More Christmas!

Today we visited Aunt Di's house. It was lovely because Granny and Papa were there! Also, Lauren is home to visit from Washington D.C.. She brought her boyfriend Ryon as well. And Beck and Ted and the twins joined, and we had a big old fashioned Christmas.

Only we forgot to do the traditional kid chant of "WE WANT THE PRESENTS!" in front of the tree. We just kind of dove in!

It was great to get to see all of my family and visit with Granny, Papa and Lauren. I posted all of the pictures on smugmug (link is to the right) but I'm sharing a couple here.

....and I still haven't taken my tree down yet....

Whew... we made it!

It seems like it just started, but Christmas is actually over!

As usual, December kicked off with Clara's Tea. The event where Julia and I get to dress up and go to a tea party - just for girls! We get to enjoy some finger foods and sweet desserts at fancy tables, and then watch a story book performance of the Nutcracker. In this feature, the story of The Nutcracker is read while the dancers give brief dancing performances. Afterward, the girls are able to get autographs from all of the dancers. We were lucky to have Julia's best friend Megan and our friend Marissa go with us. Neither of them had ever been before, so we were happy to introduce them to the tradition. I took lots and lots of pictures!

Although I covered this topic in my last post, it snowed in Sugar Land the following week! It was a huge deal, and the kids are still talking about it. It amazes me to hear all of the stories from everyone about the inches of snow they got! Even though our snow didn't stick enough to pile up it was still very exciting to us.

The next weekend was the actual Nutcracker performance. Our babysitter, Kelly, danced Snow Queen this year. It was so exciting to see her dance the part, and she did such a great job! Julia brought her some roses.

We hosted a party at our house the same weekend for Mike's staff at the Wellness Center. We had a lovely weekend with his group and their spouses and children. We got our chocolate fountain going - which was a huge hit with the kids. The party concluded with a fairly polite White Elephant game!

We spent Christmas Eve at Michael's parents house. It was so nice to eat a yummy rib roast dinner, visit with our family - including James and Maly - and introduce them all to the "A Christmas Story" marathon on TBS. Yes, I know! They had never seen it! My favorite part is still when Ralphie says the bad word while helping "The Old Man" change the tire...

Unbelievably, we had to wake the kids up on Christmas morning! And we only did this because we had to get the show on the road since we were hosting the family at our house on Christmas Day. We had such a good time watching the kids tear into their gifts.

My mother's family came over mid-day for the Christmas celebration. I made the turkey this year, and it turned out very well. I put it in a brine mixture for 14 hours, and it really did make it a nice juicy turkey! Aunt Theresa stayed late with us and we played Boom Blocks on the Wii. Brandon never did get a nap, so he crashed - in the middle of the playroom floor - by 6:30 pm!

I'm so tickled about the response from my Christmas cards this year! Each year I get very busy at work since it is benefit season, and I've found it hard to find the time - or be creative - when it comes to my annual greeting, so this year I called in for help. Michael's cousin, Diane, runs a printing business in Idaho, and I loved her cards last year so much that I decided to hire her - in August! I sent the pictures and the text, and she sent me proofs. The cards were shipped, so all I had to do was stuff the envelopes and mail them! I started getting lots of positive feedback immediately. So I must give a shout out to Diane. THANK YOU!

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas! We've counted our blessings this year and look forward to a wonderful 2009. I took lots and lots of pictures this season, so if you'd like to check them out, click on the link on the right side of my blog. (You may have to scroll up a little!)

Weather That Can Only Be Seen In Texas

Hello. It's snowing.

I think that phrase, next to "it's just not humid enough" is something you don't regularly hear 'round these parts.

BUT IT'S SNOWING!

I had to run an errand for work today, and as hectic as it was, I couldn't resist sticking my tongue out like a kid to catch a snowflake!

And what a sight to see driving up to pick up Julia and Hayden from the District Extended Day. Each and every kid was outside near the bike racks, running frantically in circles - yes, tongues sticking out - enjoying this white stuff! I know the teachers were loving it, because the kids were literally entertaining themselves.

To think it was 78 degrees yesterday evening, and our house was stifling hot. When I got home I opened both the front and back doors to get some cool air, as the cold front was just starting to come through. Needless to say, I didn't have them open all that long...

And we will be back in the mid seventies by the weekend.

As the post title says - Only In Texas!!!!

AAAAANNNNNDDDDD we're off!!!

Nanner Nanner NAAAAANNNER!!!!

Okay, that's out of my system, but COME ON! I have to gloat a LITTLE that I'm at least a tiny bit ahead of the game here... I mean, there are even presents under there! Which means, yes, we ventured out into the dangerous jungle called... BLACK FRIDAY!

But I'll back up some.

Julia is in on the big secret now. You know, the BIG one. Yes, she knows the truth about Santa Claus. It didn't come as much of a shock to her. Last year, I had a suspicion the jig was up when she said, "Mom, can I ask you a question, and do you promise you'll tell me the truth." Of course, my love, I said. Thinking before speaking, she said slowly, "On Christmas Eve, do you and Dad get up after midnight and go to the store, buy gifts for us and pretend they are from Santa Claus?" Heaving a huge sigh of relief, I answered, "Julia, I promise you that on Christmas Eve, me and Dad do NOT get up after midnight and go to the store." She looked skeptical. "Pinky promise!" I said, extending my fourth finger out. Good enough for her. "You got off on a technicality!" laughed my husband.

So he thought it was time to let her in on the big reveal, thinking she should know about it before kids make fun of her in school. So since Hayden was safely across town, we brought her down and told her. I figured she would fall apart (I did!) but she was really cool with it. She's excited to be in on the joke so she can have fun watching her brothers now.

Yesterday we had a great time at my mother's house in the Woodlands for Thanksgiving. I spent a great deal of time squeezing on my nephew, Jackson. Don't tell my mother, but he was more delicious than the turkey! He is such a good baby! He cracked a big grin at me a couple of times, but mostly, he was happy just to lay or sleep with me holding him. We were able to visit with my dad and Kathy, my grandparents and more family. And for those of you who are dying to know, Julia loves pumpkin pie. Go figure.

We got home rather late and got the kids into bed. I don't think I moved all night long, I was so tired. And my good night's sleep was complete since Boo decided he wouldn't come get in bed with me between the hours of 3 and 6AM! So Mike and I woke up at 7AM, looked at each other and said "What the heck. Let's go."

We hit Starbucks first, but then on to Target, the mall, lunch, Sam's, Wal-Mart, and back to Target. Then home, nap with Brandon, wrap presents and put the tree up. And it was truly a team effort. This year Brandon loved putting the ornaments on the tree, and three hours later, he hasn't taken a single one back off!

While we're certainly not finished, we're off to a better start than I thought we would be. I would say we're about 70% there. And the deals, oh my, I love a good deal, and there were LOTS of them!

So as they say, LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!!!! It's time for Christmas!

BONUS BLOG!

I saw this on another blog and had to do it!

Everything you wanted...and didn't want...to know about Michael!

Where did you meet?
We didn’t officially meet until two months after summer band started in August of 1988 at Sam Rayburn High School. I had to practically stalk him before he approached me and handed me a note in the hallway at school.

How long did you date?
6 years

How long have we been married?
15 years this August. Whoa.

What does he say that surprises you?
Can’t think of anything in particular, although he loves to say things that bug me. He says he does it because he loves me.

What is your favorite feature about him?
His eyes, his smile, and he has nice hands.

What is your favorite quality of his?
He is so patient.

Does he have a nickname for you?
He calls me “Honey”.

What is his favorite color?
Mmmm, green or blue, I think.

What is his favorite sport?
He loves football.

What is his favorite food?
I can’t really say he likes a type of food more than others, because he eats a variety of things… as long as they don’t have onions in them.

Where and when did you first kiss?
HA! I love this question because it’s a source of debate. The first actual kiss was in the foyer of his house with my mother waiting in the car outside, October of 1988. I know because I felt it for days afterward. While he says he remembers that kiss, he insists that our second kiss was our first kiss. We argue about this regularly.

What is your favorite thing to do as a couple?
I suppose aside from the obvious : ) we like to watch our favorite shows together: The Office, The Amazing Race, The Soup, Lost….

Do you have children?
Some of the most gorgeous ever, yes. Julia is 9, Hayden will be 6 next month, and Brandon is 2 ½.

Does he have a hidden talent?
SOOO many! He’s a great cook, landscaper, carpenter, doctor….

How old is he?
34, but a year and a half younger – which he loves to remind me of quite often.

Who said "I love you first?"
Well, probably me. He was so shy, and I’m so…. not shy.

What is his favorite type of music?
Alternative, although he listens to a broad range often.

What do you admire most about him?
He is every woman’s dream as far as a husband, friend and father. He is nuts about his kids.

Do you think he will read this?
He’ll pretend not to, but I know he regularly reads my blog. BUSTED!

Where did you go on your first date?
HA! To Rayburn’s homecoming, which was actually just the football game. We were in band. Little did we know my parents sat right behind his parents and trash talked about Michael the whole time – which they heard!

Thanksgiving Eve

Ahhhh....

Four consecutive days off!!!! EVERYBODY SAY "HAAAAYYYYYY!!!!!!"

It is so blissfully quiet at home right now. Could it be my rowdy kindergartner is in The Woodlands with my mother? Why yes! He's getting some quality one-on-one with Nina and Paw Paw tonight before we join them and the rest of the family for Thanksgiving tomorrow.

I'm looking forward to the holiday this year, particularly because it will be the first time I've spent the day with my dad in I don't know how many years. He and my step-mother Kathy are coming to my mother's house. Some say that's weird, but in our case, it's not.

Talk about a minimal week! Mike and I tag teamed this week in regard to care for the two big kids. Since school is closed all week for the Holiday, our alternative was to put them both in Kids R Kids for 3 days. But given that they wanted a full week of tuition, $140 each, well, an alternative was necessary. So I took Monday off, Mike took Tuesday off. Today they drove all over Houston with Michael's dad in his big wrecker! That leaves me working just two days this week.

So a great day tomorrow will start with Julia and I preparing our sweet potato dish, all while watching the Thanksgiving parade on TV. Does anyone besides me and Julia LOVE that parade? It's such a tradition!! They were cracking up the other day at the commercial where big balloon Stewie...and the other one, (that, for some reason has escaped me at the moment...) battle over the balloon Coke bottle, ultimately to end up with Charlie Brown. So cute.

Julia has also informed us that she wants to try pumpkin pie. This I just don't quite understand...? Pumpkin pie is just the most perfect Thanksgiving treat, so undeniably yummy, I can't fathom anyone needing to get their gumption up to try it? I bought a huge one at Sam's today and am secretly hoping that no one else wants any so that I can have as much as I want!

And Friday, the tree will go up. My husband has told me that he thinks he needs to be somewhere.... The punk.

Anyway, Happy Thanksgiving to each and every one of you. May you enjoy your time with your families and give thanks!

A Nine Year-Old Girl and a "Clipping Up" Boy

Well, its officially official now. We have a tween.

Julia's birthday was Friday, and even before then, it seems we had celebrated her birthday at least 5 times already! In any case, her party was Friday evening at Sweet and Sassy, where she and 7 of her friends enjoyed "A Night on the Red Carpet". What's that? See the pictures by clicking the link to the right of this post and look in the "November 2008" folder. (Our beautiful pictures from Wurstfest are in the same folder. )

And how's this for a change? Our Hayden has clipped up to blue two days in a row! I know most of you don't know what that means, but let's just say it's a good thing. He is very proud of himself.

I know my posts have been short and not as frequent - sorry - but I barely have time to sit these days, and the time that I do have to sit, the creativity just isn't coming. Tired, tired and more tired. Funny how I always say this time of year gives me energy, but at the end of the day, I feel sapped of it more than ever!

Until Next Year...

Wow, we could not have asked for a more perfect weekend to go to the river this year.

We've been going to Wurstfest in November for almost 20 years, and we've never seen fall foliage. Fall must have come early this year because the trees were just BEAUTIFUL. I couldn't stop taking pictures. It was so awesome just to sit, listen and look around. I guess if I had one gripe at all, it would be that the river was very, very low, and didn't sing the way it normally does. But all things considered, it was picture perfect... see above for proof!

Mike picked me up from work early last Thursday and we took off. We arrived early in the afternoon and met up with my two aunts, and later our friend Jim. It was COLD - but yes, we love it that way! A roaring fire and some great campsite food is the way to go!

The next day, my aunt's friends arrived and some more of our friends, bringing our group total to 12. We played board games by the river, visited the dam at Canyon Lake and cruised River Road in the Mini. A perfect day.

Wurstfest was Friday night, a change from the regular routine because we usually go on Saturdays. This worked out better because it wasn't nearly as crowded! Although we missed out on the traditional chicken dance, our group had a great time eating some fabulous food and dancing to the "ooompa" music!

That left one more full day at the river and campsite, more games, more cruising, more laughing, more relaxing...

Perfect. Weekends such as these make it very hard to wait for the next one!

Fun Halloween Weekend

We had such a fun Halloween this year!

We started with a party at Julia's best friend's house. Her mother went all out! There were several stations for the kids, such as pumpkin decorating, cookie decorating, flashlight projects, play dough, pumpkin sticker projects, etc! And she had fruit, cold cuts, and juice. But I must say, the best part of all was the "Grown Up Cooler", complete with several variations of beer and wine for all of the Mommies and Daddies!

Julia, the "Midnight Fairy", Hayden "The Joker", and Brandon, "Batman"

There were at least 15 kids at the party who all had a very good time! Once everyone left at dusk, we went Trick or Treating with our friends. Julia had a blast with Megan, and Hayden enjoyed running with his buddy, Mason, who is his age. Brandon caught on quickly to the concept, and tried his very best to keep up with the older children. His bucket became very heavy after a while! I must say, this was the first time I had ever been Trick or Treating with my kids while bringing along a glass of wine for myself, but this added a whole new element of fun. Be sure to check out the full gallery of Halloween pictures on my Smugmug website (link is to the right sidebar) and see if you notice how many of the adults have an alcoholic beverage in hand! Other parents commented that they wish they had thought of that!

Once we were done, we stopped by to see Aunt Di, and luckily, our cousins Jackson and Matthew were there too, and very eager to pass out yet more candy to my kids. Once we got home and turned on the porch light to indicate we were open for business, we had a grand total of two doorbell rings! I foresaw this and only bought one small bag of candy to pass out this year.

All of the kids slept in late Saturday morning, which was very nice. Then it was off to Hayden's final game of the season. Hayden played very well, with each at bat resulting in a hit. Always a crowd-pleaser, in the second inning after his hit, while sprinting to first base, Hayden rolled up his sleeve to display his massive "muscle bump" in his bicep to the adoring crowd. Once the game was over, we moved over to the pavilion to celebrate the Bats fantastic fall season with a party. The kids had pizza, cupcakes and trophies! Coach Joe congratulated Hayden on being the team's strongest hitter!

Thanks to Nina and PawPaw, Grandma and Grandpa, Aunt Jenny, cousins Baileigh and baby Jackson for coming out to support Hayden and cheer him on!

Saturday evening was date night for Mike and I. We were invited by my boss to attend a gala held at the dealership to Champion the Cure for Cystic Fibrosis. There we had fantastic food provided by some of the best restaurants in our area. We even shook hands with Houston Astros pitcher Woody Williams. It was fun evening and we had a great time hanging out together. We are so very blessed that our children are healthy.

Today is Sunday, and we're looking forward to relaxing with the kids and finishing up laundry. Michael is planning some of his famous baby back ribs for dinner tonight. Aren't you SO jealous????

Election Jitters!

One week! I don't know about any of you guys, but I'm just disgusted at the media. Not that it's been a big secret that they're liberal, but the fact they are not even trying to MASK IT ANYMORE! I'm not sure it is the Democratic candidate himself, rather I tend to think the media is jumping the gun a bit on pronouncing Barak Obama as the expected winner. I mean, what is it with these polls being so different? And more importantly, where are they getting their data???? No one has asked ME who I am voting for, so who is being asked????

Personally, I think there will be a surprising number in the polls come election day. GO MCCAIN/PALIN!!!

Thanks to those of you who asked about Hayden's testing. His teacher doesn't know when we will get results, but I hope it's soon. And I'll post it here. I'm hoping he qualifies, because I think he will do well in the program, however, I'm not holding my breath. My BFF, who is a teacher, told me that it's hard to test Kindergartners, simply because they have a difficult time sitting for the actual test. And those of you who know Hayden will know it's hard for him to sit for ANYTHING. We told him the night before that he was going to take a test, and we wanted him to do well because we wanted to "measure his brain"! He had acted up at school the other day, and as a consequence, he was told to do some extra work for us, including writing sentences ("I will not argue with a grown-up"). I gave him a worksheet with math problems, addition to 15. I noticed on one side of the worksheet it was a little more difficult, for example: 8 + __ = 13. I told him not to bother with those, but as usual, he wasn't listening. He did both sides....perfectly. Every single one of them were right. When I told him he really didn't have to do the harder side of the worksheet, he said "Well, I hate to tell you this, Mom, but I had to use my fingers to count." I assured him it was fine that a five year old Kindergartner had to use fingers to do math, and added, "Mommy still has to use her fingers too!"

Speaking of the election and my kids, this is pretty funny. When Mike and I feel we are doing our very best to raise up good, level-headed, upstanding CONSERVATIVES, they surprise us with their own passion for the "issues". Michael said the buzz among the 5-8 year old "constituates" is that if Obama is elected president, they will have an extra 2 hours of school per day. Needless to say, my children are Pro-McCain! Hey, it's a start....

Keep Your Fingers Crossed!

I want to give a shout out to my little big man today! He's taking his GT test today... GO HAYDEN!!!!

Endings and Beginnings

Just when we get used to everything being new, something happens to remind us that things end.

A friend of the family passed today and I'm so sad about it. He was a young man with a young family, and my heart goes out to them. Another good friend's father passed as well earlier in the week.

But also, Jackson joined our family last week, my cousin Dawn is pregnant, and my other cousin Dennis is engaged! These are wonderful things!

Tomorrow, we're packing the grandstands at West Sugar Land Little League, as Michael's parents and my mother come to watch the Bats take on the Grasshoppers! Hayden had to miss his game on Thursday because the field was so bad, so he's really ready to play tomorrow.

Now, did anyone see my previous post with my cool yard sign? Because NOBODY said anything!!

Fun-Filled Weekend

We just had a lovely weekend!

Friday night we had popcorn for dinner. Are we just the coolest parents on the planet, or what? We picked up the new Sleeping Beauty double disk Platinum Edition, and spent the evening munching on popcorn and enjoying the movie.

Nina and PawPaw came Saturday to watch Hayden play baseball. He did very well again this time. He made two outs and was consistent with the ball. He seems to be getting more and more focused on the field, and he was fun to watch.

Today we visited Dewberry Farms in Brookshire with our friends. Mike and I had never been before, so it was a new experience for us. The kids had a great time, and there were two little boys with us that were Hayden and Brandon's age. There were self propelled go-karts, a HUGE jumping jack, hayrides, slides, etc. Julia had the opportunity to pick wildflowers and fill a bucket. Right up her alley! And finally, a pumpkin patch, where all three kids picked out a pumpkin. (See picture above. We finished our day with dinner at the Swinging Door BBQ in Richmond. All of the kids have just had their baths, and we're all worn out!

Here's a couple of pictures:

Oh, and one more....

Have a great week!

Welcome Jackson Carter Wisocki!

My nephew was born yesterday morning. Isn't he a keeper??



He didn't make a peep the whole time I went to visit, and even opened his eyes to say hello to me. Gosh, you really forget how tiny they are when they arrive!

Jackson says, "Hey, where'd my dinner go? It was right here a minute ago??"

Congratulations Jennifer, Chris and Big Sister Baileigh.... have fun with him!

Stellar Start To Fall Ball!

This morning was Hayden's first game of the Fall Ball season.

So far, this is the most fun we have had, and we're only one game in. We have a group of parents who are all close friends, and we've been welcomed into the fold. My friend Alisa, who was in my bunco group, made sure that Hayden was picked by coach Joe Pisano. They are a wild bunch!

Dad and Hayden get in some warm ups before the game starts.

WOW! Talk about a great start. And not just Hayden, but our whole team. During Fall Ball, Hayden's age group is "T-Ball/Coach Pitch". Essentially, the kids are given five pitches to try and hit, and if they miss all five, they hit off of the tee. They only play three innings each, there are no outs, there is no score kept, and each player bats once in each inning. My boy nailed the ball straight to the outfield on the first pitch - ALL THREE TIMES AT BAT! Not only that, but our entire team hit the pitched balls during the first inning, and never needed the tee!

I'm planning to work on my Smugmug page tonight and put the rest of the pictures I took, so be sure to check it out... htpp://themasters.smugmug.com

I took a video of his first at bat for your viewing pleasure... I love how Ashley comes sliding in right at the end! And yes, that's my cute husband right behind Hayden.

Another perk? Ladies? Oh my, would you CHECK OUT OUR COACHES?????

Go Bats!

Let's Put Things In Perspective, Shall We?

Okay, first of all... THANK YOU SHONDA AND CHANNING!!!

Channing texted me today and wanted to know why I hadn't posted a new blog in a couple of days. That means he's reading it!!

And thanks to Shonda. Not only did she leave me a comment that she loves reading my blog, but she told me I was skinny. Oh, the love...

Okay, so why the outpouring of gratefulness?

Because it's been a crappy week, that's why!

Hayden has been a challenge all week at school. He is SOOOOO bored with Kindergarten and is acting out quite a bit. It's really upsetting to Mike and I because we have to punish behavior almost every night. I'm completely drained from being angry at him so much.

I realized that I have to pick myself up and make the situation better, and take advantage of the blessings in my life. Hayden will be fine. Mike and I, with lots of patience, are going to steer him in the direction he needs to go. Hardhead that he is, he is determined to learn the hard way, so we are ready. But OH MY GOD he's hardheaded!!! (like his dad... heee hee!!!!)

So as I mentioned before, my husband is wonderful. This month marks twenty years of togetherness. WOW! On his way home, he stopped and bought a bottle of wine and some sushi. (We are exploring sushi together!!!!) He fed the kids and sent them upstairs for some TV, then he and I lit a candle and sat at the table together in the candlelight. He filled my wine glass to the brim.

Then came SMOOTHIE NIGHT.

The kids love smoothie night. I make nutritious yogurt smoothies with fresh fruit - only tonight we had chocolate banana smoothies. Still pretty healthy as far as I'm concerned. For your viewing pleasure:

Julia and Hayden enjoy their treat!

Brandon and Mommy always share.

For some reason, reaching the bottom of the glass and hearing the sound of air running through the straw always cracks him up!

Maybe it IS the full glass of wine, but I'm feeling much better. Plus, there's always the fact that it's FRIDAY!!!

I love you Channing and Shonda! THANKS FOR READING MY BLOG!!!!

Oh, and one more thing. PLEASE vote for McCain. Not only is he much better than "Oprah-ma" the socialist, but we'd get to look at Todd Palin for at least four years. Sarah Palin has it all. Did you see how sexy she looked in her heels at the debate last night?

Great Weekend

Back at work on Monday after a relatively low key weekend.

Michael's parents wanted to spend the weekend with Hayden, so we met them Friday night at Fish City Grill in Greenway Plaza to play "pass the child". It was a nice dinner since we also got to see their good friends, Becky and JR Greene. It was also Happy Hour, so that was a plus! Hayden was very excited to get Grandma and Grandpa all to himself. Saturday, they took him to the Museum in Houston for the Dinosaur Mummy Exhibit. Very cool! He liked the dinosaur stuff. Grandma says he has a lot of energy!

Which is where the low key stuff comes in for us. Since the energy was across town in Pasadena, it was pretty quiet around our house, even with Brandon home. It's so interesting to see how different the dynamic is. When Julia plays with him, it's different than when Hayden does. I suppose it's a combination of both their age and their gender. Julia is very maternal toward him, and plays to cater to him, where Hayden plays with him for his own enjoyment. I think you can determine which one makes Brandon happier overall!

Julia and I cleaned out her bedroom. At first she wasn't thrilled, but when we were done and she saw how pretty her room is when it's picked up, she enjoyed spending time in there. She has begun to earn an allowance for her help around the house. She does a good job, too! She will clear the table, rinse dishes and put them in the dishwasher. When I tell her I need to start laundry, she will get the hamper out of Brandon's room and fill it with the clothes out of hers and Hayden's hamper, pick up any "stragglers" upstairs that needs to be washed and leave the hamper at the top of the stairs for me to take down. Once her clothes are washed and folded, she will take her own basket upstairs and put all of her clothes away. She understands that she must do these things without being asked in order to earn her allowance. My big girl....

She and I are looking at idea books and planning to update her room decor. Something that will still scream girl, but a little more grown up so she can grow into it. She is really excited about being involved in the process, and I must say, some of her ideas are very cute! I told Michael I wanted this to be mine and Julia's project. I think he's a little freaked out about that... he loves to be in control when it comes to that stuff!

He did some more work in the backyard this weekend. He laid stone out in a section and grouted it in. Now there is a lovely shaded area to put our park bench, very near the kids' swing set. He added more plants and landscaping. We were so lucky not to have lost our fence during Ike, because if it had blown over, it would have damaged or crushed the new shrubs he recently planted. The only real problem we are having with the yard right now are the ANTS. OMG they are EVERYWHERE!!! So bad, in fact, that I don't want the kids out there playing.

I was so happy this morning when I dropped Brandon off at school to see Mrs. Brenda at the front desk! She was the school director for years at KRK, and a year ago, she retired. I guess she missed the kids more than she thought she would, so she came back as the Curriculum Coordinator. She gave me a big hug, said how much she missed me, how gorgeous Brandon was, and told me I was skinny. I love her...

Our camping trip is coming up in November and

I

CAN'T

WAIT!!!!!

The weather has been so gorgeous here lately and it's really getting me in the mood. This morning, Julia had to wear a jacket because it was 60 degrees outside! I love fall because it seems to give me so much energy. There are so many things to look forward to this time of year - mainly the camping trip. I hope it's COLD this year! So many people think we're nuts, but there is absolutely no better place on earth to be in November than New Braunfels. We eat like kings. Last year, Channing made fajitas. YUM! I would love to get some great camp jambalaya this year if possible. Between the food, relaxation and great friends around, it's no wonder we look forward to it every year. Plus, it's a great opportunity to hang out with Channing and trade good natured barbs with him. (Hey Channing, did you know Lawrence Fishbourne is SMOOTH???? You'll never live that one down!) And I get to see my Aunt Theresa and Aunt Chris. Lovely. Can't wait....

Speaking of the weather, is there any other proof needed that God Blessed Texas?? Okay, so there's the hurricane thing, but that aside, with so many people still without power, the weather has been wonderful and cool! And I know it is helping people cope. I couldn't imagine still being without power! That's crazy!

Yesterday we went to Michael's parents house for dinner and to collect our son. Since we were in the area, I wanted to go check on my sister's house. Although it was bad, it was not as bad as I had imagined! She has a hole in her roof in her bedroom and the entire ceiling is gone. Her ceiling in the living room finally fell in because it got so wet. She will be getting new walls and the structure fixed, but it's okay for her to live there in the meantime - my main concern. Her back door was crowbar-opened, so now she doesn't have to go through the window to get in and out of her house! (LOTS of jokes about that! Images of Dukes of Hazzard come to mind!) Most importantly, her spirits are way up.

Can it be a blog if I don't have a title for it?

That's going to get old, trying to title each blog without sounding stupid!

Well, yesterday I had my foot x-rayed because it's hurting more and more each day. It turns out I do have a fracture at the base of my toe in probably the worst place possible! Not bad enough to actually have a cast or anything, but enough of a pain in the rear nevertheless. So I have a weird brace on my foot that keeps it from flexing when I walk, and I've been told to try and immobilize it as much as possible. Here is a picture of me here at work today with my fashionable new shoe... aren't you jealous?!?

And the stories at work about how it happened keep getting zanier!

Come to think of it, looking at that picture, should I go as Sarah Palin for Halloween this year? I haven't perfected the updo, but I have the bangs!

The other night, Brandon was being rather difficult at bedtime. He was determined not to cooperate and had a rough go before he finally crashed. That's when Mike said, "Go check him out!" He had literally torn his bed apart. He has a crib that converts to a daybed when you take the front rail off. We have a partial rail in place to keep him from rolling out when he sleeps. Well, he had taken the partial rail out, the mattress and bedskirt as well. It looked like a stuffed animal massacre too - with Mickey Mouse and Tigger thrown in separate corners of his room. And there he was, his mattress on the floor, sacked out on top of it. I figured, well, he's asleep, we'll "rebuild" his room in the morning. That came sooner than I wanted.

At 3 am we begin hearing screaming. When I got upstairs, he was no longer on his mattress. He had rolled off onto the floor and managed to wedge himself UNDER his bed, and couldn't get out! Since he had pulled his mattress and bedskirt off, he was underneath the wire frame, holding onto it like jail bars and crying because he couldn't get out. "I wanna go with YOU!!!"

I never thought I'd have to get my two year old out of jail at 3 am, but there's a first time for everything.

Weekend at last!

Ahhhhh.....

How great it feels to be in my jammies, cup of coffee in hand this morning. NORMAL!!! Even the ginormous pile of laundry isn't dampening my mood right now.

I've talked with many of my co-workers over the past week to get an idea of what others are experiencing since Ike came through town and wreaked havoc. One employee saw someone get a knife pulled on them at a gas station, and another saw a fist fight in a grocery store. A majority still do not have power. I heard some that said they had a rowdy hurricane party! He said they even had the garage door open to watch the wind tear everything up. I told him he was crazy - but I think he took it as a compliment. Many said they had trees fall on their houses, some had roof damage, ranging from a few shingles missing to some sections torn completely off. And probably most distressing was hearing one tell about how she had evacuated only to come home and find that not only had her house been torn apart by the storm, but it had also been looted. That just makes me sick! Again, we feel so lucky, and we're very grateful.

Okay, so this is a little embarrassing, but I jammed or sprained my toe the night that Ike came through. How? Well, I had to get up out of bed that Friday night, and as I stepped out, Heidi happened to be right there. But the momentum was downward and I tried to avoid squashing her and landed awkwardly on my fourth toe on my left foot. Typically this wouldn't be a big deal, but with running and gunning all week, I think I've made it worse. It's so swollen up and painful, even a week later! Mike is calling me "Gimpy". Several of my co-workers have noticed my slight limp, and when they ask me what happened, I've been giving a myriad of colorful stories that sound much cooler than what actually happened. It's been a running joke at work this week!

My mother and Troy were gracious to keep Julia and Hayden for us beginning Tuesday night since school was out. So since then, Mike and I have experienced what it would be like to have one child. We think Brandon has enjoyed it too. Most evenings, he would sit right between us on the couch and just hang out quietly. So since my mother brought Julia and Hayden back yesterday, quiet time is obviously over.

Today, I'm attacking my mountain of laundry, and Mike is cleaning up the yard. Mundane stuff never sounded so good.

Survivor Guilt...

I should be happy to say that things are pretty much back to normal for us, but the words get stuck in my throat!

Now, don't get me wrong. I'm counting my lucky stars that my gorgeous family is safe and sound, and that my house stood up to Ike and said "keep moving, Mister". And that we were less than 24 hours without power.

My opening line only reflects a realization that there are thousands all around us who will not experience normalcy for some time now. It's really sobering to read how people are really suffering right now. My sister, Michelle, for one!

In any case, yes, things are somewhat normal for us. School was cancelled for the remainder of this week, so Julia and Hayden are in The Woodlands with my mother since Mike and I had to go back to work. Brandon's tuition was paid at daycare, so YOUBETCHA he's back at his school this week.

Again, thanks to all who read my blog and leave me comments. I look forward to them.

Ike Update

We survived!

Ike was bad, but we were very lucky. No damage to our house, and just two minor issues with our fence.

The winds started really picking up around 10pm on Friday night, and by midnight, we had lost power. The kids were all in our bedroom. Brandon was in his portable crib, Hayden was between us, and Julia was spread out across the bed at our feet. This was fine when the AC was on, but once it started heating up, it wasn’t pleasant.

I ended up on the couch. Kudos to my well built house! It didn’t shake, rattle or creak one time. The plywood on the back of the house was ideal, as that’s directly where the wind was coming from. There were some real hard gusts of wind, several of which woke me up in a panic. Luckily, the kids slept through all of it. I was really worried about Hayden. But even when we all got up around 6:30 or so, he didn’t seem too freaked out about it. We lit candles and they had cereal.

We started out looking out of the windows that were not boarded up to see the damage in our neighborhood. We spotted our fence areas, and we saw another house with some significant roof damage. When we looked out another window, we saw shingles all over our front yard. Alarmed by this, Mike ran outside in the wind and rain and did a quick circle of our house to see if they were ours. Thankfully, they were not.

The winds were gone by about 10am, and we ventured outside to walk down the street. We saw the same things over and over: knocked down fences, some roof damage, broken limbs, some big, some small.

Listening to the radio all day, it was quite upsetting to hear that power was out to nearly all of the Houston area, and their estimate was that it would take 2 to 4 weeks to restore it! Hello? Houston is the fourth largest city in the US and a major energy city. Like Houston Mayor Bill White said, that’s completely unacceptable. He called for immediate federal assistance. What I don’t understand about this is that for a week, we knew this storm was coming, that it was probably going to hit the Texas Gulf Coast. Why were teams not pre-positioned? Why was Federal Assistance not at the ready? One caller into the radio station said just this, and was “put in place” by the radio announcer who said they were doing the best they could. I’m sure they were, but he totally missed the point.\

Even more frustrating was knowing that my friend, Anthony (who I also work with) living just across the road in an adjacent subdivision a quarter mile away, had only lost power for an hour. AN HOUR.

We took a drive in the afternoon, mainly to enjoy some AC in the car for a while, but also to see the damage throughout New Territory. Mike and I noted that none of the power lines were down or snapped. And we saw not ONE single Reliant energy truck, car or van out and about. This was late in the afternoon, well after winds had subsided.

We stopped by to check on my Aunt Di. Becky and her twin boys were staying with her. They didn’t have power either. We made a deal to call each other when we got power, and we’d migrate either way!

By 8pm we were all on each other’s nerves. The kids were absolutely stir crazy and cranky from being hot all day. We enforced an early bedtime in the living room, with pallets on the floor for the kids. Mike and I removed the plywood from the back of the house (by hand screwdrivers!!!!) so that we could open the windows. It really didn’t make a difference though, because there was no breeze at all. I gave each of the kids a wet washrag to try and cool off, and I was sitting and fanning each of them for a while.

I think Mike and I were both at the point of thinking what an awful night this was going to be, when VOILA!!! The power jump-started! Brandon and I did a happy dance! SLAM! Windows were shut, fans cranked up to help cool down and we were all snoozing happily an hour later.

My mother, Michael’s parents and his brother and sister still do not have power as of 9am today. His brother’s house has a bit of roof damage with some leaking into the house. They lost their entire back fence. Michael’s parents had not damage other than a tree down in the front yard. My mother did not have any damage at her house.

We realize that we were very lucky. Mainly that we were all safe during this really bad storm, but also that life will resume to day normally for us. We can’t get satellite yet, so we still haven’t seen what the rest of our city has encountered.

Thanks to my cousin Dawnie for leaving me a comment and wishing us well.

Waiting for Ike

After 25 years, I suppose it's time for Houston and the surrounding areas to finally have a major hurricane.

Yesterday was a very interesting day at work. We moved 77 cars inside our showroom, another 120 or so into the shop and Make Ready buildings, and then moved another 70 cars to a parking garage close to the dealership (I negotiated the contract!). I took a picture with my phone, but it's new technology, and I can't figure out how to send it to myself, otherwise, I'd post it here. I should have known it was going to be a unique week when Monday morning, a lady drove her car through our windows and ended up three feet into the smart Center showroom. Again, I have a picture but...well, you know the rest! Amazingly, the entire area was repaired the same day. Our building contractor ROCKS!! Anyway, Ken closed the dealership at 11 AM yesterday. While most employees left right then, several great employees mobilized, stayed after 11 and secured our building and inventory. We'll be closed until Monday. I'm expecting to work on Sunday to go help move everything out once the winds go away. Since we're not in a surge area, we don't expect any type of significant flooding.

Right now, Ike shows to be headed straight through the heart of Harris County, making landfall in Galveston. We're happy to be in western Fort Bend County, and thus far, not on the "dirty" side of Ike.

We're not particularly happy that Michael's parents have decided to stay in a storm surge area in a non-brick house and ride out the storm. We would feel much better if they would come and stay with us, or Michael's brother, James, in the Pearland area. My mother is in The Woodlands with my grandparents, and my dad lives in San Antonio, so they're going to be okay.

This morning, Michael boarded up the back of the house, which house the biggest windows. The windows face east, where we expect to have the strongest winds. Hayden did NOT like this, and as Michael covered each window, he closed the blinds over them so he didn't have to see it.

He and Julia both are very nervous about the storm. Historically, Hayden is terrified of thunder and lightning, so it will be a wonder if he comes out from under the bed over the next couple of weeks. This was considered when we were deciding whether or not to go to San Antonio. But honestly, after it took us over 9 hours to get to SA with Rita, we decided it would be better just to stay. Besides, the only reason we left for Rita was because I was pregnant and VERY hormonal. I have more of a sense of humor about it this time.

After he finished, all we do now is wait. Well, that and finish all of the laundry and dishes. But we'll find something to pass the time. Like playing Wii Fit. Michael is addicted. Here he is doing some yoga right now with a couple of helpers...

We actually had Hayden's first baseball practice last night. Not all of the team showed up, but we expected that. We had 5 out of the 8 on the team, so that is a good turnout! What was hilarious was when it began drizzling, all of the kids yelled "Oh no! The hurricane!" Very funny. After practice, we all decided to go to dinner together, and there were 20 of us at Joe's Crab Shack. We had a really nice time and seem to have a great team together, both kids and parents. Hayden's team this year is the Louisville Bats. I'll post his schedule on the blog soon, so please try to come and make a game this year. The coaching staff is very cute, if that's an incentive at all!

I'll try to update my blog after the storm. Of course, it will depend on if we lose power, and how long we are without it. Leave me your comments... I love them!

Busy week, busy tropics, busy campaign!

Wow. What a crazy time lately!

We're two weeks into school and it feels like an eternity already. Julia, for the most part, is sailing smoothly with her new schedule. She loves her teacher - raves about her all of the time. So far, she has brought home all A's with her work, and homework is requiring minimal supervision. It's so strange to see how she is coming into her "tween" years! She's keenly aware of what she wears, and takes extra time with brushing and fixing her hair in the mornings. Oh, and she's also commenting on how I "embarrass her" when I sing loudly in the car!

Since I do have a tween now, you can imagine my anxiety level as she begins to be aware of the culture around her. I already boycott Macy's as far as buying her clothes after spotting a tee-shirt in the Junior department that boldly stated "By Boyfriend Thinks He's My First". WTF??? And the majority of you know how I feel about Bratz dolls - hello? All of this coupled with the fact that she has an admirer in her class who "asks me questions about myself all the time", it's time to do my homework.

I saw an article on this book and picked it up yesterday. Mike and I have a book project together.

I don't know about you, but I find it incredibly sad that we have to arm ourselves with things like this. What are people thinking half of the time, anyway??

Hayden has adjusted to his new schedule as well. I think that for a couple of days, he felt the need to "test the waters" a bit, and see how much of his bunk his new teachers are going to put up with. I think he's discovered, not much. Mom and Dad aren't putting up with it either, and he really dislikes writing sentences for us in the evening. But he's figuring it out, and is doing much better. I will be going to a meeting next week to determine if I need to recommend him for the school district's Gifted and Talented program. I'm looking forward to finding out where he is.

Brandon is going with the flow for the most part, although he seems to be struggling with his new schedule without Hayden. The littlest things seems to send him into hysterics. And potty training on top of it may be adding to the stress.

So how about Governer Palin, huh? Wow, so very refreshing to see a REAL Conservative on the ticket for a change! Her speech was just amazing! I saw the second half of Rudy Guiliani's as well and absolutely loved when he pointed his finger and said "Shame on you!" to the media for questioning her ability to have a job and be a mother. Amen. I've had my share of comments and looks about choosing to be a working mother, and it was great to be validated on a national platform.

Sigh... and then there's Ike. I spend every spare minute on the Chronicle's website reading Eric Berger's blog about where these storms are headed. Ike is planning to take residence in the Gulf for a while and make us all nervous again.

Thanks everyone for your comments on my blog! Keep em' coming!

Nice long weekend...hopefully!

While keeping a watchful eye on Gustav, we started our weekend on Friday with this great picture:

The kids had done a great job of moving and shaking that morning, so we were actually ahead of schedule. They had a few minutes to enjoy Playhouse Disney before we hit the door, and I thought it was just so cute!

Saturday, Nina and Paw Paw came to pick up the kids and take them to lunch. Julia returned to help me hostess my Tastefully Simple party while the boys enjoyed the zoo. Michael did more stellar work in the backyard. It's a shame we can't win a landscape award for it - it looks really nice. I'm waiting to take a picture when he's all done, and then I can publish a before/after scenario.

Today (Sunday) we went to Minute Maid park and saw the Astos wup the Cardinals! Was great to see Puhols get a strikeout in person! I really think he could hear my cheering! Truth be told, I would have booed Lidge if he were there, too! Several of us from Mercedes-Benz were there today. The kids seemed to be enjoying the game, as you can see here:

And then, of course, there's this....

So now that you've been thouroughly entertained, I hope everyone has a great Labor Day weekend. Here's hoping Gustav flirts more with Louisina than Texas, otherwise I get to work on Monday and move as many cars as possible into the showroom at Mercedes-Benz of Sugar Land!

School Days, School Days!

It finally arrived!

We have a third grader, and another Kindergartner!

After a harrowing night with poor Brandon howling in pain from... gas? Who knows. Whatever it was, it kept him in tears and Mommy and Daddy pretty darn close to tears as well. He would settle down and go back to sleep, but 30 to 45 minutes later, he was up crying and searching for Mommy to lay down - as in, lay down on top of me. He's heavy and he's hot, so you can imagine how comfortable that was for me. This began at midnight.

Nevertheless, I plugged in my beloved iPod and blasted "Ob La Dee, Ob La Da" (one of Hayden's favorites) and he was downstairs in no time, shrieking "KINDERGARTEN! KINDERGARTEN!!" Julia followed shortly, and a cheerful Brandon tagged along, fresh out of my bed. (Stinker.)

Breakfast, brushed teeth and hair, freshly washed faces and some really cute new clothes later, I had three excited kids ready for school. Okay, so you're asking, why was Brandon excited? Well, Sunday I found one of Hayden's old backpacks, and he agreed to graduate it to Brandon. We filled it with new big boy underwear and clean shorts, and he was excited to have a backpack just like the big kids!

Brandon did really well considering it was his first time ever walking into preschool without Hayden. He was a real trooper. Of course, the days that I don't forget his banana are always easy, so we'll see how it goes when I forget to buy more at the grocery store. He was a big boy and said good bye to Julia and Hayden, and he went to class.

Once we arrived at Brazos Bend, we found a great parking space really close to the school and unloaded. As we were walking in, I realized Hayden's shorts were on backward! (If you look closely, you can see it in the picture above!) Not willing to send my child into the kindergarten bull pit as the butt of every joke, I dragged him back to the truck, stripped him down and corrected the problem.

Julia was sweet and told Hayden how handsome he was, and commented that the girls were really going to like him in Kindergarten. I wish I had a picture of his expression, but the best sum of it is, "yeah, I know." (I guess it would be considered a bit egotistical, but I DO admire his confidence!)

Julia and I walked Hayden to Mrs. Wienken's class, where, since I am SO seasoned, now, I know to hug, kiss and skedaddle. So I did. At that point, Julia hugged her pesky little bro - and requested a kiss. Again, the expression was priceless. You've got to be kidding me?! Another dad in the room overheard and began to laugh. I said "Nope, sister is not getting a kiss today!"

At that point, Julia and I took a quick visit to get a hug from Mrs. McCrory (2nd Grade) and always precious Miss Bargas (Kindergarten), then it was time for my big third grader to go off to Miss Lubojasky's.

We've had a great experience at Brazos Bend Elementary over the past three years, so I have no reason to assume this year will be any different. We're excited to have our school year off to such a great start!

My kids are FUNNY!

I thought I would share a couple of things about my kids that keep me cracking up...

My Son Likes His Name

Dang he's cute, isn't he?

Mike and I spent a lot of time picking out names for our children. From the horror story of my own father thinking "Dodi Debrelle" was a pretty name for me, to my mother saying "whatever" when my dad suggested "Lynn Marie" (...after I was born, mind you...) I really place a value on a good, well-thought out name. After all, it's something that people will form an opinion of without ever seeing a face to go with it.

It's amazing how trendy names are nowadays. You can guess the decade some people were born in based on their name. I always shake my head in amazement at the names people bestow on their kids - don't they realize one day that name will be printed on a business card in an effort to appear professional?

And let's not get started on celebrities. (Although I do kind of like Sunday Rose. Elegant.)

First, we had to make sure that Mike knew of no other "Hayden" who was a jerk. And of course, there was the Star Wars factor... Once those hurdles were cleared, Hayden Scott came to be.

There is another boy in Hayden's class with the same name. (Thank goodness there are no girls named Hayden - that just really cheeses me off! I won't watch Heroes because it bugs me that the girl in the show is named Hayden!!! IT'S NOT A GIRL'S NAME FOR PETE'S SAKE!!!!)

One night at dinner, Hayden said "You know, Mom, you and Hayden A.'s mom did a good job naming us."

Thank you, my son. Dodi Debrelle.... are you kidding?

What Are They Teaching Him?

Friday after work, I was changing clothes in my closet when Brandon walks in. He's made a sport of poking me in the stomach when I change clothes. It's like he KNOWS what he did to my stomach and has to admire his work...

But instead of poking me on Friday, he calmly and clearly said...

"Show me your nuts."

HUH? I was certain I didn't hear him right. "What did you say?"

"Show me your nuts."

Now, often he will say something to me, and just because he doesn't pronounce it correctly doesn't mean he hears it in his head that way. So I will always repeat back what he said according to what I hear, and if I say it back wrong, he'll correct me. Thinking surely, he isn't trying to say "nuts", I said "My nuts?" He nodded. "Where are my nuts?"

He points at my chest.

Now, naturally, his father thinks this is hilarious, but I'm wondering...WHAT THE HELL IS HE LEARNING AT SCHOOL?????

Rain, rain, come and stay!

It's raining like crazy today! Rain outside always makes me ready for a good nap... but I'm happy it's raining today because all of our new plants in the backyard are in ecstasy right now. I'm really busy here at work today with several new hires and half of the management team's travel itineraries! I really love days like this. All of my favorite music on my iPod in the background, my pretty flowers from my sweetie to celebrate our 14th anniversary last week. Life is good.

My sweet husband spent the better part of this past weekend outside in the Texas August sun landscaping our backyard. I swear there is no limit to his talent! The work he finished up yesterday is on par with a professional landscaper! Of course Hayden and Brandon were on hand to help. Hayden had fun using the shovel and helping Dad shovel in the mulch. Heidi was just happy everyone was outside with her.

Man! What about Michael Phelps!?!

Hayden was quite excited this morning as he started his last week with Kids R Kids. I told him to make sure that he behaves himself, or else Ms. Sylvia will be glad he's gone instead of missing him. She told me she was really going to miss Hayden. He tries so hard to crack her up, and usually succeeds.

Julia and Hayden's letters came over the weekend to announce their teachers for the year. All summer long, Julia has wished for Ms. Lubojosky, and it was granted! I called her Saturday night while she was in San Francisco to tell her, and she was elated. She's also excited about starting Drama Kids again. She really thrives there.

Hayden's teacher will be Ms. Wienken, who Ms. Lubojosky tells me is a good friend of hers, and a really good teacher. She has taught third and fourth grade for a number of years, which I think is going to be good for Hayden. Mike and I were talking about how the teachers aren't going to know what hit them. Hurricane Hayden is getting ready to make landfall! He will be starting Fall Ball again with West Sugar Land Little League this August, and Dad will coach hopefully.

Thursday is a big day. It's the official Kindergarten Meet the Teacher Day! Third grade will be on Friday, but we're going to miss it because our girl will still be gone. I've just about finished gathering all of their supplies, and now that I know both teachers name, I can label everything. Does anyone else remember how exciting is was to have a brand new box of crayons? New scissors, new glue, a new ruler, new shoes, a cool new lunchbox? Sigh....

So funny. This morning on the way to school, Hayden and I were talking about the big, exciting things coming up and a little voice says "What about me?" I think Brandon is going to have a very hard time once Hayden leaves Kids R Kids. Poor kiddo, his RSV has flared up again and he's been on the nebulizer all weekend. One of the common results is that he loses his voice! He started losing it last night, and this morning it was barely a squeak. It was so pitifully cute this morning as I was calling up to him to come down to breakfast and I hear "Good morning Mommy" in this squeaky voice!

So that coupled with no Julia means our house is REALLY quiet! I spoke to her briefly this morning and she's having lots of fun. Dad (Jim) says she and cousin Brooke are inseparable. Yesterday they apparently "saw the city" and Julia says it's beautiful. Today they were planning to go swimming. That kid is going to be exhausted by the time she gets home on Saturday.

Thank goodness it's Friday - I think...

Friday, payday... these are good things unless you're anxious about your firstborn being put in a steel tube and hurtling through the air without you later on in the day.

Julia leaves with her grandparents for San Francisco today. And she's so very excited and not even the least bit homesick yet. She had fun with Uncle James and Aunt Mandy and fun also with Aunt Chelle this week. She played with her friends Kate and Erin and went to Chuck E Cheese and an indoor bounce playground. With Chelle, she had a manicure and a pedicure, baked brownies, watched movies and went to Incredible Pizza.

I miss her. It's so oddly quiet at our house in the evenings, even though we still have 2 and 5 year old boys running around! I will get to see her for a little bit today since Mike's dad is bringing her over to have lunch with us. My mother and a good friend of mine is joining as well. Several people have suggested that I see her off at the airport this evening, but given that I'd be in hysterics, I don't think that's such a good idea. I'll be counting the days until I have all of my chicks in my nest again.

Missing my girl...

Julia left yesterday for 12 days, and Mommy's not handling it well...

She's going to spend a couple of days with her Godparents, James and Mandy, and then it's two more fun days with Aunt Chelle. I think Michelle said they're getting manicures, so she'll be all over that! And then Friday, my firstborn will board a plane with Grandma and Grandpa Masters and fly to San Francisco and stay until next Saturday!

She was SO excited, she could barely contain herself. She came to work with me Monday morning until Mandy picked her up at lunchtime. She is so much like my mother sometimes, she just has the easiest time talking to people. Some of my co-workers would come by and talk to her and she would just talk as though they were the best of friends. She really impressed Bernice (my boss) who hadn't really seen her in a while. Bernice said she was "effervescent" and had a quality about her. Bernice said she might be "discovered" in California. I would not be shocked one bit.

So yes, like the big blubbering baby I am when it comes to my kids, I cried when they drove away. It was very quiet last night at our house.

Tomorrow my sweet husband and I are celebrating 14 years of wedded bliss! So far, we're planning to have lunch together. And... I think that's it? Fine with me. I'm fortunate to spend 365 lucky days with the best person I've ever known, so I don't need wine, roses or jewelry to remind me of it.

Not only are we proud of being married 14 years and still fairly nuts about each other, but we're also celebrating our 20th year of togetherness. We met at good old Sam Rayburn high school where I had to stalk him for a couple of months, starting in August of 1988 (summer band!) before he finally got the guts to ask me to homecoming. Good grief, I gave him every signal in the book, I always thought guys looked for and acted upon them. I guess that just means my man is unique. I sure am glad I'm patient.

And for fun, here's Halloween picture of us during one of our high school football games in '89. I just love this picture. Happy Anniversary Honey!! (he's gonna kill me for this...)

Uh Oh! I'm Getting Creative!

So it took a few bad words during the process, but I've managed to add "cuteness" to my blog page. The one thing that's making me nearly homicidal is the fact that I can't add figure out how to add the comments element at the end of each post - one of the things I wanted the most! (If anyone knows what I'm doing wrong, please let me know.)

Big news this morning. Julia is going to San Francisco the week after next with her Grandma and Grandpa to spend a week with cousins Brooke and Bradley! We haven't told her yet, so when you hear the inevitable sonic boom, it's either Julia's excitement over her upcoming trip, or Hayden's rage over not getting to go along....

51 Things About The Masters

I asked Dawn for permission before I stole her idea.

Here are a few things you may or may not know about us....

1. We love everything Disney!
2. Julia is in Drama Kids - and loves it.
3. Mike likes to go shopping. He's a keeper.
4. All of my kids bring their plates to the kitchen counter after they are finished eating.
5. Brandon is our only toddler that ever tried to escape from his crib.
6. Hayden is only 5, but reads at a third grade level.
7. All of my babies had a full head of black hair when they were born. I love hairy babies!
8. Mike sent me an email the other day just to say he loves me.
9. We have been together for 20 years and married 14 years this month.
10. Our dog, Heidi, stays in the house and in her spot while we are gone during the day. She's a good dog.
11. Julia learned to swim without floaties this summer and can jump from the diving board and swim to the side by herself.
12. Hayden only jumped off of the diving board once. He's all done now.
13. Brandon jumped off over and over, and unlike the other two, never hesitated his first time.
14. My favorite groups are Keane and The Shins. Mike likes Pearl Jam, The White Stripes, and The Shins.
15. The kids love Star Wars, just like Daddy.
16. Brandon loves his new shoes.
17. The boys are upstairs playing really good together right now. That might change before the end of this post.
18. Julia is sitting beside me reading her "American Girl" magazine.
19. My goddaughter, Kate, just turned 9 years old.
20. Mike and I are conservatives!
21. I like my job. My 5 year anniversary at Mercedes-Benz of Sugar Land is tomorrow!
22. Daddy and the boys are now playing "Down, Set, Hut!", where they try to push him over.
23. Daddy almost doesn't have to "let them win" anymore. They're getting pretty good!
24. I've already started working on my Christmas cards.
25. I love my iPod!
26. Mike and I watched "John Adams" on DVD and we both highly recommend it.
27. Brandon is funny. He's cute, too.
28. My mother is the top salesperson at her company.
29. The church we were married in turned 100 years old the year of our wedding.
30. Mike and I are the only couple still married out of all of his college friends.
31. I love foreign accents. Especially Scottish.....
32. Brandon just came to sit next to me.
33. Julia will be 9 years old in November. Wow....
34. Michael likes to watch "The Ultimate Trailer Show". It's just trailers for upcoming movies.
35. We loved the "Harry Potter" book series.
36. I think Mike gets cuter the older he gets.
37. Mike made dinner. Chicken and spinach ravioli with alfredo sauce. Mmmmm...
38. We got remarried by Elvis in Las Vegas for our 10th Wedding Anniversary.
39. Hayden has gorgeous eyes.
40. Samantha, our cat, is 17 years old.
41. Julia likes to play dress up. Yesterday she dressed up her baby brother, too.
42. Ask Julia about the Dixie Chicks, and she'll tell you they hate America.
43. Mike can't wait for football season. I love him enough to try and follow the season with him this year.
44. Julia and Hayden love Metallica.
45. I like to take pictures. If I ever went back to school, it would probably be for photography.
46. Rosie O'Donnell gets on my nerves.
47. My sister Michelle teaches at my old high school, Sam Rayburn.
48. Mike is a manager at Memorial Hermann's Wellness Center, and his staff are all women.
49. We're glad we only have to potty train one more child!
50. Just like I predicted, the boys aren't playing so good anymore....
51. I have an awesome husband and fantastic kids. I'm blessed!

Julia's Summer Talent Show

Julia's last week of summer at Walker Station's Extended Day Program is next week. Today, I was fortunate enough to get to see the talent show they put on for all of the parents.

First up was a group dance of the "Cha Cha Slide". Here's a sample for you:

The video of her comedic routine was much too long and would not load, but she and another girl did a stand up skit with some very G-rated jokes. Cute.

After the show, she was happy to show me some of her artwork.

Don't watch "Fear Itself"!

I did something really stupid last night. I was in bed, flipping channels, and came across "Fear Itself" on NBC (not cable!) at 9:30.

Look, I'm a chicken when it comes to scary movies, so I kept telling myself to change the channel, but I couldn't. I had to see what happened next. And it was CREEPY! This guy was possessed and he was so scary. He's the same guy who ate kids in that awful "Pan's Labrynth" movie that Mike dragged me to last year!

So I had to go check on the kids once it was over and I turned on every light up the stairs. Upon returning to bed, I had to jump into bed from 4 feet away because of that age old fear of the "monster under the bed" grabbing my feet!

Mike thought this was particularly amusing.

Everyone seemed happy it was Friday this morning except for Brandon. He was very cranky that today wasn't his Splash Day and was determined to make everyone else just as cranky.

I hope you all have a great weekend! My mother and Troy are taking the kids overnight Saturday so Mike and I have DATE NITE!!!!

My first blog!

Okay, I'm new at this, so please don't snicker at my amateur page, okay? I barely have enough time to brush my teeth each day, so taking the time to figure out how to make things cute, much less informative is a stretch - at least for now!

So... a blog? Okay, well, here goes.

School starts in exactly 25 days. That means all of a sudden, two of my offspring are in school. How I'm old enough for that to happen is beyond me. Julia tells me she is very excited about school starting, and can't wait, but I think it has more to do with showing Hayden the ropes more than anything.

I've told her to enjoy her summer, which seems to be pretty fun! Since she's in the district's after school program, she can participate in their summer program. It's half the cost of private daycare, and I'm sure she thinks it's much cooler. Pish... daycare? They do all kinds of fun things like art, talent shows, cooking projects, swimming, field trips...etc. She's gone to a Comets game, an Astros game, the movies, Moody Gardens and more. So if I had to gripe about something, I suppose it would be that I have to make her lunch every day - just like school! Oh, and the fact that they are required to bring cash on each weekly field trip - today I had to stop at the bank and get her $15!!!!

Small gripes for such a good trade off...

She's also managed to sneak a couple of days off from her regular routine to hang out with her best friend, Megan. Lots of swimming and last week, a trip to the circus!

Hayden is very excited about school. And I'm excited he'll be starting the Extended Day program after school as well. He is so over Kids R Kids at this point. He just has a couple of weeks left - and he knows it. He's tricked out in some snazzy polos and cargo pants, his new baseball lunchbox and his Star Wars Clone Wars backpack. All he needs are shoes, and my baby is officially a Kindergartner! SOB! No, smile (saving money in daycare!!!) NO!!!! SOB!!! MY BABY IS GROWING UP!!!!!

I think Brandon is going to have a very hard time watching the two bigger kids wait at the bus stop each day while he has to go to KRK. And Splash Day ends when school starts... oh man, I just now realized that!!!!

So that's what's buzzing in our house. School, school, school. We'll keep you posted!! Maybe by then I'll have more fun stuff to look at....