Amy Clan

TESTING----1,2,3

2009-09-14T14:34:00.002-05:00

Hellllllloooooo!!!! I am quite sure no one even reads my blog anymore...but, just in case you do....I am keeping up with Facebook MUCH better these days than my blog =( It's true. But I have to share...my Sweetie Pie of a husband took me on a surprise getaway last week to Asheville North Carolina!!!!!!!! I think that is the state where The Nester abides????? Well, to some, this trip would not be called a getaway...but for me...I enjoyed every stinkin' minute!! We went to a cooking school for AGA owners only!!!!! We cooked and we cooked and we cooked and it was soooo much fun!!! I feel like I am ready to send in my application for The Next Food Network Star!!!! Heee hee!! Man, if you are from around here, just pop in and I'll just whip you up a little lemon curd tartlet or some couer a la creme filled crepes with some amazing blueberry sauce drizzled alllll over it =) Mmmmmmm!!!! I can't wait to get started on all the things we learned. It might sound a little cheesey but I loved learning all of this stuff together =) Okay, so....there ya go....that's a little wrap up and oh yea....the kids are in pre-k and 2nd grade this year ;) hee heeee!!!! If you are on Facebook...look me up!!!

Computer woes

2009-04-07T21:53:00.002-05:00

Don't have but a minute...I've got to be finalizing knobs for the house ya know :) Just wanted to let my faithful readers know that I love you all.....I'm sorry I haven't been around leavin' you any love...but my computer got a really really bad virus and now I've been without a computer since last Friday. Gettin' lots of things done though...no blog distractions or Facebookin' for me :( I am borrowing Brian's laptop and I sware...I cannot type on a laptop to save my soul...hate it! So, just know, that I miss you all...I'm alive and hopefully I'll be up and running again real soon :) Until then, have a blessed Holy Week!

Lighting and Carpet and Knobs---OH MY!

2009-03-23T22:11:00.004-05:00

HAPPY 4th BD JAKE!!!

Wow! Has it really been 18 days since my last post??? And since my Naughty Puppy has reared his cute little face??? Say it ain't so?!!

Well, nothing really new...except March is a pretty busy month with my birthday (WORST day I can remember having in a very long time! I KNOW! AND it ended with me spilling ICE COLD WATER all down my pants while sitting in the car! Um, yea, it was ugly ya'll! U-G-L-Y!) and Jake's birthday :) I guess I should've blogged about that huh? Still building this house :( Painters chose a satin finish on some of the walls instead of flat...so THAT was interesting :( All was rectified and I brought a peace offering of Miniature Cadbury eggs to my painters. Yea, if you've never tried them...seriously, run right out, right now and buy 4 packages...cause you'll be sad if you only buy one :) They are not the ones that are filled with that filling...they are just chocolate...and they are just soooo good :) I know this is such a lame post...but really it's just a lot of Star Wars and finalizing house decisions around here right now. I'm just ready to move. I know it will be here all too soon...and I'll be stressed about that too...

Oh! This is pretty awesome...well it is to me anyway....Brian and I have COMMITTED to having dinner AS A FAMILY...EVERY NIGHT (as much as possible anyways!) at 6:00!!!! This is a HUGE deal for us, as he generally doesn't get home until a little later and I am usually the one sitting down with the boys :( This has really been on our minds lately and we both feel very strongly how important a family meal is. Soooo, we are one for one right now :) YAY! So, will you tell me...what time do you eat dinner???? And how do you handle snacks up until that time?? Yesterday worked out really well....but I know I'm gonna hit a wall. So, all my smart, bloggy friends...can you help a girl out??!!

NAUGHTY PUPPY....take THREE!!!!!!!!!

2009-03-05T15:40:00.003-06:00

( Sorry, no flash....but if you look closely...it's Naughty Puppy...in a different bathroom today!)

Yep! This bloggin' stuff is really easy when you have a puppy around to give you allllll kinds of things each day to comment about!!

So, you might say, "Staci...why not just keep your bathroom door closed?? Maybe THIS would keep him from getting to the paper, yes?" And I would say to you, "yes, I do try to remember to do that....I do have two little people that forget to close the door behind them...it's hard enough to get them to put down the seat, which, in this picture...as you can see, someone did not." But, today...I DID close the bathroom door behind me....only Mac was left in the bathroom :( Hmmm, I wish I could've seen his little face delighting in the fact that I closed him in the room he relishes being in :) So, maybe this post should be titled..."Naughty Mommy"???? Okay, well, I can't wait to see what this dog has in store for us tomorrow :)

NAUGHTY PUPPY STRIKES AGAIN :(

2009-03-04T22:17:00.002-06:00

OKKKKKAAAY then...so, I managed to get locked out of our V-A-N today....BY MAC!!!! Luckily, Brian was on his way home and was meeting me at the new house...I had left my cell phone with Connor (who was at home playing Webkinz. Before you go all DHS on me...our new house is RIGHT around the corner and I was going to be gone for 10 minutes tops! I knowwww things can still happen, but don't think horribly of me!) So, anyway, Brian thought it was super funny and decided to grab the camera and "take a picture...for your blog!" Thanks Babe! So, just a reminder to everyone out there...don't leave your car running for a millisecond and unlock your gate...you COULD get locked out :( Oh Mac, how I love ya!

NAUGHTY PUPPY :(

2009-03-02T13:42:00.003-06:00

Well, I had just sat down to do a little surfing for some hardware for the new house...had gotten Jake all set up for some Star Wars Wii time (I know, horrible Mom)...and then, I knew it was tooooo quiet and noooo movement around. I knew EXACTLY where that naughty puppy was. He had just seen me put a new roll of toilet paper on the holder. He can't resist :) Ah well, it's easy clean up and that face...HOW could I be mad at that face????? I'm reminded...he needs a bath :( And THIS is once again...why I do not have hardware picked out yet!

Connor's Big Day!!!

2009-02-26T13:43:00.003-06:00

It was a big day at the Amy household....

CONNOR GOT TO RIDE THE BUS HOME FROM SCHOOL!!!!!!

He has been wanting to do this for a lonnnng time. I am really fine with it...I had just never called to make arrangements for the bus driver to work him into the route. It was all rather simple...I guess they really do want to make every effort to get kids to school...so it was a simple phone call...and that next Monday...he was a bus rider! That was the longest weekend for that kid :) He could NOT wait! He loves it...and it really does make it kinda nice for me too :) Sooo, of course now he is asking when he can ride it to school in the mornings :)

Sorry for not updating much lately...ya know, it's all about this new house building thing right now :) We are hoping to move in April!! YAY!

I'm givin' a shout out!!!

2009-02-10T22:10:00.002-06:00

I'm givin' a shout out to my best man...who says he does actually read my blog...but is a lurker :) I love him dearly...he just saved us bookoos (sp?) of $$$$ by NOT having to replace his Blackberry...Yep, he just took it completely apart...cleaned it....put it all back together again...and now, his roller ball thingy works and he can dial someone with a "0" in their number again. Yes, this is just one of the MANY reasons why I love him! He can read and follow directions like nobody's business and he can fix anything :) Even fixes me...when I'm broken...or at least feel like I am :( I love you Brian....lurker that you are....NOW SHOW ME SOME LOVE AND LEAVE ME A FRIGGIN' COMMENT!!!! Muches Smooches :)

YOU MAKE ALL MY DREAMS COME TRUE!

2009-02-08T13:09:00.002-06:00

Sometimes, life is just too sad. Please pray for this precious family.

http://themcclenahans.blogspot.com/

In TRUE STACI STYLE.....

2009-02-05T10:00:00.006-06:00

( You can barely see the V-A-N in the background...it's the only picture I can find...but that's her!)

Okay...seriously, this should make you laugh....I hope it comes across as funny reading it...as it was when it actually happened :)

Soooo, I'll preface this with...I had ALOT going on yesterday...here's how it went down:

I loaded the kids up...and Mac...for our daily dropoffs at their schools....Kid #1...check. No problem.

As I pulled into the parking lot of Jake's school...I decided to park in a different parking space than I normally do. I am generally a creature of habit .

So, drop Jake off...no problem...am beebopping out to the V-A-N...click my remote to unlock the car, get in...am calling out for Mac...because usually he's right there in my face licking it to pieces...NO MAC :( I get a little panicked...call his name again...still, NO MAC. Then I look at the dash...and think to myself, "hmmmm, I don't have a pink phone." And then, in a matter of a millisecond....I was like, "HOLY #^&....THIS ISN'T MY CAR!!!!" I mean, i bolted out of that van and shut the door behind me so fast...I'm sure I looked very silly...or suspicious depending upon who saw. And believe me...my head did a 360 to check and see if anyone saw what had happened!!!

She was parked where I normally park when I drop off and her V-A-N is EXACTLY like mine. At first I thought...WHY did MY remote open HER car?? But then, logical thinking kicks in and realize, she had just left her car unlocked.

Anyway, I successfully remembered where I had parked and bolted there as fast as I could. I did wait for her to come out because you know, your mind goes crazy and you think...what if something happens today and MY fingerprints would be ON and IN her van???!!!! Holy cow do I waaaay overthink things sometimes :( So, after I told her what had happened...she of course was laughing and was not mad but whew, I mean, you guys, my heart was beating so fast and I think I was sweating.

So, there you go...I'm sure it's not as funny when you read it as it was when it actually happened...but just laugh anyway :)

And if you are wondering WHY I type out V-A-N....it's a long story...but when we first decided to get a V-A-N...I could NOT actually SAY it...I had to spell it...I couldn't believe I was driving one!!! I'm totally over it now...and am perfectly fine with driving my VAN!!! Won't be forever...and it was sure nice not paying $120 to fill up when gas prices were ridiculous! Some day...SOME DAY...I'll get to have what I really want....but for now, it's all good :) Oh yea...her name is VANessa...but we call her "Nessie" for short. Do you name your cars??

I was tagged....DAYS ago :(

2009-01-29T15:34:00.003-06:00

Okay....sooo sorry Lezel...http://thesafitribe.blogspot.com/...I just checked out your blog and you had tagged me a couple of days ago :( Loser Blogger I am!!! So, I think I'm supposed to go to my 4th picture file and pull the 4th picture out of it?? K, here I go...ahhhh, it's Connor and Brian...PreJake days. I guess that would make Connor even younger than Jake is now?? WILD! Don't know what they were watching...but such a sweet little photo that had totally been forgotten about :( Thanks for making me go into the old picture archives :)

And this is why blogging is so important to me....

2009-01-27T10:36:00.003-06:00

Everyone (well, you know, all 6 of you whom I dearly love,) Kat, at http://www.sunshineandlemonade.blogspot.com/ (whom I have never met...but feel like if she walked into my house, we'd talk for hours..CRAZNIESS!) is in need of our prayers. It seems as though her husband had an aneurysm this past weekend. She too had just dealt with some crazy vertigo herself just last week. Her family is precious...two of the sweetest girls ever. I just read about all of this and am putting sticky notes all over my house to remind to pray for this family :) Will you please do the same? Well, I mean, pray...you don't have to put the sticky notes up everywhere :)

(Sorry I've been away for so long...just a lot of time on the computer...but not for blogging :( However, today...the boys are home because we got 1/8th of an inch of ice and snow for them to play in :) Amanda...I'm not sure if you are familiar with our measurements or not...but that is the tiniest of bits....but they are soooo excited :) Anyway, I am checking in on you all....still leavin' the love when I can :)

Everyone have a great day!

Signing Off...for a bit

2009-01-13T22:52:00.002-06:00

Okay...all six of my peeps who read this thang I try to call a blog....my beautiful sister-in-law is in town to help with major decisions like fabrics, paint, stains, granite selections on the new house. We hope to get ALOT done...and have ALOT of fun too...so, I'm signing off for a bit. Wish me luck! Yes, we were supposed to go furniture shopping...but traveling in January is not the best of decisions right now...hopefully in April or May :) I hope to show you lots of our decisions next week!
Hope everyone has a great week! Just know, if I don't comment...I still love ya!

Bummer Sooner

2009-01-08T23:06:00.002-06:00

Well, at the end of the day...I know what really matters. Healthy family, friends, food on the table...no National Championship...again, but, life is good. It's really good. And now, I will go and cry until next season :) I love College Football!

BOOMER SOONER BABY!!!!!!!

2009-01-08T17:42:00.002-06:00

Okay, NO time to blog, or talk, or ANYTHING!!!! Gotta get my game face on! Although, I think I've had it on for awhile now :) Seriously, we gotta win this game tonight! If not, I'm not gonna watch ESPN for at least a year :)

Just remember ----LEZEL AND RICK----we pulled for your Cowboys!!! Are you gonna pull?? You BETTER not be wearing blue and orange today :( I love you even if you are :)

GO SOONERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

NOT MUCH TO SAY

2009-01-07T18:23:00.006-06:00

Mac had a time with this tulle (sp?) ribbon (from Aunt Karen) and strip of bubble wrap. I have NO idea how he had wrapped it around himself like he did. The picture doesn't do it justice! We sure are loving our little puppy! (Sorry, try to overlook all the Christmas clutter from that morning!)

So nothing really exciting happening here at The Amy Clan. Just settling in after Christmas and all. Trying to get back into some kind of routine again :) Sure was nice staying in our pjs all day! But routine is nice too.

In other exciting news....I'm going furniture shopping next week with my FAVORITE sister-in-law!!! She's helping with the interior decorating of the new house and has super-duper taste!! Ought to be a reallllly fun trip. I'm really looking forward to it! We are going to North Carolina to some furniture mall (the name escapes me this second!) and it's supposed to be HUMONGOUS!! Surely I'll find something I like :) (and probably A LOT more!)

Oh yes! The other thing I was going to blog about.....I'm once again....making a pledge to myself.....to work out first/computer later. Soooo, if you don't see me leaving the love all around...you'll know why. I have GOT to get back into some kind of shape! Round is not the one I particularly care for! So far, I've worked out every day this week! I know, it's only Wednesday, but it's way better than how many times I've worked out in the past several months! So, just know, I'm still here....hopefully a little lighter and toner :)

Okay, so that's about it. What a super boring post. Oh yea, I've also pledged to learn how to do stuff on this stinkin' computer this year!!!! You know, like right-click and paste and stuff (I'm kidding a little...I do know how to do that, sometimes!) Linking and doing that thing you guys all know how to do...you know, where it just brings up all your blogroll and their latest posts...that might take me a little while...but I'll be there some day :) You would just LAUGH if you saw how I get around here in Blogland!

Okay, now, I think that's all. Hope everyone is enjoying this New Year!

Tooooo much Horton Hears a Who!!!

2009-01-02T12:13:00.002-06:00

So, just a few things I thought were funny this last week . And if I don't write it down here...well, it just won't get written down :(

1) We got Horton Hears a Who for Christmas this year...the boys have probably watched 5 HUNDRED times. So, New Year's Day...this is what I hear over the monitor (YES, I STILL have a monitor...our bedroom is downstairs, their's is up. We shut all of our doors at night and then I can't hear A THING! And I don't like the idea of them coming down the stairs at night if they need something! Okay, done with that rant!) Ah yes, now where was I ???? So, this is what I wake up to over the monitor...."We are Here, We are Here, We are Here" being chanted OVER AND OVER!!! It really was funny!

2) On the way home from the grocery store...Jake says, "Mommy, I love you real high!" (With arms spread to try and touch the top of ceiling). Ahhhh!

That's all I can think of right now...gotta get some lunch goin'. Hope you all enjoy this weekend and get to watch a lot of football!!! (Lisa--I usually always pull for the Big 12 Conference...no matter what...but this year...I'm gonna root for your Buckeyes!!! Go Bucks!!)

HAPPY NEW YEAR BLOGGY FRIENDS!!!!

2008-12-31T10:38:00.004-06:00

(I know my nose looks a little on the big size in this picture...but for some reason, it's one of my favorite pics from our little photo shoot! It just makes me happy because we were all getting Connor with "The Claw"!!! Poor Connor :)

Ya know...I was thinkin....one of the reasons I love to blog is because I LOVE getting mail. And these days...the only mail I get is bills or catalogs. BUT, blogging allows me to get mail all the live long day! It's like my little mail carrier comes at least five times throughout my day!! I LOVE THAT! Just random little thoughts on my random little posts from your little selves :)

So, I was just thinkin about that...I know, what better way to end the year without a random little post from Staci :) ? And just to say thanks. I had no idea all the awesome people I'd meet this past year just through blogging.

I wish all of you and your dear families The Happiest and Healthiest of New Year's!!!!! I just love you all!!!!

Merry Christmas!!!!

2008-12-26T13:33:00.003-06:00

Okay....so, I'm a little late...as usual with this post!

I hope you all had the Merriest of Christmases!

Um, Santa...sorry :(

2008-12-18T22:32:00.004-06:00

All I can say is this....

So today, Jake had his little preschool program and in true Jake form...just pretty much stood there only singing parts he was interested in singing. NOT gonna compare children though...nope, not gonna do it :) (Because Connor, at this age, actually SANG and did all the sign language to the songs...and that's all I'm gonna say!) Amazing how different children are!

Anyway...after their little singing program, Santa always makes a little appearance and the kids can sit in his lap and tell them what they would like...you know the drill...then they get a candy cane. Wellllll, Jake was first in line...Santa asked him what he wanted....of course, I know Jake is going to say a Red Blues Clues Notebook...because he tells me this EVERY.SINGLE.DAY. of his life :) (By the way, if you are trying to find one...they are kinda hard to come by at the stores....ebay is your best shot!) Oh yes, back to the story...so that's exactly what he says. Oh yes, and he also wants..............A BOMB! WHAT????@!?!##??!!??!??! Poor Santa. He was speechless, as was I. You should've seen my face. You should see my face still when I think about it! Which brings me to my next question....WHY???? Why would he say that?? I mean, he and Connor do act like they are blowing things up sometimes. (Only bad guys, mostly) I just don't get it?? I felt awful. I'm so sorry Santa. I hope you still see it fit to bring him a Red Notebook....I won't let him blow it up, I promise. He doesn't look like the next UniBomber (sp?), does he? BIG SIGH!!!!!!

THANK YOU AMANDA!!!!

2008-12-15T21:27:00.004-06:00

Lookie Lookie!!!! (I know my photography skills are so less than desirable...but hang with me, k!) (Also, for my more frequent readers...all 5 of you!...notice the ripped package of wafers...yes, I left my mark!)

Look what my sweet bloggy friend, Amanda from Pennies and Pounds sent me!!! Alllllll the way from Scotland. How thoughtful is that?? I cannot believe I have a friend who lives in Scotland!! HOW COOL IS THAT!??! For those of you who don't know...Brian and I were married there way back in '97 and truly cannot get enough of Scotland :) So much so...the house we are in the throws of building will hopefully---when all is said and done---resemble two of our favorite castles. Well...as close to a castle as you can get here in Oklahoma :) So, dear sweet Amanda...will you plan a trip to OK and stay with us some time?? In our little castle?? I know that it will pale in comparison to what you are used to seeing...but like I said, it is the best we could do :) And for that matter...any of the rest of you sweetheart bloggy friends of mine out there....if ever you are in OK, I'd love to see ya!

Okay so here's the list of what I received from my dear friend:

Lavender and lemongrass shampoo

Rosemary sage Vitamin E Spa bath soak

Heather conditioning shampoo

Foaming body soak

Mandarin and mint body lotion

Honey and lemon lip balm

Caramel wafer bars (These are TO.DIE.FOR!)

Shortbread cookies (Can't remember the name because we scarfed them down and there is only one left! But, it wasn't Walker's...they were WAAY more buttery and yummy)

And the most beautiful Christmas card!!!!

So thank you so much Amanda. You truly were so generous and if you all don't mind...I'm off to enjoy some of my bath solutions :)

Oh yes...just a tidbit of information to all of you who might be shipping abroad this season....I took a package in (for Amanda!)...it's not even that big...but maybe a little heavy?? Was going to cost $150 by UPS and $60 regular mail!!! WHOA! So, sweet Amanda is waiting for her package a little longer because I think I have figured out a way to get her package to her in a little more cost effective way :)

Now, I really am off to soak :) (Because these days, if I get in the shower...I have a little puppy that follows :o)

Oh yea...and if I'm not able to make my normal rounds this week...here's my list why:

Wednesday--Santa's Cause (Instead of the staff at Brian's office getting the doctors presents...they all go in and buy gifts for needy families! Isn't that great!) So, we will be delivering these gifts in the evening. Connor is already counting the days!

Thursday--Jake's Christmas Celebration Program at Preschool! (during the day) and BUNCO for me that evening :) YIPPEE!

Friday--Going to see The OKC Thunder play a little basketball at the Ford Center! We are sooooo bad ya'll. We are 2 and 20 as of now. We still love to go and support them though. We're cheesey that way :) Oh yea, and a desperately needed hair appointment for me at 11:30 that morning!!

Saturday--Brian's office party that evening. Anybody wanna babysit?? We have a cute puppy ?????

Soooo, as you can see...might be a little preoccupied with life. I know I've said it before...but, don't ya just hate it when it cuts into the old blogging time??!!

Have a great week my dear friends :)

BIG NIGHT!

2008-12-12T09:46:00.004-06:00

Okay, this picture has NOTHING to do with this post...I was just looking through some old pictures from last year's New Year's Eve Bash at our house and thought it was funny. Hey Missy and Lezel (if you are reading) hope you don't mind me posting the pic! What I think is so funny about it is...1) Missy and Rick are in deep conversation, 2) Evan is on an ambush mission with his camo hat and gun, 3) Reid,whom you can barely, is trying to get that blue remote control car to work, 4) I look like I'm picking my nose???? and waiting patiently for my turn in Wii bowling, 5) ROBIN is SUPER SERIOUS about his turn in the Wii bowling match!!! What else is so funny is that you can tell the adults wanted to play the Wii so bad that we let the kids do and play with whatever! Hence, the traintracks, the remote control, etc...they still wanted to be by us! Ahhh! It was a fun night!

Well, again...my apologies for you having to look at my torn boxes for over a week :(

I'm so excited! We are taking the boys down to my Mom's for a sleepover tonight!!! We are headed out to a little Christmas party. It's actually a really big party. Every year the main group of oral surgeons throw this huge party for their referring doctors. It's one of my favorite parties because I get to see a lot of doctors and hygienists I used to work with or see at meetings. So, it kinda keeps me connected and reminds me that I did once know how to clean teeth! I know, don't hate me. I was super gentle...you would've like me :) Anyway, they are having it at the newly refurbished Skirvin Hotel downtown OKC. We've been in there one time since the renovations and it is beautiful. I'll try to get pictures! But no promises...I'm sure I'll be talking and forget! Which reminds me of what this post was going to be about...Brian and I are thinking about saying "hey" to the people at the party and then going to do a little last minute shopping, movie and out to eat!!! Is that bad?? Oh well if it is. We rarely miss that party...no one will miss us after 5 minutes any way!

Lisa...what ARE we going to do without college football this weekend???? Oh yea, the Heisman Trophy is being issued on Saturday night...which, by the way, SAM BRADFORD BETTER WIN!!!!!!!!! But still, not the same, sigh.

(We just put our house up for sale....I'm scared!)

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

I Guess Boxes Are NOT My Thang!

2008-12-01T11:52:00.008-06:00

Oops...this was supposed to be a box of granola bars...instead it's a picture of Pilgrim Jake :)

Okay...I went to open a box of waffles (for Jake...for lunch...his request! At least they are Kashi... with real maple syrup, right?!) And seriously, I decided that I CANNOT open a box the proper way if my life depended on it! So, it got my little brain to thinking...wonder how many boxes are ripped or torn?? Well, let me just show you what I found on my little tour:

(I know this is such a lame post...but to all of you who know me sooo well...this was a big deal! I took the pictures myself (they aren't so great, sorry) AND downloaded ---or is it uploaded??--them to the computer!!! I know, I am a sad soul. So, enjoy...this post may be up for at least a week :)

So, please tell me...do you have issues with boxes? Or are you like Brian and it always opens perfectly and closes back where it's supposed to?? He can even get a HUGE inflatable slide to go back in its original box??? MY HERO!

The "Mac" Attack!!!!!

2008-11-22T14:35:00.003-06:00

Okay...as promised...here are just a few quick pics. Brian travelled allllll day long and finally arrived home last night around 11:15. We couldn't wait, so we woke the boys up (hence the crazy hair and absent looks on their faces!) Everyone is so excited and all is going well! (He even slept fairly well in his new crate, YAY!) He's super cute, and of course, we already have a zillion and one nick names for him. BUT...the world doesn't come to a stop even with this new little cutie...we (OU) have a HUGE game tonight. Soooo, we are heading down to the game in just a bit to take it all in. ESPN GAMEDAY is there don't ya know???? No need to worry about little Mac...my Mom is taking on the honors tonight. God Bless her! Thanks Mom...if you are reading??!! Anyway, hopefully we can post more tomorrow?? But for now, just check out the cuteness!

I AM.....

2008-11-19T21:23:00.004-06:00

I AM....chopping
I AM....dicing
I AM....rinsing
I AM....smelling like onions
I AM....preparing to host Bunco at my house tomorrow night. Sooooo, here's what's on the menu:

Beautiful tossed assorted green salad. Complete with cucumbers, eggs, walnuts, tomatoes.
Italian Sausage Soup
Apple Bread Pudding

On top of all this....I've been running around like a chicken with its head cut off (my Grandmother used to say that allll the time...can you just imagine, seriously, I can't) buying gifts for Bunco, getting food items I signed up to bring for Jake's Thanksgiving Feast (tomorrow too!), buying food items for our Thanksgiving pantry for the needy, buying items for Connor's class for THEIR Thanksgiving Feast (next Tuesday), cleaning my house, planning a Christmas party at our house for the 5th, trying to come up with Gatsby attire for a Christmas party the following weekend, helping out with Brian's staff Christmas party the following-following weekend...and then I believe there might be ONE weekend before Christmas to take a breath????? Oh yes, and still building a house :) I'm really not complaining about a single thing...it's busy, and yes, crazy, but happy that I am healthy to do it!!!!!!!! So, my friends....again, if I'm not buzzing around the blogworld...it's because I'm buzzing around gettin' stuff done :) You understand, right?!! I know that you all do---more than anyone :) That's why I love ya all!
And last but not least......
I AM.....GETTING OUR LITTLE MAC IN TWO DAYS!!!!!!! (Say a little prayer that Brian actually lives through travelling with a puppy who doesn't understand why in the world he can't get out of his little crate and stay under the seat????) Oh yes, this is going to be a great blog post I'm quite sure of that!!! Stay tuned! We are sooooo super excited!

Oh yea,
Here's the recipe for that Italian Sausage Soup....I'm not a huge sausage person...but it's still super yummy!

Italian Sausage Soup
Ingredients:

1 1/2 lbs. Italian sausage ( I just buy one package and I used turkey this time...)

2 cloves minced garlic

2 onions (I choose to cut my onion lengthwise. Long strips...Make sense?....easier to pick out for those who don't like onions. I also used one red and one white)

2 cans diced tomatoes (undrained) (I used the bell pepper, garlic and oregano kind)

1 1/2 Cups dry red cooking wine

3 cans beef stock

1/2 tsp basil

1/2 tsp oregano

2 small zucchini (sp?) squash ( I used 4 total...2 yellow and 2 green. I like a lot of veggies and I like to leave them a little chunky)

2 cups bowtie pasta (uncooked)

1 cup diced green pepper ( again, I used 1 red and 1 green)

Directions

Cook and brown sausage and drain any grease. Add garlic and onion and saute' for 2-3 minutes.

Mix together sausage, tomatoes, wine, stock and herbs. Simmer uncovered 30 minutes on medium low heat.

Add pepper, zucchini and pasta. Simmer covered for 25 minutes or until noodles are done.

Garnish with parmesan cheese and serve with crusty bread!

Enjoy!
Wish you could all come to my Bunco!

OUR BIG SURPRISE!!!

2008-11-13T11:09:00.006-06:00

UPDATE WITH PICTURE!!!!!!!!!
THANKS YA'LL!!! I did it! I really really did it!!! Okay, he's the cutie that is on the left (as you are looking at your computer screen!) Okay, everyone, let's all say it together " ahhhhhh :)" I look at this picture a zillion times a day! Can't wait {SQUEAL!}

Okay....this has to be fast. I NEED to be doing sooo many other things.
So, our big news....we are getting a PUPPY!!! Last night, one of Santa's elfs called Connor and told him that he had an early present. Naturally, the wheels started a turnin'. "WHAT DO YOU THINK IT IS, DADDY???" "It's gonna take you a long time to fly to The North Pole!" "Can I come too?" These were just a few of the questions you can imagine we got!!! He is soooo excited he can hardly think of anything else to talk about! Anyway, our newest addition is a West Highland Terrier. If you know Brian, you KNOW he wanted to get one from Scotland. I wanted that too but it just wasn't going to happen this time. Sooo, he did some (ALOT) of research and found a breeder in Seattle whose line is from Scotland. Soooo, Brian is flying to Seattle (or The North Pole if you are Connor!) next Friday to get our little guy!!! I only have pictures sent through email. So if I can figure out how to load them from my email, you'll get to see a picture. If there's not a picture, then you know I wasn't able to do it! (And we all know what our odds are on me figuring that out :o Rest assured, that when he finally gets here....you will get tired of seeing pictures of him! So, here I go, I'm gonna give it a go and then I must make decisions on the new house and get this house we currently live tidied up to sell!!!!!!!!

Wrapples

2008-11-07T11:15:00.002-06:00

Okay, seriously ya'll...I DO NOT know why I do this to myself??? I bought some of those caramel apple wraps...you know, they come in a yellow package and you just slap it right on the old apple. (I've only been able to find them at Wal-Mart) Anyway, I don't even bother with the apple...I just rolled it right up like a tortilla and ate it. And then I had another one. How gross is that!? Just a little daily dose of Staci for everyone. And now, we are off to the last parent/teacher conferences for the day :) Happy Friday everyone :) Oh yea...I have BIG news (NO, I am NOT pregnant!) I will be sharing hopefully very soon :) Well...it's big to us anyway :)

Hmmmm

2008-11-04T20:36:00.003-06:00

Where to start?
I live in Oklahoma. I am Catholic. I am wearing a shirt that says "SARAH!" on it. I am not a political person AT ALL. I just want what is best for this country....and if Obama is that person....then Mr. Barack HUSSEIN Obama...I am ready for you to show me why everyone is in love with you! Don't want to step on any toes...I think we all want the same things (mostly), we just go about them different ways?? Make sense? I'm scared and I'm sad but I do know that The One who is really in control has much more power than any President or Congress. Sooo, I'm at a loss of words. I guess I'll just keep praying, as always...REALLLLY hard for the next 4 (at least) years :) I am so proud to be an American...a sad one tonight, but life will go on :) Sigh....I'm just going to go and watch Eli Stone :)

Okay, then!

2008-10-26T21:30:00.003-05:00

(This is sadly the best picture I have of the infamous maze...it looked really cool...we covered it with cobwebs and put tombstones and stuff like that inside. It was a HUGE hit!) I will try to get more pics before our glorious OKLAHOMA wind blows all the cobwebs away! The boys have played out there every day and beg to have every lunch or snack or anything out there :)

Let me first start off by saying I am soooo sorry that you've had to look at my sunburned self for over 2 weeks....EEK! We have had sooo much going on...a trip to Costa Rica, my Mom's 65th surprise birthday party and we hosted some of Connor's first grade friends to a hayride/bonfire/hay maze/party. It's been a whirlwind the past two weeks. Fun, but tiring. All amongst trying to build a house!!!! EEK again! Needless to say, I am waaaay behind on bloggin. My dearest friends, I have missed you all and I hope life is being good to everyone. I probably won't have time to check all your recent posts but I do hope you all are doing well. I am hoping to re-enter the blogging world soon. Until then...here is a little picture of the haymaze that Brian created for our little first graders. THEY HAD A BLAST! And can I just say, my husband rocks! Me, I would've just been moving 75 bails of hay around until I made what looked like a maze...but my brain of a husband sat down armed with Legos to make a miniature haymaze before embarking upon the real thing :) I love him so! So without further ado......I give you BRIAN'S SUPER DUPER HAYMAZE!!!!

OUCH!!!!! (In more ways than one!)

2008-10-12T22:00:00.004-05:00

Soooo, made a little trip down South for the OU-TX game yesterday. We left at 5:00 in the morning. We were sooo pumped! We had our OU CD blaring while we were stuck in traffic. It was fun! (No kids. So we could blast the radio!) Let's fast forward a little because I'm really tired. We get to the stadium...and yep, Brian was right...our seats were smack dab in the middle of the Longhorns. You see, they renovated The Cotton Bowl stadium and in doing so...they put up a new scoreboard in the OU section. Which took away seats. So, to not be unfair, they gave us those seats...ON THE LONGHORN SIDE! HELLOOOO!! So, if you saw the game...and if you saw the 20 rows of red in the sea of orange...that's where we were! I will admit, it wasn't horrible. I think both OU and Texas fans knew going in to this game it could go either way, so the majority of people were playing it pretty cool. There were some idiotic fans---BOTH sides. Really, just cheer for your team people! Rewind a minute...when we got out of the car...I decided to leave my purse there WHICH HAD THE SUNSCREEN IN IT! OUCH! I am soooo sore! It's the worst burn I think I've ever had??!! I look like a very irresponsible person. I'm ususally super good about those things. I guess I was caught up in the whole Texas Fair/OU-TX game/no kids/got up at 4:15 thing and lost my mind for a minute. To top it all off...my Sooners lost :( It was still a very fun day and there's always next year! So, just thought I'd share with you a little picture...it's not so good, just so you'd truly see how red I am. Truly the picture does NOT do the burn justice. I'm more like a burgundy color. I'm sure it will blister and peel and be all gross for our trip to Costa Rica in few days :( Ah well. So, I'm off to slather a little more aloe vera on before heading to bed. Hope everyone had a great weekend---even if their team lost. But, how bout those Pokes?!!? I know the Safi's are excited :)

DARN COMPUTER GREMLINS! (As Debbie calls them :)

2008-10-09T21:50:00.004-05:00

Okay ya'll...I've had NO internet ALLLL day long and I was just about to go OUT of my mind :) AND...on a day when my kiddoes are at school until 2:00!!! Think of all the bloggin' that could've been done...but alas, I got a lot of things accomplished! So, I'm too tired to do anything else.

We got our family pictures taken a couple of weeks ago. We just went to view them last night and I thought I'd share. I think Brian is reconsidering his occupation and going to become a professional photographer. Hee hee...Wow! And everyone thinks braces are expensive :) But I would pay any amount of money (and did) for some of these pictures she captured! Jenn, you are awesome and made this such a great experience! I'll tell my children to call you when they ask why they don't have any presents from Santa :) Of course, I kid :) Soooo, if you'd like to check out our family pics...they are all right there for the lookin'. I think all you have to do is click on Kids and Families....then choose clients and friends and type in amy for the password and voila...there we are! Again, LOVE the internet :) Now, I'm gonna try to copy and paste (GASP) the address...here I go.
http://www.3girlsphotography.com/

Okay, I think I did it!!! Enjoy!

TAGGED (and I'm JUST now doing it!)

2008-10-05T09:11:00.003-05:00

Okay, so my friend, Amanda from Pennies and Pounds, tagged me...oh, about 2 weeks ago. (She's from SCOTLAND PEOPLE...go check her out! ) I'm JUST getting around to doing it, so sorry Amanda :) You're supposed to list 6 quirky things about your yourself. I'm so terrible about coming up with things, but here goes:

1) I cannot just brush my teeth. I have to floss first and then brush...morning, lunch and before bedtime! (I WAS a former dental hygienist ya know!) Brian and I always get into the discussion of whether it's better to floss and then brush or brush and then floss??? I say...either way...as long as you are flossing :) BUT, I think I'm right, floss first :)

2) Okay, this next one is going to be hard to follow, so bare with me, k? I have three separate towels in my kitchen. ONE for drying your hands. ONE for laying out on the counter for dishes to go on and the last one for DRYING the dishes....although, if it is too wet, I use paper towel. I have to give everyone specific directions as to which is which and it drives Brian CRAZY :) Good thing he loves me :) (I really don't give everyone directions...I just slack off when visitors come...but know this...I am washing them all once everyone leaves!)

3) Now that I'm typing this...I think you all might be rethinking being my bloggy friend....I'm kinda weird about my kitchen I guess. I do not use wash cloths...I use sponges. Certain sponges have certain "duties". The two that are in my little holder by my sink are the ones I WASH dishes with ONLY!!!! And they are put into the dishwasher EVERY time I run the dishwasher. The two sponges that are in the pullout under my sink..they are the ones that are used to CLEAN the sink...and they are put in the dishwasher on a different rack....so as not to be confused with the others!

(Are you still with me? Or are you calling the nearest insane asylum in OK to commit me?)

4) We keep most of our shoes in the utility room. I really don't like shoes on in the house. My boys are pretty diligent about doing this. But here is the kicker...and in my denfense...here in Oklahoma, we have RED mud, RED dirt, I am constantly rinsing off shoes in the sink because they get very gross. Brian says I'm doing my part in making sure the Earth doesn't get dirty. He always asks, "now tell me again WHY you are making sure their shoes are clean before they go outside???" I know, it sounds a little crazy, hate me! (It's really more personal...I just don't want to take any chances of them forgetting to take their shoes off and then spreading dirt or mud throughout the house! )

5) I really don't like milk...I never have. I drink water with chocolate chip cookies.

6) This one...goes waaay back. So I'm gonna tell the story so you'll understand. When Brian and I were just dating we were driving through Dairy Queen for some lunch. I told him I'd like a hot dog.....without the wiennie. Yeah, ???????WHAT!!!! I know, that's what I got from him and this puzzled look on his face! I remember him saying, "I don't think I can order that!??!" But, he did because he really loved me! But after that...he said, "Okay, from now on, we'll order it with the wiennie and you can take if off and I'll just eat it...because that's just weird!"

Okay, soooo there you have 6 quirky things. I hope you all still love me! I'm sure that you all wanted to know those things and will have a fuller life because of my quirks!

WHEW!

2008-10-04T15:27:00.002-05:00

People, People, People!!! I gotta tell ya...after all those comments from last Wednesday's BATW Spotlight...I'm TIRED of typing :) I mean, it's a good tired, but WHEW...am I glad I'm not that popular EVERYDAY! DO NOT get me wrong...I loved going to everyone's blogs and now I can put a face with a name when I see it....and I do LOVE that! But now that reality has settled back in and I don't have to actually use my mouse to scroll down because of all my comments...I must say...I'm okay with it. AGAIN...not that I don't welcome new people...I just don't see how people can keep up with the comments! I'd feel so guilty. Anyway, I do soooo appreciate all of Debbie's hard work for hooking us all up! Now...that I have respread the love...I can actually spend some time going through some of those new people's archives! Which by the way...I am pretty sure I thanked everyone but my eyes were going all crazy...so...if by chance I skipped over you...I am sooo very sorry! Now that I think about it...maybe I'll double check just to make sure :) Wouldn't want anyone to think I snubbed them :) What a fun day it was :)
The rest of this week was spent making decisions on the new house...ya know, like tile for showers and fun stuff like that...arrrggghhh!!! If my dear sweet sister-in-law (who is an interior decorator) hadn't been here to help...I swear I'd still just be standing there at the tile store with my jaw open to the ground! Thanks Karen (and Mark for your patience!) ---you ARE the best! Oh yea...and a little thing like family portraits! YIKES!!! I have planning these pictures since June and then I went and broke my wrist and then had the date finalized and then Dear Sweet Brian decided to have a little Lasik Surgery that made his eye nice and red for 2 weeks! Soooo, we finally had them done on Wednesday night. You guys....I was sooo worried about these pictures and most importantly...how my children were going to act...and they did awesome :) The photographer was soooo great and she even said...I think they deserve double dip ice cream cones after this :) SO...we did! I cannot wait to see how they turn out. The government may have to prepare a bailout plan to help me after I'm sure I will spend a fortune on this pictures :) hee hee! Of course, I'm kidding...I KNOW what we can afford and am a very responsible citizen! Anyway...it was a crazy week and I have missed you all! I have a feeling that my "bloggin" time is going to lessened due to decisions coming up with the house, a little hayride/bonfire Fall party thing at our house later this month, a trip to Dallas for the OU/TEXAS game (YEA BABY!), a trip to Costa Rica...and then it's the Holidays!!! Whew--again! Soooo if you don't see me around as much...that's why...it's just life....and I'm livin' a good one :) THANKS AGAIN FOR ALL YOUR SWEET COMMENTS ON MY SPOTLIGHT DAY!!!!!!!!!!! MWAH ! (That's the best I can do at blowing you all a kiss!)

WELCOME BLOG AROUND THE WORLDERS!!

2008-10-01T21:28:00.000-05:00

BOOMER SOONER!!!

Well...welcome to OKLAHOMA! Please don't judge Oklahoma by my blog though, as I really don't know what I'm doing. My blog isn't all blingy and pretty. I can barely upload my pictures :o It doesn't have anybody's buttons on my sidebar, nor any great music playing in the background :( Please...no one be offended...I just am not very computer savvy :( I just recently learned how to right click :o My reason for telling you all of this is that even though my blog is a bit sad and blingless...I know it would take me years to learn what you all know...and quite frankly...I would rather just read YOUR blogs :) You see, that's why I love blogging, because I can read about how Lisa...just as ordinary as I am...goes through a lot of what I do every day. Or how Kat isn't crafty like me...and that makes me feel so very good :) Oh...and how I wish I could know all about music like Jennifer P. I can also get great menu ideas and recipes from all you beautiful people...just right at my fingertips! Okay, so I ramble and am NOT a good writer...and use waaay too many....'s. I won't keep you, I know you have a busy schedule...(probably still a bit jetlagged from our trip to Hawaii yesterday!) but this is my ONE day in the spotlight to tell all of you how much you enrich my life on a daily basis...so I'm gonna use this post as a way to say thank you for making me feel like a normal person but still aspire to do better! You all truly amaze me! Sorry I didn't show you any pictures of teepees and Indians :) (We really DO NOT live in teepees here!) Oklahoma really is a GREAT place to live! You are always welcome here! And with that...I'll try to upload some pictures for ya!!!

Sneak Peek!

2008-09-29T22:03:00.002-05:00

Okay...so I promised you a sneak peek at the new house....this is all I got tonight :0 I am in the midst of getting outfits together for family portraits on Wednesday, planning a hayride/bonfire for 15 first graders and trying to pick out textures for walls!!!! CALGON...TAKE ME AWAY!!! It's not the best picture...seems silly really...it's just a hallway...but it will look out into the backyard and the ceilings are groin vaulted...and I just like it okay? We won't even be in this stinkin' house until Spring of '09 anyway. Have I mentioned I am NOT good at making decisions! Glad Brian is :)

SORRY!

2008-09-26T21:46:00.003-05:00

Okay everyone...or shall I say my 5 loyal readers....I have only been able to comment on a few of your sites....so...Kat...bummer, I can't play Friday Follies but I do prefer merry go rounds :) Emily...I'm so gonna try your ice cream sandwiches...they look so yummy :) Jennifer P....I've never had zucchini bread (to my knowledge) by yours looks simply scrumptious. Debbie...I would love to host BATW on Wednesday :0 I better get busy ! When I click on your email...it won't let me open it, bummer. Soooo, I hope you read this post :) Or maybe, I'll get lucky and my computer will lift its ban of not letting me comment. So, with that, I bid you all a good night...we've got a double header flag football game tomorrow (I know...HOW ridiculous is THAT!) and then it's off to see my Sooners play the Horned Frogs....hee hee hee! The Horned Frogs...I won't laugh too hard because they actually BEAT us back in '05....EEK! Hope everyone has a great weekend :) AND NOW...it won't let me upload a picture :( UGGHH!! I was gonna give you a sneak peek of one of my favorite places in the new house....oh well, maybe tomorrow!

Melt My Little Heart

2008-09-23T19:11:00.003-05:00

So today, Connor came home from school and as I was unpacking his lunch...I always ask him what kind of sandwich he'd like for the next day. He's a simple guy...it's peanut butter (only...no jelly of any sort!) or it's ham and cheese. Anyway, he said, "Can you pack me a ham and cheese tomorrow so I can sit by Weston...he's allergic to peanuts and when I take a PB sandwich I can't sit at his table." AHHHHHH. I know...everybody say it together "ahhhhh!" It truly did make my heart melt a little bit...HE CARES! HE REALLY CARES!!! (Some days, I wonder! For the most part...he REALLY is a kind kiddo but some days, whew...!) Anyway, I just thought you'd all like to share in that little moment with me :) Now, I just have to remember to pack a ham and cheese tomorrow :) I think I can handle it! Now, we're off to play a little Shrek Checkers! woo hoo!

UNTITLED

2008-09-20T20:14:00.002-05:00

(Oh I do miss those fat little legs!)

I'm tired...I'm REALLY tired!

I'm sorry you've had to look at a picture of my front porch for over a week :(

(Hey, it's better than lookin' at boiled eggs for a week, right?!)

I've been trying to find pics of my big 80's hair...and I'm sooo frustrated I can't find any! You would really love them.

I have been a single mom for 3 days and HATE it. To all you singles out there...I don't know HOW you do it!!!! I'm so glad he is home.

Oh yea, I also spent a day in the Heart Hospital ER with my Dad....he's going to be fine, but whew, what a scare. He is sacked out on my couch as I type :) But, I gotta say, Jake was with me for about 4 of those hours and he charmed every one of those nurses into so many crackers or anything else they had :) However, the only "toy" I had (ya know, I wasn't planning a trip to the ER!) was my Blackberry...which I do NOT no how to use except as a phone....Jake some how figured out how to send a voice message through the chat feature and changed my language when I "chat" to Polish????? Ugghh! But hey, it kept him occupied and Brian has already figured out how to correct all the settings :) Which, again, is just ONE of the reasons I'm soooo glad he is back home :) YAY! Okay, so ...if I can stay up to watch the last half of the LSU/Auburn game...I'll amaze myself!

We did make some yummy caramel popcorn balls today :) I have had THREE! I know.

I apologize for how random this post is but ya know, that's me!

Okay then...I'll try to find some picture for you to look at for another week :)

I'm FALLING!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-13T15:28:00.004-05:00

Are you seeing how RED those pumpkins are??!! BEAUTIFUL! You should click on this pic to enlarge...can you tell, I LOVE those pumpkins!

Okay...I'm not literally falling...I DO NOT want another cast! I just mean I am getting our house ready for Fall! It seems like whenever any season arrives...I'm always excited for it. But, MOST of all...I LOVE FALL! Because with it, brings football and Italian Sausage Soup! These pictures are actually of last year. I just wanted you to see how big and beautiful those pumpkins were! When we went to get pumpkins yesterday...I couldn't wait...and their pumpkins just aren't as big this year. They'll be getting a new truckload in a couple of weeks...but I'm ready NOW! How's that for being impatient :) (Wonder where Connor gets it, hmmmm?) So, we ended up buying some that will work...but they are a far cry from the ones from last year! I have a few finishing touches to this year's pics...so for now, this is all I got! (It is THE perfect Fall, Football, Italian Sausage Soup day here in OK thanks to IKE!!!) I'm off to watch a little football! Gearing up for the big games for tonight....you know who I'm talkin about Lisa :) I was hoping you might need to take refuge in our home...but I guess you all are okay??
How bout you? What's your favorite season and do you decorate it all up!!??

WOO HOO!!!!

2008-09-10T14:49:00.003-05:00

So...I only a have second...REALLY! We have guests coming over in 4 hours, I have to pick up Connor, exercise (yes, I know I am posting and I haven't done that yet...UGHH!), haircuts for the boys and prepare dinner! BUT...I had to share my good news with all my friends...because you are ya know! I GOT MY CAST OFF TODAY!!! WOO HOO! After almost TEN weeks...I am footloose and cast free :) My stinky arm is lovin' life! One last thing...kinda sad...as I was sitting in my ortho doctor's office this morning (for 2 hours--ugghh!), a man was called up to the reception desk because she needed his person to contact in case of emergency. His reply, "I don't have one." WHAT!!!!??? I think my jaw is still agape. Are you feeling as sad as I was? I know you all are...because I know you all sooo well :) At least my computer and I think I do :) Anyway...I wanted to rush right up there and say, "ME, ME...just put me!" But, I didn't. Apparently, he'd just moved here from Kentucky...yes..I was eaves dropping...but I had to know...and you know...you would've been trying to listen too :) I guess his family will be moving here some time?? You know what I told this man...seriously...are you ready? After he claimed the only seat empty...happened to be by me...I said, "You know...if you have a computer...blogging is great!" And then, the nurse called my name...and he said, "Thank you!" I hope he remembers my name and googles me! Then he'll be linked to so many great people :) THAT'S ALL YOU GUYS!!!
Okay...gotta run...WITHOUT MY CAST!!!! (Only left with a scar...on my right wrist...that looks like a poor attempt at suicide :(

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO US!!!

2008-09-07T21:12:00.002-05:00

(I KNOW what those crazy men wear under those kilts :)

Today...11 years ago we were enjoying ourselves a little Scottish wedding day!!! ELEVEN years ago! I can't believe it! Today, we celebrated with seeing the Broadway show Mama Mia (FABULOUS!) and a dinner at Mahogany's (Yumm!) We had a sitter come right after church until 7:30 tonight! What a day...and there's a little evening left...so instead of blogging...I'm gonna go spend it with my beloved! (Oh...and Lisa...a did have a shot...can you believe it! I held true to my word...it wasn't tequila though...it was a Midori Sunset shot..it was very pretty! It still counts right? The bartender said...I wouldn't go tellin' people what it has in it...but here I am telling the whole blogworld! Ah well!) For all the rest of you who want to know what I'm talking about...you can go to Lisa's blog...very busy mom with 4...and read the act of random kindess she and her hubby gave on their date night! So cute!

UGGGHHH!!!

2008-09-04T18:26:00.005-05:00

Chase the Rabbit...Chase the Rabbit...

HOLLLLD on to him...

Okay..I thought for sure I had a post titled this in the past...but I guess not! It seems I say this a lot :) Anyway...I've said this a million times...life sure does get in the way of bloggin'!

Today, when I picked Connor up from school he was so excited about learning how to tie his shoes!!! I mean, seriously, the child was asking what to do as I'm trying to get us SAFELY out of the parking lot! UGGGHH!! I'm trying not to be frustrated with him and politely say I'll show him how when we get home. After a big sigh...he's okay with it. Okay, so, we get home...backpack/lunchbox dropped right at the door of course....and attempt to learn how to tie shoelaces. Oh ya'll! It's soooo hard to try to tell AND show a 6 yr old how to do this thing I do everyday and have since I was probably in first grade! UGGHHH!! (AND remember my friends...I STILL have my cast on!) So, I resort to the internet. We look at pictures and I try to explain and he sits in my lap and we try to tie them together...you gettin' the picture?? I could have THROWN that shoe across the room! BUT, I didn't and I kept my composure because that was all he needed was to see me frustrated :) His little hands were a sweatin'! Finally, he looked up at me and said, "Can I just try this on my own somewhere else?" I said, "Sure...but just remember, it's gonna take A LOT of practice and patience, k?" "Okay Mommy." So, he goes into the living room...sits down and 2 seconds later...voila...HE DID IT!!! HE was proud! I was proud! He said, "Take a picture for our blog!" "I need to call Daddy and Mimi!" I was so proud of him...but mostly I was glad he figured out...because seriously, ya'll...I was having issues!

I gotta go now...Brian and Connor are having a little pizza night at school so that means it's just the Jakester and me...and, well, I feel a little guilty being on the computer :)

Have a good evening everyone...I mean, all my 5 readers!

Oh...before I go...can I just say...I'm not much into politics...but OH MY GOSH...Sara (sorry don't know if it's with an h or not!) Palin is SOMETHIN'!!! People...if you didn't hear her speak last night...you REALLY must youtube it something...because it's sooo worth it! Okay, that's all the politics from me :) Now, really...have a great evening!

HAPPY LABOR DAY!!!

2008-08-29T14:42:00.007-05:00

A little fun at the duck pond before the game!!! Jake was a little fearful of that big goose! (So was I :) (This was last year's game opener day!)

We love it soooo much! In our defense...we only make our kids go to one game...because it's so stinkin' hot and humid and long for them! They would much rather be at an air-conditioned Mimi's house while we whoooop it up! (And it is soooo much fun for just Brian and me to go!)Thanks Mom...in advance!

Okay...so you don't have to look at my toilet all weekend...I'm gonna just post something real fast! But not before I wish everyone and their families a great Labor Day LONNG weekend! We are getting all geared up for the big game tomorrow night! Okay...so maybe not big...it's against Tennessee Chattanooga...but WHO cares! It's still TIME and I've been waiting since January! I'm getting the chills already...I wish you could all come with me so you wouldn't think I was so crazy...but it 's such an incredible feeling! If it's televised...in Utah...Jennifer P. I'll be the one on the 50 yard line--2nd Row--behind OUR team--- in the red yelling the loudest! Look for me, K!? I wish I was all fancy and could link you to something for OU football but I can't...Just know...I'm in heaven...It's FOOTBALL SEASON!!!! WAAHOOO! AND LISA@VERY BUSY MOM....I KNOW you know what I'm talkin' about! (Hey I think we are goin to the OU/TX game this year!!! Do you go? It's sooo great! I know you aren't a Longhorn...but just wonderin'??) Okay...so have a great weekend everyone! Be safe! And last but NOT least....BOOMER SOONER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Future Son-in-law???

2008-08-27T16:26:00.005-05:00

Now...I know what you are thinking..."first eggs...now toilets". (Remember I AM just learning to download...be nice!) This picture was taken because there are TWO things that are sooo great....if you are a mom of only boys. Number 1) The toilet is down (Hurray!) and Number 2) (My personal favorite :) Connor put a brand new roll of toilet paper on!!! Don't you just love that! The other funny part...you can't really see...because I cannot take pictures like Kat, Meg or Emily :( is that he TRIED to make a pretty little point with the paper :) but he didn't crease it hard enough...so only one end stayed. How cute is that?!

Okay...DO NOT get me wrong...Connor is far from perfect...but when you see things like this...you just want to scream, "YAY!!! You really DO love your mother!" So, all my bloggin buddies...any of you with girls...KAT?...LEZEL?....MEG?....LISA?...wanna prearrange a wedding?? He'll be a great catch...it's ONE less thing your beautiful girls will have to train him to do :)

YAY ME!!!

2008-08-25T11:05:00.003-05:00

I promise...no more pictures of boiled eggs! I just had to prove I could do it!

Turns out...I'm not SUCH a loser! I CAN peel boiled eggs without cursing!! (Ok...thanks to you guys for all the great tips! I added a little salt and I think the big key was staying under that little filmy membraney thing while peeling!) The biggest part of this post is that...are you ready... I also downloaded the pictures from the camera ALL by myself! So, now I don't have to wait for Brian to get home! Yay Me! If you are a new reader, excuse me while I receive all the bloggy pats on the back from my 5 seasoned readers :) They know how huge this is for me :)

The other huge thing...is that as of last night....I am back to committing myself to work out before getting on the computer...uggghh!! WHYYY do I do this to myself? Well, we all know why...I could literally stay here all day. So, yes, to answer the question you are all thinking...I HAVE worked out and now I'm going to take my little guy to play at the park for a while. He deserves a little special time! So, adios for now friends! Have a great Monday!

Mom of the Year?

2008-08-22T13:44:00.007-05:00

Haley and Connor deciding what ingredient to add first!

Connor "gettin down to the knitty gritty! Being ever so precise with the measuring of the sage :)

Oh yea baby---we are cookin' now! Mix it Haley! (pssst...Amanda...you can barely see my WoodWick caramel candle to the right...see it!)

Um, yea, now see why I deserve Mom of the Year??? Okay, really it wasn't that bad. They TRULY thought we'd eat it or at least TRY it...THAT was the funny part!

Okay...so I canNOT leave the battle with the eggs post up all weekend. So, nothing spectacular...but it's something different to look at!

Back in July, Connor had a little friend over after Zoo Camp. They wanted to "play in the kitchen" so badly and I actually let them...can't believe it, but I did. I generally don't like messes...especially in the kitchen but I'm learning to ease up! (Thanks to a lot of you guys!) So I had some spices that were soooo out of date that I just let them mix and measure and stir to their little hearts content! They had THE best time. Here are some pictures of that day I so fondly remember...because I was taking deep breaths and telling myself it'll all be okay and clean in no time! (For all of you who know me soo well and know that I have NO computer skills...I had been looking for these pictures since July on the computer...it was one of my first attempts to transfer them from the camera to the computer ALL by my lonesome. Welp...hubby just found them last night under My Documents somewhere. Sigh. Last night I actually WROTE down the little tutorial...mainly because I don't think he'll show me again :) ....so, we'll see how I do!) Hope you all have a great weekend with your families! Hey...tell me if you would...do you get all stressed out when the kids "mess up" the kitchen when you are trying to cook??

AEEHHHHEEHHH $%#%$%%!!!!!!

2008-08-21T10:41:00.004-05:00

*****UPDATED*****

I know everyone is frantically checking back to see the pictures of my battle with the hardboiled eggs (hee hee)...and as promised,(thanks to Brian giving me yet another lesson on uploading pictures...thanks sweetie...I don't know why you keep me around!)here it is! Enjoy! (And Kat...thanks again! I really was gonna email you and have you talk me through this...but Brian wasn't as late as I had expected YEAH!) There were more eggs that made it through the massacre...but these were the worst. These will definitely make it into a salad...as my kiddoes will look at them and turn their little pug noses up in refusal because they are not perfectly smoothe. (I'm kidding... a little!) Here's to hoping that no one has another run-in with hard boiled eggs like I did...but if you do...read the comment section...there are A TON of good tips (I'll be trying for sure!) and thanks everyone once again for coming to my rescue!

Okay...seriously ya'll. I'm telling you...complete hysteria here in The Amy kitchen. I'm about to say realllly bad words all because I'm trying to peel stinkin hardboiled eggs! I did take pictures...but you know me...Brian does all the downloading of the pics from the camera to the computer, SOOO...big loser that I am...you will have to wait until he gets home (and he has a meeting after work, dang!) to see the picture of the battle of the hardboiled eggs! So does anyone have any tips for peeling hardboiled eggs without having to go to Confession afterwards?? Okay, I feel better knowing there's help on the way. But, seriously! I'm just sayin'!

The Great Outdoors

2008-08-20T13:29:00.011-05:00

See...here's our angry snake...ewwww

These deer were technically in the FRONT yard...at about midnight one night...way cool...there were actually 3 of them!

Here's our coyote (I feed) in his winter coat! I have since stopped feeding him since I saw When Animals Strike. YIKES!

Here are two of our cousins...Steven and Jennifer whom Connor just adore. When they come we spend ALOT of time fishin, huh Uncle Scott? It's way fun! Uncle Scott...you should see how much that grass has filled in...

This snake was actually just at our driveway and Brian and Connor brought it up to show it was almost Connor's size!

A sweet little doe. Man, you can't make a peep when trying to take pictures of them!

Our mean little hummingbirds! These things really have an attitude. One in particular will sit on the post (for a minute...because they are very busy little critters!) and just dare others to come around!

So, my bloggy friend, Kat, (I hope I can call you my friend!) from Sunshine and Lemonade wants to know what kind of critters we have in our backyard! Her's by the way is gorgeous...just gorgeous I tell ya...you must check it out! Since we live on 30 acres...we do see a lot of wild life. Last Summer, we were playing outside and we heard a "gobble, gobble, gobble!" Yes, you are right...a turkey, but the thing was she sounded like she was in trouble. And she was. There was a good-sized bobcat trying to get her little ones. So she was gobbling up a storm and making all kinds of rukus (sp?) to get his attention. What a mom! The little ones were able to fly (I honestly didn't know turkeys flew!) high enough into a tree and so did she. I guess the bobcat gave up because I didn't see him after he went off into the woods. About ten minutes later...everyone came down from the tree and appeared to all be okay.

We see deer all the time...we even have a deer feeder...but we do not hunt them...no siree! Of course squirrels and opposums and rabbits and tons of birds. On a visit to our pond this past Summer...we saw something slither across the grass and up into the tree. Of course...Brian wanted a picture...so we threw some limbs at it (please don't call the humane society...we were very careful not to actually HIT it...we just wanted to make it a little angry so it would stick out from the branch for a good picture!) I'm glad we did...because now I get to post it! The other little pesky creature we haD was an armadillo. I'm sorry to report that Brian did have to shoot it..and it was maimed...so then he had to kill it with an axe I know...sad. It was doing some incredible damage to our flower beds though. I do feel really bad for it...and so did Brian. He is an animal lover ...we all are, but...the flowerbeds were a ton of work...and money! I hope he was an old armadillo and a wife and babies weren't waiting for him back home :( We learn much about the circle of life out here! We do love it and to the best of our ability we respect it! (We even take the mice down the road...I know they probably come right back...but hey, we try!)

Oh yea, our turkey was back this year and she had NINE little babies. What are they called? Hens or just baby turkies? Anyway, she was nesting a while in the back yard but moved some place where I guess she thought to be safer? We are building a new house further into the acres so I'm sure she doesn't feel as safe anymore. We only saw them one time but it sure was cute! I hope they are all okay :) Circle of life and all, right? Here are some pictures over the past couple of years. I gotta run...today was Connor's first day of FIRST grade! Yippee! I made him a little angel food cake to celebrate...yum! Thanks again Kat for such a great post!

********UPDATE********

I just picked Connor up from his first day and I asked him..."So, how was your day buddy?" Connor replies, "It wasn't just great mommy...it was FANTASTIC!" I very happy Mommy and a very happy Connor today :) Hope your children are all enjoying their schools too!

A Wee Bit of Water Fun

2008-08-18T22:15:00.008-05:00

(Connor DID have a shirt on...it got soaked...imagine that...and he said "it was holding him back" ????)

You probably can't see...but Jake has one eye closed for better aim...and I'm saying to him..."You SUUUURRRE you want to get Mommy??"

(What? you don't think navy blue damask goes in the entry? Rest assured...their home is on the front porch....I just didn't want them soaked :)

Brian sure doesn't look as wet as the rest of us huh? Although it does appear someone pelted him pretty good on the leg there!

Sooo, I'm PRIT-TY sure this is not the evening we had planned...but I can't imagine anything more fun!

It had been drizzly all day here. Which was not a problem for two boys. We enjoyed the rain... alot! It wasn't until Brian got home that things really got started! The boys wanted to wash the golf cart ( which by the way...needed it desperately!) But some how...it turned in to water gun fights in the rain :) Notice I was armed with the best artillery of all...the hose. UNTIL...the cheap thing got kinked up and totally wouldn't hand out the ammunition at much needed times :) ahh well. It was all good. Of course, afterwards...was a little flyin fun! Towels + Boy+ stained concrete = ONE TERRIFIED MOMMY! It too was all good. Anyway...my whole point of this post was this...Connor really needed to be in bed because we have been trying to re-in-state the back to school bedtime routine...(he starts Wednesday!) by 8:00 this evening. It didn't happen...but he couldn't stop talking about how much fun that was! I'm also pritty sure that my doctor wouldn't approve of my cast getting soaked either :o...ah well! It's all good :)

(Uncle Scott...if you are lurking...Connor said, "it would've been better if Steven and Jennifer could've been there!" Ahhhh :)

Bummer :(

2008-08-13T22:19:00.005-05:00

Ohhhhh...here are the cushions...piled up nicely on the chair...that I'm sure someone was sitting on the tip top being a king or something. Sorry everyone...this pic was supposed to be AFTER the next one...so read on and you'll understand! Ya know...it's your daily dose of Staci...isn't she cute.... at least she's TRYIN' to blog! Some day I'll read about how to actually post pictures in a correct order!!!

(I don't have a head injury too...this picture just shows how sad I am to be wearing my cast for FOUR more weeks! This picture was taken back in January...our x-mas tree was still up...I know this b/c of the furniture arrangement!--like you really care about that :) Connor had gotten a medical kit and was wrapping everybody's body parts up! Jennifer P.--notice NO cushions on my couch either...in fact...wonder where they are period ?? Who knows!)

Okay, seriously ya'll...I am such a loser at this bloggin thing. I get so wrapped up in commenting and reading that I kinda forget about my own blog :O No, I really don't forget...I just need to figure out how to actually do it and do it well!! Anyway, I know, once again you are tired of the last post...so here is a feeble attempt to put something up that's new.

Went to my doctor today to have a little looksie at my wrist...oh yea...did ya'll forget?? Well...in case you did...yes I DO still have my cast on...and the BUMMER part is...looks like I'll have it on for another FOUR weeks! Yessiree...that 's FOUR more weeks. Turns out, that the fracture was, according to my doc, "a fracture that a 70 year old woman would have." HUH? I'm only 36. Anyhow, he requested a bone density test and I am in the moderate risk category of another fracture. I know...I should've listened to my grandmother and drank my milk. Ugghh. Oh well, I guess it's better to find all this out now than when I'm 50. So everyone...take your 1000mg of calcium daily in divided doses and 400 IU vitamin D and regular weight bearing exercise, so you won't be osteopenic like mwa (or however you spell that would for me)!

U-S-A...U-S-A !!!! I'm chanting because I love our swim team :)

Copy Cattin' Again

2008-08-08T09:17:00.002-05:00

Okay...so I think I'm just gonna steal everyone's ideas for posts...is that okay everyone??? Jennifer P. from Peterson's Go Public has a fun post up. If you've never been there...you should go...in fact, go now...'cause she's awesome and such a great writer...and such a cute family and a cutie herself...and well, we could all go on and on about how great she is but then I wouldn't get anything done :) But don't stay in her archives alllll day, come back here and leave me one of your favorite memories from reading my blog. Does that make sense? You don't have to have known me for a long time or anything....just comment on one of your favorite posts or two or three or whatever strikes your fancy! Thanks Jennifer for a fun idea!

STACI NEEDS.....

2008-08-07T13:47:00.004-05:00

(Again...like most pics... no corelation with the post...I just happen to like this one of Connor and me from back in 2004! He's at his Mimi's (Thanks Mom!) having the time of his life...I was just missin on him that's all!

Ok Kat...I'm totally stealing your idea from your blog, k? Did you see that I finally added you to my favorite blogs?? It's not that you haven't been one of my fav's...it's just I kinda forgot how Brian showed me how to do it :( Remember, computer dummy here! So, today, I'm one child less...and what a difference that makes in getting things done! Anyway, I played around and I did it! Woot Woot! So, now back to stealing your idea...

So, here's what you do...google (insert your name here) needs...and see what comes up! Kinda funny! Here's what mine were ( didn't do 13 of them...but oh well..:

STACI NEEDS...

1) A name....okay, so...maybe a blog name...for real, instead of always posting under Brian and Staci!!!

2) Mascara---AND I DO! That is sooo funny!

3) To pay attention to what is going on in the industry! (Maybe the blog industry??? I so need to get with it and just learn how to do this bloggin' stuff!)

4) To email Nicole---Too funny! I just saw my cousin whom I haven't seen in almost 4 years (at the Journey concert a couple of weeks ago!) So, guess I need to get her email!

5) To go up and stop hiding behind the whole, "I'm black and I'm a girl so poop." Um, whatever????

6) A photo to post. Okay, alright already! I know...my last post was up for sooo long and not even a picture with it :(

7) To change her picture....yea, we've established THAT one!

8) Some counseling...yep, probably so!

9) Parties in France---um, okay...always up for a party! Does anyone have a great sitter that would stay here with my boys while I do this??

10) More air time...does this mean...on tv or just breathing....cause I do need to just breathe some times :)

So, that's ten! That was fun Kat! Thanks again...everyone stop by Sunshine and Lemonade because her blog is way cooler than mine :) Now, I guess I better find a picture to post with this :)

Truthfully...maybe I'm just a little cheesey and sappy...but I truly have ALL I need!

Ahhh, Refreshing!

2008-07-31T11:17:00.002-05:00

Ok ya'll...it's RIDICULOUSLY hot out here in Oklahoma! Heat index of 102 today...I know, Phoenix is hotter...but yikes, that's hot for us Okies! Predicting 105 by the weekend! Sooo, I went through some of my drink recipes and found this one. Wish I could remember where I got it from so I could give them some propers....but, oh well. (Maybe it was EatBetter America??) We made this with our lunch yesterday and it was oh so refreshing :) Wish I would've taken pictures :( Hope you give it a try!

Pineapple-Limeade
1 cup sugar
1 cup lime juice, chilled
6 cups pineapple juice, chilled
2 liters sparkling water, chilled
lime slices for garnish

Mix sugar and juices in a large glass or plastic pitcher. Pour half of that mixture into another pitcher. Just before serving, add the sparkling water and serve over ice. Garnish with lime slices if desired.

Cash for Gold Anyone??

2008-07-28T22:11:00.002-05:00

I am CRACKING up...Today while I was throwing some dinner together, the boys were watching some movie on Disney. Here's what I hear:
Connor: "Mommy, do you have any extra gold laying around...like jewelry?"
Me: "Um, no, whhhyyy?"
Connor: "Oh there's this man that will give us cash for gold...some lady made $100 extra dollars!"

At this point, I almost burned my good hand because I was laughing so hard! So, to all my bloggin buddies...beware of the man that is telling your children to send in your jewelry for a little extra cash :)

Seriously

2008-07-27T10:36:00.004-05:00

(These pictures have absolutely NOTHING to do with this post...I just love Jake's little reactions and expressions to seeing his first turtle. I was just looking around in some old photos and forgot about this!)

Okay, seriously ya'll...this week has gotten the better part of me. Throw in doctor's appnts, concerts, building a house...eeekkkk!!!! Decisions, decisions, decisions! Did I mention I am not good at making decisions?? So, sorry for the lame posts recently! (And it's still pretty hard to type with this cast on!)

In other sad news...I'm sure you all heard Randy Pausch died on Friday. If you do not know who this incredble man was..you should youtube The Last Lecture and listen to it. I wish I could link you right to it...but did you forget who's blog you are reading?? Anyway, please remember this precious family in your prayers.

In other fun news...The Amy Clan is getting a little pumped up for OU Football! Only 32 more days! It will still be so ridiculously hot those first 2 or 3 games but oh so worth it! Can you just hear that excitement in my typing?? In some polls, we have been ranked #2! I know, I know, it's preseason and all, but still! CANNOT WAIT!

Okay, so here's to hoping I have a better week at posting fun things! Enjoy your Sunday everyone!

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY!!!

2008-07-23T14:40:00.004-05:00

Sweet Brothers!

I know it's Wordless Wednesday..it's my first time to participate :) I have a little trouble being "wordless"! We have a sitter coming to play with these little guys and we are off to see the Journey, Heart and Cheap Trick concert tonight with about 15 other of our friends!!!! CAN NOT wait! I've gotta get some big hair goin' and brush up on the lyrics to Faithfully :) ,the gates open at 4:30!!! I'll report tomorrow :)

No Time!

2008-07-22T09:36:00.002-05:00

Because I KNOW you guys are tired of seeing Brian with a mustache...

My children are being crazy this morning, we have friends coming over for lunch and I just needed to put a new pic up for you! This is a tribute to my new bloggy friend, Amanda who lives in Scotland!!!! So, I went through...VERY fast...of our pics when we there for our wedding. Try not to judge me by my sweater...remember it was almost 11 years ago and that was my most favorite sweater :0 Anyway...always envisioned The Loch Ness Monster being bigger, tee hee! (We are really corny...we do these shots with everything...I think we have one of the Washington Monument too!) Anyway, I'll try to come up with a better post soon...as for now, that's all I got!

Home Sweet Home

2008-07-19T15:48:00.004-05:00

(Okay, so you can tell this is a fake mustache, right? I just think it's a funny picture of him!)

Our Daddy's Home! Our Daddy's Home! YEAH!!!!!

Brian has been teaching at Temple (in Philly) alllllll week! It is a pretty honorable thing I guess...to be called back to teach your specialty! He goes every year for an entire week and we MISS HIM every year! This one-armed Mommy is glad to have her Honey home! Oh yea...that's my name now that Connor has dubbed me...One-Armed Mommy...and you have to kinda say it with your best zombie voice! He takes such good care of us and everything already seems so much better since he's been home :) Glad you're home Babe!

It's All About the Cast Baby!

2008-07-16T19:18:00.002-05:00

Well...oh dear...where DO I start? Maybe a list of things stating what is hard to do with only one hand...and your non-dominant hand at that :)

Opening sippy cups
twisting ANY cap off...especially toothpaste
flossing
wiping (your own you know what and your 3 yr olds!)
changing dirty diapers or wet ones
washing dishes
putting on eyeliner
putting on lipliner
showering (with a bag over your arm)
shaving---anything, legs, arms...
typing
flipping your cell phone open before it closes back on itself
oh, ya know...the list could go on and on...
I don't want to complain...things could be so much worse.
I think God is trying to teach me a lesson of letting things go.
I'm learning.
Sorry this post is so choppy...
I'm eternally grateful for the best sister-in-law in the world! She flew in to my rescue because Brian left on Sunday to teach in Philly for a week. Yes, could THAT have been a MORE incovenient time?? Anyway, my sister-in-law has been a chaffeur-driven, diaper changin' fool this week! And I love her to pieces! So, Thanks Karen, if you are reading...I truly DON'T know what we would've done without you!
Anyway, after one week of this soft cast thingy...plus a foam box I had to wear that made me look like a transformer or something...I finally got my hard cast today! Oh...praise be to God! Amazing the difference! I can actually lower my arm now and not look like a robot! Connor was the "Box Police". Anytime (which was VERY rare..I am a great rule follower!) that I didn't have it on...he would kindly say in his best "mommy voice"..."mommy, where's yooouuurr booooxxx???" Thanks. K, so, I'm tired of typing...but am anxious to get to catch up on everyone's lives. Just remember water makes floors wet in case you forgot...resulting in home accidents :) And Jennifer P...I LOVED your Oklahoma song...made me very happy :)

Fallen---

2008-07-11T13:41:00.002-05:00

Well, I know you all think I've probably fallen off my "exercise before I read or comment" promise...But, I actually did FALL, and broke my right wrist!!!! Can you BElieve it? I've never broken anything in my life! Story will come later, just know that I probably will be commentless for awile...as it is very hard to type with my left paw :( I had to have a plate and pins and everything, ya'll! This is sooo not fun! Gotta run, just wanted to let all my bloggy friends know I still love you all! I wish I had that Clapper commercial...ya know, the one where yhe ladies in the floor sayin, I've faallen and I can't get up...but, you know me and my computer skills :( So, this is Staci...sounding offf..

Our 4th

2008-07-07T18:55:00.007-05:00

(Sorry about the jumbled up pictures...I've never claimed to be a great blogger :(

Well, I was looking at our pictures from the 4th...and well, since I was in charge of the pics...(usually Brian does all the picture taking) I'm struggling to find ones to post. I kinda started the day off being a little bit grumpy. I'll admit it. But I'm really glad I got over myself...because we ended up having one of the best 4th's yet! We started out pretty early to get to the parade. I have to boast a little...CNN called LibertyFest in Edmond one of the top parades in the country! WHAT? Our little Edmond?? Anyway, I hadn't been since I was probably, oh, 6??? It was fun, all the typical parade stuff ya know, bands, beauty queens and shriners...lots and lOTS of shriners! After that, we went home and Brian played with the boys while I slept off some of that grumpiness! I know, I am sooo bad! Anyway, here's where I think the fun began. For the last 3 years we've been going over to our neighbors ("neighbors" that are 20 acres away !), The Smith's. What fun we always have! They have a fabulous pool and this year we all went above and beyond on the fireworks! Connor said this was his favorite day of his life! We eat, swim, eat, swim, then spray lots of bugspray and watch our husbands try to put on a great fireworks display for the families! They outdid themselves this year and we give them a 20!!! 'Twas lots of fun...wish I had great pics to show you, but alas, I don't. You'll just have to believe me and keep me in your prayers for learning how to take better pictures!

Company a comin' ova!

2008-07-02T16:56:00.002-05:00

So just a little, tiny entry...if I can do that! ??! (I can be a little, um, wordy shall we say?
We have some friends coming over tonight so I tidied the house up a bit....okay, maybe a little bit more than I usually do. Here's why I think that: (These are the EXACT words from Connor)

Connor: "Mommy, I can see the reflection of the light in our floors, that's unusual :) "

I'm just sayin, I don't know WHAT he's talking about??!!

How much is too much???

2008-07-01T22:00:00.002-05:00

Enticing title!!?? How much what?? Sex, licorice, ice cream??? Nope, none of those! How much extra-curricular activity is too much! Let me explain:

On the way home from the lake...Brian and I were talking about not turning into parents who are going here and there and yonder for our kids. Please, please, do not take this the wrong way...if any of you do go here and there and yonder...I just want some answers, really, PLEASE help!

When we were growing up, we practiced once a week and had a game on Saturday. There would be occasional tournaments, but NOT every weekend. We weren't expected to go to camps every week to further our knowledge in pitching for the team! Maybe that's why I'm not a professional pitcher??!! Which, by the way, is fine with me...I'm quite happy being at home. Anyway, one day last week, Brian actually had a mom tell him, "I don't know how this happened...it seems as though you wake up one morning and you are the limo driver to cheer camp, and volleyball practice...I don't even know who I am anymore??!!" How sad. That's how I feel most of the time already on some levels, but not quite to that extent...yet. Anyway, I'm getting off my original point a little bit...I wish I was a great writer --but I am not. So, back to my original question...how much is too much? Maybe I am too selfish? With all the ball camps and everything else your child MUST attend if they want to be good in sports, how do you do ANYTHING else in your life, like have great family vacations and such? Example...we are HUGE OU football fans. Go every home game...rarely miss. I get the goosebumps just thinkin' about it right now :) So, if we want to take the boys on a Saturday... how do we do that if they are in a tournament? I can't help but believe that going to the OU football games wouldn't be more memorable than playing in a baseball tournament? I dunno. I don't want to hurt ANYONE'S feelings, so please don't take any of this the wrong way. I also can't imagine my kids growing up and being baseball champion stars...but hey, I guess it could happen?? I guess, for now, we'll just see what they happen to be good at or like and go from there. I'm really tired and I'm sorry if none of this made sense. Just wanna know what my bloggy friends think and what gets them through! Would love any and all advice!

the lake

2008-06-27T21:37:00.005-05:00

(The picture posted above...was our beloved Baxter...now he would've loved it! Notice the color of the water...that's a little foreshadowing!) Read on so you'll understand:

We are headed to Lake Eufaula for the rest of the weekend. Did you notice there weren't any exclamation marks or anything...that ought to tell you my excitement level about this. I am not a "lakey" kinda girl. No offense, to all of you who are lakey girls...I just cannot shake the color of the water ???@?@?!!! I'm a little terrified of boats as well. I think there needs to be many more rules at the lake. I think people drink waaayy too much and then ski??? I'm a little concerned about a lot of things that go on at the lake, can you tell? I haven't been in years. Brian's office has been taking their staff for about three years now and they always have such a great time...I've always managed to get out of it. But, this year, there was no getting out :( Another thing, real quick, that concerns me...you see people drinking alllll day long...yet no one ever gets out of the lake to go the bathroom??? Ooooh! I dunno. These are just observations...they aren't necessarily the people WE are hanging out with, okay?! Anyway, we are taking our Wii if that tells you anything about what I'll probably be doing. So, just in case you didn't see me commenting around or anything...(because I am quite sure I won't be able to blog)I don't want you to think I hadn't been exercising or anything...because oh, I have been, every day! It will just be because I am at .........the lake. (In my most pitiful voice and slumped shoulders)

Hope everyone has a GREAT weekend!

Faith, Trust, and a little Pixie Dust

2008-06-26T15:46:00.004-05:00

It's going to take more than faith, trust and pixie dust to get this Peter Pan to use the big potty :( GROWWLLLL! Everyone...please say a prayer for me as I begin the endeavor (on Monday) to potty train this bull headed boy of mine! (This picture was taken two weeks ago when I was all set to go...too bad he wasn't!) He likes the thought of wearing his Thomas or Buzz underwear OVER his diaper! Big sigh...I'm sooo dreading this. Next week is the first week we don't have anything planned and I'm going to stay firmly planted at home and make him go every 5 minutes. When Connor and Brian have tried to "show" him what to do...he just looks at them and says, "Good job, Daddy!" Or, "Good job, Connor!" I'm so tired of buying diapers! I'll keep you all updated! If anyone has any great advice...PLEASE pass it along!

ON THE SIDE:

If Jennifer P. and The Nester are reading...don't look that my carpet pad is extending out past the rug! Or that the couch legs are not actually touching the rug...I know it should have a least one leg touching the rug...and it usually does, but I think I had already moved the couch back in place AT LEAST 5 times that day! (Wasn't thinking I was actually going to POST this picture for all designers to see!) Oh well, just keepin' it real!

The Omniplex...or as Connor would call it The OmniFlex!

2008-06-25T21:02:00.010-05:00

Last Friday, we had promised Connor we would take him to the Omniplex. (For those of you who aren't from OK...it's a pretty cool science museum kinda thing.) We passed by it every day on our way to and from Zoo Camp. Sooo, as it turns out, we were major-league engrossed in the new house building thing...making all kinds of major decisions that Friday and did NOT get to make it :( I know, we are sooo bad! But, we do hold true to promises made to little boys and we got up EARLY Saturday to beat the masses and spent much of the day there. It is a pretty cool place...I took the boys there last year and was really impressed. I probably hadn't been since I was in 5th grade and can remember holding hands with Greg Snow in the dark Omnidome! WHY do we remember things like that??? Anyway, Brian said he hadn't been there in probably 20 years either! (He went with his girlfriend, Amy when they were in dental school. The reason I bring this up, is because, just think...if they'd gotten married...her name would've been Amy Amy! Tee hee! He said they always joked she could be called Amy squared!) Anyway, this is turning out to be a twister of a story...sorry for the rambling! All of that to say, we had a great time! I have posted a ton of pictures. I wish I could do all that fancy writing on pictures but I can't...so you'll just have to figure it out on your own, sorry! Some day, I will learn! For those of you who are following my promise to not comment or read blogs until I have exercised, well, I'm doing REALLY well! I've worked out every day before 12:00! Go me! I can sit and type now, not feeling guilty that I should be exercising and THAT is a great feeling :) Welp, hope you enjoy ALLLL these pics!

Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake

2008-06-23T22:31:00.003-05:00

I'm gonna start off by saying...OH MY GOSH!!! This is soooo good and soooo not a part of my "Clean Eating" diet :( But...it's okay, right?!
This recipe is from one of my dearest friends, Tracey and I guess we all have her to thank for our extra poundage we'll put on, but like I said, oh well!
I made this a couple of weeks ago when we had some family in town. My husband's exact words were..."Well, this isn't any good or anything!" With this look on his face liked he'd just won the lottery or something great! I even think his eyes might've rolled back into his head a little bit! Anyway, enough of the details, it's really good...I hope you try it!

1- 18.25 oz. package of Lemon Cake Mix
1- 3.4 oz. package of vanilla instant pudding mix
1/4 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1- 8 oz. package of cream cheese, softened (I used the 1/3 less fat kind)
3/4 cup canola oil (I've also tried using unsweetened applesauce and turned out great too)
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
1 cup confectioner's sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a 10 Bundt pan.
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, pudding mix, and sugar. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, cream cheese, oil, vanilla and water. Beat on low speed until blended. Scrape bowl and beat on medium speed for 4 minutes. Stir in the blueberries by hand. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake in 350 degree oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes and then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely. Mix the confectioner's sugar and lemon juice and drizzle over the cooled cake.
A FEW LITTLE TIPS:
ONLY add 1 1/2 cup blueberries...don't think adding more will be better...it's not...I've tried it...just don't do it! The other thing is to make sure you let it sit in the pan for AT LEAST 15 minutes (maybe a little longer...again, trust me, if you get impatient...half of the cake will be left in the pan :(

I can't wait to hear what everyone thinks! I'd show you pictures of the one I made today...but my camera is out in the golf cart and I'm too lazy to go get it :) Just trust me...it's so yummy! And on that note...I may just have to go and have a little sliver before heading to bed! Hey, I'll work it off tomorrow!

CONNOR RIDES ON!!!!!

2008-06-19T10:22:00.010-05:00

Well, of course I'm behind on posting this...but CONNOR LEARNED TO RIDE HIS BIKE WITHOUT TRAINING WHEELS a couple of weekends ago!!!! Very exciting stuff don't cha know??? This is a big deal, as I'm sure it is in every household. Here's why it is at our's:

For those of you who know (and love!) Connor...he can get frustrated VERY easily (like someone else I know, ahem!) when he doesn't pick up on something on THE FIRST TRY! (That would be ME I was ahemming about!) Sooo, since he and I but heads on just about everything these days, I thought it best to stay out of the way and just let Daddy take care of it! And Daddy did JUST that! I couldn't believe it! Connor listened very carefully...Brian held on to the back maybe twice and then he was off! I mean, the pride! Here are some pictures of the glorious day! (The last one was Jake needing a little love from Daddy too...so sweet!)

The Dreaded Post!

2008-06-17T10:42:00.003-05:00

Okay, so I've dreaded writing this post for a while now. I have a very bad little habit right now...I'm very addicted to....blogging! (Were you REALLY worried I was gonna say cigarettes or alcohol or something! I wish I were! I think it might be easier to quit! You know I'm kidding!) I know, I know, you all will say you do too...or at least I hope you will! It's not like I totally ignore my family or anything, but literally, I could spend hours upon hours just reading. Is that soooo ridiculous! I guess it's because I just love knowing that sooo many people out there go through the same "mom" issues I go through and that is very comforting. BUT, I feel like the time I spend "bloggin", I could be menu planning and most of allllll...the dreaded EXERCISING! Because when I have a menu planned and I have exercised, my day goes sooo much better and I feel much better about MYSELF! So, the sad part about this is: now that I've blogged about, I have to commit to it! I'm generally that kind of a person. I need some accountability I guess! By YOU! My faithful bloggy friends! So, I'm committing to myself, that I can't check or comment on blogs until I've exercised for the day! ICK! What am I thinking! Is there a Bloggers Anonymous I could just go to now! I am going to let myself check some blogs that supply me with menus because that's a lot of help! So, I guess what I'm saying is, if you don't see me around commenting as much, it's because I'm just sitting at the computer staring wishing I could blog and NOT exercising! If you are interested in my ridiculous challenge, let me know! (But don't expect a comment until I've exercised!) (Which, by the way, I have already done today...YIPPEE!!) I hope everyone understands, I'm not snubbing anyone, I just need to figure out some Summer schedule that involves other things than blogging! Okay, off to get a menu planned :) have a great day everyone!

IDHTBPTBB!!!!!

2008-06-16T16:23:00.007-05:00

So, The Nester is wanting to see that everyone's lives are not as perfect as our photos appear...she calls it IDHTBPTBB--It Doesn't Have To Be Perfect To Be Beautiful! Don't you love it! I struggle with wanting everything to be perfect...but then, what fun is it for little boys to play legos or trains or cars when Mommy is picking them up before they are done playing??? Not very :( Anyway, I probably won't be able to put her fancy blinking button on my blog to show I'm playing...but I'm going to show you a few pics of where my littlest LOVES to play with his trains! On the window seat in our kitchen---NOT the train table we spent oodles on...the window seat! Go figure! Notice the Peter Pan dress up he is sporting today! (Hey...he's all boy and it's not like he's wearing tights to match, it's okay right? He's only 3!!)Also...Buzz Lightyear is zapping all the trains from the Island of Sodor! Buzz has his work cut out for him, cause this kid has A LOT of them :) Can't wait to read about everyone else's perfectly or imperfectly beautiful lives!

LOSER MOM!

2008-06-06T22:13:00.002-05:00

So, I've been meaning to post about this for 2 weeks now and am just getting around to it :(

Let me just set the scene...so I don't look like SUCH a loser!

We were visiting Brian's sister and brother-in-law, who live in AZ, a couple of weeks ago. Connor was going to miss a few days of his last week of school...c'mon, he's only a kindergartener, it's fine! So, we made sure though, that we would be home for his little graduation ceremony that I was CERTAIN was at 10:30 on Thursday. Welp, let me tell you how it went down:

We arrive home at 2:30 a.m. Thursday morning. Made sure we were up and out the door for Connor's school at 9:00. Kiss, Kiss, make good decisions, all that normal routine and said we'd see him @ 10:30! Okay, so run back home to finish getting ready and my Mom calls to see if we could dog sit for a specific date. Soooo, I pull up my calendar to see if it's all clear and first thing that pops up...CONNOR'S GRADUATION...9:30...Yes, people, this was approx 10:00 at this point. We literally throw Jake into his carseat...I'm hobbling as fast as I can because my big toe was as close to being broken as you can get and all nice and purple too! All the way (maybe 7 minutes), I'm saying to Brian, "I can't believe this!" As we are pulling into the parking lot, tons of cars LEAVING! Brian stops and I run inside and yes, it's over. We totally missed his little Kindergarten graduation. He was standing kind of by himself eating a little post graduation cookie :( I ran over and said, "Oh buddy, I'm soooo sorry, Mommy thought it was at 10:30 NOT 9:30!" He says to me, "Oh Mommy, it's fine, we still had fun anyway!" Well, I'm not sure if that made it better or worse?? Glad he wasn't crying because NO ONE was there for HIM, but sad that he didn't really even miss us?? I'm attributing to him just being tired. Anyway, so Brian just says, "Just toss your hat up in the air and we'll take a picture!" That picture didn't turn out so great :( But, I did love the one posted above! His sweet kindergarten teacher did make a great DVD for everyone and at least we have that :) But, wouldn't you just feel awful? I'm really, usually a very with-it, punctual person! Don't think terribly of me...hey, it was also a 2 hr time difference we were working on! Still, Loser Mom!

BUZZ LIGHTYYEAR---TO THE RESCUE!!!!

2008-06-04T18:47:00.003-05:00

So, guess who accompanied us to the bookstore today?? One guess, yep.-----BUZZ LIGHTYEAR OF STAR COMMAND! Some days, you just choose your battles. Letting Jake wear this costume made of plastic (or whatever material that squeaky stuff is)...in 90+degree weather here...well, need I say more. I just wasn't up for trying to explain to a newly three year old why that wasn't appropriate, so off we went to the bookstore. (Where, I might add...EVERYONE was cracking up and he was given many salutes...which he loved!) It is almost 7:00 and he is still sporting it! I'm scared he might want to sleep in it as well :( Now THAT battle---he may not win! Sleep well my friends--for our galaxy is well protected tonight!

LEGO LAND!!!!!!!!

2008-06-02T18:04:00.003-05:00

Have you every wondered what 23 pounds of Legos looked like...allllll dumped out on your living room floor??? Well, drumroll please...this is it!

Connor turned 6 on Saturday! Brian had been bidding on a lot of Legos and obviously won! It's great and all, but within this mess...there is a Harry Potter mansion, a soccer field, a pirate ship with pirates and other kits. Yikes! And out of all of this...Brian was able to put almost all the Harry Potter mansion together in less than 24 hours! Way to go Hubby! Now that I'm recovering from the hyperventilation of, "oh my gosh, how do we even START to organize this mess," we decided that we'd just toss them all into a big long under the bed box! (I got outvoted on having tubs for all the different colors :( Because I guess I'm a girl and didn't realize that you'd want ALL the different colors out to play with when you are building and that inevitably they would all make into one box anyway?? ) Ahh well, he loves them and that's all that really matters!

RETIREMENT=INCREDIBLE PIZZA??

2008-05-14T16:20:00.005-05:00

(This picture was from May of 2006 when Connor was in Miss Myrlane's class! Thanks Brian for being soo organized with our pics!)

So, I thought this was funny. I'd better post about it before I forget it.
One of Connor's former preschool teachers is retiring this year...boohoo. I'm very sad, but happy for her. Sad that Jake won't get to "experience" Miss Myrlane but Miss Brenda will be oh so great too! Anyway, today, as we were getting ready for school, I said, "Connor, Miss Myrlane is retiring today!" Connor says, "What does retiring mean?" I say, "Well, it means she's gonna get to do whatever she wants to do whenever she wants to do it!" "Doesn't that sound great!" Connor says, "Does that mean she gets to go to Incredible Pizza every day?!" I say, "Well, I guess if she wants to!" Connor says, "WOW, when do I retire?" Me, "A Lonnnng time!"

So, if there were any questions as to what Connor would love to do everyday, they are now answered!
See you at Incredible Pizza Miss Myrlane! Happy Retirement to YOU!

LOSER!

2008-05-13T22:41:00.003-05:00

Okay, so, I uploaded the wrong picture on my last post...it was SUPPOSED to be the one of my clippies. So, here it...I think! I tell ya, you don't know anyone who is WORSE on a computer!

Bye-Bye, Friend

2008-05-13T22:25:00.004-05:00

If I was really creative, I'd write a poem or something cute...but I'm not and I'm tired. So, I just wanted to say a quick little thank you to my good old standby of a clippie. She's been there for me on MANY a bad hair day. I decided recently I needed a "style"...instead of a clippie to hold my overgrown bangs back and a ponytail. I don't want to shortchange my collection of hats either. They have done their fair share of covering up as well. But, the clippie was there every day for me :) I will resort to her on days of dire need, but for this brief time, I'm tucking her into my drawer safely to be brought out on those days when I just need a friend. Everyone who knows me well knows how I am so attached to my clippies ...AKA, bobby pin but I do sometimes put my little blingy one in to add a little spice to my life! So, goodbye for now my friend...until I just can't stand these bangs in my eyes any longer! I'm going to try and post a picture of my favorite clippies and my new do...bare with me, you all know this is a real challenge since I haven't posted pics in a while. It's like learning to do it allllll over again :( Yes, I am that sad on the computer! Okay, here goes! I am loving my new style though! Now that I am looking at this photo...the right side needs to be snipped a little bit...better call my hairdresser tomorrow!

This Kid!

2008-05-12T14:09:00.002-05:00

Oh the things these kids say these days! It's just a sign of the times I guess...you sure wouldn't have heard me saying this to my Mom...let me explain:
We needed to run a few errands and the boys were playing outside. Sooo, already I am interrupting in a major way! So, I nicely say, "Hey, Connor...we gotta go look for a little table to put on the front porch, ok, buddy?" Here's the response I got. Hold on, are you ready for this... "AHHH Mommy! Can't you just go online?"
Seriously, it's kinda sad. Either that or I spend waaayyy too much time buying things online! Probably a little of both!

Available at Target Stores

2008-05-06T16:28:00.005-05:00

So, I'm downstairs getting stuff ready for dinner and hear this from upstairs: "Hey, Mommy...can we get a splat ball?? " (sp) I walk to the bottom of the stairs so I can possibly hear a little better over the mixer and other talking from Jake. Connor sooo doesn't understand that I do not have The Bionic Woman's hearing! Anyway, I say, "What was that you said??" He says, "you know, it's a ball that you can splat on paper and stuff and it's available at Target stores!" Thank you Target for making sure that my almost 6 yr old knows exactly where to go. Now I have to try to explain to a salesperson WHAT in the heck HE saw on TV. (In case you were thinkin' I was gonna run right out and buy it...don't be mistaken. His birthday is at the end of the month though...and he would love it if he happened to get one.) Hope I can find it! If I can't, I'm sure I can count on more commercials between now and then!

The Invisible Woman

2008-04-29T09:27:00.002-05:00

This is an excerpt from The Invisible Woman by Nicole Johnson. Jake's sweet preschool teacher gave it to us for a little Spring Mother's Day Program. I'm so going to check out the book!

"It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and asks to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?' Obviously not; no one can see I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible. The Invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you tie this? Can you open this?
Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30 please.'
I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude-but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going, she's going, she's gone.
One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my out-of-style- dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a hair clip and I was afraid I could actually smell peanut butter in it. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this. It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe. I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: 'To Charlotte, with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees'
In the days ahead I would read--no, devour--the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work: No one can say who built the great cathedrals---we have no record of their names. These builders gave the whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything. A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No will will ever see it. 'And the workman replied,
Because God sees.'

Wow! I don't feel quite as invisible as she did....Brian is sooo good to appreciate things I do around the house and with the boys, but some days, you do forget how to just be yourself and not a mom. I know, even though I do feel invisible at times, the "sacrifices" I'm making today for the boys will hopefully make them into "great cathedrals"! If only I could just remember to always feel blessed that I am able to stay at home. I think I take that for granted, a lot! Well, gotta run, didn't mean to turn this into a homily! Hope everyone has a great day building those little cathedrals!

I'M BACK!!!!

2008-04-24T10:32:00.003-05:00

Okay, I know everyone has been on pins and needles since I "came" out of my lurking closet...ha ha! Anyway, I'm dying to blog but my day MUST consist of other duties. I will post more later but just in case you needed your "Staci" fix...I thought I'd let ya know we are back and had a great time! I do want to say, I'm feeling very grateful and blessed today. Mainly because I am able to stay at home and try to conquer this insurmountable pile of laundry from being gone for only 5 days! I'm so thankful for Brian working so hard so I don't have to rush off this morning to work and be stressed out that there is laundry that needs to be done and stuff like that. I'm just that way, laugh if you must, wish I could change it, but I can't. I generally have laundry done the same day I get home from a trip, but last night was not the case. We were supposed to arrive home at 6:00 p.m. but instead, we arrived home around 8 :00. Then, a drive down to Norman to pick up the boys...who had a GREAT time at Mimi's I might add! Thanks Mom, if you are reading. Anyway, very tired today after all that and very thankful I can be at home doing laundry and getting caught up on all the love. So, Brian, if you are reading, thanks for all your hard work for your family. We love you soooo much! Gosh, this is turning into a sappy thank you post. Really, all I wanted to say was, hey...I'm home (if anyone cares!), I had Monica (from Friends) hair while I was in Cancun (see, if I was a great blogger, I'd be able to link you to that particular episode, but remember people, I'm not, so you'll have to find it yourself!), and hopefully, I'll have pictures up very soon! I know you can't wait to hear all about me getting seasick on our Katamaran day and things like that :) So, can't wait to get caught up with everyone! Can't wait to hear how the BlogHer conference was!!! Until later....

COMING OUT PARTY!

2008-04-17T21:15:00.001-05:00

Okay, so two posts in one day! I am BIG time. As previously posted, http://nestingplacenc.blogspot.com/The Nester flew by my blog earlier and left a sweet little message. Then, her just as sweet sister http://emmafree.blogspot.com/(Chatting at the Sky) left a little comment too! Anyway, I think I have mustered (sp?) (At least I DO know it's not spelled mustard, as in Classic Yellow stuff!) up enough confidence to comment now and not just lurk on "the popular" sites! I'm coming out...TODAY! Whew hoo!!! Next blog on the list ...http://www.musingsofahousewife.typepad.com/ JoLynn!!! YAHOO, I did it---no help from Brian! Okay, so here I go to leave my first comment with her. She's so smart and all. From grammar to what shoe you should wear with an outfit. Okay, my hands are getting all sweaty again. I can do it, here I go!
Oh yea, but before I go...little story. Well, you know me, nothing is ever little or short!
Tomorrow is Connor's kindergarten graduation picture day. They want them to wear ties and a nice shirt. He's never worn a tie, so I'm thinkin' this ought to be interesting. So, I'm running all over creation trying to find the cutest tie (and being selfless...thinking about how I really need to be buying some things for MY trip!). I end up finding this really cute tie at Kohl's for about $7.50!!!! Only it's a clip! Brian despises clips! But, it will do the job. Needless to say, Connor has worn this tie all the live long day while riding his bike, sidewalk chalking, and yes, eating dinner at Taco Bell----WITH A T-SHIRT on! I have a picture to prove it!
Okay, so I'm off to comment! It's been a GREAT day!

BIG DAY!!!

2008-04-17T15:23:00.000-05:00

Okay ya'll...THE NESTER left a comment on my blog!!! I am so excited! I am not worthy! If you haven't checked her out...you REALLY must, right now! She's under My Fav's under "The Nesting Place". I guess, I have to come out of lurkdem. Is that even a word? If it is, I'm sure I didn't spell it correctly! Anyway, I just had to let everyone know...my day is complete...and it's only 3:30!

Also, Brian and I are going to Playa del something in Mexico on Saturday! YEAH! I am sooo excited! So, hopefully I'll have some fun pictures to post next week! I don't know what I'm going to do...not being able to lurk around for 5 days! I'm sure I'll find SOMETHING...or better yet, NOTHING!

Personal Storm Tracker!

2008-04-09T18:17:00.000-05:00

Just a little shout out to my friend and personal storm tracker, Shelly! Thanks for keeping me ahead of the fire, in this case! She knows I wouldn't be watching the local news at this hour because, hello, Dora is on Noggin! So, she heard "Timbuktu" on the news and knew it had to be close to me and sent out her big alert! Thanks Shelly! I know it's safe to say YOU don't have a weather woody! Hope you have a fantastic trip to The Bahamas! Start the Jergens natural glow right now!

SUPER MARIO GALLLLLLAXY!!!

2008-04-06T10:38:00.000-05:00

(This pic was from December!)

So, Brian has been out of town since Thursday...we've muddled through without Daddy on a weekend :( I'm catching up on some blogging while the boys are playing Super Mario Galaxy. I know, don't look at the time...it's 10:30 am and we aren't at church and they are playing their Wii. Connor actually plays...REALLY well, Jake, not so much, or at least we thought not so much. Usually we just give him a controller and he thinks he's helping Connor out with Mario. So, here's the funny thing I hear 2 seconds ago...

Connor: "Wow, Jake, do that again!"

Jake: "OK Connor"

Connor: "Mommy, this kid is gooood!"

I don't know whether to be ashamed or proud?? that my just turned 3 yr old can play Super Mario Galaxy!

DISASTER!!

2008-04-02T21:27:00.000-05:00

So, here's how my Monday started:

Walking upstairs to wake the boys up...head down, look up to turn the light on and Connor is standing at the top of the stairs. Scares the *@!!&*^* out of me! I say, "well, good morning buddy, didn't hear you up here all getting ready, and by the way, you are all dressed and ready for school, huh?" "Yep, Mommy, I looked out the window and it's a 2 shirt day." (OKAY, IN HIS DEFENSE, IT DID LOOK REALLY COLD, BUT IT WAS ACTUALLY CRAZY, HUMID AND LIKE 70 DEGREES ALREADY BECAUSE OF SOME CRAZY STORMS THAT CAME THROUGH LAST NIGHT) Anyhoo, he had chosen fleece pants, a long-sleeved shirt with a hood and a t- shirt over it....at least there was camo on the side of the pants to match the camo undershirt...one black--one green! He then says, "Mommy, there's been a disaster!" I reply, "Well, what do you mean buddy?" He says, "well, come in the play room and see...(the tv is on the local news channel giving the latest update on the tornado that touched down on the west side of Edmond. Now, usually he doesn't see this stuff because I keep the tv in the play room on kid-friendly channels, BUT, Brian was watching the storms upstairs the night before and had left it on the local channel...all for our 5 yr old to start his day off with..thanks honey!) So, he goes on to say, "A tornado ripped off this family's roof last night!" I say, "Yikes, that's just terrible, now let's turn this off and take a picture of this get -up you've got on today!" "Mommy, why are you taking a picture of me?" "Because you are so dang cute!"

I knew I needed a picture of this to remind me why I still pick his clothes out! So, without further ado, sp? Here is the picture of Connor's choice of clothes for the day:

TAGGED!!!!

2008-04-02T21:06:00.000-05:00

I'm getting all nervous and sweaty! I was tagged by Lisa! My very first tag ever!! I'm gonna try my very best, unfortunately, I don't have people to tag because I'm a major lurker and have only commented on a few blogs :(
But, here goes:
1) I was married to my Sweet Husband 10 years ago in SCOTLAND!! In a castle too!!
2) I am a dental hygienist...just haven't done it since I had kiddoes.
3) We have 2,000 fish as pets...not in our house, but in our pond!
4) I am a definite rule follower...yet, I have trouble with directions??
5) I have a sick fascination with sharks...I love Shark Week on Discovery!
6) My hair is curly but I straighten the heck out of it!
7) I LOVE MY OKLAHOMA SOONERS!!!! (and really any college football!)

So, not so interesting, but I'm a little tired tonight :)
Thanks Lisa! Loved YOUR list! Wish I could figure out how to make my blog all cute and musical like yours!!

Help, I'm Being Ambushed--by Bunnies!

2008-03-09T21:09:00.000-05:00

So, my Mom bought the boys this little game...where you are supposed to squish down these little suction cup-like bunnies and eggs and catch them in these little baskets. So cute right? Well, maybe if my boys were girls...they would play quietly catching bunnies and eggs. On the contrary, my boys are squishing them down and creating "land mines"! Here's what I heard while getting ready for Church this morning:

Two sets of pitter pattering of little feet, then heeeee heeeee, whispers of shhhhh, Jake!
10 seconds later...mmmmpop (that's the best I could describe a suction cup release sound :)
2 seconds later....heee heeee

Of course, this went on for waaayy too long, but each time they thought they were secretly ambushing me, I'd scream out like it scared me!

It's truly amazing to me how children can do something over and over and really think they are being quiet and that would really scare me time after time???? Oh the joys of raising two boys !!!!! :) :) :)

It's Snowing---in my house

2008-02-28T12:45:00.000-06:00

Okay, so, I've decided that I'm not good at updating my own blog but LOVVVVE just looking--lurking at others! (If I was really good on the computer I'd know how to put a line through lurk, but I'm a computer dummy!) There are soo many creative and inspiring people out there! Again, if I was really good, I could link you to these incredible blog sites, but I don't know how to do that either!) Anyway, this is a little how my afternoon has gone and it's only 12:47 at the time of this post.
11:25- Pick up Connor from Kindergarten
11:45-Fixin' up some lunch (same-O, same-O everyday of this life with a 2 and 5 yr old)
12:00 -They have whoofed down their food and on to the festivities--which I'm sure will involve getting into some kind of trouble!
12:15- Sure 'nough, Connor has been running around trying to swat Jake with a diaper (it's a clean one thankfully--one I meant to put on him, oh, maybe an hour ago before picking up Connor from K! Ought to be NICE and wet now!)
OKAY, so we all know--or maybe we don't- what this means, right? There are little micro-sticky, gel beads from the diaper ALLL over my house! Uggghhh! (I am saying a prayer once again that it was a CLEAN diaper!) So, I give the big "UGGGHHH" yell loud enough they know I've discovered the first festivity of which they are in trouble for! I hear, "RUN, Jake, I think we are in trouuuubble." (I did make him come down and pick up the big fluffy pieces) So now, I've added to my list of things to do today...vacuum! Which needed to be done really. It's just, we are going on a little trip to Great Wolf Lodge tomorrow and I am trying to get laundry done, pack, get in a work out, and make dinner, just to name a few! But I will gladly choose vacuuming over working out, so here I go off to shovel the snow beads! My saving grace is that I have a sitter coming tonight (Brian has a meeting) because I have BUNCO! YEAH! Gotta run! Hope everyone has a great rest of the day!
What's funny is...as I saw and heard this scene playing out, I thought to myself, "well, at least I have something to blog about!" Like anyone reads my blog?? (And again, if I were a Good Blogger, I would've taken pictures and posted them!)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHELLY CLINE

2008-02-18T17:57:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to wish my friend Shelly a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY today!! She's probably not checking blogs just yet because she getting settled in from returning home from VietNam with her new baby boy! But, just in case she is keeping up on other's blog...hope you have a happy day girl! (And UPDATE YOUR BLOG of that sweet face---Kaden of course!) I know, I'm one to talk about updating blogs :(

Hocopontas??

2008-02-08T21:42:00.000-06:00

So, last night at the dinner table it went a little something like this:

I let the boys use some Disney glasses to drink milk from and of course you know two boys are going to compete about something!?
Jake: "I be Mickey Mouse!"
Connor: "No, I'm Mickey Mouse!"
The battle continues for oh, what seemed too long! Finally Connor says, "Jake, your Hocopontas!"

Jake: "No, I'm Mickey!"
Mommy: "Who is Hocopontas?"
Connor: "You know, the girl who talks to the wind and animals!"
Mommy: "Oh, right!" "I think you mean Pocohontas!"
Connor: "yea, whatever"
The battle continued on and I just kept eating (of course, Brian was at a meeting ;( ) it was just the easiest thing to do!

ASH WEDNESDAY

2008-02-06T10:35:00.000-06:00

So, again, to remind anyone who's reading...going to use this as a journal, so, enjoy if you can, but is more for me more than anything! I find if I write things down (I am a HUGE list person) I tend to do it. I like seeing the things crossed and gives me great satisfaction!
So, my topic today to think about is Ash Wednesday. Since we are Catholic, I'm trying to find some meaningful things to do so the boys will start to understand the importance of this time of year...as well as all through the year, but especially this time of year. Anyway, here are some things on the list!
Some of Staci's Things She's Going to Give Up or Add During Lent:
-I've not been the best at reading The Bible on a daily basis in a while, so I am going to read a chapter in Proverbs every day.
-Stay focused on whatever my task is at hand and finish it!!!
-Try not to raise my voice (at Child #1 mostly ; ) as much!
-Be more patient (ditto with the child #)
-Read with Connor from Miss Laura's plan every day!
-Attend Stations of the Cross every Friday during Lent
-No radio on for me in the car...need to pray or think and be grateful for things instead of listening to The Sports Animal!

For the Family:

-Pray our little prayer every morning before we go to school
-Encourage Connor on a daily basis to think of something (like not eating cookies today, etc..) he can give up or something special he could do each day for a family member of his choice.
-Follow Our Lenten Journey Path (a calendar of sorts that leads up to Easter Sunday)
-Make crown of thorns (dough and toothpicks) and remind him he gets to take a thorn out for every good deed I find him doing, ex...having a nice voice, sharing, etc...

Gosh, sounds like a lot...these next 40 days I'm really focusing on just being better and positive things.

I hope you all have a Blessed Ash Wednesday!

Mixed Up!

2008-01-29T19:45:00.000-06:00

So, again, just writing down things before I forget!

While Connor and Daddy are having a "boys night out", it's just Jake and me in for the evening. So I say, "Jake, ready for your yogurt, buddy?" His reply is, "Nope, no shank you alligador!" (Instead of See you later alligator!) I cracked up...I guess he's getting his little sayings a little mixed up! So cute though.

Controller of the House

2008-01-29T16:02:00.000-06:00

So, long time no blog????!!! Yea, yea,yea, I'll give the specifics on another post but for now I'm going to write what is on my mind.
I think I 'm going to use this blog as kind of a journal of sorts...so, if at times it may seem personal or whatever...just skip over and read what you wish! But if I don't start writing things down, I'll forget and then there will be no memories of that particular moment...which is why I'm blogging. Here's how it went down:

Connor: "Can I have a PB sandwich please?" (It's 3:30...but he did
say please!)
Mommy: "I guess so...I mutter to myself, at least it's not candy he's
he's asking for!"
Connor: "Can I eat in on the living room floor so I can watch American
Dragon?"
Mommy: "Ughhh, I guess so." Already regretting my decision!
10-15 minutes elapse....Mom walks into the LR to the smell of a poopy
diaper and crumbs everywhere....
Mommy: "Connor, go get the hand vacuum and clean up your crumbs
please, this is why Mommy should've made you sit at the
table!"
Connor: "well, I didn't do it on purpose, Controller of the House!"
Mommy: "puzzled look and then crack up laughing, "What does THAT
mean?"
Connor: "Well, you are!" Laughing hysterically and happy with
himself for 1) making me laugh and 2) not being in toooo
much trouble!
10 seconds later...music to my ears, the ever-ready hand vac that I
couldn't live without! Man, do I have them trained or what?! Someone's gotta be in control of 2 little guys and 1 big one! So, I dub myself Controller of the House and will wear the crown with pride!

2008-01-08T21:14:00.001-06:00

Soooo, this Thursday I am leaving to go with some friends to do a little "scrappin". There will be 4 of us going--should be very fun...love them all dearly but will miss Tracey and Shelly as they will not be able to make the trip. This is only my second year to do this. Made a lot of progress my first year but I am not crafty so this comes very hard for me! Soooo, generally speaking, I'm just gonna load up on great candies, tons of magazines and may not even get one page done but I will have a lot of fun trying! I keep telling Brian I'm not going to leave a list or a schedule for the weekend...but man, do you KNOW how hard that's gonna be???!! They will party hard all weekend, non-stop Wii I'm sure, trash the house, probably live on poptarts (actually, Brian will make sure they eat good) ...but you know what, they will have so much fun without "The Anal Organizer" around and by the time I get home, the house will be "relatively" spotless, floors waxed and Wii remote batteries recharged ready for Mom to take on another week! I'll keep you updated!

Just a Thought

2008-01-07T22:13:00.000-06:00

Okay, so before I forget this cute little moment, I at least have to type it in our blog!
So, today, I was putting away our front door Christmas decor...yes, I have no excuses now, even The Epiphany is over! Anyway, the boys and I were outside, it was actually a pretty nice day and not too windy and I was kinda running in and out...the boys playing...rather nicely! So, here's the conversation with Connor and Mommy:

Mommy: "Connor, I'm going to run inside really fast and take this all the way upstairs and I'll be RIGHT back out okay? I need for you to keep your biggest and best eye on Jake okay?" (I mean, our gate was closed, where can an almost 3 and 5 1/2 yr old guy on 30 acres????)
Connor: "Okay Mommy!" Running off...then instantly turning back around saying, "which eye IS that?"
Mommy: With an absoluteness in my voice: "Definitely the right one!"
Connor: "Got it!"

Gotta love that kid! And yes, I did get all the decor down and no kids wandering down to the pond unsupervised! Yea me!

Sadness is setting in!

2008-01-02T22:08:00.000-06:00

Okay, so I've been promising to post some new stuff but right now I am too @&!*** upset to do anything! My Sooners are sucking wind right now and I just can't do anything! Sorry, maybe tomorrow. I may still be mourning though...don't count on anything! I will send out a very quick "Happy Who Near!" (More on that in another post---hopefully with a video if I can figure it out!) BOOMER SOONER!!!!!!!!!

2007-12-17T21:01:00.001-06:00

Hey there Uncle Scott! If you are checking the blog again...please note the correction! (For all the rest of you, I'm too embarrassed to even say which word was a typo!) Thanks again!

Housekeepers!

2007-12-17T14:33:00.000-06:00

Can I just say, for the thousandth time...housekeepers are the greatest thing in the world! For those of you who are teetering with the idea, it's one of the best decisions I've ever made. No, things may not be AS clean as I would do it myself, but at least it is getting done and I am OUT getting last minute Christmas presents taken care of! And walking in to the smell of freshly dusted and waxed floors, well, let's just say it is exhiliarating to the dental hygienist in me! Even Connor commented, "Mommy, our house smells gooood!" Yea baby! Now, just keeping it this clean until all our family comes in!??!
Melissa, thanks for checking out our blog! I tried to click on your name but it wouldn't let me do anything! Yes, the ice makes for beautiful pictures but the destruction it causes has been amazing. It's incredible really, the amount of weight that it puts on trees, wires, etc...hopefully, you will never experience it. We drove down to Norman where my Mom lives on Saturday and it literally looked like a tornado had blown through. Yep, we get those too in the Spring! I do love Oklahoma though. Where do you live? Don't you just love Adventures in Chaos??!! She's the best!
Well, off to play with the kiddoes because I don't have to clean the house!!!

2007-12-15T13:43:00.001-06:00

Don't have much time but I've been promising pics of the "ICESTORM 2007" Brian took these around the property. We actually didn't have much damage and are very fortunate. Some of our friends in the Mid-Del and Norman area weren't as lucky. I think they got it a little worse than we "Northerners" in Edmond! I also posted a picture of the golf cart Santa brought back in '05 b/c I promised some people from my favorite blog in the world...Adventures in Chaos...I would! For anyone who doesn't know, it's Kristin van Ogtrop's blog (editor from Real Simple) and it's the highlight of my day to read! I am rambling, gotta run, Brian's staff party is tonight and we still have to take the boys down to my Mom's! Need to update lots of things from the week---maybe tomorrow!

SICKNESS

2007-12-07T20:32:00.000-06:00

Okay, so, our entire family has a little virus or something?? Stuffy noses, scratchy throats kinda thing. I'm the worst sick person in the world! Maybe because I'm never sick...I don't know, but I'm a whimp! Just to prove how old I let medication get ( which I know is not good for you ) ...Brian did find some Geltabs for me (because I will NOT drink anything!) they expired in 10/97. I think they are working though because I took them about 15 minutes ago and can hold my head up by myself!

Enough about sickness...many people MUCH worse off than I...so I'll suck it up. The main reason I wanted to start this blog was so that I would write things down! Important things that I should be writing in journal but am lousy at. There's something I like about typing anyway. It makes me feel like I haven't forgotten something since becoming a mom. So here are a few things I remember about the week:

1) We celebrated St. Nicholas' Day on Thursday (for all of you who AREN'T Catholic...google it...it's a great Saint.) Anyway, last night Connor and I were saying a little prayer and I can't remember exactly how it went but something like this:

Mommy: "We should say thank you to St. Nicholas who is in Heaven with Jesus for showing us how to be so kind and generous, etc..."

Connor: "Mommy, if St. Nicholas is in Heaven with Jesus how did he make it to our house last night to leave my Blendy Pens and Jake's traintracks????"

Mommy: "Hmmmm, well, I think for one day out of the year, he gets to ride his white horse down to Earth and spread kindness and generosity again?????"

Connor: "Oh, okay."

Oops on my part! But it was satisfying to him. All the questions we are just starting to be asked...wow, I think I need to start carrying a miniature dictionary in the car and purse with me at all times.

One other of my favorites this week went something like this: We've been talking a lot about miracles lately and I guess I truly have never explained exactly what a miracle is...I just assume he knows...anyway,

Driving in the car home from school...

Connor: "Mommy, WHAT exactly is a miracle any way?"

Mommy: "Well, it's something so wonderful and extraordinary that you would think would never be able to happen." (It's the best I could do spur of the moment without my dictionary!)

Connor: "Kinda like me learning to ride a bike without training wheels?"

Mommy: "Well, yea, I guess??"

Kids are so funny. Frustrating at times but their minds are ALWAYS working.

Another favorite of mine this week is Jake will run to you and say, "Best Friend Mommy!" and give a great big hug. He goes down our whole family and never tires of it.

Well, I'm off to bed...yes, it's 8:51 on a Friday night and my entire family is already asleep and has been for about 45 minutes. So, I'm hoping this expired Gel Tab does it's work.

I'm going to try and post a favorite pic ---because I can!

Good night