COUNSELLER FAMILY BLOG

Christmas 2011

2012-01-02T11:08:00.001-06:00

We celebrated our first Christmas in our new house. Here's our tree...

The kids got everything they wanted and more.

After Christmas we travelled to Houston to celebrate with the Counseller clan.

And before Christmas, we spent time with the Owens Clan.

Christmas 2011 was a great success!

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Refinished, Not Replaced

2011-04-07T10:56:00.001-05:00

Our realtor suggested we have our seventies blue cultured marble counter tops replaced? Why?, we asked. They are so hip and cool and modern! Then we came to our senses and called Miracle Method to refinish these old, tired tops.

Before:

And after:

Pretty good for a quick fix!!

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Children and Control

2011-03-29T20:54:00.001-05:00

As a parent, I know that part of my job is to allow my children to fail. But I have a confession - I suck at this! I find it is easier to do it myself or "help" them do the assigned task. Tonight, I was helping Jack with his poster board, which is part of a history assignment. I made a mental note "Let him do this himself, DO NOT take over!". But I found myself, cringing with every "mistake" and misstep. I slowly began suggesting layout, critiquing content, and judging form. I suggested this and that. Finally, I decided to walk away. I gave him my last two very valuable cents, pushed in my chair, and went to the kitchen. One part of me, wants to get hold of that poster and do it myself while he sleeps. The other part screams at me to allow him to do it himself -mistakes and all. I don't remember my parents doing this to me. I remember having my own vision and then doing it myself. So where did I get this need to control my children's actions? Is this a normal part of parenthood? Or should I just blame it on my first born birth order? Whichever it may be, I must overcome it.

So, tomorrow when my oldest sits down to finish his project, I promise to walk away and only provide input when asked. Right after I instruct him on how to back the pictures with colored construction paper to make them "pop" on the stark white poster board.......

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Dear Blog

2011-03-29T11:04:00.001-05:00

Dear Blog,
I must apologize for neglecting you for the past month. Though I have good intentions to update you and add to you, I often lack the follow through. We have had a lot going on since we last chatted. We put our house on the market - I know - FINALLY! We've only been talking about doing it for the last three years! Also, our little Katie Bug turned 3!! And she is all potty trained which is more exciting for me than her. I know other things have happened, but I just can't remember what right now. Seems like this list shouldn't excuse my lack of visiting, but it has. But today, I am recommitting myself to blogging. More posts, more often and new pictures.
Please accept my most sincere apology.

- ME

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Spring Break 2011

2011-03-29T10:49:00.002-05:00

We spent most of spring break hanging around the house waiting on different work guys to finish projects around our house. When the work was completed, we decided to take a day trip. We loaded up and headed to the natural bridge caverns and wildlife ranch.

Loaded up and ready to go.

First stop: wildlife ranch. We checked out the petting zoo first.

Next it was time to get in the car and drive through the ranch. This is the first guy we came across.
He had really weird orange eyes. These guys come right up to your car where you can feed them.

Our favorite animal was the ostrich. He was quite persistent. We opened our sun roof and he stuck his head in to get the food.

Kate called him a dinosaur.

Next up, zebras!

At the end of ranch, we met some llamas, who were quite friendly.

After the ranch, we headed to the caves for a little exploring.

We enjoyed our day trip and hope to take more in the future.

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Happy First Birthday, Ava

2011-02-16T07:24:00.001-06:00

Today, my beautiful niece, Ava turns one!
Happy birthday, Ava. Hope you have a perfect day.

Hugs and Kisses,

Aunt Jennifer, Uncle Jeremy, Jack, Brett and Kate

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A Shout Out

2011-02-12T16:45:00.001-06:00

Ms. Dougherty's photography

This is Jack's art teacher's photography website. Thought I should give her a plug after using her beautiful photos on my blog!

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The Palace of Versailles

2011-02-12T16:35:00.001-06:00

Jack's role in this year's history faire was as an observer of the palace of Versailles. He had to tell about the Palace to anyone who wanted to hear, think living museum.

This picture was taken by his art teacher. She's a photographer in case you couldn't tell!

This one I took, see the difference??

Here's another one taken by his art teacher.

So adorable. I love these pictures!

Kate hopped up on root beer and cotton candy. Watch out Live Oak, here she comes! Just one more year and she's all yours!!

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Home Improvement

2011-02-11T22:12:00.002-06:00

It's time for us to do a few things to fix up our house. We have been very busy with home improvement.
This is some of what we have done.

We have painted our entry hall, dining room, living room, kitchen, half-bath, and hallway.

We installed new lighting in our hallways and dining room.

We had our carpets cleaned. We had our dishwasher fixed. We've been cleaning out closets, cabinets, pantries, and drawers.

Busy bees are we.

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Snow Storm In Texas

2011-02-11T22:01:00.001-06:00

We have had a couple of unusually cold weeks here in Waco, Texas. We missed two days of school last week due to SNOW! And we had one day of sleet and snow this week.

This is my backyard! Crazy!!
The kids enjoyed their snow day. And I learned that I am thankful not to live in a place where this is common. I don't know how moms keep up with wet gloves, snowy muddy boots, snow suits, and hats! I don't have a spot in my house to put these things. I am happy that I deal with flip flops and blistering hot leather seats more often than snow boots and gloves.

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B-ball and Brett

2011-02-11T21:53:00.001-06:00

Brett is playing on a basketball team for kindergarten and first grade. I had serious doubts about her, or any six year old's ability, to play this sport. And I have been proven wrong! I have had more fun watching her team play than any other team sport we have participated in so far.

These girls are ferocious. They hustle. They make baskets. And they are great on defense. I have been both impressed and entertained by their performances.
Next week is her last game of the season. I will be sad to see the end and will look forward to next year's season!

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Fun with Friends

2011-02-11T16:53:00.001-06:00

The day after Christmas our good friends came to visit.

Jeremy, Justin and Chris have been "best friends" since high school.

And when they all get together they act 18. They are trouble!! How's that venison jerky, guys?

Kara, Justin's wife, and I just try to put on a happy face while we deal with their childish antics!

Justin and Jeremy trying to stay warm by the chimeneas outside. Aren't they so adorable?!

Chris, who normally resides abroad, was back in the states for a visit. We are all looking forward to him finishing his Ph.D and moving back to the states.
A good time was had by all. We look forward to visiting with them again soon.
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Christmas 2010, 2 Months Late

2011-02-11T16:22:00.001-06:00

It appears, according to my outdated blog, that the Counsellers did not celebrate Christmas in 2010. We DID indeed celebrate. I have just fallen off the blogging wagon and have not recorded it. So here it is:
CHRISTMAS 2010

We returned from Houston on Christmas Eve. In time for a little dinner and a our Christmas Eve present opening. Though we were too late to catch our Christmas Candlelight Service at church.

Christmas cookies, carrots, and egg nog for Santa and his reindeer.

Getting ready for Twas the Night Before Christmas and BEDTIME!!

What did Santa bring my kids for Christmas, you may ask. EVERYTHING!!! They are so terribly spoiled.

We were alone on Christmas. We had a traditional Christmas Dinner complete with Bread Pudding.

Oh did I mention what I got for Christmas from the best husband in the WHOLE WIDE WORLD??

An iPad!!! I was so excited. I love this new little gadget. Especially now that I know how to blog from it!!

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Thomasina Jefferson

2011-02-11T13:39:00.001-06:00

Brett was selected to be the narrator in her class play, Eagles Over The Battlefield. But at the last minute due to weather and the absence of a classmate, she was asked to abandon her role as narrator and take on the role of Thomas Jefferson. After a little convincing, she decided she would shed her prairie dress for a white wig and trousers.

She is the cutest Thomas Jefferson, that I have ever seen!

Brett and her classmates did such a fabulous job!

I was proud to be the mother of that adorable Thomasina Jefferson that night!!

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Location:Waco

She's Got Style

2011-02-11T12:04:00.001-06:00

This is Kate painting at school. What's up with this hat? Maybe she feels more creative wearing it!

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Location:Waco

Carpet cleaning

2010-12-28T22:20:00.001-06:00

My carpets will be cleaned today. It looks like we are moving out. Feels like it too! Stuff misplaced everywhere.
Hopefully, it will be worth it. I should take before and after pictures, but I am too embarrassed to show the before pics!

Location:Waco

Family

2010-12-28T11:18:00.000-06:00

We visited with all our favorite loved ones while we were in Houston.

Jeremy and his grandmother, Nanaw.

Jack and his cousin, Ben.

Aunt Leslie, Jeremy's sister.

Cousin Blake, the baby of the family.

Cousin Brooke and Brett.

Cousin Maya, Lindsay and Jeff's baby.

Brett and Emily, not technically related. Emily is married to Lindsay's brother, Ryan.

Cousin Ava. Uncle Tony and Aunt Amber's beautiful baby girl. We really enjoyed getting to spend time with her!

Cousins. So cute. Can you see the resemblance?

So much family, so little time. We were happy that we were able to see everyone, even if for a short time.

Baking With Aunt Lindsay

2010-12-28T10:44:00.000-06:00

Prior to Christmas, we headed to Houston to celebrate with the Counseller Clan. Aunt Lindsay and Uncle Jeff were gracious enough to open their home to Jeremy, me, and our 3 knuckle heads. Aunt Lindsay even arranged for us to make and decorate Christmas cookies.

The girls got to wear Lindsay's pretty aprons to bake in.

Time to decorate - the kids favorite part. There must have been 5 dozen cookies to decorate!!

Uncle Jeff and Aunt Lindsay getting dinner ready! Aren't they cute!!

We also made some cake balls.

And some other delicious treats....

And the best part - EATING THEM!!!

Thanks to Lindsay and Jeff for having us in their home and in their kitchen!

Basketball, Bears, and a Ball Boy

2010-12-23T11:05:00.000-06:00

Recently Jack had an opportunity to be a Ball Boy at a Men's Baylor Basketball game. He was very excited to be a part of the action! We all came out to support him.

Brett and I got ready by eating some popcorn and warming up our seats.

We saw Bruiser the Bear dressed as Santa - isn't he cute?

Jack's responsibilities included mopping the sweat off the floor and offering water to the ref's during time outs and breaks. He sat behind the goal with the band behind him.

What's wrong baby, is it too loud for you??

Waiting to offer water to the ref's.

Nice job son.

The highlight of the game for Brett was getting to pose with Bruiser the Bear! Sic' Em Bears!

Jack said he liked having a job where he had tasks and then got to take a break!

Lady Brett Ashley Turns 7

2010-12-22T13:56:00.000-06:00

On December 17th, my baby girl, Brett, turned 7 years old. Isn't she still 4 years old?

She wears earrings. She likes clothes. She wants to grow her hair long. She has a best friend. She can read, and add, and subtract. She's a big girl now.

First we celebrated at her school with her classmates. This is her best friend, Courtney.

Then we went to lunch at a local "girly" lunch place.

Then it was time for a pedicure....

And a manicure complete with snowflakes and snow.

Dinner time at her favorite restaurant - the thai place.

Present Time: First - new boots just like Mommy's.

Second - a Zhu zhu Pet track.

Last - her favorite....

A Barbie Jet Plane.

The cake - okay okay, I am not a cake decorator. But I tried and did as Brett asked.

Make a wish, baby girl.... Hopefully she wished to never get a year older.... I hope so. And to never leave home... Right??

SEVEN - A lucky year. Hope this next year is as good as the last.

A Concan Christmas

2010-12-22T09:00:00.001-06:00

During our stay at the Frio, we attended the First Annual Concan Christmas Celebration.

We saw a donkey.

We saw a Llama.

We saw a pig.

We saw geese.

We posed for a few pictures.

Not all of us wanted to pose for pictures.

Merry Christmas Concan Style!!

Santa Hats

2010-12-21T09:42:00.001-06:00

The last couple of weeks have been pretty busy around here. So I was looking for the easy way out when it came to providing treats for Kate's class party. I signed up for cupcakes, but didn't want to bake them or buy pre-made cupcakes. I went to the internet for help. That's when I found these! I tweaked the recipe a bit to make it easier on me.

All you need is pre-made brownie bites. Strawberries. White frosting (I used a ziploc bag to pipe the frosting around the hats). These were a huge hit at the party! And delicious. I will probably make these every year for kids school parties.

A Frio Photo Shoot

2010-12-21T09:29:00.001-06:00

I love to play with my camera. But I usually don't have time to take a 100 pictures. While at the Frio, I took some time outside with the kids and had a little photo shoot. Here are a couple of my favs.

Brett, she posed for me and I was able to get dozens of her.

Jack. Harder to photograph, but I was able to get this one which I love!! My serious kid.

Kate is the hardest subject to photograph. Usually no smile and her eyes are closed. Here no smile, but eyes are open!! Big eyes and big lips - such a cutie!

These Boots Were Made For.....

2010-12-20T20:00:00.001-06:00

These boots were made for.....

1. Keeping my feet dry.

2. Keeping my Uggs dry.

3. Keeping my girls' feet dry.

3. Getting my two baby girls across the river so they could fish with their Daddy...

Over the River and Thru' the Woods....

2010-12-19T14:25:00.001-06:00

For Thanksgiving, we spent the week at the Frio River. We had a wonderful relaxing Thanksgiving Vacation.

This was the view from our porch! The river is a short walk down from the cabin.

We spent time in the hammock. At one point all five of us were in it!!

Jack tried to make fire with a metal rod and flint.

We fished - A LOT!!

We even caught a few.

We celebrated Jack's 10th birthday!!!

We hiked and visited a cave.

We went to a "Concan Christmas Celebration".

We have visited the Frio River many times, but never in the off season. Even though we couldn't swim or float, we found plenty to do. We loved our time there and nobody was ready to leave. Hopefully we can persuade our family to come with us next year!

My Son's First "Mug Shots"

2010-12-18T23:30:00.001-06:00

On November 24, 2010, my son, my firstborn turned 10! Some reminded me and him that he was 1 decade old. How did this happen? My baby... He was chubby and sweet. He was a well behaved toddler. A good sleeper. He is a great big brother. Smart. A leader. A good singer. A good friend. But still MY BABY. Right??

He insisted I take mug shot-like pictures on his tenth birthday. So here they are....

Oh My! I think my heart is breaking. How did 10 years go by? How did I not notice? HOW DID THIS HAPPEN???

Jack's School Birthday Celebration

2010-12-18T23:17:00.001-06:00

On November 19, Jack celebrated his birthday at school.

Because his birthday is so close to Thanksgiving, he celebrated with his classmates during their Thanksgiving Class Party.

Lots of treats and games for everyone....

Just Kate

2010-12-18T23:08:00.001-06:00

This is the best picture I can get of Kate. Every other photo is blurry or she is closing her eyes!

November 19, 2010

2 years old

Doin' Some Good

2010-12-18T23:02:00.001-06:00

The kids' school, Live Oak Classical School, does a day of service on the Friday prior to Thanksgiving. Each grade has a service project. Grammar One's (read as First Grade) service project was Food For Families. They collected cans from all the Live Oak families. Then we gathered all the food and brought it to our local food bank, Caritas. These little first graders collected over 1,000 lbs of food. Pretty amazing for a bunch of 6 year olds!!

Mrs. Johnson's and Mrs. Chenault's Grammar One students sitting on over 1,000 lbs. of food!!

Pasta E Fagioli

2010-12-18T22:51:00.001-06:00

Great for cold weather.

Hearty Pasta E Fagioli

MMMMM! I might have to make it this week.......

Hard Drives Are Important

2010-12-18T10:21:00.000-06:00

After almost a month, I finally had my laptop fixed. The hard drive crashed and had to be replaced. And most importantly all my photos had to be retrieved. Now I'm back. I've missed my computer and I've missed blogging. I have lots to share - pictures, recipes, stories, etc.. But I don't have time to do it today. So over the next few days, I plan to have many posts. 2 birthdays have occurred, several class parties, Christmas parties, church events, and a few fun recipes.
Go finish your Christmas shopping (don't tell me you are done, cuz' I am not!) and check back in a few days for some time wasting reading....

2 Two Year Olds With iPhones

2010-11-08T19:04:00.001-06:00

Every Monday afternoon in September and October, we headed to the football fields to watch Jack's school team play flag football. During the one hour games, we had to find something to keep Kate busy and off the football field. We downloaded some preschool friendly iPhone games and handed over our fragile phones. Kate and her friend, Rhynn, (they are one week apart in age) enjoyed playing with their Mommys' iPhones while their big brothers played football.

Isn't it amazing how much a 2 year old can do on an iPhone??!!!

Beef With Snow Peas

2010-11-08T18:42:00.000-06:00

I made this for dinner tonight - Beef With Snow Peas. It was REALLY good and super easy. I have never cooked with fresh ginger or snow peas. And now I am wondering - Why Not? My picky non-meat eating son ate two helpings - meat and snow peas. He didn't even pick through it, he just ate it! Success!! You could do this with other veggies such as green beans or broccoli. Either would be good. Make this for your family and watch it all disappear. Poor Gracie Lou didn't get ANY left overs. There was nothing left.

November Dinners - Week 2

2010-11-05T10:01:00.000-05:00

Is it time to go the grocery store? Do you need ideas of what to cook this coming week? Here's what the Counsellers are eating:

Sunday - Beef with Snow Peas, Brown Rice

Monday - Creamy Chicken Pasta, Fresh Green Beans

Tuesday - Cubed Steak, Crash Hot potatoes, Broccoli

Wednesday - Dinner at Church

Thursday - Oven Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Corn

Friday - My Chicken Piccata

Saturday - Quick Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup, French Bread

I am trying one new soup every weekend in November. I will critique them and let you know what's good and what's not!

And soon I will be planning our Thanksgiving menu..... Gobble, Gobble

November Dinners - Week One

2010-11-02T10:49:00.002-05:00

November Dinner Menu Week One

This is what we are eating this week. I am hoping to finally get to the meatloaf, which keeps getting pushed aside for various scheduling reasons!

Monday - Chili, Fritos, cheese

Tuesday - Meatloaf, Mashed potatoes, corn

Wednesday - Church Dinner

Thursday - Taco, Beans, Rice

Friday - Beef Stew, Rolls

Saturday - Hearty Pasta E Fagioli, French Bread

My Family

2010-11-01T16:51:00.002-05:00

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T17:14:00.000-05:00

We have been celebrating Halloween all week. First with trick or treating at Baylor on Tuesday, Kate's school Halloween party and trick or treating, then pumpkin carving at church on Wednesday, a Halloween party at friends' house with more pumpkin carving on Friday, and then the Fall Festival and Trunk or Treating on Saturday afternoon and evening. I haven't decided if we will continue to celebrate tonight, we have enough candy and have gotten plenty of use out of our costumes.
Here's a look at our week of Halloween.

Here Kitty Kitty.....

Party with the two year olds.

Time to carve pumpkins.

Brett and Hayley carving Hayley's pumpkin.

Jack, Jacob and Hunter - cool guy pose. They carved their own pumpkin.

Brett posing with our family pumpkin.

Jack with the pumpkin.

Fall Festival and Trunk or Treating. Brett, Kate, and Kate's best friend, Blaire.

Marc (Blaire's adorable baby brother), Brett and Kate sitting in our trunk.

Happy Halloween from the Counsellers.

Ghosts and Pumpkins - DELICIOUS

2010-10-30T13:52:00.000-05:00

I made these for Kate's class party.

Oreos dipped in white bark, topped with mini chocolate chips.

Nutter Butter cookies dipped in white bark topped with mini chocolate chips.

Easy, Halloween treat - great for class parties or Halloween parties.

AAUMC Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat 2010

2010-10-30T13:35:00.001-05:00

YOU ARE INVITED:

AAUMC FALL FESTIVAL AND TRUNK OR TREAT

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 20

4-7 PM

GAMES, BOUNCY HOUSES, HOT DOGS, DRINKS, SNO CONES, AND TRUNK OR TREAT!

We had a blast last year. If you live in Waco and are looking for something to do, then come on out.

20 free tickets for each kid (each game, bouncy house, etc. takes 1 ticket)

Foreshadowing

2010-10-25T14:53:00.001-05:00

You know when you receive signs that you only recognize once you look back in time. Kate is home sick today - fever, runny nose, sleepy, etc.

This is Kate on Friday. She hasn't taken a nap or fallen asleep in the car in months! And Friday she fell asleep in the car on the way to pick up the kids. She slept all the way there and all the way home! I was so surprised. I guess this was a sign of what was to come.

Yes, she is wearing her Halloween Costume. She didn't want to take it off. So I let her wear it. She's the baby, I let her do anything that keeps her from screaming!

Children's Choir

2010-10-25T14:42:00.001-05:00

Last Sunday, the kids performed at church. I love watching the kids get on stage and sing in church.

Jack had a few duets during the performance. Brett was part of the "back up" choir.

Jack and Derby singing. Look at Brett in the lower left. What a face!! That makes me laugh. She's like a little devil on your shoulder telling you to do bad things!

Great singing! Our Austin Avenue kids were wonderful. Thanks to their amazing Children's Choir Director. I don't know how she gets them all to learn the words and then to perform.

Can't wait for the Christmas Performance..

Enchiladas - So Yummy!!

2010-10-25T10:55:00.001-05:00

Make these this week!! They were so good. And they were good the next day warmed up.

White Chicken Enchilada

I made this on Thursday. Here's the filling - chicken, I used a pre-cooked chicken from the grocery store. There's jalapeno in here too! Don't be afraid - all three of my kids ate this!

Here are the enchiladas before cooking. They turn into a lovely melty cheesy slightly spicy dinner! So good. Top them with some sliced jalapenos and fresh cilantro - and then eat 2 or 3 or 4 of them. I served them with some mexican rice and refried beans.

Deliciousness.....

Week 4 - Dinners

2010-10-25T10:33:00.001-05:00

This is what we are eating this week.

Sunday - Sliders, Roasted Potato Wedges

Monday - Taco Soup

Tuesday - No cooking - Busy night of meetings and Baylor Trick or Treating

Wednesday - Dinner at Church

Thursday - Meatloaf - from last week - we never got to it

Friday - Halloween Party

Okay, so I am not doing much cooking this week. I will be making some cute Halloween cookies for Kate's class party. If they turn out good, I will post some pictures.

Have a great week of cooking or NOT cooking, like me!!!

MAKE THIS

2010-10-22T14:54:00.000-05:00

I made this for my family this weekend:

Hot Fudge Pudding Cake

You should make it. Serve it with ice cream. It was DELICIOUS!

I

My Pepper Steak

2010-10-21T21:17:00.000-05:00

It's time to make Pepper Steak. My best friend, Heather, once gave me this recipe years ago. Since then I have modified it and changed it.

Everyone in my family eats it. It's a great go to meal.

Let's begin.

First chop half an onion and 3 bell peppers - any color. I used two red ones and one green. I chop them in slices. But you could do square chunks if you prefer. So, start slicing....

Time for the meat. This is what I buy. But you could purchase pre-sliced stir fry beef if you want.

Seasoning: Season the beef by sprinkling garlic powder, kosher salt and freshly ground pepper on it. Do this to each piece of meat. And try to keep the 2 year old's fingers out of the salt while you do it. Okay?

Get your trusty knife and slice the beef, just like this...

Coat the slices of beef in flour. I used 2 tablespoons of flour.

Time to cook. Put two tablespoons of butter and two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet. Heat it up.

While that's heating up.. Try to keep the 2 year old's hands off your egg rolls. No, Kate you can't eat them. THEY ARE FROZEN.. And, Why are you wearing sunglasses in the house??

And go ahead and pour yourself a glass of wine. This usually makes cooking go a little more smoothly in my kitchen. This is one I like..

Where was I? Oh yeah, skillet heating up... Time to brown the beef. Toss it in and brown it on all sides. Don't over cook it. It gets to cook some more later on. If you cook it all the way through, you will end up with leather by the time it is done.

Remove the browned beef from the skillet. Put the sliced peppers and onion in the same pan. Cook them for 5-6 minutes. Then add 2-3 gloves of garlic.

Then throw the beef back into the pan with the beef. Add 3/4 can of beef broth, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of worcestershire sauce. Bring this to a boil. Cover. Reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes. While it simmers throw your egg rolls in the oven and cook some brown rice.

Serve over a bed of rice with a side of egg rolls and dipping. Yummy!!!

Enjoy!

Make This!!

2010-10-17T19:22:00.002-05:00

I made this for my family this weekend:

Hot Fudge Pudding Cake

You should make it. Serve it with vanilla ice cream. It was DELICIOUS!

Yeah, They're All Mine

2010-10-16T20:33:00.000-05:00

My babies. How in the world did this happen? How did I end up with three kids?

Week 2 Cooking - Update

2010-10-15T22:00:00.001-05:00

Confession: I never made the Baked Spaghetti I mentioned in the Week 2 post. I got confused and accidentally planned to cook it on Monday - our flag football night. Then quickly realized I didn't have time to make it on a Monday. So, I made spaghetti instead.
I made Fried Round Steak on Tuesday. This was my second time to attempt this recipe. I learned that Cube steak bought from the butcher counter makes for a MUCH better Fried Round steak.
Just thought I should share that little tip.

The Zoo and New Friends

2010-10-15T21:09:00.001-05:00

The big kids were out of school today - Fall Break - whoever heard of that. We never had Fall Break, but they have Fall Break. So, we headed to the zoo with one of Kate's classmates and her mommy.

The first part of our zoo trip always begins with a trip to the water to feed the fish. Here we found this handsome fellow.

These are the fish the kids love to feed. HUGE CATFISH!!! Kind of ugly, huh??

The kids love to throw the pellets down to feed the fish.

Smile, Kate! Smile - Say Cheese!! C'mon Kate, SMILE!!! No, okay fine - Snap.....

Smile, Blaire - Snap... Adorable! Blaire is a classmate of Kate's - in fact they may be "Besties". Blaire brought her friend, Mia (whose mommy, Meredith, has a great blog In Sock Monkey Slippers, you should check it out). The 3 girls had a lot of fun playing together. And my two big kids had a good time helping us Mommies keep up with 3 two year olds!! Jack and Brett were so helpful and sweet to all the "babies". I was a proud Mama today!

How many Zoo posts have I done since I started this blog? How many times have I visited the Cameron Park Zoo? And when will the Cameron Park Zoo cease to be fun for my 3 kids? Will I one day beg to take them to the zoo, while they resist and tell me how "baby" the zoo is? Maybe, but I hope not!

October Week 3 Dinners

2010-10-14T13:09:00.001-05:00

Menu for the up-coming week:

Saturday - Mini Meatball Sandwiches, Baked Zucchini Fries

Sunday - Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce (I think), salad, bread

Monday - Chicken Strips, Rice-a-Roni, Peas

Tuesday - Pepper Steak - This is my own creation - maybe if I have time, I will write down the recipe and snap a few photos when I make it.

Wednesday - Church Dinner

Thursday - White Chicken Enchiladas, Beans, Rice

Friday - Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans

4 of the above recipes will be new to me, so I will let you know how they turn out.

Funky Nails

2010-10-12T09:37:00.002-05:00

I use to paint my nails. Before I had 3 kids, before I had to do 20 loads of dishes and 15 loads of laundry a week. I use to....

A couple of weeks ago, I bought some nail polish, and some nail polish remover. I painted my nails, then I did it again, and again. I can't stop now!

Here is my favorite brand and a few of my favorite colors:

Sally Hansen Insta Dri Nail Polish

Colors: Night Flight, Grape Going, Mochachino, Blue Streak, and Flashy Fuschia

MONSTER Cookies

2010-10-12T09:28:00.001-05:00

Just in time for Halloween, I made these:

I don't know why they are called Monster cookies. They aren't scary looking or tasting. Actually they taste quite good, and I can't stop eating them.

Make these, if you dare!!! Monster cookie recipe

Tuesday Cleaning

2010-10-12T09:18:00.001-05:00

Every Tuesday, I pick up the house. My house keeper comes on Wednesdays, so I clean on Tuesdays. Smart, I know!

I grabbed a laundry basket, walked around the kitchen, half bathroom, and living room to pick up toys.

Here's the basket:

Seriously?? It hasn't even been a week since I picked up the toys! How does THIS happen?

Week 2 - Cooking

2010-10-08T09:07:00.000-05:00

This is what I am cooking this week.

Saturday - Stroganoff - we love this meal - I leave out the mushrooms.

Sunday - Hamburgers, Beans (maybe these), Homemade Mac N Cheese (recipe to come)

Monday - Fried Round Steak, Crash Hot Potatoes

Tuesday - Baked Spaghetti, Salad, Corn

Wednesday - Dinner at Church

Thursday - Going to the HOT fair and rodeo

Friday - Vegetarian Chili, cornbread - I won our church chili cook-off with this chili. All my kids love it.

Peanut Butter and Chocolate Sandwich Cookies

2010-10-08T08:54:00.001-05:00

On Sunday after church, the girls and I made some cookies. Jeremy had to work, so we had some time to fill. We made Peanut Butter and Chocolate Sandwich Cookies (find Recipe Here)

After making the cookies - a dough like mixture. Brett rolled them into balls and then we baked them.

Here are the finished cookies - a cake like cookie. We tasted them at this point - yummy.

Time to make the filling - peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, cream cheese.
Whose grubby fingers are those??

Time to fill the cookies - a tablespoon or so of the mixture between each set of cookies.

Voila!! These were a hit. The kids loved them. And my co-workers loved them.

The best part was cooking with the girls. Brett loves to help in the kitchen. (Hi Gracie Lou, lurking in the background, waiting for something to fall on the floor)

Kate, not much help, but really cute. Yes, she is brushing her hair with my basting brush. Nice..

Make these cookies and share them with people you love. They are delicious.

Food Updates

2010-10-08T08:19:00.001-05:00

As I mentioned earlier this week, I am trying some new recipes - well I tried some new recipes this week.

First up - Puff Pastry Chicken Pot Pie

While the kids were at school, I put together the filling - veggies, chicken, cream of chicken soup, etc.. Then I covered it and put in the refrigerator. MMMMM......

After school, I put together the pie using the puff pastry and filling. I baked for 45 minutes.

And it was delicious.....

Brett said it was Yummy.

Second - Roasted Vegetable Minestrone Soup - I made this last night. It was also very good. Lots of vegetables! I would make it again.

Interruptions

2010-10-07T14:53:00.002-05:00

As I mentioned earlier, I am potty training Kate. Did I mention I hate potty training? I probably have. Let me say it again - loudly - "I HATE POTTY TRAINING".

We started 10 days ago. Kate put on panties and we gave it a go. To be honest she has done great. Within a couple of days, she was peeing in the potty like a pro. She's had only a couple of accidents since then. BUT, this is a huge BUT, she isn't pooping in the potty (yeah, I said pooping!). And this part sucks!!!! She will hold it for days and then spend an entire day or two (like yesterday and today) visiting the bathroom, with my assistance each and EVERY time, about every 2-5 minutes. She is in a panic, she has to go now, and then she chickens out! She waited for her night time diaper yesterday to take care of her business. I am not sure how much more I can take.

Scenarios of recent: I am folding laundry, stop, take child to bathroom, sit back down, fold 2 more shirts, stop take child to bathroom, repeat every 3-5 minutes. I am taking a shower, knock on door, take child to bathroom, get back in shower, knock on door, take child to bathroom, repeat every 3-5 minutes. I am cooking dinner, stop take panicked child to bathroom, wash hands, return to cooking, cut up half an onion, take insistent child to bathroom. (I have just been beckoned to the bathroom by 2 year old, please excuse me, I will be back and then I will have to return to bathroom in 3-5 minutes)...... Again - nothing, I know she has to go, WHY WON'T SHE GO??????

She is cheery and fine with 100 visits to the potty a day. I AM NOT FINE OR CHEERY. I am annoyed and frustrated and MAD. My patience is fading (okay, okay, FADED, GONE, NEVER TO RETURN)

I know my lack of patience will not help this process, but I can't seem to find a way to get this patience back. I need a break from potty training - and this will not be easy to get. Jeremy is working long hours, only to return home once the kids are in bed. He's going camping this weekend, which means more hours alone with the QUEEN OF THE POTTY.

I think I might scream.

I think I might cry.

I think I might run away!!!

Trying to merge my daily activities with potty training is proving to be more difficult than expected.

Potty count: we visited the potty 3 times during the time it took me to write this post. (and as I post this, we headed to the bathroom again)

Getting Organized

2010-10-05T10:57:00.003-05:00

Since the birth of our third child, I have been a little disorganized. My house is a wreck most of the time, and I rarely take the time to plan out meals for the family. Now the big kids are back at school and Kate and I are establishing a routine. I've decided to become more purposeful in my meal planning. Last week, I sat down and came up with a month of meals for October. One meal for every night of the week posted on a calendar in a 3 ring binder with corresponding recipes behind it.
Here's what we are eating this week - because I know you are dying to know!

Each recipe title will be a link to take you to the recipe.

Sunday - Homemade sloppy joes - these were very good. My husband loves more because of them!

Monday - Spaghetti and salad- it's flag football night, so an easy throw together meal - no recipe required.

Tuesday - Puff Pastry Chicken Pot Pie

Wednesday - Dinner at Church

Thursday - Roasted Vegetable Minestrone Soup

Friday - Steaks, Potatoes, and Corn on the Cob - again no recipe needed

I will give an update on the two new recipes and let you know if they are good or not!
Here's to a week of cooking good food!

Jack and Falcon Flag Football

2010-09-30T12:09:00.001-05:00

Jack is playing Flag Football for his school this year. All fourth graders are required to play at least one sport. So first up this year is football.

Jack is very serious about this game and has learned a lot about playing.

Jack's game face

Action shot

All ready

Since the weather has changed, it has been much more enjoyable being a spectator at his games. Now we are all looking forward to the Falcon team to win a game. Maybe next week....

Potty Training AGAIN

2010-09-30T11:00:00.001-05:00

Okay, so I have a confession: I failed at our first attempt at potty training Kate. But we are at it again. We are on day 3 of wearing underwear ("we" means Kate). This is not without accidents, but I think we are on the right track this time. Hopefully in a few weeks, I can post "Kate Is Potty Trained"!!

Trip Down Memory Lane

2010-09-30T10:36:00.000-05:00

Today I found some OLD photos on Flickr that I forgot I had. I didn't have these photos saved on my current computer because they were lost on an old computer that crashed. I was delighted to find pictures of my middle baby. Photo quality is poor, due to a very old digital camera. But I am so glad I found these.

Me, Jack and Baby Brett

Jack and his new baby sister, Brett. Look at those chubby cheeks on Jack. He was so little. Just 3 years old!

My handsome husband holding his new daughter (who is not really in the photo!)

My daughter. She has changed so much.

I am thankful for this picture.

And this photo.

And this one...

What a treasure to have found these old photos.

Chicken Strips

2010-09-25T09:35:00.003-05:00

Are you looking for something to make for dinner tonight? I found this recipe on The Pioneer Woman website, and made it last night. They were REALLY good. My picky no meat-eating son ate 4 of them!

Homemade Chicken Strips

Prep Time: 30 Minutes | Cook Time: 3 Minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Servings: 6

Ingredients

1 package Chicken Breasts, Cut Into Strips (sometimes Called "tenders" Or "strips")
Buttermilk
1-½ cup Flour
2 teaspoons (to 3 Teaspoons) Lawry's Seasoning Salt (or Spices Of Your Choosing)
Vegetable Oil

Preparation Instructions

Start by rinsing and drying your chicken strips. Next, in a bowl submerge the chicken strips in buttermilk for 15 to 20 minutes (or longer if you'd like).

In another bowl combine about 1½ cups flour and 2 to 3 teaspoons of Lawry's Seasoning Salt (or other seasonings if you prefer). Mix this together well. Next, add about ¼ to ½ cup of buttermilk into the flour mixture and stir lightly with a fork as you add it.

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-low to medium heat.

Remove a few of the buttermilk-soaked strips and place them in the flour mixture, turning them over to coat them thoroughly. Place them on a plate. Continue coating chicken strips until they are all ready to cook.

When the oil is sufficiently heated, begin cooking the strips a few at a time. Cook them for about a minute and a half or so on each side. When golden and crispy, remove them to a paper towel-lined plate.

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Kate Napping

2010-09-24T11:19:00.001-05:00

Since Kate moved to the 2 year old room at school, she hasn't been napping. For one, she's expected to sleep on a nap mat (she still sleeps in a crib at home) and two, she gave up naps at home this summer.
So, last week when a substitute teacher in her class was able to get her to nap, we were all surprised. Jeremy pulled out his phone and snapped a picture.
Look at those cute baby lips.

Stop and Smell the Flowers

2010-09-24T09:44:00.004-05:00

Our friends, Diane and Tyrrell, visited the Frio River with us. Diane and Tyrrell are great with kids. All of kids love them!!
Diane took the kids down to the river to pick flowers.

Where are those flowers? There they are....

I love this picture of Diane and Kate. Diane is a teeny tiny thing and she looks tall next to little Kate.

Flowers found and picked.

Time to head back to the cabins.

The kids brought the flowers up and handed them all out to the Moms!

2010-09-24T08:57:00.002-05:00

Success!!!

2010-09-24T08:56:00.002-05:00

Learning to post from my phone.

Dance Party

2010-09-24T07:40:00.002-05:00

Introducing our Dancers:

Cousin Brooke

Brett

Katie Bug

Shake it girls!!

Time to slow it down....

Whew!! Time for a break.

Introducing Julie and Ryan

Nothing like a good dance party on the porch at the Frio River!

Relaxation

2010-09-24T07:21:00.002-05:00

We arrived at our cabin mid afternoon. The weather was beautiful and the kids were READY to get into the river. We unpacked the car and settled into the cabin. Then one of us adults had to make the 30 minute trip to the grocery. We drew straws - Jeremy lost! Off to HEB he went and down to the river with three kids, I went.
Boy, am I glad that Jeremy lost!! Because this is what it looked like down by the river. This is one of my favorite pictures and I took it with my iPhone not my "good" camera. Beautiful - this is why we go to the Frio River.

After Kate tired of swimming, we got out for some good ole' fashioned rock throwing.

Jeremy was gone about 3 hours and we were ALL starving when he returned. We made a snack plate and enjoyed our cheese and fruit on the deck. It was a perfect start to our trip - for me anyway, not sure Jeremy would agree!!

Going To The Frio, Frio

2010-09-23T13:31:00.002-05:00

Two days after Jeremy's birthday, we headed out of town for a family vacation. All of Jeremy's family joined us - his aunts, his mom, brother, sister, their spouses, our nieces and nephew, and lots of family friends.

I had a little fun in the car with my iPhone. Here's my good looking man driving.

This is how Kate rides - in style. Watching her Dora shows and Baby Einstein. She was an EXCELLENT car rider this trip.

A little more fun with my iPhone and a photo app.

On our long trips, we always like to plan a side trip to a big city to eat. In Waco, our choices are limited! We headed to the San Antonio PF Changs. So Yummy So Yummy - name that children's show...

While we were there, Kate used her Wonder Pets and her chopsticks to put on a show for us.

Aren't they cute. Lenny, Tuck and Ming-Ming too.... What's gonna work? Team work!!

She sure is a violent little thing! Lots of time playing Legos, Nerf Guns and Soldiers with her big brother, I guess.

Completely over exposed picture. But she is just so cute, I had to post it.

SHOW ME THE LOVE....

I made Jack smile with his teeth. He always closes his lips when he smiles.

Delicious lunch, now time to load up and get back on the road.

One For You and One For Me??

2010-09-23T12:01:00.003-05:00

I mentioned I bought Jeremy an iPhone for his birthday, right? Did I mention I got myself one too?? No. Well I did. I have been wanting one for a LONG time. So what better time than the present to get one for me since I was already at the store buying Jeremy's.

I took the picture of the screen with the iPhone, but I don't know how I did it. It was an accident. How did I do it? Does anybody know?

I am still discovering many features of the phone. I love getting apps. Any suggestions for apps I have to have?
I am totally cool now. I have wireless in my house and an iPhone. I can't get any cooler, well unless I had an iPad.......

Chocolate and Chocolate

2010-09-23T11:44:00.002-05:00

Usually for Jeremy's birthday, I make the old standby German Chocolate cake for him because it's his favorite. It's not my favorite or the kids favorite. But my German chocolate cakes usually aren't very good. I use a box mix and have tried my hand at homemade icing which never was quite right. So this year, I scoured my cookbooks and the internet looking for something different. Something chocolatey, rich, moist and delicious.
I looked and I looked and I looked and then I found THIS

Oh so good to die for Peanut Butter Cup chocolate cake. There are TWO bags of mini Reese's Cups in this bad boy. One bag of milk chocolate inside and one bag of DARK chocolate on the outside. Sinful I know and and and and there is peanut butter in the homemade icing.... Oh yeah....

I found the recipe on Bakerella
Here's the recipe:

Peanut Butter Cup Cake

1 devil’s food cake mix
3 eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 cups chopped peanut butter cups (plus more for garnishing – I used 2 bags)
8 oz. dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup peanut butter

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat two 9-inch cake pans with non-stick cooking spray. Line with wax paper and coat paper.
In a large bowl, beat cake mix, eggs, buttermilk and vegetable oil on low for 30 seconds. Increase speed to medium-high and beat for 2 minutes. Scrape down sides after 1 minute. Fold in 2 cups of the chopped peanut butter cups.
Pour batter into pans and bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool cakes completely.
Place chopped dark chocolate in a medium bowl. Bring cream just to a boil and then pour over chocolate. Whisk until chocolate melts. Add peanut butter and whisk until smooth.
Trim each cake layer so the tops are flat. Place one layer on a cooling rack and pour 1 cup frosting on top. Spread evenly with a spatula. Add second layer and pour remaining frosting over top and sides of cake. Smooth out with spatula.
Allow frosting to set for a minute and gently press remaining chopped peanut butter cup pieces all over top and sides of cake. Place in refrigerator for about an hour to set. Remove and serve.

Make this for somebody. Or make it for you. It was worth it.

iBirthday

2010-09-23T11:23:00.002-05:00

I decided to get Jeremy a very special present for his birthday.
Something he had wanted.
Something he had asked for.
Something that he would be excited to get.

Close your eyes, Jeremy.....

SURPRISE!!!!

Do you know what it is??

An iPhone 4!!! So excited.

And then we had cake - delicious chocolate peanut butter cup cake. Homemade by me and Brett and Kate. I found a fabulous recipe - more to come on that later.

Happy Birthday Jeremy. Make a wish...

Two Birthdays and A Brother

2010-09-11T10:56:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow both my husband and my brother will celebrate their birthdays. I must admit that because Jeremy's birthday is the same day as my brother's, that I often neglect my brother's special day.
So today, I would like to wish him a Happy Birthday.

Things that remind me of my brother, Tony.

1. Small black Nissan cars

2. Fettuccine Alfredo (that was his specialty meal when he lived at home)

3. Swimming - we spent our summers swimming

4. Riding Bikes - that's why we spent our childhood doing.

5. Soccer

6. My Babies - Especially Jack looked just like Tony as a baby and toddler

7. Aggies - I try not to hold this against him!

8. Catwalks with couches underneath - My favorite memory of Tony: In our house in Humble, we had a catwalk across the second floor of our house above the living room. Unfortunately, the couch was located directly underneath this catwalk. Tony and his friends discovered that you could JUMP off the catwalk and land on the couch. This was a common recreational activity in our house. My parents found out about this years after we were out of the house. They always wondered why that green couch was so broken down!!

9. His beautiful baby girl - who looks just like him when she smiles.

Tomorrow Tony turns 32 (not so little anymore!) Happy Birthday Tony! I hope you have a great day.

A List Of Things....

2010-09-10T13:48:00.001-05:00

That I'm not doing today.

1. Laundry, despite the pile of unfolded clothes in my game room.

2. The dishes - I haven't unloaded the dish washer yet!

3. Grocery shopping

4. Picking up toys

5. Packing for our trip next week

6. Shopping for our trip next week

7. Watching T.V.

8. Leaving the house

Sometimes, you have to shake it up. Just to make things interesting.

Rain

2010-09-08T16:36:00.004-05:00

It has rained for the last two days in Waco. It feels like I am living in Houston again. Wet and humid.
It makes me want to eat BAD food (meaning: delicious, sugary, chocolaty food)
This is what I really want to make:

Pretty Little Brownie Bites

MMMMM....... Should I make them??

Are You Ready For Some FootBALLLLL???

2010-09-04T23:22:00.003-05:00

Well the Counsellers are! We had a football filled weekend.

On Friday night we went to the kids' school's varsity football game. Private school football games are just like public school football games - just on a smaller scale.

Go Falcons!

Little Bitty Kate next to a big ~~football player~~ referee (Jeremy corrected my mistake).

No she was not on the football field. This was prior to the game.

Jack showing his Falcon Spirit

The sunset in the background is almost as good looking as my husband.

Time for some impromptu cheerleading. Kate doing a "cartwheel". Guess their cheering worked. Live Oak won the game.

Saturday night we decided to take all three to kids to a Baylor football game. We like to live on the edge!! They all ended up doing great and we didn't even have to leave early.

Sic 'em Bears. Baylor vs. Sam Houston

The game became much more enjoyable once the sun set. Until then shades were a necessity.

Our future Baylor Cheerleader. Brett is way more into the cheerleaders than the football game.

I think we may be lucky - Baylor won too! Two of our favorite teams achieved victory. Such a good weekend of football, we may try it again next weekend.

Katie Bug

2010-09-04T10:21:00.001-05:00

Katherine Ann - big name for a little girl. She came into this world at a whopping 5 1/2 lbs. We thought of her as fragile and delicate and we were quickly proven WRONG. She is neither! She crawled and pulled up on furniture at 5 months and walked at 10. She never stops moving. In an earlier post, I called her my little mover and shaker and this is still an appropriate description of her. She is freakishly strong for being so tiny. She is social and tries to do everything the big kids do. She is my most polite child, always using Thank You, Please, I'm Sorry, and Bless You when appropriate. She is affectionate and empathetic. She is The Baby.
My Baby. Years after the big kids leave our house and go on to live their adult lives, she will still be with us. She won't even be able to drive until several years after Brett leaves the house. I imagine this means she and I will spend LOTS of time together. Which means we will totally be bonded and she will never want to leave - EVER. My baby will stay with me forever, Right? Right?

Local Animal Shelter

2010-09-03T15:58:00.004-05:00

Since the kids were out of school (and because they were driving me CRAZY), I decided to take them to our local Humane Society Animal Shelter. We are thinking about getting guinea pigs (Why? you ask, because we are wacky like that), and I heard our shelter had 2 dozen. Of course, we couldn't just look at the piggies. We had to take a walk around. There were so many cats and dogs. I know they are well taken care of there, but I couldn't help but feel sorry for them. Our family dog, Gracie, was adopted from a local no-kill shelter, and WE can't imagine not having her. She is a GREAT dog. And I know that so many of those animals are probably great pets who had crappy owners. If I lived in the country, I would take a few of those dogs and cats home. I even saw a couple of kittens that made me want a cat again (which I swore I would never do again after our cats, Alex and Che died). But they are OH SO CUTE as kittens.
It was good for my kids to see all the animals that need homes. I took a moment to get on my soap box and tell them if they ever get a pet when they get older that it is their responsibility to take of that pet so it doesn't end up at a shelter.
I am sure it sunk in. My soap box lectures are very powerful!

Our Gracie Lou

Lady Brett Ashley

2010-09-03T11:07:00.001-05:00

Brett was named after a character in one of Jeremy's favorite novels, The Sun Also Rises by Hemingway. The lead female character is named Lady Brett Ashley. (just a little FYI for all of you who wonder why this beautiful red headed, blue eyed girl has a boy name!)

Brett is a surprise. She began as a surprise. I found out I was pregnant within a week of moving to Waco. I had not expected it AT ALL!! Then I spent the next 5 months of pregnancy sick as a dog. I couldn't keep much down. I lived on ice water with lemon and cottage cheese and pineapple (which I am pretty I have not eaten since). I was so excited when the doctor told me I was having a girl. From the moment, she began kicking me, I announced that she would be "spicy". And boy was I right. She surprises both me and her father daily. She has a joy for life. She is deceptively smart. She is emotional and cries at movies. She loves animals and babies. She plays guns and legos. She is both girly and a tom boy.

And she will never leave me. She will go to college at Baylor. She will marry a Waco boy. And she will have her babies in Waco, so I can take care of her and of them. This I know. If she does leave, she will break my heart.

And then, I will kidnap her and bring her back to me. Her presence in my life is as necessary as the air I breathe.

Looking Back

2010-09-03T10:50:00.001-05:00

Yesterday evening, I caught Jeremy perusing my blog. He was going through the last 3 years of posts. I am amazed that I have been keeping up with this for over 3 years now. I began the blog in May of 2007. So many things have changed since I began the blog. This morning, I was sucked into reading the last 3 years of posts. Tiny baby pictures, past vacations, birthdays, anniversaries and other milestones. It's been a crazy three years!

Spiders, Kids and Guns - Oh My!

2010-08-31T21:41:00.002-05:00

We had the pleasure of hanging with our good friends, Justin and Kara this weekend. Since they were so kind to host me and my kids while Jeremy was away, we decided to ask them to our house. We always try to stay busy when we are together (for the kids sake!) On Saturday, we went roller skating and played laser tag. On Sunday, we made a trip out to Crawford, Texas for some good ole' gun shooting.

On the way, we, of course, had to stop at Academy for some gun shootin' supplies. While everybody else went in, I got stuck out in the car with Brett and Kate. To pass the time, Kate, looking chic in her flower shades, watched a little t.v.

While Brett did some posing in shades and Justin's cap.

Upon arrival, we came upon a spider. I have NEVER seen a spider this big. Anybody know what kind it is??

While the boys set up, we girls hung out in the shade collecting rocks and swinging on the porch swing.

And Kate explored the property.

Guns - check, bullets - check, targets - check, 3 kids - check!

Up first, Farm Girl, Kara.

Up next - Justin. He looks like a professional.

Next in line - Brett. This was her first time to shoot a gun. After a quick tutorial, she was ready to go.

Nothing like a girl with a gun.

Jack has been shooting before, so this was old hat. He couldn't wait to get his hands on Jeremy's M-4.

We had a great time until the temperature reached 100 degrees. That's about the time that us girls decided to tough it out in the air conditioned car. We ended the day with a trip to Griff's, a restaurant in a gas station, for some burger and fries.
Can't wait to see what we come up with the next time Justin and Kara are in town!

Jack

2010-08-27T11:12:00.003-05:00

Jack - my oldest, my only son, a leader, a nurturer, a quick learner, a typical first born. He has a special place in my heart.
Since he is my first, I learned and experimented with my parenting skills as he grew. When Jeremy worked 80 hour weeks in Houston, Jack was my best friend. We went to mommy and me groups, did lunch together, and shared desserts after dinner. People tell me he is an "old soul" and "mature for his age". Both are true.
In 3 months, he will turn 10. Which means he will have finished half of his time in our house. I only have him for eight more years. I think we are convincing him to stay in town and go to Baylor. That would be nice. But like his Daddy, he likes new things and loves to travel. So I figure one day he will move away, maybe far away and when he does, I will grab his leg like a two year and beg him not to go. And when that doesn't work, I will make him promise to call everyday and visit as often as possible. But knowing my independent son, I will have to call him and beg him to visit (did I mention he's a lot like his daddy?)
Since I have 8 more years, I plan to sneak in as many hugs as possible. And continue to persuade him to live in Waco forever!

Party Time - Last Day of Summer PDO

2010-08-18T21:40:00.005-05:00

Today was the first day of school for Jack and Brett and the last day of summer parents day out for Kate. Every last day is celebrated with a party which included SNOW CONES!!!

Cherry snow cone for Kate

YUMMY!! (so yummy, she ended up eating TWO)

Does this look like trouble or what? Girl Power!!!!

Time to party indoors - lots of candy and cookies.

I have a great appreciation for her PDO teachers. I can't imagine keeping up with half a dozen 2 year olds every day. Looking forward to another great year starting in September.

Going To The Potty, Potty Now...

2010-08-18T21:37:00.002-05:00

Look what we started! This picture makes me want to scream. I dread potty training. It's messy, annoying, and frustrating! Though it does have a huge pay out. Wish us luck.......

First and Fourth

2010-08-18T21:09:00.005-05:00

Today, Brett and Jack began school. The end of summer is suddenly gone. Jack started 4th grade and Brett, 1st grade. Two kids in elementary school! They were both super excited about starting and they both had a wonderful first day. Though we are all tired, due to the alarm clock that was set for 6:15 am (a time none of us have seen all summer long), we are ready to do it all over again tomorrow.

Here's to a great school year!

5 Nights To Go...

2010-08-11T21:11:00.003-05:00

Just five more nights to go. Jeremy left 11 days ago, and we just have 5 to go. Every year, he goes to Guadalajara to teach for two weeks. It's always a long two weeks for me and the kids. And it seems worse for the kids now that they are older. Jack and Brett miss their Daddy. But, I have to admit that this year was a little easier for me. Again, due to the kids getting older and being a little more independent. Though there are a lot of things that I miss.

A few things that I miss while Jeremy is away....

1. A big strong man to take my trash can to the street

2. A big strong man to bring my trash can back to the house

3. Someone to help wash the dishes at night

4. A break from changing dirty diapers!!

5. An adult to share my meals with

6. Someone to ask me how my day was

7. Someone to talk to and laugh about my kids with

8. A warm body on the left side of my bed

9. Someone to drink coffee with in the morning

10. Most of all, I miss my best friend.

I can't wait for Jeremy to return on Monday. This place is not the same without him. And I am tired of taking the stinky trash can out to the street!! Hurry Home, Jeremy....

Hot Mess

2010-08-10T10:55:00.006-05:00

I mentioned in an early post, that we went on a food bender in Austin this weekend. One of our stops was Gourdough's - a gourmet donut vendor. The food was delish - but the weather was HOT. We had to wait outside for 15 minutes for the donuts to be made (each are homemade). So needless to say we were not in the mood for hot sticky donuts. But I definitely would like to return when the weather is cooler.

Heavenly Hash - Marshmallow, chocolate and more chocolate

The Baby Rattler - Oreo cookies, chocolate and the biggest Gummy snake I have EVER seen.

Brett trying to enjoy our dessert despite the 100 degree heat.

Kate sweating and tasting. I think this was her only bite.

If you are ever in Austin, you must check out this Hot Spot (pun intended).

Cicada

2010-08-10T10:23:00.001-05:00

Kara found these in her front garden. Within a few moments, she had all three of my kids holding them and naming them. Just the shells, but still pretty gross!

The Crawford Pool

2010-08-10T09:42:00.006-05:00

On Friday, I packed up all three kids and headed to Austin to spend time with the Crawfords. The Crawfords have no children, and did I mention, I have three. Taking three kids to someone else's house can be a little daunting. But I decided to be adventurous anyway.

On Saturday, after a hot afternoon out in the Austin heat, Justin and Kara suggested getting a baby pool for the kids to play in (great idea guys!) So we went to Target for bathing suits and a pool. After a few minutes of discussion, a pool was chosen.

After over an hour of Justin sitting in the hot sun and using a very small air pump to blow the darn thing up, it was time to "swim"!

Brett waiting for the pool to fill up.

Jack and Brett playing with the hose. I don't understand why it took so long to fill that pool up

Just Kate. Guess the water was a little cold

Something, we parents have learned is to stay far away from any baby pool with multiple children in it. People without kids might think getting in with them is a great idea. Justin is one of those people. He got on his bathing suit, grabbed his summer drink and got in. I believe Justin thought it would be like hanging out in a spa. WRONG. It took him about 45 seconds to figure out that the water is cold, the kids are loud, and there is way too much splashing. After those 45 seconds, he left the baby pool and retreated to the dry and quiet deck, where Kara and I were enjoying our mojitos. Guess some people have to learn the hard way!

At least Kara got one good picture of Justin in the baby pool. This picture cracks me up!!

We had a great time hanging out with the Crawfords and can't wait to do it again (if they will ever have us back!)

Hey, Soul Sister...Ain't that Mister Mister on the Radio

2010-08-09T23:56:00.004-05:00

Since Jeremy is away, I took the kids to visit our friends, Justin and Kara in Austin. We had a wonderful time catching up and eating some good food (our favorite past time). We went to Home Slice and Gourdough's and a hamburger joint that I can't remember the name of. Lots of food in one weekend, there were also breakfast tacos and a home cooked meal. Yeah we were there for only 2 nights!

One evening after swimming in the baby pool (post with pictures to come), the girls along with Kara put on a little performance in the kitchen. What more could I ask for - Great food + Great Entertainment!!

Dress Up With Friends

2010-08-09T22:05:00.004-05:00

While Jeremy is away, the girls will play. Had friends over for dinner and after dinner Brett and Kate played dress up with Addy. Addy looks less than thrilled.

I am not sure what this get up is all about....

My Almost Picture-Less Vacation

2010-08-09T21:50:00.004-05:00

A few pictures from my vacation.

Some of our towel creatures created by our room steward.

A Sting Ray

A monkey, and Jeremy..

The view from our balcony..

Waco Water Park

2010-08-09T21:07:00.004-05:00

In July, we had a church get together at the local Water Park. The kids had a blast swimming.

Kate raising the roof!!

Jack - getting to be such a big boy!

Brett, my bathing beauty.

School Countdown - 13 days

2010-08-05T12:27:00.004-05:00

We are heading towards the end of the summer. Only 13 days till my big kids return to school. I am wondering, "Where did the summer go?" I have no answer for this except that it went as it always does - too fast. I believe my kids are ready to return to school - they miss their friends and being busy. Mommy is boring. I am not looking forward to the scheduling that the Fall will bring with it. Getting up early again. Balancing work schedules and school schedules with our various sports and extracurricular activities. Jeremy's work schedule will very busy with lots of late nights, which leaves all this beautiful scheduling to me. Time to get organized, I guess.

The uniforms are bought and school registration is next week. Then the next week, school begins.

Trying to enjoy the last few weeks of summer, even with Jeremy out of town for the next week and half.

Hope everyone else enjoys their last few weeks of freedom also!

I'm Baaaack....

2010-07-30T17:26:00.004-05:00

I've been MIA lately. Truth is, I escaped - no kids, no laundry, no cooking, no cleaning, no work, no bedtimes, no alarms. I slept in, ordered room service, and spent time in a casino. Every meal was prepared and served to me, and I didn't have to wash a single dish! My bed was made for me and turned down every night with a chocolate on the pillow. My bathroom was cleaned daily and the trash can was emptied and it wasn't me who did it. Can you guess where I was?

Seven nights on a cruise ship. Snorkeling in Cozumel and a little snuba in the Caymans. Complete bliss. Just me, my hubby, a bathing suit and some tank tops. It was great.

The worst part is I don't have any pictures to prove it. I brought a camera with me but there's not one single picture of me on the cruise. There's a few pictures of the towel animals made for us by our room steward. And one or two of Jeremy in our cabin, but not one single picture of me!

So, you will just have to take my word for it. I went on a cruise with no children and enjoyed every minute of it.

Saturday With The Counsellers

2010-07-10T10:22:00.003-05:00

Saturday Morning 10:22 a.m.

A typical Saturday morning in my house looks like this.

The Scene: Brett laying on coffee table, talking to herself and playing her pink DS. Jack walking around complaining about being bored. Kate running around touching everything she shouldn't and saying "Mommy" every 5-10 seconds.

The Sounds: Lawn mower in backyard, Yo Gabba Gabba songs, crying and whining from Kate, Kate being told to sit in time out, the dryer running (as always).

This is how we spend our Saturday.

First Swim of the Summer

2010-07-05T22:27:00.005-05:00

Kate chillin' in her boat.

Brett: What?? More pictures?

Goggle Time!!!

Cast of Characters

2010-07-05T22:23:00.001-05:00

Check out our Cast of Characters

VBS - Check!

2010-07-05T21:56:00.008-05:00

Time to sing

Pastor Chris braving the tough crowd.

They all love decorating t-shirts.

And cookies.

Dedicated volunteers reading to the kids. How great are they??!!

Time to watch the daily skits.

Another successful VBS down.

WIRELESS!!!

2010-06-26T11:34:00.001-05:00

I have wireless internet in my house now!!!