two kids and a blog

Aloha 6!!!

2008-08-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

Here is our birthday girl, family, and friends at her luau party.

Yummy snowcones!!!

Nana & Papa

The jello fish bowls didn't turn out so well.

An artsy photo of our favorite artist

Kids vs Dads Kickball Game
Both sides are claiming victory!

Youngest party goer

I love you 6 year old!!!

A special thank you goes out to my dad and sister

for helping us get the yard party worthy!

Food for Thought

2008-08-05T09:04:00.000-07:00

Chris found this on the news and I thought it was interesting.

Wanted: FUN

2008-08-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

My youngest has just informed me that I'm not always that much fun.

My first reaction was to list all the ways that I am fun.
Remind her just how fortunate she is to have me as a mom.
I thought of going down the there are children in the world who would love to have me as a parent road.

After collecting my thoughts, I started to smile and realized I must be doing something right. Being part of a family isn't all fun and games all the time. Although, I have to admit I would enjoy freedom to play most of the time. The dishes and laundry really aren't that much fun either. I'm a kid at heart! For now we will just have to work the balancing act. So I'm off to attend a kid led dance class in the basement!

Catch of the day

2008-07-28T22:41:00.000-07:00

We were invited to go to my sister in law's grandparents' farm for my brother in law's birthday. The kids were so excited! They found out they were going to go fishing in a pond. So with pink Barbie poles in hand and plenty of stinky bait they set out to caught their first fish. Here is the result:

Olivia was so delighted that she actually caught a fish! Elaina on the other hand decided it was gross and that is was more fun to caught fireflies!

Summer Fun

2008-07-22T17:23:00.000-07:00

Sorry for my bloggy absence. I once thought I was a summer blogger and used the excuse that I was so busy during school keeping up with kids, dance, work, etc. Now I must confess I think that I must just be lazy. So anyway here is a little about where I've been spending my time.

Me, Olivia, Annie, and Nana blueberry picking

Girls at Magic House

Cousin Henry at the waterworks

We found a beach in the middle of St. Louis :)

Walking with Papa at the river front

630 feet above ground

Not matter how often I see the Arch I still stand in awe

My sweet sister and the girls

Henry at his big Tball game
I can't believe summer is passing by so quickly. I'm planning to spend the rest of it sleeping in and soaking up fun time.

Sick of being sick...

2008-06-18T20:58:00.000-07:00

I've been very under the weather lately. I spent a few days with a high fever and now have a sore throat. My husband had to spend his father's day with me in urgent care. He is such a sweetheart! After two hours, a throat swab, and three blood samples the doctor said it will just have to run its course and I should be on the tail end.

So the girls and I have been home bound for the last several days. I have to say they have been wonderful! They have been helping each other. They had made their own lunch when I was resting. This may not seem like much to some of you but for us this was HUGE. You have to understand that our girls enjoy a pampered life. Our youngest especially is known to climb up into her chair and start the long order of everything she would like for lunch down to the little details like how it should be cut and what sauces should accompany it. Bless her heart! I love that she's a girl who knows what she wants but being the short order cook gets a little old. It really isn't their fault I've always been happy to wait on them. I just never realized how sweet it is to see them care for each other.

They cleaned their rooms, dressed themselves without being asked, and solved their own sibling quarrels. WOW! I think I've underestimated them! Even though I've hated being sick it has given me time to reflect on how big our girls have grown and how important it is to let them see what they can do for themselves.

One Word Meme

2008-06-07T10:30:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by my dear friend Jamie for a fun meme! Each answer can only be one word.

1. Where is your cell phone?
Kitchen

2. Your significant other?
Creative

3. Your hair?
Boring

4. Your mother?
Heaven

5. Your father?
Determined

6. Your favorite thing?
Chocolate

7. Your dream last night?
Odd

8. Your favorite drink?
Tea

9. Your dream/goal?
Organized

10. The room you are in?
Office

11. Your hobby?
Stamping

12. Your fear?
Rejection

13. Where do you want to be in 6 year?
Traveling

14. Where were you last night?
Track

15. What you are not?
Perfect

16. Muffins?
Yummy

17. The last thing you did?
Laundry

18. What are you wearing?
Shorts

19. Something you are not wearing?
Watch

20. Your mood?
Happy

21. Your summer?
Relaxing

22. Person you tag?
Chris

I've finally returned from my blogging hiatus. . .

2008-03-11T17:43:00.000-07:00

The last several weeks have pasted by so quickly for me. I'm sure that is a sign I'm entirely too busy and should cut some things out of our schedule. That is just so difficult to do.

We have been following the Live Like You Were Dying series at our church. It has been a great opportunity for me to focus on what is truly important in my life. It has been tough at times to really look at myself and see what God must be seeing. I want to truly love deeper and speak sweeter. Don't just pretend that you love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Romans 12:9-10

God is slowly peeling away the crusty layers of my heart and showing me the way to genuinely love others as well as myself. Some times this process isn't very pretty. I've seen ways that I've failed and need to mend relationships. I've seen how carrying the heavy weight of unforgiveness can change the filter through which I experience those relationships. I'm so thankful that God is with me for the long haul! May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones. 1 Thessalonians 3:13

Elaina had so sweetly reminded me of how tender God's love is for us. I was having a rough morning. I was asked to sub for a teacher friend and I was already feeling over tired. I wanted to help out my friend so I agreed. Elaina woke up feeling tired and cranky. She also complained of feeling dizzy and having a headache. Since time was short for finding a new sub I called Nana to see if she would keep Elaina. After she said she would love to, I felt so sad. Not sad because she was willing to love on Elaina when she need it but because I selfishly wanted to be the one to comfort her. Elaina heard me telling her daddy my feelings. She held both of my hands in hers and said it will be okay Mommy because you are in my heart. A great reminder that all will be okay because God is always with us in our heart!

Conversations in the Car

2008-02-04T21:01:00.000-08:00

On the way home from school today, I hear Elaina tell her sister....

God made you for singing because you are good at it!

He made me for break dancing! :)

I better be on the lookout for parachute pants!

Thursday 13: Snow Day

2008-01-31T17:59:00.000-08:00

13 Reasons to love a snow day!

Sleeping in
Extra cuddles from my girls
Playing outside in the snow
One of a kind snowmen
Hot Cocoa
Hearing lots of infectious giggles
Wearing comfy clothes all day
Reading a good book
Catching up on TV shows
Reading blogs
Nature is beautiful dressed all in white
Warm soup
Time at home with family

I'm not completely convinced that membership has its privileges

2008-01-14T19:48:00.000-08:00

I've joined an elite group of special friends in a new club where dues are paid with Mommy guilt. You can read their stories here or here (see point #2).

At least I'm in great company!!!

Friday was one of those days where I was busy back to back with people to meet or errands to run. After a long tiring day, I managed to finish my grocery shopping and hop in the car to drive to school to pick up my oldest. WOW! As I drive towards the loop I realize the cars aren't lined up halfway to the stoplight. I'm thinking I'm going to get a great parking spot. Two seconds later it dawns on me....school pick up was an hour early today and I'm not 30 minutes early...I'm actually 30 minutes late!!! At least, I still got a great parking spot. Olivia was pretty good about it and let me off the hook after I promised to not let it happen again.

Waste of money take 2

2007-12-27T10:34:00.000-08:00

I accidently posted from my draft on the last post before I was finished.
Here is the scoop:

These are tooth tunes. They look like so much fun on the web page and it is a great idea to get kids to brush longer but . . . you have to push way too hard to bend the brush part against your teeth to hear the music. It has made brushing time more complicated. Did I mention that they cost $7.84 at Walmart?

A waste of money . . .

2007-12-26T23:49:00.001-08:00

tooth tunes

Shopping for Dad

2007-12-23T22:11:00.000-08:00

The girls are finally at the age where they are fun to take shopping. They have their own gift ideas for people and they have their opinions about what I've picked out as well. We decided to go to Target to look for some presents for Daddy. After ruling out that he didn't really need a boy Barbie or Cabbage Patch Doll we headed to the men's clothing department. Olivia spots the T-shirt section and yells let's get Daddy a shirt that says and I quote "My nuts are bigger than your nuts" and there is a cartoon of a squirrel lifting a barbell with acorns for weights. I thought the teenage boy next to us was going to pass out from trying to hold in his laughter. One reason why this particular T-shirt topic is so funny to my kids is that my sister bought them this Usborne book. It really is a cute book if you can look past the main topic. Kids love it because the little squirrel slips through slots in the pages as you read the story asking have you seen my nuts? My husband laughs every time the kids ask me to read it. Anyway, I think that is why the girls thought Daddy would like the squirrel T-shirt. Next, Olivia yells okay then lets get him the T-shirt that says "I love hot moms!" If it wasn't printed as a plural I'd buy it in an instant. I decided it was time to move away from the T-shirt section. After shopping for over an hour we finally agreed on some gifts for daddy.

Merry Christmas Meme

2007-12-08T18:30:00.000-08:00

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? I use both depending on the shape of the gift.

2. Real tree or artificial? Artificial but one Christmas when I was 7 my whole family stayed at my grandparents' farm. We all went out in the woods to pick out the perfect tree, chop it down, and drag it home. It was very snowy and fun!

3. When do you put up the tree? After Thanksgiving

4.When do you take the tree down?After New Year's

5. Do you like eggnog? It is okay. My husband and daughter love it so we drink it every year!

6. Favorite gift received as a child? Donny and Marie Osmond record player with a microphone. Think along the lines of an early karaoke machine. I got the Donny and Marie Barbie dolls that year also complete with purple socks.

7. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes, we have a few. My favorite is an advent nativity that is magnetic so the kids can add to the scene and lead up to Baby Jesus on Christmas Day!

8. Easiest person to buy for?My sister

9. Hardest person to buy for?My husband. His birthday is 3 days after Christmas! It is a challenge to make sure his birthday is not over shadowed by Christmas which adds more pressure to getting the "right gift" (see # 14).

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? One piece pajamas with a flap in the back. I was 18 years old.

11. Mail or e-mail Christmas cards? Mail. There is just something special about sending cards the old fashion way. I also look forward to receiving mail around Christmas time.

12. Favorite Christmas movie? White Christmas

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? I usually start in the fall. I have to use my time wisely without kids.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? I honestly don't remember doing this. I genuinely enjoy gift giving. I usually try to get just the right gift for the person it is intended. This has caused some trouble for my husband and me because I sometimes stress over getting just the right gift.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? My mom used to make the best breakfast casserole.

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear

17. Favorite Christmas song? Breath of Heaven (Mary's Song)

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home?Usually we travel to see my side of the family but we are staying home this year. My husband has wanted a Christmas morning at home since Olivia was born. I'm looking forward to sharing this year at home with him and the girls.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? No

20. Angel on the tree top, or a star? We have an angel from my childhood that my mother made.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or Christmas morning? We've always waited for Christmas morning.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Out of town traffic!!! It really takes the fun out of shopping!

23. What I love most about Christmas? Time spent with my family and the tenderness of the Christmas story.

Feel free to join in on the meme fun!

Animals gone wild....

2007-12-05T18:50:00.000-08:00

To set up this story I need to explain that we live in a subdivision that is outside of town. It's not uncommon to see wildlife. We've had turkeys, deer, owls, groundhogs, raccoons, opossums, and skunks visit our yard a time or two. I've never lived outside of town so this animal thing is new to me. I've even started to enjoy seeing them and have been known to stop and watch for awhile but this morning's sighting was a little bizarre. I woke to find the strangest of wildlife grazing in our front yard just a few feet from our front window. I ran to get my camera because I knew it would make a fantastic photo for my post but it ran off before I could get the case open. You'll just have to take my word on this one......there stood a beautiful white and gray speckled horse. Elaina fell in love instantly and ask if we could keep it to help Daddy cut the lawn. If he comes to visit again I guess I'll have to brush up on some lasso skills.

I'm thankful for funny photos!

2007-11-29T19:52:00.000-08:00

Time out!

2007-11-19T21:28:00.000-08:00

tired
cranky
irritable
distracted
raising her voice
forgetting to be polite
leaving her room a mess

All great reasons for a time out but what do you do when it is mommy who needs it?

The worst part about my bad behavior is that Olivia had been politely asking for my attention this last weekend. She even left me a note and casually left it on the floor in my path. I saw her drop something but it took me two hours to finally read it. Not one of my better mommy moments. I told her I loved her and gave her a quick hug. Then went back to my Saturday list of things to do and she went to play with her sister.

I little while later she ask for attention again. I chatted with her for a few minutes got her a snack and then went back to my list. I did play a game with the girls that night but I remember feeling rushed and trying to hurry to finish so I could get them in bed on time.

Sunday was church and then grocery shopping. Olivia had a Brownie activity that afternoon so she and I stayed in town together and had some free time. She wanted to go to Target and look at toys. I remember feeling distracted and thinking about how I was going to get Christmas shopping finished. We then had time in the van to wait for our friends and she ask me to play Barbies. I wrinkled my face so she said forget it.

My heart just aches for a do over. All Olivia will remember from this weekend was that Mommy was too busy to really focus on her. Thanks Jen for reminding me of our message from church. It helped me to slow down and realign my heart with God's plan for me. I now see where God was building in time for the two of us to be together but I was being disobedient. I wrote Olivia a heart felt note and ask for her forgiveness. She read my note then ran in to hug me and let me know I was forgiven. WOW! I'm so thankful for God's grace!

Question of the Day

2007-11-14T20:40:00.000-08:00

When did pipe cleaners become chenille rods?

2007-11-13T20:34:00.000-08:00

I finally figured out this fancy signature thing with a little help from my tech support!

Virtual Infestation

2007-11-13T17:53:00.001-08:00

Dear Fellow Bloggers,
Please excuse Michelle from her blogging absence. Not only has she had a lack of creativity lately but her home has been taken over by these vermin. She is trying desperately to stay on top of her household duties but then must contend with the long wait line for the computer. If your household is free of these critters, she recommends you keep it that way. They are extremely hard to resist: their cute turned up noses, quirky smiles, silky soft coats. They really are just stinkin' cute! They are great pets because your kids care for them via the Internet. It just cuts into your blog time. Thank you for your understanding in this matter!
Sincerely,
Your Long Lost Blog Friend

Sweetness

2007-10-15T12:39:00.000-07:00

Summer 2005

Wedding Bliss

2007-10-11T19:11:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from my cousin's wedding! Enjoy!

Daddy and his girls

It occurred to me that in a blink we will be at their weddings!

This is where Elaina stayed during the receiving line. She said her feet hurt. Aren't your feet suppose to hurt at weddings? She usually is very excited about new shoes- but not today!

Our star! Olivia LOVED greeting everyone and let all the guests make over her cuteness! She danced the entire time at the reception even if she was the only one on the dance floor! It was so great to see her fully enjoying herself!

The Kiss ~ Yuck!!!!!

The girls right before the wedding!

Tidbits of Wisdom: Preschool Edition

2007-09-22T12:18:00.000-07:00

I love how children are so honest in their answers and how they share their thoughts freely. I feel honored to get a glimpse into how they see the world. Here is one of those moments to remind us adults that little ones are always watching and learning from us.

We have been studying transportation at preschool. Talking about all things that go. We are also talking about colors so we made stoplights. At circle time we pointed to the colors on the stoplight and I ask them to tell me what cars should do when each color lights up. They did great for red and green when we got to yellow they all looked a little stumped then a sweet daughter of one of your dear friends excitedly shouts "I know, I know it tells you to go really really fast!" :)

Thursday 13 : Reasons why I've been away from the blogging world

2007-09-20T13:53:00.000-07:00

I'm still here and I apologize for my lack of blog material. Here is my attempt to justify my time away. It was nice to be missed! At least my friends noticed! :)

Working part time had really changed our family schedule. I'm really humbled to think that there are many single moms who work full time. I have a new found respect! My husband has been so helpful or our household would have been very cranky!

Laundry, laundry, and more laundry (enough said)

My family is starting to think that pizza is a staple food!

Dishes, dishes, and more dishes (I need to invest in paper products)

I caught myself daydreaming that the dance studio where my kids take lessons decided to put in WIFI.

Family weddings are a BIG investment of $$$$ and time!

I've had to spend time shopping for a dress for myself for the above wedding which is a feat in of itself. The fast approaching date is thrown in for fun!

How does a house get so dirty?

School work and meetings

Getting up at 6AM everyday puts a cramp in my creativity

Sweet little faces asking for cuddles. They have said they aren't getting enough mommy time and miss me. How do you argue with that?

I'm looking forward to a date night with my husband!

I came to the realization that I may be a summer blogger!

Thanks for being patient with me friends! I'll try to get my blog groove back!

Thursday 13 first day of school

2007-08-23T10:21:00.000-07:00

As a teacher, I use to gently remind parents that their precious little ones where in good hands and that they will have a great day. One year I had a mom try to hang around outside the window to keep watch for awhile. I even remember commenting on how hard it was for parents to cut the apron strings. When did I turn into one of those moms? Even though this is our third year for the first day of school and being a teacher I should be more at peace but......
I miss my girl!

Top 13 reasons I miss Olivia

Her beautiful singing voice filling the house with music
Her contagious laughter
Her silly sense of humor
Her fashion shows
Hearing her read
Watching her and her sister wrestle and play
Her cuddles
Her smile
Her hugs (her sister said she misses this too)
Hearing the Barbie dialogue
Listening to her share an answer to one of her sister's questions about life
Her dancing feet
Her sweet words of wisdom and faith just when her mommy needs them

I love you Olivia! I hope you enjoy your first day of school!

Look out Hannah Montana. . .

2007-08-11T19:21:00.000-07:00

there's a new star in town!

Olivia has always enjoyed music. She spends most of her time singing, dancing, or playing an instrument. We discovered that we could use music to calm her as a baby. We have made up songs to help her memorize things for school. Chris and I are both excited to see how God will use her talent. She has already told us several times she wants to be on stage. We are so proud of her bravery and never looking back when given the chance to sing or dance in front of others. She melted my heart the first time she sang in front of her church friends.

Out of the Mouth of Babes part 3

2007-08-10T22:15:00.000-07:00

Elaina is fascinated with people who are bald or as she calls it balded. More than a few of the male family members on my side are shall I say hair challenged. Elaina has always had a fondness for them. She even comments on mannequins in stores. I guess she in so interested because it took her a long time to grow her beautiful curls she has now. Here is the before photo.

And the night before she turned five.

What are the chances...

2007-08-10T09:17:00.000-07:00

After posting this last week, we were watching the show Don't Forget the Lyrics. Guess what song was picked? You guessed it! And guess what 3 words the contestant had to fill in? Right again! Chris and I both turned to each other and busted up laughing. I then promptly looked Elaina in the eyes and explained that the correct lyrics are about a T-bird which is a car not a TV. Just in case...

Our Birthday Girl

2007-08-06T11:53:00.001-07:00

I can't believe our baby is 5 years old today! It seems like yesterday, well maybe not yesterday, but not too long ago we brought her home to giggles and squeals from her big sister. I remenber the room spinning as I realize I now had two little ones. Despite all the planning it still didn't sink into my brain until they were both looking at each other face to face in our living room. I was wondering how I was going to take care of two kids that want me at the same time. Luckily, Olivia was made to be a big sister and she loved to help. She even taught me a thing or two about being patient and that things don't have to be perfect. We have made it through so far and it won't be long before I'll look back on this milestone and ponder where did the time go. Here are some pictures of our birthday girl! We love you Elaina! Enjoy!

First day home with big sister

3 months old

almost 2 years old

almost 4 years old

Thursday 13

2007-08-02T19:43:00.000-07:00

13 ways to get your spouse to share his blog!

1. Plan a group intervention meeting with the 4 people who know about it

2. Use taking your oldest child to school at 7AM so he can sleep in as a bargaining tool

3. Whisper sweet nothings into his ear

4. Buy him the guitar he has been wanting

5. Hire someone to finish the basement so he will have more blog time

6. Promise to share the good photos and blog stories

7. Is there any way we can get a tax write off for blogging?

8. Plead and beg

9. Pledge to always comment on his witty posts

10. Offer financial backing

11. Show him the pouty look

12. Offer immunity

13. Find scripture to support sharing with others

Fun, Fun, Fun

2007-08-01T09:44:00.000-07:00

It is so much fun to rediscover music with your kids. We took our girls to see The Beach Boys. Thanks to our friends, Joe and Ami! The girls loved it and have been having fun, fun, fun dancing and singing. My dad is a Beach Boys fan and my sister and I grew up listening to them. We even had regular dance night at our house growing up. I love how music can bring back such vivid memories. We drove my mother crazy. We turned up the music so the entire neighborhood could hear it.

Elaina, our soon to be 5 year old, told me that she likes the Fun, Fun, Fun song the best. Her favorite part.....she'll have fun, fun,fun til her daddy takes the TV away! It is so cute I don't want to tell her about the T-bird. What are the chances she will be on a singing game show where she needs to know the lyrics to win a lot of $$$$.

Technical difficulties

2007-07-30T07:08:00.000-07:00

I've been out of the blogging loop for the last week. We've had trouble with our internet....then company.....then trouble with the internet again. Hopefully all is well and back to regular!

Loud and Clear

2007-07-25T14:00:00.000-07:00

One of my friends Alana had shared a link to a post on Baby Bangs. This post is well worth reading! I too have been feeling a need to strengthen my relationship with the Lord. I even started writing this post a week ago and hesitated to post it. Then.....technical difficulties. We had a great musician named Phil Joel play and share his story at church a week ago. His voice is incredible. He was in the band Newsboys before he and his wife started a ministry called deliberate people. Their mission is to encourage people to spend quality time daily with the Lord. As a mom of small children, it is difficult of me to spend time soaking in God's message for my life. I know how vital this relationship is for my spiritual growth but usually it is a quick prayer here or reading the Bible without digesting it. This is a message heard loud and clear! My Heavenly Father desires an intimate relationship with me and I don't want to be the reason it doesn't happen!

Thursday 13 steps to learn to swim

2007-07-19T16:57:00.000-07:00

1. stand at edge of pool staring at the deep water
2. try not to shiver from the cold breezy weather
3. slowly climb into mommy's arms & cling to her for dear life
4. start screaming at the mention of putting your head under the water
5. wrap feet & legs around mommy so she can't peel you off of her
6. bat hand at swim instructor for taking you from mommy & dunking you under
7. help count to 3 and hold breath before you are dunked
8. bargain with mommy & keep close track of number of times you have to go underwater to move on to next step
9. let mommy drop you in water & kick up to the surface
10. practice turning around in the water when dropped in
11. swim from mommy to the edge of the pool with your face in the water
12. jump in pool to mommy & swim back to edge
13. stand at edge of pool staring at the really deep water & know you can swim without help

Elaina~we are so proud of you for being brave and believing in yourself!

It's Official...

2007-07-18T17:40:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be teaching preschool next year! I've been praying about this for awhile now-several years in fact. It is usually hard for me to start something new but seeing how God has been leading me to this point over the last 3 years has given me peace. I'm looking forward to spending time with little ones and this is a great part time position for me. It will give me a chance to use my degree and still have time for my girls. I'm really going to miss spending time at MOPS meetings with my dear friends though. MOPS has been an amazing part of my life! It is a life changing ministry! So here's to a new path and hopefully lots of cute blog material! :)

Thursday 13

2007-07-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

13 ingredients for a fancy tea party

1. pink gingham tea set
2. table and chairs
3. tea (of course)
4. sugar and cream (in this case milk)
5. sparkly crown or fur hat
6. lots of jewelry
7. graham crackers with icing
8. San Francisco (favorite kitten Beanie Baby)
9. fancy napkins
10. tablecloth
11. frilly dresses
12. flowers for centerpiece
13. turquoise socks and golden shoes

Our KC trip

2007-07-09T18:09:00.000-07:00

Here are some highlights of our family vacation to Kansas City. It is a very fun place to take kids. We ran out of time and energy before we ran out of fun stuff to do! I'll also answer Janelle's BIG question.....where did we eat? Here is a picture from one fun place we ate called The Crayola Cafe. The kids loved it! This restaurant is all about the kids! Elaina told me to tell you it is extra great because it is next to the really girlie store with all things pink, sparkly, and furry. One of my favorite days was spent at the fountains outside of the Crown Center. The kids ran and splashed. Chris and I had a chance to visit with each other. The weather was beautiful so we had a picnic lunch.
We then went to the Kaleidoscope art studio for kids which is a part of Hallmark. The kids have access to all kinds of materials to be creative and make whatever their little hearts desire! And the best part.....it was FREE! Who is that handsome guy looking over my shoulder?To top off a delightful day, Chris took us to eat at The Melting Pot. This is one of the best restaurants. It is pricey but well worth every penny. Everything is cooked fondue style at your table. The chocolate is so incredibly scrumptious as you can tell from the girls' faces. If someone could put heaven in a bowl this is it!

The next day we ventured out into Kansas City, Kansas to find the T-Rex restaurant. I'm a little embarrassed to admit that food really did dictate the schedule. This is a fantastic restaurant recommended by one of our friends, Jennifer. I couldn't even begin to describe the atmosphere. It is one of those things you need to experience for yourself.

We then attempted to expose our children to some culture and took them to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Contemporary Art. They were very bored! Museums with priceless art on display is not the place to take tired dancing princesses.
We ended the day by going to get some yummy cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory. It is very difficult to pass up the chance for some Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake! I'm wishing I had another slice right now! On a side note-I highly recommend eating lunch or supper there if you get a chance. I've been to the one in St. Louis and have planned entire shopping trips around being able to eat there!
On our last day, we walked to Union Station. It is a train station from 1914. I was in awe thinking of all the people and their life stories as they passed through this building. Happy times of seeing a loved one arrive from the train or maybe starting a new phase of their lives by moving or going to war. We took the kids to Science City which is a fun interactive science museum inside the station. They had a Dino Lab where you could watch scientists working on real dinosaur fossils and spend time digging for some on your own. There were fun science experiments about weather and space. They also had underground city utility tunnels for climbing and sliding. We ended our trip by eating at Harvey House. A diner in Union State with great burgers, malts, and homemade pies! Sorry I went a little picture crazy!

Home Sweet Home

2007-07-08T17:55:00.000-07:00

We are home from our travels and ready to get back into the blogging. My friend, Janelle, is so right about looking at life experiences through the eyes of a blogger. I took pictures like the paparazzi and caught myself imagining creative titles and post material. What has happened to me?

Out of the Mouth of Babes part 2

2007-07-08T15:42:00.000-07:00

On vacation in KC, our 4 1/2 year old, Elaina asked us at the baseball game why does that man want people to buy bug bites. It was a vendor walking up and down the aisles selling Bud Light.

Disclaimer: I'm truly a Cardinals fan!!! We just decided to take in a game since it was the 4th of July. Half way through the game my husband and I looked at each other and said at the same time it just isn't the same. We missed our Cards! The Royals do have a beautiful field and the kids had fun mostly because of the food. I think Elaina watched the food vendors more than the game! Here are some pictures to enjoy. By the way, the fireworks got rained on and I happened to take pictures of the only two that worked.

July 5, 1997

2007-07-03T22:23:00.000-07:00

The right wedding gown......$200.00

Perfect pair of shoes to go with gown.......$30.00

French manicure..$16.00

Hair stylist for morning of wedding.......$24.00

Seeing the smile on my soon to be husband's face......priceless

Happy Anniversary Chris! It has been 10 years since we said I DO but it is fresh in my memory! I'm looking forward to many more years with you! I love you!!!

Out of the Mouth of Babes

2007-07-01T10:49:00.000-07:00

My 7 year old daughter Olivia asked me why is W called "double u" when it really looks like a "double v"?

Blog Disclaimer

2007-07-01T10:26:00.000-07:00

Before my friend Janelle explodes with blog envy, I have to confess...my sweet husband suprised me with the new blog banner. He is the savvy tech guy behind my tech coolness.

Thursday 13

2007-06-28T22:29:00.000-07:00

Since I'm visiting my sister who lives close to St. Louis, I decided to list my favorite places to visit there.

1. The Zoo

2. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

3. The Magic House

4. Fox Theater

5. Grant's Farm

6. Any restaurant on The Hill

7. The Arch

8. The Botanical Gardens

9. Busch Stadium

10. The Old Spaghetti Factory

11. The Science Center

12. The Galleria Shopping Mall

13. The River Front

I've Been Tagged!

2007-06-28T21:29:00.000-07:00

My friend Alana has tagged me to share 8 random facts about myself so here it goes...

1. I was on the pom pon squad in high school and we won 1st in state competition!

2. I tried out for the Sugar Bears dance squad in college and didn't make the team.

3. I stood in line for several hours to get Ricky Schroeder's autograph when I was 13 and he was on Silver Spoons.

4. I love to read! I truly am a book worm!

5. I have a Masters degree in teaching.

6. When I was 16, I almost got kicked off of a go cart course for driving to slow. As if that wasn't embarrassing enough, I had my helmet on wrong the whole time. I was looking through the neck hole. This really is one of those things you need to see on video to appreciate.

7. I really dislike sharing ice cream with someone if we have to use the same spoon. It drives me crazy when they only take part of the ice cream off the spoon then stick it back into the bowl. I know it is weird. I can't explain it.

8. I love to make cakes for my kids' birthdays! It can be a little stressful but it is something I can't give up! I enjoy being creative and I love sweets!

iPod Shuffle

2007-06-25T20:03:00.000-07:00

As I was strolling through some blogs I found this fun iPod game.

Instructions:1. Put your music player on shuffle.
2. Press forward for each question.
3. Use the song title as the answer to the question even if it doesn’t make sense. NO CHEATING!

How do you feel today? Don't Ask Me Why by Billy Joel
What’s your outlook on life? Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield
What does your family think of you? Free Fallin' by Tom Petty and the Hearthbreakers
What do your friends think of you? Tea and Sympathy by Jars of Clay
What do your exes think of you?Glory by Casting Crowns
How’s your love life?Love and Peace or Else by U2
How will your love life be in the future?Mexico by James Taylor
Are you good at school? Excuse Me Mr. by No Doubt (probably not w/ that attitude)
Will you be successful? Something in the Way She Moves by James Taylor
What song should they play on your birthday?Let Your Mercy Rain by Chris Tomlin
What song should they play at your graduation?God's Been Good To Me by Keith Urban
The Soundtrack of your life?Don't Do Me Like That by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
You and your best friends are? Nobody Drinks Alone by Keith Urban ;)
Happy times: Gravity by John Mayer
Sad times:Are You Gonna Go My Way by Lenny Kravitz
Every day:I Won't Back Down by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
For tomorrow: Just A Girl by No Doubt
For you:Voice of Truth by Casting Crowns
What does next year have in store for me?Freedom by George Michael
What do I say when life gets too hard?There Goes The Neighborhood by Sheryl Crow(Maybe I should share this one with my friend Alana)
What do you want as your career?Waiting For That Day by George Michael
Your favorite saying?All You Need Is Love by The Beatles
How will I die?The Stranger by Billy Joel (Sounds scary)
If you own an iPod or MP3, tag, you're it!

Kansas City or bust

2007-06-25T11:40:00.000-07:00

We are heading to KC next week and I wondered if anyone had any family fun ideas for the area. Restaurants? Museums? Attractions? BBQ? Chris would like to take the girls to hear some jazz. Any suggestions?

Wishing Wells

2007-06-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday on the car ride home my youngest daughter stated, "I wish we had a wishing well!"
How ironic! When I ask her what she would wish for she said, "I want to be a mermaid!" Her older sister replied, "I would wish for more wishes"!

Assisted Living

2007-06-21T19:49:00.000-07:00

I've been helping my grandparents transition into assisted living over the last week. My perception of group living has completely changed. As a matter of fact- I think I would like to move in myself. It is like living in a vacation resort. They have a large buffet breakfast every morning and they are waited on for lunch and dinner-which include soup, salad, as many side items as your heart desires, a main course, and dessert. WOW! Now I call that service. Most of us with small children don't even get to sit down to eat our meals unless it is in the car after going to a drive thru. The staff washes sheets and remakes the beds weekly. And if I haven't already sold you on these living arrangements-the residents get a free manicure and massage every month. So I ask why isn't there assisted living for families of young children? We need assistance also. We would love to be pampered and served. I am really thrilled for my grandparents as they embark on this new season of their lives. They are having a great time. I wonder if I'd cramp their style if I moved in next door to them. :)

I'm a Blogger!

2007-06-20T18:29:00.000-07:00

Yeah!! I have finally entered into the world of blogging! A group of my friends have been blogging for a little over a month and they have all been enjoying themselves so much I had to join in the fun! So I'll dedicate my first blog entry to them. They know who they are. They have dirty dishes stacked in the sink, piles of laundry waiting to be folded, and drive thru employees who know them on a first name basis. I'm sure we will all be in therapy some day for this but it is going to be a blast! Happy Blogging!