Sawyer's Blessing

On Saturday, we celebrated some Spring Babies on the way. First, Linds and I went to a shower for our sweet friend Reid and Baby Lane on the way. Then yesterday afternoon, we had a time of "Blessing' for Lindsay's Sawyer-boy. All of Lindsay and Daniel's close family women gathered to pray over Linds with blessings, offer advice and well wishes, indulge in desserts, and shower her with gifts.

This picture is a sampling of the gifts she and Sawyer recieved.
We had her party at my Grandmama Holt's house. She made Lindsay's favorite dessert, pound cake. We served it with a chocolate sauce and strawberries and/or a lemon sauce and blueberries. It was soooo delicious. My grandmother is a Master Gardner, so the flowers she displayed were beautiful. She is also the quintessential hostess--just look at all of her silver and crystal serving pieces--and really enjoyed hosting this for Linds.


A close up of some of Sawyer's personalized goodies. Mom gave her the lovey and bib in the middle; the bib goes with the "coming home" outfit that she got him. The burp cloth and bib on the edges were from me. :)

This is an outfit that Daniel's grandmother made him. I thought it was so adorable.

The white and navy smocked outfits in the middle were outfits that Daniel wore as a little boy--also made by his grandmother. His mom brought a box full of his old clothes, and our favorite items in that box were the cowboy boots he wore as a little boy. Adorable. (Btw, the yellow and blue Polo romper on the edge was also from me. :))

This is a shot of the women in my family who were able to come. Mom, Grandmama Dean, me, Linds, Aunt J (Mom's sis), Grandmama Holt, and Cousin Loren.

Meanwhile, at home, Addybelle was enjoying a Daddy-Daughter day. In this pose, she is proudly donning her new hat. They had a ball, and I was able to join them for an afternoon at the park. It was a beautiful Saturday.

On Saturday, we celebrated some Spring Babies on the way. First, Linds and I went to a shower for our sweet friend Reid and Baby Lane on the way. Then yesterday afternoon, we had a time of "Blessing' for Lindsay's Sawyer-boy. All of Lindsay and Daniel's close family women gathered to pray over Linds with blessings, offer advice and well wishes, indulge in desserts, and shower her with gifts.

This picture is a sampling of the gifts she and Sawyer recieved.
We had her party at my Grandmama Holt's house. She made Lindsay's favorite dessert, pound cake. We served it with a chocolate sauce and strawberries and/or a lemon sauce and blueberries. It was soooo delicious. My grandmother is a Master Gardner, so the flowers she displayed were beautiful. She is also the quintessential hostess--just look at all of her silver and crystal serving pieces--and really enjoyed hosting this for Linds.


A close up of some of Sawyer's personalized goodies. Mom gave her the lovey and bib in the middle; the bib goes with the "coming home" outfit that she got him. The burp cloth and bib on the edges were from me. :)

This is an outfit that Daniel's grandmother made him. I thought it was so adorable.

The white and navy smocked outfits in the middle were outfits that Daniel wore as a little boy--also made by his grandmother. His mom brought a box full of his old clothes, and our favorite items in that box were the cowboy boots he wore as a little boy. Adorable. (Btw, the yellow and blue Polo romper on the edge was also from me. :))

This is a shot of the women in my family who were able to come. Mom, Grandmama Dean, me, Linds, Aunt J (Mom's sis), Grandmama Holt, and Cousin Loren.

Meanwhile, at home, Addybelle was enjoying a Daddy-Daughter day. In this pose, she is proudly donning her new hat. They had a ball, and I was able to join them for an afternoon at the park. It was a beautiful Saturday.

Spring is in the air!

Finally! And boy have we been enjoying all that comes with it. Since it's been another month-long posting drought, this one will be a picture-caption recap. Hopefully I'll get back into the swing of things on this blog soon.

First, look at this mischievous grin. Think we might have our hands full?

At our class' Easter Egg hunt at Harris Fisher's house. Just getting into the groove of hunting eggs.
Celebrating Aunt Lindsay's birthday with song and dance.

One of A's new favorite animals at the zoo. "'Raffs!"

Hunting eggs at the zoo's Eggstravaganza!

Ready for her third egg hunt in her Easter best from her Nana

Looking at their loot.

Family Easter pic.

We've had a fun and busy month. We enjoyed a visit from Steven, have re-landscaped our yard, and enjoyed Spring Break.

The end.

Finally! And boy have we been enjoying all that comes with it. Since it's been another month-long posting drought, this one will be a picture-caption recap. Hopefully I'll get back into the swing of things on this blog soon.

First, look at this mischievous grin. Think we might have our hands full?

At our class' Easter Egg hunt at Harris Fisher's house. Just getting into the groove of hunting eggs.
Celebrating Aunt Lindsay's birthday with song and dance.

One of A's new favorite animals at the zoo. "'Raffs!"

Hunting eggs at the zoo's Eggstravaganza!

Ready for her third egg hunt in her Easter best from her Nana

Looking at their loot.

Family Easter pic.

We've had a fun and busy month. We enjoyed a visit from Steven, have re-landscaped our yard, and enjoyed Spring Break.

The end.

February Recap

Can't believe it's been a month since I last updated this page. February was a month--that's for sure. Our family ran the gamut and experienced a wide berth of events.

We dealt with health issues:Miss Addy-belle had her tube procedure. She was a trooper. During pre-op, Mom and I distracted her with all of the pictures of trees and flowers in the waiting room. We took her through her repertoire of tricks--focusing on her new favorite--jumping. She bends down low, rocks back and forth, and announces "zsump!"

Post-op wasn't quite as successful. We heard her wails as soon as we walked into recovery area, and when we got to her, she was being held against her will by a well-meaning, effeminate male nurse. He was a bit on the snarky side, and when he got in her face and tried to get her to kiss him, she... in the only word I can think of to describe this event... b*!@#-slapped him! I was mortified, but part of me wanted to shrug my shoulders and tell him that I told him not to get in her face. Needless to say, every nurse in the recovery room got a good laugh and told us we'd be retelling that story to all of her prospective suitors during her dating years. I couldn't get us out of there fast enough. Her recovery has gone well, and we are praying that her ears will have the help they need now!

During this month, I've also learn that I have hypothyroidism--to a pretty extreme degree... I knew something wasn't "right" with me, and upon diagnosis and researching the condition, I found that I fit every symptom in the book. I honestly don't know how I had been functioning at all with my levels so out of whack. My condition probably spiked postpartum, but with family history, it was likely bound to come at some point. While it is humbling to realize that I will potentially be on medication for the rest of my life, it's also reassuring to finally be able to explain why I've felt so off and to know that this situation can be corrected.

My brother-in-law has also experienced some scary events as he was hospitalized after having a probable TIA (mini stroke). After running every test in the book, the doctors at Vanderbilt diagnosed him with having a hole in his heart that was responsible for the stroke. He will undergo several more outpatient tests with his new neurologist and cardiologist to determine his plan of treatment. Please keep Daniel and Lindsay, Savannah and Baby Sawyer (on the way) in your prayers.

While all of these health issues can seem doom and gloomish, they really have reminded us not to take whatever measure of health we have for granted. It has humbled us to the very core fact that we are humans, created from dust, only to walk this earth during the times and places that the Lord has determined for us. It has made us want to make every day, every moment count. It has made us want to count our blessings.

During this month, we also celebrated:Our first big event of the month was an 80's party hosted by our great friends Chris and Bond. I wore leggings with keds, a hot pink dress with a bright turquoise shirt with an oversized shoulder-padded blazer and big belt, and of course, a side pony-tail. Patrick went more Miami Vice-ish, his blazer and bright shirt paired with tight-rolled acid washed jeans and loafers. We didn't get good pics of the kiddos, but Addison had leg warmers over her leggings, a jean jacket and a high ponytail, while sweet Jackson went all prep. We all had a blast, and we enjoyed our blast from the past!We also celebrated the upcoming birth of Kelly and Evan McCasland's little girl. Isn't Kel the cutest pregnant girl! We are so excited for them, and Kelly is going to be a great mom.

We also celebrated my dad's parents' 80th birthdays. Both of them turned 80 in February, and we dined at JAlexanders, a favorite of all!

Finally, Nana and Pop came to visit:


Patrick, Addison, and I enjoyed a visit from his parents in February. It was actually warm enough for us to get to play outside some and ride in the Cozy Coupe. We enjoyed time with family.

While I am thankful for the 8 snow days we've had this year (6 of them in Feb), I am certainly ready for some warmer weather. My serotonin levels need it! So does my daughter! She begs to go outside every time the door opens.

Here's to spring being a season of newness to us all!

Can't believe it's been a month since I last updated this page. February was a month--that's for sure. Our family ran the gamut and experienced a wide berth of events.

We dealt with health issues:Miss Addy-belle had her tube procedure. She was a trooper. During pre-op, Mom and I distracted her with all of the pictures of trees and flowers in the waiting room. We took her through her repertoire of tricks--focusing on her new favorite--jumping. She bends down low, rocks back and forth, and announces "zsump!"

Post-op wasn't quite as successful. We heard her wails as soon as we walked into recovery area, and when we got to her, she was being held against her will by a well-meaning, effeminate male nurse. He was a bit on the snarky side, and when he got in her face and tried to get her to kiss him, she... in the only word I can think of to describe this event... b*!@#-slapped him! I was mortified, but part of me wanted to shrug my shoulders and tell him that I told him not to get in her face. Needless to say, every nurse in the recovery room got a good laugh and told us we'd be retelling that story to all of her prospective suitors during her dating years. I couldn't get us out of there fast enough. Her recovery has gone well, and we are praying that her ears will have the help they need now!

During this month, I've also learn that I have hypothyroidism--to a pretty extreme degree... I knew something wasn't "right" with me, and upon diagnosis and researching the condition, I found that I fit every symptom in the book. I honestly don't know how I had been functioning at all with my levels so out of whack. My condition probably spiked postpartum, but with family history, it was likely bound to come at some point. While it is humbling to realize that I will potentially be on medication for the rest of my life, it's also reassuring to finally be able to explain why I've felt so off and to know that this situation can be corrected.

My brother-in-law has also experienced some scary events as he was hospitalized after having a probable TIA (mini stroke). After running every test in the book, the doctors at Vanderbilt diagnosed him with having a hole in his heart that was responsible for the stroke. He will undergo several more outpatient tests with his new neurologist and cardiologist to determine his plan of treatment. Please keep Daniel and Lindsay, Savannah and Baby Sawyer (on the way) in your prayers.

While all of these health issues can seem doom and gloomish, they really have reminded us not to take whatever measure of health we have for granted. It has humbled us to the very core fact that we are humans, created from dust, only to walk this earth during the times and places that the Lord has determined for us. It has made us want to make every day, every moment count. It has made us want to count our blessings.

During this month, we also celebrated:Our first big event of the month was an 80's party hosted by our great friends Chris and Bond. I wore leggings with keds, a hot pink dress with a bright turquoise shirt with an oversized shoulder-padded blazer and big belt, and of course, a side pony-tail. Patrick went more Miami Vice-ish, his blazer and bright shirt paired with tight-rolled acid washed jeans and loafers. We didn't get good pics of the kiddos, but Addison had leg warmers over her leggings, a jean jacket and a high ponytail, while sweet Jackson went all prep. We all had a blast, and we enjoyed our blast from the past!We also celebrated the upcoming birth of Kelly and Evan McCasland's little girl. Isn't Kel the cutest pregnant girl! We are so excited for them, and Kelly is going to be a great mom.

We also celebrated my dad's parents' 80th birthdays. Both of them turned 80 in February, and we dined at JAlexanders, a favorite of all!

Finally, Nana and Pop came to visit:


Patrick, Addison, and I enjoyed a visit from his parents in February. It was actually warm enough for us to get to play outside some and ride in the Cozy Coupe. We enjoyed time with family.

While I am thankful for the 8 snow days we've had this year (6 of them in Feb), I am certainly ready for some warmer weather. My serotonin levels need it! So does my daughter! She begs to go outside every time the door opens.

Here's to spring being a season of newness to us all!

Relearning old things...

I've spent much of my free time during these snow days rereading Books 1 and 2 of Francine Rivers' Mark of the Lion Series. I first read these when I was working in Tuscaloosa with the campus ministry, and the words provided so much hope, humility, and purpose during those dark days. The story of a young faithful Christian woman who survived the fall of Jerusalem, Roman slavery, and persecution with such grace inspired me and touched me deeply.

For years, I recommended them to anybody who would listen, but somewhere along the way, I lost the message--the literary appreciation overshadowing the truth. Rereading them has totally brought me full circle and humbled my spirit in a way that I know I have needed. Although God brought me out of those dark days, I have continually struggled with so many of the aftermaths--forgiveness, trust, the sanctity of the church, the validity of the church.

Rereading this story, in a different place, in a different time, in a different set of circumstances, has opened old hurts, doubts, and fears that remind me of a time I would rather forget.

However, I should hope to never forget that time as it is a part of my story, and rereading these words reminded me about passion, determination, and fearlessness of the supernatural kind... the kind you experience and know has not evolved from your own strength, the kind that I did once experience...and I thank God for that gentle reminder.

As I became more captivated with each section, I realized that I already knew the end of the story... yet knowing that end did not keep me from sleepless nights of devouring every word, turning each page with fresh anticipation, reading each dog-eared, tear-stained page with hope and promise. The end left me no less satisfied, but even more affirmed.

It reminds me of another amazing book with its own wear and tear, full of my tears and joy, hope and promise. I'm thankful to also know the end of that story, even more thankful the author wrote me into it.

In this different time, different place, different set of circumstances, I look forward to immersing myself back into that truth with inspired anticipation as I turn each page.

I also am excited about sharing that story with this sweet person:

I've spent much of my free time during these snow days rereading Books 1 and 2 of Francine Rivers' Mark of the Lion Series. I first read these when I was working in Tuscaloosa with the campus ministry, and the words provided so much hope, humility, and purpose during those dark days. The story of a young faithful Christian woman who survived the fall of Jerusalem, Roman slavery, and persecution with such grace inspired me and touched me deeply.

For years, I recommended them to anybody who would listen, but somewhere along the way, I lost the message--the literary appreciation overshadowing the truth. Rereading them has totally brought me full circle and humbled my spirit in a way that I know I have needed. Although God brought me out of those dark days, I have continually struggled with so many of the aftermaths--forgiveness, trust, the sanctity of the church, the validity of the church.

Rereading this story, in a different place, in a different time, in a different set of circumstances, has opened old hurts, doubts, and fears that remind me of a time I would rather forget.

However, I should hope to never forget that time as it is a part of my story, and rereading these words reminded me about passion, determination, and fearlessness of the supernatural kind... the kind you experience and know has not evolved from your own strength, the kind that I did once experience...and I thank God for that gentle reminder.

As I became more captivated with each section, I realized that I already knew the end of the story... yet knowing that end did not keep me from sleepless nights of devouring every word, turning each page with fresh anticipation, reading each dog-eared, tear-stained page with hope and promise. The end left me no less satisfied, but even more affirmed.

It reminds me of another amazing book with its own wear and tear, full of my tears and joy, hope and promise. I'm thankful to also know the end of that story, even more thankful the author wrote me into it.

In this different time, different place, different set of circumstances, I look forward to immersing myself back into that truth with inspired anticipation as I turn each page.

I also am excited about sharing that story with this sweet person:

Fun with old things...

This weekend we tried to recreate this: (me at about the age Addison is now)
But I'm not a bonnet girl (meaning I don't know how to tie/position them because my daughter doesn't wear them), and about the best we could come up with was this: (my same dress and bonnet after many laughs, readjustments, wardrobe malfunctions, etc.)
It was fun, but I think we'll try for another photo shoot tomorrow!

This weekend we tried to recreate this: (me at about the age Addison is now)
But I'm not a bonnet girl (meaning I don't know how to tie/position them because my daughter doesn't wear them), and about the best we could come up with was this: (my same dress and bonnet after many laughs, readjustments, wardrobe malfunctions, etc.)
It was fun, but I think we'll try for another photo shoot tomorrow!

It's finally starting to pay off...

So, this summer I posted looking for couponing tips. I have been "getting the hang of it" over the past several months, and with the help of this book that I got with a birthday giftcard (Thanks, Ames!), I am figuring out how to make it work:
This past week I saved 40% of my bill. I spent $102 this past week, and I saved $68. Plus, I've only read 4 chapters of the book so far! I used the strategies that she suggested, and I am hoping that I can hone my strategies even more, consequently saving more. So, I'd love to keep hearing any tips you have that you are figuring out along the way.

Although I'm only 4 chapters in, I'd recommend this book if you are interested in saving some moo-lah!

It's about to be Spring Consignment Season, and I am gearing up to plan my strategies with that again too!

So, this summer I posted looking for couponing tips. I have been "getting the hang of it" over the past several months, and with the help of this book that I got with a birthday giftcard (Thanks, Ames!), I am figuring out how to make it work:
This past week I saved 40% of my bill. I spent $102 this past week, and I saved $68. Plus, I've only read 4 chapters of the book so far! I used the strategies that she suggested, and I am hoping that I can hone my strategies even more, consequently saving more. So, I'd love to keep hearing any tips you have that you are figuring out along the way.

Although I'm only 4 chapters in, I'd recommend this book if you are interested in saving some moo-lah!

It's about to be Spring Consignment Season, and I am gearing up to plan my strategies with that again too!

Teacher moment of the day...

"Let us think of ways to encourage one another
to outbursts of love and good deeds."
~Hebrews 10:24

Everyone needs encouragement... As a teacher, I don't get a lot of "atta boy" pats on the back. That was my choice though. Venturing into the high school English classroom doesn't always provide a teacher with inspiration, appreciation, validation. But every once in a while I have one of those moments that makes my profession, my calling, worth it.

Today, one of my former students signed a scholarship to play soccer. It was a big deal. Last week, I received an email from her mother inviting me to be there. She said that I was her daughter's "favorite teacher in high school, and I had instilled a love of reading and learning in her that would continue to influence her in her coming years." I was so humbled. I had no idea. I "keep up" with this student like I do all my former kiddos--catching up when I see them in hallways, ask them sports questions if they are athletes, music/theater questions if they are drama kids, but it's mostly just polite chit chat. To be invited to a scholarship signing by the parents of a former student was a high honor to me--silly as it may seem to some of you--and you better believe I got coverage for my class and showed up. It was cool. I am so proud of her.

I only wish the feeling had continued into the next 30 minute period when I received an angry email from a parent questioning me on why I hadn't recommended their child to take AP English next year... Ah the fleeting joys of the high school world. I'm gonna live on that first moment for awhile though.

"Let us think of ways to encourage one another
to outbursts of love and good deeds."
~Hebrews 10:24

Everyone needs encouragement... As a teacher, I don't get a lot of "atta boy" pats on the back. That was my choice though. Venturing into the high school English classroom doesn't always provide a teacher with inspiration, appreciation, validation. But every once in a while I have one of those moments that makes my profession, my calling, worth it.

Today, one of my former students signed a scholarship to play soccer. It was a big deal. Last week, I received an email from her mother inviting me to be there. She said that I was her daughter's "favorite teacher in high school, and I had instilled a love of reading and learning in her that would continue to influence her in her coming years." I was so humbled. I had no idea. I "keep up" with this student like I do all my former kiddos--catching up when I see them in hallways, ask them sports questions if they are athletes, music/theater questions if they are drama kids, but it's mostly just polite chit chat. To be invited to a scholarship signing by the parents of a former student was a high honor to me--silly as it may seem to some of you--and you better believe I got coverage for my class and showed up. It was cool. I am so proud of her.

I only wish the feeling had continued into the next 30 minute period when I received an angry email from a parent questioning me on why I hadn't recommended their child to take AP English next year... Ah the fleeting joys of the high school world. I'm gonna live on that first moment for awhile though.

Rainy Days, the new Chick Fil-A, and some sweet moments of late

It's been raining quite a bit here, but this little girl doesn't seem to mind. She's a tad bit obsessed with her new rain gear... coming at me with her boots, saying, "MoMma... Boots!!!" as she sits down and motions for me to put them on her.


Last night we ventured to the new Chick Fil-A that opened with our good friends the Stephens. Addison started "Moo-ing" as soon as we pulled into the parking lot. She had so much fun playing with her bud, Carter. They "hugged" several times--here is a shot of one of those times.

Isn't this little guy adorable?

Loving her time in the toddler play area... Speaking of Chick Fil-A playgrounds... Have you ever noticed that these play areas are very loosely chaperoned at best. The four of us pretty much set up a barricade in the toddler area because so many big kids were pushing our tykes around. Not wanting to be "helicopter parents," what do you think is the proper amount of supervision in venues like this? Just curious.
Addison loves her "Ruf." This is a stuffed hot pink dog with turquoise ears that her teachers at school got her. The only other stuffed animal she's taken to is her Elbo (Elmo), but this dog takes the cake. She'll hug him and go, "Awwww. Ruf Ruf Ruf." She never lets him go. Seriously.

This pic was before her Sunday afternoon nap. She had a busy morning at church. She's decided she loves church. We pulled in this morning, and she started saying, "Yay!" and giggling. She made it through most of the service with the aide of goldfish, her quiet book, and her crayon pouch, and when it came time for class, she said, "Bible? Pat Bible?" Earlier in the week, she had gone to Patrick's bedside table, picked up P's Bible, brought it to me, and said, "BIBLE!" So we patted it, and we opened it, and pointed to the words, and said, "God loves Addison!" She repeated it and clapped while yelling, "YAY!" It melted my heart. Melted.

It's been raining quite a bit here, but this little girl doesn't seem to mind. She's a tad bit obsessed with her new rain gear... coming at me with her boots, saying, "MoMma... Boots!!!" as she sits down and motions for me to put them on her.


Last night we ventured to the new Chick Fil-A that opened with our good friends the Stephens. Addison started "Moo-ing" as soon as we pulled into the parking lot. She had so much fun playing with her bud, Carter. They "hugged" several times--here is a shot of one of those times.

Isn't this little guy adorable?

Loving her time in the toddler play area... Speaking of Chick Fil-A playgrounds... Have you ever noticed that these play areas are very loosely chaperoned at best. The four of us pretty much set up a barricade in the toddler area because so many big kids were pushing our tykes around. Not wanting to be "helicopter parents," what do you think is the proper amount of supervision in venues like this? Just curious.
Addison loves her "Ruf." This is a stuffed hot pink dog with turquoise ears that her teachers at school got her. The only other stuffed animal she's taken to is her Elbo (Elmo), but this dog takes the cake. She'll hug him and go, "Awwww. Ruf Ruf Ruf." She never lets him go. Seriously.

This pic was before her Sunday afternoon nap. She had a busy morning at church. She's decided she loves church. We pulled in this morning, and she started saying, "Yay!" and giggling. She made it through most of the service with the aide of goldfish, her quiet book, and her crayon pouch, and when it came time for class, she said, "Bible? Pat Bible?" Earlier in the week, she had gone to Patrick's bedside table, picked up P's Bible, brought it to me, and said, "BIBLE!" So we patted it, and we opened it, and pointed to the words, and said, "God loves Addison!" She repeated it and clapped while yelling, "YAY!" It melted my heart. Melted.

We've been referred...

Despite her urgent pleas to "Momma... Daddy... Dowa (Dora)... Elbo (Elmo)..." as she endured her most recent ear exam, nobody could rescue sweet Addison from her 7th ear infection (and 3rd double) of her short life.

Her vicious cycle: Start working on a new tooth (of which she now has a whopping total of 6); drool; drool some more; runny nose; runny nose some more; ear infection. Her sweet little eustachian tubes cannot drain her excess fluid.

So we've been referred. I've made a tentative appointment in 3 weeks, and we wait and see how these ears heal up this go around. In the meantime, say a prayer for little Pilly... and her momma who's trying not to be afraid of tubes.

Despite her urgent pleas to "Momma... Daddy... Dowa (Dora)... Elbo (Elmo)..." as she endured her most recent ear exam, nobody could rescue sweet Addison from her 7th ear infection (and 3rd double) of her short life.

Her vicious cycle: Start working on a new tooth (of which she now has a whopping total of 6); drool; drool some more; runny nose; runny nose some more; ear infection. Her sweet little eustachian tubes cannot drain her excess fluid.

So we've been referred. I've made a tentative appointment in 3 weeks, and we wait and see how these ears heal up this go around. In the meantime, say a prayer for little Pilly... and her momma who's trying not to be afraid of tubes.

One of my favorite things about my sister

She still calls me to keep me updated on the newest "booty music."

On today's list: Ludacris' "How Low" and The Black Eyed Peas' "Imma Be."

When I asked her how to spell Ludacris so I could Grooveshark it, she rattled it off like I'd ask her how to spell her own name.

She's the best.

Where it all began: Circa 1989
One of our many goofy college dance party pics: Circa 2000
In other news, my great friend Kris has joined the blogging world, and she has interesting stuff to say. Read her It's Krismet thoughts if you get a chance!

She still calls me to keep me updated on the newest "booty music."

On today's list: Ludacris' "How Low" and The Black Eyed Peas' "Imma Be."

When I asked her how to spell Ludacris so I could Grooveshark it, she rattled it off like I'd ask her how to spell her own name.

She's the best.

Where it all began: Circa 1989
One of our many goofy college dance party pics: Circa 2000
In other news, my great friend Kris has joined the blogging world, and she has interesting stuff to say. Read her It's Krismet thoughts if you get a chance!

Sweet moment of the day...

Rocking Addison to sleep, she sang...

"A, B, C, D, eeeee, uh, G, Addy, Addy, all fall DOWN! YAY!"

Love her.

Rocking Addison to sleep, she sang...

"A, B, C, D, eeeee, uh, G, Addy, Addy, all fall DOWN! YAY!"

Love her.

Some of my current favs...

This funny face saying "cheese..."
Using this great resource to help plan my weekly meals and grocery lists... and feeling inspired through keeping up with her unique story and witty words. I love her photography tutorials and her harlequin story is worth the read for sure! Plus, she knows what she's doing in the kitchen. Her mac and cheese is scrumptious.

Listening to my favorite songs on demand on the great Grooveshark. While I will always be a loyal Pandora member, my instant gratification moments are best met by Grooveshark--

especially when I want to hear my favorite songs from my favorite show. I have not missed an episode, and I refuse to delete them on my DVR. I feel like I LIVE this show. I can find a match to every single one of the characters from my students, and the music just makes me happy--Mr. Schu's not too bad either... :)
Rereading and TEACHING my favorite book by my favorite author to my AP kiddos in conjunction with our "gender" unit.

Graduating myself from a "My Agenda" and keeping my life organized with my new "Mom Agenda."

Ending my day studying one of my favorite books of the Old Testament with Beth Moore's unique commentary. This go around I'm reading Esther as a suspenseful, complex God-orchestrated road to self-discovery with a rapturous love story, and I can hardly wait to settle down with it--and a cup of hot tea--each evening.Waking up to this pretty toothy grin, chapped cheeks and all!

This funny face saying "cheese..."
Using this great resource to help plan my weekly meals and grocery lists... and feeling inspired through keeping up with her unique story and witty words. I love her photography tutorials and her harlequin story is worth the read for sure! Plus, she knows what she's doing in the kitchen. Her mac and cheese is scrumptious.

Listening to my favorite songs on demand on the great Grooveshark. While I will always be a loyal Pandora member, my instant gratification moments are best met by Grooveshark--

especially when I want to hear my favorite songs from my favorite show. I have not missed an episode, and I refuse to delete them on my DVR. I feel like I LIVE this show. I can find a match to every single one of the characters from my students, and the music just makes me happy--Mr. Schu's not too bad either... :)
Rereading and TEACHING my favorite book by my favorite author to my AP kiddos in conjunction with our "gender" unit.

Graduating myself from a "My Agenda" and keeping my life organized with my new "Mom Agenda."

Ending my day studying one of my favorite books of the Old Testament with Beth Moore's unique commentary. This go around I'm reading Esther as a suspenseful, complex God-orchestrated road to self-discovery with a rapturous love story, and I can hardly wait to settle down with it--and a cup of hot tea--each evening.Waking up to this pretty toothy grin, chapped cheeks and all!

Favorite moment of the snow day...

Addison has been calling the snow "milk" (bee-uwk) all day. She runs to the door, points both fingers in the air, and yells "milk!" Hilarious.
This concerned look on her face transpired as she was anxiously awaiting Swiper's attempt at swiping Dora's cake for the 3 Kings Feast. :) I could eat her up!

Addison has been calling the snow "milk" (bee-uwk) all day. She runs to the door, points both fingers in the air, and yells "milk!" Hilarious.
This concerned look on her face transpired as she was anxiously awaiting Swiper's attempt at swiping Dora's cake for the 3 Kings Feast. :) I could eat her up!

Happy Birthday to...

these 2 pretty girls tomorrow! And good luck to your team tonight! :)

these 2 pretty girls tomorrow! And good luck to your team tonight! :)

We did our dance...

and it worked! Pajamas inside out, snow angels on the ground, and we're getting our 1st snow day. Sure the snow is hypothetical still at this point, but even if it doesn't make it our way, I'm sure my little person and I will find something fun to do:

and it worked! Pajamas inside out, snow angels on the ground, and we're getting our 1st snow day. Sure the snow is hypothetical still at this point, but even if it doesn't make it our way, I'm sure my little person and I will find something fun to do:

Needing some more of HIS Power...

in our little girl's weakness this week. It's been a traumatic one for her.

She loves school typically. Miss Mary Jean and Miss Ann have been like 3rd and 4th grandmothers to her, and she would get so excited to see them each morning. She became so attached. So did they.

This week she moved up to a new class...with new teachers, new toys, new everything. She naps on a cot and has to feed herself completely independently. She has cried all day--off and on--for 2 days straight. When they took her on a walk yesterday to come see me, it made it even worse... She ate all of her lunch the first day, but today she hardly ate anything. I saw her at the pep rally, and all was good. She was dancing and laughing and clapping, and she didn't even cry when she saw me. When we got home, though, she ran immediately to her chair, said "up," "gogur" (yogurt), and then scarfed it down. Then she asked for a "bar." Then she ate goldfish... Poor baby. At least she gets to spend the day with her Jaydee tomorrow.

I also have a nutrition question for any of you moms with any advice. Vegetables??? LOVED LOVED LOVED her some baby food vegetables. Now, NADA. Liked green beans the first time--refuses them now. Liked carrots the first time--GAGS at them now. Brocolli with cheese is hit or miss... Any suggestions??? They are welcome here for sure!

in our little girl's weakness this week. It's been a traumatic one for her.

She loves school typically. Miss Mary Jean and Miss Ann have been like 3rd and 4th grandmothers to her, and she would get so excited to see them each morning. She became so attached. So did they.

This week she moved up to a new class...with new teachers, new toys, new everything. She naps on a cot and has to feed herself completely independently. She has cried all day--off and on--for 2 days straight. When they took her on a walk yesterday to come see me, it made it even worse... She ate all of her lunch the first day, but today she hardly ate anything. I saw her at the pep rally, and all was good. She was dancing and laughing and clapping, and she didn't even cry when she saw me. When we got home, though, she ran immediately to her chair, said "up," "gogur" (yogurt), and then scarfed it down. Then she asked for a "bar." Then she ate goldfish... Poor baby. At least she gets to spend the day with her Jaydee tomorrow.

I also have a nutrition question for any of you moms with any advice. Vegetables??? LOVED LOVED LOVED her some baby food vegetables. Now, NADA. Liked green beans the first time--refuses them now. Liked carrots the first time--GAGS at them now. Brocolli with cheese is hit or miss... Any suggestions??? They are welcome here for sure!

His power works best in our weakness...

That sure was the truth today.

We had it all planned--our lunches made, our bags packed, our clothes laid out. We were in bed by 10, ready to accomplish one of our New Year's resolutions of getting up at 5:30 so we could actually enjoy our morning.

Then she happened. Maggie happened. 1:45 a.m. She started pooting loud poots that woke her up, freaked her out, and STUNK. Worse smell ever. She started chasing her butt, sniffing the air and crying, crawling up my back, then down, then over Patrick to do the same. He took her out, and she evidenced her stomach ailments. And she was so emotional about it--freaking out all over the place. We called the emergency number at our vet's office, and Patrick was at Walgreens at 2:53 a.m. while I tried to keep the poor girl calm. A dose of benadryl and pepto bismal later, she seems to be back into the swing of things...

Not us. Sleepless night. Poor Patrick--his first day of his new job was today, and he hardly slept. As for me, it was my first day of the 2nd semester, and I hardly slept. For Miss Addison, it was her first day in the big girl room at school, and she hardly slept because of some emerging teeth...and then was upset all day today. Rough all around.

We had big plans for tonight--to go our to dinner with friends to celebrate a 30th birthday, to celebrate P's first night of being officially back. It didn't happen. We were wiped--emotionally, physically, psychologically...

So we bailed, came home, and in my sheer exhaustion and thankfulness that His grace sustained me through the day, made my husband another supper--this time turkey meatloaf with mashed potatoes--a recipe from Real Simple last February. I'm not a meatloaf girl, but this one was made with spinach and mustard, and I scarfed it down. In addition to using my les creseut again for the potatoes, I also used these sadly often overlooked kitchen utensils:

First, my vegetable chopper. I took a cooking class at Williams-Sonoma, was mesmerized by this gadget, and have used it ever since. I used it last night to chop my carrots and celery, today to chop my spinach and onion.

Secondly, my egg separater. I received this as a wedding gift from my Pampered Chef shower. I have only used it one other time in my 4+years of marriage, but it sure came in handy tonight since this recipe called for 1 egg white.

After a long day, it was enjoyable to come to my house and cook in my kitchen with my little helper so excited to stand on her stool and help her mommy. Her daddy liked his dinner too!

I'm off to bed to make up for last night.

That sure was the truth today.

We had it all planned--our lunches made, our bags packed, our clothes laid out. We were in bed by 10, ready to accomplish one of our New Year's resolutions of getting up at 5:30 so we could actually enjoy our morning.

Then she happened. Maggie happened. 1:45 a.m. She started pooting loud poots that woke her up, freaked her out, and STUNK. Worse smell ever. She started chasing her butt, sniffing the air and crying, crawling up my back, then down, then over Patrick to do the same. He took her out, and she evidenced her stomach ailments. And she was so emotional about it--freaking out all over the place. We called the emergency number at our vet's office, and Patrick was at Walgreens at 2:53 a.m. while I tried to keep the poor girl calm. A dose of benadryl and pepto bismal later, she seems to be back into the swing of things...

Not us. Sleepless night. Poor Patrick--his first day of his new job was today, and he hardly slept. As for me, it was my first day of the 2nd semester, and I hardly slept. For Miss Addison, it was her first day in the big girl room at school, and she hardly slept because of some emerging teeth...and then was upset all day today. Rough all around.

We had big plans for tonight--to go our to dinner with friends to celebrate a 30th birthday, to celebrate P's first night of being officially back. It didn't happen. We were wiped--emotionally, physically, psychologically...

So we bailed, came home, and in my sheer exhaustion and thankfulness that His grace sustained me through the day, made my husband another supper--this time turkey meatloaf with mashed potatoes--a recipe from Real Simple last February. I'm not a meatloaf girl, but this one was made with spinach and mustard, and I scarfed it down. In addition to using my les creseut again for the potatoes, I also used these sadly often overlooked kitchen utensils:

First, my vegetable chopper. I took a cooking class at Williams-Sonoma, was mesmerized by this gadget, and have used it ever since. I used it last night to chop my carrots and celery, today to chop my spinach and onion.

Secondly, my egg separater. I received this as a wedding gift from my Pampered Chef shower. I have only used it one other time in my 4+years of marriage, but it sure came in handy tonight since this recipe called for 1 egg white.

After a long day, it was enjoyable to come to my house and cook in my kitchen with my little helper so excited to stand on her stool and help her mommy. Her daddy liked his dinner too!

I'm off to bed to make up for last night.

Re-entry and my favorite Christmas present

Re-Entry. I learned this phrase from my mom, and it always referred to the first weeks after tax season when my dad was finally around more. She'd been running things for 3+ months while he'd been working like crazy, and during those transitional weeks, they had to reestablish some ground rules.

Now that P and I are permanently back under the same roof (meaning he's not traveling for his job anymore--not from being "separated"--just clarifying), we are relearning each other. This is exciting in many ways, and it is challenging in others. I'm calling it our "re-entry." We're reestablishing our ground rules. We are both leaders in our own ways; we can both be stubborn; we both feel pretty strongly about "our way" being the best. I've been running things for 10 months, and he's ready to get back into the game. We have had many important conversations, some calm and some heated, and we are so thankful for each step in this process, each of our growing pains. We know that the Lord will use this time to stretch us (like He did this entire past year) and strengthen our marriage. Patrick having the opportunity to work back here is what we have been praying for, and I'm ever thankful and lucky that the Lord answered our prayers and that Patrick is my husband.

His being back means that I *get* to cook more. Preparing meals for 1 got pretty old, so I am trying to add some new things to my repertoire. Tonight I used my new favorite Christmas present:


and I made Southern Living's January recipe for Chicken and Dumplings. Yum. It was good. I needed to cook my man a good supper so he could get ready to start his new job tomorrow.

Lots of new things are beginning tomorrow!

Re-Entry. I learned this phrase from my mom, and it always referred to the first weeks after tax season when my dad was finally around more. She'd been running things for 3+ months while he'd been working like crazy, and during those transitional weeks, they had to reestablish some ground rules.

Now that P and I are permanently back under the same roof (meaning he's not traveling for his job anymore--not from being "separated"--just clarifying), we are relearning each other. This is exciting in many ways, and it is challenging in others. I'm calling it our "re-entry." We're reestablishing our ground rules. We are both leaders in our own ways; we can both be stubborn; we both feel pretty strongly about "our way" being the best. I've been running things for 10 months, and he's ready to get back into the game. We have had many important conversations, some calm and some heated, and we are so thankful for each step in this process, each of our growing pains. We know that the Lord will use this time to stretch us (like He did this entire past year) and strengthen our marriage. Patrick having the opportunity to work back here is what we have been praying for, and I'm ever thankful and lucky that the Lord answered our prayers and that Patrick is my husband.

His being back means that I *get* to cook more. Preparing meals for 1 got pretty old, so I am trying to add some new things to my repertoire. Tonight I used my new favorite Christmas present:


and I made Southern Living's January recipe for Chicken and Dumplings. Yum. It was good. I needed to cook my man a good supper so he could get ready to start his new job tomorrow.

Lots of new things are beginning tomorrow!

You know the tables have turned...

when you spend your own Christmas gift card on your daughter...

and you are more excited about what you got for her than anything you could have found for yourself.

Mom and I trekked to Anthropologie last week to spend my gift card and utilize my Birthday month discount. They had the most adorable children's pieces. I couldn't resist.

I did pick up the cute sweater at the bottom for me, and I have some credit left that I'm saving for something springy too. Fun shopping day.

when you spend your own Christmas gift card on your daughter...

and you are more excited about what you got for her than anything you could have found for yourself.

Mom and I trekked to Anthropologie last week to spend my gift card and utilize my Birthday month discount. They had the most adorable children's pieces. I couldn't resist.

I did pick up the cute sweater at the bottom for me, and I have some credit left that I'm saving for something springy too. Fun shopping day.

Nothing says "Happy New Year!" like...

a clean house!

With clean closets!

Usually, I'm the person who keeps her fingers crossed that when people come over, noone will venture to put anything in a closet or mistake a closet for a bathroom or anything of the like. That's because in mad dash attempts to clean, I usually procrastinate and start shoving things in closets.

Today, I want to invite you over, and will you PLEASE look in all of my closets... especially, you, Mom!

When Patrick and I got back from Decatur, we decided that during our time off, we would make our first transition out of survival mode and organize our life. For us, that meant going through every closet, every drawer, every attic space. It meant 3 trips to goodwill and 2 trips to the dump. It meant getting on the floor and cleaning baseboards. It meant cleaning our cleaning supplies.

And after several days...we're DONE. And it feels GOOD.

So here's to New Year's Resolution #1: Keep a clean(er) and more organized house!

a clean house!

With clean closets!

Usually, I'm the person who keeps her fingers crossed that when people come over, noone will venture to put anything in a closet or mistake a closet for a bathroom or anything of the like. That's because in mad dash attempts to clean, I usually procrastinate and start shoving things in closets.

Today, I want to invite you over, and will you PLEASE look in all of my closets... especially, you, Mom!

When Patrick and I got back from Decatur, we decided that during our time off, we would make our first transition out of survival mode and organize our life. For us, that meant going through every closet, every drawer, every attic space. It meant 3 trips to goodwill and 2 trips to the dump. It meant getting on the floor and cleaning baseboards. It meant cleaning our cleaning supplies.

And after several days...we're DONE. And it feels GOOD.

So here's to New Year's Resolution #1: Keep a clean(er) and more organized house!