Christmas Challenge

Today is my birthday! And, today is also my 9th anniversary!

I don't know if I'm more impressed with being 35, or if I am more impressed with being married for 9 years.

I don't feel that old, I mean, cause let's face it I am that old now.

Randy said that being married 9 years doesn't feel like a long time to him... he's waiting for a decade to feel like an old married man. I think being married for 9 years is awesome. We're beating the odds and that feels great!

Last night, we celebrated my birthday, because tonight is ballet. The girls got me not one, but TWO Yankee candles for my birthday. Cinnamon and Cranberry! YUM! We're celebrating our anniversary this weekend with a date night out.

Christmas Challenge

On Sunday, the girls and I went to the local shopping mall and did a little bit of Christmas shopping. My goal was to find something for my 6 year old niece.

So, off we go to "Justice, Just for Girls". I have to admit, I love this store. It is eye candy for girls... and hey! I'm a girl, too. The trouble is, the prices are just way to high. Like seriously...high.

But, I don't know what it is about that store... it's fun music, the bubbly atmosphere, the beautiful clothes and fun accessories or WHAT?! but I was possessed to buy an outfit for my niece that was MORE expensive than what I pay for my own clothes.

As I'm reaching in my purse to pay for the items, I don't even flinch when I hand her my credit card. I sign off, gather the girls and we leave. It was not until we were outside did I snap to my senses and realize, "OH MY GOODNESS!" did I just pay $50.00 for a shirt and leggings? (I threw in the dollar amount, because I knew you were dying to know!)

I immediately decided that because I do not spend that much money on our clothes, I was not going to spend that much money on other people's clothing. So, the plan was to return the items on Monday (or Tuesday... maybe Wednesday). I just didn't want to rush in there and return them immediately, like the remorseful buyer I was.

About 30 minutes later, Randy joined us at the mall. I told him about the experience in the store and he was like, "So, why don't you take it back now?"

I said, "What? Not right now! I just left there. They will certainly remember me and snicker at me as I leave. No. I'll take it back next week."

Then (my hero) said, "Give it to me. I'll take it back."

So, Randy walked into Justice, Just for Girls, dumped the clothes and the receipt on the counter and got the refund.

We we met up again, I asked him if they said anything to him about why it was being returned and he said no. But, had they asked him, he was going to joke that he was sitting at home, when he got an email from VISA about the recent purchase and that he hauled down there to return it because it was too expensive. (That's the redneck in him.)

Christmas Challenge

I have an amazing aunt who makes the most incredible hand painted ornaments. Each year, she designs an idea, buys the wood, traces the shapes, cuts the wood with her jig saw, paints the ornaments and hands them out to each child in our extended family - which, including great-grand children is well past thirty kids.

Not to mention, she gives these hand-painted gems to friends, her grandkids' teachers and classmates, each year as well. I'd estimate to say that through out the year, she makes nearly 75-100 ornaments.

She says is therapeutic. I say... sell them on eBay. She says, no way... it's fun and it her way to extol the joy of Christmas.

So, in honor of my aunt Tonna, here are a few samples of her Christmas ornaments. (In a few more years, her ornaments will encompass my entire tree!)

This year, she is doing a manger scene. I can't wait to add it to our collection.

Christmas Challenge

I'll be honest. Not all of my posts for the bloggin' challenge will be Christmas related.

With that said, let's begin.

Elisan was invited to a birthday party for one of her soccer teammates/church friends. The party was yesterday and she had a great time.

However, the party mostly comprised of Latinos, so I felt a bit out of the loop seeing is how I don't speak Spanish. Oh, sure, I understand, "que", "aqui", "donde este", "hola", "gracias", but truly, that's about the extent of my knowledge.

Elisan on the other hand is taking Spanish lessons at school. She is not learning to speak Spanish, but is learning the basics like the colors, shapes, body parts, animals, sir names, etc. I think she is even learning a phrase or two.

So imagine my horror, when I go upstairs to check on her and she has some poor little Latino girl corned trying to speak Spanish with her. This was a three-fold problem... 1.) Because the little girl was probably three years old and didn't know what Elisan was trying to accomplish. 2.) Because Elisan did the typical speak LOUDER so they understand routine. 3.) Finally, because Elisan tends to make up her own Hispanic words and tries to 'sound' Hispanic.

I quickly rescued the little girl and told Elisan that is probably wasn't a good idea to practice her Spanish at the party. Elisan didn't quite understand, which is kind of cute... in it's own way.

Which brings me to my last point...

Kids are such unique creatures. Have you ever noticed how kids can play, socialize and interact with anyone, at anytime? I mean, Elisan only knew two other kids from the party yesterday, yet, there were about 30 kids there. But, that didn't stop her from playing with all of them...language barrier and all.

I wish I could be more like my six year old.

Today marks the first day of December. It also marks the first day of the "25 Days of Bloggin' Challenge". It's never too late to join!

I'd like to take this opportunity to introduce the crown jewel of holiday decorations in the Wagner household.

Meet Mr. Snowman.

A little back story on him. He belonged to my mother. I don't know when she received Mr. Snowman, but I know he is at least 30 years old. He was always my favorite Christmas decoration. My mom used to place him on our fireplace hearth, so I was always able to touch him and inspect him.

He's made of ceramic, hand painted by one of my aunts. He was a gift.

I remember telling my mom, as I often do, when I want to remind her that I have first dibs on something ahead of my brother, that "I want the ceramic snowman when you're... um... no longer needing him." I remember her saying, "That old thing? You can have him." And I say, "No, not until you are ready to part with him."

Apparently her attachment to Mr. Snowman was not as strong as mine, because on my next birthday (which appropriately falls in December) she gave me Mr. Snowman. I was thrilled! Finally! He was MINE!

Having taken possession of Mr. Snowman I have taken great care of him. He is not stored away with all of the Christmas stuff. He is stored on a high shelf in one of the closets. I don't take any chances with him.

However, I have a sneaking suspicion that he will not make it for another ceremoniously pass-down to the child o' mine that places first dibs on him. Call it mother's intuition, but I predict a tumbling/crashing death for him. I certainly cannot see him lasting another 30 years.

But, alas... who really knows for sure, right?

So, there he is in all of his Christmas glory. He also marks the beginning of my snowman collection that has grown exponentially over the years.

More on that later!

Christmas Challenge! Are you in?

I've got a challenge for you! The question is... are you in, or are you out?

Starting Saturday, December 1st, I will begin posting something (ANYTHING!) each day until December 25th. I'll be posting a commentary, a joke, a picture, whatever! Just something everyday until Christmas day.

So, who's in? Grab the button and post it on your blog!

It was a good day!

Getting to Know Your Friends: Christmas Edition

My real-life and cyber friend, Stormi welcomes everyone to the

"Getting to Know Your Friends: Christmas Edition"

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags?
Wrapping paper. I'm sorry, but there is nothing fun about ripping into a gift bag!

2. Real tree or artificial?
Artificial

3. When do you put up the tree(s)?
Weekend after Thanksgiving, but this year, I'll probably shoot for the first weekend in December.

4. When do you take the tree down?
The weekend after Christmas (or sooner!)

5. Do you like eggnog?
Yes, but I only drink it with my dad.

6. Favorite gift received as a child?
Honda 50 Dirt Bike. (I was in first grade... what were my parent's thinking?)

7. Do you have a nativity scene?
No, but I'd like to eventually get a really nice one.

8. Hardest person to buy for?
Randy, because he never wants anything.

9. Easiest person to buy for?
The girls

10. Mail or email Christmas cards?
Mail photo cards

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received?
No comment!

12. Favorite Christmas Movie/Show?
Charlie Brown Christmas - I love the musical score.

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas?
Christmas shopping? Oh, yeah... I better get started!

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?
Not that I know of.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?
My mom's seafood gumbo

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree?
I prefer clear, but the girls loved the colorful ones. So, coloful it is!

17. Favorite Christmas song?
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen/We Three Kings - by Bare Naked Ladies w/Sarah MacLachlan

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home?
Travel

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeers?
Only if I sing the song "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer"

20. Angel on the tree top or a star?
Neither. I use a big ol' ribbon bow

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning?
Christmas morning

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year?
The Rush!

23. Does Santa leave the gifts wrapped or unwrapped?
Small gifts - wrapped; Big gifts - unwrapped


24. Do you leave goodies for Santa on Christmas Eve?
Yes, cookies and milk of course.

I'm so proud!

A year ago, if you would have asked me to describe my best friend, Cyndi... the word "runner" would not have been an adjective I would have used. Until now.

Cyndi has been training for a marathon since August and is gearing up for the BIG one that will be held in January. However, in the meantime, she's run three races (maybe more...) and the last one was a half-marathon. People... that is a 25K race or 15.5 miles!

I'm so proud of Cyndi and what she has accomplished for herself. You go, girl!

(Look at that picture... she's actually smiling!)

Love this Show!

If you have kids, be sure to check out this great show on PBS.

It's about an adorable little girl who helps her grandfather at his shoe-repair shop. Each adventure centers around the pair of shoes. It's super cute and we love it.

The Big Pay-Off!

As a follow up to my "Customer Service?" entry, here is Randy with our new flat panel, LCD/HD television. Apparently, it pays to purchase the extended warranty. However, it took over a month, 3 service calls (that I had to be present for), a trip to the store in which Randy camped out for over an hour and a final review by a claims rep!

After all of that...

We FINALLY got store credit for the defunct television.

Customer Service?

I've had a rotten time with customer service as of late. It stinks.

Recently, I phoned the flooring company about a damaged tile. It was a Monday. The lady took my name and number and said someone would call me back. I never heard back from anyone. (I might also add, our flooring is still under warranty, so this would have been a gimme job!)

The following Monday, I called again. Stated my problem, left my name and number. Nothing.

The following Monday after that, Randy called. Not only did he get a call back, but they scheduled an appointment to come out to my house and fix the damaged tile the same week.

What gives?

One of my "jobs" as a wife is to handle all customer service related phone calls. I'll be perfectly honest. This is part of my wifely duties that I detest. Truly.

But, because Randy hates it as much as, if not more than, I do, I am relegated to making those dreaded calls. Joy.

In addition to that, I am usually the one that has to stand-by and put my plans on hold waiting for the repairman (delivery driver or whatever) to arrive within his 9 hour window, which is usually 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. And more frequently than not, they usually don't arrive until the last hour of the "window".

And, don't get me started on email. There is nothing that chaps my hide more, then sending out an email through a website and NEVER, EVER getting a reply back. Never.

I mean, if you have a place on your website that says, "Contact us for enrollment information" and you hit that magic button with your question(s), then, by all means... reply! Is it that hard?

Several weeks back, I had finally narrowed down the ballet academy selections to two studios. Both websites offered on-line enrollment. I enrolled to both. However, knowing that my enrollment form may end up in cyber-hell, I made a mental note to join the first academy that replied back to the email. Lo and behold, I get a reply email back and that is the studio we joined. I have yet to hear back from the other studio I enrolled with online. Randy says it will eventually come down to survival of the fittest. Let's only hope!

I guess all I'm complaining about boils down to this. Answer your emails, return phone calls, do what you say, say what you do and give a 2 hour window, rather than a 9 hour window of arrival. Is that so hard, people?

Thinking 'bout the holidays!

I've worked up some ideas today for Christmas gift tags and Christmas recipe cards. I plan on printing them out on 4x6 photo paper at my local photo mart. The gift tags will be pre-printed - so no messy handwriting! I added dividing lines so I can cut them in 1/4ths.

I also had a thought to scan a sample of the wrapping paper I plan to use and use the wrapping paper design for the gift tags as well. I just need to break out that clunky scanner to get started!

Here's what I've come up with so far! This digi kit was downloaded free from Shabby Princess.

Finally, a change!

Kyla woke up Sunday morning and in a very excited voice exclaimed, "Mommy, I see sunshine in my room!"

Yes, on the morning the time changed back, my four year old expressed my sentiments exactly. Finally! The time has changed back!

Hopefully, my morning crankiness will go away now. Of course, there is nothing a strong cup of coffee can't cure.

November Desktop

Here's the deal, people. I'm busy and I have no time to create a digi scrap masterpiece for November's desktop calendar.

So, I humbly submit a website that offers calendar desktops for your viewing (and downloading) pleasure.

My girls love the Strawberry Shortcake calendar... so, as you can imagine, that's what I have.

Yay for Cuties!

I was at my local grocery store today and lo and behold, what did I see?

Cuties! Yes, cuties!

I'm so tickled cutie I can barely contain myself. No, seriously, these are the best orange citrus variety on the market. And, the best part? They are like only 80 calories for two cuties.

So, forget about those pre-packaged 100 calorie snack packs and pick you up a box of clementine cuties. Living food... it's what its all about!

Alive and Well

Yes, I'm alive and well, just not a whole lot to report.

We've finally gotten our first taste of Fall this week, with temps hovering in the 50's yesterday (along with 30 mph winds!) Brrrr! It's going to warm up some today, but at least we can break out the long sleeved shirts.

Elisan stayed home yesterday from school because of some icky tummy troubles, but I'm happy to report she is back to school today.

We had a crazy busy weekend. I like busy weekends... but crazy busy? Not so much. It's like Randy said... he was going into work on Monday to catch a break. Isn't that the truth. Everyone who has kids tells me it only gets busier. Ack!

Elisan and Kyla began REAL ballet last week. Kyla is in combo ballet and tap and Elisan is in elementary ballet. They both love it and I'm impressed with the dance academy we chose.

I'm still working my literal booty off at the gym every day. That, along with sticking to my diet will hopefully help me reach my weight loss goal by the end of the year. Ideally, I'd like to lose 10 more pounds by Christmas. - which would be a whopping 30 pounds in 7 months time.

For anyone contemplating joining a gym, let me just say that it has changed my life. I feel better about myself and my mood is so much better. And to clarify... I began doing this for me! Not Randy, not my friends, but for me. I think that is the key... you have to do it for YOU.

So, aside from running around like a crazy momma, that's what's going on 'round here.

Hugs all 'round!

Tagged

I've been tagged by Charlie.

I've been instructed to write 7 things about myself, strange, crazy, funny but all true.

Tag 7 people and tell them they have been tagged by leaving a message on their blog.


Here goes:

1. At a track meet in school, I once ran AROUND the hurdle rather than jump over it.

2. I once had a solo in a church musical and ran off the stage in tears because I totally went blank on the second verse.

3. I love to cook, however, cannot make Rice Crispy Treats to save my life.

4. I love to eat hot wings. Hand's down, they are my favorite food.

5. Did you know they make 34J cup sized bras? Yep... you guessed it. I once wore a 34J cup bra! (Disclaimer - I was nursing at the time and thank goodness I am normal again!)

6. I've dated my boss before. (Trashy, I know.)

7. I've had tummy troubles on a mountain hike--if you know what I mean! We call it the "Mountain Dew"

I tag: Cyndi, L.A., Angie, Kristi, Pam, Anna, Amanda, Kimi

Smooch!

For posterity, I sit down and write this blog entry on behalf of my sweet little girl, Elisan.

For the life of me, I don't know why Randy didn't tell me this tid-bit of information immediately upon arriving home from soccer practice! In fact, he had the nerve to wait a whole 24 hours before imparting to me that Elisan had indeed kissed a boy!

Yes! Kissed a boy!

According to Randy, he was gathering the kids up on the soccer field and was about to run a drill with them. Elisan lined up behind a little boy (who will remain unnamed to protect the innocent!) on her team. She then, grabbed his face and KISSED HIM!

Randy said the little boy hollered, "Elisan! Stop it!" and at that time, she let go of her death grip on the little boy.

At the dinner table, Elisan was slightly embarrassed, but proud of her accomplishment. When asked why she did it, she said, "Because he's cute!"

So soon? No......................................................................!

I'm tired. Anyone else?

Could it be the 90+ degree temps in October that is wearing me out? Or, the piles (and piles) of laundry that just won't go away. Or, could it be running here, there and yonder (heh... yep, I said yonder. So?) that has me exhausted.

Please tell me I am not alone.

Back to the 90+ degree temps. Let me just say on behalf of all of the sane people in this part of the world. Yes... it IS October. No... it is not jeans and sweater weather. You look ridiculous. Seriously. Yes, I know.... it's Fall... I'm with you..., but really... it's not time to break out the boots. Snap out of it.

Happy Birthday Go-Go Girl!

Fun Room Decor

I saw this idea in The Company Kids catalog and loved it!

So, I decided to try and duplicate it! Here's my version:

I plan on printing it out in an 11x14 size at the local photo mart, and frame it in a white frame.

Creating this wall art, got my creative juices flowin' and I also made this one too!

If anyone wants these designs with your little princesses' name on it, let me know and I'll whip it up for you!

20

With Love from Denmark!

My friend, Charlotte from Denmark sent us a package filled with love today!

In one of my recent posts, I talked about how Randy missed his DK coffee - Cafe Noir. Well, Ms. Charlotte took it upon herself to send Randy a huge package of coffee! Randy was so thrilled, he said he didn't even want to use it - he wanted to "save it"!

She also sent me my favorite candy - Haribo Click Mix. It's the best mixture of gummy treats and you can't buy it here!

And finally, some goodies for the girls that she bought from Tivoli!

Thank you Charlotte! You made our day!

It's Never Too Early!

It's never to early to begin thinking about Christmas cards!
Be sure to check out my Christmas samples!

As an early Christmas present...
between now and October 21st, I'll do the design work
and email you the original digital file for FREE!

Click Here to email me for further details!

Quatrefoil

I've been teaching Kyla new and interesting shapes this week.

This is a quatrefoil. Yep, that's a new one to you too, right? Me, too.

So, anyway, as we're going over the shapes, I say the shape's name, then she picks it out, then I ask her to repeat back to me what the name of the shape is.

Quatrefoil is pronounced: (CAT ri foil)
Kyla's pronounciation of Quatrefoil: (CAT tri fingle)

Cute.

We're Whataburger Kinda People

Randy's company picnic was held at Seaworld in San Antonio last weekend.

Because Randy is a manager, he had to be at the picnic on both days - Saturday and Sunday, which was really nice for us!

The company also generously paid for all of the managers to spend the night in a hotel in San Antonio. Scratch that... no, it was a resort. A real resort. Luxury white robes in the closet kind of a resort.

So, we arrive and Randy gets us checked in and all that stuff. He said the place was so fancy, he hardly even knew where to check in. How crazy is that?

We get to our room and we have a fabulous view of the courtyard and hill-side golf course. The rooms are beautifully decorated, complete with marble floors and granite countertops in the bathroom. Elisan even commented on how fancy it was.

I pulled out the room-service menu as I was browsing the brochures and I happened upon the breakfast menu.

Sliced Banana - $2.00
Strawberries - $5.00
2 Waffles - $7.50
You get the gist...

There was some kind of fancy bottled water in our room - $5.00 per bottle. The wet bar didn't even have prices on the items in there, but I'm guessing there was at least $500.00 worth of snacks in there - (well, $500.00 for THEM... $50.00 for HEB)

The next morning, as we were getting ready to leave, Randy asked me if I wanted to eat breakfast at one of the six restaurants at the resort. I laughed and said, "What? Pay 40 bucks for breakfast? No thanks."

So, we checked out and looked for breakfast restaurant. Lo and behold, down at the bottom of the hill, was a Whataburger. Randy asked me if that looked okay to me and I said, sure.

He then said, "Let's face it, hun. We're Whataburger kinda people."

Sigh...so true. So true.

Best Blog Friend!

Look what my dear friend Charlotte of Hjemme hos Charlie sent all the way over from Denmark! A "Best Blog Friend" award!

My friend Charlotte and I met via internet through a mutual acquaintance living in France! How weird is that? Anyway, Charlotte and her family welcomed us with WIDE OPEN arms when we first arrived in Denmark and considered us a part of her family while we were there.

I honestly don't know what I would have done without her. So, thank you Charlotte for sending me this sweet award via cyberspace!

This is an award that deserves to be passed along!
I'd love to honor my BFF Cyndi!

End of an Era

Gone are the simplistic days of s-p-e-l-l-i-n-g out key words in our adult conversations. Some conversations consist of many spelled out words.

Here's an example: "Where do you want to e-a-t this evening? How about J-a-s-o-n-'s? Or C-h-u-y-'s? Or, we could s-t-a-y h-e-r-e? You know, the elder child will want C-h-u-y-'s, but' I'd rather J-a-s-o-n-'s."

But, today may mark the beginning of the end of our cryptic language.

I was on the phone with Randy and I spelled out a key word to our conversation. I mentioned the neighbor's c-a-t and how much the girls' like it and that too bad I was allergic to c-a-t-s, or else I'd like to get one for them.

Not 2 seconds after I hung up with Randy, Elisan says, "What about cats, mom?"

Me, "Oh, nothing, sweetpea."

Her, "Are we getting a cat?"

Me, "No. Remember? Cat's make mommy's eyes itchy."

Her, "But I heard you say you said you wanted to get one."

So... there it is. My life, no longer sheltered by the usage of spelled out words. Oh, it will be a hard habit to break. I'm sure I'll continue to use s-p-e-l-l-e-d out words for now.

Perhaps we can begin using Pig Latin?

Nah. I'd have to use my oggin'nay for that!

What's Cooking?

Y'all know I love to cook! But, I don't love to cook anything for lunch. I like quick and easy and filling.

Since I've been watching what I eat these days, I've grown tired of the usual turkey on whole wheat w/mustard sandwich. So, I've been on the hunt for some better lunch fare.

I tried the frozen meals, but honestly, I could eat two of them at one sitting. There is just not enough food in those meals! Especially after a mid-morning workout.

Then I found this at the grocery store! I realize Progresso Soup has been around for a long time, but what I didn't realize is that they have a new variety out that is (as my friend Cyndi would put it...) FIGURE FRIENDLY! I tried the Southwestern Style Vegetable and it was excellent! (I mean, if I am blogging about soup in a can, you know it must be good, right?!)

The website for Progresso Soup lists the many varieties available in their "light" line. The Southwestern Style Vegetable entire can had 120 calories, 0 fat grams, 24 grams of carbs and 8 grams of dietary fiber. For those counting Weight Watcher points - that's 0 (zero, zip, nada!) points!

It sure beats the plain 'ol sandwich. I can't wait to try the other varieties!

Stuff heard 'round the house!

The other day at dinner, I asked Elisan who she played with at school. She said that she played with the boys again.

So, I asked her, "Why aren't you playing with the girls?"

She said, "I do, a little. Today, I played with the boys, then I went to hang with the girls, but, then I went back and played some more with the boys."

I look up and see Randy snickering and after regaining composure, he says, "Hey, Elisan... what does 'hang with the girls' mean?"

(Because, seriously I don't remember "Slang" as being one of her classes in first grade.)

She rolled her eyes and said, "You know... on the monkey bars?"

My Favorite Photo

This is my favorite photo of the girls and me.

Here's a scrapbook page to preserve the memory!

My two best girls (and their mommy) goofing off one afternoon back in 2005.

From the Inside Out

When I began this blog over two years ago, I wanted it to be a memoir of sorts, for my girls. I wanted it to be a reflection of my thoughts and feelings, and also of my sacrifices, defeats and of course, successes. In a sense this blog is dedicated to them. Thus, the reason why I'm sharing this in this forum.

I've spent the last several months pondering the course of my life. I've realized during this time of reflection, that I've "missed" a lot of my girls' life because I was wrapped up in my own.

I'm not saying there is anything wrong with 'having a life'. Far from it. I just realized that I was too busy doing my own thing, that I practically missed a whole year of their precious little lives.

Over the last year, I did a lot of volunteering at my church. I loved every second of it and craved responsibility! I enjoyed the camaraderie and friends. I felt I needed to be involved not only for my church, but for me.

I suppose it came at a time when I felt a bit of freedom that I had not experienced in a long time. Elisan had just started Kindergarten and all of my days were occupied with one less child.

(Side note: For anyone who has two or more kids know that when you are down to one kid - whether it be just running errands or hanging out at home... life is much more simplified in a HUGE way.)

I felt I could get involved in other activities because of it and felt I could take on more stuff. So, that's what I did. I got really involved in my church and loved every second of it.

In addition to that, my fledgling little photo invitation business began to take off. When I wasn't working on church stuff, I was working on invitation orders. I was having a blast! Who doesn't like making money doing something you absolutely love? Yet, meanwhile, KM was vying for my attention, craving it, for that matter.

I was doing enough to get by... meaning... laundry, light housework and meals. Sure, we were doing just fine by "today's" standards... I mean, heck... I had dinner on the table at 6:30 p.m. each night, the kids were bathed, the beds were made, the laundry was put away! To some, that is a success, right?

I kept comparing myself to a 'working' mom. I was making money, so I just told myself (and the kids) that work was important and that I couldn't be interrupted with the little things.

By spring, things went from busy to full-scale work. My volunteering at the church bumped up to a directorship status - reporting directly to the children's pastor. Then invitation orders came flooding in. I felt successful and a bit arrogant. But truthfully, I was barely hanging on.

Then a strange thing happened. Randy came home telling me about a possible opportunity that he may offered a temporary job in China. Whoa! Talk about a reality check. What about me? What about all that I had been working for? What about my stuff?

I was so overwhelmed with the thought of moving to China I could no longer function. I knew I needed to cut some things from my life... the time-consuming stuff... and get back down to basics. So, I stepped away from all responsibilities at church. It was a painstaking decision, but I knew in my heart that it was necessary for my sanity.

Summer arrived and the girls' and I had a fabulous time. We did a lot of traveling back and forth to visit friends and family. We went swimming each day and just had a great time. I even joined the YMCA and lost about 12 pounds by exercising and doing something healthy for a change. I kept up my invitation business, but it was quickly slowing down because bridal shower season was coming to a close.

Yet, even with that, I was still not 'happy'. Oh, sure, I was happy, but not HAPPY... like the fulfilling kind of happiness that a person has knowing they are doing right by everyone. Why? Because I was still holding on to that selfish part of me that made life all about me.

I remember sitting at my friend Cyndi's house and complaining about this, that and the other. My kids, my husband, my house... everything. I clearly was not happy. Yet, in that conversation I don't remember saying anything about how I could change. How I could make a difference.

Several weeks passed and I humbly approached Randy and had a heart to heart with him. I told him about my unhappiness. I shared with him my guilts of not spending time with my kids. I wept to him describing how I was not living my life the way I wanted to be living it, or even how I should be living it.

From that moment on, something finally clicked in me. I realized that I didn't want to miss another single minute of their little lives. I didn't want to be regretful of not spending enough time with my daughters. I didn't want to be remorseful of the way I've neglected my husband. I realized that my job... my life... is about, and will always be about... my family.

So, I resolved to my husband and to myself that this year will be about my girls. I will not over-commit to anything this year. I will not over extend myself this year. What I want to do is sear these moments in my mind forever, because ya know what? I will always be able to volunteer at the school, or serve at my church or run a small at home business... but I will NEVER be able to get these years back when my girls, are little girls. Little girls that need their mommy. Little girls who look to their mom as their number one role model.

I want to look into their eyes and know that their every need - whether emotional, physical or mental - is met 100% and that mommy was there for them, not just in the same room with them. I want them to remember me, for me... their mom who loved them very much.

Randy supports me 100%. After all, I am a stay at home mom for a reason. That's not to say, that volunteering or serving is not honorable, because it is. It deserves one of the highest honors. But right now, I'm serving my God and I'm serving my husband and my daughters - From the inside out.

Photos by Kristi Richards Photography

Sisterly Love

I've been meaning to write about this story, but have been forgetting, amidst all of the 'gettin ready for school' stuff we've been doing.

A few weeks ago at the YMCA, I was picking up the girls after my workout and after looking for them for about 1 minute, I began to worry. Usually, KM spots me first and makes a mad dash to me, but not this time. Neither one of the girls were to be found.

--Heart-pounding--

I round the corner and I hear giggling from the girls' bathroom. I peek under the stall and see Elisan's shoes and KM's shoes dangling.

--Heart-rate slowing down now--

I walk up to the stall and tell Elisan to open the door. There is KM on the potty, pooping. If you know me at all, you know I am an anal kind of gal when it comes to matters of the potty and pooping. See, the gist of it is, that I am still wiping KM's botty after she poops. I can't stand the idea of her wiping herself. Nope. Not yet, anyway. I'm a little weird like that.

So, anyway, back to the story... KM is pooping and Elisan is standing there with her. I ask Elisan, "Elle, whatcha doing?"

She says, "Kyla's pooping!" in that "like duh!" voice.

I say, "She can poop by herself, ya know."

She says, "But, she can't wipe her self."

I say, "So, what? Were you going to wipe her booty for her?"

She says, "Yes... but, I didn't want to!"

That, my friends, is sisterly love.

So, next time you are questioning the love you have for your sister, (or brother for that matter...) stop and ask yourself... Would you wipe their booty for them?

First Grade

Tomorrow, Elisan begins first grade. Wow! First grade. I don't feel old enough to have a first grader.

Tonight, we meet the teacher, pick up our school supplies and uniform shirt at Orientation. I'm looking forward to meeting her teacher. Elisan is looking forward to seeing her friends.

I'm ready for school to begin, because seriously, there is only so much swimming I can endure in three months time. Plus, Elisan is going a little stir-crazy!

This year, she'll be in school until 3:30 p.m. That's an hour and a half longer than last year. That's a long day for a newly turned 6 year old. I hope my baby girl doesn't poop out at 2:00.

And, then there's Kyla... she's going to miss Elisan so much! But, I've signed KM up for a six week course of Kinderdance at our local recreation center, so she'll have something that is just for her. Since we've decided to not enroll KM in preschool this year, I've purchased some preschool materials to help give her a kick start in the right direction. And finally, there's the YMCA... we'll be going there first thing in the morning after drop off, so she'll get some playtime with other kids.

Tomorrow, I face the dreaded commute. But, I know what to expect this year and as long as we're out the door by 7:25 a.m., I'll have plenty of time! (Yikes! That's early!)

So, let the school year begin. We're geared up and ready to go!

One last hurrah...

Since our traveling is limited during the school year... what with family living five hours away and Fall soccer games starting up in two weeks... I decided to take the girls on one last trip to visit friends and family.

Our first stop, was Houston to visit my closest friend, Mrs. C. We spent two nights there and had a great time. The kids played beautifully and Mrs. C and I actually had time to visit and catch-up. While there, we ventured out to the Houston Children's Museum and nearly floated away in the flood waters from Tropical Storm Erin.

On Friday, we continued our travels to my hometown. The girls spent the night with Randy's folks and my parent's and I went out to eat. It was the first meal in a long time where I was able to sit and enjoy my food. I had forgotten what that was like!

Saturday, my mom and I did some shopping on Tax-Free weekend and found a few bargains. And, then I visited my friend Angie and her new baby Reed. He is really precious and sweet! We also had dinner together... ANOTHER meal sans kids! It was nice.

Sunday, my brother and his family came over and we celebrated both Elisan's and my nephew, Brady's birthdays with ice cream cake (super easy to make!) and presents.

Monday, we headed home. It's always nice to visit, but it's nicer to come back home. Randy was waiting for us and the girls were so glad to see him.

Today... it's back to the daily grind. This is Elisan's last week before school begins, so I'm sure we'll be swimming as often as possible. We'll also be heading to the gym so I can work off the pounds I'm sure I put back on while we were away.

The countdown begins!

Happy Birthday Elisan!

Oh how time flies!

Dinner blessing as told by Kyla Mae

Kyla Mae insists on giving the dinner blessing every night. Sometimes its the same, sometimes she spices things up. Here's tonight's rendition:

"Dear Jesus. Thank you for Mommy and Daddy and Elisan and Kyla Mae. Thank you for all the blessings. Thank you for the bad things we do. And... Jesus is coming to my birthday party. Amen."

If I've told you once...

If I've told you once, I've told you a million times... Please put your shoes away!

Digi Scrap Fun!

I've been having fun putting together some digi scrapbook pages for the girls. I know, I know... most of you are still paper scrappin', but I'm loving the digi scrap! It's super easy, there is no waste and I can use the materials over and over again!

I just set my page set-up to 8x10, then up-load the final masterpiece to my local photo processing center. To have an 8x10 printed up is only $2.50! Can't beat that!

Here's Elisan's six year old scrap page. Her birthday is THIS week!

Kyla Mae needed a page all to herself and I love this picture of my sweet baby girl!

The sister page is probably my favorite, since it shows the girls throughout the years!
(Doesn't KM look old beyond her years in the black and white photo?

I can "see" her as a teenager in this photo!)

I downloaded the (FREE!) digi scrap files from Two Peas in a Bucket and from Shabby Princess.

Cafe Noir

While we were in Denmark, Randy fell in love with Merrild's Cafe Noir. Cafe Noir was the first brand of coffee we bought - by chance actually, while we were living in Denmark. Since then, Randy has always compared coffee to that of Cafe Noir and has even had me on the look-out for any kind of coffee that was similar to it.

About two years ago, one of our friends from Denmark visited Texas and before he left on his trip, he asked Randy if there was anything he wanted from Denmark. Randy asked for Cafe Noir coffee and the question back to Randy was "What style?"

Well, since Randy doesn't do the food shopping around here and hasn't a clue as to what would be the appropriate style of coffee to request, when given his options of "whole Beans, ground, instant" he chose instant.

So, when Jørgen shows up with two jars of instant coffee, I was thinking to myself, "What?!" It was only later that I found out that Randy told him "instant."

Well, as you can imagine, the instant coffee is... well,... it's instant and no offense to instant coffee drinkers out there, but... I like freshly ground coffee and there is no comparison.

Fast forward to this past weekend... we were in IKEA (as was the entire population of Central Texas) and I spotted a flat of ground coffee manufactured for IKEA. So, we bought a bag of it, hoping it resembled the flavor of Cafe Noir. And, ya know what? It did, in a Swedish kind of way. In fact, it was distributed from Helsingborg, Sweden, which is the only city we visited while we were living in Denmark.

So, Randy now has a way to get his beloved Scandinavian coffee.

(By the way... what did I ask for when our friend Jørgen came to Texas? Danish tabloids, Haribo Click Mix and Pickwick Christmas Tea.)