Edible Myarrangement

2011-04-13T15:51:00.002-05:00

A few weeks back I hosted a lingerie shower for my sister, Anna, who is getting married next month. I tried to plan for foods she really liked, which means her very favorite FRUIT! So, as I was cutting up all the fruit I thought I should have just got an edible arrangement and was curious to see how much they were. Redic! $100 for about the size I needed. Already being in Gadsden, I scowered around my parents house and decided to try it myself! I found a shoebox, which happened to be pink and purple, the colors of the shower. Then, I put styrofoam cut to size inside. Now I know it sounds crazy, but I happened to have a pink plastic tablecloth in the jungle known as my car. (I honestly can't rem. why it was in there, or how long it had been! And to argue my case, my back hatch is huge!) Anyway, I cut and covered the styrofoam with the pink cloth.

Then, I started putting the cut fruit and layered them on my long wooden skewers.

It took a little while, but I think she liked the finished product.

Now, not to toot my own horn... but toot toot.

2011-04-06T16:52:00.000-05:00

Cole told me "mom, it is 8, balls, zero, nine o'clock." I had to laugh, and take a pic to share.

2011-04-04T21:59:00.000-05:00

So, there are these sheets called "untuckables" that a local girl makes. The bottom is sewn together, so that when you make the bed, the top sheet can't become untucked. They are awesome! Even when you don't make the bed it stays nice and neat. I choose the ones with dinosaurs, and can you tell his delight?! (The matching dino pj's were not planned.)

busy kids...

2011-03-23T21:25:00.000-05:00

We have really enjoyed this awesome weather! I find myself running around the house in just a tshirt, because I am already so hot! What is going to happen when it rises above 80 degrees?! I don't know if it's just age, or chasing children, or a combo of both, but it's HOT. So, PJ has buzzed Cole's hair, he now looks 10.

Anna Reed tries her hardest to keep up with what Cole's doing, and loves getting down and dirty which gives me at least 2 heart attacks a day. Cole is even more "clean" than her. He hates his hands getting dirty, but not this sweet pea!

We have also got..... a trampoline! These little monkeys need a way to let some energy out! With basically no backyard, PJ has figured out a way to "install" it into the cliff, that is our backyard. So, it will be like a walk-on. I will let ya know how that turns out. Anyway, Yes, we have the safety net and all, but this was taken right when it was put together and he couldn't wait! If you have little ones please come join us anytime!

Spring pics

2011-03-23T20:48:00.001-05:00

We all got dressed to go out for lunch last Sat, and decided once we got in the car to make a stop by Bot Gardens and snap a few pics. Not exactly how we would have dressed, had we planned, but they were just fine. The flowers were beautiful, but the kids tummy's must have been yelling, bc they weren't in the best of moods. We still managed to snap a few cute ones. Oh, and there was a photog there waiting on a client, who had a live little bunny to use as a prop, I guess. Well, knowing good and well I had full intentions of somehow getting that bunny in my "it's almost Easter" pictures, I whisper in Cole's ear "Cole, let's go see that bunny!" Of course he is on board, and we walk over to it. I say "Don't worry, we are just looking, we won't touch!" The nice lady I'm sure knew what I wanted, and says, "here you can hold him!" I snapped away, and got a zillion of Cole holding him, but everytime AR would try the bunny would run away! It must have been bc she wanted to kiss him the whole time.

2011-03-21T15:51:00.001-05:00

We spent a beautiful Saturday afternoon at Botanical Gardens this weekend. After 369 pictures, literally, a kind lady asked if we wanted her to take a picture of all us. We obliged. Apparently, I was the only one still happy to there:)

leggo my eggo'

2011-03-21T15:06:00.000-05:00

The kids are now to the age where I can walk out of the room, and they can peacefully play together, without me fearing he will put stickers all over her hair, or force feed, and I mean FORCE, her to take the bottle. AR of course tries to do whatever Cole does, and Cole LOVES bossing her around. (I can hear myself in him:) I know I complain a lot about how tough having 2 toddlers is, but I truly love it, and go to bed wishing I had more time with them every night! This is them having breakfast together in the playroom.

what's new

2011-03-02T16:01:00.000-06:00

Check out my new blog http://www.homeandsoulredemption.blogspot.com/ which will explain where I've been and what I am up to!:)

Gettin' dirty

2011-03-02T15:59:00.000-06:00

Now that I am home more, and it's not freezing, we've been loving the outdoors. We recently went down to Eutaw Al, where PJ's hunting property is, and took the kids. I had never even been there and it's his home away from home 6 months of the year! We took the golf cart and the gator - the kids, and big kids, had a blast!

lovin' the mud - notice he has on 2 different boots.

I'm sure Cole will grow up on this land, what a memory!

2011-02-17T16:37:00.000-06:00

exciting info coming soon... sneak peak:)

2011-02-02T15:53:00.000-06:00

Today me and Melissa Wood took the girls to Soho Sweets. I picked up the kids some swirlpop suckers - had a blast cleaning that up too. I picked Cole up from school, and gave him his sucker. He took a lick, looked at me and said "mommy, am I a miracle?" My heart melted and I said of course, and took a picture to remember that innocent moment!!

2011-01-16T21:36:00.000-06:00

So, every one warns you when you have a boy, that it will be completely different than having girls. Well, I guess that is true, now having both and seeing the difference. When Cole was just 2 he was being put to sleep to have surgery on a hand that had been closed in a door. (One of the scaredest moments we've ever had with him!) He is still always getting hurt and just last week, was running through the kitchen while I was cooking supper, and ran into the side of the cabinet and basically knocked out a tooth. It stayed attached, just knocked backward. After panicking and calling every dentist I knew, PJ reset it back in place, then put him to bed and thankfully we awoke to it pretty firm in place. We had an appt. right away, and got it all under control. So, as he was playing in the tub tonight, I decided to snap a picture of his feet. Maybe this will capture just how rough my little boy is:) I'm sure there will be more trips to the Dr. for emergency accidents, but I pray it will never be anything more serious!

birthday girl

2011-01-16T21:28:00.000-06:00

My sweet girl turned 1, and since I'm back to blogging now, thought I would catch up with some birthday photos.

She loved the tickle monster book and hands that Aunt Melissa (Mo) gave her.

It's official - I'm a thrifter.

2011-01-12T21:37:00.000-06:00

As I am sitting in my den this am - alone, thanks to the children still sleeping- I realize something. Every. single. thing. from my den is from a thift store. Ok, maybe not a thrift store, but awfully close. Something I love so much, is stealing from people. I love to find something someone doesn't want and "fix it." So, I will spend pennies on something worth so much more. I absolutely love a good deal. Get this right.. not a sale.. a STEAL. It's like I almost want to look over my shoulder after the purchase and say "suckaaaa." Ok, kidding. But, I wanted to show you bloggers the deals I have found along the way, in the one year + I have lived in this house.

These chair are from Craigslist, I believe I paid $50/ea. for them. I planned to have them recovered, which I will eventually.

The ottoman, was $3 from a thift store. (Don't worry I steamed it well.)

The silk drapes are from At Home, which I bought from a friend that was moving. They sell for $380/pr but I paid $50/pr.

The buffet style table was $35, yardsale.

If only I could find a replacement window system...

This was someone's fireplace screen they had bought from At Home, that broke, so I took home and broke apart, and made 3 handy "memo/card" holders.

This lamp cost $2, thrift. I painted it and added a shade.

These are 5 silk panels that I actually got from a friend, which she bought at a yardsale or something, but couldn't use them. They were took cheap to not buy!

I have a large area between my couch and chair, so this large table works great here. I paid $50, I think it goes for $500 from Ballard Designs.

My favorite deal of all time, is my coffee table. I paid $40 from a thrift store. It opens up for storage and is awesome. The cream/iron bowl on top from an estate sale somewhere. The child was free. Well, kind of.

This light hangs over my breakfast table. When we moved here there was an 1880 pendant. I removed the previous shade/plastic thing, spray painted the chain from bronze to brown, and replaced the shade from 3 Sheets. $25 total project. They sell these exact ones there for around $300.

Isn't it fun... practice with me... "SUCKKKAAAA!!"

2011-01-12T21:16:00.002-06:00

Yes, I have an adorable child. Yes, she is the happiest child in the world. But don't you dare put her down, or stick her in something that should aid her in being alone. Don't. You. Dare.

A New Year...

2011-01-12T20:39:00.001-06:00

It's a new year, and I have made lots of "new year plans." I don't like using "resolutions" because it just sounds like like it's a lie. So... here is my list.

1. I will be organized this year, if it kills me. I have actually held this up so far, and it's possible the people at Bed Bath and Beyond know me by name. Totes are your friend.

2. I will work smarter, not harder. - Be better at balancing work and family

4. I will blog, update things more, and be socially more acceptable.:)

5. I will finish projects, before starting a new one. My MAIN problem, in most areas of my life.

5. Most inportantly, I will spend time with God each day, but that should be a given.

SO.. in saying this, I am proud to announce I have redone/organized my playroom, laundry room, linen closet, all closets, master bedroom, kids rooms, I've got rid of most unused toys from the basement, and WORKING on my dining room. I use my dining room now as my, "crap, I'm not done with this project yet, and a kid has just pooped, and PJ is walking in the door asking what's for dinner, so I will just put it in here until I finish, room." I can't even say how much better I feel. I literally threw out everything I don't use on a normal basis (3 drawers for just camisoles is rediclous, when I prob wear 3) and had Hannah Home come get it! Whenever my heart strings tugged and reminded me I wore that cami one time at Auburn and I hate to part with it, I reminded myself, someone that needs it will get it, so just breath. AND after all the work, it's easy to keep it up!

I can't wait to post before/after pics!! (but I haven't loaded them.. one thing at a time people, i'm just happy I've posted!!)

Happy birthday pookie!

2010-12-05T09:02:00.001-06:00

I can't believe a year ago today, I had my sweet baby girl. She has made me such a proud momma, and she has blessed our family so much. I love you sweet girl!!

SALE

2010-11-18T07:22:00.000-06:00

Urban Green has all clothing 40% off today!! That means smocked clothing for $10!!

2010-11-17T20:45:00.000-06:00

Such a cheeseball. If I get my camera out, I can expect this face. every. single. time.

2010-10-26T20:53:00.000-05:00

I remember a time of tailgating when no children were involved. Although it was much wilder, and EASIER I can't imagine games without pump breaks, tantrums or nausea. We've went from 3 friends, to all having children... YEA! I can't wait to see just how big our group gets! (Although it's growing at a rapid pace, I must say..)

2010-10-26T20:46:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful game day weekend!! We scored tickets in Coach Chizik's box, which were amazing! War Eagle!! Thanks to our awesome friends, Mo and Jared, who always share their lake house with us and make the game day weekends that much better!

recently..

2010-09-28T10:48:00.001-05:00

Around here has been pretty crazy lately. I haven't had much of a life, other than trying to open a new store. It has been so exhausting and amazing. I love it! I've never worked so hard, and def. never had this much passion about anything - work related.
Anna Reed has been affected - so we think- with the similac beetle junk! She has been so pityful. I took this pic yesterday.

Cole on the other hand is growing up before my eyes. It is so sad/great to see how much he knows. He is all about playing outside(always has been) and his new love, watching his dad shoot his bow off out back deck. He is always wanting to go "smoke the targets." Yes, my baby is becoming a little man, country man that is. He is also obsessed with his bike. He's had it forever, but just really discovered it.

They have both adjusted well to their new schools, although I am still trying to figure out how to make 2 schools, that have different times and days work. I've figured out.. it's impossible. Crossing our fingers for an opening so they can be together! PS. i am so jealous of the bloggers who are always on top of it. How do you do it?!

2010-09-21T10:09:00.001-05:00

be sure to visit www.urbangreenboutique.blogspot.com

we. are. open. (well kind of.)

2010-09-20T21:36:00.004-05:00

We are up and running at Urban Green (softly), and I will put more info about what all is going on in the store another time, but I wanted to share a piece of "artwork" we are doing that is AMAZING! I am so excited about it! Ive never seen anything like it anywhere and we are doing it!! All you do is give us a photo (close up is best) and this is the outcome. (this one is set on a 16x16 platform, but you can get all sizes!! It was hard to get a good picture that would do it justice in my house, so come in to see it!

Coming soon... again

2010-09-09T14:36:00.003-05:00

Yes, I am crazy and have changed lots about the new store, so here are the new details!! I can't wait for the doors to open!!

2010-08-18T15:04:00.005-05:00

Happy 3rd Birthday to my sweet boy Cole! I am so proud to be your mommy!

Opening soon...

2010-08-11T09:54:00.005-05:00

My life is never boring, that is for sure. So, the next chapter in my life(because I simply don't have enough going on) is.... drummrolllll

I'm opening a children's store!

Now taking fall consignment, call me!

2010-07-14T15:51:00.002-05:00

I am a bad mom... at least that's now what my neighbor thinks. Let me paint the picture. Anna Reed was napping, and Cole and I were outside. I put him in the swing in the front yard and turned on the sprinkler to water my dying flowers. I am pushing Cole in this huge swing, that after a few good pushes, gets going pretty good on its on. So, I ran inside real quick to vacuum the den rug. What, I'm multitasking? So, as I'm hurrying knowing that Cole is perfectly safe, someone knocks on my door -I go and it's a man that lives across the street-"Yes?" "umm... your child is sitting in the swing screaming and the sprinkler is stuck squirting him in the face." I had no words, I just ran out there begging him to believe that "I really was a good parent."

2010-07-14T15:39:00.001-05:00

Sometimes I am a careless driver, which is terrible with such precious cargo. If this won't slow you down, nothing will. (You may have to copy and paste to your web browser.)
www.metacafe.com/watch/yt-az1smQMWHYk/drive_safely

2010-07-12T16:38:00.004-05:00

Dumpster Diver... that's my new name. We went for our walk this morning and stumbled upon this in someones trash pile!!! Guess who is one happy little boy...

2010-07-12T16:23:00.004-05:00

I'm all about bargains right now... who isn't though, right? Well, guess how much I paid for these ADORABLE bathing suits for AR?

$1!! you got that right, one buck. I got the suits at Dollar tree (which I've just discovered for some reason, and it's awesome...) and already had the "A" iron ons. I am very proud!

YUM.

2010-07-12T16:04:00.006-05:00

This is THE BEST, EASIEST, dip in the world. I just combined my favorite things!
2 avacado, diced
feta
can of tomatoes, diced, drained
lemon juice
salt
garlic, minced
and about 2T of olive oil

mix them all together and viola! YUM.

I have a serious addiction to feta, in case you can't tell by the economy sized tub.

catch up time

2010-07-07T15:46:00.006-05:00

This might be a long post, don't say I didn't warn you. We have had a busy summer this far. I am staying home with the kids, and we are always up to something, even if it's all laying in my bed watching Calliou. (Cole's fav) Anna Reed is getting so big, she is 7 months and worships her big brother. She is obsessed with Sophie the giraffe and still hair fabulous.

Cole is almost 3, and completely potty trained! We didn't have to work at that AT ALL, thank goodness, he just got up and decided one day he was ready. No going back!! I bet I've already saved a ton in diapers! Anna Reed still doesn't sleep that well, she is an early riser!! (actually anything before 9 is too early, but I've learned to be thankful for even 6am) We have spent lots of weekends with the grandparents, been to the lake a few times, and heading to the beach in a couple weeks..praying for no oil! Cole LOVES to swim! Which is great, considering we started off the summer in lessons that I had to cancel because it was so pointless due to the screaming.

Cole amazes me every day with the things he says. It's like he woke up a little boy, no longer a baby. We went to the zoo last week, and as we were leaving he said "thank you mommy, for taking me to the zoo. I love you so much." After I passed out, I wanted to just cry because I realize he is no longer a baby. He also at times has a much sharper tongue. His latest comments are "don't tell me what to do" and "mommy, I don't have to obey anymore!" But he equally loves his sister as much as she loves him. He tells her "good morning sweet girl", at all hours of the day.
Life is finally getting a little easier, with the kids getting a little older. Cole can do so much by himself now, and I am less tired bc Anna Reed is sleeping...some. I can't even IMAGINE throwing another child in the mix right now! (and don't worry, I'm not!)
We are still crossing things off our house to do list slowly but surely. We've done a ton in the past 9 months we've lived here, and have so much more to do! But we do have a backyard now!
On a sadder note, our beloved dog of 15 years, died while we were at my parents for the 4th of july. This picture was taken hours before he got sick and passed. (He was old, and had a troubled heart.)
RIP Chip Dobson

2010-07-07T12:20:00.000-05:00

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

2010-05-28T11:50:00.002-05:00

I've definetly slacked on the blog lately, so I'm going to add some slideshow videos... one down.. (they won't let me do them longer than 30 seconds so I will add a few)- at least that's my plan!

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

It's almost Easter...

2010-03-23T16:53:00.000-05:00

and that means... cute Easter baskets! I just ordered these and got them SO QUICK from www.peapiebaskets.blogspot.com

The day I almost lived in the basement.

2010-03-16T14:09:00.002-05:00

Let me start the story by saying I am incredible claustrophobic. I hold my breath when I ride the elevator. I can't breathe when I have a ring on that's too tight, and heaven forbid someone put a cover over my head and try to tickle me (thanks, dad.) So, it's a typical Tuesday. The kids are home bc of spring break, and we're all playing in the house. I decide it's been long enough - I'm going downstairs to clean out the rest of the boxes (yes, that we still haven't unpacked, and have lived here 5 months) and sweep and mop. I load up the kids, put Cole in front of the downstairs tv, feed Anna Reed and buckle her to her seat. and get to working away. I'm now in my own world and while taking something to the guest bedroom Cole comes in behind me. Let me first paint the picture for those who haven't been to my house. Downstairs has a big den area, bathroom and a guest room. It's partially underground, so the windows that are there, have those black iron bars on them. So, as I am in the guest room putting up some things Cole comes in and slams the door. (yes, you'd think he would be terrified of doing that since he has one arm in a cast from doing that, but no, it's fasinating to him.) I turn around and look at me and Cole sitting in the guest room and think to myself... "I've never spend more than 2 minutes in this room, wouldn't it be awful it that door was locked?!" Sure enough, as I walk to it and turn the knob, reality set in. I PANIC. AND THAT IS AN UNDERSTATEMENT. Anna Reed is in the other room, and the only window has bars on it! I'm stuck. forever in this room. with. no. phone. Seriously, my mouth started watering and I felt my lungs cave in, I couldn't breathe! As I'm frantically running around in circles I realize, there is absolutely no way out. Cole is freaking out, because I am freaking out. He tried to hide under the bed. Knowing that the worst case senerio was us being stuck for 6 hours, until PJ got home at 5:30 and found us. I knew AR was at least safe (and just fed) and tried to keep telling myself that. I start to think there is no way the windows are going to open (you know how old windows are) and I knew I couldn't get out.. but I could yell. As I look out the window I then see all those trees. Ok, also let me remind you we have 26 acres behind us, and realize my only hope for someone to hear me is if the old lady next door is home. (the one that tried to call me in for animal cruelty, but that's a whole OTHER story.) I start yelling "HELP" to the top of my lungs out the window. After a little while, I hear her saying "where are you, jamie?" THANK THE LORD...I'm going to be saved!! She comes and can't get me out, since the doors are locked, but can at least call PJ to come home, and let me in. So, he comes home, then comes around outside to talk to me through the window. I'm like "what are you doing, go inside and let us out!" He tells me he can't get in because I deadbolted everything from the inside, because Cole keeps trying to escape! OH NO. So, he beats down the front door. Seriously, I don't know how he did it, but he did. On the first try, which is kinda scary, but anyway. He comes downstairs lets us out. I'M FREE!!! He's looking at the door, only to show me if I jiggle it a certain way, I could have gotten out. Ok, I swear I did that. Anyway, I'm forever terrified of being stuck places, and will NEVER take my cell phone out of my hand, and have emergency exits, everywhere.

The Club

2010-03-15T16:03:00.003-05:00

Wow, what a week this has been. It started last Friday when my sweet Cole, got his fingers smashed in a big wooden door at school. It was AWFUL! I put a bandade on it (later, HUGE mistake) and called PJ and said meet me at his pediatrician, thinking they would take a look at it and tell me he probably needed a stitch or two. Once we got there and waited AN HOUR to see the Dr, all to have him have to pull off the sticky bandade off of a broken finger, imagine the pain. Once he saw it, and we did too, we all almost fainted. His nailbed and basically the top half of his finger was hanging by a thread. It was broken, and smashed, and it was undescribable. So, the Dr told us to get to the Emergency room at Childrens Hospital. Once we got there, we went straight back to a (nice) room, and immediately saw the Dr. He came in, and told us it was pretty bad, so he wanted to send in the hand specialist. They decided he needed to be put under and have a little reconstructive surgery and a few days later, would need a cast. After painful hours watching our sad, yet still wild little boy, who wasn't the least bit slowed by the event, have to go through this. It was harder on us, than him. We stayed in the room with him and watched the whole thing. (well, from a couch that we werent allowed to get up from, from fear we might pass out.) Cole did great. The next day, we went back for his cast. We waited 4 HOURS before seeing the Dr. They put a cast on, we got home... and 2 hours later, the cast was in the floor of his playroom. The next day, BACK to the hospital. (We called, they told us it might be a good idea to come on up that night to the ER and I said, over my dead body, we'll put him to bed, then come in the morning. After hours and hours and 5 Dr's visits later, this is how he looks now a days.

2010-03-01T15:25:00.003-06:00

Our idea of a perfect stay in date night.

lovin' on baby sis

2010-01-04T12:22:00.004-06:00

Cole loves his "baby sis." But he has to be constantly reminded he can't treat her like he does us. If I leave the room for a minute I am sure to find some trace of something he has tried to do to her. For example...

putting stickers in her hair...

trying to feed her his snack of crackers (running away but doesn't hide the evidence)

climbing in her boppy mobile thing while sliding her over when she can't even hold up her head.

And she better not even think about trying to take a nap. If I can't find him, this is where he is sure to be found.

Christmas pics

2009-12-30T16:10:00.004-06:00

The story of Anna Reed.

2009-12-30T15:40:00.002-06:00

First off, I will say she is named after my sister "Anna" and my Great Grandmother "Reed." After the post complaining about how she hadn't came yet, we were getting ready to watch the SEC Championship game. We had a good morning, all of us here, just relaxing and went to Milo's for lunch. I knew it was going to happen that day... details not necessary.. I just KNEW. So I told PJ we can just take it easy all day, bc we will be at the hospital by the time the game is over. Sure enough, by the time the game started I was having contractions. It is the weirdest thing, it's like I really can't ever tell when I'm in labor. It doesn't hurt, or really even "contract" that hard, it's almost like an unsettled stomach ache, that starts consistently. So, PJ packs his bag, and we decided to wait as long as possible before heading to the hospital. Well, the DR told me to wait a few hours, and I certainly wanted to wait as long as I could but, given my last birth record, I knew no time should be spared. I didn't listen to him, and went on to the hospital. We got in our room, and I was READY. I dialated super fast, and we waited around (all while cheering on Florida.) By the 4th quarter I was fully dialated and ready to go. The nurse said I'll go get the Dr, and I said "but, don't we have to push for a while first!?" She said "no, she is ready now!" So, I pushed twice, and there she was! We were all shocked at how much hair she had. (unlike anyone in from our families!) I was now a mother of 2, and we were a family of 4.

Welcome to the world AR!

2009-12-30T15:16:00.004-06:00

THE FOUR OF US!

COLE MEETING ANNA REED FOR THE FIRST TIME.

CAN YOU BELIEVE ALL THAT HAIR?

2009-12-28T13:47:00.002-06:00

Ok, so it's been a while... again. A couple hours after the last post, I went into labor and sweet Anna Reed is here!! It's so nice to have a girl I can be "girly" with. She has had an upset stomach most of her existance so that is sad, but hopefully it will get better soon. Cole loves AR, and is obsessed with all her hair. He wants to kiss it and rub it all the time. Which is fine, except there are always crumbs and stickyness in her hair. I feel like I'm starting over being a mom, I've forgotten the simple things!! When to burp...etc. I'm reading "Babywise" all over again. We had a great Christmas!! Cole loves Santa Clause and all he asked for were legos and an aubie toy. First of all, you wouldn't believe how IMPOSSIBLE it is to find an aubie stuffed animal. But, we managed and the kids now have more toys in the playroom than floor to walk on, but that's another story. (I need a playroom makeover, any storage ideas?!) We've been with family for the past week, and I sure love all the helping hands!! I've even slept a few consecutive hours, I'm spoiled now. I hope all 3 of my blog followers are happy that I have now updated. Pics to come soon!

What we've been up to.

2009-12-05T10:05:00.005-06:00

Here I am.... still waiting on baby to get here. I keep having signs that she is getting close, then I wake up the next morning, still pregnant. I feel like it's been forever since I've blogged about anything, much less even read other people's blogs. I can't seem to get everything together enough to where I have time to blog like I used to. Since we've moved I've felt very unoraganized and without a constant routine, which I desperately need!! When I finally do get it together -maybe in the weeks after Anna Reed is born- I will come back with avengence. I do have lots going on and fun things I've been up to that I need to share. One for example is SEWING. I have no time for this, however, I sneak in 10 minutes here and there when I can. It started when I was couldn't find curtains for the kids room (that sounds weird to say) so I thought how hard could they be to make? So I headed to Joann's fabric (my now fav. place!) and bought what I needed and here is how it turned out.

I'm pretty proud of them, being the ammature sewer that I am. I also made one of those nursing wraps, very easy! Next, those cute little girls pants with the ruffled bottoms!
And here is a pic of AR's room.

And here is a picture of the matching Christmas outfits I plan to put the kids in as soon as she gets here!

2009-11-09T14:16:00.002-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PJ!!
to the best daddy and husband EVER!!
We love you!!
Jamie, Cole and Anna Reed

2009-11-03T08:07:00.000-06:00

baby girl finally has a name..... ANNA REED will be here soon!

update.

2009-10-23T22:06:00.003-05:00

We are FINALLY pretty settled in the new house. This has been one of the hardest adjustment periods of my life. I guess it's the combo of being THIS pregnant (nesting), having a toddler that's into everything, and trying to get/stay organized, and well.. it's football season! Coles teachers have told me their concern for his recent "behavior" and blames it on the move. I just think... no, that's Cole. He is just WILD. Anyway, we have most of our belongings in the appropriate rooms(I won't say spots) and as of a few hours ago, we have the internet. We have workers here all day everyday, and it's pretty chaotic. Beyond all the complaining... we absolutely LOVE our new house. We are so thankful we've been blessed with it and are so excited our kids will get to grow up here. (I'm never moving again.) We still haven't came up with a name for this baby girl that should arrive in about 6 weeks or so. I'm getting stressed, but it will come. Right?

soothie not so smoothie

2009-10-15T07:17:00.001-05:00

update: ok, we are back on the paci, but ONLY at bedtime. He's adjusting to the new house, but really wanted it to sleep. I'll blog more about the new house later.

2009-10-06T15:30:00.005-05:00

Here we are the week before we are moving, and Cole flushes his "blue choo-choo train" down the toilet. We didn't see this happen, he just told us, and know he wasn't kidding when it wouldn't flush again. We hope it will pass, however it doesn't and are not allowed to use it (terrible considering it was in the master, and I'm preggo and getting up every hour!) After many attempts to get it out, PJ decides to take the toilet off and try to put this "snake" (which is a long cord thing that gets stuff out)in it. Well the snake gets stuck and now the toilet is sitting on our back deck with both the train and snake stuck in it. We don't know at this point if the train is stuck in the pipe of the toilet, or in the actual pipe down to the sewer. So, our attempt to "yank" the cord out, hopefully grabbing the train, is to tie it to the golf cart, slam on the gas and hope it works. I think you know where this is going (no, I'm not sending it in to "you might be a redneck" bc I'm sure it would win, and that's just bad. ) PJ attaches the cart to the cord, which is attached to the toilet... and there ya go. Instead of "yanking" it out, the toilet flies across the yard, into rocks and busts into a million peices. We've never laughed so hard. Guess what.. we found the choo choo!

soothie smoothie.

2009-10-06T15:25:00.003-05:00

We're officially off the paci aka "uh-oh." I would have never chosen to do it the week we are moving, and rock his world completely... but it just happened. He spent this past weekend at my parents so we could pack. My mom called and said he threw his paci in the pool and before I could get it it went in the skimmer, and I don't have another one. She said he napped fine without it.. that's all I needed to hear! I said DON'T go buy another one, we'll just try this out. (Ok, I have to admit, I was glad he would be away for the trial period.) Anyway, he did great! He still asks for it, but we say "the pool ate it" and he goes about his business. Perfect timing for baby sis to get here and then have another one obsessed with the paci. Bye bye "uh-oh."

2009-09-24T08:10:00.002-05:00

The cutest two men in my life. I am so thankful for them!!

The best four letter word.

2009-09-23T14:54:00.002-05:00

We're moving!!

2009-09-16T14:55:00.002-05:00

We've finally SOLD our house. It only took 7.5 months, that were the longest ones of our lives. We had just decided and really belived that maybe this was God's answer- NOT NOW- and we would take it off the market in about a month. Enough time for me to have this baby, and enjoy the holidays. Wouldn't you know, as soon as we came to that understanding and REALLY felt Gods will was/would be done, we got 2 offers!! As of right now, we have 14 day to be out and find another house. We think we've found one.. but will keep ya updated!!

2009-09-08T16:17:00.004-05:00

Cole's 2nd birthday party was perfect. At the park, no cleaning, and very laid back. He had a great time!

Happy B'day Cole!

2009-08-18T13:57:00.001-05:00

I can't believe this was two years ago today. I had no idea how much this little fella was going to change my life.

Beach trip

2009-08-17T21:10:00.008-05:00

We are back from a week at the beach and Cole LOVED the ocean. Of course he hated it at first, but a couple days into it, we couldn't keep him out! It was so fun getting to play with him. He called it the "pool"- to him any body of water is a pool. I've never had better weather, better (small) waves, and it was so shallow so far out- great for playing! Here are a couple pics from the trip. I only took 497, so it was hard to pick a few.

whoa!

2009-08-06T10:24:00.003-05:00

We went to the Homewood park bright and early this morning and I decided to take my camera. We were actually the only ones there. Cole has gotten pretty brave lately, and before I could even get my camera around my neck he had made it to the top of the really big slide - the one that's curly, and from all the dew, WET! I managed to snap this mid-slide... the outcome was not good. He never went down the slide again.

2009-07-27T16:41:00.003-05:00

Summer playdates are the best. (It's especially great when it's not at your own house!)You get out of the house and let the kiddos go wild.

Here a cute pic of Cole and Sawyer.

Fam Day

2009-07-27T16:26:00.003-05:00

Saturday was an amazing day! We spent the whole day as a family and actually stayed in town. I think we counted we had been out of town the past 9 weekends, that's redic! We woke up around 7:30, went to Tracy's in crestline for breakfast, then went to the zoo! I think PJ enjoyed it more than Cole:) That was his first trip to go with us. Then we came home and napped. We later met up with some friends for a pool side shrimp boil. Cole hung in there till 10:30! Cole is getting really attached to PJ. He's always been a momma's boy, but I can tell things are starting to change. I guess that's a good thing since we'll be having another one soon!

2009-07-27T08:46:00.002-05:00

Cole loves to be naked. He has figured out how to unbutton the snaps on the bottom of his outfits, and rip off his diaper. I constantly find him naked and near a big pee spot.

2009-07-27T08:32:00.002-05:00

If there is one thing my husband is good at, it's bringing me flowers- randomly! I don't get them for occassions, but for no reason. I love this about him! Here is a picture of the most beautiful long stem callilillies he brought home last week. I didn't have an appropriate vase, so I had to cut over a foot off the stem! They were SO long.

rambling...

2009-07-23T08:12:00.003-05:00

Today is the first day you can really tell I'm pregnant. I've been able to tell for months, but to an outsider I think now is about the time they can see that. I am a couple days shy of 20 weeks - HALF WAY!! This one is flying by. I went out and bought 10 dresses over the weekend, 4 of which were miniature polo dresses (cutest things I've ever seen.)

Cole on the other hand is border line bulemic. He thinks it's hilarious to stick his fingers down his throat till he vomits. Seriously, this is a problem. He doesn't eat, and thinks it's fun to throw up? While writing this post, I can hear him in the other room doing it. I called his Dr. yesterday and he wants to see him to make sure he hasn't lost weight. (He also struggles with never eating.)

Raising kids is such an adventure. One minute I want to hide in my room with the door locked, and one minute I'm crying because he's learned something new, and I realize we can never go back to before that moment he knew that.

2009-07-13T13:39:00.002-05:00

We will welcome our BABY GIRL in early December! I am dreaming of ribbons and bows...

4th of July

2009-07-12T20:52:00.005-05:00

We had a great fourth at the lake with our great friends. Cole especially loved riding on the boat, which lasted 1 minute until it put him out like a light. Here are a couple pics from the weekend.

Say Cheese!

2009-06-29T09:20:00.002-05:00

I have made the big purchase. I finally have an awesome camera. I even bought an extra lens that I guess I could use if I decide to become a private investigator. Now, to learn to use the darn thing.

2009-06-23T17:09:00.002-05:00

Does anyone know of a good/inexpensive upholstery place?

2009-06-12T15:18:00.002-05:00

Hi All! I feel like it's been forever since I've posted... or even got on here! I have no clue what's going on in everyone's lives. We are so busy, selling this house (STILL), being preggo, and last but not least I finally started my new job! I got hired in Feb. so it seems this has been a long process. I now teach 3yr olds at St. Lukes Day School. I love it! It was really made for me. This is what I love to do. Children, but they can pretty much fend for themselves. I teach 10-2 4 days a week, so it's part-time, and fabulous. Keep you posted on that.
Cole is getting so big. He knows how to count and all of his colors. We can't see anything without him yelling out the color! Granted, you can only understand half of them, but being his mom, I know what he is saying. He has his own little language few can understand - as does every kid. He is still obsessed with balls and animals. His favorite animal is a lion, and loves to "roar". I am finally not sick anymore. After these past weeks, this better be a girl. If I'm going to be sick, at least let the premonitions be right. Plus, I'm really looking forward to ribbons and bows. Who knows if I'll ever that, but it sounds nice. Now, that's my post. I'm off to catch up on Real Housewives. (it's tough having a job.)

FOR SALE!

2009-06-02T16:32:00.005-05:00

I am trying to sell the following... price is negotiable. Let me know if interested!

Chocolate leather chair and ottoman. Basically never been sat in.

Huge, gigantic JVC TV. It's 60" and wa-hay too big for this tiny house.

Mamma Mia.. here I go again

2009-05-29T07:40:00.003-05:00

Best broadway show I've seen. Ending of Mamma Mia, and pretty sure it's illegal I have this.

2009-05-29T07:34:00.003-05:00

As most of you know, I got back from NYC a few days ago. I went with my mom and sister, as we do every year for a little girl shopping time. We ate fabulous most every meal, and I saved my receipt from this one in particular because, well, you just have to see for yourself.

Yes, you read that right. $55 for mac and cheese. And get this... he told us it was regular $325 but marked down because of the recession! WHAT? Ok apparently it had some delicacy of truffle in it, so we had to see what the fuss was about. It was good, but no mac and cheese is worth that much. Sorry.

well...

2009-05-18T14:41:00.002-05:00

I can finally announce it.... I'M PREGNANT!! again. I'm 10 weeks and we have seen and heard the heartbeat. The newest addition will be here Dec. 13th. - a christmas baby!

homemaker.

2009-05-14T15:05:00.001-05:00

A friend posted this definition of homemaker and I just had to copy.

homemaker:
"The most creative job in the world involves fashion, decorating, recreation, education, transportation, psychology, romance, cuisine, literature, art, economics, government, pediatrics, geriatrics, entertainment, maintenance, purchasing, law, religion, energy and management. Anyone who can handle all those has to be somebody special. She's a homemaker."

"the girls"

2009-05-04T11:32:00.002-05:00

I got to spend time with my girls from Gadsden this past Sat. We met at Struts for lunch at 12, and didn't leave until 4!! We had a great time, and could have stayed longer! We always do that when we get together. Miss y'all and love getting to reminisce!! We missed you, Haley!

now that's old.

2009-04-27T12:33:00.004-05:00

The past week, I have been deathly ill. I've had some weird virus in my muscles and besides that I have a huge ulcer on my throat! So, last night I went to my parents house. Growing up, as rare as it was, whenever someone had an ulcer my dad would pull out this bottle of what we called "red stuff" I think it's really like methyolade?(no clue how you spell or pronounce it.) Anyway, it was suppose to cure an ulcer. So you put it on the ulcer, it burns a minute, then should help it go away. Well, sure enough dad says "you need to put the red stuff on it!" I say... well first of all I went to get some yesterday and couldn't find it. I don't think they make it anymore, and come to think of it, growing up I only remember that one bottle. If you find it I'm checking the expiration, because that thing has got to be expired! Sure enough we found it.... get ready for this..... it was expired.... in JULY 1982!!! ok, this means I was 2 months old when it expired and this means it's been expired for 27 years!!! I just had to take a picture. We surely couldn't through this bottle out, just for memories sake.

Easter

2009-04-13T07:44:00.004-05:00

I'd rather throw my eggs in the pool, than try to find them.

I need a rest in my adirondack chair.

All of us on Easter.

2009-04-08T14:20:00.002-05:00

If you think parenting can be tough, you have to read this story.

www.redsparks.com/playpen/2009/03/30/the-night-the-earth-stood-still/comment-page-1/#comment-1520

2009-04-08T08:07:00.001-05:00

Does anyone else think she is a really a man? I don't know what it is.

2009-03-31T08:15:00.003-05:00

Last week, American Idol voted off Michael. Pretty obvious considering a 1 year old called it by plugging his ears. This really happened.

2009-03-11T13:53:00.002-05:00

Quick update of our lives.

We had our open house last weekend. It went well, more people than I expected much to my suprise. Still no offers... getting annoyed. Cole is taking swim lessons, and he hates them, not to my suprise. I think it's the cold water(even though they claim it's heated), because he sure loves the hot tub. PJ is working late almost every night and certainly gone before we get up, it's getting sad. We're just thankful he is still working! Everyone I know is pregnant, except me. I love the stores Kohl's. It's super cheap, and they have really cute stuff. I saw Patsy Riley in Blue Willow today, she is so cute. Everytime I see her "don't take it out, talk it out" commercials I still cry. Weird. I went into MAC this morning for more eye shadow. I'm in the mood for something different. Well I stood there waiting to be helped, it was crowded, then thought why in the world would I be standing here waiting on these people to tell me what makeup colors I should buy? They apparently thought they were suppose to be making up clowns, no joke. Who hires these people and where do they come from? I left, empty handed.

2009-02-18T14:04:00.002-06:00

Once again, I've taken on another house project. We're having the ceilings redone, for re-sale purposes. It's complete chaos. Remind me how much I hate it, next time I think about doing the next one.

Smelly feet.

2009-02-18T13:56:00.002-06:00

Movie time

2009-02-05T14:54:00.003-06:00

Cole loves to watch his "movie" aka 20 minute shows, consisting of Mickey Mouse and Backyardigans in his green chair. This is an adult chair that he lets me know he wants to sit in. Once he gets there, he makes me round up all the stuffed animals I can find and put them in the chair with him. If I try to grab 1 or 2, it's not enough, he has to have everyone he can think of. This was taken this morning.

I have ordered him the Pottery Barn "anywhere chair" that should fit him properly.

See ya' Georgie

2009-01-20T16:11:00.002-06:00

Did anyone watch the inauguration today? I watched it ALL day. I think I my eyes watered like 10 times. I'm not crying for the same reasons the people there were crying, I was just feeling so proud of our country. I felt privaleged in a way I never have before. We get to live in THIS country. I love that America is a place where you really can be anything you want to be. I was happy for the African Americans that had so much hope for their childrens' future. I was so sad to see George go and to watch the peaceful transfer of power. Or maybe I'm just emotional.

2009-01-20T12:14:00.002-06:00

I had the most relaxing weekend in Gadsden. I love going there because I get to be "off mommy duty" and my family takes care of everything(including steak and lobster dinner on sat night:) PJ went hunting in MS, so we went there. It's so funny how you can live somewhere your whole life, then move away for a little bit, return and it be so different. It's amazing how you change so quickly, according to your circumstances. I'm spoiled by the Summit, Target, Leaf and Petal, any restaurant you could possibly want- although i still gripe there aren't enough options- and the car wash headquarters place down the road that washes and vacuums your car out for $5. I still love Gadsden too, just not for full time residency. I laughed over many things I heard this weekend.

Sister: "I think I'm actually starting to gain weight. I gained 3 pounds over the holidays. I always weighed 107, and now it's 110."

Mom: "I can't find anything in this pantry, it's just too big."

Those are some serious problems. Anyway, I had a great time and now it's back to reality.

exhale

2009-01-15T15:42:00.003-06:00

i think i've broken my back. I need meds... wait, i can't take meds cause I have a child (around here somewhere.) i've been packing up our "junk" so i can "stage" our house for showing- thanks HGTV. this is hard work and I'm not patient enough to wait on PJ to get home, so I'll do it all myself. if i were a regular poster i would say come look for me if i don't post soon, but since i'm not, good luck to me i guess.

House For Sale

2009-01-14T07:14:00.004-06:00

It's a really sad thing to say out loud... seriously, we will both cry when we move. It's sad to think this is where we were first in love, got married, got a dog, had a child and have now outgrown. So, on a happy note if you know anyone needing a cute house in the heights let me know!

My new ways

2009-01-09T07:20:00.002-06:00

My wreckless spending was so 2008 and I've started making myself aware of things I can cut costs on. Since I had Cole, my skin has not been the same. It's seems rougher and blotchy. Well, the other day I went and got my face lotion and cleanser at the Clinique counter. I got 2 things and the lady was like "that will be $91.50" Yes, I've been buying the same thing for years, but it just accured to me I was spending a hundred freakin bucks for lotion?! Well, I went home and I kept saying to myself, I can't skimp when it comes to my face and possibly reducing wrinkles in the future - I am obsessed with wrinkles. Then it occured to me, that's bull crap, ladies you see on TV that are old and look good always give the credit to Oil of Olay. So, there I went, off to walmart and got the "night of olay" cream. IT'S A MIRACLE. My face is it's old self, not perfect, but pretty dang close. I'm free! And I only spend 6 bucks. yea me.

shocked.

2009-01-05T21:12:00.000-06:00

I AM SHOCKED... Deana is back on the bachelor! What the heck?!!!!!

I forgot how much I love going to the movies.

2008-12-28T19:25:00.003-06:00

Cole is still at the grandparents and I got to go to the movies, it has been forever! Advice to all, go see Marley and Me! I am a dog lover, however, I have terrible allergies and can't always show this. I have to pet Jack practically through our window. Tonight -bring on the benedryl- he is sleeping with me! Okay, kidding... but I wish. Oh, and bring tissues.. bulk kind..from Sams.

I'm Pretty Famous.

2008-12-23T10:47:00.002-06:00

Yes, it's true. page 127 in Southern Living. I have a signing at Books-A-Million at 1pm.

e-mealz

2008-12-18T08:16:00.003-06:00

I heard about e-mealz through a small group I was in last semester. Well, it has to be the best idea I've ever heard. I am paying someone $5 a month to plan my meals, exact my grocery list and guarantee I won't spend more than $40 a week on dinner. The first meal was great! I'll let ya know how it goes.

2008-12-15T15:45:00.003-06:00

I have not been in the Christmas spirit. I don't know why, but it just doesn't feel the same. Is it age or the fact our economy sucks so bad, I feel that I'm taking a gamble each time I buy a gift. Not sure, but this afternoon I decided maybe if I made something "Christmas-y" I would get in the spirit. Here is the turn out, snowmen with earmuffs. Honestly, I still feel the same and now I will weigh more.