Christmas 2008

This year, Christmas was much different for us as it was the first year we did not spend it in Missouri. Instead, Missouri came to us - in the form of D1's mom and step-dad. They arrived on Christmas Eve morning and stayed 5 days. We had a great time and the boys thoroughly enjoyed their company. On Christmas Eve, we drove through Hollywild (not fun when it's raining and muddy) and then came back home to make reindeer food. The boys spread it throughout the back yard, in hopes that the reindeer would find it and stop at their house. We came back inside to play with a few early presents when we saw something red in our backyard....it was RUDOLPH!! The boys went crazy.....D1 really pulled it off and they were so excited, d2 could barely get a word out the rest of the night. Grandpa S. read them 'Twas the Night Before Christmas' and off to bed they went, just as giddy as I've ever seen them.

Christmas morning, we woke and opened gifts and had a nice breakfast. I have to brag for just a minute - I really got some awesome gifts this year, including Rachael Ray cookware (YAY!), an iPod shuffle, an NIV personalized Bible, some serving dishes....and not to forget my early Christmas gift (really for both D1 and I) was our new (albeit used) camera with which the below pictures were taken. Much better quality pictures than our previous camera took! Anyway, later that afternoon, we headed to Uncle Bob's for a Christmas dinner and celebration with D1's dad's family. It was a great time!!! Overall, this Christmas was probably one of the best ~ we were fortunate to spend the holiday with both sets of grandparents and we know how much that means to our children. And I, for one, enjoyed the 70 degree weather on Christmas Day!

Happy New Year!!!

*Story with Grandpa

*"Santa brought me just what I asked for...." (Lucky for Mom &
Dad)

*An old toy of D1's, fully restored - the latest 'fight' in our home over
who gets to ride it

*d2 and Mommy on Christmas Night

*Three Generations of 'D' men...

Major Inspiration!

Anyone watch 'The Biggest Loser?' This is the first season that D1 and I have ever tuned in and it was AMAZING what kind of life transformations are made with these chosen couples. Last night was the LIVE finale and it couldn't have ended better, in my opinion. For those that don't watch, the show is pre-recorded and actually took place over the summer. After you are voted off, you go back home and are encouraged to continue your weight loss - not just for the healthy aspect but to compete for $100k. The four finalists left on campus also go home after their 12-week stay and work towards a $250k prize to the one that has the highest percentage of weight loss. However, only three of the four actually get to compete for the top prize and America got to choose who would be the third competitor. Last week, the two that were below the 'yellow line' had a chance to appeal to America for their vote and it happened to come down to a husband and wife, Ed & Heba. D1 and I had were appauled at how this went - most people I know would lobby for the other to win but not this wife. Her loving husband did his part and asked America to vote for his wife, who wanted it so badly, but she had the audacity to petition for herself, claiming that she had the hardest journey, blahblahblah. I mean, WHO DOES THAT? A little class and modesty goes a long way! So at the beginning of the finale last night, the results from the nationwide poll were announced and, no surprise to me, it was a 'landslide' for ED! Heba looked shocked (not sure how she could have been shocked) and was quoted as saying, 'I guess there are just a lot of negative people out there who don't like to see success.' Um, no, I think there are a lot of people that get tired of arrogance and of individuals that feel they can bully others into doing what they want them to. Just my opinion! However, Heba did end up winning the second prize of $100k with the highest percentage amongst the others that didn't make it to the finals. I will say, she looked amazing and I think, in the end, she had the highest weight loss percentage out of everyone (which could have made her the big winner if she had some verball restraint) but I think her public (albeit pathetic) plea came back to bite her. There were some great results - we were especially excited for Jerry ( severely overweight dad who just wanted to walk his daughter, Colleen, down the aisle some day), Amy C and the 'Hometown' Couple, Phil & Amy P from right here in Greer, SC. WOOHOO!!



So, for the grand prize, the three contestants were Vicki, Ed and Michelle. They all looked phenomenal but MICHELLE won with the highest percentage - she lost 110 LBS!!! Totally different girl! I was so happy for her. I will limit my comments to how ECSTATIC I was that Vicki did not win because I could seriously write a novel. This woman had me dealing with BH contractions each week I watched with her snarky comments, her hateful looks and just down right spiteful personality. Seriously - each week we heard, 'I work harder than anyone else,' 'I deserve it more,' 'I love fuball.' (Just something about the way she said football drove me and D1 up the wall!) I had always heard that this was a 'feel-good' show and that everyone is striving for the same main goal - to lose weight but this woman was out for blood and made no effort to hide it. It was just very sad for the others who were there to change their lives but had to constantly watch out for her and her tactics. I just could not route for her in good conscience (truth be told, I hoped each week she GAINED - horrible, I know). So, the best part of the show for me last night - not only did she NOT win the big monetary prize, she came in third. And she came in third by ONE POUND!!! Ouch! What's that thing about karma? In any case, this will be a show we continue to follow - next series starts January 6th!!!

d1's First Basketball Game

This Saturday was d1's first basketball game of his career. He is a proud Taylors Giant teammate at the ripe ole' age of 4. This is a church league and his coach is, of course, his daddy. Let me first say that D1 is thoroughly enjoying coaching these boys but he is finding it tough to coach his son because he has to be fair but equal. He didn't struggle as much when he coached t-ball but is a little more this time around. In any case, he is great with these kids (ages 4-6) and is really patient with them and their energy levels that exhaust me just from being a spectator. d1 and W are the youngest on the team (after the other 4's dropped out) but they don't let it stop them! They are troopers and next year, they will be the BIG DOGS running the show. For now, they are just super cute to watch!!

So, their game was at a local church. They begin the game with a pre-game prayer where all team members form a circle and hold hands while the coach says a prayer. Then comes tip-off - Giants get the ball first and we never look back. Fortunately for the other team, we don't keep score at this age because it would have looked something like 50-2. Our team tore it up and we were all so proud! d1 scored his very first basket towards the end of the game and he was so excited and I have to say that it was one of the proudest moments in this mommy's life so far.....d1 has been waiting for this day to come for SO long. I took d1 (and d2 when he came along) to many of D1's games when he was coaching high school b-ball and d1 wanted so badly to be on that court. He spent all the half times and post games on the court, shooting 'free throws' and practicing because one day, he knew he was going to be a 'bassetball player' and now he is! So proud of him!! Here are some pictures....please excuse the blurriness....I NEED A NEW CAMERA, HUSBAND!! My b-ball player is #33 and the ball handler in the second picture....oh, and did I mention his defense is stellar?

Pep Talk

Pregame Prayer

Defense Position

Driving to the basket

Role Reversal

So, looking back at my posts over the last year, I notice a pattern when it comes to talking about my crazy boys and our adventures. Our discipline struggles have been (for the most part) with d1. My, how the times are changing!!

In the last couple of weeks, D1 and I have realized that d2 is coming into a new stage in his life and it's a very mischievious stage!! This boy is SNEAKY! For example - not long ago, he hit d1 and sat in time-out for it. After time-out, he was told to go hug his brother and apologize. d2 proceeded to hug his 'bubby,' tell him he was sorry, and then he KICKED him. d1 hollers that d2 kicked him. I ask him if he kicked him and he says, 'Me no kick Dagen, me love Dagen' with his arms out wide as if to say, 'I wouldn't do that!' That's probably where we realized he had some tricks up his sleeve and it hasn't gotten much better from there.

On the other hand, d1's sensitive, SWEET side has re-emerged and I am welcoming this with open arms. Just this past weekend, we had a Darnell Movie Night where we popped popcorn, made hot chocolate and put in a movie - 'The Polar Express' this week - and sat down to watch together. Towards the end of the movie, d1 was sitting with me and when the lil' boy lost his bell from Santa's sleigh, d1 says, 'I wish he wasn't so sad, Mommy.' I told him to keep watching. Then he says, so pitifully, 'I don't want him to be upset. I think I'm going to cry.' Of course, I thought he was just being silly when next thing I know, he's BAWLING real tears!! And we can't get him to stop! It was the craziest thing and I keep telling him to watch the movie, that I'm sure he'll find it but he was absolutely distraught! I told D1 that our 'baby' was maturing and just has such a big heart. Other instances have also shown us that he's turning into a little man that doesn't spend half his day in time-out and we are also seeing a decline in tantrums. PTL!! Long time coming......makes all that hard work with parenting/disciplining well worth it to see some positive outcomes!!

ER Visit....Take TWO!

A little behind in this update but thought I would share anyway. On Thanksgiving Evening, we were at Uncle Bob's house (i.e. Uncle Bob's Carnival) with the Darnell fam. We got there around 4:00 so that the boys could go for rides with Uncle Bob on the tractor, the 4-wheeler, the golf cart and any other 'toy' he had out for their entertainment. Dinner was served around 5:30 and it was DELISH. After the boys had finished their dessert, they got up to play. d1 was playing with his cousin, Skylar, while d2 was goofing off with Grandpa and Uncle Terry. While I was trying to enjoy my SECOND piece of Italian Creme Cake, I heard a loud THUMP and jumped up, knowing full well it was one of mine. Next thing I hear is a loud scream; Uncle T grabs d2 and looks for blood or bruising on his forehead because it sounded like his head had hit something. Nothing on the head but blood was gushing from his face.....he had sliced his cheek open on the stone coffee table when he came up from crawling under/around it. At first glance, we thought it was his previous injury re-opened but soon found it was a different wound, directly above the other. Off we went to the ER.....AGAIN! When we get there and get checked in, we were thrilled (note the sarcasm) to see that the same doctor and same nurse were on call that sewed d2 up the last time we were in, less than two months ago. Good times!!!

No pictures posted as I saw no real point....if you want to know what it looked like, see the post below for the first ER trip because it looked about the same. My lil' guy is turning into a real-life Frankenstein with all his scars on his face. We're praying they heal on their own (with the help of Mederma and Vitamin E); otherwise, we'll be paying some $$ for a plastic surgeon to help us out later on down the road.

I Am Thankful For....

As I now have children old enough to understand what it means to be thankful, I try to ask them (at least the older one) what he's thankful for. They have been asking these questions at school, too, so d1 has had some less-vague answers lately, most recent saying he was thankful for his family. That's great and I agree but I want him to eventually be more specific so I thought I would make a list of all that I am thankful for in my life. Maybe you readers can join along and post what you are thankful for.

* My husband who cooks dinner every night, cleans the house, does laundry, plays monsters and tractors with d1 & d2 (and he thoroughly enjoys it), changes the oil in the car/van, mows the yard and is the spiritual leader in our family. His family has been so good to me in the 8+ years we've been together and have really taken me as their own. We will enjoy Thanksgiving dinner with my father-in-law and all of his brothers and sisters and we can't wait! They are great people to be around....and they can all cook well, which I really appreciate as I LOVE to eat!!

*My little boys who know how to make Mommy smile (and frown at times but we won't discuss that in this post) by 'mauling' me on the morning drive to work, telling me that I look pretty, sharing their snacks with me, helping me bake blondies and pumpkin muffins on Sunday afternoons, napping with me and thus giving me some cuddle time, waving good-bye to me when I take them to school and telling me to 'hab good day' and saying 'buv you' when I leave and for their pure, innocent character that shows me that they will become the example we set for them. I am also thankful for the lil' guy growing inside of me. He is making me rounder and rounder by the day (or is it all the Bruster's ice cream and burritos?) but I already know he will have his own personality and we will have a special relationship, unique in its own, just like his brothers.

*My health and the health of my family. Praise the Lord we have all been flu/ear infection/strep throat-free this season and we are so blessed for that. For as long as I can remember (about 4 years, I guess), we have battled all of the above with one or the other (or both) and it was always continuous. This year we are striving to be more germ-free and really doing all that we can to keep our family healthy. I know there are times you just can't help the circumstances but I think we can attribute a little of the healthiness to the new environment the boys have been in since August. We love Covenant CDC!!!

*My awesome job that I started in August. Not only do I really like what I'm doing, I LOVE who I work with everyday. My co-workers are wonderful - we do some shopping at lunch, some dining out, and even some scrapbooking (love ya, CG!). My boss' are super flexible and accommodating to my schedule if necesssary....I no longer miss class parties, parades or programs!! WOO HOO!!!

*My friends, new and old. To say I have not have had a 'nuclear' family life would be the understatement of the year. I have a great brother, awesome aunts, uncles and cousins around the US but for the last 13 years, my friends have been my 'family' and have always been there when I've needed them the most. You know who you are and I wouldn't be the wife, mother, professional woman I am today without you! Thanks!! To my new friends - you have all made the transition to the South easier for me by showing such love and support. Thank you and I'm so glad you were placed in my life!

*My house! Yeah, now I'm being material but I love my house. So what if I'm 30 minutes from civilization....I love my house! We have lots of space for the 'monsters' to roam freely, we're less than an hour from the mountains, 4 hours from the beach.....it's great!

*My faith in God....this is a big one and one that has only grown with time. I've mentioned before that Dallas and I didn't have a Christian background until our good friends, the Schuman's, led us to a fantastic church many years ago. Since then, we have both grown so much as Christians and have such a different perspective on life. It's truly amazing what God will do for you if you will just LET him!

I could probably go on and on and on with all I'm thankful for but that's a good start. I would love to read what others are thankful for so if you get a chance, post it up and be sure to tell those in your lives that you are thankful for them today!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Almost 7 Years Ago....

This is a little early but due to the holidays coming up, I didn't want to forget to wish my wonderful husband a Happy Anniversary...not of our wedding day but of our engagement day, which was Thanksgiving 2001. I guess most don't typically celebrate it and we usually don't, either but I just love to reminisce about that day. It is definitely one of my happiest days and one I will never forget. A stroll down memory lane...

D1 and I had been dating about a year and a half at this point. We had discussed marriage but no plans had been made, nothing serious in the works...so I thought. In fact, just a week or so before the big proposal, we had a 'fight' about our future and it ended with him walking out of my apartment, telling me that he didn't know if I was the one he wanted to spend his life with and wished I would just leave him alone about the future. Come to find out, it was all staged....I think he thought I was onto him, yet I was totally clueless! So, fast forward to Thanksgiving Day. My little brother and I were going to D1's family's house for dinner. Right before dinner, D1's step-dad asked us to gather in the garage for a quick activity he needed to complete (on video) for him to finish his entrance into the priesthood. His step-dad had parts for each of us to read that was Thanksgiving-themed but also a little romantic, too, and told us to move in a particular sequence after we read our parts. Apparently I was more focused on eating so I didn't pay much attention to the words; I just read my part and moved to my spot. The entire family was involved - D1's parents, brother, sister, their spouses, my brother, and D1's 80-year-old grandfather, Poppy. By the end of the 'poem,' D1 and I were facing each other and he was down on one knee, asking me to marry him. IT WAS INCREDIBLE! The only two that didn't have a clue were me and my bro. I was so surprised, which is exactly what he was hoping for. My ring was exactly what I had described to him throughout the months before when I would talk about the ring I dreamed of having some day. He actually listened and made notes and took those details with him to the jeweler and had my ring designed just for me. When it was over, I immediately said, 'I have to call my grandma!' as my grandma and I were VERY close. As I was dialing (and she wasn't answering), D1 informed me that she already knew because he had gone and asked for their blessing a few weeks before. WHAT???STUNNED AGAIN! Back then, my grandma and I talked everyday and I couldn't believe she had kept such a huge secret. This was, by far, the biggest surprise of my life and I couldn't have asked for a more memorable proposal!!

Isn't it amazing how much life changes over the years? It's only been 7 years but our lives have turned around and around more times that we can count. We got married, became Christians, had babies, lost loved ones, changed jobs, moved 1,000 miles from 'home.' WOW! Writing that really shows me how far we've come and I just cannot imagine my life without D1. He has given me everything I've ever wanted or hoped for...and then some. Dallas, thank you for loving me in the good times and bad, for giving me two (almost three) wonderful boys that want to be just like you, for being my biggest fan! You are a good man and an amazing father. Together, we have created a beautiful family of our own and you are giving me the things I had always dreamed of as a little girl but didn't think I deserved. I could not have asked for a better partner to share my life with! You are my best friend and I LOVE YOU!

The Results Are In ~ It's a Boy! Again!

D1 and I went in for our Level 2 ultrasound on Tuesday and were quickly shown the 'proof' of another boy and there was no denying this one. We had an awesome U/S tech who showed us the coolest pics. Baby D constantly wanted to suck his thumb (see below) and he even waved a couple of times. Everything measured perfectly, she saw no problems or abnormalities and we are on track for our April 4th due date...but if he wanted to come a little early, Momma won't object!! I really thought I would be disappointed and I admit I was a little at first when we heard the early prediction but the more I think about it, I realize that a sweet, precious little girl wouldn't last in our household of boys. Our boys are full of energy but also full of love. d1 and d2 have become the best of friends ~ I think d1 even understands d2 better in his 2-year-old jabber than we do at times. I know lil' d3 is going to fit in just right and feel his brothers' love immediately. In fact, they have already begun talking to him through my belly and giving him kisses. Despite the 'shock and awe' of finding out about this baby boy, we are all adjusting to the idea of another baby in the house and we truly feel God's blessing upon us. We may not have planned it but He had a plan for us and everyday we feel it's place in our lives.

Such Innocence....

Each morning, on our way to school/work, d1 and I often have some off-the-wall conversations and this past Friday was no different. Lately, we've been discussing heaven as we explain where people that we love go when they pass away. It's pretty deep and difficult to describe to a four-year-old about death without scaring them so we keep it simple and say that those people have gone on to heaven to be with Jesus. He likes that and one day not long ago, he asked what we will do in heaven. I told him it would be great because we would dance, sing, play, and eat big 'ole meals. Friday morning as we are driving, d1 asks me when we are going to heaven to sing and dance and eat. Again, I kept it simple and told him that we will go when we are very old but that it would be amazing. I will never forget the next question that came....he said, "Mommy, when we get to heaven, do you think Jesus will let me give him a hug?" It was difficult to hold back the tears as I told him he could ABSOLUTELY give Jesus a hug and that would be wonderful. All day long, I couldn't help but stop and think about that profound question from my young child and how quickly he is growing up. As parents, we find ourselves looking forward to when they can gain some independence and do some things for themselves but that morning made me want him to stay my baby forever....and he will, even when he's 50.


I also want to mention how excited D1 and I were to have 'Date Night' this past Saturday, of which we have not had had since July. We thought about it and have not had any alone time away from the boys in over 3 months and we were SO ready for it. Thanks to some great friends who kept the boys, we were able to get a few hours away to do dinner and a movie. We had been told by several people what a great movie Fireproof was so we decided to check it out. WOW is all I can say! I highly recommend it for married couples of all ages....it is such a clean, uplifting movie with a storyline that is applicable to all of us and I believe everyone can learn from it. It is a low-budget film with a few cheesy actors but Kirk Cameron gave an awesome performance and I think he is a great role model for married couples today.....he has strong morals and he stands behind what he believes in ~ in his life as well as his career and I think there is something to be said for that. These days, character, ethics and values are being compromised at every level and it's very sad! I think I cried the entire movie but I was certainly not the only one...in fact, I doubt there was a dry eye in the theater. Go see it!!! Thanks again J & B ~ you guys are great friends!!!

Fall Fun

We've been busy with lots of fun activities this month and the weather has been beautiful so we've been spending lots 'o' time outdoors, which is always refreshing. I really do love the climate change we have come to know since moving to the South.....

We did a Pumpkin Patch trip with some friends.....

And during a recent shopping trip to the mall, the boys enjoyed the lil' rides in the commons area....(p.s. getting them to smile, particularly d1, is such a chore because they insist on looking so 'serious' just as they do when they are riding their Gator or doing anything else we know they thoroughly enjoy ~ so strange!)

And then today was TFBC's Fall Festival, where the kids all dress up and enjoy games, inflatables, carnival rides and, of course, candy (of which ours was 'traded' in at home for chocolate to avoid our coloring-induced meltdowns. This year, d1 is Batman and d2 is his sidekick, Robin (so appropriate for these two guys). They did okay in their costumes, although d2 hates the mask. We couldn't get them to cooperate for a picture AT the festival so we settled for one at home...and yes, my bulge is showing!

d2's First ER Visit...and Our Early News

This week d2 had his first ER visit, which I'm certain will not be his last. I got a call from his preschool around 4:15 (just minutes before I was to pick him up) to tell me that I needed to come early because he had an accident. Those words alone made my heart sink so I didn't really hear what happened until I picked him up - that he was running in his classroom, tripped and fell into a table. When I got there, I ran (okay, partially ran b/c I just don't run much these days) into the office where he was sitting with the director. They had a sucker in his mouth (despite my adamant requests that my boys have NO candy at school but I realize he was probably hysterical so I didn't say anything) and a compress on his eye. He was calm but his eye looked AWFUL. It had already began to bruise and he had a pretty large gash underneath it that was open and "fleshy." I tried to hold the tears back because I knew that would only freak him out but it was so hard because my baby looked terrible. Like he had just been in a bar fight or something....We first took him to minor care, who didn't want to treat due to his age and the location of the wound. So we went to the ER and checked in. Luckily, D1's AWESOME aunt and uncle came and got d1 and took him home with them for dinner while we were with d2. When the doc did the procedure, I willingly left the room and let D1 take this one (you see, I took d1 to the ER last year for his first round of stitches and I endured the heartbreak that happens when they restrain your baby after a random and often "goofing off" incident he enjoyed with his dad that warranted stitches). Three hours and three stitches later, here's a picture of our lil' champ...

On another note, I went to the OB last week at 13w4d for some weird but minor side pains. My routine appointment was a week away but I just wanted to check that Baby D was okay. I have a GREAT group of docs at Piedmont Women's Health who take wonderful care of their patients (and I'm sure it helps that I'm their financial analyst!!). I saw Dr. W and after asking me some questions, he decided to get the ultrasound machine out and take a look. After looking at the important stuff like Baby D's heartbeat and my placenta, he said it looks (and sounds like) a pulled muscle. Then he said he just wanted to do a little more "looking" around...and then something "popped" out at me. Maybe he was specifically looking for something and thought I wouldn't notice but I noticed! I asked him what that was that he was just looking at and he just kind of chuckled and looked at me(you see, we had just discussed the whole gender issue before he looked and how we were PRAYING for pink). I said (very professionally, of course) "Was that a wiener?" He just left it there, looked at me and said, "Yes, that looks like a wiener to me." We then had a conversation about whether or not he could really tell this early and some other "explanations," he did say that he's not 100% sure but that he would be VERY surprised if my Level 2 U/S at 18 weeks showed anything but a bouncing, baby BOY! He then asked if I needed a minute to myself (I was alone for this sporadic appt) because I think he could see my disappointment and slight terror in my reaction. So, I am almost ashamed to admit that I cried many times throughout that day and random times since...and I hate myself for it because the most important thing is that this baby is healthy. I also know that babies are a true gift from God and no matter the sex, we will love this little one with all that we have. I think my tears were more from my shame of being so disappointed that it's PROBABLY not a girl instead of being elated that we could have another boy. I just KNEW this was a girl due to the difference in my pregnancy and so that was just a let down. I am under no assumption that girls are a piece of cake to raise or that life would be much different than with these rowdy boys but as I write this, my boys are eating a snack and SPITTING on each other as they do it and YELLING as loud as possible....I mean, little girls don't do these sorts of things, do they? I am doing much better this week (thanks to my email buddies, just-me-and-the-boys and threescompanyingreenville). I think we have actually come to an agreement on a D name. We go back in less than three weeks (on Election Day, no less) for the real thing and I hope that I'm better prepared to handle it since I have a good idea of what we'll hear. D1 and I have always wanted a little girl to add to our family but if this is not a girl, it is not to be for us because we are D-O-N-E! If anyone knows of a urologist who has a good track record of V procedures, send the referral our way!!

John Deere Green

I first want to say how much I LOVE Craigslist and whoever created it. Awesome idea! Early this week, I was perusing the site (lately, I've just been looking for good, quality baby stuff to begin my process of starting over) and came across an ad that was almost unbelievable. A hardly-used John Deere Gator for a STEAL of a price....We have been wanting to get d1 and d2 one of these for awhile but couldn't bring ourselves to shell out the retail price. We had decided that we would wait until closer to Christmas and use some leftover gift cards they had received for their birthdays and some of the Christmas money they would receive to go towards the purchase...until I came across the ad. I went the same night to check it out and left with it in my mini-van 10 minutes later. They are already fighting over who rides it next, which is the sign that they love it. d1 got a John Deere Tractor for his 2nd Christmas and D1 and I agree that it was worth every penny. Yay for CL!! Love the bargains.....

Day by Day...

It seems like forever since I've posted and I have good intentions of doing it but just can't seem to muster up the energy at night after the boys are asleep. I started a new job last month and it's awesome but the hectic schedule is a lot to handle, even more so with the daily afternoon/evening nausea that I'm dealing with. I've tried all the suggestions (crackers, ginger ale, small meals, etc.) but the only thing I have found to help slightly is a little bit of good ole' caffeine. Not a lot but just about 1/2 a can of Dr. Pepper does the trick...most days. Before the rocks get thrown at me by you non-caffeine drinkers, let me say this. First, going from drinking 2-3 cups of coffee and 1-2 cans of DP a DAY to only 1/2 can every OTHER day is a lot for this busy mama. Second, I did verify with my OB (even though I knew the stats....1-2 cups of coffee or 1-2 sodas is acceptable and safe) and I'm doing this in an effort to stay off meds until this first trimester passes...assuming the sickness goes with it. And third, I drank little to NO caffeine with d1 and he's a wild child. I drank a bit more with d2 and he's a mellow fellow. Looking at the two in comparison, one might suggest that I drink a 2-liter each day to ensure this bebe's calm temperament. However, I am following doctor's orders....and drinking my tasty DP in moderation. Although we have a few weeks left before we know the sex of this little surprise, I have to think that this is a girl....I was never sick with the boys and I never had this disgusting ACNE I have recently come upon. Maybe old wives tales but I'm holding onto it with all I've got! Here's a picture of me at 10 weeks...pre-acne period and before my tan faded from my month-long vacation....

So, our two little guys are growing in leaps and bounds. d1 is thoroughly enjoying preschool and LOVES his teachers (PTL!). He takes his lunch everyday and is so excited when I tell him what I packed in his Spiderman lunchbox each morning. He used to "cling" to me during drop-off but he has really been doing great, and I'm sure it's due to his being so comfortable around the teachers. d2 is also doing well in preschool, although he did have to go to the director's office and sit in the "sad chair" last week. Apparently d2 was on the playground and, according to his teacher, he tackled a little girl to the ground and BIT her on the cheek. I was SHOCKED! This is not the behavior we typically see from d2 so, like any good parents, we assume the girl did something to him first. ;) Not that we find his behavior acceptable but more that we think there is more to it. Naturally, we don't ask the teacher who the little girl is (although I bet we could figure it out by looking for a bite mark on the cheek)...we go to our inside source ~ Aunt Donna. She works at the preschool and she is so loving to the boys, always checking on them to see how they are. We called and asked if she had heard about the incident in question and she hadn't but said she suspected a little girl that is known for hitting and stealing toys. AHA! Come to find out, it was and we "know" our precious monkey wouldn't intentionally hurt a little girl....but we do know he has had to learn to defend himself from his big brother so it all became very clear. Nonetheless, we explained to d2 that we do NOT hit or bite our friends...and his response is always "Ess mim" (yes, ma'am). Everyone is "mim" at this point...we haven't mastered "sir." We are also working on potty training...at this point, he will pee-pee in the potty but #2 is out of the question. Our bribe of choice....Nilla Wafers. Works great....except that he is going to burn out on Nilla Wafers if he doesn't stop going into the pantry, closing the door and eating out of the box! Sneaky little guy...

d1 does have his share of time-outs at school for not listening, an issue we have daily at home. Like the ears don't even work...I think it's a male thing, not a 4-yr-old thing because D1 often has a "hearing problem." But other than not listening, d1 hasn't been in real trouble...accept for kissing a little girl in his class last week. Him and a friend apparently each gave her kisses on the cheek and had to sit with the teacher and hear why we only kiss our mommies and daddies. I thought girls were gross at this age?? I will be punting these subjects off to D1....just like I do with the "Mommy, where's your weenie?" questions. I refuse to stand naked in front of him anymore because it's like his eyes are glued to where where my "weenie" should be. Ah, the joys of parenthood and the infamous questions!

Here is a recent picture of my crazy pair....lucky for you, their clothes are on this time. They usually enjoy dancing in the nude...

d1's First Day of Pre-School

d1 started a new daycare last week and it's fantastic. It's a Methodist church that has a child development center as well as half-day preschool. We are so excited about it! Looking back, it makes me cringe at where we sent the boys before. They were "looked after" but beyond that, it doesn't hold a candle to this new place. d2 will start at the same school in a couple of weeks when his new room is finished being remodeled. And another perk of this new school, which initially led us here is that D1's aunt has taught here for years so the boys have a family connection. These teachers are so loving to the children, they go to Chapel every Tuesday, and it's only about 10 minutes from my new job. AND every Wednesday, parents are encouraged to eat lunch with their children. I can't wait!! Being this close to their school AND having a new, super-flexible position, I won't miss out on any classroom parties or programs and I just might get to chaperone some field trips....hopefully before I start waddling from this new growth in my uterus! ;) Here is my lil' guy on his first official day of preschool!

Ready or Not - Here He/She Comes!

So, about two weeks ago D1 and I discovered that we are unexpectedly expecting bebe #3. We found out while on vacation and are still adjusting to the news (shock). d1 and d2 were very much planned pregnancies and with this one...well, we were pretty sure there wasn't going to be a third. Nonetheless, we both know that this is nothing but a miracle in itself and a gift from God so we are overjoyed in so many ways. Our first announcement of the upcoming arrival were to the little people....the soon-to-be big brothers. d1 was excited and continues to tell others that I have a baby in my belly and offers to show them by lifting my shirt. Hmmmm....not happening, buddy! He also insists that it's a baby sister so D1 and I are both hoping that he knows something we don't. No matter what, we will be thrilled whether it's a boy or a girl but for anyone who reads this, THINK PINK for me!! PLEASE!! I need a little estrogen in my home. Maybe the pink ticker will help me out?????

Home Sweet Home

We made it back, safe and sound! Our trip to MO was really nice (and LONG). We had lots of time to visit family and friends and new bambinos. We attended a wedding, "milked" cows at a farmstead, made sundaes and played at Paradise Park, soaked up the sun in the pool EVERYDAY, rode four-wheelers and tractors at Papa Murphy's farm, had a surprise party for D1's Big "30th" Birthday, just to name a few events. D1 participated in his high school alumni baseball game and hit a homerun...I was so proud! d1 spent most of his waking moments on a tractor or the riding lawnmower. If he wasn't riding one of the two, he was asking....over....and over....and over. One track mind, that boy has! d2 had a ball playing with Blue, G-pa's dog, and following on d1's heels. His new thing is this ~ everytime d1 asks to do something or for something, he chimes in with "and ME!" It's absolutely precious! He wants to be just like his big brother. d1 also had his first sleepover with CJS (it still counts, even if Mom and Dad are there, doesn't it?) He didn't make it through the night in the tent, due to CJS waking up in the middle of the night for his Mommy. d1 was funny...when I went in there to see what was going on and why they were crying, he said, "I'm crying because he woke me up and I wanted to still be asleep." Here are some random pictures from our trip.

Deanna Rose Farmstead

Paradise Park

Papa Murphy's farm

d1's fav activity

My baby brother

First sleepover

Party Time

This past weekend we had a combined birthday party for d1 and d2. We had the bash at Gymboree with lots of dancing, shaking, moving, bubbles and giggles. d1 had TWO pieces of multi-colored birthday cake (later added by two more at Papa's house) so he was full of life (and some other things!). We were very happy with the venue and how they handled the children. The parties they have are targeted for children 2-5 years old and since we had a mixture of 2's and 4's, it worked great. Thanks to all that came and partied with us and for all the great gifts! The boys have been thoroughly entertained. Here are a couple of the cool toys they got from Papa....d2 does great on his, d1 has some "growing" to do before he can work his gift without breaking a bone or tearing his knees apart.

Mother of the Year Award Goes To....NOT ME!

So, yesterday, on Father's Day no less, we traveled over to a friend's home to go swimming and hang out for awhile. As we were waiting in their driveway, we were letting the boys play in the van to pass the time. d2 had made his way to the drivers seat and was playing with the steering wheel and pressing BUTTONS. When it was time to go, D1 closed the hatch on the back of the van and made his way to the front. Unbenownst to him, d2 had pushed the LOCK button during his playtime. We soon realized the van was locked, both sets of keys were in the van and so was d2. And it was about 90 degrees....Talk about a freak out!

Our friends immediately called AAA and 9-1-1 for help while we "coached" d2 into somehow getting the doors/windows open. Of course he thought we were playing a game when we were "cheering" him on to push the button. He had the lock button figured out, only he didn't understand to push it up rather than down. And with our particular style of van (or maybe b/c of some add-on feature that we didn't know about), if you push the lock button three times in a row, the van starts. So at this point, my child is not only locked in a hot van, he has the engine running. And no, the air wasn't left on so it didn't solve the heat problem...only gave me another fear of him messing with the steering column and putting it into drive (if that's possible without pressing the brake). By now I'm starting to freak and have bad scenarios pass through my brain because I notice sweat beads rolling down d2's forehead. D1 was just about to borrow a hammer to break the window when we coaxed d2 into rolling down the passenger window (less buttons to mesmorize him). He pushed it, I grabbed the window and pushed it down and got him outta there! PTL he was perfectly fine but WOW what a scary event! I've heard the stories before but when you are in the drivers seat (excuse the pun), it's a whole different stream of emotions! So, word to the wise (not that anyone would ever do this!), keep your keys on you at all times and keep the kids out of the drivers seat!

I'm a Big Boy Now!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Yesterday was d1's 4th birthday and I am still in shock at how fast he's grown up. Although his actual party isn't until next Saturday, we wanted to give him some gifts from us on his actual birthday. All he asked for was a bike and we knew that's what we would get him but it's always fun to play little tricks on him. Of course he woke up bright and early (no different from EVERY other day - by 6:15) to a room full of balloons. We got downstairs and he found a couple of gifts waiting. He opened them and liked them and then said, "Thank you for my presents...but I asked for a bike!" HAHA! We apologized and said that maybe he would get one for Christmas. While he was playing with his toys that he had to settle for, D1 snuck upstairs and brought down the bike. He freaked! Loved it, wanted to ride it at 6:30 in the morning. Later in the day, I was having a sentimental moment and wanted to watch the video of when I was prego with d1 and at the hospital....wow, did it bring back some memories and emotions. Watching that video made me want another baby....but that quickly passed when I had to clean up d2's blowout diaper. Ahhh, good times!

Take This Job and Shove IT!

That's right ~ I gave my notice at my job. My last day worked will be June 20th (d2's 2nd birthday - double celebration!) D1 and I have done lots of praying and pondering and decided this would be best for our family (and my sanity) if I left my current position. I still have to find a professional P/T job (which I realize could be a challenge) but I'm hoping and praying it will work out where I can be home at least 2 days a week. If we can't find that, I may be going back to a full-time position in the fall until I do find something P/T...but at least I'll have the summer to search and spend some quality time with my boys. If anyone knows of a part-time position in the Accounting & Finance field, please send them my way. I don't wanna go back to a 40 hour job! WAAAAAA!!



Since D1 has the entire summer off, we've decided to make the most of the timing and travel back home for 3 weeks to visit family and friends. We're looking forward to this trip as are the boys to go back and have their fun on the farm while we get to catch up with old friends, many of whom have been popping babies out left and right! We can't wait to meet all of the new additions!!


It's Summertime!!!! Bring on the fun in the sun!!

Angel Food Ministries

On a BBC board I read, I have seen several threads about a food co-op called Angel Food Minstries. I went to the site and looked around and became interested in trying this out. I know I could sure use some help reducing my grocery bill to offset the increase in gas prices. It works like this ~ each month AFM develops a "menu" of items that you can purchase for $30. You bring the box and they fill you up on a designated day. Here is the menu for June:


1.5 lb. Rib Eye Steaks (4 x 6 oz)
1.5 lb. Hamburger Patties (4 x 6 oz)
2 lb. Pork Riblets
4 lb. Individually Quick Frozen Chicken Leg Quarters
2 lb. Breaded Chicken Tenders
20 oz. Supreme Pizza
1 lb. Mild Italian Sausage
2 lb. French Fries
16 oz. Sliced Carrots
16 oz. Mixed Vegetables
32 oz. Borden 2% Reduced Fat Shelf Stable Milk
6 oz. Pancake Mix
15 oz. Pork and Beans
14 oz. Ketchup
7.5 oz. Macaroni & Cheese
Dozen Eggs
Dessert Item

AFM also offers additional boxes that can be purchased with every regular unit. They offer grill boxes with steaks and pork chops, as well as some other random meat items. The amount of food you receive in the regular unit for $30 is comparable to spending $65 or $70 at the grocery store for the same items. It is said to feed a family of four for an entire week or a single person for an entire month.

According to the website, the program was founded by pastors from Georgia in an effort to help those in need. However, there is no income restrictions or guidelines and I have heard that for every, maybe 10, boxes sold, one is donated to a family in need. We have not yet tried it but it appears that our church, as well as other local churches, are distributors so maybe we should check it out. Worst case scenario ~ I'm out $30 for some mediocre food. But, best case scenario ~ I cut my grocery budget in half!! So my question to you bloggers and lurkers.....anyone tried it? If you did, what did you think?

Questions You've Probably Never Been Asked

This is just for fun so copy this entire post and paste into your own post. Change all the answers so that they apply to you and TAG someone else! Nikki & Caroline, I tag you!

1) First thing you wash in the shower? Face
2) What color is your fav hoodie? Gray
3) Do you plan outfits? Not for me but for the boys
4) How are you feeling RIGHT now? Hungry
5) What's the closest thing to you thats red? pen
6) Tell me about the last dream you remember having? I was arguing with my MIL
7) Did you meet anybody new today? yep, a new sales guy
8) What are you craving right now? Mutt's BBQ
9) Do you floss? Yes but not as often as Dr. Cofer thinks I should
10) What comes to mind when I say cabbage? Yum-O
11) Are you emotional? Not as much as I used to be but yes, I am
12) Have you ever counted to 1,000? Cannot recall
13) Do you bite into your ice cream or just lick it? BITE
14) Do you like your hair? Not so much
15) Have you ever met a celebrity? yes - Ricky Schroeder and Bachelor Aaron
16) Do you like cottage cheese? it's okay
17) What are you listening to right now? office heater running
18) How many countries have you visited? Maybe 3? Is Jamaica & Bahamas countries?
19) Are your parents strict? HA! Good one!
20) Would you go sky diving? No Way Jose!
21) Would you have dinner with George W. Bush? Is he buying?
22) Would you throw potatoes at him? Not unless he made me pay
23) Is there anything sparkly in the room you're in? My personality
24) Have you ever been in a castle? Nope
25) Do you rent movies often? Every now and then
26) Have you ever made a prank phone call? Oh yeah, good ole' junior high days
27) Do you own a gun? No
28) Can you count backwards from 74? Of course
29) Brown or white eggs? Do they taste different? I buy white
30) Ever been on a train? Sure
31) Are you too forgiving? No such thing
32) Do you use Chap-Stick? Habitually
33) What is your best friend doing tomorrow? Probably playing with her kiddos
34) Can you use chop sticks? No
35) Ever had cream puffs? Yes, they are delish
36) What was the last CD you bought? Kenny Chesney
37) Is your hair curly? Nah, but it is wavy
38) Ever walked into a wall? Probably
39) Fav time of the year? Spring
40) Favorite color? Pink
41) Are you sarcastic? Never ;)
42) Do you have any tattoos? Yes, I have a purple frog on my left hip. Don't stone me, please!
43) Do you sleep with the TV on? No
44) What is your favorite animal? Goat
45) Can you hula hoop? No but I should be able to with these hips I've been blessed with!

Entertainer of the Year

Not that I ever questioned for a minute why Kenny Chesney has been named Entertainer of the Year for so many years now but WOW! Now I know why! He is an amazing performer with lots and lots of spunk and excitement in his shows. And despite a bone-crushing injury to his foot during his grand entrance onto the stage, he put on THE best concert I have ever seen!

D1 and I traveled to Columbia on Saturday afternoon for the Big Show and managed to arrive just a tad late, thanks to some heavy traffic. We missed some no-name band and Luke Bryan ("All My Friends Say") but made it just in time to hear Gary Allan (eh, I could take it or leave it), LeAnn Rimes (cute & spirited) and Brooks & Dunn (OUTSTANDING!). But all I really cared about was that we made it for the Big Show! This concert at Williams-Brice Stadium was Kenny's kickoff performance to his summer stadium "Poets & Pirates" tour. And even though he was limping and hopping from point A to point B (and drinking frequently from his Solo cup; I'm sure it was just apple juice!), he did not let his boo-boo stop him from giving his best to the fans. That was such an awesome experience to see him live and I would definitely love to see him the next time he comes this way!! We had a great time!

Get Your Autographs Now, Folks.....This Boy is MLB-Bound

It's official....my baby is all grown up! After 3 rainy Saturdays, d1 FINALLY got to play in his very first t-ball game this weekend and it was so much fun to watch! He takes it very seriously but still has so much fun. When they were in the field first, we had to continue to remind him that the ball was coming and to stop picking weeds out of the dirt. Eventually he found the game more interesting... On his way to the plate for his debut at-bat, he got so excited that he tripped, fell and rolled to the plate. No worries, though....he got right up and kept running. I have to say that some of the little guys (and girls) on our team might have layed there and cried but not my little man. When he was up to bat, Coach (D1) stood behind him at homeplate and reminded him to take his time and d1 told him, "Yeah, yeah, just let me hit it!" And he did....and on his speedy run to first base, he tripped and fell again! Sweet child didn't inherit much from me but he did get the clumsy genes! Again no tears, just intense concentration to get to that base. At one point, a train came rolling by the field and we basically took a "Time-Out" as we had lost both teams' attention. Trains are way more cool than baseball! The rest of the game went well and all the kids were ready for their snack after about 15 minutes of playing.

On a sentimental note, this is one of many events that D1 and I have been looking forward to since the day we found out we were going to be parents. We are both big sports fans and have dreamed of the day that we get to cheer for our children as they enjoyed such great American pasttimes. And no matter who comes along...Mommy will always be his biggest fan! Check out pics of my little homerun hitter!!

Bless His Heart

d1 never ceases to amaze me with the funny things that he says. One in particular I wanted to write about as I NEVER want to forget this.....

Sunday night we sat down to eat dinner. As usual, both boys are starving, screaming and ready to scarf down some grub. I couldn't get it there fast enough which usually means that one is either scratching the WOOD table with their fork or creating a stream with their milk cup...one of these days I'll remember not to give them ANYTHING until it is time to place the food in their mouth. Anyway, D1 gets onto d1 a tad bit and that, naturally, ticks d1 off to no end. It is customary that when we sit down to eat, d1 insists on saying the blessing. It usually goes something like this, "(Thank you) Jesus, for this food, and for all, things, Amen." On occasion, he'll even throw in some blessings for his friends and teachers at school and church as well as his grandparents. Not this time....this time the extra special prayers went for his daddy. After his typical prayer mentioned above, he added, "And for daddy being ugly to me." I think he meant to say, "Please forgive daddy for being ugly" but we got the point. Very hard to hold back the laughter afterwards because he was VERY serious! Daddy may have been "ugly" to d1 but it was mommy that was red with fury with d2 earlier in the afternoon. I went upstairs to get a load of laundry and expect to come back and find d2 where he was when I left him - catching some Wiggles action. Nope! Instead I find him with his diaper off, playing with his poo like it was play-doh....ON MY WHITE CARPET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Awesome! Love it! Sweet little boys....

What a Great Weekend!

Last weekend was fantastic! My BFF, Kristina flew into CLT Thursday morning for a long weekend in the South. Kristina and I have been friends for about 13 years now ~ we went to high school together, were college roommates and were each other's Maid/Matron of Honor in our weddings that were 3 months apart. It's awesome that we've stayed so close all this time, and our children are each 9 months apart so they will always have playmates during our annual (or semi-annual) visits to each other. I miss her everyday but I know that distance will never separate true friendship!

When she arrived, she was immediately fascinated with the beautiful scenery and thought the accents were super cute, especially the one that d1 has so quickly inherited. We had lots of girl time, which we were both desperately in need of. We did some shopping, eating, relaxing, eating....did I mention we ate a lot? Holy canoly, I was trying hard to drop a few pounds before her arrival and I quickly put it all back on within 24 hours of her arrival. We did Salsarita's, Fuddruckers, Cold Stone Creamery, Blue Bay Oyster House, Ryan's.....and it was all so delish!

She had been wanting to come for a visit for awhile but it was a no-brainer as to when she would come when I told her that the local MOPS group was bringing Jon & Kate to town. We are both HUGE fans of the show, and thought it would be a lot of fun to center her visit around this event. A big thanks to my new friend, Kelly for upgrading us to the front row with her - it was awesome! After the show, we did stand in line for awhile to get some autographs and to personally meet the newfound reality stars. They are sweet people and after hearing them speak, we now see that they are very much strong Christians who realize that God has given them an amazing "litter" of children. Even though their lives are crazy and chaotic, they are aware of how blessed they truly are! Such an inspiration to someone like myself who thinks her life is crazy when 2 are crying at the same time. I cannot even IMAGINE 8! Ahhh!

Could This Be An Answer To My Prayers?

In my spare time (okay, at work in my office), I frequent a great website for Mommy's and came across a post a couple of weeks ago that caught my attention. Another mom was voicing her concern for her preschool son's behavior and I thought, "Hmmm, I bet I can relate." So, after some venting about how her son has episodes of aggression and anger and asking for advice, she got many responses from other mothers across the country. Many agreed that they had found a solution to a lot of these behavioral tendencies and it all linked to one thing....Red 40 food dye. According to an article I found, this dye has been linked to temper tantrums, hyperactivity, kicking, nervousness, aggression, etc. Basically, research shows that some kids have a sensitivity to this dye and their bodies cannot process or handle it like others and most adults. This food dye is in many foods such as Cheetos, Doritos, Skittles, chewing gum, Gatorade, suckers.....basically, anything that God did not make red (or pink or whatever), it has Red 40 in it. Now, don't think for a minute that my children's diet consisted of Red Velvet cake and Kool-Aid because they are certainly not given junk food on a regular basis. And it's not to say that he'll never have this stuff in his system again because I can't stand next to him 24/7 (and he can be a sneaky little guy). But apparently, a little goes a long way with this stuff. Even foods you might consider "healthy" often have been altered to make the appearance more appealing (i.e. strawberry applesauce. What I found most interesting about this article is that although the FDA has approved this additive, it has also been proven this dye can kill weeds and be effective as a pesticide. That does NOT sit well with me, as a parent AND as a human being!

In many of my previous posts, I have mentioned d1's behavior and how "mean" he can be at times. It always bothers me because I know he can be such a sweet, compassionate little guy, too. I'm not talking about a couple minutes of fits and ugliness; I'm talking spitting IN MY FACE and calling me names. Names we don't use in our house (thanks, friends at daycare!) and actions that are highly unacceptable! After reading many of the moms talk about the changes that have taken place when they eliminated this dye from their children's diet, D1 and I made the decision to "experiment" on d1 (and d2, although he does not seem to have as aggressive tendencies as d1 just yet) and cut out all Red 40. We went through our pantry and fridge and tossed all that contained this in the ingredients. According to sources, the dye can take up to a week to completely rid itself from the body but after just a few days, we could see a drastic change in d1 and his behavior. He seemed to be able to concentrate longer (his teacher even noticed a change in his level of concentration), he does not have a meltdown over the color of his bowl at breakfast and he does not throw things and call us "Stupid" when he can't wear shorts to bed instead of pants. Many people (usually the older folks) will just say, "Oh, it's just a phase" or "He's just at that age" but I'm not sure I'm buying that anymore. Seriously, the changes are quite obvious and I challenge any and all parents that experience similar situations to give it a try. Even if your child doesn't have these issues, can this stuff REALLY be healthy for their development if it can also be used as Weed-B-Gone? I am not an expert on this and I certainly don't know much about going green, eating organically and voodoo medicine but if I can make a difference in my child's behavior and help him to enjoy life with less timeouts, less Sassy Spray and less wooden spoon paddling, you can bet I will!


ETA on 5/2: Doc put d1 on some antibiotics (Cephalexin) for a possible infection. d1 has been AWFUL AWFUL AWFUL this week and it's quite obvious he cannot control his actions. It finally hit me to search the inactive ingredients for Cephalexin. Yep, first on the list FD&C Red #40. Proof in my eyes that this is no coinky-dink. Bad, bad stuff!

KU WINS! KU WINS! KU WINS! KU WINS!

Ahhhh, it's been a long time coming but on the 20th anniversary of Danny Manning leading the Kansas Jayhawks to a national title, our boys have done it again!!! NCAA National Champions!! And what an AWESOME game it was!!! Both teams played extraordinarily well and the game was evenly matched but in overtime, it was the Hawks who came out ahead. Great job, guys!! Now if we can just keep Rush from going pro for one more season.....and, Oklahoma State, KEEP YOUR HANDS OFF OUR COACH!!!!! ROCK CHALK JAYHAWK ----- GO KUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!

Go Drive!!!!

This Sunday we attended our first Greenville Drive game. The Greenville Drive is a Class A Minor League baseball team for the Boston Red Sox and this is their 3rd year in Greenville. Thanks to my employer, we got 4 FREE tickets behind homeplate for Sunday's game. This was Opening Weekend so the excitement was in the air and the weather was gorgeous (after many days of dreary rain!). d1 wasn't sure of the mascot; he wanted to give him a high-5 but then balked when Reedy came around. He did study very intensely what the players were doing but, as d2 was, they were both MUCH more concerned with what I had in my backpack for snack. Yes, I brought in outside snacks....Cracker Jacks, licorice, all the healthy stuff!!! We did have a good time, although we are realistic in understanding that it's not something we can do YET and expect to actually watch the game. The boys had fun and little by little, we're exposing them to activities that we both believe will be a big part of our family time in years to come.

Our Trip to the Atlanta Zoo

Last week I put my brave face on and me and the little d's drove to the Atlanta zoo. We've been wanting to make a trip down there but we had an extra special reason this time....our good friends, T & S (from MO) were in Atlanta for the week while S's daddy was in training. T and I worked together in the past and had MANY playdates. S and d1 are the same age and have always played so well together. We often talk of their arranged marriage.....S comes from such good parents. Her momma's an accountant and her daddy is an Air Force captain. Can it get any better than that for in-laws????

The day was absolutely perfect and the layout of the zoo was great! Everything is so close in proximity, which is good because d2 would NOT ride in the stroller. I was either carrying him or running him down. He was a little on the naughty side, which is a bit unusual for him. I hope he's not getting SICK.....We did have a little injury timeout, although I think it scared me more than him. I placed him next to a Yogi Bear sign and thought he would stand still.....not so much. Just as soon as I got the camera up to take the picture, he went head first off the ledge. Not to fear, his fall was stopped by the park bench. He didn't seem to mind, barely made a whimper but I was FREAKING out! The lady sitting there told me to relax about 5 times and that it looked much worse than it actually was. Yeah, whateva!

So, back to the love story.....d1 was SOOOOOO well-behaved. I know most of my posts are rants about his horrid behavior and how he doesn't listen and play well with his brother and all the hitting and spitting that occurs. Well, boy did he surprise me!! He held S's hand the entire day and I didn't have to tell him once to stay with us; it was unbelievable.....I know that boys act well when they are trying to impress a girl but I didn't realize it started at age 3!! I need her to come stay with us awhile to keep this boy in check! How precious is this picture?????

When we were leaving to head home, we said our good-byes and promised we would see each other again soon. It didn't seem like a big deal but it was very clear that d1 doesn't understand the distance between us because he asked me if we could come back to see S at the zoo soon! :( It's so strange that kids at this age can care for someone so much (other than Mom & Dad) because you could see just how much they love each other as friends. I'm thinking a fall wedding would be beautiful................