"How Could I Ask For More?"

Don't Worry, Be Happy

2008-11-05T08:10:00.002-06:00

"I've learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions and not on our circumstances." ~ Martha Washington

School Days

2008-10-27T14:22:00.002-05:00

Joel's first school picture:

Monday, Monday...

2008-10-27T14:18:00.003-05:00

I'm glad I'm not the only one. I found this on Monster.com today:

If you don't know why this is funny, check this out.

PS - Facebook has trumped blogger. I'm sorry...

I Can See Clearly Now...

2008-08-26T10:07:00.004-05:00

So, I wanted to post a pic of Lindsay in her new glasses. I didn't get to take one last night with the Nikon, so here are a couple from my phone this morning:

Also, since I was getting a pic off my phone, I (finally) downloaded some other pics that have been on there for months. Here are the ones I deemed blog-worthy.

Joel riding his bike in wal-mart before we actually paid for it:

Joel's first bus ride and his new teacher:

It Cuts Both Ways

2008-08-23T22:25:00.005-05:00

This morning, Lindsay informed me (of her own free will) that she needed a haircut. I asked her how short she wanted it, she replied with her typical "I dunno". So, we checked out some pictures on the internet, and she picked a chin length bob with bangs. Here are before and after pics. I am pretty proud of the job I did on a moving 2 year old target! She is VERY proud of her new 'do. :)

'Cause I'm a Woman, W-O-M-A-N!

2008-08-12T08:42:00.001-05:00

This was the quote on my calendar at work. BTW, thank you to Jamie for this little calendar! I enjoy the quotes. I have several taped up at work, including:

"Being a woman is a terribly difficult trade since it consists principally of dealing with men."
Joseph Conrad

Great Is The LORD!

2008-08-12T08:36:00.001-05:00

My husband is officially a Wolf. PTL!!!!!!!!!! Check out his blog for more details...

I really don't have any other news. Our life has been revolving around Mike's job "saga" and watching the Olympics. Both are too stressful. I need a break...

XOXO

J-Nice

You otta' be in pictures

2008-07-26T19:13:00.003-05:00

First, check out my kids in this article by my best friend Amy.

Second, check out these pics taken last week at a local photo studio.

Don't Know What You've Got Til It's Gone (Redux)

2008-06-20T10:57:00.003-05:00

Our home AC is being replaced today. We're broke and can't go on vacation, but our house will be cool again. We've had problems with it for 2 years. I am honestly over the money. I just want a working system. Our living room hasn't been below 78 degrees since...

My last day of teaching for this summer was yesterday. I hope I wasn't as difficult a student as these have been for me when I was working on my MBA.

We've been living in my parents' guest room all week. The kids call it "camping" because they are on a blow up bed. Too cute.

On my birthday, the quote on my calendar was:

"You've gotta be original, because if you're like someone else, what do they need you for?"
Bernadette Peters

:)

Don't know what you've got 'til it's gone

2008-05-13T10:07:00.003-05:00

Long time, no blog! Here's what has been going on.

Some not so good news, my hard drive crashed at home on 4/24. I've been spending evenings (into the wee hours of the morning) rebuilding accounting data and such. No fun!!

On March 2nd, I had a casual conversation with a friend at church about a job opportunity with his father's company. On March 3rd, I interviewed with them, just to see what the job was all about. On March 4th, I took the job. I started back to work full time on March 10th!

This job is my dream job. Of course, as with all jobs, it has moments of stress and frustration. The first few weeks were hard because I had to learn a ton of stuff in just a few days. The lady I replaced was here for 15 years! Anyway, I am now the Controller for Heartland Homes. I negotiated a 4 day work week, which I love. I am a very lucky woman to have this job!

In the meantime, the kids started full-time at a new school, which I won't name for security reasons. They love their new school, and both of them are really doing well with the change. Even the first week went smoothly for them. Lindsay has already learned how to count to ten in Spanish at school. Joel has about 3 girlfriends and can now write his entire name (legibly).

Joel is almost done with his first year of Pre-K. He'll do another year of Pre-K next year.

Now that I'm working full-time, I am really enjoying my evenings with the kids. Our current family thing is getting in the hot tub at sunset. The kids think it their own personal swimming pool.

I really will try to get on here more often. My kids say things everyday that are "blog-worthy", but I've just not had the time (or desire) to work on the computer at home much lately.

XXOO

Light the Fire!

2008-02-20T23:33:00.003-06:00

Today, as we were driving to school, there was a controlled fire by the side of the road. Here's the conversation:

Joel: Mommy, where does the smoke go?
Me: It goes up and around and just about everywhere!
Joel: Smoke can do anything. Just like Jesus.

Priceless.

Thank you God for sending angels like Gina Cooke who have given Joel a voice! For many months, I thought these moments would never come. Joel's progress is a miracle!

Now, if we can just get him to stop telling Ms. Cooke "NO" at school, that would rock.

:)

That Thing You Do

2008-02-08T13:27:00.000-06:00

This idea is from Jan's blog:

The idea: create a fake band and their first album. Here’s how it works:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Random The first article title on the page is the name of your band.
http://www.quotationspage.com/random.php3 The last four words of the very last quote is the title of your album.
http://www.flickr.com/explore/interesting/7days/ The third picture, no matter what it is, will be your album cover. Editor’s note: Make sure that the image is properly licensed for remixing or derivative works.

Here's how mine turned out. :)

Crazy...

2008-01-11T21:25:00.000-06:00

So, it's been just nuts. I promise, after basketball season is over and I'm not working 4 jobs, I will update you (all 3 of you) on everything from November through now!

In the meantime, my mom sent me these pictures. Joel was being creative with PaPa's garden stakes the other day.

It's the most wonderful time of the year?!?!?

2007-12-18T11:59:00.000-06:00

Right??

I've been so busy that I just downloaded pictures from the end of October through yesterday from the camera. Sheesh! I'm working late nights at Kohl's, and I had 2 major events last week that kept my plate very full. I'm enjoying not having any major deadlines in the very near future. (The first person who mentions year-end or tax season to me will get it!)

Here's a quick catch up post:

Halloween!

Lindsay, at her 2nd birthday party!

Dancing to the Dora B-Day Card.

Lindsay got a new playhouse for her birthday!

Peekaboo!

"Ding-Dong!" Lindsay let Joel in. Once.

With Grandma Linda @ Great-Grandma's Thanksgiving

Yes, I'm officially 2.

Joel, and his "fork-holding-the-triangle" invention.

Daddy reading to his 2 biggest fans!

Also, after the success of the Windsong concert on Sunday night, a fellow board member sent me this incredible flower arrangement.

Are you done with your shopping yet???

There is a reason

2007-10-22T20:42:00.000-05:00

My last post was October 3rd. Since then, we've had some major developments in our family life.

On the 4th, the kids and I rode with my Mom & Dad in their RV to Albuquerque for the balloon fiesta. We had fun camping and visiting with John, Mary & their girls. We also spent time with my Uncle John & Aunt Janie.

Joel turned 4 on the 14th! We had a very fun party here at the house. Here are a few pictures from that day:

Grandma Lisa made the cake!

Joel's ready to eat cake, where's Lindsay's?

Silly Swinger

Hitting the (very old!) Pinata

Sharing new toys with friends (ha!)

After several weeks of testing, red tape, and (almost) begging, Joel is now enrolled in the "Developmentally Delayed" Pre-K at Deer Creek. We are thrilled! We are so thankful that Joel will be getting appropriate, professional help with his delays. We have no doubt that he will be able to be in a regular kindergarten class when the time comes. Praise the Lord for this new school, and for his new teachers, who not only have the proper training, but the proper education to help Joel and other like him. Having said all that, I was reminded today that I should be thankful every day for the health of my children, that they do not have physical or mental disabilities that cannot be overcome.

Here is a picture of his first day at school today. It was raining. :)

Tonight, we had dinner at Mike's parents' home. Joel had fun "helping" Grandpa play the guitar.

On a "not so cute note", Lindsay got her first time out last Thursday. She was standing on the end tables, climbing from sofa to chair to table to chair. (a la Trinity) After 3 times of telling her no, and her almost falling, she got a time out. It didn't seem to phase her much.

So, it has been a busy 3 weeks! Mike has his first scrimmage this week, so we'll be off and running with basketball. I think the kids will enjoy going to games more than ever this year!

Hope you are equally blessed. :)

Cademon’s Call – There Is A Reason
From the album – Overdressed

Late at night I wonder why
Sometimes I wonder why
Sometimes I'm so tired I don't even try
Seems everything around me fails
But I hold on to the promise
That there is a reason

Late at night, the darkness makes it hard to see
The history of the saints who've gone in front of me
Through famine, plague and disbelief
His hand was still upon them
Cause there is a reason
There is a reason

He makes all things good
He makes all things good
There's a time to live and a time to die
A time for wonder and to wonder why
Cause there is a reason
There is a reason

I believe in a God who sent His only son
To walk upon this world and give His life for us
With blood and tears on a long, dark night
We know that He believed
That there is a reason
There is a reason

For the lonely nights
And broken hearts
The widow's mite
In the rich man's hand
And the continent
Whose blood becomes a traitor
For the child afraid to close their eyes
The prayers that seem unanswered
There is a reason
There is a reason

He makes all things good
He makes all things good
There's a time to live and a time to die
A time for wonder and to wonder why
Cause there is a reason
There is a reason

Brave

2007-10-03T08:29:00.000-05:00

This morning, the kids were eating breakfast at their little table in the kitchen, I was Bullet-ing my breakfast shake, and Nichole Nordeman was singing on the radio.

So long, status quo
I think I just let go
YOU make me want to be brave

Last night, I couldn't sleep. Everyone else was asleep, but I just had too much on my brain. I went for a walk just after midnight. (Don't worry, I took my cell phone.) It's amazing to me that God finds us in the moment we need him. He found me last night. He found me again this morning.

Today, I'm going to be BRAVE and trust God, thanking Him all the way.

Ok, I'm done with that. Here are some pictures to enjoy!

Dining al fresco

Swing Kids :)

Blessings on you today!!

Shop 'til you drop

2007-09-12T23:49:00.000-05:00

So, some of you have heard this story. Since a few of the few I told said it was blog-worthy, here it is...

The kiddos and I went to the little Wal-Mart down the road for a few groceries. Joel was in the big part of the cart, Lindsay was pushing the cart, and I was steering from the end.

As we approached the self-checkout, Joel stood up in the cart and proclaimed, "Insert cash or select payment type. Thank you for shopping at Wal-Mart."

The man behind us in line, who was laughing out loud, said, "Shop here much?"

J.

I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues

2007-08-31T22:00:00.001-05:00

So, I had a bad week. It's over now. I'm better now.

In a word, I had a week of resentment. I won't bore you with the details.

Now that I'm better, I thought I'd share some neat pics with you!

Daddy & his Girl:

Joel & PaPa on Mount Scott:

Lindsay wants to be like big brother:

The pics on Mount Scott are from Saturday. Mom & Dad wanted to get the camper out, so we took a "short" trip and saw some nature.

This weekend should be good. We'll be busy, but we'll be together!

XOXO

Don't Cry For Me Mamasita

2007-08-14T15:33:00.001-05:00

So, I was just looking over my Resume and adding my OC class to it. I found this:

"Detailed oriented manager"

MORTIFIED.

Let's Hear It For The Boy & (More) Summertime

2007-08-13T09:16:00.000-05:00

Joel is about 60% potty trained! He's done great, including when we were on vacation. I just thought I'd share. I think Lindsay wants to do it too, but we'll wait a bit. :)

Mike is back to school today. He'll have meetings for 2-3 days before the kids join the teachers. I'm sad summer is over, but we're all ready to have a routine. I am excited about the kids starting Mothers' Day Out this fall. This will be Lindsay's first time, and Joel hasn't been since October of 2006. It will be Mommy's first time to have both kids in school! They are going Tuesday and Thursday. Woo hoo!!

Here are a few more wonderful pictures from the summer. We sure had some adventures this summer!

Lindsay in the Morton's Camper in July

Joel in Grandpa Morton's boots, Camping in July

Buckled in the car seats in my parents RV, July

Mike took this one, I wasn't home. Too cute, and no one was hurt.

The view from our balcony at night, Destin West.

Summertime

2007-08-02T17:51:00.000-05:00

So, we're on vacation. I haven't blogged in 5 weeks. But we're on vacation!! I managed to get ALL of my work caught up, ALL of my laundry put away, and made it on the plane with everything I was supposed to bring. We made it to Florida without any major problems. Here are some pictures of our trip so far.

Joel and Mike on the plane.

Mike was asleep before the flash went off.

Lindsay and Papa on the plane.

Our Condo Building

Moving in to the Condo, with the kids help.

At the pool

At the beach

More to come!!!

Sad Professor (REM)

2007-06-24T07:36:00.001-05:00

So, during the time when I wasn't blogging, I taught my first class at OC. In case this is new news, I'm teaching adjunct for the MBA department. I taught this class online, and it was a very interesting experience.

I did most of my MBA online, and I loved it. Some of my students tried to take advantage of the resources on the Internet and I caught them using uncited sources. Their grades were not as good as I had hoped going in, but that isn't my fault.

Why would you PAY for an education and then CHEAT your way through the class? Are people today so concerned with titles that the initials on your resume are more important than actually learning something?

Completely frustrating.

Too Much Information (The Police)

2007-06-23T22:10:00.001-05:00

I found this on WordSpy.com. I totally get how this guy feels. I don't think Dena reads my blog, but she would get a kick out of this too... :)

e-mail bankruptcy n. The state of being unable or unwilling to read and respond to all the e-mail messages one has received, and so to delete those message and start over again.

Example Citation: Last month, venture capitalist Fred Wilson drew a lot of attention on the Internet when he declared a 21st century kind of bankruptcy. In a posting on his blog about technology, Wilson announced he was giving up on responding to all the e-mail piled up in his inbox.

"I am so far behind on e-mail that I am declaring bankruptcy," he wrote. "If you've sent me an e-mail (and you aren't my wife, partner, or colleague), you might want to send it again. I am starting over."

Been there, haven't done that. Yet...

Summer Lovin'

2007-06-23T14:35:00.000-05:00

So, we've been busier than ever. I'm very sorry for the lack of blogging!

We had 3 weeks of Basketball Camp and Summer League at DCHS. Mike was running the League, and I did all of his accounting. :) The kids enjoyed going up to the school a few times and having lunch or dinner with Daddy. He worked about 60 hours a week, maybe more. We celebrated last night by going on a date, sans kiddos.

We went to the Zoo on Memorial day. Here are a couple of pics from that day:

Riding the tram (don't tell Joel it's not a train!)

At the new Oklahoma Trails exhibit ~ It's awesome!!

Crazy

2007-05-07T20:39:00.000-05:00

So, I haven't blogged in almost two months. I figured I'd better get something up tonight before I hit that mark tomorrow. :(

Last night, we lost power at the house at around 2:30am. It wasn't restored until about 7 tonight. I never realized how much I rely on technology until today.

We've been pretty busy. The kids are growing like crazy. Here are a few pics for you to enjoy.

Playing in Joel's Bed

"Elmo eat it?"

Silly girl

Hit Me With Your Best Shot

2007-03-08T12:38:00.000-06:00

So, I finally downloaded pictures from the camera. Here are a few for you to enjoy!!

Lindsay playing in the (clean) laundry.

I found a TMX Elmo (on sale!) at Kohls. Joel loves him. Lindsay is scared of him. You may want to click on this picture so you can see Lindsay's face. (Unless you have dial-up!?!)

Joel Cool and Sissy in the tub. He won't wear sunglasses outside. I have no idea why.

Stayin' Alive

2007-03-04T22:57:00.000-06:00

We've been so busy I can't see straight. The kids are doing great. Lindsay is walking/toddling everywhere. She's starting to get some confidence and go out on her own more. Joel is in love with life.

And the computer. At this point, he knows how to open the Internet, get to the favorites, and get to SesameStreet.com without help. He mastered navigating the site about 2 weeks ago. I've had to cut him off for fear that he would be on the computer for the entire day. I usually try to limit him to under an hour. He's 3. Shouldn't he be done with one thing and on to the next after 5 minutes? Scary.

Mike is done with basketball and starting baseball. The kids and I are getting to play outside more, which is a nice change of scenery.

I will try to download the pictures from the camera and post them soon. I guess one BAD thing about having a 1GB card is that I don't need to download them for a while. :)

I need a vacation. How about you?

Don't Know What Ya Got Til It's Gone...

2007-03-04T22:51:00.000-06:00

So, you know I posted about my junk mail. It crossed 1,000 on 1/27/07.

5 weeks later:

I've been waiting for it to cross 2,500. I think I'll empty it now and start over.

Of course, the 220 in my GMAIL account are approx. 90% junk.

I don't have enough time to read the emails I want. Who has the time to send out all these emails? I can tell you they aren't stay-at-home moms. 'Nough said.

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes

2007-02-15T23:20:00.000-06:00

So, I get tons of stuff in my email. My "junk mail" is up to 1757 as of tonight.

Some things are helpful. I get loads of "parenting tips" newsletters. This one has me perplexed.

(Quoting something I'm sure is copyrighted with NO intent to make money.)

"Children learn through activities. The new Family Time Activities books use that language to teach children spiritual truths. For example, teach about Daniel's three brave friends in the furnace but cutting out the cardboard men, soaking them in the alcohol/water solution and then lighting them on fire. The alcohol burns but the water protects the cardboard men from burning. Or the oatmeal plague reminds kids of the Israelites who complained. Put some cold wet oatmeal on a child's arm and let him wipe it off with the grace wipes. Just think, all week when you hear whining you can say, "Should we get out the oatmeal?" Kids learn tremendous spiritual truths from these ideas for Family Time in your home."

What do you think? Anyone want to come over and learn about the fiery furnace with my three year old this week?

Um... I'm thinking...

No.

And furthermore, who writes this stuff? I don't know about everyone else's 3-year old, but I'm sure mine would think that if he soaks long enough, he won't burn either. Although there is spiritual application, I'm still thinking... NO.

PS - I found a FREE lesson plan for the "Three Friends" lesson. If you are brave, I guess it could be fun. LESSON

Asleep at the Wheel

2007-02-03T21:48:00.000-06:00

Joel has done this twice in two days. Joel still takes a very good nap (most days), and when he doesn't get it, this is the sort of thing that happens.

That's a peanut butter sandwich in his hands, and remnants of the same on his face.

Unlike her brother, Lindsay loves stuffed animals. Here's a picture I took in the dark with our new camera. It has some sore of fancy flash that works great in the dark. And it didn't wake her up. How cool is that!

Hope your February has started off wonderfully! I'm thankful to be done with January. It's a nightmare month for an accountant...

Oh the weather outside is frightful...

2007-01-26T15:49:00.000-06:00

Oklahoma has the strangest weather. Most of us just don't even want to hear the forecast anymore, because if we wait 5 minutes it will change. Drastically.

I'm convinced that last weeks forecast of 5-10 inches of snow was a conspiracy between the local media and local retailers. We got rain, but the shelves at the grocery store were empty. There was even news coverage of the empty shelves.

So, I say all that to share this.

It is 62 degrees on my back porch.

Happy January.

Stop, in the name of love!

2007-01-26T15:43:00.000-06:00

What is wrong with this picture?

1000 Junk E-mail. Why?!?!?!

Update: The count is now up to 1251. (Feb. 3, 2007, 9 days post-post.)

How Could I Ask For More?

2007-01-19T13:44:00.000-06:00

I know, it's the heading of my blog, but I'm feeling it today.

After a week of waiting, we got the news today that my Mom's cancer has NOT spread anywhere else in her body. PRAISE GOD!!!!!

We are heading to her house tonight for dinner and some grandkid time.

I'm so thankful today that I can't find much to say...

Mike posted a link on his blog to an article in the local paper. It was really nice, and I thought I'd make sure you saw it too.

Both of my kids are napping. The kitchen is clean(er). The snow is on the way. All I need to make the day perfect is a nap!! :)

XOXO

Do you ever wonder?

2007-01-17T00:46:00.000-06:00

What's in a name? Especially a weird one that can't be found anywhere on anything. Except those new ornament places that do it while you wait. I love that. I bought 2 this year.

I found this on a random website. I was thinking about my new niece and what her name might be.

It's some site that eventually tries to get you to buy a report about your first and last name, blah blah blah. Here was the free version of my first name analysis:

Though the name Jeanise creates the urge to understand and help people, we draw to your attention that it causes an emotional intensity and sensitivity that is hard to control.
Your first name of Jeanise has given you a friendly, likeable nature, and you could excel in artistic, dramatic, and musical expression.
With this name, you desire the finer things in life, but you do not always have the resolve and vitality to put forth the effort necessary to fulfil your desires.
Your emotional feelings are easily affected and you will always be involved in other people's problems as a result of your overly sympathetic nature.

Sounds about right.

Ice Ice Baby

2007-01-17T00:32:00.000-06:00

Yeah, I hate that song. But it's the best I can come up with.

My mom updated her website this week while she was iced in. There are some great pics of the kiddos!!

Mike was out of school Monday, Tuesday, and will be Wednesday because of ice that hit us Friday and over the weekend. It's like a mini vay-kay. I've been able to catch up on some work and we've had some fun family time.

Here's what I found tonight for the next 7 days:

I work at home! Let it snow!!!! :) It would be nice if we had something that Joel could actually PLAY in. He doesn't understand why the snow won't move. I keep telling him it's ice, but he keeps saying, "Look at all the beautiful snow!!!". Oh to have the wonder of a 3 year old again...

Where've You Been?

2006-12-30T14:06:00.000-06:00

I think I've used that title before. Oh well...

Sorry it's been so long since I've posted. We've been having TOO MUCH family fun around here! It is so nice being married to a teacher. Having Mike home for 2 weeks is the best for both me and the kiddos.

We had a wonderful Christmas. I hope you did too! I still haven't found homes for all the toys and books the kids received. We are so very blessed...

Here is a picture of Joel at church on Christmas Eve morning. He is becoming my little singer!

And here is a picture of Lindsay in the tub. She's becoming quite the character!

Blessings on you and yours as we start a New Year! I'm in denial. As an accountant, the new year brings lots of year end work that I don't want to think about until Tuesday...

XOXO!!

Oh My O Holy Night

2006-12-12T21:54:00.000-06:00

Picked up on this from Shane's blog.

I laughed pretty hard, then found this.

(Updated) So, you can't see Mariah's O Holy Night. It worked before I posted the link. :(

Did anyone see Oprah yesterday? I DVR'ed it.
Michael Buble and Josh Groban in the same room? Oh my...

More Than Words

2006-11-23T00:47:00.000-06:00

I couldn't sleep, so I spent too much time reading at www.WordSpy.com. I found these words/phrases that the author has posted. I didn't write any of them. I just found them funny!!

squirrel gardening, adj.
The accidental "gardening" that occurs when squirrels transfer seeds and bulbs from one one part of a garden to another, or even between gardens.

copyrighteous, adj.
Relating to a feeling of moral superiority based on one's responsible copyright views and actions.
mental hairball, noun
A word or phrase coughed up at random.

bad tongue day, noun

A day in which a person frequently mispronounces words and stumbles over sentences.

pound-of-cure mode, noun
Troubleshooting a problem that would have been less severe if you had taken steps to prevent it (i.e., if you'd been in ounce-of-prevention mode).

spontaneous program combustion, noun
When an application, which has been running normally for hours and in the absence of any other unusual phenomena, suddenly crashes.

pro-detail, adjective
Euphemism used to put a more positive spin on those people who would otherwise be described as fastidious and anal.

name rackognition, noun
The process of racking your brain in an attempt to recall the name of a person whose name you used to know but have since forgotten.

I wanna hold your ha-a-a-a-and

2006-11-21T15:56:00.000-06:00

Here's a cute pic of Joel and Trin at the mall on Saturday! :) We got to see Trin and Mary for a few hours while they were passing through on the way to Alabama.

I want my baby back baby back baby back

2006-11-15T00:08:00.000-06:00

In about 8 hours, my baby girl will be ONE. I just can't believe it!!! I'm sure there will be more about her special day in a later post, but I thought this would be fun.

If you weren't sure who Lindsay looks like, check out these 2 pics of Mike:

They even have the same hairdo!! :)

Also of note, Linda doesn't look a day older today than she did in the picture of her & baby Mike (above)!

We are here to trick-or-treat...

2006-11-01T21:46:00.000-06:00

I'm really tired and not feeling very witty tonight. So, here are a few pictures of my 2 kiddos all dressed up for trick-or-treating.

It's hard to believe that my baby girl is going to be 1 in two weeks. Time flies...

Things have been very busy. Mike had his first scrimmage and basketball season is upon us. I'll see you all in March. :)

J.

Happy Birthday, Dear JOEL!!!!!!

2006-10-23T20:33:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, 10/14, was Joel's 3rd birthday. We had a small party at McDonalds in Edmond. Joel enjoyed chicken, playing with friends, and icing (which he calls cake).

He also had a family party and Grandma & Grandpa Mortons on Friday (10/20). Here's a picture of both kids enjoying Grandma time on Friday night:

As you can see, Lindsay was sacked out, but that didn't stop Joel from getting Grandma to read him a book! We had a very nice time and Grandpa and Grandma Morton's house.

Here's a picture of him enjoying his birthday present from Grandpa and Grandma Morton today in the backyard!

He also received a table and chair set from the Hankins. He loves it! Here's a picture of him enjoying this gift:

Mike posted similar pictures on his blog, but just in case you don't read his, here are 2 pictures from our Fall Break trip to the Zoo on the Friday:

Lindsay was very entertaining to passers-by. :) She was in the backpack carrier just snoring away for the last 30 minutes or so of our visit.

Joel had a great time riding the tram and seeing all the animals. It was a gorgeous day!!!

Take me up in your hot air balloon

2006-10-11T17:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a great picture of Mom, Mary, Trinity and Lindsay from the Balloon Fiesta on Saturday.

And here's one I took with Mom's camera of Joel looking up at a kite. He was/is afraid of the balloons. Maybe next time...

On the road again!

2006-10-05T22:38:00.000-05:00

We're heading to Albuquerque, NM tomorrow morning at 7am to see John, Mary, Trinity, and about a gazillion hot-air balloons. I should have fun pictures from the weekend to share when we get back next week. If you have stock in McDonalds, this will be a good weekend for you, because Mike will be home alone! :)

Here's a picture I found when I was cleaning off the camera card to get ready for the trip. It's too cute!!! Who's driving that train??

I'm so happy I'm laughing through my tears (Sting)

2006-09-29T14:05:00.000-05:00

So, I'm a bad blogger. But I'm a good mom, so that trumps blogger.

Things have been extremely busy. I'm busy with the kids and with work. The days run together so often that my Outlook calendar is the only reason I have a glimmer of hope of getting somewhere when I'm supposed to. Stress has been pretty high, though not as bad as during the audit. Today I decided that if I couldn't get it all done, it would not be the end of the world. Hence the title.

The kids are doing well. Joel will be 3 in 2 weeks! I can't believe it. Lindsay is cruising like a pro, and I think she'll walk before she turns 1 (in 6 weeks).

I didn't post the GOOD pictures of the kids. Here they are for your enjoyment.

And one of my favorite pictures:

Here's another outtake for you to enjoy:

Don't wanna be... All By Myself... ANYMORE!

2006-09-16T21:42:00.000-05:00

I took the kids to get their pictures taken on Friday. I thought I'd share some of the "outtakes" with you all. Here's my favorite Lindsay outtake.

Say, it's only a paper moon...

2006-09-12T08:45:00.000-05:00

So, Lindsay LOVES paper. Today while I was packing Joel's lunch for school, she found the kleenex box.

We're off to take Joel to school in a bit. Enjoy your day!

PS - Mary: Remember this outfit? We should have the girls wear them when we come in October!!

Doo bee dah deet dah bah deet...

2006-09-07T07:53:00.000-05:00

I found this on a parenting website today. The article was on working at home with kids. :)

"Think of life as jazz — you keep up with the chord changes and the rest is improvisation. "

I thought that was great!

Here's some pictures of the kiddos. The one of Lindsay in the high chair is precious. She loves to make funny faces!!

I hope your day is blessed. We're off to Joel's school in a bit. I don't think either of us realize what 2 days a week is going to be like...

It's the most wonderful time of the year!!

2006-09-05T10:25:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I'm early. But here's why.

Today was Joel's first day at Sonshine School! The highs are only in the low 80's with lows around 62, the house is quiet (Lindsay is taking a nap), the windows are open, the breeze is divine... I love fall!!!!!

Here's a picture of Joel going to school this morning:

And here's one 60 seconds after we got there. He said, "Bye, Mommy." (I'm chopped liver now.)

I love my kids, but school is awesome!

Sometimes a good idea just isn't enough...

2006-09-01T00:04:00.000-05:00

Tonight, I was getting (cheap - $2.38) gas on the way home. Next to me, there was a man filling up his 4 door Ford F150.

Since when is it OK to leave your truck running while getting gas?
AND to have 2 kids in the running truck while getting gas??

Did I miss something??

Oh, by the way... This brainiac was wearing quite a bit of OSU orange.

(I am not a fan of any particular sports team, other than one my husband is coaching. I am simply stating my experience, not my approval or disapproval of any fan of anything.)

:)

(Hum the Jeopardy Theme to yourself)

2006-08-26T12:51:00.000-05:00

What should my kids be for Halloween?

Here are the ones I am thinking about for Lindsay:

I was also thinking that Joel could be a Monkey, and he and Lindsay could match. Is that too cheesy?

My idea for Joel is to dress him up like LEO from Little Einsteins. Mike thinks I should make Lindsay look like Annie, though I'm not sure how I'd do it since she's blonde. I might be able to make her look like June (below with Leo).

So, why don't you all chime in and let me know what you think? :)

Zoom zoom

2006-08-23T22:02:00.000-05:00

I received this picture from Melanie today. It is one from the Zoo last week. :)

Been around the world and I can't even find myself

2006-08-22T08:10:00.000-05:00

Don't worry. I know where my lover is. :)

So, I'm a bad blogger, I guess. I'm trying though! Let's catch up, shall we?

Since the last time we "talked", we've been very busy! On Saturday the 12th, we loaded up the van and went to Tulsa. My Dad and Mom joined us for the trip. We had dinner and stayed the night with my Aunt Mardena and Uncle Bob. We had a great dinner and loads of laughing. Lindsay didn't like sleeping in a strange place so much, but we survived.

Sunday, we went to the Memorial Drive church, the new stomping grounds of our friends Shane & Alice Coffman. He has some pics of our visit here: http://shanecoffman.blogspot.com/2006/08/thanks-for-coming.html, if you are interested. We loved their new church home! And it was so great to see Shane living his dream. Alice made us a wonderful lunch, and then we headed back home.

Sunday night, we went to Incredible Pizza with our connections group for a "back to school bash" for the kids. That, of course, included Mike, who seemed to have a good time. All I have to say about Incredible Pizza is: that place is NUTS.

Mike started back to school on Monday the 14th, though the kids didn't start coming until Thursday. He's loving his job. Enough about him, he has his own blog!!

The kids and I have slowly settled back in to a routine of sorts. It was so nice to have Mike home for the summer. However, I don't feel I accomplished as much when he was home. It was so much more fun to watch movies and travel when he was home! For about 3 days, Joel looked all over the house for Mike. I kept telling him that his daddy was at work. Consequently, from about Thursday on, Joel has made the mental connection that anything he wants but can't have is "at work". Conversations go something like this:

Me: What do you want to eat for breakfast, Joel?
Joel: I need Pizza.
Me: We can't have Pizza for Breakfast, silly. How about some applesauce.
Joel: No pizza. Pizza at work.

We went to the Zoo on Wednesday morning with Zane & Melanie. That was a blast! I'm ready for those Zoo trips to be cooler, though. I didn't get pics at the zoo, but Melanie did. Maybe I can get a couple from her soon... For 2 days after going to the Zoo, Joel kept asking to "go to the zoo with Zane and Memamie". When I told he we couldn't go to the zoo right now, he said... "No zoo, zoo at work."

Thursday evening after the kids were in bed, I went to pick up my mom to go to Kohl's. I love that place. I keep telling my mom they should just give me the stuff it's so cheap. I need to get a job there... Anyway, I got a "nail" the size of Texas in my tire as I was leaving the neighborhood. What a pain. The good news? My tires have a 24 month replacement plan, so on Friday, I drove to the dealership without having to put on a spare tire (I have run-flat tires on the new van) and they replaced the tire for no charge. What a deal!

I took Lindsay to the pediatrician on Friday. She's growing perfectly! She weighed 20.1 lbs and was 28 inches "tall". Also new on the Lindsay front, she's officially weaned. Only took us about 2 weeks to get that taken care of. Cry freedom! :)

Friday night, we spent time with both sets of grandparents. My parents had a back to school-ish dinner for all of my dad's co-workers. It was nice to meet several new workers and nice to chat with those we've known for a while now. They are a great group of people. After dinner, we went to Mike's parents' home for "Pie and Pickin'". Joel enjoyed identifying the bass, guitar, and banjo. He played every instrument, even though we told him not to touch them, and he danced in the circle as they played. What fun!

Saturday, Joel, Lindsay & I went to Quail for the Kids Safety Fair. Joel had a blast jumping in the moon bounces, and Lindsay took lots of notes from the Stranger Danger presentation. Here's a picture of her taking notes:

So, you are essentially caught up. I'm going to try to do better now that school has started. I promise!!!!!!!

I just want to be where you are...

2006-08-12T08:40:00.000-05:00

Lindsay loves her big brother. Yesterday, she was trying to get in to the high chair with him. Joel didn't want her to. I labeled this picture: "Stop touching me!"

Joel is into helping out around the house. Here's a picture of him helping in the kitchen:

Also yesterday, Lindsay pulled up by herself for the first time!

Summer days driftin' away

2006-08-09T23:12:00.000-05:00

This is too cute not to share. Lindsay is starting to pull up. Didn't she just start crawling yesterday? They grow to fast... I labeled this picture "Who, Me??"

Her big brother has a new name: King Applesauce.

Mike has only a few days left at home with the kiddos before he reports back to school. We're going to miss our summer family time!! If only no one had to work... ever.

It's been a long time coming...

2006-08-06T20:10:00.000-05:00

So, I really am alive. To catch up with the events of the past week...

Tuesday, I spent the day working so we could go out of town.
Wednesday, we got up at 4 am and drove to Hurst to my grandparents house. Wednesday was a full day of family reunions and mourning my uncle. The kids did great, and it was our first road trip in the new minivan. I don't quite know how I lived without it!!!

Thursday, we spent a bit more time with family and then headed back north to OK. I spent about 12 hours working to get ready for Friday's audit.

Friday I was a complete basketcase. It isn't over, but the preparation I needed to do is done, for the most part. We'll have another appointment at the end of the month.

Saturday, my mom, my cousins Ellie, the kids and I went to the zoo. It was HOT! They seemed to have a good time, though. Saturday evening, Mike and I went on a double date with Keith and Kathryn Varner. What fun! We ate at "Cheeseburger in Paradise". I had a chicken sandwich that was wonderful. Then we went to see Superman Returns. It was a great evening!

Today (Sunday), Joel woke up with a rash all over his legs. I was on the phone with the pediatrician by 8am. After 2 trips to Mercy After Hours and 2 trips to Walgreens, we now know that he has hives and that he will be fine. He did have to get a shot, which was not his or my favorite part of the day.

So, you are caught up with events of the week. I hope that I will have some pictures to share with you all tomorrow. My mom took the Zoo pics, so I need to get some from her. I have lots of picture of Joel's rash, but I'll save you from those...

Hasta la vista...

Don't grow weary...

2006-07-31T14:58:00.000-05:00

I'm behind. I'm sorry! I will get caught up, I just don't know when. I have a very full plate this week. I just have to let the blog go to the back burner for a bit. It sure is getting crowded back there...

Happy Birthday, Dear TRINITY!!! (7/25/06)

2006-07-26T09:06:00.000-05:00

Tuesday was Trinity's 2nd birthday. We are so glad we got to spend it with her!! Here is a picture of Trin blowing out her 2 candles.

After they wore icing and cookie, we put them in the pool! Trin looks like she's up to something...

And Lindsay was getting up on her knees tonight! She's still reverting to the "army man", but she was up and rocking back and forth! Before long, she'll be really on the move!

The emptiness is building...

2006-07-25T08:34:00.000-05:00

UPDATE: Pics are up for 7/22 (below).

Blogger won't let me post pictures, so look back later for a couple of new ones.

We didn't take any pictures on Sunday or Monday. That's sad... Today is my niece's 2nd birthday, and she and her mom (Mary) got into Edmond last night at about 11:30. I'm sure there will be lots of picture taken today, so check back for those too!

Later taters...

They love dirty laundry (7/22/06)

2006-07-25T08:21:00.000-05:00

Playing catch-up again!

I push Joel around the house in the laundry basket sometimes. He thinks it fun! Lindsay saw Joel in the basket, and she crawled over and wanted in! She's so cute...

My mom gave me a perm on Saturday. Joel wanted to help...

A pirate's life for me...

2006-07-21T23:22:00.000-05:00

No, not literally. Mike & I went out for a dinner date tonight. My mom and dad watched the kiddos. After dinner, my dad joined us for a viewing of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest. It was a blast. If you didn't like it, sorry! We laughed alot, which is the best medicine for whatever ails you, right?

Today was a great day. Grandma Linda came over to see Joel & Lindsay this morning. Then, we all loaded up and went to the mall! My mom and I walked the mall while Mike shopped. Then we met Dad and his co-worker Kenden (aka Schnittzles) at El Chico. Joel got to play at the indoor, air conditioned play area (the main reason we went to the mall) and then we came home for naps. I worked at my desk (which I can actually see again) all afternoon.

Joel is spending the night at my parents' house. Maybe the baby will sleep in?! Yeah, right...

Here's a picture (actually from last night) of the kiddos in the tub.
I gave it a caption of "WHO, US??"

Do you hear what I hear?

2006-07-20T09:17:00.000-05:00

I know my husband will appreciate this, but others? I'm not so sure. I found this on a website today. The website was entirely dedicated to "misheard lyrics". I was laughing out loud at my own mistakes on some songs, but this one affects pretty much everyone I went to high school with.

Def Leppard's "Pour Some Sugar On Me"

Misheard Lyrics:
Hit me like a bomb, babyC'mon get it on
Livin' like a lover with the red light on

Original Lyrics:
Love is like a bomb, babyC'mon get it on
Livin' like a lover with a radar phone

Here's a link to the website, if you have some spare time:
http://www.amiright.com/misheard/

It's so hot a chicken laid an egg on the street and it fried

2006-07-20T09:07:00.000-05:00

That really is from a song! Can you believe it???

It just keeps getting worse. Good thing that "cold front" is coming on Saturday. Ha?!

Heat Wave!!

2006-07-19T09:38:00.000-05:00

What's wrong with this picture????

We are just trying to stay inside these days. Poor Mike has to mow at 7am to beat the heat. They said we will have "relief" for the weekend. 95/93 is NOT my definition of relief!

Ice cream... (7/18/06)

2006-07-19T09:32:00.000-05:00

It's so hot. Even Lindsay wants ice cream!

Singin' in the "rain" (7/17/06)

2006-07-19T09:30:00.000-05:00

Monday night, after I got home from Body & Soul, I was HOT! So, Joel & I ran through the sprinkler. Ok, I ran, Joel watched, and then I just sprayed him with the sprinkler.

Lindsay and Daddy watched from the swing.

You're a pretty little girl and God loves you! (7/16/06)

2006-07-19T08:54:00.000-05:00

Lindsay wore a bow to church today!! It made it through 45 minutes of rehearsal, and then ended up in the diaper bag or Mike's pocket for the remainder of the morning. BUT... It made it for about an hour!!

Also, this is picture is after the concrete eating at Great-Grandma Morton's.

What ever happened to Saturday... (7/15/06)

2006-07-19T08:50:00.000-05:00

Joel got to ride in Great-Grandma's golf cart on Saturday!! What fun!

And here's a picture of Lindsay just before she decided to "EAT" the concrete.

We are fam-i-ly! (7/14/06)

2006-07-17T09:16:00.000-05:00

We went to see Great-Grandma Morton in Kansas today. We got to visit with many of Mike's family, and it was great! Here's a picture of Great-Grandma with the kids:

This picture is just too cute NOT to share. I know that means 2 pics for 1 day, but OH WELL! Lindsay is VERY into pulling hair. This time, though, it wasn't mine!!

While we were there, we realized that a few of our family members are on dial-up connections, so I changed my blog settings to only show 5 posts on the main page. If you want to look back past that, you'll have to use the archive links on the right of the page.

Might as well JUMP! (7/13/06)

2006-07-17T09:12:00.000-05:00

(Catch up again, this is from Thursday!)

Lindsay has hit the stage where she loves to jump. She actually spins more than she jumps. She's growing like crazy! She's been crawling for a week now, and she's everywhere. She's still doing the "army man" crawl, but I think she'll be up on her knees soon.

So happy together (7/12/06)

2006-07-17T09:05:00.000-05:00

(I'm playing catch up today! Here's what I should have done on 7/12/06!)

Joel and Lindsay are going to be great pals. At least for a few years. :) Here's a picture of them playing together in the pack-n-play this morning. They were sharing VERY well!

This trains got the disappearing railroad blues

2006-07-11T20:25:00.000-05:00

So, I had this great idea. Lindsay is getting in to Joel toys, so we needed to move them to his room. His room isn't big enough for a table for his train. So, I decided he needed a "train trundle". A platform, on casters, with handles, that was big enough for his train but small enough to fit under his bed. I suggested covering it in denim. Voila! Mike built it in a day. Here's the final product:

Just another manic Monday

2006-07-10T15:57:00.000-05:00

Joel won't stay out of Lindsay's swing. Can you blame him? After all, it used to be his, right? So, I'm having a heart attack watching him, because he's WAY over the weight limit. Are those really limits, or are they more like guidelines? :)

Today has been good. The whole house smells great because I put pot roast in the crock pot at 10am. I've managed to actually get some things off of my desk. Mike is off driving a bus again this afternoon. Let's all pray he doesn't set anything on fire again...

My friend and boss Mike Stephens has moved his radiation treatment up to tomorrow. Please pray for him and Amy as they go through this procedure...

Hope your respective Mondays are GREAT!

Get me to the church on time

2006-07-09T15:47:00.000-05:00

Why is it that with 2 kids I can't get ANYWHERE when I want to?

Anyway... Church was great today. Without going into too much detail, it always moves me to see people responding to the songs and/or sermon.

We had lunch with my Mom & Dad after church. Lindsay was wearing her Easter dress, which we have NO pictures of from Easter Sunday, so we took some yesterday! :) Here's one of Lindsay and her PaPa.

Goin' 'round and 'round

2006-07-08T23:39:00.000-05:00

Saturday, we met Mike's parents at the mall for lunch. That was lots of fun! Saturday night, we went to "Bowling for Rhinos", which was coordinated by my friend Amy. Lindsay actually slept in the middle of all the noise. Joel had a grand-ole time playing with the bowling balls. He spent at least an hour spinning them in the rack. Amy's event was a success, raising money for conservation. I didn't get a bunch of great pics, but here is one of my Type-A son pushing the bowling balls around and around the ball return platform. He was concentrating VERY hard on getting the balls all lined up! (The lanes weren't turned on, so there was no danger...)

We're visiting a laughing place...

2006-07-07T23:35:00.000-05:00

I found this on a site my Mom showed me. I was ROFL.

From http://www.wordspy.com/

aireoke (air.ee.OH.kee) n. Playing air guitar and singing to prerecorded music; playing air guitar in a public performance. Also: air-eoke. [Blend of air guitar and karaoke.]

:)

Happy Birthday, DEAR GRANDMA!!

2006-07-07T15:21:00.000-05:00

Today is my mom's birthday. I am so glad she was born! :)

We took the kids up to Mike's school today to see his new office and work a bit in his classroom. Joel had a great time playing in the gym.

This picture isn't from today, but it's a neat one of Mike & Lindsay that I wanted to share.

Tonight, I'm taking my mom out for a girls' night for her birthday. We can't wait!!!

Have a great weekend!!

I'm crawling

2006-07-06T23:14:00.000-05:00

(Yes, that's from a song!)

Lindsay crawled for the first time tonight. We're so proud!

Now, she'll really be getting in to big brother's toys. She already took his helicopter!

Monday, Monday... won't go away

2006-07-05T21:32:00.000-05:00

I know, today is Wednesday. But except for the fact that we went to church tonight, it sure felt like Monday to me!!

Today, I am very thankful my friend Auvrey is home from her mission trip to Venezuela. If you know her, you know why I'm thankful!!

The kids were both good today. Lindsay ate cereal tonight, and didn't spit it all over me! I think because she tolerates formula better the cereal doesn't taste so weird. Let's all hope she sleeps better (read: past 4:30) tonight!

(Notice the "clean" bottom lip. She likes to suck in her bottom lip, so it's the only thing near her mouth that ends up clean.)

Joel had his "best class ever" tonight at church, according to his sweet teacher. She said he sang songs with the group, sat down with the group, and participated with the group doing a project. (Joel usually does his own thing during class.) We're so proud! Our little boy is growing up...

When you come home...

2006-07-04T21:50:00.000-05:00

We made it back home safely. I'm tired, but we had a very nice visit with family.

We're not even seeing fireworks because we're too exhausted. How sad is that? I hope we can get back to seeing the fireworks before I'm 40. Something about babies and fireworks not mixing...

Last night, my Uncle John showed me this: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=4776181634656145640 which is well worth taking a look at! Amazing...

UPDATE: Here are a couple of pics from the trip!

Joel talking to Papa and Grandma on the walkie-talkie. He called it a phone. :)

Lindsay had a great time watching Joel be silly! She's become a very good traveler. She sure likes her big-girl seat!!

We are family...

2006-07-03T08:43:00.000-05:00

We made it safely to my Uncle John's house yesterday. Joel is having a blast playing in John's backyard. The adults had a great time last night sitting outside talking. Laughter was abundant, which suits me just fine.

Today, we are going to visit my Papa and Mama. They haven't met Lindsay yet, so that's exciting. Mom, Dad & I are also going to see my Uncle Tim today.

I'll add pics to this post when we get home. :)

Haven't got time for the pain

2006-07-01T20:04:00.000-05:00

Why are credit card bills due on Holidays? Grrrr...

Today has been busy. The only thing really "blog-worthy" is that Joel said "OKIEDOKEE" to me tonight and Lindsay is trying to learn how to take a pacifier. So far, she mostly wants to chew on it, which is better than the alternative (if you know what I mean).

No pics to share today. Sorry!

We're headed out of town for a couple of days to see family in the Dallas area. I'll post pics when we get back. Lindsay's first 4th!!

Movin' on up

2006-06-30T16:52:00.000-05:00

Joel got a new car seat today. He's very excited about this. We hadn't talked about it before hand, but the new seat is in the house so I could get it set up, and he's been getting in and out of it for over 30 minutes. He keeps saying, "Big Chair!" with much enthusiasm. Lindsay is graduating from the carrier today. Mostly because it weighs 28 pounds, and I can't carry it any longer! Here are 2 pics: Joel & the new chair and one of Lindsay from Zane's birthday party today. HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY, ZANE!!!

Livin' in a card-board-box

2006-06-29T13:32:00.000-05:00

(Mike assures me that is a song from the 80's.)

Last night, UPS delivered my replacement keyboard tray. I'm so thrilled to have one again. The backstory is that my keyboard tray gave out on me over a week ago. I've been "handicapped" since then. I found a good one for cheap online, and it took a few days to get here.

Why am I telling you all this?
Because Joel had a grand time in the box the keyboard tray came in. :)

I just want to be where you are...

2006-06-28T10:05:00.000-05:00

This morning, Joel said,"I need in". So I put him in!

Yesterday...all my troubles were so far away

2006-06-28T09:47:00.000-05:00

I think all my entry titles should be song lyrics. We'll see how long I can keep that up.

Yesterday, Mike took the kids to the park in the morning and I worked. I'm getting ready for an audit next week, and it is taking lots of time. I'm very thankful that Mike is home to help with the kids! Here's a couple of pictures from yesterday. I'll try to put pics of the kiddos up with every post. My goal is daily, but I'm sure there will be days I can't get to it.

PS - Mike: There IS a spell checker on this site!!

It's about time!

2006-06-28T09:33:00.000-05:00

After months of people telling me "You should really get a blog", I have finally given in. I don't have tons of free time, but it is important to me that family and friends see the kids in action. So, I'll begin posting stories and pics here and won't send as many emails. That will save time, right? I guess I can rationalize that way. :-) I hope you enjoy!